Pendular golf position alignment and golf swing training devices and methods, especially for use with putters and similar clubs to train golfers

Abstract

Devices, apparatus, kits and methods for providing alignment, positioning and swing guidance and feedback to a golfer in learning or improving putting and similar skills are provided. Devices and apparatus of the invention comprise a pendular component, and are constructed and arranged for use in aligning the parts of a putter with respect to a target golf ball, with respect to the golfer, and with respect to the target hole. Apparatus and methods of the invention also provide both dynamic and static feedback to a golfer or to an observing instructor, as well as guidance before, during, and after the golf club is swung or otherwise moved. Devices, apparatus and methods of the invention are useful as teaching and training tools to aid in learning, improving and perfecting skills for the game and sport of golf.

Description

PRIORITY STATEMENT

Applicant hereby claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/813,689, filed Apr. 12, 2007, and entitled Golf Alignment Training Devices, Apparatus And Methods, Especially For Use With Putters And Similar Clubs, and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/996,759, filed Dec. 4, 2007, and entitled Pendular Devices, Methods And Apparatus For Training Golfers To Properly Align And Swing Putters And Similar Clubs. All the materials and information comprising the disclosures provided in the above-identified applications are hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to apparatus, devices, kits and methods for providing guidance and feedback to a golfer in learning or improving putting and similar skills. Moreover, the invention includes devices, apparatus and methods for aligning the parts of a putter or other short-play club, with respect to a target golf ball, with respect to the golfer, and with respect to the target hole. Apparatus and methods of the invention also provide feedback of both static and dynamic natures as well as guidance before, during, and after the golf club is swung or otherwise moved. Devices and methods of the invention are therefore useful as teaching and training tools to aid in learning, improving and perfecting skills for the game and sport of golf.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The game and sport of golf requires athletic finesse and precision. In one important aspect, the golfer's swing must coordinate complex body movement with the physics of club movement in order to strike a target ball such that it travels a desired path. Thus, the several angles of the club head, the golfer's movement of the club in three axes, the smoothness of the swing, and the angle of incidence of the club head face are all crucial to a successful putting technique. The rate and extent of movement of the golfer and club with respect to these several axes and angles is difficult to coordinate, especially for those players new to the game.

In addition to the abstract angles, such as the angle of the club shaft, the direction and path of the swing, and possible terrain over which the ball must move. Variations in golf course surfaces and textures are quite common. Thus, great demands are made on the skill and experience of the operator.

Many attempts to deal with teaching golfing techniques have been made. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,722,999 to Yi, discloses a golf putting training device for quickly attaching to a golf putter including a ball alignment arm comprising a sight gap along the length of the arm. The arm and gap are aligned perpendicular to the clubface, and thus in the direction of desired travel of the target ball. The site gap of Yi is used to position the alignment arm directly over a center of the golf ball and next to the putter head. However, Yi is constructed and arranged for rigid attachment to a golf club shaft and thus cannot measure the rate or degree of movement of the shaft or head.

Chiesa, U.S. Pat. No. 4,789,158, discloses a sighting or aiming device to show a line or path of the golf ball to be impacted by a golf club comprising a rod projecting forwardly from the base head to be aligned parallel with the club head and a pointer selectively mounted at different positions along the length of the rod, normal to the access of the rod and length of the rod, normal to the access of the rod and the club head. The elements of Chiesa are rigidly attached to the golf club shaft and therefore cannot measure the rate or degree of movement of the shaft or the club head with respect to the ball.

Thornton, U.S. Pat. No. 4,949,971, discloses a golf-training aide having a rotatable t-shaped pointer, which is rigidly mounted to a block. In turn, block is rigidly attached, by means of screws, to the golf club shaft. As in Chiesa and Yi, Thornton has no parts or elements that move with respect to the club head or shaft.

Johnson, U.S. Pat. No. 5,143,376, discloses a golf club swinging guide that can be adjustably attached to a golf club shaft. The guide is provided with a vane that is pivotally connected to a mount such that the vane visibly aligns itself in the direction that the golf club is swung. The vane of Johnson moves primarily with respect to wind created by movement of the club and is therefore subject to atmospheric wind and other disturbances, which thereby render it incapable of measuring the rate of the golfer's swing.

Grey, U.S. Pat. No. 5,605,509, discloses a training/playing aide for clamping on the shaft of a golf club for use in the measurement of movement in degrees that the golfer comes over the top of the golf ball at impact. Grey is provided with an arm that is rigidly attached to a golf club shaft. In turn, a pointer is slidably mounted on the attachment arm such that the pointer can be moved or adjusted with respect to the golf club head.

Chang, U.S. Pat. No. 5,762,564, discloses a golf putter alignment device including a torsion spring clamp that firmly but releasable engages the golf club shaft or a hosel of a golf club putter. An elongated positioning rod is provided to be slidably and rotationally disposed for positioning purposes such that an alignment pointer can be adjusted to fit a particular club. Nonetheless, the present invention addresses the problems of learning putting technique much better than any previously known techniques or devices.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to remedy the drawbacks of the prior art by providing devices, methods and apparatus for properly aligning the putter head with the target ball, and for aligning dynamically the movement of the club with respect to several parameters.

Another object of the present invention is to provide methods and apparatus for providing dynamic feedback to the player using a club to which the apparatus is attached.

A further object of the invention is to provide such apparatus in forms which are easy to manufacture, convenient to transport, and easy to attach to a club shaft, or other part of a putter or similar club, for example a golf-teaching putter.

In accordance with these and other objects, one critical component of the invention is an alignment pendulum. An alignment pendulum according to the invention is constructed and arranged such that it responds to gravity and other accelerations and forces to thereby maintain stability, and to provide positional guidance with respect to the parts of a golf club, in at least one axis important to the movement of a golf putter or similar club.

In some preferred embodiments, a connector is used to facilitate the free rotation of the alignment pendulum in at least two axes. For example, a movable joint, such as an alignment pendulum swing arm connector can be constructed and arranged to connect the alignment pendulum to the swing arm such that the alignment pendulum responds freely, in at least two axes, to the forces of gravity, the forces of acceleration, and other forces applied by the golfer or as a result of striking the ball. In some embodiments, the swing arm is connected to the shaft of the club, typically by attachment means, such as a clamp. Thus, the swing arm connector functions to connect the swing arm to the club shaft at an appropriate angle such that the swing arm is disposed parallel to the ground and perpendicular the desired direction of the club swing and the ball travel. During the swing, the rotation of the swing arm connector and the pendulum with respect to one another, with respect to the club shaft and face, and with respect to the target ball and the ground upon which it is positioned can be modulated by the golfer.

In some embodiments, each of the facets of the alignment pendulum is aligned parallel to the other facets. Also, each of the alignment facets has a width. The top leading facet of the alignment pendulum is more narrow in width than the bottom leading facet, and the top trailing facet of the alignment pendulum is more narrow in width than the bottom facet of the alignment pendulum.

Thus, the respective widths are adapted and arranged such that, when viewed from the top, in a position wherein the golfer's eye is vertically over the ball and putter head, the margins of the bottom facets can be observed on both sides of the top facets. Thus, in one important aspect, devices of the invention enable alignment of the golfer's eye vertically to the ball and putter head along the Z Axis, parallel to the desired path of the ball along the Z axis, and perpendicular to the ground.

Thus the alignment pendulum of the invention comprises a positional indicator constructed and arranged to provide alignment, movement and directional information with respect to the position and movement of a golf club to which it is attached or of which it is connected. The present invention includes any embodiment of an alignment pendulum that permits alignment of the club with respect to the ball in at least two axes. For example, the invention includes alignment pendulum embodiments where a portion of the pendulum is centered with respect to one or more portions of the ball, as well as embodiments of the pendulum wherein the ball is oriented with respect to the club by a visual alignment portion which provides a visual framework for at least a portion of the ball.

In accordance with the overall function and spirit of the invention, a ball or other bearing, or any type of gimbaled mechanism can be adapted and arranged to cooperate with the pendulum and other components to provide the necessary rotational freedom of movement. Moreover, the desired strike area of the putter head face does not have to be in the center of the putter face. Instead, it can be in any portion of the putter face which is constructed and arranged to be the sweet spot of the putter face, or any portion of the face which is desired to be the target striking area for making contact with the ball.

