WO2009043180A1

WO2009043180A1 - Height adjustable golf tee

Info

Publication number: WO2009043180A1
Application number: PCT/CA2008/001771
Authority: WO
Inventors: Gilles Blais; Nick Stolk
Original assignee: Gilles Blais; Nick Stolk
Priority date: 2007-10-02
Filing date: 2008-09-26
Publication date: 2009-04-09
Also published as: US20090088274A1; CA2632355A1

Abstract

A height adjustable golf tee assembly, and a method of use thereof, is disclosed. The assembly comprises a stabilization member, and a tee member. The stabilization member is longitudinally extending, and has a ground-penetrating tip having an upper opening and configured to penetrate the ground. A cavity extends downwardly from the upper end towards the ground-penetrating tip. The stabilization member comprises a ground abutment member spaced from the ground-penetrating tip. In another embodiment, the stabilization member comprises an elongate portion having a cavity that extends downwardly from an opening in the upper end, and an elongate threaded inner wall surrounds the cavity. The tee member comprises a shaft having a threaded outer wall. The threaded inner wall and the threaded outer wall have mating threads, and the tee member is rotatably receivable in the cavity.

Description

HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE GOLF TEE

RELATED APPLICATION

This patent application claims priority of U.S. provisional patent application No. 11/866,103, filed October 2, 2007 and pending Canadian patent application No. 2,632,355, filed May 27, 2008.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a golf tee. More specifically, the invention relates to a golf tee that is height adjustable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Golf tees are generally used to support a golf ball as a golfer is hitting the ball. Golf tees generally comprise an elongate shaft having an upper head for supporting the ball, and a lower spike for inserting into the ground. In use, a golfer inserts the lower spike into the ground such that the tee remains upright, places a golf ball on the upper head, and hits the ball.

As is known to those of skill in the art, depending on the type of shot a golfer is hitting, and the personal preferences of the golfer, amongst other factors, it may be desirable to position the golf ball at different heights above the ground. With a standard golf tee, this is accomplished by adjusting how far the spike is inserted into the ground. Alternatively, several golf tees exist which comprise means for adjusting the height of the upper head relative to the ground.

United States Patent 6,729,977 to Young et al discloses a height adjustable golf tee wherein the body of the shaft includes screw threads. A disc that has a flat lower surface is provided. The disc is screwed onto to the shaft to a position desired by the user, and may abut the top of the ground when the tee is inserted into the ground. Accordingly, the disc may be used to prevent the shaft from being inserted into the ground past a certain point. United States Patent 5,052,689 to Lettrich describes a similar height adjustable golf tee to Young et al, in which a disc is positioned on the shaft and sits on top of the ground to prevent the tee from being inserted further into the ground. In the tee of Lettrich, however, the shaft does not comprise screw threads, and the disc frictionally engages the shaft. Furthermore, the disc of Lettrich includes a tube that extends upwardly from the disc. The user may cut the tube to a desired height, such that when the tee is inserted into the tube, the upper head contacts the top of the tube and is prevented from being further inserted into the tube.

United States Patent 5,672,122 to Strong describes a similar height adjustable golf tee to Young et al, in which a disc is positioned on the shaft and sits on top of the ground to prevent the tee from being inserted further into the ground. In the tee of Strong, however, the shaft comprises indentations rather than screw threads, and the user may place the disc in an indentation at a desired height.

United States Patent Application 2005/0130769 to Olsen describes a height adjustable golf tee comprising a cylindrical collar that is slid onto the shaft of the tee. Similar to Lettrich, the bottom of the collar sits on the ground and prevents the tee from being inserted into the ground past a certain point, and the top of the collar contacts the upper head of the tee and prevents the tee from being inserted into the collar past a certain point.

United States Patent 7,086,972 to Bainbridge discloses a height adjustable golf tee holder that includes an inner sleeve for holding a tee, and an outer sleeve in which the inner sleeve is received. In use, a tee is inserted into the inner sleeve, which is longitudinally movable in the outer sleeve, and the entire assembly is inserted into the ground. The inner sleeve and the outer sleeve include complementary fasteners, such that the inner sleeve can be snapped into fixed positions within the outer sleeve, thus adjusting the height of the tee.

United States Patent Application 2006/0105859 to Thirkettle et al discloses a height adjustable golf tee device that is semi-permanently fixed in the ground, for use at a driving range. A hollow cylindrical housing is positioned in a pre-made hole in the ground and secured therein. The housing includes an interior cavity having screw threads. A tee is provided which has screw threads on the outer wall thereof. The tee is screwed into the housing until the upper head is at a desired height.

United States Patent 6,942,583 to Syu describes a height adjustable golf tee that includes a spike for inserting into the ground, a supporting tube for holding a golf ball, and a connecting tube for connecting the spike and the supporting tube. The bottom of the connecting tube is joined to the top of the spike. The connecting tube includes ridges extending outwardly from the sidewalls thereof. The ridges are at different fixed heights along the sidewalls. In use, the user positions the supporting tube around the connecting tube, on a ridge that is at a desired height.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one broad aspect, a height adjustable golf tee assembly is provided. The assembly comprises a longitudinally extending stabilization member. The stabilization member comprises an upper end having an opening, a ground- penetrating tip having an opening and configured to penetrate the ground, a cavity extending between the upper end and the ground-penetrating tip, and a ground abutment member spaced from the ground-penetrating tip. The assembly further comprises a tee member. The tee member comprises a ball-supporting head, and a shaft that is longitudinally movable in the cavity and positionable at a plurality of positions

An advantage of the golf tee assembly is that it may position a golf ball at relatively high distances above the ground. In particular, the use of a stabilization member that is elongate and configured to penetrate the ground provides enhanced support for the tee member. Thus, the tee member can be positioned such that the ball-supporting head is relatively high above the ground, and the tee member will not tilt or fall over. - A -

A further advantage of the golf tee assembly is that the stabilization member may prevent or minimize the risk that the tee will become dislodged from the ground when a ball is struck by a golf club or during a practice swing.

