PIVOTABLE BOOM GOLF SWING IMPROVEMENT DEVICE

Abstract

A golf swing practice and improvement device is disclosed for better training the golfing enthusiast to make straighter shots when hitting a golf ball, without hooking or slicing the ball. The device is provided with an adjustable boom assembly supported to provide three-dimensional positioning to a head guide assembly attached to the boom assembly. The head guide is provided so that it can be placed at lateral or side portions of a golfer's head to guide and keep the head in position while the golfer is making their golf club swing to the golf ball. The boom assembly is made to be withdrawn from the golfer's head just after the golfer makes contact in swinging their gold club with the ball. In doing so the golfer trips a sensing assembly of the invention when following through with the shot which provides an activating force or signal to move the head guide assembly away and above from the golfer's head, while permitting the golfer to make a natural follow-through with their swinging club after hitting the golf ball.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 61839378 filed Jun. 26, 2013, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference, as if copied verbatim in its complete entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a boom and support device for helping to improve the swing of a golfer.

2. Background Information

For over the last 100 years or more various devices have been made available to help to assist the golfer to improve their swing in the game of golf; and to thus prevent slicing, hooking or other imperfections in the golf swing which often led to inaccurate shots or shots that were not straight and able to place the golf ball at an intended target on the golf course. Many hundreds of inventions were presented all over the world, which in some way attempted to address this objective in making a person more capable of hitting a straight or more accurate golf shot.

As indicated, hundreds of such devices were invented around the world and made the subject of patentability. However, only a small number of these many inventions were able to make any contribution to utilizing the position of the golfer's head region to help to bring about a more proper golf shot, such that they held the golfer's head area in a stable but flexible position and released the golfer's head position only after the golf ball was stuck by the practicing golfer. The present invention thus meets an important need, in its structure and functional operation, to guide the position of the head more properly as one is making a shot such that a straight or more accurate golf swing and shot can be brought about through the use of the present device; and such that training and practicing on the present Golf Swing Improvement Device will result in more accurate and straight golf shots when one is not using the present device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The foregoing and other objects of the invention can be achieved with the present invention's device and system. In one aspect, a generally electrical and mechanical device having a longitudinal and horizontal ground support and upwardly extending (in relation to a ground surface) vertical boom support member is provided for positioning in or on, or in relation to, a desired outside or inside ground or floor surface. The vertical boom support is utilized to adjustably position the present invention's boom subsystem so that it is three-dimensionally adjustable in positional relation to the dimensional aspects of a person's head region, utilizing the present invention. The boom subsystem utilizes an outside surfacing and an internally joining, movable inside surfacing to effect pivotable movement of the boom subsystem. The inside surfacing is connected to a removable and adjustable head subassembly at one of its ends and a catch or trigger receipt portion at its other end. A biasable member is attached to the inside surfacing proximate to the head subassembly of the boom subassembly and extends to a securement portion on the outside surfacing or to the pulley and support coupling secured to, or coupled with, the vertical boom support and the outside surfacing of the boom subassembly. Thus, when the biasable member is extended and the boom subassembly is in cocked or in set position, triggering of the movable and pivotable inside surfacing causes the head portion to move or pivot toward the opposite end of the outside surfacing of the boom subassembly, away from the golfer's head position. In one aspect of the invention the outside surfacing supports a mechanical triggering mechanism for contact when the inside surfacing is so positioned with its trigger receipt portion to hold the inside surfacing in position for pivotable motion release of the inside surfacing. In another aspect of the invention an electrical solenoid or release means is secured on the outside surfacing on the boom, with an extendable arm or trigger which communicates with the trigger receipt portion of the internal surfacing, for cocking and release of the inside surfacing. The invention is provided in fully mechanical embodiments and fully electronic embodiments, or in mixed mechanical and electrical components for use by the practicing golfer.

In one aspect of the invention a mechanical golf club trip lever is adjustably positioned and secured on a forward portion of the longitudinal ground support which is positioned proximate and underneath the above-positioned head subassembly when a person is standing proximate and over the forward portion of the longitudinal ground support, placing themselves in a position to hit a golf ball. The golf club trip lever is communicated by a cord, flexible attachment or cable means to the trigger such that when the golf club strikes the club trip lever the trigger is actuated to release the trigger receipt portion of the inside surfacing such that the inside surfacing and the attached head subassembly move away from the person's head as the person follows through with their golf swing. In another aspect of the invention the golf club trip lever is engaged with an electrical switch which actuates the solenoid or electrical release means to release the extendable arm or trigger such that the inside surfacing pivots away from the users head taking with it the head subassembly. Thus, through the employment of either aspect of the present invention the head subassembly comfortably holds the head in a proper position while one is making a golf swing such that the head subassembly is not released and withdrawn from the golfer's head portion until the golfer makes contact with the golf ball, and simultaneously or contemporaneously engages the golf club trip lever; and is in the process of completing follow-through on their golf shot. Other aspects of the present invention more comfortably facilitate the re-cocking or re-setting of the inner surfacing of the boom subassembly for re-use for another golf shot through a cable and pulley or electrical means, and also protect or cushion the golf club during its final follow-through after the golf shot is made using the device. An additional aspect of the invention provides for roller support or other internal guidance and support means so that the inner surfacing is stabilized as it is pivoted within the outer surfacing after triggering, or in the process of re-setting the device for re-use. Still further aspects of the invention provide a non-rigidly positioned, safety head subassembly which will non-bindingly and adjustably position the user's head in a proper, but comfortable, position for making a proper swing; and which will comfortably remove itself from the user's head after the golf ball is struck by the golf club in a substantially non-frictional and non-abrasive manner.

