WO2011119412A1 - Appareil d'entraînement au golf - Google Patents

Appareil d'entraînement au golf Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2011119412A1
WO2011119412A1 PCT/US2011/028865 US2011028865W WO2011119412A1 WO 2011119412 A1 WO2011119412 A1 WO 2011119412A1 US 2011028865 W US2011028865 W US 2011028865W WO 2011119412 A1 WO2011119412 A1 WO 2011119412A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
golf training
training apparatus
user
golf
housing
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2011/028865
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Michael G. Bowman
Randy B. Bowman
Original Assignee
Squared Up Corporation
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Squared Up Corporation filed Critical Squared Up Corporation
Priority to EP11759943.1A priority Critical patent/EP2552556A4/fr
Priority to AU2011229765A priority patent/AU2011229765A1/en
Priority to KR1020127028065A priority patent/KR20130038252A/ko
Priority to NZ60322111A priority patent/NZ603221A/en
Priority to CN201180016324.9A priority patent/CN102858411B/zh
Priority to JP2013502619A priority patent/JP2013523262A/ja
Priority to SG2012071759A priority patent/SG184297A1/en
Publication of WO2011119412A1 publication Critical patent/WO2011119412A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
    • A63B69/36—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf
    • A63B69/3623—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf for driving
    • A63B69/3629—Visual means not attached to the body for aligning, positioning the trainee's head or for detecting head movement, e.g. by parallax
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
    • A63B69/36—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf
    • A63B69/3667—Golf stance aids, e.g. means for positioning a golfer's feet
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B57/00—Golfing accessories
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
    • A63B69/36—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf
    • A63B69/3614—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf using electro-magnetic, magnetic or ultrasonic radiation emitted, reflected or interrupted by the golf club
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
    • A63B69/36—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf
    • A63B69/3676—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf for putting
    • A63B69/3682—Visual means not attached to the body for aligning, positioning the trainee's head or for detecting head movement, e.g. by parallax
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
    • A63B71/06—Indicating or scoring devices for games or players, or for other sports activities
    • A63B2071/0675—Input for modifying training controls during workout
    • A63B2071/0683—Input by handheld remote control
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
    • A63B2220/80—Special sensors, transducers or devices therefor
    • A63B2220/803—Motion sensors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2225/00—Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment
    • A63B2225/50—Wireless data transmission, e.g. by radio transmitters or telemetry
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2225/00—Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment
    • A63B2225/74—Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment with powered illuminating means, e.g. lights