A further advantage of the golf tee assembly is that when the tee member is inserted into the stabilization member to a given position, and the assembly is inserted into the ground until the ground abutment member contacts the ground, the ball-supporting head of the tee member will be at a corresponding preset distance from the ground. That is, a user may position the tee member at a desired position within the stabilization member, and the assembly may be used numerous times, and each time will support a golf ball at substantially the same height above the ground.

A further advantage of the golf tee assembly is that the ground abutment member minimizes the risk that the stabilization member will become over-inserted and/or lodged in the ground.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a height adjustable golf tee assembly comprising a longitudinally extending stabilization member comprising an upper end having an opening, a ground-penetrating tip having an opening and configured to penetrate the ground, a cavity extending between the upper end and the ground-penetrating tip and a ground abutment member spaced from the ground-penetrating tip; and a tee member comprising a ball-supporting head and a shaft that is longitudinally movable in the cavity and positionable at a plurality of positions.

In one embodiment, the tee member comprises distance indicators provided on the shaft. The indicators may comprise a scale denoting or representing a distance from the ball-supporting head to the ground abutment member. Such an embodiment may be advantageous because the indicators will allow a user to preset and/or read the quantitative distance from the ball to the ground.

In another embodiment, the tee member is removably receivable in the cavity. In another embodiment, the stabilization member has an inner wall defining the cavity, and the shaft has an outer wall, and the inner wall and the outer wall have mating screw threads. Such an embodiment may be advantageous because it will allow for fine adjustment of the position of the tee member within the stabilization member. Furthermore, it will allow for the position of the tee member relative to the stabilization member to be adjusted while the golf tee assembly is in the ground, without inadvertently moving or dislodging the stabilization member. In addition, it may minimize the risk that the position of the tee member within the stabilization member will be accidentally changed, for example by being bumped by a golf club.

In another embodiment, the stabilization member is sized to be positioned within a footprint of the ball-supporting head when the tee member is received in the cavity. In other words, all of the outer perimeter of the stabilization member is positioned below the ball-supporting head.

In another embodiment, the stabilization member has an elongate main body portion, and the ground abutment member of the stabilization member comprises a flange extending outwardly from an upper portion of the elongate main body portion.

In accordance with one aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing a stabilization member, the method comprising providing a stabilization member mould assembly comprising at least two moulds, one of the at least two moulds being moveable with respect to the other one, the stabilization member mould assembly defining a cavity, a given mould of the at least two moulds comprising a rotatable threaded shaft extending from the given mould through the cavity to generate screw threads of the stabilization member. The manufacturing of the stabilization member further comprising injecting plastic in the cavity, separating the moveable mould from the other mould and rotating the rotatable threaded shaft using rotating means operatively connected to the rotatable threaded shaft to thereby provide the stabilization member. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing a tee member, the method comprising providing a tee member mould assembly for generating a corresponding tee member suitable for the stabilization member, the tee member mould assembly comprising at least two moulds defining a cavity suitable for generating the tee member. The method further comprising injecting plastic in the cavity of the tee member mould assembly and separating the moveable mould from the other mould of the tee member mould assembly to thereby provide a tee member corresponding to the stabilization member.

In another alternate broad aspect, a height adjustable golf tee assembly is provided. The height adjustable golf tee assembly comprises a stabilization member and a tee member. The stabilization member comprises an elongate portion having an upper end, and a lower ground-penetrating tip. A cavity extends downwardly from an opening in the upper end, and an elongate threaded inner wall surrounds the cavity. The tee member comprises a ball-supporting head, a shaft having a threaded outer wall, and a terminal end distal to the ball- supporting head. The threaded inner wall and the threaded outer wall have mating threads, and the tee member is rotatably receivable in the cavity. Rotation of the tee member relative to the stabilization member results in longitudinal movement of the tee member relative to the stabilization member.

An advantage of the golf tee assembly is that it may position a golf ball at a relatively high distance above the ground. That is, because the stabilization member is elongate and configured to penetrate the ground, it provides support to and holds up the tee member. Thus, the tee member can be positioned such that the ball-supporting head is relatively high above the ground, and the tee member will not tilt or fall over.

A further advantage of the golf tee assembly is that the stabilization member may prevent or minimize the risk that the tee will become dislodged from the ground when a ball is struck by a golf club. A further advantage of the golf tee assembly is that the mating screw threads of the inner and outer wall will allow for fine adjustment of the position of the tee member within the stabilization member. Furthermore, it will allow for the position of the tee member relative to the stabilization member to be adjusted while the golf tee assembly is in the ground, without inadvertently moving or dislodging the stabilization member. In addition, it may minimize the risk that the position of the tee member within the stabilization member will be accidentally changed, for example by being bumped by a golf club.