In another aspect of the invention the element of the invention described or illustrated herein as the vertical upright boom support member (14) is positioned in a diagonally positioned orientation, where the power and triggering elements are directly and activationally coupled to the element which was original shown or described herein as the boom subassembly (16). An additional vertically positioned biasing support member is then biasably attached to the new boom assembly when in set position. The coupled and substantially horizontally positioned new boom assembly, when set, then is connected to the head guiding subassembly (30) described and illustrated herein. In so doing the head subassembly lifts up from the golfer's head rather than backward; and described in more detail herein.

It is an object of the present invention to fulfill a substantial need in the golf swing device technology in providing a reasonably light, easily transportable unit and system which can be set up and used easily by the practicing golf person; and which can be used by left and right hand golf club-swingers as well as tall or short persons (or children).

It is a further object of the invention to provide a golf practicing device and system which enables its head subassembly to easily and comfortably fit around lateral areas of a person's head region, for comfortable and releasable guidance when the golfer is practicing their swing, and to provide the head subassembly so that it can be easily adjusted in three-dimensional adjustment to achieve this positional purpose. In this regard it is also an objective to provide a golf-swing guidance head subassembly which is removed from around lateral areas of a golfer's head region as soon as the golfer makes contact with the golf ball during their swing, such that golf swing follow-through is not impeded.

A further object is present with the novel golf swing device in providing a means for guidance of golf-club follow-through, and protection and guidance for the club when the golfer follows through with their swing after hitting the golf ball, as well as protection for the cord relay tripping mechanism (when utilized) or electronic activating switch, the two principle preferred embodiments of the present invention set forth herein, along with the respective preferred embodiments of particular parts or elements of those embodiments.

It is yet a further object of the present invention to provide a golf-swing practice device which is very easy and user-friendly to reset or reload or re-cock for time-efficient reuse of the present PIVOTABLE BOOM GOLF SWING IMPROVEMENT DEVICE.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a triggering subassembly of a mechanical embodiment of the PIVOTABLE BOOM GOLF SWING IMPROVEMENT DEVICE of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a partial side perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1

FIG. 3 is a further side perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, illustrating both cables used in the mechanical embodiment of the present invention in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a front view of the vertical attachment coupling of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 shows an embodiment utilized in both mechanical and electrical embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 6 shows a side elevated perspective view of the lower portion of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a photographic view of another embodiment of the invention showing the central and front or forward end portions of the boom subassembly of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a photographic view of the rear end of the boom subassembly of the embodiment of FIG. 7.

FIG. 8A is a photographic view of the rear or further end of the inside guide member of the boom subassembly of the embodiment of FIG. 7, showing a preferred embodiment for attachment of the relatch cord or cable of the invention.

FIG. 8B is a photographic view of a frontward portion of the of the boom subassembly of the embodiment of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is a photographic view of a rearward portion of the boom subassembly setting forth an elevated view thereof, of the embodiment of FIG. 7.

FIG. 10A is a photographic side view of the frontal portion of the boom subassembly of the embodiment of FIG. 7.

FIG. 10B is a photographic side view of a portion of the inside guide member of the embodiment of FIG. 7 of the invention.

FIG. 11 is a side photographic view of an end portion of the boom subassembly of the present invention showing in part the trigger rocker arm of the embodiment of FIG. 7.

FIG. 12 is a further enlarged elevated photographic view of the elements of the sensing subassembly of the invention.

FIG. 13 is a photographic illustration of an embodiment of the present invention showing the entire device of the invention, set up generally for a left-handed practicing golfer.

FIG. 14 is a further photographic illustration of the invention showing the entire device of the invention, set up generally for a right-handed practicing golfer.

FIG. 15 is an enlarged photographic view of a rearward portion of the boom subassembly of the invention showing the trigger rocker arm in position holding the inside guide member for release after the practicing golfer strikes the golf ball and triggers the golf club sensing subassembly of the invention.

FIGS. 16A, 16B, 16C and 17 are photographic illustrations of preferred embodiments of the vertical attachment couplings used in connection to the vertical upright boom support member of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a photographic view of a portion of the boom subassembly of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a drawing showing a partially elevated view of a solenoid embodiment of the triggering subassembly of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a photographic illustration another embodiment of the invention showing the boom and head subassembly in raised position after the golf ball has been hit and the pivoting mechanism of the boom has been activated.

