WO2005079933A1 - Golf putter alignment attachment system - Google Patents

Abstract

A golf putter alignment attachment (100), which includes an alignment device (120) supporting an alignment indicator. The device is attachable by a golfer or other individual or alternatively the golf putter manufacturer to the club head (110) so that the device extends outwardly therefrom and generally perpendicular to the club head face (164). When attached, the putter (110) can be oriented, visually using the alignment indicator, by the golfer relative to a golf ball (170) to assist the golfer in aiming the ball (170) towards a golf hole (174) while putting.

Description

GOLF PUTTER ALIGNMENT ATTACHMENT SYSTEM

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is continuation-in-part of copending U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 10/782,404, filed February 19, 2004, and this application claims the benefit of a U.S. provisional application filed February 10, 2005 and whose serial number has not yet been assigned. The entire contents of both of these applications are hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] In the game of golf, about half the strokes in a round take place on the greens. Good performance on the greens is generally considered to be two putts. It can be very frustrating even for good players, if three or more putts are used following good fairway shots. The putt requires accuracy in the force of the stroke and also in the direction the ball is struck. In this regard, alignment of the putter head relative to the hole during putting is important. Obtaining proper alignment of a golf club to both the ball and the intended target line is a common problem for many golfers.

[0003] Putters have thus been designed to have integrally incorporated therein alignment means for assisting the golfers, especially those with high handicaps, to align their putters relative to the ball and the desired direction of ball travel. One example is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,659,083 (Szczepanski), which shows a group of converging lines formed on the putter and converging towards the center of the base of the putter. (All patents, published applications and other publications mentioned anywhere in this disclosure are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.)

[0004] Another example is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,688,798 (Pelz), which shows a putter having two or three golf ball shaped indicators formed on the putter. Other examples are disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,809,981 (Doran et al.), 6,739,980 (Scott et al.) and 6,817,953 (Farmer) and U.S. Patent Application Publications 2004/0053703 (Snyder) and 2004/0127305 (Tang et al.). [0005] Also, it is often desirable for golfers to be able to adjust their putters to accommodate their individual needs. Examples of adjustable putters are disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,344,151 (Anderson et al.), 5,348,295 (Phillips), 5,533,730 (Ruvang), 6,056,647 (Tingelstad), and 6,817,953 (Farmer). See also Patent Application Publication Nos. U.S. 2003/0045372 (Vrska, Jr.) and U.S. 2002/0069133 (Currie et al.). Additionally, see the October 2004 press release for the Wilson Staff KC putter series.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Accordingly, disclosed herein is a golf putter alignment attachment assembly. This assembly allows a golfer to attach an alignment device to generally any golf putter and to remove it as desired and to subsequently reattach it or attach another alignment device. The assembly includes an alignment device having an alignment indicator. The indicator can be affixed to, affixable to by the user, or formed on a surface of the device, or can simply be the shape of the alignment device. The alignment device is then attachable to the putter so that the golfer can orient the putter relative to a golf ball, assisting the golfer in aiming the ball towards the golf hole during putting.

[0007] The alignment device can be attached (by the golfer) to the putter by a variety of means, such as a magnet means, a suction cup, adhesive pad, screw, male and female clasps, and other means as would be apparent to those skilled in the art can be used. The attachment mechanism can include a first connector attachable to the putter (for example, by the golfer or by the manufacturer of the golf putter), and the alignment device has a second connector for mating/cooperating with the first connector. For example, the first connector can be a metal piece and the second connector can be a magnet.

[0008] Although a preferred attachment method is to attach the alignment device directly to the golf putter club head, it is also within the scope of the invention to attach it to the golf putter shaft. This can be done by using a clamp on the shaft and with a support arm descending down from the clamp and supporting the alignment device at its lower end in the proximity of the club head.

[0009] The alignment device attachment includes a wide range of customization (mobility) in terms of the ability to possibly swap out and change several times during a single round of golf to semi-permanence. Additionally, the ability to vary the weight of the golf club head is preferably located on or provided by the alignment device. [0010] The present invention also includes the alignment alternative of the manufacturer or other parties using stickers, decals or some type of magnet sticker on the back or top portion of the putter. The manufacturer can provide a relatively smooth and flat area for this to be effective. Because they are (releasable adhesive) stickers or magnet decals, they can be easily removed or interchanged with other decals or magnets.

[0011] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent to those persons having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains from the foregoing description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a first embodiment of a golf putter alignment attachment assembly of the present invention being attached to a golf putter club head;

[0013] FIG. 2 is perspective view showing the attachment assembly of FIG. 1 in an attached position on the club head;

[0014] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the attachment assembly of FIG. 2 on the putter and in an alignment position by a golfer relative to a golf ball;

[0015] FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the alignment device of the attachment assembly of FIG. 1 shown in isolation;

[0016] FIG. 4 is an end elevational view thereof;

[0017] FIG. 5 is a side elevational view thereof;

[0018] FIG. 6 is a top view of the connector of the assembly of FIG. 1 shown in isolation;

[0019] FIG. 7 is a side elevational view thereof;

[0020] FIG. 8 is an end elevational view thereof;

[0021] FIG. 9 is a top view of another alignment device of the present invention;

[0022] FIG. 10 is an end elevational view thereof;

[0023] FIG. 11 is a side elevational view thereof;

[0024] FIG. 12 is a top view of a connector of an assembly which includes the alignment device of FIG. 9;

[0025] FIG. 13 is a side elevational view thereof; [0026] FIG. 14 is an end elevational view thereof;

[0027] FIG. 15 is a top view of another alignment device of the present invention;

[0028] FIG. 16 is an end elevational view thereof;

[0029] FIG. 17 is a side elevational view thereof;

[0030] FIG. 18 is a top view of a connector of the assembly which includes the alignment device of FIG. 15;

[0031] FIG. 19 is a side elevational view thereof;

[0032] FIG. 20 is an end elevational view thereof;

[0033] FIG. 21 is a top view of another alignment device of the present invention;

[0034] FIG. 22 is an end elevational view thereof;

[0035] FIG. 23 is a side elevational view thereof;

[0036] FIG. 24 is a top view of a connector of an attachment assembly which includes the alignment device of FIG. 21;

[0037] FIG. 25 is a side elevational view thereof;

[0038] FIG. 26 is an end elevational view thereof;

[0039] FIG. 27 is a side elevational view of a male attaching member securable to

(or part of) an alternative alignment device of the present invention;

[0040] FIG. 28 is a side elevational view of an alternative male attaching member;

[0041] FIG. 29 is a top view of a female socket member (connector) for securing therein the male attaching member of FIGS. 27 or 28;

[0042] FIG. 30 is a side elevational view of the socket of FIG. 29;

[0043] FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of the socket and is particularly adapted for the male attaching member of FIG. 27;

[0044] FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative socket and is particularly adapted for the male attaching member of FIG. 28;

[0045] FIG. 33 is a top view of an alternative rotational socket of the present invention;

[0046] FIG. 34 is a side elevational view of the socket;

[0047] FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view thereof;

[0048] FIG. 36 is a top view of another alignment device of the present invention;

[0049] FIG. 37 is an end elevational view thereof;

[0050] FIG. 38 is a side elevational view thereof;

[0051] FIG. 39 is a top view of another alignment device of the present invention; [0052] FIG. 40 is an end elevational view thereof;

[0053] FIG. 41 is a side elevational view thereof;

[0054] FIG. 42 is a top view of another alignment device of the present invention;

[0055] FIG. 43 is an end elevational view thereof;

[0056] FIG. 44 is a side elevational view thereof;

[0057] FIG. 45 is a top view of another alignment device of the present invention;

[0058] FIG. 46 is an end elevational view thereof;

[0059] FIG. 47 is a side elevational view thereof;

[0060] FIG. 48 is a top view of a connector of an attachment assembly which includes the alignment device of FIG. 45;

