WO2008074093A1

WO2008074093A1 - An alignment device and a golf club including the alignment device

Info

Publication number: WO2008074093A1
Application number: PCT/AU2007/001993
Authority: WO
Inventors: Christopher Pierias
Original assignee: Christopher Pierias
Priority date: 2006-12-21
Filing date: 2007-12-21
Publication date: 2008-06-26

Abstract

The present invention relates to an alignment device that can be attached to or incorporated into the head of a golf club such as a putter. The device includes a body having a substantially transparent or translucent portion and two alignment markers that are spatially separated and connected to, or defined on, the body. In use, one of the markers will be a nearer marker and the other marker a further marker whereby the relative positions or parallax between the markers can be observed by a golfer to repeatedly position their head over the device at address prior to striking a golf ball.

Description

AN ALIGNMENT DEVICE AND A GOLF CLUB INCLUDING THE

ALIGNMENT DEVICE

FIELD OF THE PRESENT INVENTION The present invention relates to a golf club alignment device or aid that can be retrofitted to the head of a pre-existing golf club or alternatively, releasably or permanently attached to a golf club purposely manufacture for the device. The present invention therefore also relates to a golf club, such as a putter, fitted with the alignment device.

BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

In order to hit a golf ball in a direction toward the intended target there are a many factors that effect the flight of a golf ball including: the golfer' s grip of the club, the golfer's alignment of the club head and the biomechanics of an individual's swing, the design and loft of the club head, stiffness of the shaft of the golf club and the properties of the ball being struck. In addition, it has long been recognised by professional and amateur golfers alike that the initial stance or approach position of the golfer immediately prior to the beginning of the golf swing is an important factor in being able to repeatedly achieve the intended result.

The stance or approach position of a golfer comprises a number of elements including leg flex, arm flex, spine flex, and feet position relative to the ball. Both of these elements are to a large extent determined by the position of the golfer's head relative to the golf club head immediately prior to commencing the golf swing.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a device that can help the golfer to repeatedly place their head in the same position to minimise unintentional variations in the stance or approach position.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to the present invention there is provided an alignment device that can be attached to or incorporated into the head of a golf club, the device including: i) at least one body having a substantially transparent or translucent portion; and ii) two or more alignment markers that are spatially separated and wherein either, a) two or more of the markers are connected to, or defined on, one of said bodies, or b) each alignment marker is connected to, or defined on, separate respective bodies, and wherein when the device is attached to, or incorporated into the head of the golf club, one of the markers will be a nearer marker and the other marker will be a further marker, and the relative positions or parallax between the nearer and further markers can be observed by a golfer to help position their head relative to the device when in a stance or approach position.

An advantage of the present invention is that a golfer can repeatedly locate their head relative to the club by noting and comparing the relative positions of the nearer and further markers prior to striking the golf ball. Being able to accurately locating their head in the same position provides assurance and confidence when taking a stance or approach position before striking the ball.

According to an embodiment the device comprises two or more than two bodies, and the bodies are in the form of layers of which two have either one of the nearer or further markers. The device may also include layers without alignment markers that are positioned above, below, or intermediate layers having the nearer or further markers. The layers may be in a stack relation in a laminated structure without spacings or have an inner hollow region. For example, in the situation in which the body comprises three layers, namely an upper layer, a inner layer and a bottom layer, and the nearer marker may be disposed between the upper and inner layers and the further marker may be disposed between the inner and bottom layers. According to another embodiment, the nearer and further markers are located in opposite outside faces of the body.

According to another embodiment in which the device comprises two or more bodies in the form of layers, one or more of the layers are separated by a spacing. The spacing may be an open spacing defined by a region between the layers from which a solid transparent material is absent, or a closed spacing between the layers defined by an enclosed chamber having a hollow inner region. According to another embodiment, the nearer and further markers may be disposed between layers.

According to another embodiment in which the device comprises a single body the nearer and further markers are embedded in the body. For example, the nearer and further markers are in the form of elongated members such as rods, and opening or holes are formed through the body and the markers located in the body.

Although it is possible that the nearer and further markers may include curved shapes or surfaces, in an embodiment the markers include at least one linear section, and suitably two linear sections that are substantially perpendicular. The linear sections may be regarded as forming X and Y axes of a Cartesian plan. In this situation a Z-axis extends perpendicular to the plan defined by the X and Y axis.

Irrespective of the shape of the markers, when the device is fitted to the club head it is preferred that the nearer and further markers including substantially first linear portions that extend laterally to the striking surface of the club. Observing the relative positions of the first linear portions of the nearer and further markers thereby provides a reference of the user's head in a direction from the heel to the toe of the club i.e., in a direction substantially parallel to the striking surface of the golf club.

