GOLF TRAINING DEVICE AND METHOD THEREOF

Abstract

A golf training device, including a flash unit to generate a signaling light; and a control unit to control the generation of the signaling light, wherein the control unit controls the generation of the signaling light according to a mechanical impact threshold, and wherein the control unit controls at least a duration of the signaling light.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to golf and golf training, and more particularly, to a golf training device and a golf training method using the golf training device.

BACKGROUND

In general, golf is a sport in which a player uses an assortment of golf clubs to hit a ball into a series of holes in a course, using as few hits or strokes as possible. Golf proficiency requires the ability to make accurate, predicable, and consistent contact with the golf ball. Accordingly, golf players often practice swinging a golf club in order to hit the golf ball accurately and consistently. A key aspect of accurate and consistent hits requires the player to maintain visual focus on the golf ball through the entire execution of the golf club swing. However, during their swing, many players tend to look away from the ball location before the club makes contact with the golf ball, negatively affecting the accuracy and distance of their shots.

Accordingly, there is a need for a golf training device, and a golf training method using said golf training device, that maintains a golf player's visual focus on the golf ball during the golf swing to enhance a golf player's contact with the golf ball for accurate and consistent shots.

BRIEF SUMMARY

This summary is intended merely to introduce a simplified summary of some aspects of one or more implementations of the present disclosure. This summary is not an extensive overview, nor is it intended to identify key or critical elements of the present teachings, nor to delineate the scope of the disclosure. Rather, its purpose is merely to present one or more concepts in simplified form as a prelude to the detailed description below.

The foregoing and/or other aspects and utilities embodied in the present disclosure may be achieved by providing a golf training device, comprising: a flash unit to generate a signaling light; and a control unit to control the generation of the signaling light, wherein the control unit controls the generation of the signaling light according to a mechanical impact threshold, and wherein the control unit controls at least a duration of the signaling light.

The control unit and the flash unit can be configured to be placed separately on a golf club, and the control unit can be removable and the flash unit can be at least partially removable from the golf club.

The control unit can be configured to be placed at least 12 inches apart from the flash unit.

The control unit can control at least one of a duration of the signaling light, a pattern of the signaling light, and a color of the signaling light.

The flash unit can be configured to be placed coincident with a preferred location for striking a golf ball with the golf club.

The flash unit can comprise less than 20% of a total weight of the golf training device.

The control unit can comprise: a sensitivity input to adjust the mechanical impact threshold; and a duration input to adjust the duration of the signaling light.

The control unit can comprise: an accelerometer to detect a mechanical impact.

The control unit can control the flash unit to generate the signaling light only if the detected mechanical impact exceeds the mechanical impact threshold.

The flash unit can comprise: one or more lights to generate the signaling light; a light housing to house the one or more lights; and a base plate to allow the flash unit to be at least partially removable.

The flash unit can further comprise one or more alignment marks to align the flash unit to the preferred location for striking a golf ball with the golf club.

The base plate can comprise a hook-and-loop style fastener.

The golf training device can further comprise a transmission cable to electrically connect the control unit to the flash unit, wherein the transmission cable can be removably connected to at least one of the control unit and the flash unit, and wherein the transmission cable can physically secure the flash unit to the golf training device.

The golf training device can further comprise one or more sleeves to secure the transmission cable to the golf club.

Each of the one or more sleeves can have a different diameter.

The one or more sleeves can comprise a resilient material configured to press-fits around a shaft of the golf club and around the transmission cable.

The one or more sleeves can comprise a cable channel to receive the transmission cable and a shaft channel to receive the shaft.

The one or more sleeves can comprise an anti-slip spine disposed within the shaft channel to provide a high-friction shim between the shaft and the one or more sleeves to prevent rotation or vertical slip of the one or more sleeves in relation to the shaft.