[0061] FIG. 49 is a side elevational view thereof;

[0062] FIG. 50 is an end elevational view thereof;

[0063] FIG. 51 is a top view of another alignment device of the present invention;

[0064] FIG. 52 is an end elevational view thereof;

[0065] FIG. 53 is a side elevational view thereof;

[0066] FIG. 54 is a top view of a connector of an attachment assembly which includes the alignment device of FIG. 51;

[0067] FIG. 55 is a side elevational view thereof;

[0068] FIG. 56 is an end elevational view thereof;

[0069] FIG. 57 is a side elevational view of an alternative alignment attachment assembly of the present invention shown mounted on a putter;

[0070] FIG. 58 is a top view of the assembly of FIG. 57;

[0071] FIG. 59 is a side elevational view of a putter club head showing a first attachment location for an assembly of the present invention;

[0072] FIG. 60 is a view similar to FIG. 59 showing a second attachment point;

[0073] FIG. 61 shows a third attachment point;

[0074] FIGS. 62-73 show designs of various alignment device shapes (without or prior to alignment/artful designs being applied thereto);

[0075] FIGS. 74-79 are top views of any of the alignment devices described above with alternative designs or alignment indicators that have been inked, painted, molded or otherwise applied thereon; [0076] FIGS. 80-85 show alignment devices similar to those depicted in FIGS. 74-

79, wherein the black portions represent solid material that has been removed from the body of the alignment device creating "hollow" designs;

[0077] FIGS. 86-91 are views similar to those in FIGS. 74-79 and 80-85 wherein the designs can be "applied" or "removed";

[0078] FIG. 92 is a top view of an alternative alignment device;

[0079] FIG. 93 is a side elevational view thereof;

[0080] FIG. 94 is a top view of a further alternative;

[0081] FIG. 95 is a side elevational view thereof;

[0082] FIG. 96 is an exploded perspective view showing another golf putter alignment attachment assembly of the present invention being attached to a golf putter club head;

[0083] FIG. 97 is a sectional side elevational view of the embodiment of FIG. 96 in an attached position on the golf putter head;

[0084] FIG. 98 is an exploded perspective view showing yet another golf putter alignment attachment assembly of the present invention being attached to a golf putter club head;

[0085] FIG. 98 is a side sectional view thereof;

[0086] FIG. 100 is an exploded perspective view showing a further golf putter alignment attachment assembly of the present invention being attached to a golf putter club head;

[0087] FIG. 101 is a side sectional view thereof;

[0088] FIG. 102 is an exploded perspective view showing a still further golf putter alignment attachment of the present invention being attached to a golf putter club head;

[0089] FIG. 103 is an exploded perspective view showing a yet still further golf putter alignment attachment assembly of the present invention being attached to a golf putter club head;

[0090] FIG. 104 is an exploded perspective view showing another golf putter alignment attachment assembly of the present invention being attached to a golf putter club head;

[0091] FIG. 105 is a perspective view of a variation of the embodiment of FIG.

104; [0092] FIG. 106 is a perspective view of another variation of the embodiment of

FIG. 104;

[0093] FIG. 107 is an exploded perspective view showing an embodiment of a golf putter alignment attachment assembly of the present invention being attached to a golf putter club head with alternative weighting members;

[0094] FIG. 108 is a view similar to that of FIG. 104 but showing alternative weighting members similar to that of FIG. 107;

[0095] FIG. 109 is an enlarged sectional view of the weight attachment portion of

FIG. 108;

[0096] FIG. 110 is a perspective view showing an alternative alignment device of the present invention;

[0097] FIG. 111 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a golf putter of the present invention with a detachable and replaceable alignment device;

[0098] FIG. 112 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative of the embodiment of FIG. 111 ;

[0099] FIG. 113 is an exploded perspective view showing an embodiment of a golf putter alignment attachment assembly of the present invention being attached to the golf putter club head;

[0100] FIG. 114 is an exploded perspective view of a variation of the embodiment of FIG. 113;

[0101] FIG. 115 is an exploded perspective view showing a variation of the golf putter club head of FIG. 113 with a detachable and replaceable alignment device;

[0102] FIG. 116 is a top view of the club head of FIG. 115; and

[0103] FIG. 117 is a side view thereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0104] Disclosed herein are various alignment assemblies wherein a golf ball to be struck forms an extension of the alignment attachment on the golf club putter to provide an indication that the putter club head is properly aligned with the golf ball and the intended target line. The alignment device is mountable, for example, perpendicular to the ball striking face of the golf club head. The alignment indicator of the alignment device is disposed perpendicular to the ball striking face preferably, and in use forms a line or a row with the ball to be struck when the putter is properly aligned by the golfer. The alignment device may be designed so that it curves (for example) upward or the alignment device may be designed so that it extends from the head either perpendicularly or at an angle for some distance before meeting a point at which it either curves or extends further at an angle. In the detailed description of the present invention that follows, it should be appreciated that like reference numerals are used to identify like elements illustrated in one or more of the figures.

[0105] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing an alignment assembly 100 of the present invention being secured to the head 104 of a golf putter shown generally at 110. The assembly 100 includes an alignment device 120 including a generally flat member 124 and a connector 128 secured thereto. The member 124 can be tongue-shaped, and as an example can have length, width and thickness dimensions of 3 % inches, 1 V* inches and 1/16 inch. For this embodiment and most of the other embodiments disclosed herein the connector is secured to a bottom surface of the flat member 124, extending down 3/16 inch, for example. The alignment assembly 100 further includes a separate connector 140 securable to the putter 110 (or more particularly, the club head 104). The other connector 140 is shown herein to include a metal piece 144 attached to an adhesive pad 148 to a surface of the putter head. The metal piece 144 releasably adheres to the magnet 150 in the alignment device connector. The alignment device 120 is shown in its various plan and side views in FIGS. 3-5. Similarly, the (putter) connector 128 is shown in its various views in FIGS. 6-8.

[0106] FIG. 2A is a stylized perspective view showing a golfer G in a putting position holding the shaft 160 of the putter 110 and looking down on the top surface of the alignment device 120. The alignment device 120 defines an alignment line which is perpendicular to the face 164 of the putter head 104 and is centered relative thereto. The golfer G thereby can align the head of the putter face so that it is not only perpendicular to the golf ball 170 but is in alignment with the golf ball and the golf hole 174 (or the intended golf ball path). Of course this alignment path can be a straight path or a curved path, depending upon the golf green characteristics and the golfer's putting strategy.

[0107] The attachment method of the assembly of FIG. 1 is a side attachment method of the connector of the alignment device with the putter connector similarly oriented. In contrast, the attachment method of the assembly of FIGS. 9-14 is a bottom attachment method. It is noted that either one of these assemblies can be altered, as alternative embodiments of this invention, with the putter connector including the magnet and the alignment device connector including the metal piece. This reversal of components can also be applied to the other figures and embodiments herein as would be apparent to those skilled in the art. [0108] More particularly, the alignment device 218 of the attachment assembly of FIGS. 9-14 includes a flat member 220 with the connector 214 attached to a bottom rearward surface of the flat member and defining a downwardly disposed holder for a permanent magnet 226. The putter connector 214 includes a metal piece 224 and an adhesive pad, with the metal piece disposed upwardly.

[0109] The assembly of FIGS. 15-20 and the assembly of FIGS. 21-26 show the use of magnets similar to the above-described assemblies. However, the magnets of the last two mentioned assemblies are used in conjunction with male-female constructions which may provide for better support than magnetic attachments alone. Specifically, a socket 240 mounting for the outwardly-extending magnet 244 of the alignment device 248 is provided on the putter connector 252. The assembly of FIGS. 15-20 has the magnet and socket laterally attached in a side arrangement. In contrast, the magnet 260 on the alignment device 264 and the socket 270 on the connector 274 of the assembly of FIGS. 21-26 are in a longitudinal or top-to-bottom attachment arrangement.