It is also preferred that the nearer and further markers include second linear portions that extend substantially parallel to the striking face of the club or substantially lateral to the first linear portions. Observing the relative positions of the second linear portions of the nearer and further markers provides a reference of the user' s head in a direction between a striking surface of a golf club and back of the club.

When in use, differences in perceived position of the alignment markers is the result of parallax, wherein the point from which the device is observed determines, for example, that the size of spacings and/or the degree of overlap between the alignment markers. In the situation where the device is observed from a position that is in alignment with the direction in which the markers face, for example, along the Z-axis of the device, it is preferred that markers be in registration with one another so as to minimise the spacing between the markers, or minimise the degree of overlap between the markers. In the situation where the device is observed from a position lateral to the direction in which the markers face, for example, at a spacing to the Z-axis, it is preferred that the markers be offset with one another. The degree to which the markers are offset can be adjusted by the golfer moving their head and adjusting their stance position such that their head coincides with the position required to minimise the size of the spacing and/or degree of overlap between the markers.

Throughout this specification references to the nearer and further markers being in registration means either one or a combination of the parallax between the markers is minimised, the apparent displacement between the markers is minimised or the markers appear to interfit, overlap or are aligned in an offset manner.

In an embodiment, both the nearer and further markers can be observed when the markers are either in registration or out of registration.

In another embodiment, the nearer marker is defined by a transparent or translucent portion in the body and the further marker is prevented from being displayed through the transparent portion when the parallax between the nearer and further markers exceeds a preset amount or are out of registration, and the further marker is displayed when the degree of parallax between the nearer and further markers is reduced so as to bring the nearer and further markers into at least partial registration. In other words, in the situation in which the nearer and further markers are out of registration, the further marker will not be displayed, and the further marker will only be displayed and observed by the golfer by moving their head, and indeed when the nearer and further markers are to some degree in registration.

In another embodiment, both the nearer and further markers are displayed when the markers are out of registration, and only the nearer marker is displayed when the nearer and further markers in registration. In other words, the nearer marker overlaps and obscures from view the further marker or prevents the further marker from being displayed when the nearer and further markers are in registration.

In an embodiment the nearer and further markers have complimenting shapes.

In another embodiment, the nearer and further markers have the same or substantially the same shape with the nearer marker being smaller than the further marker. For instance, in the situation where the markers include a circle, it is preferred that the circle of the further marker be larger in diameter than the diameter of the circle of the nearer marker. In the situations where the markers include a band or linear section, it is preferred that the equivalent band or linear section of the further marker be broader than the band or linear section of the nearer marker.

In an embodiment, the nearer marker and further marker are of different sizes so that one marker at least partially fits within the other marker. For example: • The nearer marker is in the form of a I-shape and the further marker is in the form of a pair of parallel lines, whereby the vertical section of I-shape of the nearer mark fits at least partially fits between the parallel line when in registration. In another example, the further marker may be in the form of the I- shape and the nearer marker in the form of the pair of parallel lines.

• The nearer marker is in the form of a T-shape and the further marker is in the form of a pair of parallel lines, whereby the vertical section of T-shape of the nearer mark fits at least partially fits between the parallel line when in registration. In another example, the further marker may be in the form of the T-shape and the nearer marker in the form of the pair of parallel lines.

• The nearer marker is in the form of a large annulus, such as a circular annulus, square annulus or rectangular annulus, and the further marker is in the form of a smaller annulus of complimenting geometric shape such as a smaller circular annulus, square annulus or rectangular annulus or solid geometric shapes thereof that fits at least partially with in the nearer marker when in registration. In another example, the further marker is in the form the large annulus and the nearer marker is in the form of the smaller annulus or solid circle.

• The nearer marker is in the form of a single line and the further marker is in the form of a pair of lines, suitably parallel lines such that the single line fits at least partially between the pair of lines when in registration. In another example, the further marker is the single line and nearer marker is in the form of the pair of parallel lines.

In an embodiment, the nearer and further markers are spatially separated by at least lmm, and suitably by at least 3 or 5mm. Even more suitably, the markers are separated by a spacing ranging from 5 to 25mm and, preferably, by a spacing ranging from 10 to 20mm.

It is preferred that either one or both of upper and lower faces of the body are flat or planar. The alignment markers may also be oriented in a manner that is parallel or non-parallel to the upper or lower faces. Similarly, the nearer and further markers may also be parallel or non-parallel to each other.

It is also possible that either one or both of the upper and lower surfaces of the device may be curved or non-planar.

