US20240115922A1

US20240115922A1 - Indoor and outdoor golf putting training device and system

Info

Publication number: US20240115922A1
Application number: US17/961,782
Authority: US
Inventors: Matthew J. Scamardella
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2022-10-07
Filing date: 2022-10-07
Publication date: 2024-04-11
Also published as: US20240325849A1; WO2024076492A1

Abstract

An indoor and outdoor golf putting training device kit having a first post for positioning in proximity to a target hole, a second post for positioning at a distance from the target hole, a first string having a first color, a second string having a second color, and an independent swing guide unconnected to the first post, the second post, the first string, and the second string; wherein the first string is attachable to the first post and the second post; the second string is attachable to the first post and the second post; the first color and the second color are different colors; and the independent swing guide having markings to guide a user as to where a putt stroke should begin and where the putt stroke should end depending upon the distance from the target hole.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not Applicable

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

NAMES OF PARTIES TO JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT

Not Applicable

INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC OR AS A TEXT FILE VIA THE OFFICE ELECTRONIC FILING SYSTEM (EFS-WEB)

Not Applicable

STATEMENT REGARDING PRIOR DISCLOSURES BY THE INVENTOR OR A JOINT INVENTOR

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

This invention generally relates to an indoor and outdoor golf putting training device and system of practicing putting.

Description of Related Art

U.S. Pat. No. 9,126,092 discloses a golf swing training aid with a target-line guide, a rail, a clubface guide, and an upright assembly, wherein the target-line guide provides a straight line for aiming at a target, wherein the rail runs parallel to the target-line guide and has a bottom for placing on a golfing surface, wherein the clubface guide is perpendicular to the target-line guide and provides a straight line for a clubface of a golf club to parallel with when the golfer sets up or when the clubface passes over, under or through the clubface guide when a golfer swings the golf club, wherein the upright assembly is attached to the rail and is constrained along a straight line on the rail, where the straight line is parallel to the target-line guide and where the upright assembly provides the clubface guide, and wherein the target-line and clubface guide can be a rod, a string, a series of laser dots, or a laser line.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,083,527 discloses a golf putting aid that includes first and second attachment structures, wherein upper and lower alignment members are each disposed between and attached to the attachment structures, wherein the alignment members are also vertically aligned to define a vertical plane which is perpendicular to a putting surface, wherein the putting aid also includes at least one longitudinal support member disposed between and fixedly attached to the attachment structures, and a target attached to the first attachment structure, such that the target defines an opening that is at least as large as a regulation size golf ball.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,695,710 discloses a training device made of two vertically mounted separate rods connected by two strings, wherein the vertically erected rods have two component structures, namely a base rod subsection and a height adjustable rod subsection, wherein each rod comes with a rotatable hook that can be mounted in slits to hook to the two strings, wherein the rods are equipped with a bubble level on their top to adjust for a perpendicular mounting position, and wherein the ball is placed on the ground immediately under the lower one of two strings which serve as a sightline by which the direction of the swing of the putter is defined and to which the striking face of the putter is perpendicularly maintained.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,458,041 discloses a golf ball putting device used by a golfer to practice a line of sight directly over the top center of a golf ball when putting the ball, whereby practicing with the device, the golfer enhances his or her skill in alignment of sight over the top of the golf ball with improved putting skills, wherein the golf ball putting device includes an upright support having a vertical lower portion, a curved middle portion and a horizontal upper portion, wherein the lower portion can be inserted into a ground surface or inserted into a stand, wherein the upper portion includes a forked end, wherein the forked end includes a first fork arm and a second fork arm with an eye alignment opening therebetween, wherein ends of the first fork arm and the second fork arm are joined together by an elongated upper sight alignment member, wherein the upper sight alignment member, when properly positioned, is parallel to the direction of travel of the golf ball when it is putted, wherein suspended from opposite ends of the upper sight alignment member are a pair of suspension chains, wherein lower ends of the chains are attached to opposite ends of an elongated lower sight alignment member, and wherein when the upper and lower sight alignment members are placed above the top of the golf ball and the golfer's line of sight aligns the upper sight alignment member above the lower sight alignment member, then the golfer knows his or her line of sight is directly above the golf ball.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a golf putting training device kit comprising a first post for positioning in proximity to a target hole, a second post for positioning at a distance from the target hole, a first string having a first color, a second string having a second color, and an independent swing guide unconnected to the first post, the second post, the first string, and the second string; wherein the first string is attachable to the first post and the second post; the second string is attachable to the first post and the second post; the first color and the second color are different colors; the independent swing guide having markings to guide a user as to where a putt stroke should begin and where the putt stroke should end depending upon the distance from the target hole; and the independent swing guide comprises sections having markings to guide a user as to where a putt stroke should begin and where a putt stroke should end depending upon the distance from the target hole and having a curvature to guide the user depending upon the distance from the target hole.
The present invention further relates to a golf putting training kit having independent swing guide markings that are color coded depending upon the distance from the target hole.
The present invention further relates to a golf putting training system, the system comprising a target hole marker for placing in or near the target hole; a golf ball marker on or in a golf ball; a swing guide having a proximal swing guide marker in or on the swing guide, a distal swing guide marker in or on the swing guide, and a swing guide ball alignment marker in or on the swing guide; a camera capable of detecting the target hole marker, the golf ball marker, and at least two of the markers selected from the group of the proximal swing guide marker, the swing guide ball alignment marker, and the distal swing guide marker and measuring the distance between the target hole marker and the golf ball marker; a server configured to process data received from the camera and transmit instructions to the user or to the swing guide; wherein the server is configured to calculate a virtual first line between a first set of markers selected from the group of the target hole marker and the golf ball marker, calculate a virtual second line between a second set of markers selected from the group of at least two of the proximal swing guide marker, the ball alignment marker, and the distal swing guide marker, determine whether the virtual first line and virtual second line are parallel, transmit instructions to the swing guide to indicate the direction to move the swing guide until the virtual first line and virtual second line are parallel, calculate the distance between the target hole marker and the golf ball marker, and transmit instructions to the swing guide to illuminate the appropriate swing starting marker and ending marker range on the swing guide.
The present invention further relates to a golf putting training system having golfer markers including one or more hat markers, shirt markers, pants markers, glove markers, shoe markers, and golf club markers; wherein the camera is capable of detecting the golfer markers and measuring the distance and movements of the golfer markers; and the server is configured to process data received from the camera and transmit instructions to the user or to the swing guide relating to the golfer markers.
The present invention further relates to a golf putting training system wherein the server is configured to determine the relative position of the hat marker above the golf ball marker and transmit instructions to the user or the swing guide to position the hat marker above the golf ball marker.
The present invention further relates to a golf putting swing guide for placement parallel to a line of sight between a ball and a target hole, comprising an upper surface having a ball alignment marker, a starting marker distal to the target hole, and an ending marker proximal to the target hole, and a side surface, such that the side surface is planar or arched.
The present invention further relates to a golf putting training system, the system comprising an input source, a processing server, and an output source, wherein the input source is configured to receive images and data and communicate such images and such data to the processing server; the processing server is configured to receiving images and data from the input source and process the images and data using pre-determined parameters to determine whether the images and data fall within or outside the pre-determined parameters; the processing server is configured to communicate images and data to the output source, including whether the images and data fall within or outside the pre-determined parameters; the output source communicates instructions to a user to adjust one or more of the parameters; and the processing server processes subsequent images and subsequent data received from the input source and compares the subsequent images and subsequent data with previous images and previous data, and then communicates updated instructions to the user until all subsequent images and subsequent data fall within the pre-determined parameters.
The present invention further relates to a golf putting training system wherein the processing server resides in a device selected from the group consisting of one or more of the input source, a cloud computer, personal computer, display monitor, and output source; wherein the input source is selected from the group consisting of a mobile drone, an autonomous drone station, a motion capture camera, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a desktop computer, a portable phone, and an electronic watch; wherein the output source is selected from the group consisting of a mobile drone, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a desktop computer, a portable phone, earbuds, and an electronic watch; and wherein the processing server is wirelessly connected to the input source and wirelessly connected to the output source.
The present invention further relates to a golf putting training mat comprising a surface comprising a swing guide having markings to guide a user as to where a putt stroke should begin and where the putt stroke should end depending upon the distance from the target hole.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the present invention, reference is made to the following examples and drawings. Referring to the appended drawings:

FIG. 1 is a side view of a kit according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention that is assembled in relation to a target hole;

FIG. 2 is a top view of the kit shown in FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 3 is a top view of an independent swing guide according to an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention having a ball alignment marker and numbered starting and ending markers depending upon the distance to the target hole;

FIG. 4 is a top view of an independent swing guide according to an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention having a ball alignment marker and starting and ending markers with colored zones depending upon the distance to the target hole;

FIG. 5 is a top view of an independent swing guide according to an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention having a ball alignment marker and starting and ending markers with colored arches depending upon the distance to the target hole;

FIG. 6 is a side view of an independent swing guide according to an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention having a ball alignment marker and starting and ending markers with colored bars depending upon the distance to the target hole; and

FIG. 7 is a top view of an independent swing guide according to an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention having a ball alignment marker and directional indicators to instruct a user to adjust the position of the swing guide so that the swing guide is parallel to the line of sight between ball and the target hole and directional indicators to instruct a user to adjust the position of the swing guide distal or proximal to the target hole so that the ball is in a position perpendicular to the ball alignment marker of the swing guide.

FIGS. 8A-8D are side views of independent swing guides according to an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention in four sections individually designed depending upon the distance between the target hole and the ball alignment marker of each section particular to the individual distance.

FIGS. 9A-9D are top views of the independent swing guides illustrated in FIGS. 8A-8D according to an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention in four sections individually designed having a curvature depending upon the distance between the target hole and the ball alignment marker the degree of curvature of each section particular to the individual distance.