In some embodiments, slits in the top and bottom rails of the pendulum are constricted and arranged such that aligning the slits with one another over an indicator line disposed on the putter head, preferably parallel, ensures the alignment of the putter face, putter shaft, and golfer's eye. As examples, the invention includes wherein the alignment pendulum is constructed and arranged such that at least a portion of the ball is visually framed by a portion of the pendulum, such as wherein the pendulum comprises a curvature, arch or V-shape which partially frames, or visually “cups” at least a portion of the ball. Other embodiments include wherein the ball is framed by a circular or ovoid portion or aperture in the pendulum.

Another example of an alignment pendulum according to the invention is wherein the pendulum is constructed and arranged to include at least one laser or laser means. The laser means can be adapted and arranged to delineate one or more of the axes of alignment utilized by the device of the invention. For example, a laser can be incorporated into the alignment pendulum and adapted and arranged to project a solid or intermittent beam in the desired direction of travel of the target ball.

The laser means can also be adapted to project a visible line intersecting the club face or extending from the club face toward a desired direction, for example, toward a desired direction of travel for the target ball. Another example of an embodiment of a laser-utilizing alignment pendulum according to the invention is wherein a laser is provided on, in, or in proximity to, the club head, and the alignment pendulum comprises at least one mirror or at least one beam-splitter to direct the laser beam in at least one desired direction.

In yet other embodiments, one or more lasers can be adapted and arranged within, on, or attached to the pendulum such that a line or plane is projected from the laser to project the likely path of the ball,

Preferably, some preferred embodiments of the invention are adapted and arranged to indicate when the golfer's eye is directly over the ball and the center of the club, and others are constructed and arranged such that the ball can be aligned otherwise if desired, for example, other than at the center of the club face. In practice, the golfer using the device attached to a putter will adjust her stroke such that the alignment pendulum stays parallel to the desired direction of travel of the target ball throughout the swing, thereby helping the golfer create a smooth stroke, which is preferred in the golfing arts. Devices of the invention can also include dampening means for dampening the movement of the alignment pendulum. A device of the invention thus operates to detect minimal error in the swing while conferring the desired degree of reproducible feedback of the device.

In other preferred embodiments, the gimbaled element of the invention may be replaced, for example with a free-moving ball and cup joint to thereby provide means by which the alignment pendulum can maintain positional stability in the functional context of the invention. One embodiment of an apparatus according to the invention can be formed such that the angle at which the horizontal support coupling meets the club shaft is adjustable.

As one of skill in the art can appreciate, the apparatus, methods and processes of the invention are adaptable to produce many kinds of dynamic feedback device varieties, including those integrated with a putter head, shaft or handle. In other words, the invention encompasses any apparatus which is constructed and arranged to provide the desired degrees of feedback in at least one axis or plane regarding the movement of the club, such as a putter, with respect to the ball.

In some preferred embodiments, the alignment pendulum is constructed and arranged such that the relative movement is adjustable to suit a desired result, for example, offset to emphasize the movement in one axis over the movement in other axes. In accordance with additional advantages of the invention, the relative positions of the alignment pendulum with respect to the shaft of the club can be constructed and arranged to provide alignment markings in desired spacing arrangements with respect to one another relative to their positions on the shaft, with respect to the ball, and with respect to the club face.

Thus, in one aspect, the invention comprises means for aligning a putter or similar golf club with a target ball. In another aspect, the invention comprises means for providing dynamic feedback as the player moves the club, strikes the target ball, and follows through. A key advantage of devices of the invention, is that they provide instructional feedback of a dynamic nature, that is, feedback which occurs as the club is in motion, as it is slowed to rest, and after it stops. This instructional feedback is also one of the goals of devices of the invention. Such feedback is useful in teaching the golfer the proper rate and direction of motion for successfully using a particular golf club to controllably strike a target golf ball to thereby produce the desired path of travel for the ball.

A key aspect of the invention thus pertains to the relative movement of the pendulum, and related components, with respect to other parts of the device, and in relation to the club to which it is attached, and also to the ball. In some preferred embodiments, this movement occurs in at least one axis. In other embodiments, this movement occurs in at least two axes, and, in still other embodiments, this movement occurs in three axes.

An important aspect of the invention therefore relates to the rotational characteristics of the pendulum and other parts of the device. This rotation, which can occur around one, two or three axes, can be facilitated by any type of bearing, or combination of bearings, which allow the desired degree, rate and extent of rotation about the one or more axes. As examples, the invention may employ sliding bearings, such as those comprising bushes, bushings or journals, sleeve bearings, rifle bearings, or plain bearings. Other suitable bearings include rolling-element bearings such as ball bearings and roller bearings, jeweled bearings, in which the load is carried by rolling the axle slightly off-center, fluid bearings, in which the load is carried by a gas or liquid, for example, a lubricating fluid comprising one or more natural or synthetic oils.

Other fluid bearings suitable for use with the invention include those which employ gases, such as air, to reduce the friction of movement between the pendular components of devices of the invention and the platform or element upon which the articulate. One example of this is wherein curved surface, such as a spherical surface, is provided with dimples or pocks which are constructed and arranged such that they hold trapped air or a lubricant to thereby decrease the amount of surface area, and thus friction, between the pendular element and the base upon which it moves. This feature is illustrated in FIGS. 18-24.

Also suitable for use with the invention are magnetic bearings, in which the load is carried by magnetic field, and flexure bearings, in which the motion is supported by a load element that bends about an axis. Magnetic or fluid bearings can be used in embodiments of the device that are adapted to be highly sensitive to gradations, slope or degrees of movement.

The bearing surfaces may be of any material, or combination of materials, which provide the desired degree, rate and extent of rotation about the one or more axes. Such materials include, but are not limited to, woods, ceramics, sapphire or glass, steel, bronze, titanium and other metals, and plastics such as nylon, polyoxymethylene, PTFE (polytetrafluoro-ethylene) and ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), also known as high modulus polyethylene (HMPE) or high performance polyethylene (HPPE).

In another advantageous aspect, any of the bearings for use with the invention can be provided with desired coefficients of friction. In accordance with this aspect, the rate of movement of the pendulum with respect to the one or more bearing surfaces can be set as needed to produce the desired rates of movement or response delay of the pendulums if desired.

Common kinds of rotary motion include both one-direction rotation and oscillation where the motion only goes through part of a revolution, for example, essentially in one plane. In some preferred embodiments of the invention, the alignment pendulum is adapted and arranged to oscillate in a plane perpendicular to the club face. In other preferred embodiments, the pendulum oscillates in at least two planes, including that in the direction of desired ball travel and through the center of the club head. Other kinds of bearings include spherical bearings such as ball joints which are exemplified in car suspensions and some computer mice. Hemispherical bearings, or those whose bearing surface replicates part of a sphere, such as 80% thereof, or 40% thereof, are also within the scope of the invention. Combinations of these bearing types can even be employed with the same bearing. An example of this is where the cage is made of plastic, and it separates the rollers/balls, which reduce friction by their shape and finish.

In some embodiments of bearing elements of the invention, dry or fluid lubricants can be used. If full-film conditions apply, the bearing's load is carried solely by a film of fluid lubricant, there being no contact direct between the two bearing surfaces. In this condition, they are known as fluid bearings. In mix or boundary conditions, load is carried partly by direct surface contacts and partly by a film forming between the two. In a non-lubricated, or dry condition, the full load is carried by surface-to-surface contact between the respective bearing surfaces of the pendular element and its journals or mounts.

As an example, one common plain bearing design is to adapt a hardened and polished steel shaft to a soft bronze bushing. In such designs the softer bronze portion can be allowed to wear away, to be periodically renewed. For example, in one embodiment of the invention, a steel shaft is adapted and arranged as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 such that hardened steel can be used for shaft 19 while swing arm-pendulum connector 31 can be provided in soft bronze.

Plain ‘self-lubricating’ bearings utilize porous journals within which a lubricant is infused and held. As the bearing operates and lubricant is displaced from the bearing surface, more is carried in from non-wear parts of the bearing. Dry plain bearings can be made of a variety of materials, including polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) which is commonly available under several brand names, including Teflon®. PTFE is a synthetic fluoro-polymer which has an extremely low coefficient of friction and is thus particularly useful for bearings of the dry or wet type. Moreover, PTFE is very non-reactive, and so is resistant to the corrosive effects of outdoor use where golf equipment is commonly exposed to weather effects such as rain and rapid temperature changes. Other suitable materials include graphite, graphite/metal (Graphalloy) and ceramic. The ceramic is very hard, and sand and other grit which enter the bearing are simply ground to a fine powder and thus does not inhibit the operation of the bearing.

