WO1992001496A1 - Systeme d'entrainement au swing de golf - Google Patents

Systeme d'entrainement au swing de golf Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1992001496A1
WO1992001496A1 PCT/US1991/005030 US9105030W WO9201496A1 WO 1992001496 A1 WO1992001496 A1 WO 1992001496A1 US 9105030 W US9105030 W US 9105030W WO 9201496 A1 WO9201496 A1 WO 9201496A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
base
golf
hitting
hitting surface
edges
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US1991/005030
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Joseph Mario Durso
Original Assignee
Joseph Mario Durso
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from CA 2045456 external-priority patent/CA2045456A1/fr
Priority claimed from US07/724,916 external-priority patent/US5141232A/en
Priority claimed from US07/726,162 external-priority patent/US5110133A/en
Application filed by Joseph Mario Durso filed Critical Joseph Mario Durso
Publication of WO1992001496A1 publication Critical patent/WO1992001496A1/fr

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
    • A63B69/36—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf
    • A63B69/3667—Golf stance aids, e.g. means for positioning a golfer's feet
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2209/00—Characteristics of used materials
    • A63B2209/10—Characteristics of used materials with adhesive type surfaces, i.e. hook and loop-type fastener
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
    • A63B69/36—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf
    • A63B69/3661—Mats for golf practice, e.g. mats having a simulated turf, a practice tee or a green area

Definitions

  • This invention concerns a golf practice article, its preparation and use.
  • the invention is a useful amusement. Background
  • golf driving range operators in general are not in much of a position to give golf swing instruction, especially with the great numbers of hitting positions having such known mats implaced on the range. Accordingly, beginning golfers, without an opportunity for instruction at such a range, usually develop bad golf swing habits on the range, which carry over onto the actual course. Further Information
  • a golf practice mat Hoag, U.S. Pat. No. 2,790,640 (April 30, 1957), discloses a golf practice mat.
  • the main objects of that invention are to provide: a brush construction, a brush construction which simulates turf and therefore is usable especially for practicing golf iron shots, means for securing the bristles in place on a mounting base which permits facile assembly of the brush and replacement sections of bristles that become damaged or excessively worn, a form of bristle-mounting base especially adapted for use in conjunction with a standard mat commonly used for teeing up golf balls for practice wood shots, and a brush construction of this kind which, by reason of its simple and practical structure, is extremely inexpensive to manufacture.
  • Amos et al. U.S. Pat. No. 3,129,944 (April 21, 1964), discloses a golf mat composed of a plurality of parallel brush strips. That invention relates to a golf mat of the general type shown by McLaughlin, U.S. Pat. No. 2,668,711 (February 9, 1954), reported to have several important advantages and to have been found generally satisfactory. Brush fibers forming the mats are resilient in character and resemble natural turf to some extent. Moreover, the mats find particularly advantageous use in the practice of fairway wood and iron shots as they eliminate the task of divot replacement and the need for relocation of practice tees due to excessive turf removal.
  • Fischl U.S. Pat. No. 3,348,847 (Oct. 24, 1967), discloses a golf practice device including simulated divot means. That invention relates to a game practice device for improving game skill by practicing fundamentals of the game under conditions simulating actual game conditions, and more particularly it relates to a golf practice device.
  • Mitchell, U.S. Pat. No. 3,414,266 discloses a golf practice putting rug.
  • That invention is a golf rug having three longitudinal area strips, each having a different pile height and disposed in a graduated manner from least height to tallest height. These area strips are sewn together with the aid of narrow demarcation strips of contrasting color disposed therebetween.
  • Anderson, U.S. Pat. No. 3,542,369 discloses a golf practice mat.
  • that invention is a portable practice mat made of felted sisal fibers having its ends faced by a plastic material. A tee with a wide base extends upward through a centrally located hole in the mat. Indicia on the plastic material shows the direction of the target and the path that the head of the club should follow to drive a ball from the tee to the target. Additional indicia shows the proper position of the golfer's feet.
  • Elesh, U.S. Pat. No. 3,599,982 discloses a golf-practice mat.
  • that invention is a practice mat for golfers, the mat of rubber of substantial length and width, containing no metal parts and having a cavity in one end of the face of the mat containing a brush removably secured in the cavity and to the mat, and the brush having an upstanding rubber tube extending from the lower portion of the rubber mat upwardly through the brush and extending upwardly above the brush surface, whereby golf iron shots may be practiced from the brush surface and golf wood shots may be practiced using the rubber tube.
  • Bohnen, U.S. Pat. No. 3,717,349 discloses a divot indicating golf practice mat.
  • that invention is a golf practice mat formed of many separate strands of bendable members each individually extending upwardly from a base in spaced relation to one another to simulate blades of grass and a turfy surface of imitation grass, the individual strands being adapted to assume and stay in a bent condition impressed therethrough by the movement of a golf club head for collectively indicating the direction of such movement relative to a centerline aimed toward target until reset into upright condition preparatory to the next practice stroke of movement of a golf club head therethrough.
  • Previte, Jr., U.S. Pat. No. 3,753,563 discloses a golf practice device.
  • That invention is concerned with a device for practicing and improving a golf swing. It is most advantageously used when practicing with a wood or iron rather than with a putter.
  • the device features two walls with an alley in between them, the alley having an artificial turf-like material thereon.
  • the separation of the walls is adjustable so that the walls can be brought closer together as the golfer's swing improves. At least the wall closest to the golfer may be rotated to form different angles with the artificial turf.