According to the present invention there is provided an alignment device including: i) a substantially transparent or translucent body that may be attached to, or incorporated into the head of a golf club; and ii) two alignment markers that are spatially separated and have the body extending therebetween, wherein when the device is attached to, or incorporated into the head of the golf club both markers can be observed such that one of the markers will be a nearer marker and the other marker will be a further marker, and the relative positions or parallax between the nearer and further markers can be used to repeatedly position their head relative to the device when in a stance or approach position.

In an embodiment, at least one of the nearer marker or further marker are connected to the body.

In an embodiment, the device includes one or more than one intermediate marker disposed between the nearer and further markers.

According to the present invention there is also provided a combination of the device described above, a hybrid club, and a golf club to which the device is fitted.

The device may optionally include any one or more of the preferred features of the device described above. In addition, the golf club may be any club and by way of example, and without limitation, the golf club may be a putter, an iron, a fairway recovery club, a fairway wood, or a driver. In the embodiment in which the club is putter, the putter has a substantially flat bottom in a direction from heel to toe of the putter.

The flat bottom is suitably at least 5 cm in length in a direction from heel to toe and even more suitably at in the range of the 7 to 15cm. In order to provide stability to the club when sitting on the ground, suitably, the club has one or more than one reward flat projections projecting rewardly from the striking surface toward the back of the club that is substantially planar when to the flat bottom. Suitably, the club includes two reward projections, one at the toe and another at the heel. The projections may range from 2 to 10 cm in length from the striking surface of the club. Notwithstanding the presence or absence of the projections, suitably, the flat bottom has a width in a direction from the striking surface to the back of the club of at least lcm, and suitably in the range of 2 to 5cm. In another embodiment, in addition to the flat bottom in a direct from heel to toe the putter has a substantially flat bottom in a direction from striking surface to the back of the club. In an embodiment, the fiat bottom has a length in the direction from the striking surface to the back of the club of at least 2 cm, and suitably in the range of 2 to 10cm.

In an embodiment the device be releasably fitted to the golf club or permanently attached thereto.

According to the present invention there is also provided a golf club having an alignment device, the alignment device including: i) a substantially transparent or translucent body that may be attached to, or incorporated into the head of a golf club; and ii) two alignment markers that are spatially separated and have the body located therebetween or extending therebetween, wherein when the device is attached to, or incorporated into the head of the golf club both markers can be observed such that one of the markers will be a nearer marker and the other marker will be a further marker, and the relative positions or parallax between the nearer and further markers can be used to repeatedly position their head relative to the device when in a stance or approach position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying Figures, of which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the device being suitable for use with any golf club including putters and drivers alike to assist a golfer to repeatedly obtain a good stance position;

Figure Ia is a representation of a Cartesian plan comprising X, Y and Z axes;

Figure 2 is a top view of the device shown in Figure 1; Figures 3 and 4 are left and right perspective views respectively of the device shown in Figure 1;

Figure 5 is a perspective view of a device according to a an embodiment of the present invention, the device being suitable for use with any golf club including putters and drivers alike; Figure 6 is a top view of the device shown in Figure 5;

Figures 7 and 8 are right and left perspective views respectively of the device shown in Figure 5; Figure 9 is a perspective view of a device according to a an embodiment of the present invention, the device being suitable for use with any golf club including putters and drivers alike;

Figure 10 is a top view of the device shown in Figure 9; Figures 11 and 12 are right and left perspective views respectively of the device shown in Figure 9;

Figure 13 is a perspective view of a putter head having the device shown in Figure 1 fitted thereto;

Figures 14 and 15 are front and side views of the putter head shown in Figure 13 respectively;

Figure 16 is a top view of the putter head shown in Figure 13;

Figures 17 and 18 are top and front views respectively of the putter head, wherein the putter head and device have been tilted from toe to heel of the putter in the direction of arrows A in Figures 13 and 14; Figures 19 and 20 are top and side views respectively of the putter head, wherein the putter head and device have been tilted from the front to back of the putter in the direction of arrows B in Figures 13 and 15;

Figure 21 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of a device fitted to a putter head, wherein the device is adapted to indicate the alignment of the putter head in a direction from heel to toe of the club head;

Figure 22 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of a device fitted to a putter head, wherein the device is adapted to indicate the alignment of the putter head in a direction from the front to the back of the putter head; and