Solid polymer plain bearings are now increasingly popular due to dry-running lubrication-free behavior, and are adaptable to use with many embodiments of the invention. Polymer plain bearings can also be provided as plastic bushings for use with the invention. Solid polymer plain bearings give low weight and corrosion resistance, as well as the freedom from maintenance and lubrication to thereby provide bearing embodiments for numerous applications in the invention. Managing without lubrication is the dream of every design engineer. Polymer coated plain bearings, which comprise a metal shell provided with a very thin polymer coating (usually PTFE or the like) applied to the relevant surfaces.

A spherical bearing is a bearing that permits angular rotation about a central point in two orthogonal directions within a specified angular limit based on the bearing geometry. Typically these bearings support a rotating shaft in the bore of the inner ring that must move not only rotationally, but also at an angle. Construction of spherical bearings can be hydrostatic or strictly mechanical. A spherical bearing by itself can consist of an outer ring and an inner ring and a locking feature that makes the inner ring captive within the outer ring in the axial direction only. The outer surface of the inner ring and the inner surface of the outer ring are collectively considered the raceway and they slide against each other, either with a lubricant or a maintenance-free PTFE (Teflon brand, for example) based liner. Some spherical bearings incorporate a race of hall-bearings allowing much more smooth operation.

Curved but non-spherical bearings, where the respective curvatures of the mating surfaces are constructed and arranged such that the pendulum “bottoms out” when it is in desired positions, or tends to self-center or equilibrate at a desired angle, position or cant, can be provided also. Thus, a device according to the invention can be constructed and arranged so that the alignment pendulum has one or more “low positions” or “detents” by which the pendulum is biased into certain positions or stops. A pendulum according to the invention may thereby be provided with “desired position” detents or low positions so that a golfer may use them in order to position the club with respect to at least two axes.

As another advantage, the invention acts as an accelerometer to indicate not only the degree of accuracy of the motion of the club but also the relative rate of the golfer's swing. Thus, a golfer can use the device to hone skills such as club speed, acceleration and follow-through. In other significant aspects, a device of the invention may comprise a computer that is enabled and adapted to measure the acceleration or deceleration of the club head, shaft or other portions.

A needle bearing is also suitable for use with devices of the present invention. Such bearings are sometimes found in compasses where an upwardly pointing needle point is disposed into a cup in the center of the needle so that the compass pointer can “swing” in three axes under the influences of both gravity and magnetic fields. In other embodiments of types of needle bearings, a needle may be disposed downwardly into a cup such that anything attached to the needle is free to rotate about at least two axes.

In yet other embodiments of the invention, the pendulum arm may comprise a bearing, such as a needle bearing or a ball bearing, disposed such that the alignment pendulum swings in two or more axes from the arm. As examples, the support arm may be provided with a curved or spherical bearing head provided on a shaft extending upwardly from the arm, while the pendulum may be provided with a cup corresponding to the curvature of the bearing head. These configurations of the invention have the advantages of simplifying construction, decreasing the number of parts necessary to produce the invention, and being thrifty in terms of cost and time of manufacture.

Moreover, the invention may be provided with changeable bearings such that the degree of motion, sensitivity to swing, and configuration of the dynamic feedback of the device may be adapted to suit various golfers or golfing styles. As one of skill in the art can appreciate, the examples of bearings provided herein are exemplary only, and do not limit the type, style, configuration, presentation or adaptation of a bearing or bearings suitable for use with the invention.

In accordance with the many advantages and objects of the invention, in one aspect the invention comprises a device for providing alignment and feedback information with respect to the positioning and swing or other movement of a golf club, the golf club comprising a head having a face, a shaft and a handle, the device comprising an alignment pendulum, wherein the pendulum is adapted and arranged to respond to gravitational and other accelerations in at least one axis; and means for operatively connecting the alignment pendulum to the golf club.

Thus, in a key aspect, devices of the invention are useful for providing learning and teaching information such as static and motion feedback with respect to accelerations such as one or more selected from the group including the acceleration of the club head with respect to the golfer's hands, the acceleration of the club head with respect to the ball, the acceleration of the club head with respect to the pendulum, the acceleration of the club shaft with respect to the pendulum, the acceleration of the club shaft with respect to the pendulum, and the acceleration of any portion of the club with respect to the ground.

In some preferred embodiments, the means for operatively connecting the alignment pendulum to the golf club comprises a swing-arm adapted and arranged for connecting the pendulum to the shaft of the golf club. In other preferred embodiments, the means for operatively connecting the alignment pendulum to the golf club preferably further comprises a connector adapted and arranged for rotatably connecting the pendulum to the swing arm, for example, a gimbaled connector.

In another key aspect, a pendulum of the invention is adapted and arranged for providing feedback regarding the motion of the club with respect to at least one parameter, or alignment information regarding the relative positions of the various parts of the club, the target ball, the target golf hole, and the golfer. Examples of parameters which can be assessed by the invention include one or more from the group of motion parameters comprising the club head speed, the rate of change of club head speed with respect to the ball, the rate of change of club head speed with respect to the ground, the angular speed of the club shaft with respect to the ground, and the angular speed of the club shaft with respect to the club head, and the angular speed of the club head with respect to the pendulum.

As another key aspect, an alignment pendulum of the invention is free to respond to gravitational and other accelerations in one axis, and wherein the one axis allows rotation in a first plane substantially perpendicular to the club face. Thus adapted, a pendulum of the invention gives feedback or alignment information substantially or approximately in a plane aligned perpendicularly with respect to the club face.

In some preferred embodiments, a pendulum of the invention is free to respond to gravitational and other accelerations in at least two axes, and the two axes are aligned to allow rotation in a first plane substantially perpendicular to the club face and in a second plane substantially parallel to the club face. The precise positioning of the planes is dependent upon the relative positions of the pendulum and its disposition with respect to the components of the golf club as well as the golfer. Advantageously, these possible variations in the relative positions of the planes provide for many variations in the use of the invention. In still other preferred embodiments, pendulums of the invention are free to respond to gravitational and other accelerations in three axes.

Pendulums of the invention are available in numerous embodiments. For example, in one preferred embodiment, a pendulum of the invention comprises top and bottom rails, wherein the top and bottom rails are each adapted and arranged such that a golfer positioned in a golfing stance with respect to the club can visually align the club with respect to the relative positions of the rails, and with respect to one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground. In some railed embodiments of pendulums of the invention, the bottom rail is thicker in width than the top rail such that, when the pendulum is viewed from above by a golfer holding the club to which it is attached, one or more of the inner and outer margins of the lower rail extend beyond the margins of the top rail. Thus, the relative positions of the pendulum rails can be used to center the pendulum with respect to, for example, the club face and the ball. These relative positions can be emphasized by visual contrasts between the top and bottom rails, such as by providing the rails in contrasting colors or reflective values.

In accordance with other advantageous aspects of the invention, the means for connecting the alignment pendulum to the swing arm may comprise a connector disposed for rotatably attaching the pendulum to a support connected to the club shaft, club handle or club head. The support is typically a swing arm as described elsewhere herein but could be any support that is adapted and arranged to connect the pendulum to the club in such a way that the desired degrees of freedom of movement of the pendulum are obtained.

In some preferred embodiments, a connector suitable for use in the invention comprises a first journal and a second journal, or a first set of axially aligned journals and a second set of axially aligned journals. Advantageously, these two journals or sets of journals lie in planes perpendicular to one another such that the pendulum can rotate in two axes. Being disposed in two perpendicular axes, the two axes allow rotation in a first plane disposed substantially perpendicularly to the club face and in a second plane disposed substantially parallel to the club face. As those familiar with golf clubs, golfing stances, and the relative positions of those clubs and stances will appreciate, the perpendicularity of the axes and planes associated with the invention permits a desired variation with respect to the positions of the planes with respect to the golfer, the various portions of the clubs, the target ball, and the target cup. With this variability, Thus

In other words, in yet another advantageous aspect, although substantial perpendicularity of the axes and planes remains, the relative positions of the two planes with respect to the golfer, the various portions of the clubs, the target ball, and the target cup can be varied to suit a particular golfing style, method or predilection. For example, while one golfer may prefer to use the invention to align the ball precisely in the center of the club face, precisely in the plane pointed at the target cup, and precisely below the center of the pendulum, other golfers may prefer to employ the inventions otherwise.

In other preferred embodiments of a pendulum of the invention, the alignment pendulum comprises a body, and at least one indicator bridge, the bridge disposed above the body and the bridge including at least one facet comprising a plurality of indicator markings, at least one distance indicator alignment means, such as an indicator blade, and means for fixedly attaching the blade to the swingarm, wherein the device further includes at least one support to hold the bridge with respect to the swingarm, and further wherein the device is adapted and arranged such that a golfer positioned in a golfing stance with respect to the club can visually align the club with respect to the relative positions of one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground.