Definitions

  • the concept of "squaring up” means to align one' s body when addressing the golf ball to ensure that the player is appropriately positioned with respect to both the golf ball and the intended target of the player's shot.
  • a player in general, hits the ball in the direction in which the player is aligned, and if this alignment does not correspond to the intended target, then the shot most likely will be off line also. With consistency in the setup and address, a player will be more confident in his ability to repetitively hit the ball squarely and in the direction intended.
  • a set of embodiments therefore, provides improved tools and techniques for teaching a player the proper alignment when addressing a golf ball.
  • certain embodiments provide an alignment aid that allows the player to visualize both the intended target line of the shot as well as the position of the ball relative to the player's stance, allowing the player to easily modify his stance to obtain the proper alignment.
  • such tools can also allow the player to verify a number of other important details, such as clubface alignment, location of the hands at address, the divot location (after the shot) relative to the original ball position.
  • One set of embodiments provides a golf training apparatus.
  • the golf training apparatus might be configured to project one or more beams of visible light to assist in the alignment of a user relative to a target location and/or a ball position.
  • An exemplary apparatus might comprise a housing.
  • the apparatus in an aspect of some embodiments, might have one or more light-emitting devices (e.g., one or more lasers, a rotating laser, one or more light-emitting diodes, etc.) disposed at least partially within the housing.
  • the light-emitting devices might be disposed external to the housing, e.g., coupled with an exterior surface of the housing, etc.
  • the lasers or other light-emitting devices
  • the apparatus will further comprise a beam alignment device, which also might be disposed within the housing.
  • the beam alignment device is configured to direct a first beam of light along a target axis defining an intended target line of a golf ball struck by a user.
  • the beam alignment device might be configured to direct a second beam of light along an alignment axis corresponding to a stationary position of the golf ball relative to a stance of the user.
  • a variety of beam alignment devices are possible in different embodiments.
  • a beam alignment device might merely comprise a fitting that is designed to hold one or more light-emitting devices in a specified orientation.
  • a beam alignment device might comprise one or more prisms, such as cylindrical prisms, triangular prisms, one or more lenses, such as lenticular lenses, etc.
  • the apparatus further comprises a control device to receive input from the user and/or a control circuit, which might be in electrical communication with the light-emitting device(s) and/or the control device.
  • the control device might comprise a button, accelerometer, etc., which can allow for control of the apparatus by manipulation.
  • the control device might comprise a remote control receiver, a Bluetooth receiver, and/or the like.
  • the input from the user might comprise control signals received from a remote control device, a wireless phone, and/or the like.
  • the control circuit might be configured to control operation of the light-emitting device(s), e.g., based at least in part on input received by the control device.
  • the apparatus might further comprise a base having a surface configured to be placed on the ground.
  • the housing then, might be disposed on the base and/or coupled with the base.
  • the base may be incorporated within the housing.
  • the base might be configured to allow the housing to rotate relative to the ground.
  • the base might be configured to allow the housing to be disposed at a variable angle relative to horizontal.
  • Another set of embodiments provides golf training systems.
  • a system in accordance with one set of embodiments might comprises a golf training apparatus (e.g., such as the apparatus described above), along with a remote control facility.
  • a remote control facility can be a software application comprising instructions executable by a computing device (such as wireless phone, handheld computer, tablet computer, laptop computer, etc., to name a few examples), to control operation of the golf training apparatus (e.g., by transmitting signals to be received by the control device in the golf training apparatus).
  • the remote control facility might be a dedicated remote control device separate from the golf training apparatus; the remote control device being configured to receive input from a user and to transmit signals to control operation of the golf training apparatus based a least in part on input from the user.
  • An exemplary method might comprise aligning a golf training apparatus (such as the apparatus described above, for example) with respect to a target location.
  • the method might further comprise placing the golf ball on the alignment axis, and evaluating an alignment of the user addressing the golf ball, based at least in part on the position of the user relative to at least one of the beams of light.
  • the method might further comprise modifying the alignment of the user, based at least in part on the position of the user relative to at least one of the beams of light.
  • the method might further comprise controlling operation of the golf training apparatus using a software program on a wireless phone
  • Fig. 1 illustrates a plan view of a golf training apparatus assisting a golfer' s alignment with a target line and a ball, in accordance with various embodiments.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates an elevation view of a golf training apparatus of a golf training apparatus assisting a golfer' s alignment with a target line and a ball, as depicted in Fig. 1.
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective drawing of a golf training apparatus, in accordance with various embodiments.
  • FIG. 4 is a cutaway plan view of a golf training apparatus, in accordance with various embodiments.
  • FIGs. 5A-5C illustrate various views of a base for a golf training apparatus, in accordance with various embodiments.
  • FIGs. 6A, 6B, 6C, and 6D are simplified schematic diagrams of a control circuit for a golf training apparatus, in accordance with various embodiments.
  • Fig. 7 is a process flow diagram illustrating a method of golf training, in accordance with various embodiments.
  • certain embodiments provide improved tools and techniques for teaching a player the proper alignment when addressing a golf ball.
  • certain embodiments provide an alignment aid that allows the player to visualize both the intended target line of the shot as well as the position of the ball relative to the player's stance, allowing the player to easily modify his stance to obtain the proper alignment.
  • such tools can also allow the player to verify a number of other important details, such as clubface alignment, location of the hands at address, the divot location (after the shot) relative to the original ball position, and/or the like.
  • One set of embodiments provides a golf training apparatus.
  • One such apparatus projects two lines of light, one corresponding to the intended target line of the ball's flight path and the other corresponding to the ball's position normal to that target line.
  • Other embodiments can project more or fewer lines; for example, one embodiment might project only a line corresponding to the target path, while another embodiment might project a line, in addition to the target line and the position line, that corresponds to the ball's intended flight path to allow the player to align for a draw— in which the ball's flight path curves from right to left for a right-handed player— or fade, in which the ball's flight path curves from left to right for a right-handed player, while still maintaining the same target axis.
