Golf putter

Abstract

A golf putter for putting golf balls. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.

Description

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

This application relates to a golf putter for putting golf balls. This application further relates to a golf putter for putting golf balls that is designed to help determine the slope of the putting green, to help a user see both the golf ball and the intended target of the golf ball, and to help a user strike the ball such that the ball hits its target.

2. Background Information

Golf putters are available in many different designs. Each is typically comprised of a grip, a shaft, and a putter head, but vary in size, shape, and concept. The putter is a golf club that is typically utilized when the golf ball is located on the putting green. The purpose of the putter is to strike the ball such that the ball is put into the cup. The effectiveness of the putter is dependent upon the ability of the player to strike the ball such that a line tangent to the point of impact on the golf ball is perpendicular to the intended line of ball travel at the time of impact.

To successfully execute a putt, a player must first identify the appropriate initial line of travel. He/she then must, considering many factors, determine the correct initial speed such that the result will be that the ball ends up in or as close as possible to the cup. Finally, he/she must execute the putt properly to get the desired results.

The success of a putt shot is measured by the location of the ball relative to the cup after the putt. The most important determinant of this success is the initial speed and line of travel. Other golf shots are measured by desired direction and distance. While these are important, a non-putt can be considered effective despite some deviation from the desired results. Good touch and precise direction and initial speed are necessary to achieve the desired results when putting a golf ball.

Three common potential impediments to achieving the desired results when putting are (1) determining the slope of the green, (2) visually seeing both the golf ball and the intended target at address substantially simultaneously, and (3) striking the ball such that the desired results are achieved. This includes both having the head positioned at impact such that a line tangent to the point of contact on the ball is perpendicular to the intended initial line of ball travel and the ball must be struck such that the initial ball travel velocity is appropriate.

OBJECT OR OBJECTS

One possible object is to provide a golf putter that can help determine the slope of the putting green.

Another possible object is to provide a golf putter that can help a user see both the golf ball and the intended target at address during putting.

A further possible object is to provide a golf putter that can help a user strike the ball such that errors, such as pushing or pulling the ball, may be compensated for by the shape of the putter.

SUMMARY

The objects can be achieved in a golf putter comprising a traditional grip, a traditional shaft, and a unique putter head. In one possible embodiment, the putter head may comprise a level indicator permanently integrated into the top surface of the head directly behind the striking portion of the head. In another possible embodiment, the leveling device may be detachable. The head may further comprise a perimeter support, center weight design.

A golf putter of this embodiment with a level indicator mounted on the top surface may assist the player in determining the slope of the green in the area between the ball and the cup, and thus may minimize potential errors due to the misreading of the slope of the green. Therefore, the anticipated line of ball travel may be closer to the actual line of travel once the ball is struck than would normally be if a traditional putter were utilized. It should be noted that a putt executed perfectly would not be successful if the actual line of travel varies from the anticipated line of travel. The player's ability to execute a successful putt may be increased, as his or her ability to project the path of travel of the putt could be improved.

USGA rules prohibit players from touching the intended line of ball travel in any way. The embodiment with a level indicator mounted on the top surface may be used in any area adjacent to the intended line of travel. The level indicator feature of this embodiment may be utilized prior to addressing the ball before the putt. The player could lay the putter flat on an area, other than the intended line of travel, of the green that is to be evaluated. This flat position could be similar to the position at address. The putter could be set such that the head is positioned perpendicular to the line of ball travel that is of interest. The level indicator may then indicate the magnitude and direction of the slope at the point on the green where the head is resting.

It should be noted that many execution errors occur due to the player's inability to strike the ball with the so-called “sweet spot” or center of the striking face. A golf putter of this embodiment with a level indicator mounted in the center of the top surface directly to the rear of the center of the striking portion may tend to assist the player both in initial putter head alignment at address and in maintaining the proper alignment through impact.

Another possible embodiment could comprise a perimeter support, center weight design. In this embodiment, a left perimeter support piece could be disposed on the top left perimeter of the putter head, and a right perimeter support piece could be disposed on the top right perimeter of the putter head. The putter head could further comprise a center weight, which center weight could be disposed substantially at the center of the top of the putter head, substantially near the striking portion. Further, a putter head that consists of hard material may produce bounce at impact that varies from putt to putt, thereby resulting in inconsistent initial ball travel velocity. This negatively impacts putting performance. However, a golf putter of this embodiment with a perimeter support, center weight design may result in improved putting performance through true, consistent ball travel after impact. These weight distributions, along with the use of a particular material, such as 6061 Aluminum, for the head may ensure less bounce and better “feel” at impact.

Another possible embodiment could be comprised of a traditional shaft, a traditional grip, and a unique putter head that could have a perpendicular distance from the shaft/head interface to the striking portion, which distance may be between 1″ and 4″ greater than traditional putters. This greater distance could place the player's head such that it is turned towards the intended target. Looking down the line of travel at address and during the putting stroke may result in striking the ball such that it will closer approach the intended line of travel. The shaft/head interface could be disposed substantially at or near the rear corner of the head of the putter. The putter head may have a vertical oval opening located substantially directly to the rear of the striking portion. A removable golf ball marker may be located on the top surface of the head of the putter, to the rear of the oval opening. This embodiment could further comprise a gap, which gap may exist between the bottom of the striking portion and the putting surface at time of address.

It should be noted that when playing golf, unlike many other sporting activities such as baseball, basketball, and bowling, the player does not focus on the intended target during the actual attempt to hit the target. Rather, he or she views the target first then focuses on the ball to be struck and maintains this focus throughout the golf shot.