In accordance with other advantageous aspects of the invention, the means for connecting the alignment pendulum to the swing arm may comprise a connector disposed for rotatably attaching the pendulum to a support connected to the club shaft, club handle or club head. The support is typically a swing arm as described elsewhere herein but could be any support that is adapted and arranged to connect the pendulum to the club in such a way that the desired degrees of freedom of movement of the pendulum are obtained. In some preferred embodiments, a connector suitable for use in the invention comprises a first journal and a second journal, or a first set of axially aligned journals and a second set of axially aligned journals. Advantageously, these two journals or sets of journals lie in planes perpendicular to one another such that the pendulum can rotate in two axes. Being disposed in two perpendicular axes, the two axes allow rotation in a first plane disposed substantially perpendicularly to the club face and in a second plane disposed substantially parallel to the club face. As those familiar with golf clubs, golfing stances, and the relative positions of those clubs and stances will appreciate, the perpendicularity of the axes and planes associated with the invention permits a desired variation with respect to the positions of the planes with respect to the golfer, the various portions of the clubs, the target ball, and the target cup.

As a further advantageous aspect, the alignment pendulum may comprise at least one swing pin, wherein the at least one swing pin is adapted and arranged for connecting the pendulum rotatably to one of the first and second journals of the connector such that the pendulum can rotate in two axes, and wherein the two axes allow rotation in a plane substantially perpendicular to the club face and substantially parallel to the club face.

Thus disposed, pendulums of the invention include those that are adapted and arranged such that the movement, or lack of movement, of the indicator with respect to the indicator markings can indicate the relative position of the pendulum or portions of the club when not in motion, or can indicate the motion of the club with respect to one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground.

In yet other preferred embodiments, an alignment pendulum according to the invention may comprise an arcuate body, the body having an arcuate top ridge, a centerline, a lower margin, an inner alignment edge, and an outer alignment edge, such that the inner and outer alignment edges are disposed opposite to one another on the lower margin, and at least one of the alignment edges is provided with spaced indentations disposed for indicating the relative position of the pendulum. In such embodiments, the device is thus adapted and arranged such that a golfer positioned in a golfing stance with respect to the club can visually align the club with respect to the relative positions of one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground.

In other preferred embodiments, both the inner and outer alignment edges can be provided with spaced indentations. With the indentations thus disposed, the golfer, or an instructor observing the golfer, may use the device in a plurality of alignment and motion arrangements and positions.

As in some other preferred embodiments, the alignment pendulum can be adapted and arranged to rotate in two axes, wherein the two axes are adapted and arranged to allow rotation in a first plane substantially perpendicular to the club face and in a second plane substantially parallel to the club face. Also as in some other preferred embodiments, a device of the invention is adapted and arranged such that the movement or lack of movement of the indicator with respect to the indicator markings indicates the relative motion of the club with respect to one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground.

In still other preferred embodiments, an alignment pendulum according to the invention may comprise an arcuate body, the body having an arcuate top ridge, a centerline, a centered arcuate lower margin, an inner alignment edge, and an outer alignment edge, wherein the inner and outer alignment edges are disposed opposite to one another on the lower margin, and at least one of the alignment edges is provided with spaced pins disposed for indicating the relative position of the pendulum, and wherein the device is adapted and arranged such that a golfer positioned in a golfing stance with respect to the club can visually align the club with respect to the relative positions of one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground. In similar embodiments, both inner and outer alignment edges of the pendulum can be provided with spaced pins. The spacings and shapes of the pins can be adapted and arranged to suit many factors. As examples and not as limiting factors, the pins may be pointed or truncated cones, truncated cylinders, arranged perpendicular or at an angle to the surface of the alignment edges, and at any desired positions or patterns on the pendulum.

As in other preferred embodiments, the alignment pendulum is preferably adapted and arranged to rotate in two axes such that the two axes allow rotation in both a first-plane substantially perpendicular to the club face and in a second plane substantially parallel to the club face. Thus disposed, the pendulum is adapted and arranged such that the movement or lack of movement of the indicator with respect to the indicator markings indicates the relative motion of the club with respect to one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground.

In other embodiments, a pendulum of the invention is adapted and arranged for providing both alignment information, and feedback information when the club is in motion, and after it comes to a rest, and comprises a laser operatively connected to the golf club, wherein the laser provides light in at least one plane such that a golfer positioned in a golfing stance with respect to the club can visually align the club with respect to the relative positions of one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground. As an additional preferred option, a laser may provides light in at least two planes, wherein the alignment pendulum is adapted and arranged to rotate in two axes, and wherein the two axes allow rotation in a first plane substantially perpendicular to the club face and in a second plane substantially parallel to the club face.

In yet other advantageous embodiments, the invention comprises one or more connectors adapted and arranged to include curved bearing surfaces disposed for rotatably receiving one or more different types of pendulums. In such embodiments, the connector comprises a surface, the surface comprising a curved portion, such as a portion of a sphere, the portion of the sphere comprises a bearing surface, and the alignment pendulum comprises a front arm and a rear arm. The front and rear arms are preferably disposed diametrically opposite to one another and substantially within a vertical plane.

The arms may be connected, for example, by a cap or ring portion, wherein the ring portion is adapted and arranged to rotate and revolve on the bearing surface portions of the sphere in response to movement of the club to which it is mounted or attached. Thus adapted and arranged, a golfer positioned in a stance with respect to the club can visually align the club with respect to the relative positions of one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground. Moreover, one or more of the curved surface, the front arm and the rear arm, may include indicator markings disposed for determining, among other things, the relative positions of the pendulum and portions of the club as well as for showing the relative position and movement of these components before, during and after movement of the club.

In embodiments wherein the connector comprises a curved portion, such as a spherical portion, the bearing surface can be disposed above or below the swing arm. In some preferred embodiments, the alignment pendulum can be adapted and arranged to rotate in two axes, wherein the two axes allow rotation both in a plane substantially perpendicular to the club face and in a plane substantially parallel to the club face. In other embodiments, the alignment pendulum may be adapted and arranged to be free to rotate in three axes.

In those embodiments where the pendulum is free to rotate in two axes only, the connector and the pendulum may be provided with means for interconnecting them such that both their relative perpendicularity and freedom to rotate are preserved. As an example, the pendulum can be provided with one or more pins, and the spherical surface may be provided with one or more complementary grooves, such that the one or more pins are disposed for articulating within the one or more grooves such that the pendulum is free to rotate in the two desired axes and wherein the two axes allow rotation in a plane substantially perpendicular to the club face and substantially parallel to the club face.

As in other embodiments, the device is adapted and arranged such that the movement or lack of movement of the indicator with respect to the indicator markings indicates the relative motion of the club with respect to one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground.

In even more advantageous embodiments of devices according to the invention, the alignment pendulum may comprise a front frame forming a front opening and a rear frame forming a rear opening, the front and rear frames and openings being disposed diametrically opposite to one another and substantially within a plane, wherein the front and rear frames are adapted and arranged such that at least a portion of a target ball in the vicinity of the club face is visible to a golfer through at least one of the front and rear openings. The pendulum may further comprise one or more pins such that the pendulum is adapted and arranged to rotate on the one or more pins in response to movement of the club to which it is mounted or attached, such that a golfer positioned in a golfing stance with respect to the club can visually align the club with respect to the relative positions of one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground.

As yet another advantage, devices of the invention can be provide in combination with one or more of a golf club head, a golf club shaft, and a golf club, such as a putter or other short-play club, for example, a chipping wedge. Moreover, golf clubs or their components can be manufactured to include one or means for attaching a device of the invention to one or more of a golf club head, a golf club shaft, and a golf club.

In accordance with yet additional advantages of the invention, methods for learning and teaching golfing skills are provided. The present devices are adapted and arranged to be utilized by golfing instructors as well as golf beginners, students of golf, and golf veterans seeking to improve golfing skills, as well as observers of golfers. Devices of the invention are constructed and arranged so they can be used and observed not only by the golfer using a club to which they are attached but also by a nearby instructor or other observer.

The present invention advantageously provides methods for providing alignment information, motion feedback information, or both, to a golfer or to a golf instructor regarding the positioning and movement of the several portions of a golf club in the hands of the golfer, the golf club comprising a head having a face, a shaft and a handle, the method comprising the steps of A. providing an alignment pendulum, wherein the pendulum is adapted and arranged to be alignable with respect to a target golf ball, and to move in response to gravitational and other accelerations in at least one axis, and B. providing means for operatively connecting the alignment pendulum to the golf club.