Figures 23 to 26 are a perspective view, top view, right perspective view and left perspective view respectively of a device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 27 to 30 are a perspective view, top view, right perspective view and left perspective view respectively of a device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figures 31 to 34 are a perspective view, top view, right perspective view and left perspective view respectively of a device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 35 to 38 are a perspective view, top view, right perspective view and left perspective view respectively of a device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 39 to 42 are a perspective view, top view, right perspective view and left perspective view respectively of a device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 43 to 46 are a perspective view, top view, right perspective view and left perspective view respectively of a device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figures 47 to 50 are a perspective view, top view, right perspective view and left perspective view respectively of a device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 51 to 54 are a perspective view, top view, right perspective view and left perspective view respectively of a device according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

Figure 55 is a perspective view of a device according to an embodiment wherein the device comprises a layered structure having an open space in an inner region of the device;

Figure 56 is a perspective view of a device according to an embodiment wherein the device comprises a layered laminated structure;

Figure 57 is a perspective view of a device according to an embodiment wherein the device comprises a layered structure having a closed inner space or chamber; and

Figure 58 is a cross-sectional view of the device shown in Figure 57 in the direction of arrows C to C.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The preferred embodiments shown in the figures contain a number of features that are the same or substantially the same and as a matter of convenience the same reference numerals have been used in the following description to identify the same or similar features on the various embodiments.

Figure 1 illustrates an embodiment of the device that can be fitted to the head of a golf club and can be used to help align the player's head with the club head. The device includes a planar transparent body 10 having flat upper 11 and lower 12 surfaces. The body 10 may be made from any suitable material such as, and without limitation, plastic materials such as polyurethane, polystyrene and polycarbonate materials and silicon based materials including glass materials.

Although the body 10 of the device may be of any thickness, it is preferred that the device have a thickness in the range from 5 to 25 mm. It is even more preferred that the thickness range from 10 to 20mm and, ideally, have a thickness about 15mm. The device shown in Figure 1 has an upper flat surface 11 having the inverse or negative of a cross 13 as a first alignment marker and a lower face 12 having a positive cross 14 as a second alignment marker. The upper face 11, save for the cross 13 is not transparent. The cross 13 thereby provides a transparent window through which the positive cross 14 can be observed. It is envisaged that the device would be installed as shown in Figure 1 such that the first alignment marker is nearer to the point of observation and the second alignment marker is further from the point of observation. In other words, the bounder of the non-transparent region 13 defines a nearer alignment marker, the cross 13, and the positive cross 14 on the opposite face of body 10 is a further alignment marker.

It is convenient to discuss the features of the device in terms of Cartesian plan which, as shown in Figure Ia, comprises X, Y and Z axes which correspond with the dimensions of the device shown in Figure 1 as shown in perspective view.

Figure 2 illustrates the situation where the device shown in Figure 1 is observed from a position along the Z-axis. In other words, the parallax of the device is such that the inverse cross 13 is in registration with the positive cross. In terms of a Cartesian plan, both the inverse cross 13 and the positive cross have a vertical Y-axis, a horizontal X-axis and a Z-axis that extends outwardly from the page.

Figure 3 illustrates the situation where the device is observed from a position that is laterally to the right of a Z-axis. The alignment marks are observed as being offset in which the Y-axis of the positive cross 14 is located adjacent to the right hand boundary of the Y-axis of the inverse cross 13 of the nearer alignment marker.

Figure 4 illustrates the situation where the device is observed from a position that is laterally to the left of the Z-axis of the alignment markers. It will be appreciated that when the degree of parallax between the positive cross 14 and inverse cross 13 exceeds that shown in Figures 3 and 4, at least part of the part of the positive cross will be obscured from view. In other words, the positive cross 14 will become positioned behind the non-transparent portion 11.

Figures 5 to 8 illustrate an embodiment of the device that can be fitted to the head of a golf club and can be used to help align the player's head with the club head. The device includes a planar transparent body 10 having flat upper 11 and lower 12 surfaces. The device has an upper flat surface 11 having a positive cross 14 as a first alignment marker and a lower face 12 having an inverse or negative of a cross 13 as a second alignment marker. The arrangement of the positive and negative crosses 13 and 14 respectively is opposite to that shown in Figure 1. It is envisaged that the device would be installed as shown in Figures 5 to 8 such that the first alignment marker is nearer to the point of observation and the second alignment marker is further from the point of observation. In this situation, both the negative and positive crosses 14 and 13 will be observed at all times irrespective of the position of the degree of the parallax or offset from registration.