Other features and aspects of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following detailed description of some example embodiments, the appended claims, and the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The inventor of the present invention(s) disclosed herein has recognized that there is a need for an improved device and system for training golfers to putt. Although many have developed many different products and methods for training golfers, none offer the improved results as described herein.
Golf is a complex sport that requires tremendous control and skill that is developed over a period of time. Many golfers focus their efforts on driving the ball and neglect practicing their technique putting.
There are many different and divergent schools of thought as to how to practice to improve accuracy in putting. And, there are many devices developed to better train golfers on how to putt. Yet, until the development of the techniques, devices, and systems disclosed herein, there has been a long felt need for a golf putting training device and system that demonstrates a dramatic improvement in putting accuracy.
Unlike other known training devices, the independent swing guide markings vary depending upon the distance of a ball to a target hole, including but not limited to pre-set ranges of where to start a swing and where to end the swing relative to the position of the ball.
Throughout this disclosure, embodiments represent preferred embodiments of the present invention. Reference to an “alternative” embodiment or a numbered embodiment (such as “second” embodiment, etc.) shall mean that the particular disclosed embodiment is a non-limiting alternative of any of the other embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein except where expressly indicated to the contrary.
When practicing putting, the goal is to reduce the number of strokes it takes to hit the ball into the target hole. To achieve this goal, golfers develop routines concerning how to grip the golf club, how to stand while holding the golf club, how to position the golfer's body relative to the golf ball, and how to align the golfer's body in such a manner to regularly and successfully swing the golf club striking the ball and hitting the ball securely into the target hole.
There are many tips that golf instructors will offer to improve a golfer's performance while practicing. However, it has been discovered that there is a particular combination of actions that maximize the results when using the devices and systems disclosed herein.
Regarding a golfer's grip on the golf club, for example, the handle of the golf club should run up the lifelines of the palms of the golfer and not just across the first joints of the fingers. The shaft of the golf club should run parallel to the golfer's forearms. The golfer should grip the handle of the club with light pressure, preferable a pressure level of 3 on a scale of 1 to 10. The golfer's thumbs should be parallel on the top of the shaft. And, preferably, a reverse overlap grip is recommended with the index finger of the golfer's left hand extending over the top of the fingers of the golfer's right hand.
When putting a golfer should keep a narrow stance, with feet roughly shoulder width apart and with a tilt of the golfer's torso from the hips without slouching. Preferably, the golfer should have a balanced weight above and below the hips and keep the legs and feet stationary.
When setting up to practice putting, a golfer should keep the golfer's shoulders, hips, and knees parallel with the line of sight between the ball and the target hole and should keep the golfer's feet roughly perpendicular to the line of sight. Although the golfer's feet can be a little open, the golfer's forearms must be square. The golf club putter face should be centered with the putter face in the line of sight between the ball and the target hole with the putter face roughly perpendicular to the ground and perpendicular to the line of sight. Keeping the shoulders and elbows relaxed and rested against the golfer's sides, and with the shaft leaning slightly toward the target, the golfer is in position to initiate a stroke.
In connection with the new training devices and systems, the golfer should keep their head directly above the ball before initiating the stroke, during the stroke, and while ending the stroke. The golfer can use a visual marker under the ball, like a spot, to visually remind the golfer to continuously keep their head directly above the location where the ball was located during and after the putt.
Before taking the stroke, the golfer can practice their stance and motion using a rhythmic tick-tock as a pre-stroke routine. Practice drills can be done with eyes closed, with eyes looking at the target hole, and with eyes looking at the ball. Practice drills on a level putt can be done with a metronome, preferable a metronome app, with a rhythmic tick-tock of about 50 to about 85 beeps per minute (BPM), preferably 80 BPM, for a normal pace and about 30 to about 50 BPM for fast greens.
When striking the ball with the golf club putter face, it is important for the golfer to stroke “through the ball” as opposed to hitting the ball or otherwise abruptly stopping the forward momentum of the golf club after contacting the ball such that the golfer keeps contact with the ball as long as possible during the forward stroke.
The swing guide disclosed and claimed herein can be used in outdoor and indoor environments.
The independent swing guide can have many designs, including a variety of shapes, but is preferably generally rectangular.
The surface of the swing guide in closest proximity to the ball may be planar or may be arched.
The independent swing guide does not provide a line of sight for aiming at the target, but instead is positioned parallel to the line of sight between the ball and the target hole. The independent swing guide provides information to the golfer about the length of the putting stroke before and after contact with the ball. This information varies depending upon the distance between the ball and the target hole.
In a first alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, an independent swing guide is placed in a position parallel to the line of sight of a ball to a target hole.
The line of sight may be determined by a first post for positioning in proximity to a target hole, a second post for positioning at a distance from the target hole, a first string having a first color, and a second string having a second color, such that the first string is attachable to the first post and the second post, such that the second string is attachable to the first post and the second post, and such that the golf ball can be placed underneath the first and second strings. Further, a visual marker, such as a spot, can be placed underneath the first and second strings to identify the location for placement of the golf ball.
Although it is preferable for the first and second strings have different colors, the strings could have the same color so long as it is observable to the golfer that both strings are in line with each other with the ball or visual marker underneath both strings.
When the golfer practices putting, the different colored strings act as a guide for positioning the golfer's head over the ball and the swing guide provides the range of swing depending upon the distance from the target hole. To assist the golfer in practicing putting, the ball can have a line drawn around the circumference of the ball, or at least drawn halfway around the circumference of the ball, so that when the golfer is setting the ball under the first and second string, the golfer can position the ball such that the line drawn on the ball is in line with the first and second string. When the golfer putts the ball, the line on the ball should remain straight as the ball rolls toward the target hole. The line on the ball should not wobble as the ball rolls toward the target hole if the putt was taken correctly.
When the first and second posts are positioned, it is preferable for the first post to be vertically positioned in a first location with about 30 cm to about 60 cm (about 1 foot to about 2 feet) from the target hole and it is preferable for the second post to be vertically positioned in a second location within about 60 cm to about 600 cm (about 2 feet to about 20 feet) from the target hole such that the second location is diametrically opposed to the first location of the first post relative to the target hole creating a line of sight from the golf ball to the target hole.
