COMBINATION FLAGSTICK AND BALL RETRIEVAL DEVICE

Abstract

A combination flagstick and ball retrieval device include an elongated flagstick having a top end and a bottom end. A ferrule is positioned along the bottom end of the flagstick, and a ball retrieval device is secured along the flagstick at a location adjacent to the ferrule. Both the ferrule and the ball retrieval device include a shape and size that is suitable for engaging a golf course cup. The ball retrieval device includes a generally circular frame having a central aperture and a slotted channel for receiving a connector that is secured onto the flagstick. The connector including protrusions to engage the slotted channel. The ball retrieval device also includes a malleable and resilient upper member having an outside diameter that is greater than the outside diameter of the frame member.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Application Ser. No. 62/926,025 filed on Oct. 25, 2019 and U.S. Application Ser. No. 62/930,795 filed on Nov. 5, 2019, the contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The following disclosure relates generally to the game of golf, and more particularly to a regulation sized golf flagstick and a flagstick-mounted golf ball retrieval device.

BACKGROUND

The statements in this section merely provide background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

In 2019, the United States Golf Association amended its rules by removing a penalty imposed on a player whose ball strikes the flagstick that is left in the hole when putting from the green. The rule was removed in an attempt to speed up the game by allowing players more freedom to putt at their discretion.

Although the rule change has been received well by the players, many golf courses have noticed an increase in damage to the greens as a result. More specifically, courses are reporting a significant increase in damage to the putting greens along the periphery of the hole, as players are using their putters to remove their ball from the hole, rather than bending down to remove their ball with their hands.

Accordingly, it would be beneficial to provide a regulation sized golf flagstick and a flagstick-mounted ball retrieval device for use on a golf course hole that allows users to retrieve their golf ball from the hole without having to bend down and manually retrieve the same. It would also be beneficial to provide writings such as advertisements onto the ball retrieval device in a manner that will be seen by users while utilizing the device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a combination flagstick and ball retrieval device. One embodiment of the present invention can include an elongated flagstick having a top end and a bottom end. A flag or flag connector can be positioned along the top end of the flagstick, and a ferrule can be positioned along the bottom end of the flagstick. A ball retrieval device can be secured along the flagstick, at a location adjacent to the ferrule. Both the ferrule and the ball retrieval device can include a shape and size that is suitable for engaging a golf course cup having an open top end, a continuous sidewall, a capped bottom end and a ferrule opening along the capped bottom end.

In one embodiment, the ball retrieval device can include a generally circular frame having a central aperture and a slotted channel. The central aperture can receive a connector that is secured onto the flagstick and protrusions on the connector engage the slotted channel to lock the ball retrieval device to the connector and the flagstick.

In one embodiment, the ball retrieval device can include a malleable and resilient upper member. The upper member can also include a circular shape and can have an outside diameter that is greater than the outside diameter of the frame member.

This summary is provided merely to introduce certain concepts and not to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Presently preferred embodiments are shown in the drawings. It should be appreciated, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a combination flagstick and ball retrieval device that is useful for understanding the inventive concepts disclosed herein.

FIG. 2 is a cutout view of the bottom end of the flagstick of the combination flagstick and ball retrieval device, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3A is a bottom perspective view of the ball retrieval device of the combination flagstick and ball retrieval device, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3B is a bottom perspective view of the ball retrieval device of the combination flagstick and ball retrieval device, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3C is a side view of the ball retrieval device of the combination flagstick and ball retrieval device, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the combination flagstick and ball retrieval device in operation, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4B is another perspective view of the combination flagstick and ball retrieval device in operation, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4C is yet another perspective view of the combination flagstick and ball retrieval device in operation, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While the specification concludes with claims defining the features of the invention that are regarded as novel, it is believed that the invention will be better understood from a consideration of the description in conjunction with the drawings. As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention which can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the inventive arrangements in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting but rather to provide an understandable description of the invention.

Although described as pertaining to USGA rules and specific sizes for use with cups and holds on golf courses, this is for illustrative purposes only. To this end, the inventive device can include any number of different shapes and sizes suitable for use with cups and holes of different shapes and sizes in accordance with the golf rules of any number of different countries, regions or formats.

Definitions

As described herein, the term “removably secured,” and derivatives thereof shall be used to describe a situation wherein two or more objects are joined together in a non-permanent manner so as to allow the same objects to be repeatedly joined and separated.

As described throughout this document, the term “complementary shape,” and “complementary dimension,” shall be used to describe a shape and size of a component that is identical to, or substantially identical to the shape and size of another identified component within a tolerance such as, for example, manufacturing tolerances, measurement tolerances or the like.

As described herein, the terms “connector” and “complementary connector” include any number of different elements that work together to repeatedly join two items together in a nonpermanent manner. Several nonlimiting examples include opposing strips of hook and loop material (i.e. Velcro®), attractively-oriented magnetic elements, flexible strips of interlocking projections with a slider (i.e., zipper), tethers, buckles such as side release buckles, and compression fittings such as T-handle rubber draw latches, hooks, snaps and buttons, for example. Each illustrated connector and complementary connector can be permanently secured to the illustrated portion of the device via a permanent sealer such as glue, adhesive tape, or stitching, for example.