In accordance with this aspect of the present invention, there is provided a height adjustable golf tee assembly comprising a stabilization member comprising an elongate portion having an upper end, a lower ground-penetrating tip, a cavity extending downwardly from an opening in the upper end and an elongate threaded inner wall surrounding the cavity; a tee member comprising a ball- supporting head and a shaft having a threaded outer wall and a terminal end distal to the ball-supporting head, the threaded inner wall and the threaded outer wall have mating threads, the tee member is rotatably receivable in the cavity whereby rotation of the tee member relative to the stabilization member results in longitudinal movement of the tee member relative to the stabilization member.

In one embodiment, the stabilization member comprises a ground abutment member. Such an embodiment may be advantageous because when the tee member is inserted into the stabilization member to a given position, and the assembly is inserted into the ground until the ground abutment member contacts the ground, the ball-supporting head of the tee member will be at a corresponding given distance from the ground. That is, a user may position the tee member at a desired position within the stabilization member, and the assembly may be used numerous times, and each time will position a golf ball at substantially the same preset height above the ground. Furthermore, the ground abutment member minimizes the risk that the stabilization member will become over-inserted and/or lodged in the ground. In another embodiment, the tee member comprises height indicators that indicate a distance from the ball-supporting head to ground level when the stabilization member is positioned in the ground and the abutment member contacts the ground. Such an embodiment may be advantageous because the indicators will allow a user to preset and/or read the quantitative distance from the ball to the ground.

In another embodiment, the ground abutment member comprises a flange extending outwardly from an upper portion of the stabilization member.

In another embodiment, the ground-penetrating tip has an opening that is in communication with the cavity, whereby the terminal end of the tee member is extendible through the cavity from the upper and past the lower ground- penetrating tip.

In another embodiment, the ground-penetrating tip is configured for penetrating the ground.

In another embodiment, the tee member is removably receivable in the cavity.

In another embodiment, the stabilization member is sized to be positioned within a footprint of the ball-supporting head when the tee member is received in the cavity.

In another embodiment, at least a portion of the stabilization member is substantially cylindrical.

In another broad aspect, a method is provided for supporting a golf ball. The method utilizes a height-adjustable golf tee assembly. The height adjustable golf tee assembly comprises an elongate stabilization member and a tee member. The elongate stabilization member comprises an upper end having an opening, a lower ground-penetrating tip, a cavity extending from the opening into the stabilization member, and a ground abutment member spaced from the ground- penetrating tip. The tee member comprises a ball-supporting head and a shaft. The method comprises positioning the height adjustable golf tee assembly in the ground with the shaft inserted in the cavity and the ground abutment member adjacent the ground; and, placing a golf ball on the ball-supporting head of the tee member.

In another embodiment, the step of positioning the height adjustable golf tee in the ground comprises inserting the tee member into the stabilization member, adjusting a longitudinal position of the tee member relative to the stabilization member, and inserting the golf tee assembly into the ground.

In another embodiment, the method further comprises using height indicators on the shaft to position the ball-supporting head at a desired distance from the ground abutment member.

In another embodiment, the step of inserting the tee member into the stabilization member comprises rotating the tee member relative to the stabilization member.

In another embodiment the step of positioning the height adjustable golf tee assembly in the ground comprises inserting the stabilization member into the ground, and inserting the tee member into the stabilization member.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other advantages of the present invention will be more fully and particularly understood in connection with the following description of the preferred embodiments of the invention in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective exploded view of an embodiment of a golf tee assembly of the present invention;

Figure 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment Figure 1 showing the golf tee assembly in an assembled configuration supporting a golf ball;

Figure 3 is a vertical sectional view of the embodiment of Figure 1 showing the golf tee assembly in an assembled configuration supporting a golf ball at a first height; Figure 4 is a vertical sectional view of the embodiment of Figure 1 showing the golf tee assembly in an assembled configuration supporting a golf ball at a second height;

Figure 5 is a vertical section through the stabilization member of Figure 1 ;

Figure 6A is top plan view of a second embodiment of a stabilization member;

Figure 6B is front perspective view of the second embodiment of a stabilization member;

Figure 6C is front elevation view of the second embodiment of a stabilization member;

Figure 6D is a cross sectional view of the second embodiment of a stabilization member taken along lines A-A defined in Figure 6C;

Figure 6E is a front perspective view of a stabilization member wherein the stabilization member has been flipped around an horizontal plane;

Figure 7A is a front elevation view of a second embodiment of a tee member;

Figure 7B is a rear elevation view of the second embodiment of a tee member;

Figure 7C is a front perspective view of the second embodiment of a tee member;

Figure 8 is a cross sectional view of a stabilization member mould assembly used for manufacturing the second embodiment of a stabilization member;

Figure 9 a cross sectional view of a stabilization member mould assembly used for manufacturing the second embodiment of a stabilization member wherein each mould of the stabilization member mould assembly is separated by a given distance;

Figure 10 is a cross sectional view of the stabilization member mould assembly used for manufacturing the second embodiment of a stabilization member UlVI iVi I I a^o-uuuut/ 1 / 1 lo^a. i

- 11 -

wherein each mould of the stabilization member mould assembly is separated by a given distance and further wherein the stabilization member has been created;

Figure 11 is a front elevation view of a mould plate used for generating sixteen stabilization members; and

Figure 12 is a front perspective view, enlarged, of an embodiment of a mould plate using for manufacturing the stabilization member.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to Figures 1-4, a golf tee assembly 10 of the present invention is shown. Golf tee assembly 10 is height adjustable, thus allowing a user to position a golf ball 11 at a desired height. Golf tee assembly 10 comprises a stabilization member 12, and a tee member 14, which are longitudinally movable relative to each other, thereby allowing for height adjustment.