  • the angle can be adjusted to suit the size of the golfer and the particular golf club being used, and also to enable the golfer to establish a standard distance between himself and the ball.
  • the bottom surface of the device includes two rotatably attached spikes for anchoring the device in the ground. The spikes may be rotated relative to the bottom surface and fitted into depressions which include constrictions for holding the spikes in storage positions.
  • Coffey et al. U.S. Pat. No. 3,880,432 (Apr. 29, 1975), discloses a synthetic golf tee.
  • that invention is a synthetic golf hitting area adaptable for receiving a golf tee upon which a golf ball is placed for striking, which includes a frame mounted on a subsurface and a synthetic grass like fabric which is mounted on and stretched across the frame.
  • the grass like fabric is a pile carpet of knitted construction wherein the total yarn denier is from about 3,000 to about 10,000 and wherein the tuft density of the piles ranges from 24 to 64 per square inch with the pile height being from one-fourth inch to three-fourth inches. Jessee, U.S. Pat. No.
  • 3,992,011 discloses a heads down golf practice device.
  • that invention is a heads down golf practice device having a resilient tubular golf tee member mounted in and protruding upwardly from a resilient, flat tee support structure base.
  • the base includes a light emitting assembly having a light visible through the tee interior portion of the resilient tubular golf tee and mechanical indexing elements for randomly selecting a color of visible light.
  • the support structure is placed in front of a golfer on a relatively flat surface in a desired location; a golf ball is placed on the tubular tee thereby covering the light which is otherwise visible through the tee interior at the tee top; a color is randomly selected by the golfer, and the golfer swings his golf club, striking the ball and setting it in flight, and observes the light color after the ball is struck and the club passes over the tee, if the golfer's shoulders, head and eyes are positioned correctly, the instant the golf club strikes the ball and passes over the tee.
  • Golden, U.S. Pat. No. 3,992,013 discloses a golf club swing training method.
  • that invention provides a method and device for recording the swing of a golf club over a mat and permitting the analysis of the depth of the swing, the arc of the swing and the angle of the face of the golf club head when it contacts the mat.
  • a resilient mat is covered with a thin film of chalk dust and a golf club head capable of dispersing the dust on the mat when it contacts the mat. The dust is dispersed in a pattern on the mat, which due to the attachment, permits analysis to determine the foregoing.
  • the mat may also be provided with indicia related to a golf ball, and the equivalence of making a divot by the golfer may also be determined.
  • Lindquist, U.S. Pat. No. 4,130,283 discloses a simulated fairway subsurface for golf apparatus.
  • that invention is a device for use in connection with a golf game or practice apparatus for simulating a fairway surface to enable a player to execute each shot as he would in actual play, especially enabling the player to "strike down" at the golf ball with the simulated feel of taking a chunk of turf but without damaging the simulated fairway surface.
  • the device utilizes an artificial grass turf secured to a cushioned support that is movable in the direction of flight of the ball and compressible when the surface is struck during the golfer's swing.
  • the movable and compressible portion of the artificial turf will return to its original position as soon as the club head is disengaged from the turf.
  • the movable section of artificial turf together with the cushioned support thus provides the golfer with the same "feel" as if actual turf had been taken during the golf shot.
  • U.S. Pat. No. 4,164,352 (Aug. 14, 1979), discloses a golf swing practice mat.
  • that invention is a training mat for golfers, which includes an area of artificial grass from which a teed golf ball may be driven, and a foot placement area on which the golfer stands.
  • the mat contains diverse markings which enable a golfer to properly position his feet and the golf ball when using the different clubs of a set.
  • a foot supporting wedge may be pivotally mounted on the foot placement area to support the golfer's rear foot.
  • U.S. Pat. No. 4,311,312 discloses an elastic cord suspended golf practice pad.
  • That invention is a pad of synthetic grass slidably mounted within a rectangular frame by resilient members which connect the front and rear portions of the pad to the frame.
  • the pad is adapted to slide on a horizontal surface, and return to its original position when a golf ball is struck therefrom.
  • the resilient members may be cloth covered rubber cords which are attached to a center portion of the frame by a pivotedly mounted pulley.
  • Rydeck, U.S. Pat. No. 4,355,810 discloses a golf club swing training device.
  • that invention has a plastic grass mat that shows the proper positions for the feet and hips in the modern one piece golf swing, in which the body and the golf club have to be coordinate. It gives the golfer the positions for putting, chipping, pitching, iron shots, and wood shots.
  • a plastic or rubber guideway for the golf club is built into the mat, and it shows the golfer how to position and also how to rotate his shoulders properly. The guideway shows visually, manually, and physically how to swing the club through properly in the one piece modern golf swing.
  • There is a tension spring in the guideway that squares the golf club face to the target and makes the ball go straight.
  • the back end of the guideway is flared out so that incorrect swings are corrected while the golfer is learning.
  • Another feature of that apparatus is that the plastic grass mat rolls up into the guideway s the training apparatus can be used at home or easily taken to the office, school, or practice range. It can be used without balls, with plastic balls or with real golf balls.
  • Russell et al. U.S. Pat. No. 4,346,896 (Aug. 31, 1982), discloses a portable golf mat.
  • that invention is a golf practice mat made up of two frames hinged together with one frame having an area where a golfer can stand to hold the mat to the ground, and the other frame has two playing surface regions on which balls to be struck can be played.
  • One of the regions has a simulated grass-type surface, and the other region is formed of strips of rubber or rubber based material in an open weave pattern which can receive and support a tee without damaging the material.