In an outdoor environment, the first post and the second post can be inserted directly into the ground or inserted into a preset holes made for such posts. Alternatively, the posts can be inserted into a support base for holding the respective post. In an indoor environment, the first post and the second post can be inserted into support bases. Alternatively, the posts can be made integral with the flooring or can be made integral with floor mats designed for practicing putting.
A significant challenge for the golfer when standing ready to putt is whether the position of the golfer's head is directly over the ball. A benefit of this new technique is that the first string and the second string assist the golfer in properly positioning the golfer's head directly over the ball. When the golfer looks in the direction of the ball, the golfer's head is properly positioned directly over the ball when the second string blocks the golfer's view of the first string and the line is centered over the ball. If the ball is not directly underneath both the first string and the second string, then the ball position should be adjusted so that it resides directly under the first string and the second string. If the golfer ready to putt sees two separate strings, then the golfer needs to adjust the position of the golfer's head directly above the ball.
Using this technique and independent swing guide of the present invention, the golfer can practice putting a ball at any distance between the target hole and the second post without moving the first post or the second post or the first and second strings.
In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the independent swing guide comprises more than one independent swing guide sections designed individually to have markings to guide a user as to where a putt stroke should begin and where the putt stroke should end depending upon a particular distance from the target hole. For example, a first independent swing guide section is designed individually for 10 foot putt, a second independent swing guide section is designed individually for a 6 foot putt, a third independent swing guide section is designed individually for a 4 foot putt, and a fourth independent swing guide section is designed individually for a 2 foot putt. By way of example and not by way of limitation, each of these four independent swing guide sections is sized and shaped specific to the distance between the target hole and the ball alignment marker.
One or more of these independent swing guide sections can be placed at the individually specified distance between the target hole and the ball alignment marker, which would allow a user to practice at different distances without moving a single independent swing guide section between practicing at different distances. The individual sections can be rectangular or curved in shape, and can each have the same or different shape depending upon the distance to the target hole from the ball alignment marker on the independent swing guide section.
In alternative non-limiting embodiments of the present invention, a golfer can use a golf putting training device kit comprising a first post for positioning in proximity to a target hole, a second post for positioning at a distance from the target hole, a first string having a first color, a second string having a second color, and an independent swing guide unconnected to the first post, the second post, the first string, and the second string; wherein the first string is attachable to the first post and the second post; the second string is attachable to the first post and the second post; the first color and the second color are different colors; and the independent swing guide having markings to guide a user as to where a putt stroke should begin and where the putt stroke should end depending upon the distance from the target hole.
The independent swing guide should be placed by the golfer in a position in proximity to the ball and parallel to the line of sight between the ball and the target hole. The independent swing guide having a marking to indicate the end of the independent swing guide that should be positioned proximal to the target hole and have a ball alignment marking on the independent swing guide to be in line with the ball and perpendicular to the line of sight between the ball and the target hole.
After placing the ball underneath both the first and second strings, the golfer can then place the independent swing guide in proximity to the ball such that (i) the end of the independent swing guide marked proximal to the target hole is in a position proximal to the target hole, (ii) the independent swing guide is parallel to the line of sight, and (iii) the ball alignment marker is in line with the ball perpendicular to the line of sight.
Under this alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the golfer can practice repeatedly using the pre-positioned first and second posts with the first and second strings. And, can either continue to practice from the same location, i.e., wherein the ball is placed perpendicular to the line of sight and in line with the ball alignment mark on the independent swing guide. Or, the golfer can vary the distance between the ball and the target hole, by repositioning only the independent swing guide so that the ball alignment mark is perpendicular with the ball at any distance of choice of the golfer.
The independent swing guide also has on either the top surface, the side surface, or on both the top and side surfaces of the independent swing guide markings to indicate the distance the putter should travel before hitting the ball and the distance the putter should travel after hitting the ball depending upon the distance between the ball and the target hole.
These swing guide markings illustrate the length of the golfer's stroke before and after contacting the ball. On either side of the ball alignment mark on the independent swing guide, the starting position and the ending position are marked with lines, ridges, groves, pins, or other visual cues for the golfer to observe and follow while practicing putting.
For example, the top surface of the independent swing guide can be marked with a golf ball to indicate the ball alignment mark position on the independent swing guide, and marked with numbered lines on either side of the ball alignment mark such that the numbers represent the distance between the ball and the target hole and such that the numbered lines on either side of the ball alignment mark are positioned on the independent swing guide at the start and end positions of where the golfer should start and end the stroke to hit the ball to the target hole at the numbered distance from the ball alignment marker.
For example, if a ball is positioned at about 150 cm (about 5 feet) from the target hole, then the independent swing guide will be placed on the ground perpendicular to the line of sight between the ball and the target hole such that the ball is in line with the ball alignment marker and such that on the independent swing guide there is (i) a starting mark on the independent swing guide distal to the target hole to demarcate the starting position of the putter and labeled with the distance number, in this example 150 cm (5 feet), and (ii) an ending mark on the independent swing guide proximal to the target hole to demarcate the ending position of the putter and labeled with the same distance number.
In alternative non-limiting embodiments, the starting mark and the ending mark for each distance number can bear the same color such that the starting mark and the ending mark for a 5 foot putt can be colored red while the starting mark and ending mark for a 10 foot putt can be colored blue. For purposes of clarity, the distance number of the starting mark and the ending mark is the distance between the ball and the target hole and not the distance between the starting mark and the ball alignment mark or the ending mark and the ball alignment mark.
Knowing the distance of the ball from the target hole, the golfer is able to adjust the length of the golfer's stroke before and after contacting the ball using the independent swing guide.
The swing guide can contain numbers, colors, ridges and/or grooves to indicate the length of swing depending upon the distance of the ball and the target hole.