Stabilization member 12 is longitudinally extending. That is, stabilization member 12 comprises a portion, for example body portion 16, that is elongated. Body portion 16 may be of numerous shapes, including cylindrical, frustoconical, rectangular, or octagonal. In the preferred embodiment, body portion 16 is cylindrical.

In some embodiments, body portion 16 may have a length of between about 0.3 inches and about 3 inches, and an outer diameter of between about 0.2 inches and about 0.5 inches. However, persons of skill in the art will recognize that other dimensions are possible. In a preferred embodiment, body portion 16 has a length of 0.5 inches, and an outer diameter of 0.26 inches.

The upper end 18 of stabilization member 12 has an opening 20, into which tee member 14 is to be inserted. As used herein, the terms 'upper end¹ and 'upper portion' refer to the portion of stabilization member 12 that is at the top of stabilization member 12 when golf tee assembly 10 is in use and positioned in the ground. Opening 20 may be of any suitable size and shape that would allow tee member 14 to be inserted therethrough and fixed at a plurality of different positions. In some embodiments, for example, opening 20 may be circular, and have a diameter of between about 0.15 inches and about 0.25 inches. In a preferred embodiment, the opening 20 has a diameter of 0.2 inches.

The lower end 22 of stabilization member 12 comprises a ground-penetrating tip 24. As used herein, the term 'lower end¹ refers to the portion of stabilization member 12 that is at the bottom of stabilization member 12 when golf tee assembly 10 is in use and positioned in the ground. Ground-penetrating tip 24 may be of any configuration that facilitates lower end 22 to penetrate the ground. For example, in one embodiment, ground-penetrating tip 24 may be beveled. In another embodiment, ground-penetrating tip 24 may be saw toothed. In yet another embodiment, ground-penetrating tip 24 may comprise a flat or square edge, which may have a small enough wall thickness such that the flat edge may penetrate the ground. Preferably, lower end 22 has a narrower diameter then upper end 18 and, accordingly, ground-penetrating tip 24 may be a surface that extends inwardly. For example, ground-penetrating tip 24 may extend inwardly at an angle, or it may be curved.

Preferably, lower end 22 of stabilization member 12 comprises an opening 26. Opening 26 may be of any suitable size and shape that would allow tee member 14 to pass therethrough, as described herein with respect to opening 20. In other embodiments, lower end 22 of stabilization member 12 may be closed.

As shown in Figure 5, stabilization member 12 comprises a cavity 28, which extends downwardly from upper end 18. Cavity 28 may extend to a point proximal to ground-penetrating tip 24, to ground-penetrating tip 24, and preferably all of the way to optional opening 26. Thus tee member 14 may be pass all of the way through cavity 28 or may be lodged only partway downwardly from upper end 18. Accordingly, in use, cavity 28 may partially or fully house tee member 14. That is, tee member 14 may substantially fill cavity 28, or may only partially fill cavity 28. Cavity 28 may be of any suitable size or shape for housing tee member 14. In the preferred embodiment, cavity 28 is substantially cylindrical. Cavity 28 is defined by or surrounded by an inner wall 30. Inner wall 30 may be structured to engage or cooperate with tee member 14, as will be described further herein.

In some embodiments, stabilization member 12 preferably comprises a ground abutment member 32. Ground abutment member 32 serves to contact the ground when stabilization member 12 is inserted into the ground as exemplified in Figure 3. Ground abutment member 32 may be any member that will abut or contact the ground when stabilization member 12 is inserted into the ground past a certain point. In other embodiments, stabilization member 12 may not comprise a ground abutment member.

In the embodiments of Figures 1-5, ground abutment member 32 is a flange extending outwardly from upper end 18, preferably adjacent the top thereof. In alternate embodiments, ground abutment member 32 may be a bar, a cross, or a tube. Moreover, it will be appreciated that the ground abutment member 32 may be of any shape. The skilled addressee will appreciate that the shape of the ground abutment member 32 may be selected in accordance with marketing considerations e.g. to represent a logo. Ground abutment member 32 may be spaced from ground-penetrating tip 24. In all such embodiments, ground abutment member 32 comprises a member that extends outwardly from elongate body 16 and has a lower surface 34 that abuts or contacts the ground when stabilization member 12 is fully inserted into the ground as exemplified in Figures 3 and 4.

In the exemplified embodiment, ground abutment member 32 extends outwardly from the upper end 18 of stabilization member 12. Alternatively, ground abutment member 32 may extend from a middle portion of stabilization member 12.

Referring to Figure 2, tee member 14 comprises a ball-supporting head 36, and a shaft 38. Ball-supporting head 36 is at the upper end of shaft 38, and may be configured to support a golf ball. As such, ball-supporting head may comprise a cup, a ring, or a hollow hemisphere or any other design known in the art. In an alternative embodiment, the ball-supporting head may comprise at least three prongs for supporting the golf ball. The skilled addressee will appreciate that the at least three prongs are of great advantage in order to reduce friction. Shaft 38 extends downwardly from ball-supporting head 36 and ends in terminal end 40, which is distal to ball-supporting head 36. In some embodiments, terminal end 40 may be configured to penetrate the ground. For example, terminal end 40 may be beveled, or conical. In other embodiments, terminal end 40 may be blunt, such as if cavity 28 does not extend to lower end 22 of elongate body 16.