  • Bars or struts are located within the frames and provide support for the area where the golfer can stand and for the playing surface regions.
  • the playing surface regions are movably supported in the other frame.
  • U.S. Pat. No. 4,387,896 discloses a slidable golf practice device.
  • that invention is a synthetic grass hitting surface slidably positioned within a rectangular frame and supported by a static surface. The sides of the frame and the static surface from slots. Sideward extensions of the base of the hitting surface are snugly fitted into the slots.
  • the hitting surface is adapted to slide horizontally on the static surface when a golf ball is struck from the hitting surface, but the snug fit of the side extensions of the hitting surface in the slots and the drag of the hitting surface over the static surface causes resistance to displacement of the hitting surface.
  • Hammon et al. U.S. Pat. No. 4,844,470 (July 4, 1989), discloses a golf mat.
  • that invention is a golf mat of a grass-like material, which includes top and bottom pads, each of which includes belting material which substantially strengthens them and protects the mat from damage from golf clubs striking it.
  • the golf tee extends only through the top pad and not through the mat, and the belting material of the top pad prevents any enlargement of the hole through the top pad which includes felt carpet which also gives a grass-like appearance.
  • the top pad is loosely secured to the mat and may be raised at its center for replacement of the tee, and the top pad absorbs energy from the golf club due to its ability to move relative to the mat when it is struck.
  • the pad may be replaced through operation of the bolts at its opposite ends.
  • apparatus for practicing golf comprising two members adapted to be placed on a flat surface with complementary edges in abutment, one member having means for receiving a device such as a tee for supporting a golf ball in a fixed position relative to the other member, the apparatus including markings on the two members enabling the members to be placed in particular positions relative to each other, the other member having marked locations for indication in use, the feet positions of a person using the apparatus.
  • a device such as a tee for supporting a golf ball in a fixed position relative to the other member
  • Becker et al. U.S. Pat. No. 3,627,328 (Dec. 14, 1971), discloses a golf practice device including stance coordinator.
  • that invention is a device to permit the practice of golf strokes both indoors and outdoors by striking a a spring-loaded object representing the golf ball and including an adjustable arm including a footpad at its free end for controlling the stance of the golfer and holding the device in place on club impact.
  • An indicia diagram is provided on the device to indicate to the golfer a yardage assimilation of his stroke.
  • the fastening strip includes a snap fastener button at one end, which will fit into a golf tee receiving hole provided in the device, and loop-type fiber fasteners (such as "Velcro,” i.e., VELCRO) at the other end, which fasteners interlock with the carpet pile.
  • loop-type fiber fasteners such as "Velcro,” i.e., VELCRO
  • Nedwick U.S. Pat. No. 4,257,607 (Mar. 24, 1981), discloses golf swing guides.
  • that invention is a golf swing guide that serves as an aid for a correct golf playing stroke, the device including a base -16- member adhered to a golf player's glove or midriff site, and an indicator member detachably attached by VELCRO fasteners to the base member, the indicator member including an upstanding, flat arrowhead including pointed side spurs of unequal lengths, a point and a plane of which are utilized directionally for accomplishing the correct stroke.
  • the present invention in one aspect, provides a golf swing training device (pad) comprising a flat substantially rectangular base having two forwardly directable edges a predetermined distance apart, means for securing the base to a practice surface, a substantially rectangular hitting surface having two forwardly directable edges spaced apart a predetermined distance less than the predetermined distance between the two forwardly directable edges of the base, means for adjustably attaching the hitting surface to the base, and optionally, either a ball position pointer pivotably associatable with the base, which comprises an elongate substantially parallel-sided pivotable rule having a pivot end and a pointer distal to the pivot end, or a golfer's square.
  • the golfer's square comprises the ball position pointer or the like, an elongate substantially parallel-sided right rule rightly attachable to the pivotable rule, and means for attaching the rules.
  • a method for providing golf swing instruction employing the golf swing training pad and/or the ball position pointer or the golfer's square. Included are bases and hitting surfaces with a forwardly directed wedge-shaped portion and bases with sighting tabs.
  • the present invention in yet another aspect, provides a golf swing training mat having a follow-through notch. Another aspect comprises hitting a ball off near an edge of the mat.
  • the invention is a useful amusement, for golf.
  • This invention overcomes many, many problems, to include aforementioned, problems in the art.
  • a golfer is able and is encouraged to realistically practice hitting down and through the ball as is to be done with an iron shot to obtain good backspin and hence, loft. Bounce-back or shock can be generally eliminated, and the golfer can thus practice a fluid iron stroke generally without, for example, mat-caused interruption.
  • a really effective guide to proper foot and club placement at the address position can be obtained. Accordingly, golfers, even at driving ranges where mats of the present invention are emplaced, can develop better golf swing habits during practice, which carry over onto the actual course. Beginning as well as experienced golfers can find this invention advantageous as truly authentic and proper golf swings can be practiced therewith. Also with the pad, straight, fade or draw shots can be taught and practiced, and the pad, and the pointer, and the golfer's square are portable.
  • Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a golf swing training device, including pad, of the present invention, separated.
  • Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the golf swing training device generally of Fig. 1, as attached for fade shot training for a right-handed golfer.
  • Fig. 3 is a top plan view of the golf swing training device of Fig. 2, as attached for straight shot training for the right handed golfer.
  • Fig. 4 is a top plan view of the golf swing training device of Fig. 2, as attached in position for draw shot training for the right-handed golfer.
  • Fig. 5 is a top view of a golfer's square training device, assembled, of the present invention.
  • Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a golf swing training device of the present invention, as attached with a pad device for straight tee shot training for the right-handed golfer, addressing a ball.
  • Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a golfer's square training device of the present invention, for straight tee shot training for the right-handed golfer, addressing a ball.
  • Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a ball position pointer training device of the present invention, for straight tee shot training for the right-handed golfer, addressing a ball.
  • Fig. 9 is a top plan view of the device as generally depicted in Fig. 6, showing some positions that feet of the right-handed golfer may assume in golf swing training.
  • Fig. 10 is a partial side sectional view of a golf swing training device (pad) of the present invention, attached, including a rubber tee for tee shot training.
  • Fig. 11 is a top view of a golf swing training device of the present invention, having a forwardly directed directed wedge-shaped base and hitting surface portion, and an open-ended tee slot in its base, separated.
  • Fig. 12 is a top view of the golf swing training device generally of Fig. 11, assembled.
  • Fig. 13 is a top view of a golf swing training device of the present invention, with sighting tabs, a forwardly directed wedge-shaped base and hitting surface portion, and a closed-ended tee slot in its base, separated.
  • Fig. 14 is a top view of the golf swing training device generally of Fig. 13, assembled.
  • Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a golf swing training device of the present invention, separated.
  • Fig. 16 is a perspective view of the golf swing training device generally of Fig. 15, as partially assembled and packaged as an insert in a binder with instruction pages.
  • Fig. 17 is a top plan view of a mat of this invention.
  • Fig. 18 is a cutaway side view of part of the mat shown in Fig. 17.
  • Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a mat of the present invention such as shown in Figs. 17 & 18 in use. Illustrative Detail
  • the present invention has plural embodied aspects.
  • the golf swing training device of the present invention can include or is a "pad” and has:
  • a flat substantially rectangular base having two forwardly directable edges a predetermined distance apart.
  • a substantially rectangular hitting surface having two forwardly directable edges spaced apart a predetermined distance less than, more than or substantially the same as (preferably, less than or substantially the same as) the predetermined distance between the two forwardly directable edges of the base.
  • Means for adjustably attaching the hitting surface to the base which means is one such that alignment and shiftability of the hitting surface in relation to the base is permitted readily and repeatedly by lifting the hitting surface from the base prior to executing a swing of a golf club in conjunction with the pad yet such that anchoring of the hitting surface to the base is extant when the hitting surface is struck by the golf club in executing the golf swing.
  • the present device can alternatively include:
  • a ball position pointer pivotably associatable with the base having an elongate substantially parallel-sided pivotable rule with a pivot end and a pointer distal to the pivot end.
  • the golfer's square has:
  • the device can be small. Preferably, it is at most about 2 feet (61 cm) along its forwardly directable edges by about 1 or so foot (30.5 cm) along its sidewardly directable edges, especially of its hitting surface, of course, with the distances along the sidewardly directable edges of the hitting surface generally being less than at least the rearward, e.g., non-notched, sidewardly directable edge of the base, by about 1-1/2 inches (4 cm) in overall thickness, excluding any tee associatable therewith, and the ball position pointer is at most about 2 feet (61 cm) in length, and the said parallel-sided right rule of the -22- golfer's square is at most about 2 feet (61 cm) in length.
  • a preferred golf swing training device 100 has flat rectangular base 110 of a suitably strong, supple substance, e.g., a solid plastic, but preferably a solid polyvinyl chloride (PVC) such as rigid or rigid foam PVC, for example, commercially available CELTEC (TM) or CENTREX (TM) PVC, or the like, of a light coloration, or white, having two forwardly directable edges 111 a predetermined distance apart, e.g., 10 inches (25.4 cm), along two sidewardly directable edges 112. These two forwardly and two sidewardly directable edges are parallel to each other, respectively, and right angles are made at the intersections of the edges.
  • PVC solid polyvinyl chloride
  • the two forwardly directable edges e.g., 13 inches (33 cm), not including additional length attributable to any notch which may be present, are longer than the two sidewardly directable edges, e.g., 10 inches (25.4 cm).
  • Holes 113 e.g., 1/4 inch (0.635 cm) in diameter, six each, are in the base.
  • Notches 114 preferably symmetrical, e.g., each cut or molded to be
  • the notches can be useful for accommodating the ball position pointer pivotably associatable with the base and/or for presentation of a golf ball for ready alignment of a golf club used for striking the ball.
  • Golf club alignment indicia 115 e.g., bright yellow lines 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) wide, are present on the base directly behind these notches to help remind a golfer to align the golf club face square to the target before starting a backswing.
  • Forwardly directed border 116 is present.
  • Means 120 for securing the base to a practice surface is provided, e.g., by six flat headed 8-inch (20.32-cm) by 1/4-inch (0.635-cm) aluminum spikes, which are driven into the practice surface, e.g., natural sod or turf, through the holes in the base to hold the base firmly even when the golf swing training device is struck during a golf swing.
  • Rectangular hitting surface 130 is artificial but in imitation of the color and rough feel of natural turf grass, e.g., of nylon ASTRO TURF (TM) , or the like, which may be backed by a resilient or rubbery substance, especially when employed by beginning golfers where the backing may generally increase in thickness the less experienced the golfer is, but which backing is preferably absent, and has two forwardly directable edges 131 spaced apart a predetermined distance, e.g., 8 inches (20.32 cm) along two sidewardly directable edges 132.