A golf putter of this embodiment could place the ball 1″ to 4″ further forward in the player's stance. This stance could place the player's head such that it will be turned towards the target, thus allowing him or her to look down the intended line of travel and view both the ball and the target at address and throughout the putting stroke. Having the target in view during address may result in better initial alignment of the head with the target. Having the target in view at time of impact may result in increased putting performance.

It should be noted that continually reaching down to retrieve a golf ball during play may cause some players some short term or long term discomfort. A golf putter of this embodiment may have an oval opening in the center of the head, substantially directly to the rear of the center of the striking portion such that the ball will, with minimal force, fit through it. This can be achieved by setting the putter head on the top of the ball and pushing down slightly. However, once the ball is through this opening, it could remain there when the club head is raised to the level of the player's hand because the gravitational force on the ball is insufficient to pull the ball back through the opening. The opening could be tapered open at the top to form a cradle to stabilize the ball until the player can retrieve it.

It should be noted that it might be cumbersome for a player to maintain and/or locate a golf ball marker to be placed on the putting surface to mark the ball location. It is typical to mark your ball location and pick up your ball when another player is putting. A golf putter of this embodiment could have a removable golf ball marker integrated into the top surface of the head. The ball marker could be held in a recess in the top surface of the head by a permanently installed magnet. This flat magnet is such that depressing one side of the marker may cause the other side of the marker to rise, allowing it to be easily removed. The ball marker may remain on the putter head at all times when not in use.

A golf putter of this embodiment could have a striking portion such that a gap may exist between the bottom of the striking portion and the putting surface at time of address. This may eliminate interference between this surface and the putting surface during the putting stroke. A shaft back design of this type may result in the initial direction of travel of the bottom of the striking portion to be down and back.

Yet another possible embodiment could be comprised of a traditional shaft, a traditional grip, and a head that may have a horizontally convex, dual radius of curvature striking portion, where both radii start at the center of the striking portion and extend outward. Further, a removable golf ball marker could mounted on the top surface of the head, substantially directly behind the center of the striking portion. The head may further comprise a perimeter support, center weight design.

It should be noted that many execution errors that occur during the putting stroke are the result of the point of impact being such that a line tangent to this point is not perpendicular to the intended initial line of ball travel, as is necessary to achieve the desired results. Therefore, the initial line of travel varies from the intended line of travel. A golf putter of this embodiment with a dual-radius of curvature striking portion may compensate for some of or all of the deviation of the actual initial line of ball travel from the intended during the execution of the putt.

A common execution error is when a putt is pulled. This occurs when a right-handed player strikes the ball such that it rolls inside the intended line or to the left of the hole. Typically, this may be the result of the player's hands getting ahead of his shoulders. When the shoulders are held back, the player does not properly shift his weight, thus his body will rotate about an axis which is slightly further back in his stance than would normally occur if the stroke were executed as intended. This results in the point of impact on the striking portion to be on the outboard half. The outboard half could be defined as the side of the striking portion that is farthest from the shaft/putter head interface. A convex striking portion may compensate for some of or all of this error because the line tangent to this point of contact could be rotated clockwise from what would be with a traditional flat-faced putter head.

Another common error is when a putt is pushed. This occurs when a right handed player strikes the ball such that it rolls outside of the intended line of travel or to the right of the cup. Typically this is the result of the player's shoulders getting ahead of the hands. When the hands lag, the player over-shifts his weight, thus his body will rotate about an axis that is further forward in his stance than would normally occur if the stroke was executed as intended. This results in the point of impact on the striking portion to occur on the inboard half. The inboard half could be defined as the side of the striking portion that is closest to the shaft/putter head interface. A convex striking portion may compensate for some of or all of this error because the line tangent to this point of contact will be rotated counter-clockwise from what would be with a traditional flat-faced putter head.

The natural mechanics of the human body allow the hands to get further ahead of the shoulders than the shoulders can get ahead of the hands. Therefore, the magnitude of the deviation of the actual line of initial ball travel of a pulled putt may be greater than what may occur as a result of a pushed putt. The conclusion is that the optimal putter head design will consist of two distinct radii. The radius of curvature on the outboard half, the side of the striking portion that is farthest from the shaft/putter head interface, will be such that it may compensate for errors the magnitude of which might be experienced as a result of a typical pulled putt. The radius of curvature on the inboard half, or the side of the striking portion that is closest to the shaft/putter head interface, will be such that it may compensate for errors the magnitude of which are experienced as a result of a typical pushed putt.

It should be noted that it might be cumbersome for a player to maintain and/or locate a golf ball marker to be placed on the putting surface to mark the ball location. It is typical to mark one's ball location and pick up one's ball when another player is putting. A golf putter of this embodiment could have a removable golf ball marker integrated into the top surface of the head. The ball marker could be held in a recess in the top surface of the head by a permanently installed magnet. This flat magnet could be configured such that depressing one side of the marker may cause the other side of the marker to rise, allowing it to be easily removed. The ball marker may remain on the putter head at all times when not in use.

This embodiment could further comprise a perimeter support, center weight design. In this embodiment, a left perimeter support piece could be disposed on the top left perimeter of the putter head, and a right perimeter support piece could be disposed on the top right perimeter of the putter head. The putter head could further comprise a center weight, which center weight could be disposed substantially at the center of the top of the putter head, substantially near the striking portion. Further, a putter head that consists of hard material may produce bounce at impact that varies from putt to putt, therefore resulting in inconsistent initial ball travel velocity. This negatively impacts putting performance. A golf putter of this embodiment with a perimeter support, center weight design may result in improved putting performance through true, consistent ball travel after impact. These weight distributions, along with the use of, for example, 6061 Aluminum for the head, ensures less bounce and better ‘feel’ at impact.