The golf putting swing guide for placing parallel to the line of sight between a ball and a target hole, comprises an upper surface having a ball alignment marker, a starting marker distal to the target hole, and an ending marker proximal to the target hole, and a side surface, wherein the side surface can be planar or arched.
In another alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, for example, if the ball is set on the ground about 300 cm (about 10 feet) from the target hole, then the swing guide ball alignment mark will be about 300 cm (about 10 feet) from the target hole and will illustrate the length of stroke about 13 cm (about 5 inches) from the ball alignment marker toward the distal end of the swing guide for the back stroke and about 18 cm (about 7 inches) from the ball alignment marker toward the proximal end of the swing guide relative to the position of the target hole.
The independent swing guide can have pre-set markers on either side of the ball alignment marker for starting and ending a swing for a variety of predetermined distances between the ball and the target hole. The start and end swing markers can be labeled with numbers corresponding to the distance between the ball and the target hole, and/or with colors so that the golfer can visualize the length of the stroke from the starting mark to the ball alignment marker and from the ball alignment marker to the ending mark.
In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the swing guide system disclosed herein can be used with motion caption markers and a camera.
In a second alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the independent swing guide of the first alternative non-limiting embodiment is electronic and illuminates with lights on the top surface, side surface, or top and side surfaces of the independent swing guide in order to display the starting markers and the ending markers depending upon the distance between the ball and the target hole.
In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the golf putting training system comprises a target hole marker for placing in or near the target hole; a golf ball marker on or in a golf ball; a swing guide having a proximal swing guide marker in or on the swing guide, a distal swing guide marker in or on the swing guide, and a swing guide ball alignment marker in or on the swing guide; a camera capable of detecting the target hole marker, the golf ball marker, and at least two of the markers selected from the group of the proximal swing guide marker, the swing guide ball alignment marker, and the distal swing guide marker and measuring the distance between the target hole marker and the golf ball marker; a server configured to process data received from the camera and transmit instructions to the user or to the swing guide; wherein the server is configured to calculate a virtual first line between a first set of markers selected from the group of the target hole marker and the golf ball marker, calculate a virtual second line between a second set of markers selected from the group of at least two of the proximal swing guide marker, the ball alignment marker, and the distal swing guide marker, determine whether the virtual first line and virtual second line are parallel, transmit instructions to the swing guide to indicate the direction to move the swing guide until the virtual first line and virtual second line are parallel, calculate the distance between the target hole marker and the golf ball marker, and transmit instructions to the swing guide to illuminate the appropriate swing starting marker and ending marker range on the swing guide.
In another alternative non-limiting embodiment, the golf putting training system further comprises golfer markers including one or more hat markers, shirt markers, pants markers, glove markers, shoe markers, and golf club markers; wherein the camera is capable of detecting the golfer markers and measuring the distance and movements of the golfer markers; and the server is configured to process data received from the camera and transmit instructions to the user or to the swing guide relating to the golfer markers, and alternatively, wherein the server is configured to determine the relative position of the hat marker above the golf ball marker and transmit instructions to the user or the swing guide to position the hat marker above the golf ball marker.
In a third alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, images and data are collected by an input source, including but not limited to a mobile drone, and transmitted to a processing server that could be located within the input source, the independent swing guide, a cloud computer, cell phone, laptop, or other computing device, such that the processing server is configured to receive images and data collected by the input source and process the images and data using pre-determined parameters to determine whether the images and data fall without or outside the pre-determined parameters, and configured to communicate corrective information to an output source, including but not limited to the independent swing guide, cell phone, laptop, display, or other electronic device.
Information gathered by a mobile drone may contain images and data for simultaneous processing of information relating to one or more golfers and simultaneous communication with one or more golfers, instructors, or saved for later study, of information to one or more output sources.
In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the golf putting training system comprises an input source, a processing server, and an output source, wherein the input source is configured to receive images and data and communicate such images and such data to the processing server; the processing server is configured to receiving images and data from the input source and process the images and data using pre-determined parameters to determine whether the images and data fall within or outside the pre-determined parameters; the processing server is configured to communicate images and data to the output source, including whether the images and data fall within or outside the pre-determined parameters; the output source communicates instructions to a user to adjust one or more of the parameters; and the processing server processes subsequent images and subsequent data received from the input source and compares the subsequent images and subsequent data with previous images and previous data, and then communicates updated instructions to the user until all subsequent images and subsequent data fall within the pre-determined parameters.
In alternative non-limiting embodiments of the present invention, the processing server of the golf putting training system resides in a device selected from the group consisting of one or more of the input source, a cloud computer, personal computer, display monitor, and output source; the input source is selected from the group consisting of a mobile drone, an autonomous drone station, a motion capture camera, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a desktop computer, a portable phone, and an electronic watch; the output source is selected from the group consisting of a mobile drone, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a desktop computer, a portable phone, earbuds, and an electronic watch; and the processing server is wirelessly connected to the input source and wirelessly connected to the output source.
In these alternative non-limiting embodiments of the present invention, there are a number of parameters that would be processed by the processing server. For example, there are independent swing guide positioning parameters to check and determine whether the independent swing guide is parallel to the line of sight of the ball to the target hole and whether the independent swing guide is positioned so that the ball marker is perpendicular to the ball alignment marker on the independent swing guide.