  • one embodiment provides an apparatus comprising a housing, with one or more light emitting devices (e.g., lasers, light emitting diodes (“LED”), and/or the like) disposed at least partially within the housing (and/or outside the housing). Such devices might operate to emit one or more beams of light within a visible spectrum.
  • the apparatus might further comprise a beam alignment device disposed within the housing; the beam alignment device might be configured to direct a first beam of light along a target axis defining an intended target line of a golf ball struck by a user and to direct a second beam of light along an alignment axis corresponding to a stationary position of the golf ball relative to a stance of the user.
  • the apparatus might include a control device to receive input from the user and/or a control circuit in electrical communication with the light emitting devices and the control device; the control circuit thus might be configured to control operation of the one or more lasers, based at least in part on input received by the control device.
  • the light emitting device(s) might comprise one or more lasers, and in particular embodiments, such lasers might be green lasers, with a transmission wavelength of between about 510-570 nm.
  • a laser is the model ER60 green laser diode, available from The Laser Guy.comTM of Houston, TX, which is a 532nm laser operating at 250mA and 3.0VDC, with an output power adjustable from 20mw to 30mw.
  • Particular embodiments comprise four lasers, which might be arranged such that a first pair of lasers are generally coaxial but aligned in opposite directions, to project two, generally beams along an axis (e.g., the target axis) running through the apparatus; with another pair of lasers that are generally coaxial along an axis (e.g., the ball alignment axis) roughly normal to the target axis.
  • the beam alignment device might comprise one or more (e.g., four) prisms to focus each beam in the appropriate direction.
  • prisms might be cylindrical prisms, triangular prisms, and/or the like.
  • a beam alignment device might simply serve to secure each laser within the housing so as to ensure that the emitted light is projected along the appropriate axes.
  • the light emitting device might comprise a single, rotating laser.
  • the beam alignment device might comprise a laser housing defining one or more apertures to allow projection of beams along the appropriate axes.
  • some embodiments might project a line, in addition to the target line and the ball position line, that corresponds to the ball's intended flight path to allow the player to align for a draw— in which the ball's flight path curves from right to left for a right-handed player— or fade, in which the ball's flight path curves from left to right for a right-handed player, while still maintaining the same target axis.
  • the direction of this line can be adjusted by the user (either manually or electronically through a control circuit) through a variety of angles from the target line (e.g., 5°, 10°, 15°, 20°, 25°, etc.) either by adjustment of the position of the light emitting device, adjustment of the beam alignment device, adjustment of a position of an aperture in a laser housing, etc.
  • a variety of angles from the target line e.g., 5°, 10°, 15°, 20°, 25°, etc.
  • control device might comprise a switch, which might be manually manipulable by the user.
  • the switch might allow selective operation of the device, for example to allow continuous operation of the light emitting devices, to allow intermittent operation of the light emitting devices (e.g., in repeating on-off cycles of varying duration, such as ten seconds on and ten seconds off, etc.), and/or to turn the light emitting devices off altogether.
  • control device might comprise one or more accelerometers, which might control operation (e.g., via a switch in the control circuit) of the apparatus through movement, which for example, could allow a user to select a mode of operation (e.g., constant on, intermittent, or off) by moving the apparatus, such as by tapping the apparatus with a foot, club-head, and/or the like.
  • a mode of operation e.g., constant on, intermittent, or off
  • a control circuit featuring such accelerometers could be configured to turn the apparatus off when movement (either directional or angular) greater than a certain threshold is detected; such functionality could provide for safeguards (e.g., to prevent inadvertent exposure of the projected light to the eyes of the user or another) and/or to prevent unintended operation and corresponding battery drain (e.g., if the user were to pick up the apparatus and place it in a golf bag without manually turning it off).
  • control device might comprise a remote control receiver, which could be configured to receive signals (e.g., RF signals) from a supplied remote control device and control operation of the apparatus accordingly.
  • control device might comprise a receiver (e.g., a Bluetooth receiver) configured to receive signals from a separate device (e.g., a wireless phone, handheld computer, etc.) running an application for controlling the apparatus.
  • a separate device e.g., a wireless phone, handheld computer, etc.
  • another set of embodiments provides golf training systems, an example of which might comprise an apparatus as described above, as well as a remote control device and/or a software application executing on a wireless phone (to name one example) for controlling operation of the apparatus.
  • An exemplary method might comprise aligning a golf training apparatus (such as that described above, to name one example) with respect to a target location (e.g., such that the apparatus projects a beam along a target axis that is aligned with the target location), and placing the golf ball on the alignment axis.
  • the method might further comprise the user addressing the golf ball, and/or evaluating the alignment of the user, based at least in part on the position of the user relative to one or more of the beams of light projected by the apparatus.
  • the method might further comprise controlling operation of the golf training apparatus using a remote control device and/or a software program on a wireless phone or similar device.
  • FIGs. 1 and 2 illustrate one possible use of a golf training device
  • the golf training device 1 is configured to project beams 2 of visible light (e.g., laser light) to aid in the alignment of a golfer 3 (also referred to herein as a "player” and a “user"), which is represented in Fig. 1 by footprints 3, with respect to a target location (represented here as the flagstick 4) and the ball 5.
  • the target location 4 represents a point or area to which the player would like to hit the ball 5 by striking the ball 5 with a golf club in a conventional manner.
  • the beams 2 are projected along two axes 6.
  • a first axis (referred to herein as the "target axis” or the “X-axis") 6a corresponds to a target line extending from the device 1 to a target 4.
  • the target line between the device 1 and the target 4 is a sufficient approximation of the true target line between the ball 5 and the target 4.
  • a second axis (referred to herein as the "ball alignment axis,” the “alignment axis,” or the “Y-axis”) 6b is roughly normal to the target axis 6a.
  • the player 3 will situate the device 1 so that the
  • X-axis (target axis) 6a is aligned with the target 4.
  • the player can power the device 1 on (e.g., using a control device), and optionally take a step back behind the device (along the X-axis 6a) to verify that alignment is correct by visually looking at the visible light 2 projected along the X-axis 6a.
  • the player 3 will then address to the golf ball 5, using the beam 2, projected along the X-axis 6a, to ensure that his feet (and therefore his body) are correctly aligned (e.g., by ensuring that the distance from each foot to the X-axis 6a is consistent.