The above-discussed embodiments of the present invention will be described further hereinbelow. When the word “invention” or “embodiment of the invention” is used in this specification, the word “invention” or “embodiment of the invention” includes “inventions” or “embodiments of the invention”, that is the plural of “invention” or “embodiment of the invention”. By stating “invention” or “embodiment of the invention”, the Applicant does not in any way admit that the present application does not include more than one patentably and non-obviously distinct invention, and maintains that this application may include more than one patentably and non-obviously distinct invention. The Applicant hereby asserts that the disclosure of this application may include more than one invention, and, in the event that there is more than one invention, that these inventions may be patentable and non-obvious one with respect to the other.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is explained in greater detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings:

FIG. 1A is a possible embodiment of a putter shaft and putter handle according to one possible embodiment;

FIG. 1B is a possible embodiment of a putter shaft and putter handle according to one possible embodiment;

FIG. 1 is a plan view of a top view of an embodiment of a putter head;

FIG. 1C is a plan or top view similar to that shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 1D is similar to FIGS. 1 and 1C, and shows an alternate embodiment of the shaft/putter head interface;

FIG. 2 is a back elevation view of the rear, or the side opposite the striking portion, of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 2A is a view of the rear, or the side opposite the striking portion, similar to that shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 3 is an elevation or side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3A is a side view similar to that shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 3B is a side view of another possible embodiment of the putter head shown in FIGS. 3 and 3A;

FIG. 4 is a plan view of a top view of an embodiment of a putter head;

FIG. 4A is a plan or top view similar to that shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 4B is similar to FIGS. 4 and 4A, and shows an alternate embodiment of the shaft/putter head interface;

FIG. 5 is an elevation or rear view of the side opposite the striking portion of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 5A is a view of the rear, or the side opposite the striking portion, similar to that shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 6 is an elevation or side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 6B is a side view of another possible embodiment of the putter head shown in FIGS. 6 and 6A;

FIG. 6A is a side view similar to that shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 7 is a plan view of a top view of an embodiment of a putter head;

FIG. 7A is a plan or top view similar to that shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 7B is similar to FIGS. 7 and 7A, and shows an alternate embodiment of the shaft/putter head interface;

FIG. 8 is an elevation or rear view of the side opposite the striking portion of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 8A is a view of the rear, or the side opposite the striking portion, similar to that shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 9 is an elevation or side view of the left side or outboard side of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9A is a side view similar to that shown in FIG. 9;

FIG. 9B is a side view of another possible embodiment of the putter head shown in FIGS. 9 and 9A;

FIGS. 10A-10E are schematic drawings of a putter head with a curved face according to one possible embodiment;

FIGS. 11A-11E are schematic drawings of a putter head with a ball marker integrated thereon according to one possible embodiment;

FIG. 12 shows a side view and a rear view of a golf putter having a curved face according to one possible embodiment; and

FIG. 13 shows a side view and a rear view of a golf putter having a ball marker integrated thereon according to one possible embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT OR EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1A shows a possible embodiment of a putter shaft and handle, which putter shaft and handle could possibly be utilized in at least one possible embodiment. FIG. 1B shows a possible embodiment of a putter shaft and handle, which putter shaft and handle could possibly be utilized in another possible embodiment.

FIGS. 1 and 1C depict the plan or top view of this embodiment. The recess for the level indicator 1 is disposed substantially directly behind the center weight 2 on the top surface 24 of the putter head 20. The center weight 2 is disposed substantially directly behind the striking portion 21. The left perimeter support 3 is comprised of two sections, a flat section 3A and an angled or sloped section 3B, and is disposed about the left perimeter of the top surface 24 of the putter head 20. The right perimeter support 22 is comprised of two sections, a flat section 22A and an angled section 22B, and is disposed about the right perimeter of the top surface 24 of the putter head 20. The bevel 4 is disposed in the top rear surface of the putter head 20, and allows the player to retrieve the ball without reaching down to ground level. A shaft interface 23 is located substantially in the middle of the flat section 22A of the putter head 20. A shaft (see FIGS. 2A, 3A) can be inserted or connected at the shaft interface 23. FIG. 1D shows an alternate embodiment of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1. This embodiment is designed for left-handed golfers since the shaft interface 23 is positioned at the opposite flat section 22A of the putter head 20.

FIG. 2 shows a back elevation view of the rear, or the side opposite the striking portion, of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 2A also shows a back elevation view of the rear similar to that shown in FIG. 2. The back side 27 of the striking portion 21 can be seen between the center weight 2, the left perimeter support angled section 3B, and the right perimeter support angled section 22B. The bottom perimeter edge 28 of the putter head 20 can also be seen. FIG. 2A shows the shaft 23A, which shaft 23A is disposed to connect to the putter head substantially in the center of the flat section 22A of the putter head 20. FIG. 3 shows a side elevation view of the embodiment show in FIG. 1. FIG. 3A is similar to FIG. 3, and shows the shaft 23A, which shaft 23A is disposed substantially in the center of the flat section 22A of the putter head 20. FIG. 3B shows an alternate embodiment of FIGS. 3 and 3A. The embodiment shown in FIG. 3B has an angled striking portion 21, the surface of which defines an angle A in the range of greater than 0° to approximately 5° with respect to a line L perpendicular to the putting surface. In another possible embodiment, the surface of the angled striking portion 21 could define an angle A greater than 5° with respect to a line L perpendicular to the putting surface.