The foregoing and/or other aspects and utilities embodied in the present disclosure may also be achieved by providing a method of golf training, comprising: equipping a golf club with a golf training device; adjusting a signaling light of the golf training device to focus the attention of a user to a preferred point of impact between the golf club and a golf ball; and adjusting a mechanical impact threshold of the golf training device according to the golf club used, wherein the golf training device comprises: a flash unit to generate the signaling light, and a control unit to control the generation of the signaling light, wherein the control unit controls a duration of the signaling light and the mechanical impact threshold.

The control unit can comprise a sensitivity input to adjust the mechanical impact threshold, and a duration input to adjust the duration of the signaling light, and wherein the control unit and the flash unit can be configured to be placed separately on a golf club, and wherein the control unit can be removable and the flash unit can be at least partially removable from the golf club.

Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in, and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate implementations of the present teachings and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. In the figures:

FIG. 1 illustrates a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic diagram for a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 illustrates a control unit for a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates a control unit for a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates a control unit for a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates a flash unit for a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates a flash unit for a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates a flash unit for a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 illustrates a flash unit for a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates a sleeve for a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates a sleeve for a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 illustrates a sleeve for a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 illustrates a golf training method using a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 illustrates a golf training method using a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

FIG. 15 illustrates a combined unit for a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 illustrates a combined unit for a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

It should be noted that some details of the figures have been simplified and are drawn to facilitate understanding of the present teachings rather than to maintain strict structural accuracy, detail, and scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary implementations of the present teachings, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Generally, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

Throughout the specification and claims, the following terms take the meanings explicitly associated herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Phrases, such as, “in an implementation,” “in certain implementations,” and “in some implementations” as used herein do not necessarily refer to the same implementation(s), though they may. Furthermore, the phrases “in another implementation” and “in some other implementations” as used herein do not necessarily refer to a different implementation, although they may. As described below, various implementations can be readily combined, without departing from the scope or spirit of the present disclosure.

As used herein, the term “or” is an inclusive operator, and is equivalent to the term “and/or,” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term “based on” is not exclusive and allows for being based on additional factors not described, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In the specification, the recitation of “at least one of A, B, and C,” includes implementations containing A, B, or C, multiple examples of A, B, or C, or combinations of A/B, A/C, B/C, A/B/B, B/B/C, A/B/C, etc. In addition, throughout the specification, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references. The meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on.” Similarly, implementations of the present disclosure may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, the elements A, B, C, etc.

It will also be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first object, component, or step could be termed a second object, component, or step, and, similarly, a second object, component, or step could be termed a first object, component, or step, without departing from the scope of the invention. The first object, component, or step, and the second object, component, or step, are both, objects, components, or steps, respectively, but they are not to be considered the same object, component, or step. It will be further understood that the terms “includes,” “including,” “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. Further, as used herein, the term “if” can be construed to mean “when” or “upon” or “in response to determining” or “in response to detecting,” depending on the context.

All physical properties that are defined hereinafter are measured at 20° C. to 25° C. (68° F. to 77° F.) unless otherwise specified.

When referring to any numerical range of values herein, such ranges are understood to include each and every number and/or fraction between the stated range minimum and maximum, as well as the endpoints. For example, a range of 0.5% to 6% would expressly include all intermediate values of, for example, 0.6%, 0.7%, and 0.9%, all the way up to and including 5.95%, 5.97%, and 5.99%, among many others. The same applies to each other numerical property and/or elemental range set forth herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Additionally, all numerical values are “about” or “approximately” the indicated value, and take into account experimental error and variations that would be expected by a person having ordinary skill in the art. It should be appreciated that all numerical values and ranges disclosed herein are approximate values and ranges. The terms “about” or “substantial” and “substantially” or “approximately,” with reference to amounts or measurement values, are meant that the recited characteristic, parameter, or values need not be achieved exactly. Rather, deviations or variations, including, for example, tolerances, measurement error, measurement accuracy limitations, and other factors known to those skilled in the art, may occur in amounts that do not preclude the effect that the characteristic was intended to provide. As used herein, “about” is to mean within +/−10% of a stated target value, maximum, or minimum value.

With regard to procedures, methods, techniques, and workflows that are in accordance with some implementations, some operations in the procedures, methods, techniques, and workflows disclosed herein can be combined and/or the order of some operations can be changed.