  • the user can determine where, in relation to his stance (foot position), the ball 5 lies. For example, for many shots, the player 3 would want the ball 5 to be positioned neutrally between both feet, so that the player 3 would move his feet to ensure that the Y-axis 6b falls midway between his feet. In other cases, the player 3 might want to position the ball 5 closer to his lead foot (e.g., when hitting a long iron or a wood), while in other cases, the player 3 might want to position the ball 5 closer to his trailing foot (e.g., when hitting a short iron). In either case, the player 3 can adjust the position of his feet, relative to the Y-axis 6b to obtain the correct ball position (while maintaining consistent alignment with the X- axis 6a).
  • Various embodiments can provide other uses and benefits as well. For example, with repeated use of the training device to align shots, players will develop the ability to visualize the proper alignment to the target more precisely even when not using the device. This ability, in turn, creates confidence in the setup, which allows the player to focus on other aspects of the game. Moreover, once a user determines their ideal setup they can learn to change stances for hitting different flight patterned shots.
  • clubface position will be addressed when placing the club down on the line towards the ball position.
  • the user When placing the club head down for address and gripping the club, the user will be able to visually see whether he has their clubface open, closed, or square at address.
  • embodiments also allow the player to train hand position at address. When lining up for a shot, the player will be able to visually see if his hands and club handle are in front of, behind, or hovering directly over the line projected between the users stance.
  • the training device can also be used for putting.
  • the device can be placed behind opposite the cup (i.e., on the side of the cup opposite the ball) to direct a beam toward the ball along a putting line. The player then can see the direction and/or type of spin he is producing off his putter, allowing the user to train a more accurate swing plane when putting.
  • Fig. 3 illustrates a housing for a golf training device, in accordance with one set of embodiments.
  • the housing comprises a body portion 300 and a lid portion 305, which can be separable to allow for manufacture and/or repair of the device.
  • Housed within the housing typically will be the light emitting devices, the control circuit, a power source (e.g., a battery), and any necessary beam alignment devices).
  • a power source e.g., a battery
  • Fig. 4 illustrates a cutaway plan view of a golf training device 400
  • the illustrated device 400 comprises four lasers 405, with four corresponding prisms 410 to align the beams produced by the four lasers 405.
  • one or more lenses could be used to align the beams produced by the lasers 405.
  • the device might employ one or more lenticular lenses to align the beams; for example, the number of lenticules can be selected, based on the characteristics of the laser 405, to optimize laser performance and/or to balance performance with safety and/or regulatory concerns.
  • the housing 420 defines four apertures 415, through which the beams from the lasers 405 are directed by the prisms 410.
  • One pair of lasers 405a, 405b are used to generate the beams along the target axis, while the other pair of lasers 405c, 410d are used to generate the beams along the ball alignment axis.
  • the beam alignment device e.g., prism 410a, lens, etc.
  • the laser 405a is situated in relation to the laser 405a in such a way that the laser is focused on a point on the ground between about 6 and about 30 inches (and, in certain cases, between about 12 and about 24 inches) from the device 400 (when the device 400 is placed on flat ground). This configuration will produce a visible line extending about the same distance from the device 400.
  • the beam alignment device might be configured to project a beam over a longer distance (e.g., several hundred yards), to allow the flight of the ball to be tracked against the target line and/or to allow the target axis to be aligned precisely with the target location.
  • a longer distance e.g., several hundred yards
  • the device 400 might be configured so that one laser 405a projects light a significant distance, while the other three lasers 405b, 405c, 405d project light only between about 6 and about 30 inches from the device.
  • the housing 420 can be constructed from a variety of materials, including without limitation various plastics and metals.
  • the housing is molded using WatershedTM XC 11122 low viscosity liquid photopolymer.
  • the lasers 405, in one embodiment, are 3V-5V green lasers, with power output from is lmW to 60mW, although other light emitting devices (including other lasers, such as red lasers, and/or light emitting diodes, etc.) can be used as well.
  • the prisms 410 can be, in one embodiment, 1 ⁇ 4" diameter cylindrical plastic rods; in other
  • the devices 400 might be fitted plastic or glass lenses, plastic or glass triangular (i.e., pyramidal) prisms.
  • Other beam alignment devices could include 2 to 4 way beam splitters (which might comprise be crystals, prisms, mirrors, etc.) and/or plastic or glass lenses (including, without limitation, lenticular lenses), among other options.
  • the device 400 typically will include other components not illustrated by Fig. 4, including without limitation a power source, a control device and/or control circuit, and/or the like.
  • the golf training device might include a base, which can allow the housing of the device to be manipulated with respect to the ground.
  • Figs. 5A illustrates an elevation view of a base 500 that can be used in accordance with some embodiments.
  • the base might have feature a first surface that is configured to be placed on the ground, and a second surface that is configured to have the housing disposed thereon. (In some embodiments, the second surface generally opposes the first surface.)
  • the base 500 illustrated by Fig. 5A comprises an upper body 505 (a plan view of which is illustrated by Fig. 5C) and a lower body 510 (a plan view of which is illustrated by Fig. 5B).
  • the lower body 510 comprises a first surface 520 that is configured to be placed on the ground, while the upper body 505 comprises a second surface 515 that is configured to be have the housing of the apparatus (e.g., as illustrated by Figs. 3 and 4) placed thereon.
  • the base 500 can take any of a variety of forms. Merely by way of example, the base 500 might have the same footprint as the housing for the device (e.g., the housing pictured in Figs. 3 and 4 might have a similar, cross-shaped base).
  • the base might include a rotational device, such as a turntable, set of bearings, etc., that allow a portion of the base to rotate along a central axis (which may be normal to the first and/or second surfaces of the base).
  • a rotational coupling apparatus 525 e.g., with an axle, set of bearings, etc.
  • the second surface 515, on which the housing is disposed can rotate freely (and/or with resistance, detents, etc.) relative to the first surface 520, effectively allowing the housing to be rotated relative to the ground, without the first surface 520 of the base 500 rotating relative to the ground.
  • the base 500 might comprise bearing surfaces or devices to allow for a more secure fit between the base 500 and the ground and/or between the base 500 and the housing.
  • the base 500 comprises four legs 530, which can be made of rubber, plastic, or any suitable material. (It should be noted other embodiments might more or fewer, or no, legs 530.)
  • the legs 530 might each be attached to the lower surface 520 of the lower body 510 with a threaded attachment, such that each of the legs 530 can be raised or lowered (by threading the legs 530 into the base 500 relatively more or less) to allow the base to sit securely on an uneven ground surface.
  • the legs 530 might be spiked, to allow for partial insertion into the ground, might be incorporated into the lower body 510, etc.
  • the base 500 might feature one or more coupling mechanisms to allow the base 500 to be coupled with the housing of the golf training device.
  • the base 500 might be integrated with, and/or permanently attached to, the housing itself