FIGS. 4 and 4A show a plan or top view of another possible embodiment. The shaft/head interface 7 is disposed substantially at or near the rear corner of the putter head 25. The oval opening 5 is disposed substantially directly behind the striking portion 26 on the top surface 28 of the putter head 25, and is configured to retrieve a golf ball without the use of the player's hands. The oval opening 5 is designed such that the ball will, with minimal downward force, fit through it. The recess for the integrated ball marker 6 is disposed substantially directly behind the oval opening 5 on the top surface 28 of the putter head 25. There is an angled side piece 27 on each of the left and right perimeter sides of the top surface 28 of the putter head 25. FIG. 4B shows an alternate embodiment of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4. This embodiment is designed for left-handed golfers as the shaft interface 7 is disposed substantially at or near the opposite rear corner of the putter head 25.

FIG. 5 shows a back elevation view or view of the side opposite the striking portion of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is an elevation or side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4. The cradle 8 for holding the golf ball once it is retrieved can be seen in FIGS. 5 and 6. FIGS. 5 and 6 also show the bottom surface pieces 10, which bottom surface pieces 10 are disposed about the bottom left and right perimeter edges of the putter head 25. The bottom surface pieces 10 have an angled edge 11, shown in FIG. 6. A gap 9 is shown in FIG. 6, which gap may exist between the bottom of the striking portion 26 and the ground or putting surface at time of address. The bottom surface pieces 10 cause or form the gap 9 as they are positioned to contact the ground or putting surface first and prevent the striking portion 26 from making contact with the putting surface. FIGS. 5A and 6A further show the shaft 7A, which shaft 7A is disposed substantially on or at the flat surface of the angled side piece 27 of the putter head 25. FIG. 6B shows an alternate embodiment of FIGS. 6 and 6A. The embodiment shown in FIG. 6B has an angled striking portion 26, the surface of which defines an angle A in the range of greater than 0° to approximately 5° with respect to a line L perpendicular to the putting surface. In another possible embodiment, the surface of the angled striking portion 26 could define an angle A greater than 5° with respect to a line L perpendicular to the putting surface.

FIGS. 7 and 7A show a plan view of yet another possible embodiment. The convex striking portion 31 of the putter head 30 comprises an outboard half 13 and an inboard half 12. The center weight 15 is disposed substantially directly behind the convex striking portion 31 about the center of the top surface 19 of the putter head 30. The recess for the removable ball marker 16 is disposed substantially directly behind the center weight 15 about the top surface 19 of the putter head 30. The left perimeter support 14, which is comprised of two sections, a flat section 14A and an angled section 14B, and the right perimeter support 32, which is comprised of two sections, a flat section 32A and an angled section 32B, are disposed about the top left and right perimeter edges of the putter head 30. A bevel 17 in the top rear surface of the putter head 30 allows the player to retrieve the ball without reaching down to ground level. A shaft interface 18 is located substantially in the center of the flat section 32A of the putter head 30. A shaft (see FIGS. 8A, 9A) can be inserted or connected at the shaft interface 18. FIG. 7B shows an alternate embodiment of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7A. This embodiment is designed for left-handed golfers since the shaft interface 18 is positioned at the opposite flat section 32 of the putter head 30. On the left-handed embodiment, the inboard half 12 and the outboard half 13 of the striking portion 31 would be reversed. FIG. 8 shows a back elevation view or view of the side opposite the striking portion of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 9 shows a left elevation view or outboard side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7. FIGS. 8A and 9A are similar to FIGS. 7 and 7A, and show the putter shaft 18A, which shaft 18A is disposed substantially on or at the flat section 32A of the putter head 30. The back side 50 of the striking portion 31 can be seen between the center weight 15, the left perimeter support angled section 14B, and the right perimeter support angled section 32B. The bottom perimeter edge 51 of the putter head 30 can also be seen. FIG. 9B shows an alternate embodiment of FIGS. 9 and 9A. The embodiment shown in FIG. 9B has an angled striking portion 31, the surface of which defines an angle A in the range of greater than 0° to approximately 5° with respect to a line L perpendicular to the putting surface. In another possible embodiment, the surface of the angled striking portion 31 could define an angle A greater than 5° with respect to a line L perpendicular to the putting surface.

FIGS. 10A-10E show schematic drawings of a right-handed putter head with a curved face and possible measurements and dimensions thereof, according to one possible embodiment. The measurements and dimensions given are not meant to limit the embodiment in any way, as any number of measurements and dimensions are possible. Further, a left-handed configuration of this embodiment is also possible by shifting the shaft to the opposite side of the putter head. FIG. 10A shows a top view of a putter head with a curved face and measurements and dimensions thereof. The width of this embodiment could be approximately five inches and the height could be approximately one inch.

The curved putter face could have three different curvatures, wherein the center of the face could be essentially flat, the radius of curvature of the inboard side of the putter face could be 26 inches, and the radius of curvature of the outboard side of the putter could be 28 inches. However, the radius of curvature of the inboard side could have any measurement within the range of 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, or 32 inches. Further, the radius of curvature of the outboard side could have any measurement within the range of 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, or 32 inches. The radius of the curvature of the putter face could be greater than any of the other dimensions of the putter, and should not exceed the length of the shaft.