Figure 6 illustrates the situation where the device shown in Figure 5 is observed from a position along the Z-axis. In other words, the parallax of the device is such that the inverse cross 13 is in registration with the positive cross 14. In terms of a Cartesian plan, both the inverse cross 13 and the positive cross have a vertical Y-axis, a horizontal X-axis and a Z-axis that extends outwardly from the page. Figure 7 illustrates the situation where the device is observed from a position that is laterally to the right of a Z-axis. The alignment marks are observed as being offset in which the Y- axis of the positive cross 14 is located adjacent to the left hand boundary of the Y-axis of the inverse cross 13 of the further alignment marker. Figure 8 illustrates the situation where the device is observed from a position that is laterally to the right of the Z-axis of the alignment markers.

Figures 9 to 12 illustrate the same views of an alternative embodiment of the device of the present invention, save for the device comprising first and second alignment markers of a different shape. Specifically, in the case of the embodiment shown in Figures 9 to 12, the first or nearer alignment marker comprises a positive circle 15 with four limbs in the direction of the X and Y axes and the second or further alignment marker comprises an inverse circle 14 also with four limbs in the direction of the X and Y axes. The relative position of the nearer and further markers may also be observed as being spaced apart due to parallax phenomena. Figures 11 illustrates a view of the device shown in Figure 9 when observed from a position laterally to the right of the Z-axis of the device and Figure 12 illustrates a view of the device when observed from a position laterally to the left of the Z-axis of the device.

Figures 13, 16, 17 and 19 illustrate perspective and top views of a putter head 16 and shaft 22 fitted with the device 10 shown in the Figures 1 to 4. Although not shown in detail in Figure 9, the device 10 may be permanently or releasable mounted to the putter head. Ideally, the device 10 can be releasably held in an "in use position" by means of screws and other suitable fasteners. The underlying benefit of connecting a device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention to the putter head 16 is that the device 10 can be used by the user to repeatedly locate their head relative to the putter head 16 and thus repeatedly assume the same stance or approach position prior to swinging the golf club. More specifically, during a game of golf, the putter or any other club can be rotated in the direction of the arrows A shown in Figures 13 and 14 about the toe 17 and heel 18 of the club and in a direction of arrows B shown in Figure 13 and 15 about the front or striking surface 19 of the club and the back of the club 20. Orientation of the club in the direction of arrows B may also be referred to as the loft of the club.

Figure 18 illustrates the putter head 16 with its toe 17 elevated above the heel 18 of the club and the heel 18 of the club resting on the ground 21. Figure 17 illustrates a top view of the putter head 16 when position in an oriented shown in Figure 18. Specifically in Figure 17, the putter 16 is illustrated as if it was observed from a point along the Z-axis of the device when the X and Y axes are located on a flat horizontal plane parallel or parallel to the ground 21. As can be seen in Figure 17, the nearer and further alignment markers will be observed as having the X-axis offset. The relative positions of the Y-axes of the nearer and further markers indicate that the device and putter head is not tilted in the direction from the front to the back of the club, i.e., in the direction of arrow B.

Figure 20 illustrates the putter head 16 oriented in a position with the front 19 of the putter located above the tail or back 20 of the putter. The device 10 is located within the body of the putter head and is identified by dashed lines. Figure 19 illustrates a top view of the putter head 16 shown in the Figure 20, wherein the putter 16 is illustrated as if it was observed from a point along the Z-axis of the device when the X and Y axes are located on the horizontal plan or parallel to the ground 21. As can be seen in Figure 19, the nearer and further alignment markers will be observed as having Y-axis that are offset to the right which indicates that the front or leading edge 19 of the putter is raise relative to the tail 20 of the putter.

By observing the relative positions of the alignment markers, the golfer can repeatedly locate their head and, therefore, repeatedly obtain their desired stance or approach position. The desired stance or approach position will depend entirely on the individual concerned and, therefore, the desired parallax positions, whether they be offset or in registration, for one individual may be different to that of another. In addition, the putter has a flat bottom that provides a substantially flat surface in a direction from toe to heel for the club head. Ideally, the surface is flat over and area ranging from 2 to 10cm in a direction from the toe to heel and at least 2 cm wide in direction from the striking surface to the back of the club. An advantage in having a flat bottomed putter head is that flat bottom can be positioned on the surface of the green notwithstanding the slope of the green and the golfer can then adjust their stance position by bring their head to a same position relative to the club head repeatedly by observing the parallax position of the alignment marks. This avoids the toe or heel of the putter from being located in the raised position above the green prior to striking the ball which in our experience can lead to inconsistent putting.

Furthermore, the alignment aid enables the golfer to repeatedly position their head relative to the club in the same position irrespective of the slope of a putter green. In most situations, the golfer will wish to minimise parallax between the alignment marks by locating the head directly over the alignment marks on the putter.

In addition to the above, the putter can also be used to read the slope of fairway or green. More particularly, when the club is placed in position on the ground with the golfer observing the device from a position directly above the club, the relative positions of the nearer and further alignment markers can also be used to the elevate the slope of the ground on which the putter is resting.