FIG. 1 illustrates a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic diagram for a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-2, a golf training device 100 includes a control unit 200 and a flash unit 300. The golf training device 100 can further include a transmission cable 400. The golf training device 100 can also further include one or more sleeves 500 to secure the transmission cable 400 to the golf club 10.

The control unit 200 and the flash unit 300 can be separately placed on a golf club 10. The control unit 200 can be removable, and the flash unit 300 can be at least partially removable from the golf club 10. For example, the control unit 200 can be placed on a shaft 11 of the golf club 10 and the flash unit 300 can be placed on a head 12 of the golf club 10. The control unit 200 can be placed near a grip 15 of the golf club 10 to facilitate user access. For example, the control unit 200 can be placed within 6 inches of the lower edge of the grip 15. The control unit 200 can be placed a distance apart from the flash unit 300. For example, the control unit 200 can be placed at least 12 inches apart from the flash unit 300. In other implementations, the control unit 200 can be placed at least 16 inches apart, at least 18 inches apart, at least 20 inches apart, or at least 24 inches apart from the flash unit 300. The separate placement of the control unit 200 and the flash unit 300 improves the weight distribution of the golf training device 100 on the golf club 10 and helps reduce the possible effects of the mass and/or weight of the golf training device 100 on the swing of the golf club 10. While not limited to any particular theory, the inventors belief that by placing the relatively heavier components of the golf training device 100 into the control unit 200 and placing the control unit 200 closer to a center of the swing arc, i.e. high on the shaft 11, a rotational inertia of the golf club 10 during a swing can be lowered compared to locating the entire mass of a training device on or near the head 12, and the effects of the additional mass on a golfer's swing can be lessened, such that the golfer's swing will remain the same or similar when the golf training device 100 is removed after training. That is, moving a large portion of the weight of the golf training device 100 from the head 12 to beneath a grip 15 of the shaft 11 helps balance the weight impact of the golf training device 100 on the golf club 10 and helps minimize changes to the rotational inertia of the golf club 10 during a swing. In one implementation, less than 20% of the weight of the golf training device 100 is located on the head 12.

The control unit 200 and the golf training device 100 is generally ambidextrous. That is, the golf training device 100 can be installed and used on either left-handed or right-handed clubs.

The golf training device 100 is configured to be at least partially removable from the golf club 10, and in some implementations, fully removable from the golf club 10. In some implementations, the golf training device 100 can be separated for compact transport and storage. For example, the control unit 200 and the flash unit 300 can be easily separated for storage. Similarly, the one or more sleeves 500 and the transmission cable 400 can also be separated for transport and storage.

While the figures of the present specification describe the golf club head 12 as a driver head, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and implementations of the present disclosure can be used with other types of golf club 10 or head 12. The shape of the head 12 is only representative, and the actual shape can be dependent upon the specific club type, model, and manufacturer. However, as described below, in preferred embodiments, the flash unit 300 is placed coincident with a preferred location for striking the golf ball 31 with the golf club 10 in order to facilitate the training stimulus of the golf training device 100 (see FIGS. 9 and 13).

The flash unit 300 can generate a signaling light 310, and the control unit 200 can control the flash unit 300 to generate the signaling light 310. The signaling light 310 can be generated according to a predetermined input. For example, the signaling light 310 can be generated according to an impact detected by the control unit 200. In one implementation, the control unit 200 detects an impact on the golf club 10. The control unit 200 can control the generation of the signaling light 310 according to a mechanical impact threshold. The control unit 200 can control at least one of a duration of the signaling light 310, a pattern of the signaling light 310, and a color of the signaling light 310. For example, the control unit 200 can control the duration of the signaling light 310.

The flash unit 300 comprises one or more lights 390 to generate the signaling light 310. For example, the one or more lights 390 can be implemented as a light-emitting diode (LED) 398 and the flash unit 300 can comprise an LED 398 to generate the signaling light 310 according to one or more signals from the control unit 200. The one or more lights 390 and/or the LED 398 can be an analog device, and the control unit 200 can control the generation of the signaling light 310 by controlling an electrical current provided to the flash unit 300. For example, in one implementation, the control unit 200 provides an electrical current 210 to the flash unit 300 to control the flash unit 300 to generate the signaling light 310.