  • TM nylon ASTRO TURF
  • the distance along edges 131 is typically slightly longer than the distances along edges 111, e.g., 15 inches (38.1 cm), and the distances along edges 132, e.g., 8 inches (20.32 cm) are less than distance along edges 112, e.g., 10 inches (25.4 cm), to leave the forwardly directed border on the base. Too, these forwardly and sidewardly directable edges of the hitting surface are parallel to each other, respectively; right angles are made at the intersections of the edges, and the two forwardly directable edges are longer than these two sidewardly directable edges.
  • the hitting surface has tee hole 133, e.g., 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) in diameter, in it near, e.g., 1 inch (2.54 cm) from, a sidewardly directable edge and equidistant from its forwardly directable edges.
  • the tee hole is for insertion of a rubber tee 134 therethrough.
  • Means 140 for adjustably attaching the hitting surface to the base is provided, e.g., by VELCRO (TM) pieces or the like, which include separate hook and loop portions suitably attachable to the base and the hitting surface, to make up an area 8 inches (20.31 cm) by 15 inches (38.1 cm) as from the use of two commercially available 4-inch (10.16-cm) wide strips, side-by-side, glued to the upper side of the base, equidistant from the two forwardly directed edges to leave two parallel 1-inch (2.54-cm) lightly colored, or white, borders, and glued to the under side of the entire hitting surface, with the hooked piece of the VELCRO thus glued onto the base and the looped piece of the VELCRO thus glued onto the hitting surface.
  • VELCRO TM pieces or the like, which include separate hook and loop portions suitably attachable to the base and the hitting surface, to make up an area 8 inches (20.31 cm) by 15 inches (38.1 cm) as from the use of two commercially available
  • Golfer's square 150 has elongate parallel-sided pivotable rule 151, e.g., of the same 1/4-inch (0.635-cm) plastic as the base but being about 15 inches (38.1 cm) by 1-5/8 inches (4.1275 cm), having a pivot end 152 and a pointer 153 distal to the pivot end.
  • This rule alone is an embodiment of the ball position pointer pivotably associatable with the base of the golf training device of this invention.
  • This golfer's square can be pivotably connected to the base, e.g., by insertion of one of the spikes through distal hole 154, e.g., 1/4 inch (0.625 cm) in diameter, and the appropriate corner hole of the base.
  • Elongate parallel-sided right rule 155 e.g., of the same 1/4 inch plastic as the base but in general being about 15 inches (38.1 cm) by 1 inch (2.54 cm), is rightly attachable to the pivotable rule, i.e., attachment of the rules can form a right angle therewith, between its ends but nearer to the pointer distal to the pivot end, e.g., as readily obtainable through right angle guide 156.
  • Means 157 for attaching the rules is provided, e.g. , by VELCRO pieces or the like glued to the lower side of the pointer- containing rule and the upper side of the right angle guide-containing rule.
  • the device e.g., with the dimensions exemplified as for Figs. 1-4, 6 & 9, can weigh about 1 pound (454 g) or so and may be less than that.
  • salient dimensions of device embodiments of the present invention e.g., made to include a 1/4-inch (6 mm) thick rigid or rigid foam PVC base, etc., can include general feature dimensions such as those that follow:
  • the rigid or rigid foam PVC for example in comparison with other suitable plastics, is generally less dense, can more readily accommodate gluing of such a material as, for example, VELCRO, thereto, and is nearly just as durable and weatherable if not more so.
  • the pad e.g., especially with the smaller dimensions as exemplified for Figs. 15 & 16 (and 11-14 too) , can be partially assembled and packaged as an insert in a binder, e.g., a 3-ring binder for accommodating letter- or A4-sized paper, in conjunction with pages of golf instruction.
  • the pad e.g., with the rigid or rigid foam PVC base, etc. , and especially with the smaller dimensions as exemplified as aforesaid, can be one that weighs less than a pound (454 g) and thus be highly portable and adaptable as well.
  • A&B Forward: 4 inches (10 cm) across at notch, tapering to 2 inches (5 cm) at its forwardmost part.
  • HYTREL e.g., the HYTREL 6356
  • HYTREL 6356 is a well-known -28- engineering thermoplastic elastomer, a block copolymer of a hard (crystalline) segment of polybutylene terephthalate and a soft (amorphous) segment based on long-chain polyether glycols, the properties of which are determined by its ratio of hard to soft segments and make-up of the segments, and, in comparison with many other plastics, is very flexible, and extremely tough and strong, has a leather-like flex to it and can readily accommodate stitches 119 as in shoe working of such a material as, for example, 4-inch (10.2-cm) wide VELCRO 140, thereto, and is most durable and weatherable.
  • this device e.g., especially with the smaller dimensions as exemplified for Figs. 11 & 12 and 13 & 14, can be partially assembled and packaged as an insert in a binder, e.g., a 3-ring binder for accommodating letter-sized or A4-sized paper, too, in conjunction with pages of golf instruction.
  • a binder e.g., a 3-ring binder for accommodating letter-sized or A4-sized paper, too, in conjunction with pages of golf instruction.
  • This device e.g., with the HYTREL 6356 base, etc. , and especially with the smaller dimensions as exemplified for Figs. 11 & 12 and 13 & 14, without a doubt, can be one that weighs less than a pound (454 g) and thus be most highly portable and adaptable.
  • the notches of this device can be cut to have an obtuse angle, e.g.
  • the sighting tabs 115 greatly assist in club face alignment, so essential for good practice and play, and absence of rear side base portion 116 does not necessarily hurt practice but can actually engender better practice and play.