[0110] Also within the scope of the present invention is a male-to-female attachment arrangement that does not use a magnetic attachment but instead relies only on the male-female (mechanical) securement. The male member can be a cylindrical post or preferably it can be a bulbous post 280 as shown in FIG. 27 or a bulbous post with an end tip as shown in FIG. 28 at 284. The bulbous post 280 of FIG. 27 fits into the socket 290 whose cross section is shown in FIG. 31 at 294. The bulbous post with tip 284 of FIG. 28 fits into a socket having a cross-sectional configuration as shown in FIG. 32 at 298. The sockets 290 of FIGS. 29-32 are stable sockets. In contrast, the socket 304 of FIGS. 33-35 is a rotational socket, as can be understood from the dotted lines in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 35. [0111] The assembly need not have a connector attachable to the golf club and which is initially a separate piece from the alignment device. Rather, another embodiment of the present invention attaches the alignment device directly to the golf putter or particularly the putter head. An embodiment of this direct attachment is shown in FIGS. 36-38. Referring thereto, the alignment device 310 includes a flat member 320 and a connector piece 330 descending downwardly therefrom and having an adhesive surface 334.

[0112] Instead of adhesive being the means of attaching the flat member 340 of the alignment device 350, a suction cup 354 can be used. An embodiment thereof is shown in FIGS. 39-41. Referring thereto, it is seen that the alignment device 350 includes the flat member 340 and a downwardly-descending connector piece 360 at the end of the member. Secured to this connector piece 360 and extending rearwardly therefrom is the suction cup 354.

[0113] Instead of adhesive or a suction cup, a screw 370 can be used as shown by the embodiment of FIGS. 42-44. It is seen there that similarly there is the flat member 374 of the alignment device 380 and a downwardly-descending connector piece 384 out from which extends a threaded screw shaft 370. The threaded screw shaft 370 is adapted to thread into a threaded opening (not shown) on the putter (head) itself or on a threaded socket (not shown) secured to the putter. The screw embodiment though may require the golfer to bring his putter to a golf shop or to drill a hole in the putter himself, or the putter may be initially manufactured with the (drilled) hole.

[0114] The assembly of FIGS. 45-50 includes a T-shaped member 390 extending out from a member 394 descending down from the flat member 396 at the end of the alignment device 400. This T-shaped member 390 fits into a T-shaped slot 400 in the connector 410 secured to the putter. This provides a snug fit - a puzzle piece type of fit. Shapes other than the T-shape can be used as would be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0115] An alternative type of arrangement for mounting the alignment device to the putter club head is shown in FIGS. 51-56. Referring thereto and particularly to FIGS. 54-56, a rail-like groove 420 is provided on the (putter) connector 430. This groove 420 holds the end of the alignment device 434 in place when inserted therein. The attachment mechanism can be best understood from FIG. 56. The alignment device 434 of FIGS. 51-53 can be simply the flat member 438 (such as previously described) without any downwardly or outwardly extending connector pieces.

[0116] A further alternative method of attaching the alignment device to the putter is to use a bracket or clamp type of attachment. An example thereof is shown in FIGS. 57 and 58. Referring thereto it is seen that the bracket or clamp 450 is attached to the shaft 454 of the putter 110 or more generally to an area of the putter outside of the putter head 104. Another possible bracket attachment is to attach the bracket or clamp directly onto the putter head 104. An arm 460 extending down from the clamp supports the alignment device 464.

[0117] FIGS. 59, 60 and 61 show the back sides of putter heads with alignment device mounting points at three different places 470, 480, 490 along the back of the putter head. The placement of each mounting point and the permanency of the alignment device attachment affect the design of the alignment apparatus. The design may require the apparatus to be jointed as shown by the alignment device 500 of FIGS. 92 and 93 having a joint line 510 in the flat member 520. The jointed (pivoted) arrangement may be needed depending on the placement of the mounting point or for the mobility of a semi-permanent or permanent attachment apparatus. [0118] FIGS. 62-73 show various possible shapes of the alignment device at 520, 524, 528, 532, 536, 540, 544, 548, 552, 556, 560, and 564, respectively. FIG. 63 shows at 524 the tongue-shaped alignment device as used in the designs described in the paragraphs above, and the other figures show alternative shapes. These shapes all have a longitudinal axis inherent therein which can provide the desired putting alignment.

[0119] FIGS. 74-79 represent a common alignment device body with designs shown at 580, 584, 588, 592, 594, 596, and 598, respectively, that have been inked, painted, molded or applied via some other means directly to the alignment device, and a tongue-shaped alignment device is illustrated. This design provides alignment indicators. FIGS. 80-85 represent solid material that has been removed from the body of the alignment device creating "hollow" designs, as illustrated by reference numerals 600, 604, 608, 612, 616, and 620, respectively. FIGS. 86-91 can represent the "applied" designs as in FIGS. 74-79 or the "removed" designs as in FIGS. 80-85. The "designs" are labeled by numerals 630, 634, 638, 642, 646 and 650. As can be seen, the artistic possibilities are numerous and can be anything from solid shapes to stars to flowers to sports team logos and so forth. [0120] Illustrated in FIGS. 94 and 95 is a further alternative of the invention that goes beyond the flat attachment which is primarily put forth in this disclosure. This further alternative can take the form of a wedge-shape alignment device 700 shown connected by connector 704 to a putter head 708 of a putter 712 having a shaft 716. The putter head 708 is shown positioned proximate to a golf ball 720, for example, that enhances not only putt alignment but also lie or slope control during the swing, which is also an important consideration for putt accuracy. In terms of controlling lie the top of the alignment device 700 can be a different color (shading or the like) from the sides thereof, providing a visual means for the golfer to identify a less than optimal swing in the process of hitting the golf ball 720. This alternative adds a three-dimensionality component to the present invention.

[0121] A further embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 96 and 97 generally at 800. Referring thereto a golf putter head is shown generally at 810 including a plate portion 814, a hosel 818 extending up from the plate portion and a mallet body portion 824 having a central channel 830. A hole 834 is drilled or otherwise (pre)formed in the back face 838 of the blade portion. This hole 834 is adapted to receive therein a screw 842 passing through an opening 844 in a flange 846 extending downwardly from a (tongue-shaped) alignment device 850. The alignment device 850 can have generally any of the alignment indicators disclosed anywhere in this disclosure. As can be seen in FIG. 97 the alignment device 850 is mounted on the club head, such as by the user (after purchasing the club head) screwing the screw 842 in through the opening 844 in the flange 846 and into the pre-formed opening 834 in the rear face 838 of the club head. This attachment allows the user to subsequently remove the alignment device 850 by unscrewing the screw 842 such as when the user wants to use his club head without the alignment device or when he wants to replace the alignment device with a different one, for reasons discussed elsewhere in this disclosure.

[0122] FIGS. 98 and 99 show an alternative attachment means wherein the alignment device 860 includes a rearwardly extending tongue or tab 864 having resilient prongs 868 on its upper and lower surfaces. These prongs 868 allow the alignment device 860 when the tab 874 has been inserted into a slot 880 to be subsequently removed therefrom with a firm rearward force. The slot can be preformed and provided by the manufacturer or can be formed by the user. [0123] FIGS. 100 and 101 show generally at 890 an arrangement which includes a combination of the attachments means of FIGS. 96 and 98. [0124] An alternative assembly is shown generally at 900 in FIG. 102 for attaching an alignment device 910 having an alignment indicator. As can be seen there are three alternative ways for attaching the alignment device 910 to the club head 920. First, there is a plurality of holes 924 on the rearward face 928 of the blade portion 932 and nuts 936 secured to the forward bottom surface of the alignment device 910. Screws are then screwed in through the nuts 936 and into the aligned holes 924 to secure the alignment device 910 to the club head 920. Alternatively, one or a plurality of, such as three, holes 960 can be formed through the alignment device and screws 966 then inserted in and threaded through the holes into nuts 970 secured to the club head. These nuts 970 can be secured to the upper surface of the mallet body portion 980 or to the upper surface of the blade portion 932. Three different ways of attaching the alignment device are thus shown in FIG. 102. One, two and/or all three can be provided in the assembly as desired by the user or the manufacturer.