Figure 21 illustrates a top view of a putter head 16 fitted with a device 10 comprising an X-axis alignment marker that extends laterally of the striking face 19 of the club. As described above, the positions of the X-axis alignment markers provide information on the orientation of the putter head relative to the point of observation in a direction from the toe 17 to the heel 18 of the club. The nearer marker 13 is defined by a band a transparent material on an upper face of the putter head. Either side of the transparent region is a non-transparent upper face 11. The further alignment marker is a positive line 14 of any colour spatially displaced below the nearer transparent region. Although not shown in Figure 21 , in the situation in which the putter head is rocked in a direction from heel to toe and the parallax between the alignment markers 13 and 14 is large, the further alignment marker 14 can become obscured from view by the non- transparent upper face 11.

Figure 22 illustrates a top view of a putter head 16 fitted with a device 10 comprising a Y-axis alignment marker only. As described above, the relative observed positions of the Y-axis alignment markers provide information on the orientation of the putter head relative to the point of observation in a direction from the front or leading edge 19 of the putter to the tail 20 of the club. The nearer marker 13 is defined by a band a transparent material on an upper face of the putter head. Either side of the transparent region is a non-transparent upper face 11. The further alignment marker is a positive line 14 of any colour spatially displaced below the nearer transparent region. Although not shown in Figure 21, in the situation in which the putter head is rocked in a direction from the striking surface to the back of the club and the parallax between the alignment markers 13 and 14 is large, the further alignment marker 14 can become obscured from view by the non-transparent upper face 11.

Figures 23 to 53 illustrate a series of alignment devices comprising a triangular body having a relatively linear base in a height or Z-direction and two curved side walls. When fitted to a golf club, it is envisaged that the base would be oriented substantially parallel to the striking surface of the golf club. The embodiments shown in Figures 23 to 53 will each be described with reference to the same orientation.

Figures 23 is a perspective view of an alignment device comprising a nearer marker in the form of an I-shape 13 and a further marker in the form of a pair of parallel lines 14. Figure 24 is a top view of the device shown in Figure 24 in which the nearer and further markers 13 and 14 are aligned in registration and as would appear to a golfer in the situation in the their head was located directly over the device when incorporated into a club such as a putter. Specifically, the vertical section of I-shape 13 of the nearer mark fits between the parallel lines 14 in offset alignment. Displacement of the vertical section of the I-shape from registration as shown in Figures 25 and 26 indicates that the golfer has moved their head in a direction from toe to heel of the club.

The positions of the upper and lower flanges of the I-shape 13 in Figure 25 also indicted that the golfer has moved their head toward the back of the golf club relative to the device.

Figure 27 is a perspective view of an alignment device comprising a nearer marker in the form of a T-shape 13 and a further marker is in the form of a pair of parallel lines 14. Figure 28 is a top view of the device shown in Figure 27 in which the nearer and further markers 13 and 14 are in registration and as would appear to a golfer in the situation in the their head was located directly over the device when incorporated into a club. Specifically, the vertical section of T-shape 13 of the nearer mark fits between the parallel lines 14, i.e., in offset alignment. Figures 29 and 28 illustrate the views seen by a golfer when they move their head in a direction from toe to heel of the club. Figure 29 also shows the relative position of the markers 13 and 14 when the golfer's head has been moved away from the striking surface or base of the device.

Figure 31 is a perspective view of an alignment device comprising nearer marker in the form of a circular annulus 13 and the further marker is in the form of smaller circular dot 14. Figure 32 is a top view of the device shown in Figure 31 in which the nearer and further markers 13 and 14 are aligned in registration and as would appear to a golfer in the situation in the their head was located directly over the device when incorporated into a club. Specifically, the smaller dot 14 fits within the annulus 13. Figures 33 and 34 illustrate the views seen by a golfer when they move their head in a direction from toe to heel of the club. Figure 33 also shows the relative positions of the markers when the golfer's head has been moved away from the striking surface or base of the device.

Figure 35 is a perspective view of an alignment device comprising nearer marker in the form of a circular annulus 13 and the further marker is in the form of smaller annulus 14. Figure 36 is a top view of the device shown in Figure 35 in which the nearer and further markers 13 and 14 are aligned in registration and as would appear to a golfer in the situation in the their head was located directly over the device when incorporated into a club. Specifically, the smaller annulus 14 fits within the larger annulus 13. Figures 33 and 34 illustrate the views seen by a golfer when they move their head in a direction from toe to heel of the club. Figure 37 also shows the relative positions of the markers when the golfer's head has been moved away from the striking surface or base of the device.