  • the upper surface 515 of the upper body 505 includes four coupling mechanisms 535 to allow the base 500 to be coupled with a housing of a golf training device.
  • the coupling mechanisms 535 might merely comprise rubber pads that provide friction between the base 500 and the housing.
  • the coupling mechanisms 535 might employ hook- and-loop fasteners (e.g., VelcroTM fasteners).
  • the coupling mechanisms might comprise bolts, rivets or other, more relatively permanent fasteners.
  • the coupling mechanisms 535 might comprise tabs (or slots) that can fit into corresponding slots (or tabs) on the bottom surface of the housing.
  • a variety of different coupling devices 535 (and, for that matter, legs 535) can be used in accordance with different embodiments.
  • the base might be configured to allow adjustment of an angle of the base of the housing (and/or the upper surface 515) and the ground. This can be accomplished in a number of ways.
  • the height of the legs 530 might be adjustable (e.g., as described above) to allow the base to rest at an angle to the ground by adjusting some or all of the legs 530 to different heights.
  • the coupling between the upper body 505 and the lower body 510 might allow for adjustments to allow the upper body 505 and the lower body 510 to be non-coplanar. By changing the angle of the housing (relative to the ground and/or the horizontal), the user then can change the length that one or more of the beams of light will be projected before intersecting the ground.
  • Figs. 6A-6D are schematic diagrams illustrating control circuits in accordance with various embodiments.
  • One skilled in the art will appreciate, based on the disclosure herein, that these diagrams are simplified for purposes of illustration and description, and that various embodiments might include various other electrical components, such as resistors, capacitors, diodes, and/or the like, as necessary and/or appropriate.
  • Fig. 6A illustrates a control circuit 600 for controlling operation of a golf training device, such as the devices described above.
  • the control circuit 600 includes a control device (in the illustrated embodiment, switch 605) and two sets of light emitting devices (e.g., lasers, LEDs, etc.) 610, along with a power supply 615.
  • the switch 605 of Fig. 6A includes a toggle 620 that is manipulable by a user.
  • the power supply 615 can include one or more batteries, AJC power (perhaps with an A/C-D/C transformer), and/or the like. In a particular embodiment, power supply 615 might comprise one to four 3V batteries with an amperage range of 350 to 2200mA.
  • Fig. 6A illustrates the two sets of light emitting devices as being wired in parallel to indicate that either set can be powered on or off independent of the other.
  • one set of light emitting devices 610a might be used to propagate a beam along a target axis, while another set of light emitting devices 610b might be used to propagate a beam along a ball alignment axis.
  • the control circuit 600 can allow the user, for example, to power on the light emitting devices 610a to visualize the target line without using the ball alignment feature (or vice versa). It should be noted, of course, that other configurations might be wired in serial or might otherwise require all light emitting devices 610 to be powered on or off together.
  • each set might comprise one or more light emitting devices.
  • each set might comprise one or more light emitting devices.
  • the switch 605, in certain embodiments can be configured to allow the user to select one or more sets of light emitting devices 610 to be powered on, as well as to specify the operation of the light emitting devices 610 (e.g., constant on, power off, intermittent on, etc.).
  • the switch 605 might be a 3-position timing switch to allow selection (e.g., via the toggle 620) from among 3 selectable timing positions, such as 30 seconds on, 10 sec off; 45 seconds on, 10 seconds off; 60 seconds on, 10 seconds off; etc.
  • the switch 605 might include a separate toggle 620 for each set of light emitting devices 610.
  • Fig. 6B illustrates a second embodiment of a control circuit 625, which is similar to the control circuit 600 of Fig. 6A, except that the control device comprises a switch 605 in communication with an accelerometer 630. (A toggle switch might be included as well).
  • the control circuit 625 can allow control of the golf training device, as described above, through movement (angular or linear) of the golf training device. Upon sensing movement, the accelerometer 625 transmits a signal to the switch 605 to control operation of the light emitting devices 610.
  • Fig. 6C illustrates a third embodiment of a control circuit
  • control device comprises a switch 605 in communication with an RF receiver 640 that can receive RF signals from a remote control device 645 and thereby, via the switch 605, control operation of the light emitting devices 610.
  • RF receiver 640 can receive RF signals from a remote control device 645 and thereby, via the switch 605, control operation of the light emitting devices 610.
  • a toggle switch might be included as well.
  • the remote control 645 and/or receiver 640 might be configured to operate by infrared transmissions and/or the like.
  • Fig. 6D illustrates a fourth embodiment of a control circuit 650, which is similar to the control circuit 635 of Fig. 6C, except that a Bluetooth receiver 655 can receive signals from a wireless device 660 (e.g., a wireless phone, handheld computer, etc.) and thereby control operation of the light emitting devices 610 via the switch 605.
  • a wireless device 660 e.g., a wireless phone, handheld computer, etc.
  • the components of the control circuits illustrated in Figs. 6A-6D can be combined as desired (such that, for example, a control device might comprise both a Bluetooth receiver and an accelerometer, or an RF receiver and a toggle switch, etc.).
  • a control circuit might be implemented as a printed circuit board (“PCB") programmed for 5 separate power circuits to control 5 separate lasers simultaneously, along with control settings for a selectable timing switch, and controls for the accelerometer, remote receivers, etc.
  • PCB printed circuit board
  • Figure 7 illustrates a method 700 of golf training.
  • the method 700 comprises aligning a golf training device (such as the devices described above) with respect to a target location.
  • the golf training device could be aligned so that a beam of emitted light corresponds to a target line to the target location.
  • the method 700 further comprises placing a golf ball on the ball alignment axis of the golf training device (block 710), such that the device emits a beam of light (or multiple beams of light) that intersect the ball and the player's stance.
  • the player addresses the ball in conventional fashion
  • the method 700 comprises evaluating the player's alignment, based at least in part on the position of the player relative to least one of the beams of light, for example, in the fashion described above.
  • the method 700 comprises modifying the alignment of the player, based at least in part on the position of the player relative to at least one of the beams of light.
  • the player's feet might be realigned (by movement of one or both feet closer to and/or further from the target axis), and/or if the ball is not aligned in the proper position in the player's stance, the player's alignment might be modified by moving one or both feet either closer to or further from the ball alignment axis.
  • the method 700 can comprise controlling operation of the golf training device (block 730), for example by operating a control device (using, inter alia, any of the methods described above to power on the golf training device (and/or some or all of the light emitting devices therein), to adjust the timing of the light emitting devices, and/or the like.
  • Controlling operation of the golf training device might include, for instance, nudging the device with a foot or clubhead, manipulating a toggle, operating a software program on a wireless phone or other device, and/or operating a remote control device.