  • rear sighting aids for example, a rear side hole 118 in through which a golf tee 134 or the like, e.g., of a color to match the tabs 115, can be inserted to assist in teaching stroke direction for the shot. See, Figs. 11 & 12 as shown for a left-handed golfer.
  • tee 134 may simply be inserted in most any ground alongside the device, for example, in a position analogous to the rear side holes 118 marked with an "X.”
  • a tee slot 117 say, about 3/8 inch (1 cm) or so wide by about an inch (2.54 cm) or so long, which may be open at the forwardmost edge (See, Fig. 11.) or may be closed off (See,
  • a standard wooden-type golf tee 134 there, can be provided in the base, into which a standard wooden-type golf tee 134 may be inserted through
  • the tee hole 133 may be white.
  • this tee can react to the impact with less likelihood of its breaking, and the shot becomes even more authentic than that which would occur with a rubber tee 134.
  • SUBSTITUTESHEET This device is secured with spikes 120, too, but it may often be used without a ball position pointer or the golfer's square.
  • the golf swing training device of the present invention can be made by known methods or processes. Accordingly thus, plastics, treated leathers or plastic imitations thereof, and so forth can be employed. Suitable plastic materials can include nylon, plasticized acrylic polymers, polyolefin polymers such as HDPE or LDPE, rigid or foamed PVC, the HYTREL especially, e.g., HYTREL 6356. As is known in the art, such plastics may be extruded and so forth, and other components such as, for example, 4-inch (10.2-cm) wide VELCRO hook and loop material, may be attached such as by gluing, sewing, and/or hot pressing, etc. , and final shapes can be obtained by cutting, drilling, etc. Desirably, the device is at most about 1-1/2 x 2/3 feet (46 x 21 cm) , and even more so, it is even more compact.
  • the ball is preferably placed forward on the hitting surface or tee of the pad, with the hitting surface being aligned straight for straight shots, aligned with its forward end toward the inside for a deliberate fade, or slice, and aligned with its forward end toward the outside for a deliberate draw, or hook, always with the base remaining aligned straight toward the desired target.
  • the pointer is positioned at a right angle to the forward direction of the hitting surface, say, somewhat toward the inside of the golfer's forward heel, and the golfer's square is positioned parallel to the forward direction of the hitting surface behind the pointer or the like.
  • the golfer lines up his feet and shoulders parallel with the rightly attachable rule of the golfer's square and thus with the initial line of flight, as defined by the forwardly directed sides of the base, of any good shot, whether it be straight, to include puts, or a fade or a draw.
  • the golfer's feet are placed an appropriate distance apart and an appropriate distance from the ball such as in position to hit a wood shot, where the feet are generally positioned farthest apart and farthest from the ball, a short iron shot, where the feet are generally positioned closest together and closest to the ball, or a long or mid iron shot, where the feet are generally positioned somewhat between those two extremes. See e.g., Figs. 6-9.
  • the present invention is an excellent means of practicing the putting stroke. Another ball placed behind the ball to be struck may be drawn back the length of the hitting surface in excellent practice of a good backswing for wood or iron shots or for putting.
  • the forward positioning of the ball on the hitting surface provides the most authentic practice benefit known from an artificial surface. This is of utmost importance because as is known in the game an iron shot properly struck actually makes contact with the ball before the club reaches the bottom of the swing. Since there are no obstructions -32- front or back, the ball placement at the forward edge of the hitting surface allows the club to strike the ball, continue down and out past the leading edge of the hitting surface and then up in the course of the natural swing. In this way, the golfer can make a rapid spin on the ball, which is vital to the golfer's ability to control the flight and/or bounce of a ball.
  • the most authentic and natural like feel from the forward positioning of the ball on the hitting surface is unlike that found, for example, when the ball is struck from a more centralized portion of the hitting surface (or in the ball placement of known mats) where an unnatural bump or bounce of the club occurs upon hitting the ball.
  • a practice iron shot off artificial turf feels virtually the same as a shot off natural turf.
  • the pad of the present invention capitalizes most effectively on this through its preferred hitting surface.
  • the placement of the ball on the forward edge of the hitting surface is an excellent if not essential guide to a good backswing as well as the downswing in that the full preferred forwardly directed surface is visible behind the ball position, encouraging the golfer to swing back and forward along the extended surface to the ball.
  • the golf swing practice device or pad is portable. Yet, it can be firmly emplaced through its base for an extended period, say even, over a year.
  • the pointer and/or golfer's square can be employed without the base, hitting surface, and so forth.
  • the trained golfer merely places the pointer and/or golfer's square on the ground appropriately as otherwise in use with the base, hitting surface, and so forth, and begins practice, e.g., before a match with practice golf balls.
  • a tee may be placed into hole 154 or 154(141) to secure the device to the ground.
  • all of the things learned by practicing with the present invention with its base, hitting surface, and so forth is applied to real turf conditions, but with the pointer and/or golfer's square weaning the golfer ever closer to no training device assistance at all.
  • this aspect of the present invention can help correct errors golfers make in setup and direction sighting, before the swing even begins. Golf in many ways is a game of optical illusions, and until the eye becomes trained, practicing golfers often think that they are lined up square to the target when actually they are aiming their shot to the right or to the left.
  • the first aspects of the present invention solve the problem of incorrect alignment by visually prompting a golfer to set up square to the desired line of flight of the ball so that all of the aspects of a golf swing can work properly toward the desired outcome.