The control unit 200 can provide the electrical current 210 according to a predetermined input. The flash unit 300 receives the electrical current 210 and generates a signaling light 310 according to the electrical current 210 received. The electrical current 210 provided by the control unit 200 can control at least one of a duration of the signaling light 310, a pattern of the signaling light 310, and a color of the signaling light 310. In one implementation, the electrical current 210 controls the duration of the signaling light 310. For example, the control unit 200 can control a period of time that the electrical current 210 is provided to the flash unit 300 to control a duration of the signaling light 310 and/or a pattern of the signaling light 310. In addition, in cases where the flash unit includes a multi-color LED 398 or one or more lights 390, the control unit can control which of the red/green/blue channels of the multi-color LED 398 or which of the one or more lights 390 receives the electrical current 210 to control a color and/or a pattern of the signaling light 310.

The golf training device 100 can further include a transmission cable 400 to transmit the electrical current 210 from the control unit 200 to the flash unit 300. The golf training device 100 can further include one or more sleeves 500 to secure the transmission cable 400 to a shaft 11 of the golf club 10.

FIGS. 3-5 illustrate a control unit for a golf training device according to implementations of the present disclosure. FIGS. 3-5 illustrates examples of a control unit 200 that, for instance, could be used with the golf training device 100 described above and as illustrated in FIGS. 1-2. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-5, a control unit 200 can include a control unit housing 240 and a control unit connector 260.

The control unit 200 can further include one or more interfaces 202. The one or more interfaces 202 allow a user to adjust the operation of the golf training device 100. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the control unit 200 can include a power switch 292 to power-on/power-off the golf training device 100, a power status indicator 293 to indicate a power status of the golf training device 100, a sensitivity input 294 to adjust the predetermined input, such as the mechanical impact threshold, and a duration input 295 to adjust a duration of the signaling light 310.

In other implementations, the control unit 200 can further include additional or different interfaces to adjust the operation of the golf training device 100. For example, the control unit 200 can include interfaces to adjust a pattern of the signaling light 310 and/or a color of the signaling light 310, interfaces to control a wireless connection of the control unit 200 and the flash unit 300, such as Bluetooth connectivity, etc.

The control unit housing 240 can house one or more electronic components of the golf training device 100. For example, the control unit housing 240 can house power, sensing, logic, and user control components of the control unit 200 as described below. The control unit housing 240 can be water-proof or water-resistant and can shield the one or more electronic components from the environment. The control unit housing 240 can be impact-resistant or comprise a resilient material. The control unit housing 240 can include a plastic or polymer material. For example, the control unit housing 240 can include a polycarbonate polymer.

The control unit connector 260 can secure the control unit 200 to the golf club 10. For example, the control unit connector 260 can removably attach the control unit 200 to a shaft 11 of the golf club 10. The control unit connector 260 is adjustable and is configured to secure to different sizes or diameters of a golf club 10 or a shaft 11. In some implementations, the control unit connector 260 removably attaches the control unit 200 to the golf club 10.

The control unit connector 260 can be implemented as a thumbscrew hinged clamp configured to allow the removable attachment of the control unit 200 to the shaft 11. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the control unit connector 260 can include an upper clamp arch 261, a lower clamp arch 262, an elastomer c-clip 263, and a thumbscrew fastener 264. The upper clamp arch 261 can be integrated to the control until housing 240. For example, the upper clamp arch 261 can be integrally formed with the control unit housing 240, such as during a single molding operation. The lower clamp arch 262 can be articulated and connected at a hinge to one side of the upper clamp arch 261. The upper clamp arch 261 and the lower clamp arch 262 can be configured to clamp around and accommodate various shaft 11 diameters. The elastomer c-clip 263 can be disposed within an inner surface of the upper clamp arch 261 and the lower clamp arch 262 facing the shaft 11 and can cushion the shaft 11 to prevent damage or marring of the golf club 10 when the thumbscrew fastener 264 is used to tighten the upper clamp arch 261 and the lower clamp arch 262 around the shaft 11. While FIGS. 1-6 describe the control unit connector 260 with respect to a thumbscrew hinged clamp, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the control unit connector 260 can be implemented as other devices to securely and removably attach the control unit 200 to the golf club 10.