FIG. 21 is a photographic illustration of the embodiment of FIG. 20, where boom and head assemblies are in set position for the golfer to position their head prior to hitting a golf ball.

FIG. 22 is a photographic illustration of the embodiment of FIG. 20 showing a close-up side view of the base subassembly and supported elements of this embodiment.

FIG. 23 is a further photographic illustration of the embodiment of FIG. 20 showing the support subassembly.

FIG. 24 is a photographic illustration of the embodiment of FIG. 20, showing bottom portions thereof, and the modified sensing device of this embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a further photographic view of bottom portions of the invention shown in FIG. 24.

FIG. 26 is a photographic view of elements supported or attached to the diagonal support subassembly (160).

FIG. 27 is a further photographic view of boom and head subassembly of the embodiment of FIG. 20.

REFERENCE NUMERALS USED IN THE APPLICATION

• 1 golf ball
• 2 practicing golfer or golfer
• 3 golf ball hitting platform or mat
• 4 moving golf ball hitting platform or mat (3) into position desired by golfer (2) for striking or hitting the golf ball (1)
• 5 golf club
• 10 the present invention, the PIVOTABLE BOOM GOLF SWING IMPROVEMENT DEVICE or invention's device or system, or Golf Device
• 12 base subassembly
• 12A elongated base member
• 12B crossing base member
• 14 vertical upright boom support member
• 14A collar support of boom support (14)
• 14B adjustment member of collar support (14A)
• 15 movable hinge member
• 16 boom subassembly
• 16A outside support member or surfacing
• 16B pivotable or slideable inside guide member or surfacing
• 16F forward portion of boom subassembly (16)
• 16H hole, groove or reception area provided on and in the outside guide member (16A)
• 17 vertical attachment coupling (used to movably/adjustably connect the outside support member (16A) to the vertical upright boom support member (14))
• 18 triggering subassembly (solenoid, examples FIGS. 7, and 18 or mechanical trigger, examples FIGS. 1, 2 and 3)
• 18A trigger-rocker arm
• 18B triggering base
• 20 power, power cell or battery cable
• 22 club contact switch cable
• 21 battery cable (20) leading to (which leads to) the battery or power means (26) of the electrical embodiment of the present invention (10).
• 23 club contact switch cable (22) leading to (which leads to) the club contact switch subassembly (25)
• 25 club contact switch subassembly
• 26 battery or power means
• 28 roller subassemblies (at least one thereof or group of such assemblies)
• 28A roller subassembly no. 1, show by example
• 28B roller subassembly no. 2, show by example
• 28C roller subassembly no. 3, show by example
• 28D roller subassembly no. 4, show by example
• 28F support frame of each respective roller subassembly (28)
• 28R respective roller member of subassembly (28)
• 30 head guiding subassembly
• 32 lateral head position placements of the head guiding subassembly (30)
• 34 head position hinge members of the head guiding subassembly (30)
• 36 padded members of the head guiding subassembly (30)
• 37 biasing means attachment member of the head subassembly (30)
• 38 biasing means or member
• 116A forward or frontal end of the inside guide member (16B)
• 116B rearward or further end of the inside guide member (16B)
• 117A latching member of vertical attachment coupling (17)
• 117B bolting member of vertical attachment coupling (17)
• 117C bolting stem of bolting member (117B)
• 117D bolting stem of bolting member (117B)
• 117E vertical adjustment sleeve, in preferred embodiment, of vertical attachment coupling (17)
• 117F tightening component of vertical adjustment sleeve (117E)
• 118 supplementary retaining bolts on the latching member (117A)
• 119 cable pulley member
• 120 relatch rope, cord or cable
• 122 secondary cable or rope pulley
• 124 accessory u-bolt member subassembly
• 126 accessory biasing member (FIG. 6)
• 121A nut portion of outside guide member (16)
• 121B bolt or threaded portion for connection, of the head guiding subassembly (30)
• 121C buffer member installed on inside guide member (16B)
• 130 golf club sensing subassembly
• 132 forked member of sensing subassembly (130)
• 134 sensing switch unit
• 136 protective, cushioning and flexible tubing member
• 138A respective fork portion of the forked member (132)
• 138B further respective fork portion of the forked member (132)
• 139 adjustable bolt member of the forked member (132) of the golf club sensing subassembly (130)
• 140 arm member
• 140A adjustable sub-member of the arm member (140)
• 140B golf club contact tubing of sub-member (140A) and arm member (140)
• 142A pivot connection member
• 142 switch unit base
• 142B push-button switch member of the switch unit base (142)
• 150 additional cord or cable for use with golf club sensing subassembly (130)
• 160 diagonal support subassembly
• 162 collar portion
• 161 collar securement member
• 164 modified triggering subassembly
• 166 electrical activation subassembly
• 168 modified trigger arm extension member
• 169 modified biasing trigger bolt member
• 170 modified boom subassembly
• 171 pivotal support pin
• 171A channel for receiving support pin (171)
• 172 extension support post member
• 173 biasable member
• 174 modified coupling assembly
• 175A electrical wire (connecting the activation subassembly (168) to an electrical power source 175B)
• 175B power or activation source
• 180 modified sensing subassembly
• 182 first extension leg contact member
• 184 second extension leg contact member
• 185 extension club warning member (attached to support member 14) or elongated base (12A))