[0125] FIG. 103 shows generally at 1000 an alternative of one of the methods of FIG. 102, namely, an alternative to the method of mounting the alignment device on the top surface of the blade portion. Instead of providing nuts secured to the top face of the putter head (or the bottom surface of the alignment device), a recess 1010 is formed on the top surface 1020 of the blade portion 1026 and holes 1030 are drilled in this surface. The recess 1010 is configured to receive therein the forward end of the alignment device 1040 and then screws 1050 are screwed in through openings 1054 in the alignment device and into the corresponding holes 1030 in the blade portion.

[0126] FIGS. 104-110 illustrate generally at 1090 an alternative assembly of the present invention. Referring thereto, the golf putter head 1100 includes a blade portion 1110 but no integral mallet body portion. The alignment device 1120 is then affixed directly to the blade portion 1110, preferably on the rear face 1130 thereof but alternatively on the top surface 1136 thereof. The alignment device 1120 can act similar to a mallet body portion providing the necessary weighting effect as the golfer may desire. It also can have the alignment indicators thereon, such as illustrated therein by a pair of disks 1140, 1144 or by any of the other indicator means disclosed anywhere in this disclosure.

[0127] Further, the alignment device 1120 can include means for varying the weight of the device and thereby the golf club head to accommodate the individual needs of the golfer. One way of doing this is to include one or more removable and replaceable indicator members (or disks). The alternative indicator member or disks can be of different materials, one heavier than the other; or they can be made of the same material but have different thicknesses (or sizes) to provide the different weights, or a combination thereof. The members can each (or collectively) weigh approximately five-fifty grams. And the entire attachable alignment device can weigh from just a few grams to approximately 250-300 grams.

[0128] FIG. 104 shows an alignment device 1120 being releasably attached by screws or other connectors through-holes 1146 in the face plate or flange 1148 of the alignment device and into the corresponding holes 1150 in the rear face of the blade portion. The end portions 1158 of the alignment device 1120 can also provide a weighting function.

[0129] FIG. 105 shows at 1160 a variation of the embodiment of FIG. 104. It does not have the bottom plate 1164 which the alignment device in FIG. 104 has. [0130] FIG. 106 illustrates generally at 1172 a variation on the embodiments of FIGS. 104 and 105. As can be seen, the alignment device 1176 has upper and lower plates 1180, 1184 but no front plate and the forward ends 1190, 1196 of the two plates then snap in with resilient connectors 1200, 1204 respectively, into corresponding slots 1210, 1214 in the rear face of the putter head 1220. [0131] The assembly 1230 of FIG. 107 includes three alternative weighting insert members 1234, 1238, 1242, which can alternatively be fitted into a recessed holder 1250 in the alignment device 1260. They can be held therein by any suitable means such as a friction fit, mechanical connection, adhesive connection, magnetic connection, screws, hook-and-loop fastener and so forth. The means used to hold them should preferably allow the golfer to easily remove and replace the member (one of 1234, 1238 and 1242) with a replacement member (another of 1234, 1238, and 1242 for example), but still hold the members in place so that they do not become dislodged during the golf swing. The replacement members 1234, 1238, and 1242 as mentioned above can have different weights. They can be made of tungsten, for example, which is a heavy metal. Other metals such as aluminum, steel or stainless steel, or lighter materials such as plastics, can be used. Alternatively, they can have the same (or different) weights but have different indicators on them. The alignment device 1260 in FIG. 107 is shown to be attached with screws or the like through aligned holes 1270, 1280 similar to that shown in FIGS. 104 and 105. Similarly, the alignment device(s) can be made of light materials such as plastics, heavier materials such as aluminum, steel or stainless steel, or even heavier materials such as tungsten.

[0132] This weight-adding/adjustment feature allows the user to customize his putter according to his individual preference(s). Most likely the majority of golfers will select one weight (from several) after they purchase and test the different weight options. Because, with putters more than any other clubs, golfers need and desire consistency. But if they are not making as many putts (taking too many strokes) as they desire, then they have the ability to change the weight (as well as the entire alignment device) to find a better set-up to increase their putting performance, pursuant to the present invention, without purchasing a new putter. [0133] FIG. 108 shows at 1300 a variation on the assemblies of FIGS. 104 and 107. The alignment device 1310 simply can be screwed into holes 1320 in the rear face of the blade portion 1324. A cavity 1330 allows the screws to be accessed for both inserting and removing them. Recesses 1340, 1344 in the top surface of the alignment device 1310 allow for various alternative members 1350, 1354, 1358 to be positioned therein. These members can act as the alignment indicators or can be simply alternative weighting members. FIG. 108 shows three alternative members for the rearmost (or forwardmosf) recess. Each is depicted as having a different thickness and thereby a different weight (assuming they are made of the same material). They can be releasably secured in the openings by a screw 1370 passing up through a hole 1374 in the bottom floor of the recess 1344 (or 1340) as can be understood from FIG. 109.

[0134] FIG. 110 shows a tongue type of alignment device 1390 similar to any of those illustrated in the earlier figures and with replaceable disk members 1394, 1398 secured therein such as by screws or by a snap fit connection or other types of male- female securements or other means. [0135] The manufacturer can make the putter pre-built or pre-fit to accept the alignment indicator. According to this scenario, the manufacturer will not actually attach the alignment device to the putter in the factory. Rather, the customer (golfer) will purchase the alignment device from a retailer, over the internet or from someone other than the manufacturer, and subsequently attach it. (Alternatively, the manufacturer can connect the alignment attachment in his factory.) [0136] FIGS. 111 and 112 illustrate another (or alternative) aspect of the present invention wherein the club head 1410 itself includes on a top surface 1420 of the mallet body portion 1430 and/or blade portion 1440, one or more recesses 1450 for receiving therein various members 1460. These members 1460 can include the alignment indicators and/or they can include various designs. Further, they can be provided for customizing the total weight or the weight distribution of the club head. For example, the members can be replaced with other heavier or lighter members or one or more of the members can simply be omitted. The members can be attached or releasably secured in the recesses, for example, with a screw threaded up through a hole 1470 in the floor of the recess and into the member. Access can be provided to the screw through a cavity 1474 in the mallet body portion 1430. Alternatively, the screw can be threaded down through the disk member into the hole in the floor of the recess. Other means of securing the members in the recesses as disclosed elsewhere in this disclosure or as would be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure are included herein.