The control unit 200 can attach at a single point to prevent or minimize an amount of mechanical stress induced on the control unit 200 and/or the golf club 10 during a swing of the golf club 10. For example, the control unit 200 can attach at a single point of the shaft 11 to allow the shaft 11 to flex during a swing.

As illustrated in FIGS. 3-4, the control unit housing 240 can include one or more bumpers 245. The one or more bumpers 245 can be disposed on an underside of the control unit housing 240 facing the shaft 11. The one or more bumpers 245 can prevent direct contact between the shaft 11 and the control unit housing 240 during a swing of the golf club 10. The one or more bumpers 245 can include an elastomer or rubber material, and the one or more bumpers 245 can cushion any contact from flexing of the shaft 11 during a swing of the golf club 10.

The control unit 200 can be attached to an upper portion of the golf club 10 opposite a head 12 of the golf club. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-5, the control unit 200 can be removably attached to the golf club 10 below a grip 15. Attaching the control unit 200 below the grip 15 facilitates the ability of a user to interface with the control unit 200. In addition, attaching the control unit 200 to an upper portion of the golf club 10 reduces the effects on the swing that may be caused by adding the mass and/or weight of the control unit 200 to the shaft 11.

FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic diagram for a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 2, a control unit 200 can include one or more electronic or functional components of the golf training device 100. For example, the control unit 200 can include an accelerometer 296, a controller 291, and a flash controller 297. The control unit can further include a sensitivity input 294 and/or a duration input 295. The control unit 200 can further include a power source 290, a power switch 292, and a power status indicator 293.

The accelerometer 296 can detect when the golf club 10 strikes a golf ball 31 during a swing. For example, the accelerometer 296 can measure an acceleration due to an impact on the golf club 10 as the mechanical shock from the impact propagates from the head 12 through the shaft 11 to the accelerometer 296 in the control unit 200. Usually, the time for the mechanical shock to propagate from the head 12 to the accelerometer 296 is less than 0.2 milliseconds (200 microseconds).

Accordingly, in one implementation, the control unit 200 includes an accelerometer 296 to detect a mechanical impact. For example, the accelerometer 296 can detect a mechanical impact on the golf club 10 and generates an impact signal 220. The mechanical impact can be a result of the golf club 10 hitting the golf ball 31. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the accelerometer 296 is in communication with the controller 291, and the accelerometer 296 transmits the impact signal 220 to the controller 291.

In some implementations, the accelerometer 296 includes a mechanical impact threshold, and the impact signal 220 is only generated if the detected mechanical impact exceeds the mechanical impact threshold. In some implementations, the controller 291 can adjust the mechanical impact threshold in the accelerometer 296 to increase or decrease the sensitivity to mechanical shock of the accelerometer 296. Accordingly, in some implementations, the control unit 200 controls the flash unit 300 to generate the signaling light 310 only if the detected mechanical impact exceeds the mechanical impact threshold.

The accelerometer 296 can include one or more MEMS devices. For example, the accelerometer can include a MEMS digital output motion sensor manufactured by ST Micro.

The controller 291 controls a logical operation of the golf training device 100. The controller 291 can include one or more microcontrollers. For example, the controller 291 can include an ATTINY816 microcontroller manufactured by Microchip. The controller 291 can receive the impact signal 220 from the accelerometer 296 to generate a controller signal 230.

The flash controller 297 can control the flash unit 300. For example, the flash controller 297 can control an electrical current 210 provided to the flash unit 300. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the controller 291 is in communication with the flash controller 297, and the controller 291 can transmit the controller signal 230 to the flash controller 297. The flash controller 297 can receive the controller signal 230 from the controller 291 and provide the electrical current 210 to the flash unit 300.