The invention provides also methods for providing feedback regarding the swing of a golf club to a golfer or to a golfing instructor, the golf club comprising a head having a face, a shaft and a handle, the method comprising the steps of 1, providing an alignment pendulum, wherein the pendulum is adapted and arranged to respond to gravitational and other accelerations in at least one axis, and 2, providing means for operatively connecting the alignment pendulum to the golf club.

Thus, in a key aspect, devices of the invention are useful for providing learning and teaching information such as the feedback with respect to accelerations such as one or more selected from the group including the acceleration of the club head with respect to the golfer's hands, the acceleration of the club head with respect to the ball, the acceleration of the club head with respect to the pendulum, the acceleration of the club shaft with respect to the pendulum, the acceleration of the club shaft with respect to the pendulum, and the acceleration of any portion of the club with respect to the ground.

In some preferred embodiments, the means for operatively connecting the alignment pendulum to the golf club comprises a swing-arm adapted and arranged for connecting the pendulum to the shaft of the golf club. In other preferred embodiments, the means for operatively connecting the alignment pendulum to the golf club preferably further comprises a connector adapted and arranged for rotatably connecting the pendulum to the swing arm, for example, a gimbaled connector.

In another key aspect, a pendulum of the invention is adapted and arranged for providing feedback regarding the motion of the club with respect to at least one parameter, or alignment information regarding the relative positions of the various parts of the club, the target ball, the target golf hole, and the golfer. Examples of parameters which can be assessed by the invention include one or more from the group of motion parameters comprising the club head speed, the rate of change of club head speed with respect to the ball, the rate of change of club head speed with respect to the ground, the angular speed of the club shaft with respect to the ground, and the angular speed of the club shaft with respect to the club head, and the angular speed of the club head with respect to the pendulum.

As another key aspect, an alignment pendulum of the invention is free to respond to gravitational and other accelerations in one axis, and wherein the one axis allows rotation in a first plane substantially perpendicular to the club face. Thus adapted, a pendulum of the invention gives feedback or alignment information substantially or approximately in a plane aligned perpendicularly with respect to the club face.

In some preferred embodiments of methods of the invention, a pendulum of the invention is free to respond to gravitational and other accelerations in at least two axes, and the two axes are aligned to allow rotation in a first plane substantially perpendicular to the club face and in a second plane substantially parallel to the club face. The precise positioning of the planes is dependent upon the relative positions of the portions or parts of the golf club and the pendulum, whether one or more of the club or pendulum are in motion.

Thus, in a key aspect, devices of the invention are useful for providing learning and teaching information such as y providing feedback with respect to accelerations such as one or more selected from the group including the acceleration of the club head with respect to the golfer's hands, the acceleration of the club head with respect to the ball, the acceleration of the club head with respect to the pendulum, the acceleration of the club shaft with respect to the pendulum, the acceleration of the club shaft with respect to the pendulum, and the acceleration of any portion of the club with respect to the ground.

In some preferred embodiments, the means for operatively connecting the alignment pendulum to the golf club comprises a swing-arm adapted and arranged for connecting the pendulum to the shaft of the golf club. In other preferred embodiments, the means for operatively connecting the alignment pendulum to the golf club preferably further comprises a connector adapted and arranged for rotatably connecting the pendulum to the swing arm, for example, a gimbaled connector.

DESCRIPTIONS OF THE FIGURES

The accompanying Images and Figures show examples of preferred embodiments of some salient components of the invention by way of example only. In the following descriptions of FIGS. 1-28, like numbers refer to corresponding structures of the several FIGURES.

FIG. 1 illustrates schematically one preferred embodiment of a gimbaled pendular golf club alignment system according to the invention. With respect to FIG. 1, golf club 81 is shown with shaft 83 and putter head 85. Putter head 85 is provided with alignment markings 89 which are aligned perpendicular with respect to putter head face 85. Axis Z is shown parallel to alignment markings 89.]??? Axis X is shown perpendicular to the ground, and through the center of alignment pendulum 1. Axis Y is shown perpendicular to alignment pendulum 1 through its swing arm-pendulum connector. Swing arm 51 is aligned congruent with Axis Y. Axes X, Y and Z are aligned perpendicular to one another. Thus, the plane formed through the Z and X axes is perpendicular to the earth and is shown passing through putter head alignment markings 89.

Nonetheless, although the axes and planes are perpendicular to one another, and therefore provide alignment and motion information and guidance, they can be used in different ways by a golfer, or by a golfing instructor, to align or move a golf club to which a device of the invention is attached. For example, while one golfer may prefer to align the Z-X axis through the center of the target ball and center of the target hole, another golfer may prefer to utilize other alignments.

FIG. 2 illustrates schematically one preferred embodiment of an alignment pendulum according to the invention. With respect to FIG. 2, alignment pendulum 1 includes top rail 3, bottom rail 5, trailing edge 7, leading edge 9, top trailing facet 11, top leading facet 13, bottom facet 15, connector aperture 17, inter-facet opening 18, swing pin 19, and swing pin housing 21. In use, pendulum 1 responds to the force of gravity and thus hangs perpendicularly with respect to the surface of the earth. To assist in alignment, facets 15 are slightly wider than facets 11 and 13. Moreover, facets 15 are preferably provided in colors or materials that visually contrast with the colors of facets 11 and 13. Thus, when looking downwardly approximately in the X-Z plane, a golfer can use the contrasting colors of the facets of pendulum 1 to determine the relative positions of the pendulum with respect to the ball, such as its perpendicularity with respect to the ball. The alignment of the ball with respect to the club face, the position of the ball with respect to the target hole, and the alignment of the club shaft with respect to both the ground and the target hole can also be determined with the present pendular alignment device and systems.

Advantageously, the present invention can be used both to align the portions of a club, such as its striking face, with respect to the ball, and to provide dynamic feedback to the golfer or observing golf instructor. This dynamic feedback is provided to some extent by the many permutations of the interaction of the pendulum, its various components, and the golfer.

FIG. 3 illustrates schematically one preferred embodiment of a connector for connecting the swing arm, which is attached to the shaft of a golf club, such as a putter, to a pendulum according to the invention. With respect to FIG. 3, swing arm-pendulum connector 31 includes connector body 33, swing arm through-bore 35, which typically aligns with Axis Y as shown in FIG. 1, swing pin journal walls 36, alignment pendulum swing pin journal 38, and through-bore housing 39. Swing arm through-bore 35 is preferably a cylindrical bore of an appropriate size to receive cylindrical swing arm 51 such that connector 31 and swing-arm 51 can rotate freely with respect to one another while maintaining concentricity about Axis Y. Swing pin journal walls 36 are disposed parallel to one another as well as perpendicularly to swing arm through-bore 35 and, with their junction with connector body 33, form swing pin journal 38. Journal 38 is disposed and sized for receiving alignment pendulum swing pin 19 such as that of pendulum 1 in FIGS. 1 and 2. Connector 31 can thus act as a gimbal, that is, it enables pendulum 1 to rotate freely with respect to both Axis Y and Axis Z. In their various embodiments, the devices of the invention therefore enable the various still alignments as illustrated hereinbefore, as well as provide motion feedback and measurement before, during and after the golfer moves the club through its stroke

FIG. 4 illustrates schematically a preferred embodiment of a swing arm according to the invention. With respect to FIG. 4, swing arm 51 is provided with spring-loaded clamp 53 for attaching it to a portion of a golf club shaft, such as the shaft of a putter or short driver. Swing arm 51 is provided with swing arm alignment marks 58 which are useful for positioning a swing arm pendulum, such as pendulum 1 shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, or another pendulum of the invention at a fixed position on swing arm 51. As one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, there are numerous embodiments of swing arms suitable for use with the present invention that are useable with the many variations of the invention. In some preferable embodiments, swing arm 51 is cylindrical in nature such that a swing type of pendulum connector can rotate freely without assistance. In other preferred embodiments, swing arm 51 can be provided in any cross section desirable as long as it fulfills the requirements of a particular embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates another preferred embodiment of a pendulum-swing arm combinations according to the present invention. With respect to FIG. 5, vaned pendulum 70 is provided with distance indicator ridge 71, distance indicator vane bridge facet 72. Bridge facet 72 is provided with distance indicating markings 73. Vane bridge facet 72 is also provided with distance blade arm indicator 77. In preferable embodiments, distance indicator ridge 71 is attached to solid-body alignment pendulum 201, and pendulum 201 is provided with solid-body pendulum front alignment ridge 202, and solid-body pendulum top ridge line 205. In use, vaned pendulum 70 is attached, for example, to swing arm 51 having swing arm alignment marks 57 and swing arm clamp 53, which is disposed for attaching the entire device to a golf club shaft. As one of skill in the art can appreciate, the device can also be attached in some fashion to the head of the golf club.