FIGS. 1-4C illustrate one embodiment of a combination flagstick and ball retrieval device 10 for use with the game of golf. In each of the drawings, identical reference numerals are used for like elements of the invention or elements of like function. For the sake of clarity, only those reference numerals are shown in the individual figures which are necessary for the description of the respective figure. For purposes of this description, the terms “upper,” “bottom,” “right,” “left,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in FIG. 1.

As shown in FIG. 1, one embodiment of the device 10 can include, a golf course cup 11, an elongated flagstick 12, and a ball retrieval device 30 that can be secured to the flagstick.

In one embodiment, the golf course cup 11 can include a continuous sidewall 11a having an open top end 11b, a capped bottom end 11c, and a central opening 11d that is positioned along the bottom end of the cup to receive the flagstick. In the preferred embodiment, the cup 11 can include a USGA mandated height (distance between top and bottom ends) of at least 4 inches, and an outside diameter of 4.25 inches; however other shapes and sizes are also contemplated.

As will be described below, the cup 11 can be positioned within a hole that is dug into a golf course green so that the top end 11b is positioned approximately 1-2 inches from the playing surface. Although described as a part of the device 10, other embodiments are contemplated wherein the flagstick can be configured for use with an existing golf course cup or a cup that is manufactured and/or sold separate from the system components.

In one embodiment, the flagstick 12 can include, comprise or consist of an elongated shaft having a USGA recommended outside diameter of between 0.5 to 0.75 inches, and a length (from end to end) of approximately 7 ft. In the preferred embodiment, the flagstick can be constructed from fiberglass, but any number of other materials that are relatively strong and stiff for their weight are also contemplated.

In one embodiment, a ferrule 13 can be positioned along the bottom end of the flagstick. The ferrule can include a complementary shape and diameter as the central opening 11d of the golf cup 11, so as to be removably positioned therein. Likewise, a flag 14 or other such marker can be provided along the top end of the flagstick, as is known in the art.

Although described above as including a specific dimension, shape or length, this is for illustrative purposes only. To this end, the flagstick can include any number of different dimensions and sizes and can be provided in multiple segments which can be serially connected to achieve different heights.

As shown best at FIG. 2, the device 10 can include a connector 20 for securing the ball retrieval device 30 onto the flagstick 12 in either a permanent or removable manner. In the preferred embodiment, the connector 20 can include a generally circular-shaped body 21 having a central opening 22 and a pair of locking tabs 23 extending outward from the outside surface of the body. The central opening 22 can include a diameter that is complementary to the outside diameter of the flagstick 12 so as to be positioned thereon.

In one embodiment, the connector can be constructed from two identical halves and can further include a tightening screw 24 to allow a user to secure the connector 20 onto the flagstick 12 at a precise location along the length of the flagstick. Of course, any number of other devices capable of adjusting the diameter of the central opening so as to selectively tighten or loosen the connector onto the flagstick are also contemplated.

Although described above as including a distinct connector, other embodiments are contemplated wherein the connector can be incorporated into the design of the below described ball retrieval device 30 so as to allow the same to be removably secured onto the flagstick 12 and/or ferrule using any number of different techniques.

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate one embodiment of the ball retrieval device 30, which can be secured to the flagstick 12 via the connector 20, in order to allow a user to remove a golf ball from the cup 11 by simply grasping the flagstick and removing the same.

In one embodiment, the ball retrieval device 30 can include a generally circular-shaped frame member 31 having an outside edge 31a, and a central aperture 32. A channel 33 having a pair of generally L-shaped slots 34 can be positioned along the periphery of the aperture 32 and can extend downward from the bottom surface of the frame 31. The frame member 31 and channel 33 can preferably be constructed from a rigid material such as plastic, for example, however other construction materials are also contemplated.

In one embodiment, the central aperture 32, and the channel 33 can include a cross sectional shape, and inside diameter that is complementary to the cross sectional shape, and outside diameter of the connector body 21 so as to receive the same. Likewise, each of the slots 34 can be positioned so as to receive one of the locking tabs 23 via an upward and twisting motion. Such a feature functioning to secure the ball retrieval device onto the connector.

In one embodiment, the ball retrieval device 30 can include a generally malleable and resilient upper member 35 that can be positioned along the top surface of the circular-shaped frame member 31. As shown, the upper member 35 can include an outer edge 35a, a middle section 35b, and a raised central aperture 36 having a complementary shape, size and location as the central aperture 32 and central channel 33.

In the preferred embodiment, the malleable upper member 35 can be constructed from a soft and impact absorbing material such as foam, silicone and/or rubber, for example. The use of a soft material advantageously functions to absorb the impact force encountered by a golf ball entering the hole and making contact with the upper member, so as to prevent the ball from bouncing out. Such a feature being particularly advantageous when the device 10 is in the “hands free” position demonstrated at FIG. 4C, for example. Of course, any number of other soft, malleable materials are also contemplated.