FIG. 10B shows a cross-sectional view of the putter head along the line A-A in FIG. 10A and gives possible measurements and dimensions for the putter head. FIG. 10C shows a broken cross-sectional view of the putter head along the line B-B in FIG. 10E and gives possible measurements and dimensions for the putter head. FIG. 10D shows a rear view of the putter head with a shaft connected thereon. The angle of the shaft is approximately 17°, and could be between the range of 14°, 15°, 16°, 17°, 18°, 19°, and 20° in other possible embodiments. The bottom portion of the putter head is shown to angle upwards by approximately 7.1° on each side of the putter head, and could be between 6.1°, 6.2°, 6.3°, 6.4°, 6.5°, 6.6°, 6.7°, 6.8°, 6.9°, 7.0°, 7.1°, 7.2°, 7.3°, 7.4°, 7.5°, 7.6°, 7.7°, 7.8°, 7.9°, 8.0°, and 8.1° in other possible embodiments. FIG. 10E shows a side view of the putter head and gives possible measurements and dimensions for the putter head. The slope of the side portion of the putter head could be approximately 30°, which angle could be between the range of 23°, 24°, 25°, 26°, 27°, 28°, 29°, 30°, 31°, 32°, 33°, 34°, 35°, and 36° in other possible embodiments.

FIGS. 11A-11E are similar to FIGS. 10A-10E, but show schematic drawings of a right-handed putter head with a flat face and a ball marker integrated thereon, and possible measurements and dimensions thereof, according to one possible embodiment. The measurements and dimensions given are not meant to limit the embodiment in any way, as any number of measurements and dimensions are possible. Further, a left-handed configuration of this embodiment is also possible by shifting the shaft to the opposite side of the putter head.

FIG. 12 shows a side view and a rear view of a putter with a curved face according to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A-10E. The putter head has a shaft attached thereto. FIG. 13 shows a side view and a rear view of a putter with a flat face and a ball marker attached thereon according to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 11A-11E. The putter head has a shaft attached thereto.

It should be noted that any number of combinations of the above features could be used together to form an embodiment of a golf putter. For example, a putter with a curved face could have a ball marker attached thereto and could be wider by one to four inches for improved putting. In addition, a putter with a flat face could comprise a level indicator for determining the slope of the green. Further, a putter with a curved face could comprise a level indicator for determining the slope of the green. Any number of combinations of the above described features could be included in another possible embodiment.

One feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a golf putter comprising: a putter head being configured and disposed to strike a golf ball; said putter head comprising: a curved, convex striking portion being disposed at the front, in use, of said putter head; said curved, convex striking portion being configured and disposed to strike a golf ball; said curved, convex striking portion comprising a curved inboard portion being disposed towards the golfer, in use, a curved outboard portion being disposed opposite the golfer, in use, and a substantially flat striking portion being disposed between said inboard portion and said outboard portion; said outboard portion having a radius of curvature in the range of 15 inches to 32 inches; said inboard portion having a radius of curvature in the range of 17 inches to 35 inches; said inboard radius of curvature being configured and disposed to substantially correct the line of travel of a golf ball upon a putt being pulled by a golfer; said outboard radius of curvature being configured and disposed to substantially correct the line of travel of a golf ball upon a putt being pushed by a golfer; a removable golf ball marker being disposed on the top surface, in use, of said putter head, and substantially directly behind the center of said striking portion; a left perimeter support part being disposed about the top left perimeter, in use, of said putter head; said left perimeter support part comprising a flat section and an angled section; a right perimeter support part being disposed about the top right perimeter, in use, of said putter head; said right perimeter support part comprising a flat section and an angled section; a bevel being disposed in the top rear surface, in use, of said putter head; said bevel being configured to pick up a golf ball without the use of the hands of a user; a center weight part being disposed substantially directly behind said striking portion and disposed about the top surface, in use, of said putter head; said center weight piece being configured to minimize noise produced by impact upon a golf ball being struck by a golfer; a shaft extending from the top of one side of said putter head; said shaft being disposed at an angle relative to said striking portion, said angle being in the range of 14 degrees to 20 degrees; a grip being disposed at the top of said shaft.

Another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a golf putter, wherein: said outboard portion has a radius of curvature in the range of 18 inches to 26 inches; and said inboard portion has a radius of curvature in the range of 20 inches to 32 inches.

Yet another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a golf putter, wherein: said outboard portion has a radius of curvature of 28 inches; and said inboard portion has a radius of curvature of 26 inches.

Still another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a gulf putter, comprising: a shaft interface disposed substantially at or near the rear corner, in use, of said putter head; a perpendicular distance between said striking portion and said shaft interface of between 1½ inches to 5 inches.

A further feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a golf putter, comprising: a vertical opening or void disposed substantially directly behind the center of said striking portion; said vertical opening or void being slightly smaller than a standard golf ball; said vertical opening or void being configured and disposed to encompass a golf ball on the ground by use of downward force in order to retrieve a golf ball without the use of the hands of a golfer; and said vertical opening or void being configured to hold a golf ball upon its retrieval from the ground by a golfer.

Another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a gulf putter, comprising: a level indicator disposed on the top surface, in use, of said putter head; said level indicator being disposed substantially directly behind said center weight piece; said level indicator being configured to indicate the slope of the green at the local point on the putting green where said putter head is resting, in order to minimize errors in reading the green.

Yet another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a golf putter head comprising: a curved, convex striking portion being disposed at the front, in use, of said putter head; said curved, convex striking portion being configured and disposed to strike a golf ball; said curved, convex striking portion comprising a curved inboard portion being disposed towards the golfer, in use, a curved outboard portion being disposed opposite the golfer, in use, and a substantially flat striking portion being disposed between said inboard portion and said outboard portion; and said inboard radius of curvature and said outboard radius of curvature being configured and disposed to substantially correct the line of travel of a golf ball when a putt is pulled or pushed by a golfer.