  • divot taking which otherwise creates another variable for the next swing, can still be practiced yet the golfer need not move the mat to accomplish this as the ball is placed on the forward portion of the hitting surface so that a divot is properly taken, off the mat, whilst the mat, being nearly indestructible, remains to be used again and again.
  • the small size of the pad allows for positioning of the golfer's feet on natural turf, generally like that which would be encountered on a golf course.
  • the present invention solves the problem of practice in adverse weather where it is almost impossible to practice hitting golf shots in the rain, for example, in that the ground gets wet so that dirt from the divots taken upon hitting the ball turns to mud on the club face necessitating constant cleaning, because it can be used regardless of the weather with clean hits time after time off a hitting surface not affected by water, which results . in the serious golfer being able to practice in adverse weather and learning to overcome the physical and mental problems such weather engenders.
  • a VELCRO or the like material to bond the hitting surface to the base and cover anchoring spikes eliminates possible damage to golf clubs.
  • the tough, natural looking space-age materials used will absorb any swing attempt, good or bad, without marking or scratching most golf clubs.
  • the hitting surface can be moved on the base for straight, fade, and draw shots.
  • the hitting surface converts to driver practice with the tee insert. Merely remove the hitting surface, turn it 180 degrees, and replace it on the base with the tee positioned.
  • the base, hitting surface, notches and markings can be symmetrical; so the device works as well for right and left handed golfers.
  • the device of the present invention may be made of a size suitable for it being packaged, e.g., to include use of shrink-wrap plastic, and storable with an associated instruction binder, in addition to its being useful as an actual golf swing training device.
  • the invention to include its methods, engenders good practice for the golfer.
  • the golf swing training mat of this invention has at least one follow-through notch.
  • This notch envoids an area such that the golfer, when swinging an iron, can properly follow through downwardly after striking the ball into the downwardmost portion of the swing when the ball is struck near the edge of the mat on a hitting area thereabout.
  • the notch may be squarely or otherwise shaped, but it is preferably made to be trapezoidal, with a hitting edge segment about from 1 to 2 feet (ca. 30.5 to 61 cm) in length perpendicular to the intended line of flight of the golf ball to be struck and another edge segment about from 1 to 2-1/2 feet (ca. 30.5 to 72.2 cm) in length obliquely angled to the hitting area edge segment, which allows for the golfer to follow through in a practice swing without striking the obliquely-angled edge segment.
  • the mat of this invention may be made by known methods -38- or processes with known materials.
  • One method to make the mat of this invention involves simply cutting the follow- through notch with a suitable cutting instrument such as scissors or a knife in a commercially available 5 x 5 feet (1.52 x 1.52 meters) golfing mat.
  • the mat is preferably of a polyurethane or nylon material that nearly looks and gives a feeling of real grass and that is not easily destroyed with repeated swings, and with thick soft underpad.
  • the mat may be made with a grass-like polyurethane or ASTRO TURF nylon hitting surface about 1/2-inch high with rubbery padding underlayment about 1-1/2 inches thick.
  • Golf swing training mat 1100 has hitting surface 1130 and two follow-through notches 1138, one for right-handed golfers and the other for left-handed golfers, with the mat being turned 180 degrees to allow left-handed golfers to hit in the same general direction as right-handed golfers on the same range.
  • Directional edge 1131 generally points in the intended direction of ball flight.
  • Hitting area edges 1132 e.g., each 15 inches (38.1 cm) in length, are generally perpendicular to the intended direction of flight and are, e.g., perpendicular to the directional edge.
  • Tee holes 1133 e.g., 1/2-inch (1.27 cm) in diameter, are for insertion of golf tee 1134, e.g., of rubber.
  • Obliquely- angled edge segments 1135 e.g., each 18 inches (45.7 cm) in length, are at an angle, e.g., about 102 degrees, from the hitting area edges.
  • the hitting area edges and obliquely- angled edges define the notches.
  • Additional edge segments 1136 and full edge 1137 e.g., 5 feet (1.52 cm) in length, are present as well.
  • Padding 1139 underlies the hitting surface.
  • edge segments 1131a & 1136a would have been cut away along with that portion of the former mat that now defines the follow-through notch.
  • the mat of the invention may show some wear about the hitting areas.
  • first new hitting edge segments 1132a e.g., 3 inches (7.62 cm) from the original hitting edge segments, obliquely-angled edge segments 1135a, and tee holes 1133a may be cut to provide for further use.
  • second new hitting edge segments 1132b e.g., 3 inches (7.62 cm) from the first new hitting edge segments, obliquely-angled edge segments 1135b, e.g., 2 inches (5.08 cm) from the original obliquely-angled edge segments, and tee holes 1133b may be cut to provide for yet further use.
  • third new hitting edge segments 1132c e.g., 3 inches (7.62 cm) from the second new hitting edge segments, obliquely-angled edge segments 1135c, e.g., 2 inches (5.08 cm) from the first new obliquely-angled edge segments, and tee holes 1133c may be cut to provide for still further use.
  • golfer 1200 positions wood 1206 or iron 1206a behind teed ball 1205 or unteed ball 1205a, respectively, in the hitting area, with the club face perpendicular to the intended line of flight. Then, forward foot 1201 and rearward foot 1202 are lined up together perpendicular to the intended target, thus parallel to the directional edge. For example, the forward foot is lined up perpendicular to the obliquely-angled edge along imaginary forward foot line 1203, and the inside part of the forward heel is placed on or slightly ahead of imaginary forward heel line 1204.
