Retractable Divot Tool with Detachable Marking Disc
A retractable golf divot tool with detachable ball marking disc is an apparatus that is provided as a dual combination golfing accessory that incorporates a retractable mechanism to extend and retract a divot tool while additionally offering a convenient storage mount for a slightly over-sized marker. The present invention comprises a rounded housing, a divot tool, a retractable mechanism, and a marking disc that detaches. The rounded housing provides a cylindrical shape, convenient overall sizing, and allows for facilitated storage in a plurality of common and frequently utilized compartments. The divot tool and retractable mechanism provide an operative coupling, enabling the tool's forks to be extended when needed and retracted after use. The ball marker is provided with a detachable coupling and rounded housing that secures the marking disc in place, but permits facilitated detachment and re-attachment as necessary.
The current application claims a priority to the U.S. Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 61/600,830 filed on Feb. 20, 2012.
FIELD OF THE INVENTIONThe present invention generally relates to a golf accessory, more specifically to a dual combination golfing apparatus that incorporates a retractable divot repair tool and a detachable golf ball marking disc (marker).
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONIt is well known in the sport of golf that golf balls hitting or landing on the green impact the ground with sufficient downward force to compress a section of turf into the soil. These compressed sections of turf, commonly referred to as divots, can noticeably alter the green. If left unattended, divots negatively affect the quality of play, and could over time permanently decay the putting surface, requiring costly and time consuming repairs. While current divot tools function adequately in fixing the turf, they have some inherent disadvantages. One drawback with many of these products is their bulky design. The majority of divot tools are constructed from a single piece of elongated material. While sturdy and simple they can be somewhat troublesome to carry during a round of golf.
In addition to a divot tool, nearly all players use a ball marker of some type. According to The Rules of Golf, a golf ball can be temporarily removed from the surface of a putting green in order to clean said ball, or to prevent said ball from being a distraction or obstruction to another player. The rules additionally state that the temporarily removed golf ball should be replaced with a position identifier (marker) that ensures the ball will be returned to the exact same spot from where it was previously located. These markers are generally round and most are nearly the diameter and thickness of a dime; some are removable components of the aforementioned divot tools. Due to their small size, golfers frequently misplace or lose their markers. The issue can be problematic in finding a truly good carrying/storage location that is quick and convenient when out on the course.
It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide an apparatus that functions as a combination divot tool and golf ball marking disc. The present invention provides a retractable mechanism for the divot tool and a quick and convenient storage mount for a detachable marker. The divot tool is provided in a manner that enables it to extend from within a circular housing and conveniently retract into said housing after use. The detachable marking disc is provided with a secure mount that permits the detachment and re-attachment of the marker to the housing. A retractable divot tool with an enlarged, detachable marker is provided in a convenient overall size and rounded body shape that allows for varied and facilitated storage options. There are adaptors which should allow for securing this accessory on hats, shoes, etc. Tools that retract, however, offer the additional advantage of causing less damage to clothing when carried in a pocket. Additionally, a slightly bigger marking disc is easier to see and find when placed on the green, while also providing more surface area for graphics and logos. (Markers of practically any dimension will usually affect the ball's speed and direction should a putt unintentionally come into contact with it.) Finally, a design feature is possible for the inclusion of an indentation or ridge into the outside face of the rounded body plate opposite the marking disc side, helping make the tool easier to grasp when using it for the purpose of greens repair.
All illustrations of the drawings are for the purpose of describing selected versions of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.