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Rehabilitation Tools (AREA)
  • Aiming, Guidance, Guns With A Light Source, Armor, Camouflage, And Targets (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention se rapporte à de nouveaux outils et à de nouvelles techniques permettant d'enseigner à un joueur le bon alignement lorsqu'il frappe une balle de golf. Selon un aspect, de tels outils et de telles techniques offrent une aide à l'alignement qui permet au joueur de visualiser à la fois la ligne cible voulue du coup ainsi que la position de la balle par rapport à la posture du joueur, ce qui permet au joueur de modifier facilement sa posture pour obtenir le bon alignement.
PCT/US2011/028865 2010-03-26 2011-03-17 Appareil d'entraînement au golf WO2011119412A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (7)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP11759943.1A EP2552556A4 (fr) 2010-03-26 2011-03-17 Appareil d'entraînement au golf
AU2011229765A AU2011229765A1 (en) 2010-03-26 2011-03-17 Golf training apparatus
KR1020127028065A KR20130038252A (ko) 2010-03-26 2011-03-17 골프 훈련 장치
NZ60322111A NZ603221A (en) 2010-03-26 2011-03-17 Golf training apparatus
CN201180016324.9A CN102858411B (zh) 2010-03-26 2011-03-17 高尔夫训练设备
JP2013502619A JP2013523262A (ja) 2010-03-26 2011-03-17 ゴルフトレーニング器具
SG2012071759A SG184297A1 (en) 2010-03-26 2011-03-17 Golf training apparatus