[0137] FIG. 111 illustrates a single recess 1450. And the embodiment of FIG. 112 shows two recesses 1460, 1466 for two members 1478, 1482. Preferred dimensions of the insert 1460 of FIG. 111 are 4.5 cm x 8.5 cm x 1/8 cm, and of FIG. 112 are 4.5 cm x four sides for the square (1482), and 4.5 cm x three sides for the triangle (1478). Two or more squares can be used (or other shapes with the approximate dimension constraints of the crown area of a putter). Metals or plastics are the preferred materials for the inserts. Aside from screws, these inserts can be attached with snap on/off (male/female types of connection), or with slide on from rear or front on rail-like connectors by (side) grooves to hold it in place. A preferred embodiment is to have them releasably attached, as opposed to permanently attached. These inserts can be used to vary and customize the weight of the putter head depending on material used and the size/weight of the inserts. Thereby, they can affect the characteristics of the putter once they have been attached. The putter head is designed to be able to accept theses type of weighted/sized inserts. [0138] Many of the attachment means for releasably attaching the alignment device to the club head previously discussed attach the alignment device only at one end to the club head. However, it is also within the scope of the present invention to attach it at more than one end such as at the forward end and the rearward end. Two different ways of doing this are illustrated in FIGS. 113 and 114 at 1500 and 1510, respectively. Referring to those figures, it is seen that the forward end of the alignment device 1520 can be attached in a recess in the top surface 1534 of the blade portion 1538 using screws 1542 or the like. The rearward portion is attached using screws 1544 or other connector members by passing the connector members through a spacer member 1550 positioned between the lower surface of the rearward end of the alignment device 1520 and a top surface of the rearward end of the mallet body portion 1560. These spacer members 1550 preferably can be permanently secured to the top surface of the mallet body portion. In such case, the screw 1544 then does not pass all the way through the spacer member but rather only partially therethrough. Alternatively, the spacer member 1550 can be permanently affixed to the lower surface of the alignment device 1520. In such case, the screw 1544 then would pass through the alignment device, the spacer member and into the mallet body portion. These spacer members 1550 preferably have a pre-formed through-passageway for the screw 1544; and the mallet body portion 1560 has a pre-formed opening for receiving the end of the screw. A further alternative is to have the spacer member 1550 permanently affixed to the mallet body portion and extending up therefrom. The screw then is inserted in through an opening in the alignment device into the connector member. [0139] FIG. 113 shows a single connection at the rear portion of the alignment device 1576. However, it is also within the scope of the invention to have a plurality of connections, such as three connectors spacer members 1570, 1572, 1574 (and screws 1580, 1582, 1584) as shown in FIG. 114.

[0140] Instead of having these spacer members, the mallet body portion 1600 can be configured to have an upwardly extending or curving rear portion 1610. An example of this is shown in FIGS. 115-117 generally at 1620. The alignment device 1630 is secured to a top (or other) surface of the upwardly-extending rear portion 1610 and also to the blade portion 1634. The mallet body portion 1640 can alternatively be configured as shown in FIGS. 117 and 118 with an upwardly curving and expanding configuration and with a tongue shape. (Alternatively, the mallet putter can be designed and manufactured without an "upwardly extending rear section" but be provided with or include an attachment means to a relatively flat mallet body.)

[0141] Thus, disclosed herein is a putter alignment device attachable to the club head of a putter. By this means, the alignment device can be attached to the putter, but in some instances the alignment device can be directly connected by means of adhesive or other direct connection. The point of attachment, depending on the placement of the alignment connector or the lack thereof, can be on top of, behind, on the side or underneath the putter head. Also it is within the scope of the invention for the attachment of the alignment device to be connected to the putter shaft. [0142] This putter alignment device assists the golfer in aiming a golf ball towards a hole during putting, as can be understood from FIG. 2A. The alignment attachment indicators (that is, images on the alignment device) can be circles, hemispheres or complete hemispheres, groups of lines, solid color, transparent, multiple colors, drawings, letters, pictures, images, stickers, three-dimensional objects or any combination thereof. For example, the alignment attachment device can be one or more circles, an image of a missile, bowling balls, the words "drain it," the famous yellow smiley face, arrows, flowers, a picture of the golfer's children, a three-dimensional snake, a logo of the golfer's favorite sports teams and so forth. The standard position of the indicators will be along a line extending rearward from the center of impact of the golf putter head.

[0143] The alignment device can be releasably or permanently secured to the golf putter using a separate connector member, as previously described. This connector can be attached to the putter head by adhesive material already on the connector according to a simple design of the connector. After the connector is attached it will not be easily adjustable, unless removed and placed on another location on the putter. Once the connector is placed securely on the putter, the alignment device can be attached to the putter.

[0144] Some of the connectors and alignment attachments pursuant to this invention can be adjustable. First, with multiple points a possible attachment location to the putter head and after initial attachment, some of the alignment devices can be raised or lowered or manipulated in other ways on the putter to best suit the golfer for different putting situations or personal preference. [0145] The alignment device can be removable from the putter. That is, the golfer may choose to leave the alignment device attached or may choose to remove it. Additionally, the alignment device may be interchangeable with other putter alignment devices. The golfer may choose to use them interchangeably due to environmental factors, weather conditions or personal choices or moods or to communicate a message, such as his emotional state. The alignment devices can also be collectibles. Further, the alignment devices can be custom made and also serve other purposes than aligning putts.

[0146] The present invention pursuant to many embodiments thereof allows the user to make use of his current putter or virtually any other putter to provide improved putter alignment without necessarily altering the weighting or feel of that putter. Because the golfer does not need to purchase a new putter, the alignment device or assembly of the present invention is simultaneously both economical and beneficial to the golf game. The attachment would likely be less expensive than purchasing a new putter with alignment aids designed into the putter. However, it is also within the scope of the invention to manufacture the alignment devices or their attachments into the golf putter. The simple designs of the present alignment devices make them economical, easy to attach and easy to use. [0147] The putter connector and putter alignment devices can be manufactured by various methods using many different materials. One preferred embodiment is to make them out of one or more polymer (plastic) materials. Alternatively, metals such as aluminum, silver, gold, platinum or stainless steel can be used. Additionally, the putter alignment devices can be made of natural materials such as wood, including wood products and paper products. Furthermore, the alignment devices can be made from a combination of the above-mentioned materials. [0148] The (putter) connector as well as the alignment device itself can be manufactured by many different methods. For example, they can be made by making a mold and mass producing copies or utilizing some type of stamping mechanism to form each individual piece. Additionally, they can be manufactured in "sheets" of the chosen material and later separated into individual alignment devices and/or connectors. They can also be handmade. And the adhesive material can be applied or attached to either the connector or directly to the alignment device for the purpose of attaching to the putter according to some of the embodiments that are discussed above. For example, the putter connector can make use of dual-sided sticky foam sheets. One side will be attached to the putter connector, or directly to the putter alignment device, and the other side will have a protective cover that will need to be removed before placing on the putter. Another manufacturing process/way is to use "CNC Milling," wherein the attachment is milled from one solid piece of metal.

[0149] Pursuant to a basic form of the present invention, it can be broken down into an alignment apparatus and the putter head to which it attaches. Typically it attaches to the putter in and around the region of the putter head. [0150] The alignment apparatus or device can be manufactured to be "zero" to many pieces. When it is "zero" pieces the putter is designed by its manufacturer, the golfer and/or other individual to accept the present invention as a semi-permanent metal (or otherwise) insert or attachment. Alternatively, the putter can be retooled by a golf shop to accept the present invention as a semi-permanent insert or attachment. When it is a manufactured as a single piece, the apparatus is attached as a single piece via suction, adhesive, screw or other means to the putter. When it is manufactured as two pieces, a mount unit or a connector is attached to the putter. The present alignment device then connects directly onto this mount or connector via a snap mechanism or some other method as described herein. When it is made of many pieces, one or more combinations of attaching multiple pieces to a mounting unit or to the alignment apparatus are used.

[0151] Pursuant to another embodiment, a manufacturer may build a putter with the alignment device or a connector pre-attached as part of the manufacturing process. From the golfer's perspective the putter head may look "normal" without the present attachment, although the putter would be capable of accepting the attachment per manufactured specs or standards (while not having a more generic attaching mechanism being used, although that may be possible). In other words, the putter manufacturers can manufacture the putters in their factories pre-fit to accept some form of the alignment device of this invention. [0152] The placement of the weighting on the apparatus can vary. The present invention also includes the process and system of adding attachments to a putter head which affect the handling and weighting of the putter. This gives the golfer, manufacturer and/or other individual the ability to independently customize the feel of his putter to the best feel and individual performance.