Referencing
Referencing
Referencing
Referencing
Referencing
Referencing
Referencing
Referencing
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the rounded housing 1 is a thin cylindrical body that is preferably 1.5″ inches in diameter. The shape and size of the rounded housing 1 is important for the functionality of the present invention due in part to the facilitated storage and retrieval afforded by the particular shape and size. While the preferred embodiment of the present invention utilizes a particular set of measurements for the diameter of the rounded housing 1, it should be noted that variations in the measurements and the appearance of the rounded housing 1 would be considered an obvious difference.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the marking disc 13 is provided with a preferred diameter of about 1″ inch. The preferred 1″ inch diameter for the marking disc 13 allows for facilitated manipulation by the user for the removal and storage to the rounded housing 1. Additionally, the relative size of the marking disc 13 provides a ball position indicator that is small enough as to not induce unwanted interference when in use during play. While the preferred embodiment of the present invention provides the marking disc 13 with a preferred diameter of 1″ inch, it should be noted that variations in the diameter of the marking disc 13 would be considered an obvious difference.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the marking disc 13 is provided with a first magnetic coupler 15. Although the first magnetic coupler 15 is described as being positioned within in the marking disc 13, it should be noted that the positioning may be achieved anywhere relative to the marking disc 13 such that the described alignment between the first magnetic coupler 15 and the second magnetic coupler 11 is retained. Utilizing this understanding it would be understood as an obvious difference to provide a marking disc 13 that is a magnetic disc. While the described alignment between the first magnetic coupler 15 and the second magnetic coupler 11 is provided to securely retain the marking disc 13 to the second plate 8, it should be noted that additional embodiment may utilize differing coupling means that can include mechanical fasteners or adhesives.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the divot tool actuator 18 is found coupled to the at least two forks 17. The coupling between the divot tool actuator 18 and the at least two forks 17 enables the activation and/or deactivation of the retractable mechanism 19 allowing the at least two forks 17 to pivot about the divot tool mount 4 until they reach their extended or retracted position. While the divot tool actuator 18 is coupled to the at least two forks 17, it should be noted that the at least two forks 17 could potentially function as the divot tool actuator 18 as long as the positional relationship between the divot tool actuator 18 is achieved by the at least two forks 17 or at least a portion of the at least two forks 17, wherein the positional relationship refers to the peripheral positioning of the divot tool actuator 18 relative to the rounded housing 1. Furthermore, it should be noted that in an additional embodiment of the present invention, the divot tool actuator 18 could be coupled separately to the at least two forks 17. In this embodiment the divot tool actuator 18 could maintain its peripheral positioning and would activate the extended or retracted positioning of the at least two forks 17 through an operative coupling to the retractable mechanism 19.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the retractable mechanism 19 is provided as a spring leaver that secures the pivotal position of the divot tool 16. The spring leaver provides the retractable mechanism 19 with the means to securely retain the divot tool 16 to a particular position. When activated by the divot tool actuator 18, the spring leaver compresses allowing the divot tool 16 to pivot about the divot tool mount 4. When the divot tool 16 reaches its desired extended or retracted position, the spring leaver expands to its resting state, locking the divot tool 16 in place. While the preferred embodiment of the present invention utilizes a spring leaver for the retractable mechanism 19, additional embodiment can incorporate differing mechanisms that provide the present invention with an alternative means to extend or retract the divot tool 16. The alternative means to extend or retract the divot tool 16 could comprise a spring loaded mechanism that extends the divot tool 16 along a straight path instead of an arcuate path. In this embodiment the divot tool 16 would extend outwardly from a retracted position through the activation of the divot tool actuator 18. After which the divot tool 16 would be retracted through the same opening via activation of the divot tool actuator 18. This additional embodiment would be most closely described as an out the front mechanism similar to the action of various pocket knives.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the retractable divot tool 16 would be stored in the retracted position within the rounded housing 1. The present invention is provided with the functionality that permits it to be carried in the user's pocket in the retracted position with minimal risk of accidental or unintended activation. Through this function, the present invention carries negligible risk of damaging the user's clothing. The retractable divot tool 16 with detachable marking disc 13 is constructed from a 304 stainless steel sheet with a #3 finish. The present invention utilizes a laser cut or water jet cut profile, finished with a tumble and glass bead media to break sharp edges. It should be noted that while the present invention is preferably constructed out of 304 stainless steel, alternative embodiments may be manufactured out of any material or out of any combination of suitable materials including, but not limited to steel, aluminum, brass, plastic and ceramic, as well as any combination thereof.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the marking disc 13 is provided as a slightly oversized ball marker that allows for facilitated localization during a game of golf. The marking disc 13 is provided with a diameter of 1″ inch and is considered to be larger than most existing markers. This size disparity provides the marking disc 13 with adequate surface space for the inclusion of graphics and logos. Due to the construction of the present invention, any desired graphic, advertisement, or other sort of image may be used on the marking disc 13 or on the round shape housing of the present invention allowing it to function as part of a branding campaign.
Although the invention has been explained in relation to its preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as hereinafter claimed.