  • the golfer then takes a backswing and a forward swing, striking the ball, and if the iron is used strikes the ball and then the mat near the hitting edge segment, following through downwardly through that portion of the mat into the follow- through notch.
  • the obliquely-angled edge segments may be used to further align the swing.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Golf Clubs (AREA)

Abstract

Un dispositif d'entraînement au swing de golf (100) comprend une base rigide (110) sur laquelle un gazon artificiel (130) est fixé de manière détachable à l'aide d'éléments de fixation en forme de crochets et de boucles (140) qui s'attachent les uns aux autres ou se détachent les uns des autres lorsque ces crochets et boucles sont pressés les uns contre les autres, ou séparés les uns des autres, respectivement. La base rigide (110) comprend diverses formes de dispositifs d'aide d'alignement (115) qui rappellent au golfeur que la face de la tête de son club doit être 'square' avant de commencer le 'backswing'. Les éléments allongés (151, 155) sont joints de manière détachable suivant un angle droit à l'aide d'éléments d'attache tels que des crochets et des boucles (157) pour former un dispositif d'aide d'alignement du 'stance' (position des pieds) (150) comprenant un pivot (154) joint à la base rigide (110). Dans une variante, un tapis d'entraînement au swing de golf (1100) possède une partie trapézoïdale (1138) que l'on peut enlever de sorte qu'un bord oblique (1135) vient en aboutement avec le bord de frappe (1132) du tapis (1100) et une bonne traversée de la tête du club de golf lors d'un swing ne viendra pas frapper le tapis (1100).
PCT/US1991/005030 1990-07-17 1991-07-17 Systeme d'entrainement au swing de golf WO1992001496A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (10)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US55331390A 1990-07-17 1990-07-17
US553,313 1990-07-17
US64216091A 1991-01-17 1991-01-17
US642,160 1991-01-17
CA2,045,456 1991-06-25
CA 2045456 CA2045456A1 (fr) 1990-06-25 1991-06-25 Appareil d'exercice de golf
US726,162 1991-07-02
US724,916 1991-07-02
US07/724,916 US5141232A (en) 1990-06-25 1991-07-02 Golf swing training system and method
US07/726,162 US5110133A (en) 1990-06-25 1991-07-02 Golf swing training system

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO1992001496A1 true WO1992001496A1 (fr) 1992-02-06

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US1991/005030 WO1992001496A1 (fr) 1990-07-17 1991-07-17 Systeme d'entrainement au swing de golf

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AU (1) AU8449291A (fr)
WO (1) WO1992001496A1 (fr)

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5577967A (en) * 1995-10-10 1996-11-26 Ibex Golf L.C. Golf swing practice device
US5662531A (en) * 1995-10-10 1997-09-02 Ibex Golf, L.C. Golf swing training mat for highly authentic practice
FR2755024A1 (fr) * 1996-10-30 1998-04-30 Nudelmont Jean Claude Dispositif d'entrainement au golf
GB2468280A (en) * 2009-03-02 2010-09-08 Jim Laflin A plate for providing a non slip surface when playing golf

Citations (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1517555A (en) * 1922-10-02 1924-12-02 Lyman V Graham Stance indicator for golf
US2608765A (en) * 1949-11-17 1952-09-02 Joseph F Doud Squaring tool
US2707638A (en) * 1952-11-05 1955-05-03 Manley Jesse Guy Individualized golfer's chart
US3063718A (en) * 1961-10-10 1962-11-13 Frederick E Steinkamp Detachable streamer means for use in playing touch football
US3094330A (en) * 1961-03-03 1963-06-18 Charles F Mitchell Bowler's practice and guide apparatus
US3627328A (en) * 1970-03-24 1971-12-14 Rudy R Becker Golf practice device including stance coordinator
US3753563A (en) * 1972-08-17 1973-08-21 J Previte Golf practice device
US4113258A (en) * 1976-12-20 1978-09-12 Fiorenzo Midana Golfer's club swing and stance training device
US4257607A (en) * 1979-07-23 1981-03-24 Zygmund Nedwick Golf swing guides

Patent Citations (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1517555A (en) * 1922-10-02 1924-12-02 Lyman V Graham Stance indicator for golf
US2608765A (en) * 1949-11-17 1952-09-02 Joseph F Doud Squaring tool
US2707638A (en) * 1952-11-05 1955-05-03 Manley Jesse Guy Individualized golfer's chart
US3094330A (en) * 1961-03-03 1963-06-18 Charles F Mitchell Bowler's practice and guide apparatus
US3063718A (en) * 1961-10-10 1962-11-13 Frederick E Steinkamp Detachable streamer means for use in playing touch football
US3627328A (en) * 1970-03-24 1971-12-14 Rudy R Becker Golf practice device including stance coordinator
US3753563A (en) * 1972-08-17 1973-08-21 J Previte Golf practice device
US4113258A (en) * 1976-12-20 1978-09-12 Fiorenzo Midana Golfer's club swing and stance training device
US4257607A (en) * 1979-07-23 1981-03-24 Zygmund Nedwick Golf swing guides

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5577967A (en) * 1995-10-10 1996-11-26 Ibex Golf L.C. Golf swing practice device
US5662531A (en) * 1995-10-10 1997-09-02 Ibex Golf, L.C. Golf swing training mat for highly authentic practice
FR2755024A1 (fr) * 1996-10-30 1998-04-30 Nudelmont Jean Claude Dispositif d'entrainement au golf
GB2468280A (en) * 2009-03-02 2010-09-08 Jim Laflin A plate for providing a non slip surface when playing golf

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