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The following description of the preferred embodiments of the concepts and teachings of the present invention is made in reference to the accompanying drawing figures which constitute illustrated examples of the teachings, and structural and functional elements, of the present invention's device and system; among many other examples existing within the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Referring now to the exemplar drawing illustrations, FIG. 1 through 27, thereof, there are illustrated, aspects of an exemplary preferred embodiments of the present invention, the PIVOTABLE BOOM GOLF SWING IMPROVEMENT DEVICE or invention's device or system, or Golf Device, 10.

As shown in FIGS. 6, 17, 13, and 20; in preferred embodiments the Golf Device and system of the invention 10 is provided with a base subassembly 12, having a longitudinal and elongated base member 12A and a crossing base member 12B. In preferred embodiments the subassembly 12 has a pivotable crossing base member, so that the device can be more easily stored, moved or transported, when the crossing member is pivoted or moved generally to the axis of the elongated base member 12A. The base 12 is preferred constructed or fabricated with a plastic, polymer, wood or a light metal which is durable and strong, and which is provided at a low mass or overall weight, for ease of movement, shipping and transportation. It will be understood that a diverse number of fabricating materials can be used for this purpose. Each of the base members 12A and 12B can be fabricated in multiple sliding parts for ease of storage, positioning and transportation. However, it is preferred that each of the base members be of one-piece construction, and attached to one another as shown by example in FIGS. 17, 13, and 20, where the crossing base 12B is securely attached to the elongated base 12A in a basically perpendicular positional orientation, but such that it can be pivoted to a different angle if needed by release or adjustment of the base connection member 12C.

The Golf Device 10 utilizes a vertical upright boom support member 14 which is attached to the elongated base member 12A and extends upward or spaced from the base 12A in a substantially perpendicular spatial orientation. In preferred embodiments the boom support 14 is provided in a rigid position on the elongated base 12A which can be positioned and securely attached as desired with respect to the vertical positioning of the support member 14. In another preferred embodiment of the present invention 10 a pivotable and movable hinge member 15 is provided which allows the vertical support 14 to be moved downwardly in a position on or proximate to the elongated base 12A for transportation, yet permits the vertical member to be extended upward in a locked position when the device 10 is used. The vertical boom support 14, in one preferred embodiment, is attached to the collar support 14A, having its adjustment member 14B. Thus the collar support 14A is slideably and adjustably tracked and fit around the elongated base member 12A for adjustable positioning as shown by example in FIGS. 17, and 20; or which can also be non-movably secured to the base member 12A as an upper platform piece for rigid installment, as illustrated by example in FIG. 6.

The boom subassembly 16 is provided with an outside support member or surfacing 16A and a pivotable or slideable inside guide member or surfacing 16B. Although different configurations of the members 16A and 16B can be utilized, in preferred embodiments of the invention 10 it is preferred to use square tubing for the outside member 16A and a solid square elongated piece for the inside guide member 16B such that it can be slid and pivotable within the outside support member 16A. The outside support 16A is attached in a movable or adjustable manner to the boom support member 14, where it can be fixed and secured to the boom support 14 for use in one position, and can be releasably adjusted to move the outside guide member to another position on the vertical support 14, so that positional adjustments can be made to accommodate the size and height of the practicing golfer using the device 10. In preferred embodiments of the invention 10 the vertical attachment coupling 17 is rigidly attached to the outside support member 16A, as shown by example in FIGS. 4, 7, 9, and 18.

The triggering subassembly 18 of the invention 10 is securely fixed to and supported by the outside guide member. In preferred embodiments of the device 10 the triggering subassembly 18 is provided as a pivotable mechanical member as shown by example in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3; and also as an electrical magnetic movement means such as a solenoid unit, as illustrated by example in FIGS. 7, 9, 13, 20, 18 and 19. The solenoid unit, as the triggering subassembly 18, when employed in preferred embodiments, is provided with the trigger-rocker arm 18A. An example of its preferred embodiment is illustrated at FIGS. 7, 9, 10A, 17, and 18. The solenoid unit, as so used, in this preferred embodiment of the present invention 10, is provided with a power, power cell or battery cable 20 having at least two wires connected to the solenoid, as illustrated by example in FIG. 19. The battery cable 20 leads 21 to the battery or power means of the electrical embodiment of the present invention 10. The solenoid unit is also provided with the club contact switch cable 22 which leads 23 to the club contact switch subassembly 25 positioned for the golfer at the forward position of the golf device 10 when in assembled position. It will be understood within the spirit and scope of the present invention that the wiring, activation and power for operation of the solenoid as the triggering subassembly 18 or equivalent electrical means can be wired, supplied or activated by a number of diverse arrays of electrical wiring, electrical or other wireless impulse or mechanical means such that the triggering subassembly 18 is activated and made the subject of movement of the trigger rocker arm 18A or equivalent activating triggering means to engage and activate movement or engagement of the inner guide member 16B, and as further discussed herein.