In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the input source detects the target hole marker, the ball marker, and the independent swing guide markers, processes the input data to determine whether the independent swing guide marker is positioned parallel to the line of sight between the ball and the target hole and processes the input data to determine whether the ball marker is perpendicular to the ball alignment marker on the swing guide. If the independent swing guide marker is not parallel to the line of sight, the processing server communicates to the independent swing guide to illuminate a light, for example, and light illuminating an arrow, indicating the direction to move the end of the independent swing guide proximal to the target hole. Once the correct position is achieved the light would turn off. Similarly, if the ball is not perpendicular to the ball alignment marker, then the processing server would communicate to the independent swing guide to illuminate a light, for example, a light illuminating arrow, indicating the direction to move the independent swing guide either proximal or distal to the target hole until the ball is perpendicular to the ball alignment marker.
Other parameters include checking and determining whether the golfer's head is over the ball by receiving and processing images and data regarding the positioning of the ball marker and a hat marker. Information received by the processing server from clothing markers and golf club markers can be checked and determined to be within or outside stroke parameters and degree of rotation parameters.
In alternative non-limiting embodiments, the mobile drone can be replaced by a fixed drone or camera.
Motion capture cameras exist. Motion capture software exists to process images and data collected by motion capture cameras to measure distances and to create three dimensional models of landscapes and people. Motion capture technology allows a blending of real life and animation, which can be observed in real-time or downloaded for study at a later time, and which can be watched in real-life video and animation by mapping a virtual skeleton of the motion captured golfer.
Motion caption markers can be inserted into a target hole. Motion caption markers can be place on or inserted into a golf ball, golf club, golf club putter face, and independent swing guide. Motion caption markers can also be applied or attached to a golfer's clothing, shoes, pants, belt, shirt, jacket, gloves, and hat so that data can be collected and processed to assist the golfer practice putting.
Drones are capable of gathering, processing, and transmitting information, including images and data, in real-time. Drones can be equipped with different types of sensors and cameras, including but not limited to high resolution cameras, video cameras, laser scanners, thermal cameras, radio frequency devices and electromagnetic energy sensors. In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, a drone can be mobile or fixed in a particular location.
In another non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the input source images and data are collected simultaneously for multiple users practicing putting at one or multiple target holes. For example, one or more input devices, such as motion capture cameras, are mounted in one or more positions over an area having one or more target holes acquiring and transmitting data to the processing server of images and data from more than one user practicing putting at the same or different target holes. Each user's electronic markers are uniquely coded specifically for the particular user so that images and data relating to a first user is kept distinct from the images and data relating to a second user. The uniquely coded electronic markers would include hat markers, shirt markers, pants markers, glove markers, shoe markers, golf club markers, target hole markers, and independent swing guide markers. The processing server is configured to process each user separately and communicate instructions to each output source separately.
In addition, the processing server, in another alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, is configured to process each user separately and communicate instructions to a single output source, such as a teleprompter, transmitting information relating to each golfer to a single teleprompter.
In yet another alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the processing server is configured to process each user separately and to further process comparison images and data between users with such comparison information communicated to specific users or to a single output source.
In a fifth alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the clothing worn by a golfer may contain components that would help practice putting either separate from or together with the independent swing guides and systems disclosed herein.
In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the swing guide system disclosed herein can be combined with Velcro strips attached to a golfer's shirt sleeves (in proximity to the shirt torso) and shirt torso (in proximity to the shirt sleeves) so that when the golfer holds the golf club the Velcro strips on the shirt sleeves and the Velcro strips on the shirt torso contact one another and remind the golfer to keep their arms snug against their torso while putting.
Optionally, the shirt sleeves and shirt torso in proximity to the Velcro strips can have a flap of material to cover the Velcro allowing the golfer to expose the Velcro strips only while practicing putting.
Velcro strips can also be applied to other articles of clothing such as on a belt for contact with the mating Velcro strips on the golfer's shirt sleeves, and such as on a jacket worn over the golfer's clothes to provide the same benefits thereof.
In a sixth alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, a golf training mat comprises a surface comprising a swing guide having markings to guide a user as to where a putt stroke should begin and where the putt stroke should end depending upon the distance from the target hole. The mat can be made of artificial grass for putting greens. One or more independent swing guides sections having markings, in accordance with the present invention, to guide a user at various distances from the target hole are painted onto the surface of the mat. Such marking can include color coding the portions of the independent swing guide section distal to the target hole with a first color and the section proximal to the target hole with a second color.
In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the top surface of an independent swing guide is marked having (1) a ball alignment marker, (2) a 2 foot (60 cm) starting marker, a 4 foot (120 cm) starting marker, a 6 foot (180 cm) starting marker, and a 10 foot (300 cm) starting marker on the portion of the independent swing guide distal to the target hole, such that the 2 foot starting marker is about 1 inch (about 2.5 cm) from the ball alignment marker, the 4 foot starting marker is about 2 inches (about 5 cm) from the ball alignment marker, the 6 foot starting marker is about 3 inches (about 7.5 cm) from the ball alignment marker, and the 10 foot starting marker is about 5 inches (about 13 cm) from the ball alignment marker, and (3) a 2 foot ending marker, a 4 foot ending marker, a 6 foot ending marker, and a 10 foot ending marker on the portion of the independent swing guide proximal to the target hole, such that the 2 foot ending marker is about 2 inches (about 5 cm) from the ball alignment marker, the 4 foot ending marker is about 4 inches (about 10 cm) from the ball alignment marker, the 6 foot ending marker is about 5 inches (about 13 cm) from the ball alignment marker, and the 10 foot ending marker is about 7 inches (about 18 cm) from the ball alignment marker.
Referring to the figures, FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a side view and a top view, respectively, of a kit according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention that is assembled in relation to a target hole. The golf putting training kit 10 is made up of a first post 11 for positioning in proximity to a target hole 17, a second post 12 for positioning at a distance from the target hole 17, a first string 13 having a first color, a second string 14 having a second color, and an independent swing guide 16 unconnected to the first post 11, the second post 12, the first string 13, the second string 14, wherein the first string and the second string are illustrated as attached to both the first post and the second post, and wherein the first string and the second string preferably are different colors. Also illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 is the ball alignment marker 18 on the side and top surface of the independent swing guide 16 and golf ball 15 in line with the ball alignment marker 18.