In the preferred embodiment, the upper member 35 can include a curvilinear shape whereby the middle section 35b is located beneath the central aperture 36 and beneath the outer edge 35a. The middle section thus forming a recessed channel having a plurality of drain holes 37 which extend through both the upper member and frame member. The recessed channel also functioning to provide a track in which a golf ball can rest once entering the cup and during removal of the same.

In the preferred embodiment, the outer edge 35a of the upper member 35 comprises an outside diameter that is less than, or complementary to the inside diameter of the cup 11. Moreover, the outside diameter of the outside edge 35a is greater than the outside diameter of the outside edge 31a of the rigid frame member. Such a feature is important in order to ensure that only the soft malleable material of the upper member 35 makes contact with the sides of the cup and the turf surrounding the cup when the flagstick 12 and device 30 is being removed and reinserted into the cup after a ball has been retrieved.

Although described above as including specific shapes, sizes and construction materials, this is for illustrative purposes only, as both the frame member and the upper member may be constructed to include different shapes and sizes than described.

In one embodiment, any number of decorative elements 41 can be positioned along the device 10, and preferably along the ball retrieval device 30. As described herein a “decorative element” can include any number and type of different colors, markings, words, shapes, symbols, logos, designs, types of materials, texturing of materials, patterns, images, and photographs, for example. These elements can be used to convey any type of information such as golf course name, hole number, playing rules and/or advertisements, for example, and can be secured onto and/or into the device in accordance with known techniques so as to be flush with the surface thereof, recessed, raised and/or protruding outward therefrom, so as to give a three dimensional effect.

FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate one embodiment of the device 10 in operation. As shown, the cup 11 can be positioned within a hole 1 preferably at a depth of approximately two inches from the playing surface 2, and the flagstick 12 and ball retrieval device can be positioned therein. Once a user putts their ball 5 into the hole, the ball will rest on the upper member 35. Next, the user can lift the flagstick 12 from the cup 11 at which time the ball 5 will be removed from the cup via the upper member. As noted above, because the outer surface 35a of the device is constructed from a soft and resilient material, the system ensures that no damage will be caused to the playing surface 2 or edges of the hole 1, while inserting or removing the components from the cup.

As noted above, the connector 20 can position the ball retrieval device 30 at any location along the flagstick 12. As such, FIG. 4C illustrates one embodiment of the device 10 in the “hands free” position where the ball retrieval device 30 is positioned a set distance from the bottom end 11c of the cup so as to be close (e.g., 1-3 inches) to the playing surface 2. Such a feature allowing a user to remove the ball 5 from the hole 1 via a pushing motion with their putter, and thus eliminating the need to touch or remove the flagstick itself. Such a feature being advantageous in preventing the spread of contagions such as COVID-19. Moreover, because the top surface 35 is constructed from an impact dampening material, the ball will not bounce out of the hole as would happen with a hard material.

As described herein, one or more elements of the flagstick and ball retrieval device 10 can be secured together utilizing any number of known attachment means such as, for example, screws, glue, compression fittings and welds, among others. Moreover, although the above embodiments have been described as including separate individual elements, the inventive concepts disclosed herein are not so limiting. To this end, one of skill in the art will recognize that one or more individually identified elements may be formed together as one or more continuous elements, either through manufacturing processes, such as welding, casting, or molding, or through the use of a singular piece of material milled or machined with the aforementioned components forming identifiable sections thereof.

As to a further description of the manner and use of the present invention, the same should be apparent from the above description. Accordingly, no further discussion relating to the manner of usage and operation will be provided.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. Likewise, the terms “consisting” shall be used to describe only those components identified. In each instance where a device comprises certain elements, it will inherently consist of each of those identified elements as well.

The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Claims

1. A flagstick and ball retrieval device, comprising:

an elongated flagstick having a top end and a bottom end;

a ferrule that is positioned along the bottom end of the flagstick; and

a ball retrieval device that is in communication with the elongated flagstick,

wherein each of the ferrule and the ball retrieval device are configured to be positioned within a golf course cup located on a playing surface of a golf course.

2. The device of claim 1, further comprising:

a connector that is secured onto the flagstick at a location adjacent to the flagstick.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the ball retrieval device is removably secured onto the connector.

4. The device of claim 2, wherein the ball retrieval device is permanently secured onto the connector.

5. The device of claim 2, wherein the connector includes a main body having a central opening for engaging the flagstick.

6. The device of claim 5, wherein the ball retrieval device includes a generally circular-shaped frame member having a central aperture and an outside edge.

7. The device of claim 6, wherein the main body of the connector is removably positioned within the central aperture of the ball retrieval device.

8. The device of claim 6, further comprising:

a pair of locking tabs that extend outward from the main body of the connector;

9. The device of claim 8, further comprising:

a channel that is located along a periphery of the central aperture and extends downward from a bottom surface of the circular-shaped frame member; and

a pair of slots that are positioned along the channel.

10. The device of claim 9, wherein the pair of locking tabs are configured to engage the pair of slots via a twisting motion to secure the ball retrieval device to the connector and the flagstick.

11. The device of claim 1, further comprising:

a golf course cup having a continuous side wall, an open top end, a closed bottom end, and a central opening for engaging the ferrule.