Claims
1. A retractable divot tool with detachable marking disc comprises:
- a rounded housing;
- a marking disc;
- a divot tool;
- a retractable mechanism;
- the rounded housing comprises a plate coupler, a first plate, and a second plate;
- the marking disc comprises a rounded housing mount and a magnetic coupler;
- the divot tool comprises at least two forks and a divot tool actuator;
- the plate coupler comprises a retractable mechanism mount and a divot tool mount;
- the first plate comprises a first interior face side and a first exterior face side;
- the second plate comprises a second interior face side and a second exterior face side; and
- the second exterior face side comprises a second magnetic coupler and a raised disc mount.
2. The retractable divot tool with detachable marking disc of claim 1, wherein the rounded housing is provided with a thin rounded cylindrical body with a preferred diameter of about 1.5″ inches.
3. The retractable divot tool with detachable marker of claim 1, wherein the marking disc is provided with a preferred diameter of about 1″ inch.
4. The retractable divot tool with detachable marking disc of claim 1, wherein the first exterior side face contains shaped elements that enable facilitated manipulation of the divot tool during use, where the shaped elements are grooves, indentations, or other features that allow a user to better handle the rounded housing.
5. The retractable divot tool with detachable marking disc as claimed in claim 1 comprises:
- the marking disc being detachably coupled to the rounded housing;
- the divot tool being extendably positioned within the rounded housing;
- the retractable mechanism being coupled to the rounded housing adjacent to the divot tool;
- the divot tool being operatively engaged to the retractable mechanism; and
- the plate coupler being positioned between the first plate and the second plate.
6. The retractable divot tool with detachable marking disc as claimed in claim 1 comprises:
- the marking disc being detachably coupled to the second plate;
- the divot tool being extendably positioned between the first plate and the second plate;
- the retractable mechanism being positioned between the first plate and the second plate adjacent to the divot tool;
- the plate coupler being coupled to the first interior side face opposite the first exterior side face; and
- the plate coupler being coupled to the second interior side face opposite the second exterior side face.
7. The retractable divot tool with detachable marking disc as claimed in claim 1 comprises:
- the marking disc being detachably coupled to the second exterior side face by way of the rounded housing mount;
- the at least two forks being extendably positioned between the first interior side face and the second interior side face;
- the retractable mechanism being coupled between the first interior side face by way of the retractable mechanism mount; and
- the divot tool actuator being peripherally positioned to the rounded housing.
8. The retractable divot tool with detachable marking disc as claimed in claim 7 comprises:
- the at least two forks being pivotally attached to the divot tool mount; and
- the at least two forks being pivotally retained by the retractable mechanism.
9. The retractable divot tool with detachable marking disc as claimed in claim 7 comprises:
- the divot tool actuator being coupled to the at least two forks.
10. The retractable divot tool with detachable marking disc as claimed in claim 1 comprises:
- the marking disc being flush with the raised disc mount;
- the second magnetic coupler being flush with the second exterior side face; and
- the first magnetic coupler being magnetically retained to the second magnetic coupler.
11. A retractable divot tool with detachable marking disc comprises:
- a rounded housing, wherein the rounded housing is provided with a thin rounded cylindrical body with a preferred diameter of about 1.5″ inches; and;
- a marking disc, wherein the marking disc is provided with a preferred diameter of about 1″ inch;
- a divot tool;
- a retractable mechanism;
- the rounded housing comprises a plate coupler, a first plate, and a second plate;
- the marking disc comprises a rounded housing mount and a magnetic coupler;
- the divot tool comprises at least two forks and a divot tool actuator;
- the plate coupler comprises a retractable mechanism mount and a divot tool mount;
- the first plate comprises a first interior face side and a first exterior face side, wherein the first exterior side face contains shaped elements that enable facilitated manipulation of the divot tool during use, where the shaped elements are grooves, indentations, or other features that allow a user to better handle the rounded housing;
- the second plate comprises a second interior face side and a second exterior face side; and
- the second exterior face side comprises a second magnetic coupler and a raised disc mount;
12. The retractable divot tool with detachable marking disc as claimed in claim 11 comprises:
- the marking disc being detachably coupled to the rounded housing;
- the divot tool being extendably positioned within the rounded housing;
- the retractable mechanism being coupled to the rounded housing adjacent to the divot tool;
- the divot tool being operatively engaged to the retractable mechanism; and
- the plate coupler being positioned between the first plate and the second plate.