Tee member 14 may be of various sizes, depending on the preferences of the user, or the particular shot being performed, for example. In some embodiments, shaft 38 may be between 1 inch and 4 inches in length and between 0.1 inches and 0.25 inches in outer diameter, and ball-supporting head may be between 0.25 inches and 0.75 inches in diameter. In a preferred embodiment, shaft 38 is about 3.01 inches in length, and about 0.164 inches in outer diameter, and ball- supporting head 36 is about 0.5 inches in diameter.

In use, shaft 38 is insertable, preferably removably insertable, into cavity 30 via opening 20, and is longitudinally movable in cavity 28, and positionable at a plurality of positions. In some embodiments, shaft 38 has an outer wall 40, which is configured to engage inner wall 30 when shaft 38 is inserted into cavity 28. For example, outer wall 40 and inner wall 30 may comprise mating screw threads 42, 44, and as such tee member 14 is rotatably receivable in cavity 28. In such an embodiment, shaft 38 may be inserted through opening 20 into cavity 28, and may be positioned by rotating tee member 14 relative to stabilization member 12. Rotation of tee member 14 relative to stabilization member 12 will result in longitudinal movement of tee member 14 relative to stabilization member 14. Thus, a user may insert tee member 14 into stabilization member 12, and position ball-supporting head 36 at a desired preset height relative to stabilization member 12 by rotating shaft 38. In an alternate embodiment, outer wall 40 and inner wall 30 may engage by friction. That is, shaft 38 and cavity 28 may be sized such that shaft 38 fits snugly within cavity 28, and will remain in a given position unless force is exerted by a user. As mentioned hereinabove, in some embodiments, the lower portion 22 of stabilization member 12 comprises an opening 26. In such embodiments, shaft 26 may be inserted into cavity 28 such that terminal end 40 extends through cavity 28 from opening 20 through opening 26.

In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 1 , shaft 38 of tee member 14 may comprise distance indicators 46. Such indicators may be printed, engraved, or embossed, for example, on shaft 38. In the preferred embodiment, indicators 46 may comprise a scale (e.g., in inches) denoting a distance from ball-supporting head 36 to ground abutment member 32. For example, in the embodiment of Figure 1 , the scale on shaft 38 indicates that ball-supporting head is 1.5 inches above ground abutment member 32. In use, such indicators may be advantageous because when the golf tee assembly 10 is inserted into the ground such that ground abutment member 32 contacts the ground, indicators 46 will indicate the distance from the ball-supporting head 36 to the ground. As such, when a user places a ball on ball-supporting head 36, the golf tee assembly 10 will indicate to the user that the ball is a particular distance, for example 1.5 inches, above the ground.

In some embodiments, stabilization member 12 may be sized to be positioned within a footprint of the ball-supporting head when the tee member 14 is inserted into cavity 28. That is, no portion of stabilization member 12 is of a greater diameter than ball-supporting head 36. As such, in some embodiments, stabilization member may be sized such that all portions thereof are of a smaller diameter than ball-supporting head 36. In other words, stabilization member 12 is positionable within a footprint of ball-supporting head 36.

In some embodiments, tee member 14 is removable receivable in stabilization member 12. That is, tee member 14 may be completely removed from stabilization member 12. Thus, for example, if tee member 14 is damaged, a user may replace the damaged tee member with a new tee member 14. Alternatively, if desired, a user may exchange a given tee member for another tee member of a different size.

Golf tee assembly 10 may be fabricated in a number of ways and from a variety of materials as further explained below. In a preferred embodiment, tee member 14 and stabilization member 12 are fabricated from a moulded plastic such as polypropylene. In some embodiments, all or a portion of golf tee assembly 10 may comprise a phosphorescent (i.e. glow-in-the-dark) material. For example, one or both of tee member 14 and stabilization member 12 may be fabricated from a molded plastic that is mixed with strontium aluminate.

Now referring to Figs. 6A-E, there is shown an embodiment of a stabilization member 600 that has been manufactured according to one embodiment disclosed herein. The skilled addressee will appreciate that the stabilization member 600 has a shape substantially similar to the stabilization member disclosed above at the exception of a plurality of anchoring means 602 and a protruding member 604.

The plurality of anchoring means 602 are located on the top surface of the stabilization member 600. In the embodiment disclosed in Figs. 6A-E, the plurality of anchoring means 602 are located around the periphery of the opening 20 and are distributed evenly around the periphery of the opening 20. The skilled addressee will appreciate that the plurality of anchoring means 602 are used for manufacturing the stabilization member 600 as further explained below. Still in the embodiment disclosed in Figs. 6A-E, each of the plurality of anchoring means 602 has a square shape. The skilled addressee will appreciate that the plurality of anchoring means 602 may have other shapes. Moreover, the skilled addressee will appreciate that the plurality of anchoring means 602 may be provided at another location on the stabilization member 600 provided that they prevent a rotation of the stabilization member 600 around its vertical axis.

The protruding member 604 is located at the bottom of the stabilization member 600. In one embodiment, the protruding member 604 is extending outwardly from the ground-penetrating tip 24. In one embodiment the protruding member 604 comprises a plastic flash. In one embodiment, the protruding member 604 is aligned with the bottom of screw threads 24 on the inner wall of the stabilization member 600. The skilled addressee will appreciate that the protruding member 604 is of great advantage for creating a friction between the stabilization member 600 and a corresponding tea member 14 engaged within the stabilization member 600. As a consequence, unscrewing the stabilization member 600 will require more effort from an operator which will avoid accidental movement of the stabilization member 600 with respect to the tea member 14.