FIGS. 3 to 5 illustrate alternative non-limiting embodiments of the present invention, showing top views of alternative non-limiting embodiments of the top surface of the independent swing guide each having a ball alignment marker, each having numbered markers depending on the distance of the ball from the target hole. FIG. 3 illustrates numbered starting markers based upon the distance to the target hole, specifically, starting markers for putting about 2 feet (about 60 cm) 19, about 4 feet (about 120 cm) 20, about 6 feet (about 180 cm) 21, and about 10 feet (about 300 cm) 22 from the target hole, and ending markers for putting about 2 feet 23, about 4 feet 24, about 6 feet 25, and about 10 feet 26 from the target hole 17. For example, a golfer practicing a putt to a target hole about 4 feet from the ball would start the putt at starting marker 20, contact the ball 15 at the ball alignment marker 18, and end the putt at ending marker 24.
FIG. 4 illustrates numbered starting markers based on the distance to the target hole and color zones based on the distance to the target hole, specifically for putting about 2 feet color zone 27, for putting about 4 feet color zone 28, for putting about 6 feet color zone 29, and for putting about 10 feet color zone 30. The colors (not represented in the figure) of each zone on either side of the ball alignment marker would be distinct and would assist the golfer in using the swing guide to adjust the stroke depending on the distance to the target hole. By way of example, color zone 27 is red, color zone 28 is yellow, color zone 29 is green, and color zone 30 is blue. A golfer practicing a putt to a target hole about 6 feet from the ball, in this example, would start the putt at starting marker 6 21 which is corresponds to green and would end the putt at ending marker 25 which also corresponds to green. In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the color zone on either side of the ball alignment marker 18 are different colors such as dark red and light red.
FIG. 5 illustrates numbered starting markers based on the distance to the target hole and color arches based on the distance to the target hole, specifically for putting about 2 feet color arch 31, for putting about 4 feet color arch 32, for putting about 6 feet color arch 33, and for putting about 10 feet color arch 34. The colors (not represented in the figure) of each arch would be distinct and would assist the golfer in using the swing guide to adjust the stroke depending on the distance to the target hole. By way of example, color zone 31 is red, color zone 32 is yellow, color zone 33 is green, and color zone 34 is blue. A golfer practicing a putt to a target hole about 6 feet from the ball, in this example, would start the putt at starting marker 21 which is corresponds to the start of the green arch and would end the putt at ending marker 25 which also corresponds to the end of the green arch. In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the color zone on either side of the ball alignment marker 18 are different colors such as dark green and light green. Further, the degree of curvature of each arch is a guide to the golfer to similarly arch the golfer's stroke specifically based on the distance to the target hole.
FIG. 6 illustrates an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, showing a side view of an independent swing guide having numbered markers and color bars depending on the distance of the ball from the target hole. The colors (not represented in the figure) of each zone would be distinct and would assist the golfer in using the swing guide to adjust the stroke depending on the distance to the target hole. By way of example, color bar 35 is red, color bar 36 is yellow, color bar 37 is green, and color bar 38 is blue. A golfer practicing a putt to a target hole about 10 feet from the ball, in this example, would start the putt at starting marker 22 which corresponds to the start of the blue color bar 38 and would end the put at ending marker 26 which corresponds to the end of the blue color bar 38. In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the color zone on either side of the ball alignment marker 18 are different colors such as dark blue and light blue.
FIG. 7 . illustrates top view of an independent swing guide according to an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, showing a top view of the independent swing guide with a ball alignment marker and directional indicators to instruct a user to adjust the position of the swing guide so that the swing guide is parallel to the line of sight between ball and the target hole and directional indicators to instruct a user to adjust the position of the swing guide distal or proximal to the target hole so that the ball is in a position perpendicular to the ball alignment marker of the swing guide. For example, if a golfer places the independent swing guide in proximity to the ball but the independent swing guide is not parallel to the line of sight of the ball to the target hole, then the process server will transmit instructions to the directional indicators 39 to flash in the direction that end of the independent swing guide must be moved to fall within the pre-determined parameter of being parallel to the line of sight of the ball to the target hole and will stop flashing when the position is corrected. Further, if a golfer places the independent swing guide in proximity to the ball but the ball alignment marker on the independent swing guide is not perpendicular to the ball, then the process server will transmit instructions to the directional indicators 40 to flash in the direction that end of the independent swing guide must be moved to fall within the pre-determined parameter of the ball being perpendicular to the ball alignment marker and will stop flashing when the position is corrected.
FIGS. 8A to 8D illustrate an alternative embodiment of the present invention, showing side views of the independent swing guide in sections such that each section is individually designed in size and shape depending upon the distance between the target hole and the ball alignment marker.
In FIG. 8A, the size and shape of the independent swing guide section 16 is specific to a 10 foot (about 300 cm) distance between the target hole and the ball alignment marker 18. The end of the independent swing guide section distal to the target hole is the starting position, which portion of the section can be color coded with a first color, and the end of the independent swing guide section proximal to the target hole is the ending position of the stroke, which portion of the section can be color coded with a second color. In FIG. 8B, the size and shape of the independent swing guide section 16 is specific to a 6 foot (about 180 cm) distance between the target hole and the ball alignment marker 18. In FIG. 8C, the size and shape of the independent swing guide section 16 is specific to a 4 foot (about 120 cm) distance between the target hole and the ball alignment marker 18. In FIG. 8D, the size and shape of the independent swing guide section 16 is specific to a 2 foot (about 60 cm) distance between the target hole and the ball alignment marker 18. This alternative embodiment of the present invention is not limited to any particular number of sections more than two so that a user can position each section at varying distances without having to move the sections. In terms of shape, the sections may be the same shapes or different shapes, such as rectangular or curved, differently depending upon the distance to the target hole from the ball alignment marker for a particular individual distance.
FIGS. 9A-9D illustrate non-limiting alternative shapes of the present invention showing top views of the independent swing guide in four sections 16 each having a different length and curvature depending upon the distance between the target hole and the ball alignment marker 18 specific to the distance.
The invention is not restricted to the embodiments described, but, on the contrary, covers any modification on form and any alternative form of embodiment that falls within the scope and spirit of the present invention. While there have been described what are believed to be preferred embodiments in the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, as defined by the following