Figure 39 is a perspective view of an alignment device comprising nearer marker in the form of a single line 13 of one colour and the further marker in the form of a single line of another colour 14. Figure 40 is a top view of the device shown in Figure 39 in which the nearer and further markers 13 and 14 are aligned in registration and as would appear to a golfer in the situation in the their head was located directly over the device when incorporated into a club. Specifically, the nearer marker 13 obscures from the view the further marker 14 or prevents the further marker from being displayed. Figures 4 land 42 illustrate the views seen by a golfer when they move their head in a direction from toe to heel of the club. Figure 42 also shows the relative positions of the markers when the golfer's head has been moved away from the striking surface or base of the device. Figure 43 is a perspective view of an alignment device comprising nearer marker in the form of a single line 13 that extends part way across the device and the further marker in the form of a single line that extends part way across the device. Figure 40 is a top view of the device shown in Figure 39 in which the nearer and further markers 13 and 14 are aligned in registration and as would appear to a golfer in the situation in the their head was located directly over the device when incorporated into a club. Specifically, the nearer marker 13 aligns with the further marker 14 to form a substantially continuous line across the device. Figures 45 and 46 illustrate the views seen by a golfer when they move their head in a direction from toe to heel of the club. The position of the markers in Figure 46 also indicating the golfer's head has moved in a direction away from the striking surface or base of the device.

Figure 47 is a perspective view of an alignment device comprising nearer marker in the form of a single line 13 that extends across the device and the further marker in the form of a single line 14 that extends across the device. Figure 48 is a top view of the device shown in Figure 47 in which the nearer and further markers 13 and 14 are aligned in registration and as would appear to a golfer in the situation in the their head was located directly over the device when incorporated into a club. Specifically, the nearer marker 13 fits between the lines of the further marker 14. Figures 45 and 46 illustrate the views seen by a golfer when they move their head in a direction from toe to heel of the club. The position of the markers in Figure 50 also indicating the golfer's head has moved in a direction away from the striking surface or base of the device

Figure 51 is a perspective view of an alignment device comprising nearer marker in the form of a small rectangular annulus 13 and the further marker is in the form of larger rectangular annulus 14. Figure 52 is a top view of the device shown in Figure 31 in which the nearer and further markers 13 and 14 are aligned in registration and as would appear to a golfer in the situation in the their head was located directly over the device when incorporated into a club. Specifically, the nearer marker 13 fits within the further marker 14. Figures 53 and 54 illustrate the views seen by a golfer when they move their head in a direction from toe to heel of the club. Figure 54 also shows the position when the golfer's head has been moved away from the striking surface or base of the device.

The various shapes and formations of the markers described above may be attached to or defined by a body have transparent portions of any particular structure. Figures 55 to 58 are a set of examples of different types of structures. In particular, Figure 55 is an example of an embodiment comprises two layers, namely a top layer 23 and bottom layer 24 that are separated by an opening spacing 25. Although not shown in Figure 55, the nearer marker is attached to the top layer 23 and the further marker attached to the bottom layer 24.

Figure 56 is an example of a laminated structure comprising three layers, namely a top or upper layer 23, an inner layer 26 and a bottom layer 24. Although not shown in the Figure, a nearer marker is disposed between the upper and inner layers 23 and 26, and a further marker is disposed between the inner and bottom layers 24 and 26.

Figure 57 is an example of structure comprising two or more bodies in the form of top and bottom layers 23 and 24, and a middle layer 26 interposed between the top and bottom layers. The middle layer 26 defines an inner closed chamber 27 from which a solid material is absent. Figure 58 is a cross-section in the direction of arrows C of Figure 57 which shows the chamber 27 more clearly. Although not shown in Figure 58, the nearer and further markers are disposed on the inner faces 23a and 24a of the top and bottom layers 23 and 24 respectively.

Those skilled in the art of the present invention will appreciate that many modifications and variations may be made to the preferred embodiments described above without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

For example, although not shown in the Figures it would be possible for the first and/or second alignment markers to be embedded in the transparent body while still being spatially separated from each other.

According to another example, it is possible for the alignment aid to include more than two alignment markers such a nearer marker, a further marker and one or more intermediate markers between the nearer and further markers.