Now referring to Figs. 7A-C, there is shown an embodiment of a tee member 700 that has been manufactured according to a plastic moulding technique. In fact, it will be appreciated that in one embodiment the stabilization member 600 is made with 50% regrind and 50% virgin material. The tee member 700 is made of 75% regrind and 25% virgin material. Still in one embodiment, the melting temperature is 285 degrees Celsius. The stabilization member has a cure cycle time of 8 seconds while the tee member 700 has a cure cycle time of 13 seconds before mold open to eject parts. It will be appreciated that in one embodiment a biodegradable plastic, such as ECM Masterbatch pellets ECM6.0701 , manufactured by ECM Biofilms, lnc may be used. It will be also appreciated that alternatively Makrolon 6455 clear may be used together with a suitable mixture for generating a desired color.

As shown in Fig. 7A-C, the injection of the plastic has been performed at a location 702 on the tea member 700. In this embodiment, the location 702 is situated between the bottom part 40 and the screw threads 42 of the tea member 700. The skilled addressee will appreciate that various other locations may be suitable for injecting the plastic. For instance, the location 702 may be situated at the bottom part 40 of the tea member 700.

Now referring to Fig. 8, there is shown an embodiment of a stabilization member mould assembly 800 for manufacturing the stabilization member 600 shown in Figs. 6A-E. The stabilization member mould assembly 800 comprises a moving mould 802 and a stationary mould 804. The moving mould 802 is moving with respect to the stationary mould 804. Moreover, it will be appreciated that when the moving mould 802 is abutting the stationary mould 804, a cavity 806 is defined and is used for creating the stabilization member 600. In such case, the plastic may be injected in the cavity 806. It will be appreciated that the plastic may be injected in the cavity according to various embodiments known to the skilled addressee and departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Still referring to Fig. 8, it will be appreciated that the moving mould 802 comprises a rotatable threaded shaft 808 extending outwardly from a shaft 810. The moving mould 802 further comprises a fixed member 814 to which is secured stabilization member grapping element 812 mating the plurality of anchoring means 602 of the stabilization member 600. More precisely, it will be appreciated that the stabilization member grapping element 812 comprises a plurality of extending members used for generating the plurality of anchoring means 602. It will be appreciated that thanks to the plurality of extending members, a rotation movement of the stabilization member 602 is prevented when the rotatable threaded shaft 808 is rotating. The skilled addressee will appreciate that this is of great advantage in order to generate the screw threads 44 of the stabilization member 600. It will be appreciated that the rotatable threaded shaft 808 is rotating using rotating means, not shown. In one embodiment, the rotation means comprises an hydraulic motor. Still in one embodiment, the motor is controlled using controlling means, not shown. It will be appreciated that the fixed member 814 may have an outer surface comprising raised elements positioned to engrave a text on the stabilization member 600.

Now referring to Fig. 9, there is shown an embodiment of the stabilization member mould assembly 800 wherein the plastic has been previously injected in the cavity 806. It will be further appreciated that in this embodiment, the rotatable threaded shaft 808 has further been already rotated thus creating the screw threads 44 of the stabilization member 600. The skilled addressee will appreciate that in this embodiment the moving mould 802 is moving away from the stationary mould 804 to release the newly created stabilization member 600.

Now referring to Fig. 10, there is shown an embodiment of the stabilization member mould assembly 800 wherein the moving mould 802 has been moving further away from the stationary mould 804. In such embodiment, the stabilization member 600 has been released from the stabilization member mould assembly 800.

It will be appreciated that the stabilization member mould assembly 800 disclosed is exemplary and that various other embodiments may be provided. In particular, and now referring to Fig. 11 , there is shown an embodiment of a stationary mould 1100 having a plurality of cavities 1102, each of the plurality of cavities 1102 being connected to a source of plastic using a channel 1104. In this embodiment sixteen stabilization members 600 may be generated at a time.

Now referring to Fig. 12, there is shown an enlarged view of an embodiment of the moving mould 802 which shows the plurality of anchoring means 602 and the corresponding stabilization member grapping element 812.

It will be appreciated that the manufacturing of the stabilization member may comprises the providing of a stabilization member mould assembly comprising at least two moulds, one of the at least two moulds being moveable with respect to the other one, the stabilization member mould assembly defining a cavity, a given mould of the at least two moulds comprising a rotatable threaded shaft extending from the given mould through the cavity to generate screw threads of the stabilization member. The manufacturing of the stabilization member further comprising injecting plastic in the cavity, separating the moveable mould from the other mould and rotating the rotatable threaded shaft using rotating means operatively connected to the rotatable threaded shaft to thereby provide the stabilization member.

It will be further appreciated that the manufacturing of the tee member may comprises providing a tee member mould assembly for generating a corresponding tee member suitable for the stabilization member, the tee member mould assembly comprising at least two moulds defining a cavity suitable for generating the tee member. The manufacturing of the tee member may further comprises injecting plastic in the cavity of the tee member mould assembly and separating the moveable mould from the other mould of the tee member mould assembly to thereby provide a tee member corresponding to the stabilization member.

A method for utilizing an embodiment of a golf tee assembly of the present invention will presently be described. As discussed hereinabove, in one embodiment, the golf tee assembly may comprise an elongate stabilization member, and a tee member. The elongate stabilization member may comprise and upper end having an opening, a lower ground-penetrating tip, a cavity extending from the opening into the stabilization member, and a ground abutment member spaced from the ground-penetrating tip. The tee member may comprise a ball-supporting head and a shaft.