13. The retractable divot tool with detachable marking disc as claimed in claim 11 comprises:
- the marking disc being detachably coupled to the second plate;
- the divot tool being extendably positioned between the first plate and the second plate;
- the retractable mechanism being positioned between the first plate and the second plate adjacent to the divot tool;
- the plate coupler being coupled to the first interior side face opposite the first exterior side face; and
- the plate coupler being coupled to the second interior side face opposite the second exterior side face.
14. The retractable divot tool with detachable marking disc as claimed in claim 11 comprises:
- the marking disc being detachably coupled to the second exterior side face by way of the rounded housing mount;
- the at least two forks being extendably positioned between the first interior side face and the second interior side face;
- the retractable mechanism being coupled between the first interior side face by way of the retractable mechanism mount; and
- the divot tool actuator being peripherally positioned to the rounded housing.
15. The retractable divot tool with detachable marking disc as claimed in claim 14 comprises:
- the at least two forks being pivotally attached to the divot tool mount;
- the at least two forks being pivotally retained by the retractable mechanism; and
- the divot tool actuator being coupled to the at least two forks.
16. The retractable divot tool with detachable marking disc as claimed in claim 11 comprises:
- the marking disc being flush with the raised disc mount;
- the second magnetic coupler being flush with the second exterior side face; and
- the first magnetic coupler being magnetically retained to the second magnetic coupler.
17. A retractable divot tool with detachable marking disc comprises:
- a rounded housing, wherein the rounded housing is provided with a thin rounded cylindrical body with a preferred diameter of about 1.5″ inches; and;
- a marking disc, wherein the marking disc is provided with a preferred diameter of about 1″ inch;
- a divot tool;
- a retractable mechanism;
- the rounded housing comprises a plate coupler, a first plate, and a second plate;
- the marking disc comprises a rounded housing mount and a magnetic coupler;
- the divot tool comprises at least two forks and a divot tool actuator;
- the plate coupler comprises a retractable mechanism mount and a divot tool mount;
- the first plate comprises a first interior face side and a first exterior face side, wherein the first exterior side face contains shaped elements that enable facilitated manipulation of the divot tool during use, where the shaped elements are grooves, indentations, or other features that allow a user to better handle the rounded housing;
- the second plate comprises a second interior face side and a second exterior face side;
- the second exterior face side comprises a second magnetic coupler and a raised disc mount;
- the marking disc being detachably coupled to the rounded housing;
- the divot tool being extendably positioned within the rounded housing;
- the retractable mechanism being coupled to the rounded housing adjacent to the divot tool;
- the divot tool being operatively engaged to the retractable mechanism; and
- the plate coupler being positioned between the first plate and the second plate.
18. The retractable divot tool with detachable marking disc as claimed in claim 17 comprises:
- the marking disc being detachably coupled to the second plate;
- the divot tool being extendably positioned between the first plate and the second plate;
- the retractable mechanism being positioned between the first plate and the second plate adjacent to the divot tool;
- the plate coupler being coupled to the first interior side face opposite the first exterior side face;
- the plate coupler being coupled to the second interior side face opposite the second exterior side face;
- the marking disc being detachably coupled to the second exterior side face by way of the rounded housing mount;
- the at least two forks being extendably positioned between the first interior side face and the second interior side face;
- the retractable mechanism being coupled between the first interior side face by way of the retractable mechanism mount; and
- the divot tool actuator being peripherally positioned to the rounded housing.
19. The retractable divot tool with detachable marking disc as claimed in claim 18 comprises:
- the at least two forks being pivotally attached to the divot tool mount;
- the at least two forks being pivotally retained by the retractable mechanism; and
- the divot tool actuator being coupled to the at least two forks.
20. The retractable divot tool with detachable marking disc as claimed in claim 17 comprises:
- the marking disc being flush with the raised disc mount;
- the second magnetic coupler being flush with the second exterior side face; and
- the first magnetic coupler being magnetically retained to the second magnetic coupler.
Type: Application
Filed: Feb 20, 2013
Publication Date: Aug 22, 2013
Inventor: Eric Martin MILLER (Denver, CO)
Application Number: 13/771,848
International Classification: A63B 57/00 (20060101);