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1. An alignment device that can be attached to or incorporated into the head of a golf club, the device including: i) at least one body having a substantially transparent or translucent portion; and ii) two or more alignment markers that are spatially separated and wherein either, a) two or more markers are connected to, or defined on, one of said bodies, or b) each alignment marker is connected to, or defined on, separate respective bodies, and wherein when the device is attached to, or incorporated into the head of the golf club, one of the markers will be a nearer marker and the other marker will be a further marker, and the relative positions or parallax between the nearer and further markers can be observed by a golfer to help position their head relative to the device when in a stance or approach position.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the device comprises two or more than two of the bodies, and the bodies are in the form of layers having either the nearer marker or further marker on each layer.

3. The device according to claim 2, wherein the layers are arranged in a stack relationship in a laminated structure.

4. The device according to claim 3, wherein two or more of the layers are separated by a spacing.

5. The device according to claim 4, wherein the spacing is an open spacing defined by a region between the layers from which a solid transparent material is absent.

6. The device according to claim 5, wherein the spacing is a closed spacing between the layers defined by an enclosed chamber having an inner hollow region.

7. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein device comprises a single body and the nearer and further markers are embedded within the body.

8. The device according to claim 7, wherein the nearer and further markers are in the form of elongated members located within the body.

9. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein both the nearer and further markers are displayed when the markers are either in registration or out of registration.

10. The device according to claim any of claims 1 to 9, wherein one of the markers fits at least partially within the other mark when in registration.

11. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the nearer marker and the further marker are aligned in an offset manner when in the registration.

12. The device according to claim any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the nearer marker overlaps with the further marker when the nearer and further markers are in registration.

13. The device according to claim 12, wherein the nearer marker is non-transparent and obscures from view the further marker when the nearer marker and further marker are in overlapping registration.

14. The device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein both the nearer and further markers are displayed when the markers are out of registration, and only the nearer marker is displayed when the markers are in registration.

15. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the nearer marker is defined by a transparent or translucent portion in the body and the further marker is prevented from being displayed through the transparent portion when the nearer and further markers are out of registration, and the further marker is displayed when the nearer and further markers are at least partially in registration.

16. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the nearer and further markers include substantially first linear portions which, when the device is attached to or incorporated into the head of a golf club extend laterally to the striking surface of the club.

17. The device according to claim 16, wherein either one of the nearer and further markers include second linear portions that extend substantially parallel to the striking face of the club or substantially lateral to the first linear portions.

18. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein one of the markers is in the form of an I-shape and the other marker is in the form of a pair of parallel lines, whereby the vertical section of I-shape fits at least partially between the parallel lines when the markers are in registration.

19. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein one of the markers is in the form of a T-shape and the other marker is in the form of a pair of parallel lines, whereby the vertical section of T-shape fits at least partially fits between the parallel line when the markers are in registration.

20. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein one of the markers is in the form of a large annular shape and the other marker is in the form of a smaller shape that fits at least partially within the larger annular marker when the markers are in registration.

21. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein one of the markers is in the form of a pair of lines and the other marker is a single line that fits at least partially between the pair of lines when the markers are in registration.

22. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the markers are in the form of lines that extend partially across opposed sides of the body, and the markers are aligned when the markers are in registration.

23. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein either one or both of upper and lower faces of the body are flat or planar.

24. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein either one or both of the upper and lower surfaces of the device are curved or non-planar.

25. The device according to any one claims 1 to 24, wherein the nearer and further markers are positioned on outside faces of the body.

26. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein the body of the device has a thickness in the range from 5 to 25 mm.

27. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein the body of the device has a thickness range from 10 to 20mm.

28. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the nearer and further markers are spatially separated by at least lmm.

29. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the nearer and further markers are spatially separated by a spacing ranging from 10 to 20mm.

30. A putter including the alignment device according to any one of claims 1 to 29.

31. The putter according to claim 30, wherein the device be releasably fitted to the putter by way of a removable fastener.

32. The putter according to claim 30 or 31, wherein the putter has a substantially flat bottom in a direction from heel to toe of the putter.

33. The putter according to claim 32, wherein the flat bottom is at least 5cm in length in a direction from heel to toe.

34. The putter according to claim 32 or 33, wherein the flat bottom is in the range of the 7 to 15cm in length in a direction from heel to toe.

35. The putter according to any one of claims 30 to 34, wherein the putter has one or more than one reward flat projections projecting rewardly from the striking surface toward the back of the club that is substantially planar when to the flat bottom.

36. The putter according to claim 35, wherein the projections ranges from 2 to 10 cm in length from the striking surface of the club.

37. The putter according to any one of claims 30 to 36, wherein the putter has a substantially flat bottom in a direction from striking surface to the back of the club.

38. The putter according to claim 37, wherein the flat bottom has a length in the direction from the striking surface to the back of the club of at least 2 cm, and suitably in the range of 2 to 10cm.