[0153] The length, width and depth as well as the weight of the alignment device can be varied. The composition of the alignment device and mounting unit can be varied as can the weight of the material used. Further, the attaching or mounting points upon the putter can vary. Typically, the device attaches to the putter via the back portion of the putter head, as opposed to the putter head face which typically strikes the ball. However it is within the scope of the invention to position the attachment point at other various positions which include but are not limited to the top of the putter head, the bottom of the putter head and even the shaft of the putter. Further, the attachment can be designed so that it extends over the front/face of the putter and extends up to and past the golf ball that is being hit. [0154] Many different designs of the alignment device or apparatus of this invention are possible including its size as well as its shape; for example, the apparatus can have a tapered shape. The device can be basically flat or three- dimensional. When viewed from the top, it can take many forms of simple to complex in nature, be of various combinations of colors and/or sizes and can depict one or more artful entities. The apparatus can depict hollow designs, for example, two circles physically punched out or removed from the apparatus. Still further designs provide for recesses on the top portion of the alignment device that allow one to interchange the design on top of the apparatus. The change can be permanent or semi permanent. A further design variation is a lollypop design that looks like a stem with a sphere at the end of it.

[0155] The present invention thus has many advantages, including the following. It can work with blade, mallet, and oversize mallet putters. It can transform blade putters that inherently and by definition have very little alignment indicia into putters that are just as good, if not better, than any oversize mallet style putter. It is an infinitely variable attachment - size, shape, weight (ability to change center-of- gravity, balance, etc) and connection points. It gives the power of oversize alignment indicia to a category of putters that never had them before. It has the ability to add on this feature both during and after the manufacturing process. It will work on almost any putter currently on the market, and can be a temporary or semipermanent attachment. It has the ability to connect to a putter in a variety of ways, such as with magnets, screws, or male-female connectors. It can be three dimensional. It can permanently equalize the one fundamental advantage that oversize putters had over blade putters. Oversize putters have recently attracted a great number golfers due to their relatively large and clear alignment features. With the alignment attachment of this invention all putters can now have all the advantages of the large alignment indicia of mallet putters, but in addition, golfers no longer need to sacrifice the feel and control of the blade type putters. A variety of alignment indicia gives the golfers a choice to select the alignment indicia (or more than one) that fit their game at any given moment.

[0156] With the present invention golfers can increase their ability to better align their putts therefore increasing putting accuracy and doing so using a putter with alignment indicators of their choice. Golfers can change and adjust both the alignment indicia and weight of the attachment to suit their game at any given moment. This advance in personalization and customization of the putter to the golfer's game and not the golfer to the putter can increase both the success of golfers of all level and at the same time make the game more enjoyable. [0157] Even the best players face difficulties when lining up their putts, and the current mallet putters with static alignment indicia assist them. But many of these putters look blockish, oversized, awkward and overall unpleasant to the eye at set up.

[0158] The present invention combines the alignment benefits with the ability to select from an almost limitless possible alignment indicia. Shapes, lines, colors, circles, 3-D, words, pictures, logos, etc. are some of the choices. Thus, more visual appeal and personalization are virtually unlimited with this invention. The golfer can select from different weighted alignment attachments and even have attachments that have the ability to change the weight of the club head. Golfers can have a choice in putters that have improved weighting, face-balanced (if preferred) and the feel and control they want, in addition to one or more type of alignment indicators that they can change based what they feel most benefits them in any give situation. [0159] This invention transforms virtually any putter into a very accurate tool for any golfer. It is an attachable (and detachable) alignment device that will attach to current putters.

[0160] Another version is a permanent/semi-permanent putter alignment device attachment that can be connected to the putter by the manufacturer or by the golfer. These putters can be pre-built/pre-fit to accept the various alignment indicators. Once attached it can be kept on throughout the round as to keep within the rules of the game of golf, and with the following advantages: one piece feel; increased alignment ease without loss of feel or control; unlimited choices as to the alignment indicia a user can choose or create; and personalization where none was offered before.

[0161] Blade-type putters have unmatched feel and control. But one drawback that until recently was not even recognized by most was their lack of alignment that sufficiently aided the golfer or met with most golfer's satisfaction. Recently mallet style putters have gained tremendous popularity. Due to their larger head size, there can be placed on mallet putters substantial alignment indicia to increase the ease of alignment putts and therefore reduce the number of strokes taken on the putting green. This has not come without a price. Loss of feel and control, especially with longer and more difficult lies, are the most complained about. Furthermore, the larger size and awkward look of many of these mallet putters have displeased many golfers. In addition, there was no choice of alignment indicia for the golfer. If they did not like a putter's indicia but liked the feel, they had to either live with their dissatisfaction of the looks of the alignment indicia on the top of the putter or switch to another putter, with a totally different feel, but more pleasing alignment indicia. With the present invention this no longer has to be the case. Golfers can choose the type of putter - blade, mallet, etc. - with all the characteristics that they prefer and couple it with one or alignment indicia that best suit their game or mood at any time. [0162] The present invention allows golfers who prefer mallet style putters to select both the alignment indicia that best fits them as to opposed to one style fits all, with current manufacturers. A variety of differently weighted alignment attachments along with attachment with adjustable weighting can be provided pursuant to this invention. Golfers can have a truly customized putter that will be "dialed-in" to the best set-up to their individual games as possible. [0163] This invention provides countless options (with alignment indicia design, weight, etc) to the widest range of golfers with their varied preferences. Mallet to blade style putters can all benefit from the addition of the attachable alignment indicators. Design, weight and other variables can be as countless as there are golfers. This will allow the offering to nearly all golfers their preferred embodiment of this invention. Even unique, custom alignment indicators will be possible, giving golfers something that they have been offered in the past.

[0164] Further, the alignment attachment device of this invention can also have "attachments," and some embodiments can be adjusted (weight, length, indicia, etc.) [0165] Some of the benefits of this invention are summarized below: (1) The alignment indicators can be available in a wide variety of styles and variations to allow each golfer to choose the alignment indicia best suited for their golf game at any given moment. (2) Alignment indicia (device/indicator) are removable and/or re- attachable (both individual alignment indicia or the entire alignment device). (3) Alignment indicia (device/indicator) are interchangeable with other alignment indicia (only one indicia possible vs. unlimited alignment indicia designs with our invention). That is, the alignment device/indicators can be interchangeable. They can be universally interchangeable between/among different manufacturers, or a manufacturer can limit the interchangeability to only its line of putters, or a manufacturer can further limit the interchangeability amongst its own putter product lines and even within specific individual putter models. For example, they may only make five different designs for a certain putter, but those alignment attachment device/indicators may not fit other models of putters they may have. They may do this for any of a number of reasons. One reason is to encourage the customer to purchase the other model putter, if that putter has alignment indicia that his current putter does not offer. Another reason is that the other putter design allows the alignment indicia to have more options such as design and weight. (4) Alignment indicia (device/indicator) have the option of being weighted or weight adjustable. [0166] From the foregoing detailed description, it will be evident that there are a number of changes, adaptations and modifications of the present invention which come within the province of those skilled in the art. The scope of the invention includes any combination of the elements from the different species or embodiments disclosed herein, as well as subassemblies, assemblies, and methods thereof. However, it is intended that all such variations not departing from the spirit of the invention be considered as within the scope thererof.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A golf putter alignment attachment assembly, comprising: an alignment device; the alignment device including an alignment indicator; and the alignment device is attachable to a putter in an attached position such that the indicator and thereby the putter can be oriented relative to a golf ball by a golfer to assist the golfer in aiming the ball towards a golf hole during putting.

2. The assembly of claim 1 further comprising a putter connector securable to the putter, and the alignment device being attachable to the putter connector so as to thereby be in the attached position.

3. The assembly of claim 2 wherein the putter connector is securable to the putter with adhesive material.

4. The assembly of claim 2 wherein the putter connector includes a nut.

5. The assembly of claim 2 wherein the alignment device is releasable from the connector and reattachable thereto.

6. The assembly of claim 2 wherein the connector defines a first connector, the alignment device includes a second connector and the second connector is connected to the first connector with the alignment device in the attached position.

7. The assembly of claim 2 wherein the putter connector is manufactured onto the putter head of the putter.

8. The assembly of claim 1 wherein with the alignment device in the attached position, the indicator is oriented on and disposed along a line extending rearward from a golf ball impact center of a putter head of the putter.