Still another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a golf putter head, wherein said outboard portion has a radius of curvature in the range of 15 inches to 32 inches.

A further feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a golf putter head, wherein said inboard portion has a radius of curvature in the range of 17 inches to 35 inches.

Another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a golf putter head, wherein said outboard portion has a radius of curvature in the range of 18 inches to 26 inches.

Yet another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a golf putter head, wherein said inboard portion has a radius of curvature in the range of 20 inches to 32 inches.

Still another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a golf putter head, wherein said outboard portion has a radius of curvature of 28 inches.

A further feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a golf putter head, wherein said inboard portion has a radius of curvature of 26 inches.

Another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a gulf putter head, comprising a removable golf ball marker being disposed on the top surface, in use, of said putter head, and substantially directly behind the center of said striking portion.

Yet another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a gulf putter head, comprising: a shaft interface disposed substantially at or near the rear corner, in use, of said putter head; a perpendicular distance between said striking portion and said shaft interface being between 1 inch to 4 inches greater than traditional putters.

Still another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a golf putter head, comprising: a vertical opening or void disposed substantially directly behind the center of said striking portion; said vertical opening or void being slightly smaller than a standard golf ball; said vertical opening or void being configured and disposed to encompass a golf ball on the ground by use of downward force in order to retrieve a golf ball without the use of the hands of a golfer; and said vertical opening or void being configured to hold a golf ball upon its retrieval from the ground by a golfer.

A further feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a gulf putter head, comprising: a level indicator disposed on the top surface, in use, of said putter head; said level indicator being disposed substantially directly behind said center weight piece; said level indicator being configured to indicate the slope of the green at the local point on the putting green where said putter head is resting, in order to minimize errors in reading the green.

Another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a golf putter head, comprising: a left perimeter support part being disposed about the top left perimeter, in use, of said putter head; said left perimeter support part comprising a flat section and an angled section; a right perimeter support part being disposed about the top right perimeter, in use, of said putter head; and said right perimeter support part comprising a flat section and an angled section.

Yet another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a golf putter head, comprising: a bevel being disposed in the top rear surface, in use, of said putter head; said bevel being configured to pick up a golf ball without the use of the hands of a user.

Still another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a golf putter head, comprising: a center weight part being disposed substantially directly behind said striking portion and disposed about the top surface, in use, of said putter head; said center weight piece being configured to minimize noise produced by impact upon a golf ball being struck by a golfer.

Some examples of golf putters which may possibly be utilized or adapted for use in at least one possible embodiment may possibly be found in the following U.S. Pat. No. 4,664,385, entitled “Golf putter;” U.S. Pat. No. 4,795,158, entitled “Golf putter;” U.S. Pat. No. 4,917,384, entitled “Golf club;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,098,103, entitled “Fixed compensating loft golf club head;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,209,470, entitled “Golf green slope reading method;” No. 5,292,128, entitled “Putter;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,303,923, entitled “Golf putter;” No. 5,382,019, entitled “Golf putter;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,333,873, entitled “Bulge putter;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,344,149, entitled “Golf putter;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,460,375, entitled “Golf ball putter;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,632,484, entitled “Bubble level device, attachable to the grip of a golf club;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,707,299, entitled “Level indicating golf putter;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,709,613, entitled “Adjustable back-shaft golf putter;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,792,003, entitled “Golf putter;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,857,922, entitled “Golf putting club;” U.S. Pat. No. 6,095,933, entitled “Simplified green slope indicator;” U.S. Pat. No. 6,142,884, entitled “Adjustable golf putter;” No. 6,155,933, entitled “Golf putter with spherically curved club head;” No. 6,200,226, entitled “Golf putter;” U.S. Pat. No. 6,623,372, entitled “Golf putter with adjustable shaft and adjustable hosel;” and US Publication No. 20020147055, entitled “Golf putter, ball retriever, ball marker, and putting green repair device.”

The components disclosed in the various publications, disclosed or incorporated by reference herein, may possibly be used in possible embodiments of the present invention, as well as equivalents thereof.

The purpose of the statements about the technical field is generally to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public to determine quickly, from a cursory inspection, the nature of this patent application. The description of the technical field is believed, at the time of the filing of this patent application, to adequately describe the technical field of this patent application. However, the description of the technical field may not be completely applicable to the claims as originally filed in this patent application, as amended during prosecution of this patent application, and as ultimately allowed in any patent issuing from this patent application. Therefore, any statements made relating to the technical field are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.

Some examples of putter grips which may possibly be utilized or adapted for use in at least one possible embodiment may possibly be found in the following U.S. Pat. No. 6,626,768, entitled “Putter grip;” No. D464,694, entitled “Putter grip;” U.S. Pat. No. 6,123,625, entitled “Grip for golf putter;” No. D408,461, entitled “Golf putter grip;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,795,241, entitled “Golf putter hand grip;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,669,823, entitled “Adjustable putter grip;” No. D379,837, entitled “Golf putter grip;” U.S. Pat. No. 4,272,077, entitled “Golf club putter grip;” U.S. Pat. No. 4,067,573, entitled “Putter hand grip;” No. D355,463, entitled “Golf putter grip;” No. D355,011, entitled “Golf putter grip;” and No. D258,750, entitled “Putter grip.”

The appended drawings in their entirety, including all dimensions, proportions and/or shapes in at least one embodiment of the invention, are accurate and are hereby included by reference into this specification.