The solenoid triggering subassembly 18 can be mounted directly to the outside support member 16A; but, preferably, is mounted on the triggering base 18B; shown by example in FIGS. 7 and 9.

The boom subassembly 16 is further provided with at least one roller subassembly 28 (or group of such assemblies), shown herein by example as subassemblies 28A, 28B, 28C and 28D; in FIGS. 7, 8, 8B, 9, 10A, 15, and 18. The boom subassemblies 28 can be provided and mounted on the outside support member 16A of the boom subassembly 16 in various positions on the boom 16; but in a preferred embodiment are set forth in a positional array where two such units 28 are provided proximate to or on the front portion of the outside support member 16A and two of such units 28 are provided proximate, on or toward the back portion of the outside support 16A, as illustrated in the referenced drawings just above. In a preferred embodiment of the golf device 10 each of the roller subassemblies 28 is provided with a support frame 28F which houses preferably one or two respective roller members 28R on axles or such that they can turn or pivot in position. The frame is secured, as indicated, to a portion of the outside support member 16A so that each of the housed roller members 28R extend to a position which would be inside the surface of the outside support member or surfacing 16A. In this position on the outside support member 16A a hole, groove or reception area 16H is provided in the outside support member 16A so that each respective roller member 28R can extend within and be positioned inside each respective hole 16H; and so that each of the respective roller members 28R can extend to and rest against the slideable inside guide member or surfacing 16B when in installed position inside the outside support member 16A, as shown by example in FIG. 15; thus providing improved ease of movement and pivotability of the inside guide member 16B inside the outside support member 16A when the inside support member is activated or engaged into movement as discussed herein. It will be understood that the roller subassemblies 28 can be fabricated and provided in a diverse number of materials, dimensions and structures to fulfill the stated purpose herein of such a subassembly 28 in providing ease of movement between the inside guide member 16B and outside support member 16A.

The forward portion 16F of the boom subassembly 16, as illustrated by example in FIGS. 8B, 10A, and other drawings; is provided with the slideable juxtaposition of the ends of the inside guide surfacing 16B and the outside support surfacing 16A. The inside surfacing 16B is dimensioned to have a length longer than that of the outside support surfacing 16A, and also dimensioned to extend a spaced distance away from the outside support 16A, and the front portion thereof 16F so that most practicing, golfing persons can fit comfortably in relation to both the boom subassembly 16 and the elongated base member 12A when the inside guide member 16B is extended away from the outside support member 16A. In this regard, the proximate end of the inside guide member 16B in relation to the forward portion 16F is provided with the head guiding subassembly 30.

The head guiding subassembly 30 is provided with lateral head position placements 32; as shown by example in FIG. 10A, and other drawings and illustrations. The head subassembly 30 is also provided, in preferred embodiments of the invention, with head position hinge members 34 for flexible or pivotable positioning and securement of the head position placements 32, in the use of the head subassembly 30 to be adjusted to rest on lateral or side portions of a person's head area for guidance while making the golf practice shot, as discussed more completely herein. Also a part of the head subassembly 30 is the padded members 36, as illustrated by example in FIGS. 8B and 10A, and others. The head subassembly 30 is attached to the inside guide member 16B through a threadable coupling between the two pieces. In such an arrangement, as illustrated by example at FIG. 5, a nut and threaded bolt setup is utilized where the nut portion 121A is connected to the frontal end 116A of the inside guide member 16B and the threaded portion 121B is provided by the connection portion or end of the head subassembly 30; so that the head subassembly 30 is connected to the inside guide member 16B. In this manner, it will be appreciated that different head subassemblies can be attached to the guide member 16B and utilized for specific or special purposes. The buffer member 121C is preferably installed on the front end of the inside guide member (16B); as illustrated by example in FIG. 10A, and other drawings. The buffer 121C can be constructed from a number of preferably flexible or semi- or partially-flexible materials; but can be constructed of hard materials as well. The buffer 121C helps to absorb or buffer the outside support member 16A when the inside guide member 16B comes to rest upon or proximate to the outside support member 16A.

This will happen as indicated further herein when the inside guide member 16B moves from a first position where3 it has been extended out so that the head guiding subassembly 30 is engaged with the golfer's head, to a second position just after the golfer hits the golf ball and trips the arm member 140 when the inside guide member is brought back under its biasing pressure to hit and come to rest against the outside support member 16A, then employing the buffer member 121C to cushion and lessen the impact of the inside guide member 16B against the outside support member 16B (having been biasably and with pressure drawn and brought to this position).

It will also be understood that a number of means for attachment of the two parts may be employed within the scope and view of the present invention, and that a number of different head subassemblies can be used. However, it is preferred to use the present construction to achieve light guiding and adjustable pressure against a practicing golfer's head while allowing for some movement of the head, while the head position placements 32 are adjustable themselves to the size of the golfer's head for comfortable fit and guidance, until the golfer actually strikes the golf ball; which, as further described herein, causes an activating force to pull the head subassembly 30 back and away from the golfer's head. This allows the golfer to naturally follow through with their golf club after hitting the golf ball.