In a first step, the user may position the golf tee assembly in the ground with the shaft of the tee member inserted in the cavity of the stabilization member and the ground abutment member adjacent the ground. The golf tee assembly may be assembled either before positioning the assembly in the ground, or after positioning the assembly in the ground. That is, the user may insert the shaft of the tee member into the cavity of the stabilization member, and then insert the tee member and the stabilization member into the ground, or, the user may insert the stabilization member into the ground, and then insert the tee member into the stabilization member.

The step of inserting the tee member into the stabilization member may involve placing the terminal end of the shaft of the tee member into the upper opening of the stabilization member, and directing the shaft into the cavity. In order to direct the shaft into the cavity, the user may rotate the shaft relative to the stabilization member to engage screw threads on the inner wall of the stabilization member and the outer wall of the shaft, or may press the shaft into the stabilization member, depending on the structure of the inner wall of the stabilization member and the outer wall of the shaft, as discussed hereinabove.

After or concurrent with inserting the tee member into the stabilization member, the user may adjust the longitudinal position of the tee member relative to the stabilization member. Such an adjustment will adjust the height of a golf ball positioned on the ball-supporting member when the golf tee assembly is in the ground. In some embodiments, the user may desire a golf ball to be at a particular distance from the ground. Such a distance may be 1.5 inches, for example. As such, the user may adjust the longitudinal position of the tee member relative to the stabilization member such that the ball-supporting head is at the desired distance, for example 1.5 inches, from the ground abutment member. The user may achieve a desired distance by approximating or "eyeballing" the correct distance, or the user may use height indicators provided on the shaft. In use, when the assembly is inserted into the ground, and a ball is placed on the ball-supporting head, the distance from the ball-supporting head to the ground abutment member will be substantially equal to the distance from the base of the ball to the ground. Thus a user may preset the golf tee assembly to position a golf ball at a desired distance from the ground.

In embodiments wherein the inner wall of the stabilization member and the outer wall of the shaft have mating screw threads, the user may make particularly fine adjustments of the height of the golf ball. For example, in some embodiments, one full rotation of the tee member relative to the stabilization member may result in a change in longitudinal position of about 1/16^th of an inch.

As previously mentioned, the golf tee assembly may be positioned in the ground such that the ground abutment member is adjacent to the ground. That is, a user may insert the stabilization member into the ground until the ground abutment member contacts the ground. When the ground abutment member contacts the ground, the user will feel increased resistance, which will indicate to the user that the stabilization member is in place. As previously mentioned, the stabilization member may be inserted into the ground with the tee member housed therein, or alone.

Subsequent to positioning the golf tee assembly in the ground, the user may wish to further adjust the longitudinal position of the tee member relative to the stabilization member. For example, as mentioned hereinabove, in some embodiments the user may position the tee member in the stabilization member and adjust the longitudinal position thereof prior to inserting the golf tee assembly into the ground. In such an embodiment, when the tee member has been inserted into the ground, the user may consider that the height (or longitudinal position) of the tee member relative to the stabilization member is either too high or too low. Thus, the user may further adjust the height of the tee member relative to the stabilization member, for example by rotating the tee member, or by pressing or pulling the tee member.

Embodiments of the golf tee assembly of the present invention may be advantageous because the user may adjust the height of the tee member relative to the stabilization member without removing the assembly from the ground. That is, because the stabilization member is insertable into the ground, the user may, for example, rotate tee member relative to the stabilization member to adjust the height thereof, and the stabilization member will stay in place. This may allow the golfer to more accurately position a golf ball at a desired height.

After the user has positioned the golf tee assembly in the ground, the user may place a golf ball on the ball-supporting head of the tee member. When the ball has been placed on the ball-supporting head, the user may consider that the ball is either too high or too low. As such, the user may again adjust the longitudinal position of the tee member relative to the base member. This may be done with the ball on the ball-supporting head, or if desired, the user may remove the ball from the ball-supporting head prior to the adjustment.

Embodiments of a golf tee assembly of the present invention may be advantageous because the user may position the golf ball at relatively high positions. That is, referring to Figure 3, because the stabilization member is elongate and insertable into the ground, it will provide support to and hold up the tee member. Thus, the tee member may be positioned such that the terminal end is relatively close to ground level, and the stabilization member will prevent the tee member from tilting or falling.

When the user has positioned the golf ball on the golf tee assembly at the desired height, the user may proceed with hitting the ball. As is known to those of skill in the art, it is not uncommon for a standard golf tee to break or become dislodged when a golf ball supported thereon is struck by a golf club. A golf tee assembly of the present invention may be advantageous because, when the ball is hit, stabilization member may anchor the tee member in the ground, and may act as a brace for the tee member, thus preventing the tee member from breaking or becoming dislodged.

Claims

1. A height adjustable golf tee assembly comprising: a longitudinally extending stabilization member comprising an upper end having an opening, a ground-penetrating tip having an opening and configured to penetrate the ground, a cavity extending between the upper end and the ground penetrating tip and a ground abutment member spaced from the ground penetrating tip; and a tee member comprising a ball-supporting head and a shaft that is longitudinally movable in the cavity and positionable at a plurality of positions

2. The height adjustable golf tee assembly of claim 1 wherein the tee member further comprises distance indicators provided on the shaft, the indicators comprising a scale denoting a distance from the ball-supporting head to the ground-abutment member.

3. The height adjustable golf tee assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 2, wherein the tee member is removably receivable in the cavity.

4. The height adjustable golf tee assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 3, wherein the stabilization member has an inner wall defining the cavity, and the shaft has an outer wall, and the inner wall and the outer wall have mating screw threads.