The background information is believed, at the time of the filing of this patent application, to adequately provide background information for this patent application. However, the background information may not be completely applicable to the claims as originally filed in this patent application, as amended during prosecution of this patent application, and as ultimately allowed in any patent issuing from this patent application. Therefore, any statements made relating to the background information are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.

Some examples of golf putter shafts which may possibly be utilized or adapted for use in at least one possible embodiment may possibly be found in the following U.S. Pat. No. 5,653,644, entitled “Golf putter shaft;” No. D380,802, entitled “Fluted golf putter shaft;” No. D369,394, entitled “Golf club putter handle and shaft;” No. D369,195, entitled “Putter shaft;” No. D364,436, entitled “Adjustable length shaft for a golf putter;” and No. D363,519, entitled “Variable length putter shaft.”

All, or substantially all, of the components and methods of the various embodiments may be used with at least one embodiment or all of the embodiments, if more than one embodiment is described herein.

The purpose of the statements about the object or objects is generally to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public to determine quickly, from a cursory inspection, the nature of this patent application. The description of the object or objects is believed, at the time of the filing of this patent application, to adequately describe the object or objects of this patent application. However, the description of the object or objects may not be completely applicable to the claims as originally filed in this patent application, as amended during prosecution of this patent application, and as ultimately allowed in any patent issuing from this patent application. Therefore, any statements made relating to the object or objects are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.

Some examples of golf putter leveling devices which may possibly be utilized or adapted for use in at least one possible embodiment may possibly be found in the following U.S. Pat. No. 5,865,689, entitled “Golf-leveler device;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,820,476, entitled “Golf putter leveling system;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,755,623, entitled “Level accessory for golf putters;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,632,484, entitled “Bubble level device, attachable to the grip of a golf club;” No. D306,335, entitled “Snap-on level for golf putters;” and U.S. Pat. No. 4,079,520, entitled “Level bubble for a golf club.”

All of the patents, patent applications and publications recited herein, and in the Declaration attached hereto, are hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in their entirety herein.

The summary is believed, at the time of the filing of this patent application, to adequately summarize this patent application. However, portions or all of the information contained in the summary may not be completely applicable to the claims as originally filed in this patent application, as amended during prosecution of this patent application, and as ultimately allowed in any patent issuing from this patent application. Therefore, any statements made relating to the summary are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.

Some examples of golf ball markers which may possibly be utilized or adapted for use in at least one possible embodiment may possibly be found in the following U.S. Pat. No. D480,444, entitled “Golf ball marker;” No. D472,289, entitled “Golf ball marker;” U.S. Pat. No. 6,394,916, entitled “All-in-one golf ball marker and position indicator;” U.S. Pat. No. 6,386,995, entitled “Golf ball marker and method;” No. D456,476, entitled “Golf ball marker;” U.S. Pat. No. 6,125,747, entitled “Golf ball marker;” U.S. Pat. No. 6,077,174, entitled “Golf ball marker;” No. D405,858, entitled “Golf ball marker;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,743,103, entitled “Golf ball marker;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,282,616, entitled “golf ball marker;” U.S. Pat. No. 4,489,444, entitled “Golf ball marker holder;” and No. D266,445, entitled “Golf ball marker holder.”

It will be understood that the examples of patents, published patent applications, and other documents which are included in this application and which are referred to in paragraphs which state “Some examples of . . . which may possibly be used in at least one possible embodiment of the present application . . . ” may possibly not be used or useable in any one or more embodiments of the application.

The sentence immediately above relates to patents, published patent applications and other documents either incorporated by reference or not incorporated by reference.

All of the references and documents, cited in any of the documents cited herein, are hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in their entirety herein. All of the documents cited herein, referred to in the immediately preceding sentence, include all of the patents, patent applications and publications cited anywhere in the present application.

The description of the embodiment or embodiments is believed, at the time of the filing of this patent application, to adequately describe the embodiment or embodiments of this patent application. However, portions of the description of the embodiment or embodiments may not be completely applicable to the claims as originally filed in this patent application, as amended during prosecution of this patent application, and as ultimately allowed in any patent issuing from this patent application. Therefore, any statements made relating to the embodiment or embodiments are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.

The details in the patents, patent applications and publications may be considered to be incorporable, at applicant's option, into the claims during prosecution as further limitations in the claims to patentably distinguish any amended claims from any applied prior art.

The purpose of the title of this patent application is generally to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public to determine quickly, from a cursory inspection, the nature of this patent application. The title is believed, at the time of the filing of this patent application, to adequately reflect the general nature of this patent application. However, the title may not be completely applicable to the technical field, the object or objects, the summary, the description of the embodiment or embodiments, and the claims as originally filed in this patent application, as amended during prosecution of this patent application, and as ultimately allowed in any patent issuing from this patent application. Therefore, the title is not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.

The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b):

• • A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims.
    Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.

The embodiments of the invention described herein above in the context of the preferred embodiments are not to be taken as limiting the embodiments of the invention to all of the provided details thereof, since modifications and variations thereof may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments of the invention.