In this regard, the head subassembly is further provided with a biasing means attachment member 37, as shown by example in FIGS. 10B, and 18. The biasing means or member 38 is attached to the attachment member 37; as shown by example in FIGS. 7, 10A, and 18. It will be understood that a diverse number of means for providing a biasing means may be employed within the scope and spirit of the invention. In the preferred embodiment presented herein the biasing spring, in this case, constitutes the biasing member 38.

The biasing member 38 is further attached in preferred embodiments to the vertical attachment coupling 17; thus, in preferred embodiments the spring 38 extends in attachment from the biasing means attachment member 37 to a place or portion on the vertical attachment coupling 17; as shown by example in FIGS. 7, 9, 10A, 16A, and 18. In preferred embodiments of the present invention the vertical attachment coupling 17 has a latching member 117A, which in preferred embodiments is a diagonally positioned member as illustrated by example in the drawings; and a bolting member 117B; which in preferred embodiments is a U-bolt-type bolting part as illustrated by example in FIGS. 16A, 16B. and 16C. In this embodiment the diagonally positioned bolting member extends around both the outside guide member 16A and the vertical boom support member 14 to hold the two members securely together. This embodiment also allows for adjustment of the boom subassembly 16 for positioning in accordance with the size and height of the practicing golfer, allowing for both rotational and vertical movement of the coupling 17 and the attached boom subassembly 16 and guiding subassembly 30, as needed and selected.

Additionally, in this embodiment the bolting member 117B in the form of the U-bolt-type member as shown in FIG. 16A have two projecting bolt stems 117C and 117D, each of which extends around and beyond the vertical support 14 when in installed position. One of the bolt stems 117C is utilized to support and secure a cable pulley member 119 and the other bolt stem is used to support and secure the biasing member 38.

Another embodiment of the vertical attachment coupling 17 is provided with the latching member 117A and an accompanying bolting member 117B, as illustrated by examples in FIGS. 7, 9, 10A, 16A, 16B, 16C, and 18. This embodiment of the attachment coupling 17 can be positioned and secured in a relatively straight (or perpendicular position relative to the vertical support 14) or can be positioned and secured in various diagonal or other angles in relation to the vertical support's 14 positioning; as shown in the cited illustrations herein. This embodiment is also provided with one or more supplementary retaining bolts 118 to positionally and securely couple and retain the bolting member 117B to the outside guide member 16A. It will be understood within the scope and spirit of the invention that a number of attachment means can be utilized to secure, in this type of embodiment, the latching member 117A to the outside support member 16A.

Yet another preferred embodiment of the vertical coupling 17 is illustrated by example in FIG. 17, where the vertical adjustment sleeve 117 E is attached to members of the coupling 17 described in previous embodiments herein. Thus, the sleeve 117E can be adjusted and secured to a desired location on the vertical upright boom support 14 by virtue of the tightening component 117F on the sleeve 117E as illustrated by example.

It will also be understood within the scope and spirit of the present invention that attachment of parts or elements of the invention throughout the inventions parts can be securely or rigidly secured (such as through welding or other more permanent attachments), or positionally, pivotably or adjustably attached and secured in many ways and manners to meet the stated purposes, functions and objectives of the present invention.

Additionally, in this regard, the cable pulley member 119, in preferred embodiments, can be movably attached to one of the bolting stems 117C or 117D; as shown by example in FIGS. 7, 9, and 18. Or, the pulley 119 is attached so that it can be moved or pivotally positioned, in preferred embodiments, for operation on one of the roller subassemblies 28C or 28 D; as shown by illustrative example in FIGS. 7, 8B, 10A, and 18. A secondary cable or rope pulley is provided in preferred embodiments; as shown by example in FIGS. 9 and 10A, which is secured by the accessory u-bolt member subassembly 124 to the vertical upright boom support member 14. The accessory u-bolt 124 is adjustable along the vertical support member 14 for ideal positioning by the practicing golf person for positional accessibility. This set-up in the present invention is utilized for further guidance and support of the relatch cord 120.

In this regard, in preferred embodiments of the present invention, the relatch cord is attached at its lower end (or its first end) to the collar support 14A of boom support (14); as illustrated by example in FIGS. 6 and 17, and other illustrations herein. In another, but preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the accessory biasing member 126 is secured to the vertical support member 14 for assistance in providing tightness or tautness, and guidance, for use of the relatch chord 120. The relatch rope, cord or cable 120, is illustrated by example in FIG. 18 and other drawings.

The second, further or more distant end of the chord 120 is attached at this other end of the chord 120 to the rearward or further end 116B of the inside guide member 16B, as shown in FIGS. 8A, 13, and 11. Thus, by utilization of the chord 120 the inside guide member 16B can be moved within the outside support member 16A for re-latching or resetting the inside guide member 16B to a position where the trigger-rocker arm 18A engages and holds the inside guide member 16B for biased release, as illustrated by example in FIGS. 9, 11, 13, 14, and 15, and as described further herein.