5. The height adjustable golf tee assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 4, wherein said stabilization member is sized to be positioned within a footprint of the ball-supporting head when the tee member is received in the cavity.

6. The height adjustable golf tee assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 5, wherein the stabilization member has an elongate main body portion and the ground abutment member comprises a flange extending outwardly from an upper portion of the elongate main body portion.

7. The height adjustable golf tee assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least a portion of the height adjustable golf tee comprises a phosphorescent material.

8. The height adjustable golf tee assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 7, wherein said height adjustable golf tee assembly is made using one of ECM Masterbatch pellets ECM6.0701 and Makrolon 6455 clear.

9. The height adjustable golf tee assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 8, wherein said ball-supporting head comprises at least three prongs for supporting said ball.

10. The height adjustable golf tee assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 8, wherein said ball-supporting head comprises one of a cup, a ring and a hollow hemisphere.

11. A height adjustable golf tee assembly comprising: a stabilization member comprising an elongate portion having an upper end, a lower ground-penetrating tip, a cavity extending downwardly from an opening in the upper end and an elongate threaded inner wall surrounding the cavity; a tee member comprising a ball-supporting head and a shaft having a threaded outer wall and a terminal end distal to the ball-supporting head, the threaded inner wall and the threaded outer wall have mating threads, the tee member is rotatably receivable in the cavity whereby rotation of the tee member relative to the stabilization member results in longitudinal movement of the tee member relative to the stabilization member.

12. The height adjustable golf tee assembly of claim 11 , wherein the stabilization member further comprises a ground abutment member.

13. The height adjustable golf tee assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 11 to 12, wherein the tee member comprises height indicators that indicate a distance from the ball-supporting head to ground level when the stabilization member is positioned in the ground and the abutment member contacts the ground.

14. The height adjustable golf tee assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 11 to 13, wherein the ground abutment member comprises a flange extending outwardly from an upper portion of the stabilization member.

15. The height adjustable golf tee assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 11 to 14, wherein the ground-penetrating tip has an opening that is in communication with the cavity, whereby the terminal end of the tee member is extendible through the cavity from the upper end past the lower ground- penetrating tip.

16. The height adjustable golf tee assembly of claim 15, wherein the ground- penetrating tip is configured for penetrating the ground.

17. The height adjustable golf tee assembly as claimed in anyone of claim 11 to 16, wherein the tee member is removably receivable in the cavity.

18. The height adjustable golf tee assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 11 to 17, wherein the stabilization member is sized to be positioned within a footprint of the ball-supporting head when the tee member is received in the cavity.

19. The height adjustable golf tee assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 11 to 18, wherein at least a portion of the stabilization member is substantially cylindrical.

20. The height adjustable golf tee assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 11 to 19, wherein at least a portion of the height adjustable golf tee comprises a phosphorescent material.

21. The height adjustable golf tee assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 11 to 20, wherein said height adjustable golf tee assembly is made using one of ECM Masterbatch pellets ECM6.0701 and Makrolon 6455 clear.

22. The height adjustable golf tee assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 11 to 21 , wherein said ball-supporting head comprises at least three prongs for supporting said ball.

23. The height adjustable golf tee assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 11 to 21 , wherein said ball-supporting head comprises one of a cup, a ring and a hollow hemisphere.

24. A method for supporting a golf ball utilizing a height-adjustable golf tee assembly, the height adjustable golf tee assembly comprising an elongate stabilization member and a tee member, the elongate stabilization member comprising an upper end having an opening, a lower ground-penetrating tip, a cavity extending from the opening into the stabilization member, and a ground abutment member spaced from the ground-penetrating tip, and the tee member comprising a ball-supporting head and a shaft, the method comprising: positioning the height adjustable golf tee assembly in the ground with the shaft inserted in the cavity and the ground abutment member adjacent the ground; and, placing a golf ball on the ball supporting head of the tee member.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein the positioning of the height adjustable golf tee assembly in the ground comprises: inserting the tee member into the stabilization member; adjusting a longitudinal position of the tee member relative to the stabilization member; and, inserting the golf tee assembly into the ground.

26. The method as claimed in anyone of claims 24 to 25, further comprising using height indicators on the shaft to position the ball supporting head at a desired distance from the ground abutment member.

27. The method as claimed in anyone of claims 24 to 26, wherein the step (a) comprises rotating the tee member relative to the stabilization member.

28. The method of claim 24, wherein the positioning of the height adjustable golf tee assembly in the ground comprises: inserting the stabilization member into the ground; and, inserting the tee member into the stabilization member.

29. A method for manufacturing the stabilization member as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 23, the method comprising: providing a stabilization member mould assembly comprising at least two moulds, one of the at least two moulds being moveable with respect to the other one, the stabilization member mould assembly defining a cavity, a given mould of the at least two moulds comprising a rotatable threaded shaft extending from the given mould through the cavity to generate screw threads of the stabilization member; injecting plastic in the cavity; separating the moveable mould from the other mould; rotating said rotatable threaded shaft using rotating means operatively connected to the rotatable threaded shaft to thereby provide the stabilization member.

30. The method as claimed in claim 29, further comprising providing a tee member mould assembly for generating a corresponding tee member suitable for the stabilization member, said tee member mould assembly comprising at least two moulds defining a cavity suitable for generating said tee member; injecting plastic in the cavity of the tee member mould assembly; and separating the moveable mould from the other mould of the tee member mould assembly to thereby provide a tee member corresponding to the stabilization member.