9. The assembly of claim 1 wherein when the alignment device is in the attached position, the point of attachment of the alignment device is on top of a club head of the putter.

10. The assembly of claim 1 wherein when the alignment device is in the attached position, the point of attachment of the alignment device is on a backside of a club head of the putter.

11. The assembly of claim 1 wherein when the alignment device is in the attached position, the point of attachment of the alignment device is on a side of a club head of the putter.

12. The assembly of claim 1 wherein when the alignment device is in the attached position, the point of attachment of the alignment device is on a bottom surface of a club head of the putter.

13. The assembly of claim 1 wherein when the alignment device is in the attached position, the point of attachment of the alignment device is on a shaft of the putter.

14. The assembly of claim 1 wherein the alignment indicator defines an alignment line, and with the alignment device in the attached position, the alignment line is perpendicular to a ball striking face of a club head of the putter.

15. The assembly of claim 1 further comprising retail packaging holding the alignment device, the packaging being separate from the putter.

16. The assembly of claim 15 further comprising a putter connector held in the packaging.

17. The assembly of claim 16 wherein the putter connector is securable to the putter, and the alignment device is attachable to the putter connector and thereby in the attached position.

18. The assembly of claim 17 wherein the alignment device includes a connector for the putter connector.

19. The assembly of claim 1 further comprising attaching means for attaching the alignment device in the attached position to the putter.

20. The assembly of claim 19 wherein the attaching means includes a magnet.

21. The assembly of claim 20 wherein the magnet is attached to the alignment device, and the attaching means further includes a metal connector attachable to the putter and adapted to magnetically adhere the magnet such that the alignment device is in the attached position.

22. The assembly of claim 19 wherein the attaching means includes a tongue- and-groove arrangement.

23. The assembly of claim 19 wherein the attaching means includes a plurality of screws.

24. The assembly of claim 19 wherein the attaching means includes a screw.

25. The assembly of claim 19 wherein the attaching means includes an angled post disposable in an angled slot such that the alignment device is in the attached position.

26. The assembly of claim 19 wherein the attaching means includes a slide mount mountable to the putter and adapted to receive therein an end of the alignment device.

27. The assembly of claim 19 wherein the attaching means attaches the alignment device to a shaft of the putter.

28. The assembly of claim 19 wherein the attaching means includes a first , attaching means for attaching the alignment device in a first attached position to the putter and an alternative second attaching means for attaching an alternative second alignment device in a different alternative second position to the putter.

29. The assembly of claim 19 wherein the attaching means allows for the attachment of the alignment device in alternative locations on the putter as selected by the golfer.

30. The assembly of claim 19 wherein the attaching means includes a putter connector member attached to the putter and to which the alignment device is releasably securable.

31. The assembly of claim 1 wherein the alignment indicator includes alignment indicia.

32. The assembly of claim 1 wherein the alignment indicator includes the shape of the alignment device.

33. The assembly of claim 1 wherein the alignment indicator is oriented longitudinally on the alignment device.

34. The assembly of claim 1 wherein at least a portion of the alignment indicator is removable from the alignment device.

35. The assembly of claim 1 wherein the alignment device includes a plate member which when in the attached position extends out from a club head of the putter and disposed perpendicular to the face of the club head.

36. The assembly of claim 35 wherein the plate member is approximately 3% inches long, 1³Λ inches wide and 3/16 inch deep, for example.

37. The assembly of claim 1 wherein the alignment device has a wedge shape with first and second angled surfaces.

38. The assembly of claim 37 wherein the first and second angled surfaces have different colors.

39. A golf putter alignment attachment assembly, comprising: an alignment device; and attaching means for attaching the alignment device to a putter in an attached alignment position such that the alignment device assists a golfer in orienting the golfer's putter relative to a golf ball to assist in aiming the ball during putting.

40. The assembly of claim 39 wherein the attaching means includes at least one screw.

41. The assembly of claim 39 wherein the attaching means is a magnetic attaching means.

42. The assembly of claim 39 wherein the attaching means is a male-female connection.

43. The assembly of claim 39 wherein the attaching means allows the golfer to attach the alignment device to the putter.

44. The assembly of claim 39 wherein the attaching means is a releasable attaching means such that the golfer can remove the alignment device from the putter after attaching it thereto.

45. The assembly of claim 39 wherein the attaching means includes a connector which is attached to the putter and to which the alignment device is attached when in the attached position.

46. The assembly of claim 45 wherein the connector defines a first connector and the alignment device includes a second connector which is connected to the first connector when the alignment device is in the attached alignment position.

47. The assembly of claim 46 wherein the alignment device includes a top flat piece and the second connector is secured to a lower surface of the top flat piece.

48. The assembly of claim 1 wherein the alignment device includes a top flat piece and the connector is secured to a lower surface of the top flat piece.

49. The assembly of claim 48 wherein the alignment device has an alignment axis to assist the golfer in visually aligning the putter.

50. The assembly of claim 49 wherein the alignment axis is a central longitudinal axis of the alignment device.

51. The assembly of claim 50 wherein in a plan view the alignment device is symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis.

52. The assembly of claim 49 wherein the alignment axis is defined at least in part by the shape of the alignment device.

53. The assembly of claim 49 wherein the alignment device has a tongue shape.

54. The assembly of claim 49 wherein the alignment axis is defined at least in part by an indicator on the alignment device.

55. A golf putter assembly including a golf putter having a shaft and a club head, the improvement comprising: an alignment device removably attachable to the club head in an attached alignment position such that the alignment device assists the golfer in orienting the putter relative to a golf ball to assist in aiming the ball during putting.

56. The assembly of claim 55 wherein the alignment device includes a flat surface, the alignment device when in the attached alignment position includes the flat surface extending outwardly from the club head and generally perpendicular to the club head face.

57. The assembly of claim 55 further comprising a first connector attachable to the putter, the alignment device including a second connector, and the first and second connectors being connected together when the alignment device is in the attached alignment position.

58. The assembly of claim 55 wherein the alignment device defines a ball alignment axis.

59. The assembly of claim 58 wherein the alignment axis is defined at least in part by the shape of the alignment device.

60. The assembly of claim 58 wherein the alignment device includes a top surface alignment indicator, and the alignment axis is defined at least in part by the alignment indicator.

61. The assembly of claim 55 wherein the alignment device is removably attachable to the putter by a manufacturer of the golf putter.

62. The assembly of claim 55 wherein the alignment device is removably attachable to the putter by the golfer.

63. The assembly of claim 62 wherein the putter when obtained by the golfer and before the alignment device is attached, is pre-built or pre-fit to accept the alignment device when attached thereto by the golfer.

64. A putting method, comprising: attaching an alignment assembly to a putter club head in an attached alignment position and orientation; and with the device in the attached alignment position and orientation and visually using an alignment indicator of the assembly, orienting the putter relative to a golf ball to assist a golfer in aiming the ball toward a golf hole during putting.

65. The method of claim 64 wherein the attaching includes attaching the alignment assembly to a top surface of the club head.

66. The method of claim 64 wherein the attaching includes attaching the alignment assembly to a rearwardly disposed face of a club head of the putter.

67. The method of claim 64 further comprising removing the alignment assembly from the putter.

68. The method of claim 67 wherein the alignment assembly defines a first alignment assembly, and further comprising after the removing, attaching a second alignment assembly to the putter.

69. The method of claim 64 wherein the device, when in the attached alignment position and orientation, extends out from the club head and is disposed perpendicular to the face of the club head.

70. The method of claim 64 wherein the attaching includes attaching the alignment assembly to the club head such that the alignment assembly extends rearwardly from a blade portion of the club head.

71. A putting alignment attachment assembly, comprising: an alignment device; alignment indicator supported by the device; and attaching means for attaching the alignment device to a club head of a putter such that the indicator and thereby the putter can be visually oriented relative to a golf ball by a golfer to assist the golfer in aiming the golfer's putt and for allowing the alignment device to be subsequently detached from the club head.