In use, distance indicator blade arm 77 is provided with distance indicator screw 79 to affixing it rigidly onto swing arm 51, and adjacent to distance indicator bridge facet 72. Pendulum 201, which is shown disposed with bridge facet 72 attached thereto, is attached to swing arm 51 via solid swing arm-pendulum connector 131 having neoprene sleeve 61 disposed for setting the relative position of vaned pendulum 70 on swing arm 51. Thus, when the golf club to which pendulum 201 is swung, vaned pendulum 70 moves with respect to the gimbaled solid swing arm-pendulum connector 131 with respect to swing arm 51 and distance indicator alignment blade 75, which is rigidly positioned, on shaft 51. Thus vaned pendulum 70 moves with respect to bridge facet 72 to indicate the degree, rate, or extent of rotation of the golf club itself, as well as the relative motion of the club face, head and shaft with respect to Axes X, Y and Z, and planes Z-x, Y-x and Y-Z.

FIG. 6 shows solid swing arm pendulum connector 131 having solid swing arm connector body 133, solid swing arm sleeve housing 137, solid swing arm through bore 135, solid alignment of pendulum swing pin journal 138 and throughbore housing 139. In use, journals 138 are disposed for receiving pins from various embodiments of pendulums according to the invention. Bores 135 are aligned perpendicularly journals 138 such that connector 131 acts as a gimbal.

FIG. 7 shows a typical preferred positioning element for use with the invention in neoprene sleeve 61 having sleeve throughbore 63. In use, neoprene sleeve 61 can be used disposed within solid swing arm sleeve housing 137 such that solid swing arm-pendulum connector 131 is positioned in a desired location on swing arm shaft 51.

FIG. 8 shows solid swing arm-pendulum connector 131 positioned on swing arm 51. Swing arm 51 is provided with swing arm clamp 53 and swing arm alignment marks 58. Distance indicator blade arm 77 is shown with distance indicator alignment blade 75 and distance indicator screw 79 for affixing blade arm 77 rigidly with respect to swing arm 51. Solid swing arm-pendulum connector 131 is shown positioned on swing arm 51 by means of neoprene sleeve 61 which is disposed such that pendulum connector 131 is positioned adjacent to distance indicator blade arm 77 and free to rotate on the shaft of swing arm 51.

FIG. 9 illustrates schematically an approximation of a golfer's eye view of a swing arm provided with another preferred pendulum according to the invention. With respect to FIG. 9, swing arm 51 is shown having spring clamp 53 and solid swing arm pendulum connector 131 position on the shaft of swing arm 51 along with dentate alignment pendulum 221. Dentate alignment pendulum 221 has dentate alignment pendulum inner alignment edge 223 and outer alignment edge 226 as well as pendulum centerline 224. Each of alignment edge 221 and 223 is provided with dentate alignment pendulum movement indicator scallops 225 which are spaced to show the relative position and motion of pendulum 221. Dentate alignment pendulum 221 is free to rotate with respect to solid swing arm pendulum connector 131 via means of dentate alignment pendulum pins 229. In turn, solid swing arm pendulum connector 131 is free to rotate around swing arm 51, which is typically attached to a golf club shaft as described elsewhere herein (not shown in FIG. 9). Dentate alignment pendulum 221 is also provided with leading edge 228 as well as trailing edge 230.

FIG. 10 schematically illustrates the dentate alignment pendulum 221 of FIG. 9 from an upper oblique view. With respect to FIG. 10, dentate alignment pendulum 221 is shown in gimbaled attachment to swing arm 51 by means of alignment pendulum swing pins 229 and rotatable solid swing arm-pendulum connector 131. Swing arm-pendulum connector 131 is shown positioned on the shaft of swing arm 51 via neoprene sleeve 61.

FIG. 11 shows an alternate embodiment of the pendulum according to the invention. With respect to FIG. 11, pinned alignment pendulum 231 is shown having pinned alignment pendulum swing indicator pins 235, pinned pendulum front alignment line 237, and pinned pendulum top alignment ridge 234, as well as trailing edge 238. Pins 235 are useful for showing relative movement of the pendulum, especially in the X-Z plane, while alignment ridge 234, front alignment line 237, and trailing edge 238 are useful for aligning the ball with respect to the club face, the position of the ball with respect to the target hole, and the alignment of the club shaft with respect to both the ground and the target hole. Pendulum 231 is provided also with pins 239 which are disposed for suspending pendulum 231 in a gimballed manner, for example, from a connector such connector 131 as shown in FIGS. 6, 8, 9 and 10.

FIG. 12 shows a top view of pendulum 231 shown in FIG. 11. In the view of FIG. 12, pendulum 231 is shown approximately from a top view as would be seen by a golfer. Thus, pins 235 extend from both the inner edge and outer edge of the pendulum such that there movement in relation to an indicator vane, such as that shown in FIG. 9, can be used to indicate rate, extent and type of golf swing. Thus, FIG. 11 shows leading edge 237 as well as pinned pendulum top alignment ridge 234 and trailing edge 238. The inner and outer margins of alignment ridge 234, front alignment line 237, and trailing edge 238 can be provided in contrasting colors to assist in their positioning by the golfer. Also, swing indicator pins 235 can be provided in various colors to assist in their observation by the golfer.

FIG. 13 shows vented alignment pendulum 241 having vented alignment pendulum inner edge 242, alignment pendulum outer edge 243, pendulum top center indicator line 244, and vented alignment movement indicator pins 245, which are disposed on the inner side of pendulum 241. Pendulum 241 is also provided with vented alignment pendulum front face center line 246, and vented alignment pinned pendulum swing pins 249. In use, pins 249 are disposed within a swing arm-pendulum connector such as that shown as element 131 in FIG. 10.

Various portions of pendulums according to the invention, such as vented alignment pendulum 241, can be provided in various color schemes that are adapted and arranged for ease of viewing. For example, inner edge 242, and outer edge 243 of alignment pendulum 241, as well as front face center line 246, and top center indicator line 244 can be provided in contrasting colors to assist in their positioning and use by the golfer. Also, swing indicator pins 245 can be provided in various colors, shapes and protrusion to assist in their observation by the golfer.

FIG. 14 schematically shows a top view of vented alignment pendulum 241 as shown in FIG. 13. With respect to FIG. 14, a golfer looking directly down upon 241 would see pendulum movement indicator pins 245 as well as vented alignment top center indicator line 244 leading edge 246 and trailing edge 248 as well as pendulum swing pins 249 which are disposed for rotatably riding in a solid swing arm connector such as pendulum connector 131 as shown in FIG. 10.

FIG. 15 shows schematically laser alignment pendulum 251, having laser alignment pendulum laser output face 255, laser alignment pendulum battery module 257, and laser alignment pendulum swing pin 259. In use, laser alignment pendulum 251 is free to rotate in two axes via its rotatable connection with a swing arm pendulum connector, such as connector 131, which is shown disposed upon the shaft of swing arm 51 by means of neoprene connector washer 161. The relative position of pendulum 251 can be adjusted with respect to swing arm alignment marks 58, and held in a desired position by washer 61.

FIG. 16 shows a side oblique view of laser alignment pendulum 251 as in FIG. 15, and having laser alignment swing pins 259, laser alignment pendulum battery module 257, and alignment pendulum laser output face 255,

FIG. 17 shows schematically a bottom oblique view of alignment pendulum 251 as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, and additionally shows the bottom disposition of laser alignment pendulum laser output face 255, which is provided with output beams that are perpendicular to one another.

FIG. 18 illustrates schematically another preferred embodiment of a pendular golf club alignment and training devices according to the invention wherein the pendulum is free to move in 3 axes. With respect to FIG. 18, floating sphere alignment pendulum 260 is provided with floating sphere alignment pendulum rear arm 262, sphere alignment pendulum front arm 261, floating sphere spherical pendulum bearing 263, pendulum stem 264, pendulum cap 265, pendulum support rod guide 266, a multiplicity of pendulum sphere dimples 267, as well as floating sphere alignment pendulum screw lock 268. The desired distance of pendulum 260 from a golf club shaft to which it is attached can be adjustably set by positioning pendulum support rod guide 266 which is slidably and adjustably disposed on shaft of 151 of guide 266 as shown. Alignment marks 158 are provided for fixing the adjustment, for example, repeatably, with respect to the particular club with which the device is used. Pendulum screw lock 268 is provided for rigidly setting the adjustment with respect to swing arm 151. Swing arm 151, which among other functions, is provided in square cross-section to prevent rotation of stem 264 with respect to arm 151, can be provided in any shape that allows the fixed suspension of stem 264 therefrom. The bearing surfaces of pendulum 265 and bearing sphere 263 are adapted and arranged to smoothly mate with one another. Thus, pendulum 265 can rotate in 3 axes and can therefore respond to forces of acceleration in many ways to provide dynamic special feedback information regarding the movement of the club and golfer in three dimensions.