Claims

1. A golf putter comprising:

a putter head being configured and disposed to strike a golf ball;

said putter head comprising: a curved, convex striking portion being disposed at the front, in use, of said putter head; said curved, convex striking portion being configured and disposed to strike a golf ball; said curved, convex striking portion comprising a curved inboard portion being disposed towards the golfer, in use, a curved outboard portion being disposed opposite the golfer, in use, and a substantially flat striking portion being disposed between said inboard portion and said outboard portion; said outboard portion having a radius of curvature in the range of 15 inches to 32 inches; said inboard portion having a radius of curvature in the range of 17 inches to 35 inches; said inboard radius of curvature being configured and disposed to substantially correct the line of travel of a golf ball upon a putt being pulled by a golfer; said outboard radius of curvature being configured and disposed to substantially correct the line of travel of a golf ball upon a putt being pushed by a golfer; a removable golf ball marker being disposed on the top surface, in use, of said putter head, and substantially directly behind the center of said striking portion; a left perimeter support part being disposed about the top left perimeter, in use, of said putter head; said left perimeter support part comprising a flat section and an angled section; a right perimeter support part being disposed about the top right perimeter, in use, of said putter head; said right perimeter support part comprising a flat section and an angled section; a bevel being disposed in the top rear surface, in use, of said putter head; said bevel being configured to pick up a golf ball without the use of the hands of a user; a center weight part being disposed substantially directly behind said striking portion and disposed about the top surface, in use, of said putter head; said center weight piece being configured to minimize noise produced by impact upon a golf ball being struck by a golfer; a shaft extending from the top of one side of said putter head; said shaft being disposed at an angle relative to said striking portion, said angle being in the range of 14 degrees to 20 degrees; a grip being disposed at the top of said shaft.

2. The golf putter according to claim 1, wherein:

said outboard portion has a radius of curvature in the range of 18 inches to 26 inches; and

said inboard portion has a radius of curvature in the range of 20 inches to 32 inches.

3. The golf putter according to claim 2, wherein:

said outboard portion has a radius of curvature of 28 inches; and

said inboard portion has a radius of curvature of 26 inches.

4. The gulf putter according to claim 3, comprising:

a shaft interface disposed substantially at or near the rear corner, in use, of said putter head;

a perpendicular distance between said striking portion and said shaft interface of between 11/2 inches to 5 inches.

5. The golf putter according to claim 4, comprising:

a vertical opening or void disposed substantially directly behind the center of said striking portion;

said vertical opening or void being slightly smaller than a standard golf ball;

said vertical opening or void being configured and disposed to encompass a golf ball on the ground by use of downward force in order to retrieve a golf ball without the use of the hands of a golfer; and

said vertical opening or void being configured to hold a golf ball upon its retrieval from the ground by a golfer.

6. The gulf putter according to claim 5, comprising:

a level indicator disposed on the top surface, in use, of said putter head;

said level indicator being disposed substantially directly behind said center weight piece;

said level indicator being configured to indicate the slope of the green at the local point on the putting green where said putter head is resting, in order to minimize errors in reading the green.

7. A golf putter head comprising:

a curved, convex striking portion being disposed at the front, in use, of said putter head;

said curved, convex striking portion being configured and disposed to strike a golf ball;

said curved, convex striking portion comprising a curved inboard portion being disposed towards the golfer, in use, a curved outboard portion being disposed opposite the golfer, in use, and a substantially flat striking portion being disposed between said inboard portion and said outboard portion; and

said inboard radius of curvature and said outboard radius of curvature being configured and disposed to substantially correct the line of travel of a golf ball when a putt is pulled or pushed by a golfer.

8. The golf putter head according to claim 7, wherein said outboard portion has a radius of curvature in the range of 15 inches to 32 inches.

9. The golf putter head according to claim 8, wherein said inboard portion has a radius of curvature in the range of 17 inches to 35 inches.

10. The golf putter head according to claim 9, wherein said outboard portion has a radius of curvature in the range of 18 inches to 26 inches.

11. The golf putter head according to claim 10, wherein said inboard portion has a radius of curvature in the range of 20 inches to 32 inches.

12. The golf putter head according to claim 11, wherein said outboard portion has a radius of curvature of 28 inches.

13. The golf putter head according to claim 12, wherein said inboard portion has a radius of curvature of 26 inches.

14. The gulf putter head according to claim 13, comprising a removable golf ball marker being disposed on the top surface, in use, of said putter head, and substantially directly behind the center of said striking portion.

15. The gulf putter head according to claim 14, comprising:

a shaft interface disposed substantially at or near the rear corner, in use, of said putter head;

a perpendicular distance between said striking portion and said shaft interface being between 1 inch to 4 inches greater than traditional putters.

16. The golf putter head according to claim 15, comprising:

a vertical opening or void disposed substantially directly behind the center of said striking portion;

said vertical opening or void being slightly smaller than a standard golf ball;

said vertical opening or void being configured and disposed to encompass a golf ball on the ground by use of downward force in order to retrieve a golf ball without the use of the hands of a golfer; and

said vertical opening or void being configured to hold a golf ball upon its retrieval from the ground by a golfer.

17. The gulf putter head according to claim 16, comprising:

a level indicator disposed on the top surface, in use, of said putter head;

said level indicator being disposed substantially directly behind said center weight piece;

said level indicator being configured to indicate the slope of the green at the local point on the putting green where said putter head is resting, in order to minimize errors in reading the green.

18. The golf putter head according to claim 17, comprising:

a left perimeter support part being disposed about the top left perimeter, in use, of said putter head;

said left perimeter support part comprising a flat section and an angled section;

a right perimeter support part being disposed about the top right perimeter, in use, of said putter head; and

said right perimeter support part comprising a flat section and an angled section.

19. The golf putter head according to claim 18, comprising:

a bevel being disposed in the top rear surface, in use, of said putter head;

said bevel being configured to pick up a golf ball without the use of the hands of a user.

20. The golf putter head according to claim 19, comprising:

a center weight part being disposed substantially directly behind said striking portion and disposed about the top surface, in use, of said putter head;

said center weight piece being configured to minimize noise produced by impact upon a golf ball being struck by a golfer.