72. The assembly of claim 71 wherein the attaching means includes a tongue extending forwardly from the alignment device and adapted to fit into and be held in a slot on a rear face of the club head.

73. The assembly of claim 71 wherein the attaching means removably attaches the alignment device to a rear face of a blade portion of the club head.

74. The assembly of claim 73 wherein the attaching means includes a screw adapted to screw the alignment device to the rear face.

75. The assembly of claim 74 wherein the attaching means includes at least one nut into which the screw threads.

76. The assembly of claim 74 wherein the alignment device includes a forward downwardly-depending flange having an opening for receiving the screw therein.

77. The assembly of claim 74 wherein the screw is adapted to screw into a preformed screw hole in the rear face.

78. The assembly of claim 71 wherein the attaching means attaches the alignment device to a blade portion of the club head such that the alignment device extends rearwardly over a mallet body portion of the club head.

79. The assembly of claim 71 wherein the attaching means attaches the alignment device to a blade portion of the club head such that the alignment device extends rearwardly over an upper channel of a mallet body portion of the club head.

80. The assembly of claim 71 wherein the attaching means attaches the alignment device on and to a recess on a top surface of the club head.

81. The assembly of claim 80 wherein the top surface is on a blade portion of the club head.

82. The assembly of claim 71 wherein the alignment device includes a forward surface, and the attaching means attaches the forward surface to a rearward surface of the club head.

83. The assembly of claim 82 wherein the forward surface is on a front plate of the alignment device.

84. The assembly of claim 83 wherein the alignment device includes a top plate and the front plate is secured to and extends downwardly from the top plate.

85. The assembly of claim 84 wherein the alignment device includes a bottom plate and the front plate is secured to and extends downwardly from the bottom plate.

86. The assembly of claim 82 wherein the rearward surface is a rearward surface of a blade portion of the club head.

87. The assembly of claim 71 wherein the attaching means includes a plurality of screws.

88. The assembly of claim 71 wherein the attaching means includes first attaching means for attaching a forward portion of the alignment device to a blade portion of the club head and second attaching means for attaching a rearward portion of the alignment device to a mallet body portion of the club head.

89. The assembly of claim 88 wherein the second attaching means includes a spacer member which spaces the rearward portion above the mallet body portion.

90. The assembly of claim 89 wherein the second attaching means includes a connector which passes through the rearward portion, the spacer member and into the mallet body portion.

91. The assembly of claim 90 wherein the connector is a screw.

92. The assembly of claim 89 wherein the spacer member defines a first spacer member, and the second attaching means includes a second spacer member.

93. The assembly of claim 88 wherein the first attaching means attaches a bottom surface of the forward portion to a top surface of the blade portion.

94. The assembly of claim 88 wherein a rearward portion of the mallet body portion is higher than a forward portion of the mallet body portion, and the second attaching means attaches the rearward portion of the alignment device to the rearward portion of the mallet body portion.

95. The assembly of claim 94 wherein the attaching means attaches the alignment device such that the alignment device extends over the forward portion of the mallet body portion.

96. The assembly of claim 94 wherein the rearward portion of the mallet body potion has an opening, and the second attaching means includes a connector member for passing through the rearward portion of the alignment device into the opening.

97. The assembly of claim 95 wherein the connector member is a screw.

98. The assembly of claim 71 wherein the alignment device includes a receiving area, and the indicator includes an indicator member releasably attachable to the receiving area and a different alternative indicator member releasably attachable to the receiving area with the indicator member removed from the receiving area.

99. The assembly of claim 98 wherein the receiving area includes a recess and the indicator member and the alternative indicator members are both configured to fit in the recess.

100. The assembly of claim 98 wherein the alternative indicator member is heavier or lighter than the indicator member to provide a different weighting effect on the club head.

101. The assembly of claim 100 wherein the alternative indicator member or the indicator member plus the alternative indicator member weigh approximately five to fifty grams.

102. The assembly of claim 100 wherein the indicator includes screw means for alternatively attaching the alternative indicator member or the indicator member to the receiving area.

103. The assembly of claim 100 wherein the indicator member is made of a first material and the alternative indicator member is made of a second material heavier or lighter than the first material.

104. The assembly of claim 100 wherein the indicator member has a first thickness and the alternative indicator member has a second thickness different than the first thickness and thereby has a different weight.

105. The assembly of claim 71 wherein the alignment device includes a recess and the indicator includes a first indicator member and a second indicator member, the first and second indicator members being alternatively attachable in the recess.

106. The assembly of claim 105 wherein the first and second indicator members have different indicators thereon.

107. The assembly of claim 105 wherein the first and second indicator members have different weights providing for different club head weighting effects.

108. The assembly of claim 71 wherein the attaching means includes a forward edge of the alignment device adapted to be snap-fit attached in a rearwardly disposed slot of the club head.

109. The assembly of claim 108 wherein the forward edge defines a first forward edge and the slot defines a first slot, and the attaching means includes a second forward edge of the alignment device adapted to be snap fit attached in a rearwardly disposed second slot of the club head.

110. The assembly of claim 71 wherein the attaching means includes a tongue extending forwardly from the alignment device and adapted to fit into and be held in a slot on a rear face of the club head.

111. The assembly of claim 71 wherein at least a portion of the indicator is removable from the alignment device for replacement purposes.

112. The assembly of claim 71 wherein a first portion of the indicator is removable from the alignment device and a second portion of the indicator is separately removable from the alignment device.

113. The assembly of claim 112 wherein the first portion is a first disc.

114. The assembly of claim 113 wherein the second portion is a second disc.

115. The assembly of claim 71 wherein the assembly weighs between a few grams and approximately 250-300 grams.

116. A golf putter head, comprising: a blade portion; a mallet body portion extending rearwardly from the blade portion; and a recessed receiving area on an upper surface of at least one of the blade portion and the mallet body portion.

117. The golf putter head of claim 116 further comprising a member positionable in the recess area.

118. The golf putter head of claim 117 wherein the member is metal or plastic.

119. The golf putter head of claim 117 wherein the member has identifier indicia on a top surface thereof.

120. The golf putter head of claim 117 wherein the member has putter-golf ball alignment indicia thereon.

121. The golf putter head of claim 117 wherein the member has an identifier indicia shape.

122. The golf putter head of claim 117 wherein the member has a putter-ball alignment shape.

123. The golf putter head of claim 117 further comprising attaching means for releasably attaching the member in the receiving area.

124. The golf putter head of claim 123 wherein the attaching means includes a screw.

125. The golf putter head of claim 121 wherein the mallet body portion includes a hollow area providing access to screw the screw up into the recessed area and into the member.

126. The golf putter head of claim 123 wherein the attaching means includes a male-female connection.

127. The golf putter head of claim 123 wherein the attaching means includes a sliding rail-groove connection.

128. The golf putter head of claim 116 further comprising the recessed receiving area defining a first recessed receiving area, and a second recessed receiving area on an upper surface of the mallet body portion and proximate to the first recessed area.

129. The golf putter head of claim 128 wherein the first receiving area is adapted to receive therein a first member of a first shape and the second receiving area is adapted to receive therein a second member of a different second shape.

130. The golf putter head of claim 129 wherein the first member is a square having side lengths of approximately 4.5 centimeters and the second member is an equilateral triangle having side lengths of approximately 4.5 centimeters.

131. The golf putter head of claim 129 wherein the first and second members both have thicknesses of approximately 1/8 centimeter.

132. The golf putter head of claim 128 wherein the first and second recessed receiving areas are aligned in a line perpendicular to a putting face of the blade portion.

133. The golf putter head of claim 116 further comprising a hosel extending up from the blade portion.

134. The golf putter head of claim 116 further comprising a hosel extending up from the mallet body portion.

135. The golf putter head of claim 116 wherein the blade portion and the mallet body portion are formed as a single unitary member.