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US31817210P 2010-03-26 2010-03-26
US61/318,172 2010-03-26

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2011119412A1 true WO2011119412A1 (fr) 2011-09-29

Family

ID=44657082

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2011/028865 WO2011119412A1 (fr) 2010-03-26 2011-03-17 Appareil d'entraînement au golf

Country Status (9)

Country Link
US (1) US20110237343A1 (fr)
EP (1) EP2552556A4 (fr)
JP (3) JP2013523262A (fr)
KR (1) KR20130038252A (fr)
CN (1) CN102858411B (fr)
AU (1) AU2011229765A1 (fr)
NZ (1) NZ603221A (fr)
SG (2) SG184297A1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2011119412A1 (fr)

Families Citing this family (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US10369448B2 (en) 2010-03-26 2019-08-06 Squared Up Corporation Golf training apparatus
WO2013041644A1 (fr) * 2011-09-21 2013-03-28 Leslie Egan Appareil pour le golf
KR101698007B1 (ko) * 2016-06-16 2017-01-19 오진우 골프장 그린의 비접촉식 측정장치
KR102661107B1 (ko) 2021-10-28 2024-04-26 (주)디엠비에이치 발의 정위치를 판단하는 골프 스윙 연습기

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5527041A (en) * 1995-04-21 1996-06-18 Terry, Iii; J. Stanford Golf putting trainer
US5632689A (en) * 1995-09-07 1997-05-27 Golf Training Technologies, Inc. Golf training apparatus and method
US20070243942A1 (en) * 2004-04-22 2007-10-18 Elliott Deane O Golf practice system, method and apparatus
US20090017929A1 (en) * 2007-07-11 2009-01-15 Yaohui Zhang Laser beam method and system for golfer alignment
US7602301B1 (en) * 2006-01-09 2009-10-13 Applied Technology Holdings, Inc. Apparatus, systems, and methods for gathering and processing biometric and biomechanical data

Family Cites Families (24)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0499569A1 (fr) * 1991-02-11 1992-08-19 Juan De Aguilar Villanova-Rattazzi Club de golf avec moyens de visée
US5435562A (en) * 1993-02-10 1995-07-25 Stock; Suzanne Golf club laser alignment device
US5362060A (en) * 1993-07-29 1994-11-08 Hinson Larry W Stance minder for golfers
JP3044592B2 (ja) * 1993-08-18 2000-05-22 株式会社スギノマシン アドレス指示器
JPH08786A (ja) * 1994-06-17 1996-01-09 Takashi Toda ゴルフ練習装置
JPH0871193A (ja) * 1994-09-05 1996-03-19 W Hinson Larry スタンス指示具（ｓｔａｎｃｅ ｍｉｎｄｅｒ）
US5725440A (en) * 1996-04-12 1998-03-10 Finney; Mark J. Laser-guided golf club putter
US6071202A (en) * 1997-01-14 2000-06-06 Densberger; John A. Golf swing training method
AUPR352001A0 (en) * 2001-03-05 2001-03-29 O'reilly, Michael An assembly for practicing golf
US6661410B2 (en) * 2001-09-07 2003-12-09 Microsoft Corporation Capacitive sensing and data input device power management
US7025688B1 (en) * 2002-11-21 2006-04-11 George Hatzikostantis Laser alignment system
US6872150B2 (en) * 2002-12-17 2005-03-29 Dan A. Welch Putting practice kit and method
US20050198845A1 (en) * 2004-02-19 2005-09-15 Glenn Robinson Multiple laser laser level
CN2724025Y (zh) * 2004-04-20 2005-09-07 蔡柏荣 高尔夫球激光推杆激光头的调校装置
US20060040757A1 (en) * 2004-08-18 2006-02-23 Rosselli Matteo J Body attached golf aim alignment device and method for use
US7112145B2 (en) * 2004-12-03 2006-09-26 Mark Gaddy Golf training device
US7118488B2 (en) * 2005-01-21 2006-10-10 Newtonics Spectra Inc. Training putter with laser line projecting device
US20070044699A1 (en) * 2005-08-23 2007-03-01 Psi Sales, Inc. Occupant protection apparatus for a center console vessel
JP2009119072A (ja) * 2007-11-15 2009-06-04 Brother Ind Ltd 運動プログラム用楽曲作成装置、プログラム及び方法
KR101202113B1 (ko) * 2007-11-27 2012-11-15 무겐 인코포레이티드 타격 위치 검출 장치, 타격 위치 검출 방법, 및 타격 위치 검출 장치의 제조 방법
US9597576B2 (en) * 2008-09-29 2017-03-21 Jack W. Peterson Method and device for improving putting
JP2009261893A (ja) * 2008-12-05 2009-11-12 Tsunemasa Nishigaki ゴルフ練習装置及びその使用方法
US7938732B2 (en) * 2009-02-27 2011-05-10 Kuhlman Jr John Laser golf alignment device and method
US7727079B1 (en) * 2009-02-27 2010-06-01 Kuhlman Jr John A Laser golf alignment device and method