FIG. 19 schematically shows floating sphere alignment pendulum 260 of FIG. 18 from a bottom oblique view. With reference to FIG. 19, floating sphere alignment pendulum 260 has pendulum front arm 261 and pendulum rear arm 262 as well as pendulum bearing surface 270 and fluid shepherding margin 270A. Fluid shepherding margin 270A is adapted and arranged to taper away from the bearing surface of sphere 263 to thereby allow easier access of air or other lubricating fluids to sphere 263 and pendulum 261.

FIG. 20 shows a detailed view of floating sphere pendulum bearing 263 and its contiguous elements. With respect to FIG. 20, sphere pendulum bearing 263 has a multiplicity of sphere dimples 267 which are adapted for controlling the relative coefficient of friction of the sphere with the respect to pendulum 261, which rides upon sphere 263. Thus, the surface of the sphere, as well as dimples 267, can be provided with one or more solid or liquid lubricants or can serve simply to trap fluid air and thereby provide control of the coefficient of friction between the spherical bearing and alignment pendulum 261. Sphere 263 is attached to alignment pendulum support rod guide 266 via sphere alignment pendulum gimbaled stem 264 in a rigid manner. The relative position of sphere 263 with respect to swing arm shaft 151 can be adjustably set by floating sphere alignment pendulum screw lock 268.

FIG. 21 shows schematically another preferred embodiment of an alignment pendulum according to the invention wherein spherical bearing 273 is provided with diametrically opposed channels 277 that substantially confine the motion of pendulum 271 in two axes. With respect to FIG. 21, grooved sphere alignment pendulum 271 is provided with pendulum outer protruding edge 272, pendulum inner protruding edge 280, and pendulum guide pins 279 protruding from the inner portions of spherical pendulum cap 275 such that they are disposed in opposed grooves 277. Grooves 277 and pins 279 thus cooperate to confine pendulum 271 substantially to motion in two axes. Pendulum 271 is adapted and arranged to be slidably disposed on T-beam swing arm 161. The relative position of pendulum 271 with respect to swing arm 161, and thus with respect to the golf club, such as a putter, to which it is attached, can be adjusted or fixedly set by means of alignment pendulum locking screw 278.

FIG. 22 shows a bottom oblique view of grooved sphere alignment pendulum 271 as shown in FIG. 21. With respect to FIG. 22, grooved sphere pendulum guide pins 279 are shown disposed in sphere pendulum guide pin channel 277. Thus configured, pendulum 271 is free to rotate in two axes. Grooves 277 limit the movement of pendulum 271 in Axes X-Z and X-Y.

FIG. 23 shows a bottom oblique view of pendulum 271 apart from grooved sphere pendulum 273. With respect to FIG. 23, pins 279 are shown disposed for engaging groove 277, which is disposed pictorially around sphere 273. Pendulum gimbaled cap 275 also provided with bearing surface 270 and fluid shepherding margin 270.

FIG. 24 schematically shows grooved sphere pendulum gimbaled 273 apart from the view as shown in FIG. 22.

FIG. 25 shows an alternate embodiment of a clamping device 53 according to the invention that is adapted and arranged for receiving connecting body 33, which acts as a gimbal for engageably mounting various embodiment of pendulums according to the invention. With respect to FIG. 25 swing arm pendulum connector 31 is provided with connector body 33, swing arm threw board 35, swing pin journal hold 36, alignment pendulum swing pin journal 38 and threw bore housing 39.

FIG. 26 schematically shows pendulum 201 and distance indicator ridge support 71 as shown in FIG. 5. With respect to FIG. 26, pendulum 201 is shown with pins 209, solid body pinned alignment 202 and solid body pendulum top ridgeline 205 as well as pins 209.

FIG. 27 schematically shows an alternate embodiment of a pendulum according to the invention. With respect to FIG. 27, framed alignment pendulum 211 has alignment pendulum swing pins 213, alignment pendulum housing 215, leading point 216, gelling point 218, frame inner rail 212, and outer rail 214.

With respect to FIG. 28, trailing width “W” is the distance between trailing rails 71 and 73 and thus a salient dimension of trailing slot 78, while leading width “W2” is the distance between leading rails 72 and 74, and is thus a salient dimension of leading slot 79. Dimensions W and W2 can be the same or different. Dimensions W and W2 can be of many widths. For example, slots 78 and 79 can be sized such that they frame all, or a part of the margins of a target golf ball as viewed by a golfer. The leading and trailing rails could also be dimensioned such that they form a slot or slots that can be visually aligned with one or more alignment markings on the golf club head. Numerous permutations of slot-alignment markings are possible within the scope of the invention.

Numerous permutations of components such as the alignment pendulum, the swing arm-pendulum connector, the swing arm, and the means for connecting the device to the shaft or head of a golf club, as well as the number and type of bearings and bearing surfaces, and the number of degrees of freedom of movement of the pendulum with respect to the club head, club face and club shaft, are within the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, the present invention also includes embodiments wherein at least part of the swing arm means, or an attachment means for attaching the swing arm to a golf club shaft or head, is provided in or on some portion of the club itself.

As those of skill in the art will appreciate, numerous permutations of the invention are possible within the spirit, metes and bounds of the description herein. Thus, although the present invention has been described with reference to the preferred embodiments, numerous variations and modifications of elements and components of the invention can be substituted therefor, while remaining within the spirit and scope of the invention, and within the scope of the following claims.

Numerous permutations of components such as the alignment pendulum, the swing arm-pendulum connector, the swing arm, and the means for connecting the device to the shaft or head of a golf club, as well as the number and type of bearing surfaces are within the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A device for providing feedback regarding the swing of a golf club, the golf club comprising a head having a face, a shaft and a handle, the device comprising:

an alignment pendulum, wherein the pendulum is adapted and arranged to respond to gravitational and other accelerations in at least one axis; and

means for operatively connecting the alignment pendulum to the golf club, wherein the means comprises a swing-arm adapted and arranged for connecting the pendulum to the shaft of the golf club.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the means for operatively connecting the alignment pendulum to the golf club further comprises a connector adapted and arranged for rotatably connecting the pendulum to the swing arm, wherein the pendulum is adapted and arranged for providing feedback regarding the motion of the club with respect to at least one parameter.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the at least one parameter is one or more from the group of motion parameters comprising: the club head speed, the rate of change of club head speed with respect to the ball, the rate of change of club head speed with respect to the ground, the angular speed of the club shaft with respect to the ground, and the angular speed of the club shaft with respect to the club head, and the angular speed of the club head with respect to the pendulum.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the alignment pendulum is free to respond to gravitational and other accelerations in one axis, and wherein the one axis allows rotation in a first plane substantially perpendicular to the club face.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the alignment pendulum is free to respond to gravitational and other accelerations in at least two axes, and wherein two of the at least two axes allow rotation in a first plane substantially perpendicular to the club face and in a second plane substantially parallel to the club face.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the alignment pendulum comprises top and bottom rails, and

wherein the top and bottom rails are each adapted and arranged such that a golfer positioned in a golfing stance with respect to the club can visually align the club with respect to the relative positions of the rails, and with respect to one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground,

wherein the means for connecting the alignment pendulum to the swing arm comprises a connector, the connector comprising a first journal and a second journal, wherein said journals lie in planes perpendicular to one another such that the pendulum can rotate in two axes, and wherein the two axes allow rotation in a plane substantially perpendicular to the club face and substantially parallel to the club face.

7. The device of claim 1, wherein the alignment pendulum comprises a body, and at least one indicator bridge, the bridge disposed above the body and including at least one facet comprising a plurality of indicator markings, at least one distance indicator alignment blade, and means for fixedly attaching the blade to the swingarm, wherein the device further includes at least one support to hold the bridge with respect to the swingarm,

and wherein the device is adapted and arranged such that a golfer positioned in a golfing stance with respect to the club can visually align the club with respect to the relative positions of one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground,

wherein the means for connecting the alignment pendulum to the swing arm comprises a connector, the connector comprising a first journal and a second journal, and wherein said journals lie in planes perpendicular to one another, and

wherein the alignment pendulum comprises at least one swing pin, wherein the at least one swing pin is adapted and arranged for connecting the pendulum rotatably to one of the first and second journals of the connector such that the pendulum can rotate in two axes, and wherein the two axes allow rotation in a plane substantially perpendicular to the club face and substantially parallel to the club face.