The golfing device 10 is further provided with the golf club sensing subassembly 130, as illustrated by example in FIGS. 12, 13, and 14. The sensing subassembly 130 is provided with a forked member 132, in preferred embodiments. The sensing switch unit 134 and the protective, cushioning and flexible tubing member 136 are, respectively, supported by and attached to, respective fork portion 138A or further respective fork portion 138B of the forked member 132, depending upon whether the practicing golfer is left-handed or right-handed. The protective, cushioning and flexible tubing member 136 is utilized as a golf club guide and protection means for helping to guide the golf club as the golfer is swinging it to hit the golf ball, and as a protective shield means to protect the switch unit 134 from potential or possible damage from a swinging golf club.

The forked member 132 of the club sensing subassembly 130 is attached to the elongated base member 12A by the adjustable bolt member 139; and by virtue of this the forked member can be pivoted to a corresponding opposite position to accommodate a left-handed or right-handed practicing golfer. For example, the setup for accommodating a right-handed golfer is shown by example in FIG. 14; and the setup for accommodating a left-handed golfer is shown by example in FIG. 13. In so doing, when the practicing golfer is in position to utilize the golfing device 10 and hit a golf ball placed near the forked member 132, the club sensing subassembly 130 will always be closest and most proximate to the golfer as this person stands an prepares to hit the golf ball, while the flexible tubing member 136 will be further away from the golfer and closed or most proximate to the golf ball which has been placed on the ground to be hit while utilizing the present invention 10.

The sensing switch unit 134, shown by illustrated example in FIG. 12, is provided with the arm member 140; which, in preferred embodiments, is structured to be adjustable and extendable to accommodate for distance preferences by practicing golfers. In this regard, the arm 140 is provided with the adjustable sub-member 140A which is fabricated with a bolt attachment such that the at least part of the arm 140 is positionable or movable as desired before being secured into rigid position. At one of its ends the arm member 140 is provided with, or has attached to it, the golf club contact tubing 140B. And at the other of its ends the arm 140 extends and is attached to the pivot connection member 142A of the switch unit base 142. The switch unit base 142 also supports as attached the push-button switch member 142B. As discussed in part earlier herein, the switch unit base 142; and thus the sensing switch unit 134, can be moved along the respective fork portion 138A to a desired position and then secured thereat for functional use, as illustrated by example in FIG. 12.

Thus, in the operational and functional aspects of the various structural elements heretofore described and linked by reference to the illustrative drawing examples cited or presented, the golfer (2) will pull the relatch cord. This will set the inside guide member 16B, under biasing pressure, so that it is held in retained, triggering position by the trigger rocker arm 18A, as shown by example in FIGS. 9, 11, 13, and 14, and 15. The practicing golfer (2) places the golf ball (1) in front of their position as they stand ready to hit the ball in front of and close to, or in proximate position in relation to, the club contact switch subassembly 25 of the forked member 132; as shown by example in FIG. 14. As the boom assembly 16 is already in cocked or triggering position, the golfer positions themselves so that their head region is inside the lateral head position placements 32 of the head guiding subassembly (30. The golfer, as so positioned in relation to the forked member 132 and the lateral head position placements 32, proceeds to swing and hit the golf ball (1). When the golfer's golf club (5) makes contact with their golf ball (1) their club (5) will have passed and moved the golf club contact tubing 140B of arm member (140) this will have triggered the arm member 140 to make contact with the push-button switch member 142B of the switch unit base (142). Based on the cables 21 and 22 and their wiring in relation to the solenoid triggering subassembly 18 heretofore discussed and illustrated, the triggering subassembly 18 is activated so that the trigger-rocker arm 18A is moved away from its retainment and holding of the inside guide member 16B. Because the inside guide member 16B is held under biasing pressure the guide member is pulled to a rearward position withdrawing the lateral head position placements 32 away from the golfer (2) as the golfer follows through with their shot. This process can then be repeated to practice hitting another golf ball (1). It will be understood within the scope and spirit of the present invention 10 that another order can be utilized in placing the golf ball, golfer positioning and pulling the relatch cord to reset the device 10, or that another person could assist them in placing the golf ball and/or resetting the device for operation again; or with any of the details regarding adjustment of the device as described herein which might be needed prior to during or after golfer positioning and the swinging of the golf club to take the shot.

Drawings herein; FIGS. 1 through 6, and related disclosure herein, set forth that the present invention can also be used in a preferred mechanical embodiment of the invention where it is not necessary to utilize electrical means. In this embodiment the present golf-practicing device 10 is provided with an additional cord or cable 150 which is used with the golf club sensing subassembly (130) so that when the ball is struck and this moves the golf club contact tubing 140B of arm member (140) and its associated members discussed herein this causes the cord or cable 150 to affect the mechanical embodiment of the triggering subassembly 18 such that the same activation of the inside guide member 16B takes place, and the head subassembly is moved away from the golfer's head area.