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A golf putting training device kit comprising

(i) a first post for positioning in proximity to a target hole,

(ii) a second post for positioning at a distance from the target hole,

(iii) a first string having a first color,

(iv) a second string having a second color, and

(v) an independent swing guide unconnected to the first post, the second post, the first string, and the second string; wherein

(a) the first string is attachable to the first post and the second post;

(b) the second string is attachable to the first post and the second post;

(c) the first color and the second color are different colors; and

(d) the independent swing guide having markings to guide a user as to where a putt stroke should begin and where the putt stroke should end depending upon the distance from the target hole.

2. The golf putting training kit according to claim 1, wherein the independent swing guide markings are color coded depending upon the distance from the target hole.

3. The golf putting training kit according to claim 1, wherein the independent swing guide comprises sections having markings to guide a user as to where a putt stroke should begin and where a putt stroke should end depending upon the distance from the target hole and having a curvature to guide the user depending upon the distance from the target hole.

4. A golf putting training system, the system comprising

(i) a target hole marker for placing in or near the target hole;

(ii) a golf ball marker on or in a golf ball;

(iii) a swing guide having (a) a proximal swing guide marker in or on the swing guide, (b) a distal swing guide marker in or on the swing guide, and (c) a swing guide ball alignment marker in or on the swing guide;

(iv) a camera capable of (a) detecting the target hole marker, the golf ball marker, and at least two of the markers selected from the group of the proximal swing guide marker, the swing guide ball alignment marker, and the distal swing guide marker and (b) measuring the distance between the target hole marker and the golf ball marker;

(v) a server configured to process data received from the camera and transmit instructions to the user or to the swing guide;

wherein the server is configured to

(a) calculate a virtual first line between a first set of markers selected from the group of the target hole marker and the golf ball marker,

(b) calculate a virtual second line between a second set of markers selected from the group of at least two of the proximal swing guide marker, the ball alignment marker, and the distal swing guide marker,

(c) determine whether the virtual first line and virtual second line are parallel,

(d) transmit instructions to the swing guide to indicate the direction to move the swing guide until the virtual first line and virtual second line are parallel,

(e) calculate the distance between the target hole marker and the golf ball marker, and

(f) transmit instructions to the swing guide to illuminate the appropriate swing starting marker and ending marker range on the swing guide.

5. The golf putting training system according to claim 4, the system further comprising golfer markers including one or more (i) hat markers, (ii) shirt markers, (iii) pants markers, (iv) glove markers, (v) shoe markers, and (vi) golf club markers; wherein

(a) the camera is capable of detecting the golfer markers and measuring the distance and movements of the golfer markers; and

(b) the server is configured to process data received from the camera and transmit instructions to the user or to the swing guide relating to the golfer markers.

6. The golf putting training system according to claim 5, wherein the server is configured to determine the relative position of the hat marker above the golf ball marker and transmit instructions to the user or the swing guide to position the hat marker above the golf ball marker.

7. A golf putting swing guide for placement parallel to a line of sight between a ball and a target hole, comprising an (i) upper surface having a ball alignment marker, a starting marker distal to the target hole, and an ending marker proximal to the target hole, and (ii) a side surface.

8. The golf putting swing guide according to claim 7, wherein the side surface is planar.

9. The golf putting swing guide according to claim 7, wherein the side surface is arched.

10. A golf putting training system, the system comprising an input source, a processing server, and an output source, wherein

(i) the input source is configured to receive images and data and communicate such images and such data to the processing server;

(ii) the processing server is configured to receiving images and data from the input source and process the images and data using pre-determined parameters to determine whether the images and data fall within or outside the pre-determined parameters;

(iii) the processing server is configured to communicate images and data to the output source, including whether the images and data fall within or outside the pre-determined parameters;

(iv) the output source communicates instructions to a user to adjust one or more of the parameters; and

(v) the processing server processes subsequent images and subsequent data received from the input source and compares the subsequent images and subsequent data with previous images and previous data, and then communicates updated instructions to the user until all subsequent images and subsequent data fall within the pre-determined parameters.

11. The golf putting training system according to claim 10, wherein the processing server resides in a device selected from the group consisting of one or more of the input source, a cloud computer, personal computer, display monitor, and output source.

12. The golf putting training system according to claim 10, wherein the input source is selected from the group consisting of a mobile drone, an autonomous drone station, a motion capture camera, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a desktop computer, a portable phone, and an electronic watch.

13. The golf putting training system according to claim 10, wherein the output source is selected from the group consisting of a mobile drone, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a desktop computer, a portable phone, earbuds, and an electronic watch.

14. The golf putting training system according to claim 10, wherein the processing server is wirelessly connected to the input source and wirelessly connected to the output source.

15. A golf putting training mat comprising a surface comprising a swing guide having markings to guide a user as to where a putt stroke should begin and where the putt stroke should end depending upon the distance from the target hole.