8. The device of claim 1, adapted and arranged such that the movement or lack of movement of the indicator with respect to the indicator markings indicates the relative motion of the club with respect to one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein the alignment pendulum comprises an arcuate body, the body having an arcuate top ridge, a centerline, a lower margin, an inner alignment edge, and an outer alignment edge,

wherein the inner and outer alignment edges are disposed opposite to one another on the lower margin, and at least one of the alignment edges is provided with spaced indentations disposed for indicating the relative position of the pendulum,

and wherein the device is adapted and arranged such that a golfer positioned in a golfing stance with respect to the club can visually align the club with respect to the relative positions of one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground.

10. The pendulum of claim 9, wherein both inner and outer alignment edges are provided with spaced indentations, and wherein the alignment pendulum is adapted and arranged to rotate in at least two axes, and wherein two of the at least two axes allow rotation in a plane substantially perpendicular to the club face and substantially parallel to the club face.

11. The device of claim 9, adapted and arranged such that the movement or lack of movement of the indicator with respect to the indicator markings indicates the relative motion of the club with respect to one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground.

12. The device of claim 1, wherein the alignment pendulum comprises an arcuate body, the body having an arcuate top ridge, a centerline, a centered arcuate lower margin, an inner alignment edge, and an outer alignment edge, and

wherein the inner and outer alignment edges are disposed opposite to one another on the lower margin, and at least one of the alignment edges is provided with spaced pins arcuately disposed for indicating the relative position of the pendulum,

and wherein the device is adapted and arranged such that a golfer positioned in a golfing stance with respect to the club can visually align the club with respect to the relative positions of one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein both inner and outer alignment edges of the pendulum are provided with spaced pins, and wherein the alignment pendulum is adapted and arranged to rotate in at least two axes, and wherein two of the at least two axes allow rotation in a plane substantially perpendicular to the club face and substantially parallel to the club face.

14. The device of claim 1, wherein the alignment pendulum comprises a laser operatively connected to the golf club,

and wherein the laser provides light in at least one plane such that a golfer positioned in a golfing stance with respect to the club can visually align the club with respect to the relative positions of one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground.

15. The device of claim 14, wherein the laser provides light in at least two planes, wherein the alignment pendulum is adapted and arranged to rotate in two axes, and wherein the two axes allow rotation in a first plane substantially perpendicular to the club face and in a second plane substantially parallel to the club face.

16. The device of claim 1, wherein the connector comprises a surface, the surface having indicator markings and comprising a portion of a sphere, wherein the portion of the sphere comprises a bearing surface, and

wherein the alignment pendulum comprises a front arm and a rear arm, the arms provided with indicator markings and disposed diametrically opposite to one another and substantially within a plane, wherein the front and rear arms are connected by a ring portion, and wherein the ring portion is adapted and arranged to rotate and revolve on the bearing surface portions of the sphere in response to movement of the club to which it is mounted or attached,

such that a golfer positioned in a golfing stance with respect to the club can visually align the club with respect to the relative positions of one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground.

17. The device of claim 16, wherein the alignment pendulum is adapted and arranged to rotate in at least two axes, and wherein two of the at least two axes allow rotation in a plane substantially perpendicular to the club face and substantially parallel to the club face.

18. The device of claim 16, wherein the alignment pendulum is provided with one or more pins, and the spherical surface is provided with one or more grooves, and wherein the one or more pins are disposed for articulating within the one or more grooves such that the pendulum is free to rotate in the two axes, and wherein the device is adapted and arranged such that the movement or lack of movement of the indicator with respect to the indicator markings indicates the relative motion of the club with respect to one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground.

19. The device of claim 16, wherein the alignment pendulum is provided with one or more pins, and the spherical surface is provided with one or more grooves,

and wherein the one or more pins are disposed for articulating within the one or more grooves such that the pendulum is free to rotate in the two axes.

20. The device of claim 1, wherein the alignment pendulum comprises a front frame forming a front opening and a rear frame forming a rear opening, the front and rear frames and openings being disposed diametrically opposite to one another and substantially within a plane, wherein the front and rear frames are adapted and arranged such that at least a portion of a target ball in the vicinity of the club face is visible to a golfer through at least one of the front and rear openings,

and wherein the pendulum further comprises a pin such that the pendulum is adapted and arranged to rotate on the pin in response to movement of the club to which it is mounted or attached, such that a golfer positioned in a golfing stance with respect to the club can visually align the club with respect to the relative positions of one or more of the target ball, the target hole, the club head, the club shaft, the golfer's feet, the golfer and the ground.

21. The device of claim 1, in combination with one or more of a golf club head, a golf club shaft, and a golf club wherein the golf club is a putter or other short-play club, such as a chipping wedge.

22. A method for providing alignment information to a golfer or to a golf instructor regarding the positioning of the several portions of a golf club in the hands of the golfer, wherein the golf club comprises a head having a face, a shaft and a handle, the method comprising the steps of;

A. providing an alignment pendulum, wherein the pendulum is adapted and arranged to be alignable with respect to a target golf ball, and to move in response to gravitational and other accelerations in at least one axis; and

B. providing means for operatively connecting the alignment pendulum to the golf club.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the means for operatively connecting the alignment pendulum to the golf club comprises a swing-arm adapted and arranged for connecting the pendulum to the shaft of the golf club.

24. The method of claim 22, wherein the means for operatively connecting the alignment pendulum to the golf club further comprises a connector adapted and arranged for rotatably connecting the pendulum to the swing arm.

25. The method of claim 22, wherein the pendulum is adapted and arranged for providing feedback regarding the motion of the club with respect to at least one parameter, and wherein the at least one parameter is one or more from the group of parameters comprising: the club head speed, the rate of change of club head speed with respect to the ball, the rate of change of club head speed with respect to the ground, the angular speed of the club shaft with respect to the ground, and the angular speed of the club shaft with respect to the club head, and the angular speed of the club head with respect to the pendulum, and

wherein the alignment pendulum is free to respond to gravitational and other accelerations in one axis, and wherein the one axis allows rotation in a first plane substantially perpendicular to the club face.

26. The method of claim 22, wherein the alignment pendulum is free to respond to gravitational and other accelerations in at least two axes, and wherein two of the at least two axes allow rotation in a first plane substantially perpendicular to the club face and in a second plane substantially parallel to the club face.

27. A method for providing motion feedback information regarding the swing of a golf club to a golfer or to a golfing instructor, the golf club comprising a head having a face, a shaft and a handle, the method comprising the steps of:

1) providing an alignment pendulum, wherein the pendulum is adapted and arranged to respond to gravitational and other accelerations in at least one axis; and

2) providing means for operatively connecting the alignment pendulum to the golf club wherein the means for operatively connecting the alignment pendulum to the golf club comprises a swing-arm adapted and arranged for connecting the pendulum to the shaft of the golf club.

28. The method of claim 22, wherein the means for operatively connecting the alignment pendulum to the golf club further comprises a connector adapted and arranged for rotatably connecting the pendulum to the swing arm.

29. The method of claim 22, wherein the pendulum is adapted and arranged for providing feedback information regarding the motion of the club with respect to at least one parameter, wherein the at least one parameter is one or more from the group of parameters comprising: the club head speed, the rate of change of club head speed with respect to the ball, the rate of change of club head speed with respect to the ground, the angular speed of the club shaft with respect to the ground, and the angular speed of the club shaft with respect to the club head, and the angular speed of the club head with respect to the pendulum.

30. A method for providing alignment guidance and feedback information to a golfer or to a golf instructor regarding the positioning and movement of the several portions of a golf club in the hands of the golfer, the golf club comprising a head having a face, a shaft and a handle, the method comprising the steps of

I. providing an alignment pendulum, wherein the pendulum is adapted and arranged to align itself with respect to one or more portions of a golf club to which it is attached and with respect to a target ball, and to move with respect to gravitational and other accelerations in at least one axis; and

II. providing means for operatively connecting the alignment pendulum to the golf club,

wherein the means for operatively connecting the alignment pendulum to the golf club comprises a swing-arm adapted and arranged for connecting the pendulum to the shaft of the golf club and a connector adapted and arranged for rotatably connecting the pendulum to the swing arm.