Attention is directed to FIGS. 6 and 20 through 27. Another preferred embodiment of the present invention 10 provides for the elongated base member 12A having the vertical upright boom support member 14 positioned and movably attached to the base 12A so that, when connected for operation it forms a generally diagonal angle in relation to the base 12A, as illustrated in the referenced FIGS. The diagonal support subassembly 160 is secured to the boom support member 14 so that it can be adjusted and secured along various locations on the support member 14. In this preferred embodiment a collar portion 162 of the support 160 is used to connect the subassembly 160 to the support member 14.

The support subassembly 160 is further provided with the modified triggering subassembly 164. The triggering subassembly 164 is provided with an electrical activating subassembly 166, shown by example as a solenoid member, The subassembly 166 is provided with a pivotable trigger arm extension member 168 which is connected to the modified biasing trigger bolt member 169. This preferred embedment is further provided with the modified boom subassembly 170.

The boom subassembly 170 is preferably elongate in structure, but can be provided in other shapes and positional configurations. One of the ends of the boom 170 is connected to the support 160 so that it can pivot or move in relation thereto.

The support subassembly 164 is further provided with an extension support post member 172. When the post member 172 is connected for operational use it forms a generally transverse, or 90-degree, angle with the axis of the installed elongated base member 12A. The biasable member 173 connects between the post member 172 and the boom subassembly 170 to create a biasable force between member 172 and the boom 170. The boom 170 is further provided at its other end with the head guiding subassembly 30, discussed in detail herein. This preferred embodiment further includes the modified sensing subassembly 180.

The sensing subassembly 180 is very similar in general structure and function to that discussed in the description and FIGS. discussed in relation to element numbers 130 through 150 and other such elements. The sensing subassembly 180 is particularly provided with a first extension leg contact member 182 and a second extension leg contact member 184. When the golfer follows through with their swing forward as they hit the golf ball, the extension club warning member 185 will warn them if they are swings to the side and spaced from the golf ball. Further as the golfer follows through with the swing their leg or knee area will engage one of the extension leg contact members 182 or 184. This further engages a switch which provides power to the electrical activation subassembly 166. This moves the modified trigger arm extension 168 and the bolt member 169 so that it is withdrawn from inside the end of the of the modified boom subassembly 170, and the biasing force exerted by the biasable member 173 between the extension support post 172 and the boom 170 forces the boom to pivot in an upward position, thus lifting the head guiding subassembly 30 off of the golfer's head as the golfer follows through with their golf swing. Additionally, the trigger bolt member 169 is biased such that when the boom 170 is brought back down to reset and position the boom 170, and it connected head subassembly 30, the for another golf shot the bolt member 169 extends again into that end of the boom 170 to hold it in position for the next golf shot.

Members and elements of this embodiment, and the invention as a whole, can be made and fabricated from a number of materials including, for example, but not limited to, various types of metals, pvc-tubing in various sizes, weights and diameters and various other types of plastics or polymers, or plastic wood and/or metal combinations.

Thus, while preferred embodiments of the present golfing device invention 10 have been described and illustrated it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes can be made regarding the present invention without departing from the scope and spirit of this invention.

Claims

1. A golf swing improvement device having a boom assembly, supported by means for vertical support; a base assembly, the means for vertical support being attached to and secured by the base assembly for support thereof, and a swinging golf club sensing assembly connected to or proximate to but separate and spaced from the base assembly; the device further comprising:

the boom assembly having an inside guide member and an outside support member, the inside guide member being slideable in relation to the outside support member and having frontal and backward ends,

the frontal end of the inside guide member having an adjustable head assembly, attached thereto, with lateral portions for fitting around the side portions of the head of a practicing golfer using the device;

means for providing a biasing force between the inside guide member and the outside support member so as to draw the inside guide member to the outside support member when extended therefrom and released, said means being connected and attached to the outside support member;

the outside support member having means for triggering the activation of the means for providing a biasing force such that the inside guide member is moved to the outside support member;

the swinging golf club sensing assembly having an arm member for transferring a activating force or signal to the means for triggering the activation of the means for providing a biasing force; and

means for relatching and setting for triggering the inside guide member in relation to the outside support member for reuse.

2. A golf swing improvement device having a boom subassembly, supported by means for diagonal support; a base subassembly, the means for diagonal support being attached to and secured by the base assembly for positionable, diagonal support and positioning relative to the base assembly, and a swinging golf club sensing subassembly functionally connected to, but positionally proximate, separate and spaced from, the base subassembly; the device further comprising:

the boom subassembly having first and second ends, the first end defining a trigger bolt reception channel and the second end having a head piece coupling subassembly;

a head piece subassembly being attached to the head piece coupling subassembly;

the means for diagonal support having a triggering subassembly attached thereto, and a vertical support member attached thereto which is positioned generally transverse to the base subassembly when functionally attached to the means for diagonal support;

the triggering subassembly having means for engaging the trigger bolt reception channel when the boom subassembly is pivotably connected to the vertical support member.