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5527041A (en) * 1995-04-21 1996-06-18 Terry, Iii; J. Stanford Golf putting trainer
US5632689A (en) * 1995-09-07 1997-05-27 Golf Training Technologies, Inc. Golf training apparatus and method
US20070243942A1 (en) * 2004-04-22 2007-10-18 Elliott Deane O Golf practice system, method and apparatus
US7602301B1 (en) * 2006-01-09 2009-10-13 Applied Technology Holdings, Inc. Apparatus, systems, and methods for gathering and processing biometric and biomechanical data
US20090017929A1 (en) * 2007-07-11 2009-01-15 Yaohui Zhang Laser beam method and system for golfer alignment

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See also references of EP2552556A4 *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
JP2017225883A (ja) 2017-12-28
CN102858411A (zh) 2013-01-02
AU2011229765A1 (en) 2012-11-08
CN102858411B (zh) 2015-11-25
EP2552556A4 (fr) 2014-07-30
JP6405018B2 (ja) 2018-10-17
JP2013523262A (ja) 2013-06-17
EP2552556A1 (fr) 2013-02-06
SG10201502103PA (en) 2015-05-28
JP2016019748A (ja) 2016-02-04
US20110237343A1 (en) 2011-09-29
SG184297A1 (en) 2012-11-29
KR20130038252A (ko) 2013-04-17
NZ603221A (en) 2015-03-27

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US5527041A (en) Golf putting trainer
US7228649B2 (en) Golf alignment device, method and apparatus
US20210162289A1 (en) Golf Training Apparatus
US7914392B2 (en) Golf practice system, method and apparatus
JP6405018B2 (ja) ゴルフトレーニング器具、ゴルフトレーニング方法及びゴルフトレーニングシステム
US20070224583A1 (en) Compact Comprehensive Golf Swing Practice Aid and Method of Use
US20170203182A1 (en) Golf putter with training device
US9168445B2 (en) Adjustable golf training and teaching device for head and chin adjustment with stereo view of golf ball
KR20200137073A (ko) 에이밍 기능이 구비된 퍼팅정보 제공 장치
EP2758139B1 (fr) Appareil pour le golf
KR101906171B1 (ko) 레이저를 이용한 골프 연습기구
US20120157219A1 (en) Golf training and practice method and aid
KR20210076227A (ko) 골프 훈련 장치 및 이를 포함하는 골프 훈련 관리 시스템
JP4551409B2 (ja) パッティング練習キット及び方法
US20170326427A1 (en) Golf swing teaching device
KR200476024Y1 (ko) 골프용 가이드 표시 장치
US20110244990A1 (en) Golf Training Tee
EP2104539A2 (fr) Système, procédé et appareil d'entraînement au golf
US20080090673A1 (en) Golf swing training method and apparatus
KR20150136753A (ko) 골프 방향 가이드 방법 및 그 장치
WO2011123108A1 (fr) Systèmes et procédés pour l'alignement pour le putt au golf

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 201180016324.9

Country of ref document: CN

121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 11759943

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 1201005020

Country of ref document: TH

Ref document number: 2013502619

Country of ref document: JP

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 3145/KOLNP/2012

Country of ref document: IN

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 20127028065

Country of ref document: KR

Kind code of ref document: A

REEP Request for entry into the european phase

Ref document number: 2011759943

Country of ref document: EP

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 2011759943

Country of ref document: EP

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 2011229765

Country of ref document: AU

Date of ref document: 20110317

Kind code of ref document: A