The controller 291 can adjust the electrical current 210 provided by the flash controller 297 to adjust at least one of a duration of the signaling light 310, a pattern of the signaling light 310, and a color of the signaling light 310. For example, the flash controller 297 can be implemented as a constant current source that regulates the current from the power source 290 to the flash unit 300. Accordingly, the controller 291 can control the flash controller 297 to switch a constant current electrical supply to the flash unit 300 to control the signaling light 310 generated by the flash unit 200. In another implementation, the electrical current 210 controls a color of the signaling light 310. The controller 291 can select a “red”, “green”, or “blue” color each time a signaling light 310 is generated. The color may be selected pseudo-randomly by the controller 291 to prevent the user from predicting the color of the signaling light 310. In other implementations, the color of the signaling light 310 can be set by the user through a color input interface. For example, the flash unit 300 can include a multi-color LED 398, such as a 3 Watt RGB LED manufactured by Chanzon. The LED 398 can include 3 separate LED elements (red, green, and blue) combined into a single lens element. Each color channel in the LED 398 can use a forward voltage between 280 and 350 mA. The luminous flux of each channel can be between 30 and 80 lumens. The light output of the LED 398 can be bright enough to be seen by a user when used outside in daylight. Accordingly, the connected controller 291 can switch a constant current electrical supply for one of the three color elements in the LED 398 through the flash controller 297. In other implementations, the red, green, and/or blue color elements can be powered simultaneously in different combinations and intensities to produce the visual effect of other colors, as is well known in the art.

The power source 290 can power the golf training device 100. For example, the power source 290 can include one or more batteries (not illustrated) configured to provide power to at least one of the control unit 200 and the flash unit 300. For example, the power source 290 can include a single CR2-style Lithium Manganese Dioxide (Li/MnO2) battery capable of powering a 5.5V boost converter circuit. The power source 290 can power the electrical current 210 provided by the control unit 200 to the flash unit 300.

The power switch 292 allows a user to power-on the golf training device 100. For example, the power switch 292 can toggle the golf training device 100 between “on” and “off” power modes. In one implementation, the power switch 292 is a push button switch that toggles the controller 291 between an active state and a low-powered “sleep” mode to conserve battery life.

The power status indicator 293 indicates a power status of the golf training device 100. The power status indicator 293 can include colored LEDs to indicate an “on” or “off” status of the golf training device 100. For example, the power status indicator 293 can be connected to the controller 291, and the controller 291 can set the power status indicator 293 to display a green light when the golf training device 100 is “on,” display no light when the golf training device 100 is “off,” and display a red light when a voltage from the power source 290 drops below a threshold needed to operate elements of the golf training device 100, such as the flash unit 300 or sub-components of the control unit 200. A red light can be used to notify a user that a battery replacement will soon be needed to continue operating of the golf training device 100.

Golfers may have a wide range of swing speeds, and therefore generate different striking forces, when hitting a golf ball 31 with a golf club 10. Furthermore, different types of golf clubs are used during different segments of a golf game. The impact forces generated when hitting a golf ball 31 from a tee with a golf driver are larger than the forces generated with a putter on the green. Accordingly, having the ability to adjust the sensitivity allows a user to use the same golf training device 100 on a driver and a putter which otherwise experience greatly different impact forces. The sensitivity input 294 provides the user an interactive means to adjust the generation of the signaling light 310. For example, the sensitivity input 294 can adjust the predetermined input used to generate the signaling light 310. In one implementation, the sensitivity input 294 can adjust the mechanical impact threshold in the accelerometer 296 to increase or decrease a sensitivity of the accelerometer. The sensitivity input 294 can be a dial connected to the controller 291 to set the mechanical impact threshold. In one implementation, the sensitivity input 294 is a rotary potentiometer that is connected to an analog input of the controller 291. The controller 291 can measure a voltage level setting of the sensitivity input 294 with an 8-bit internal analog-to-digital converter. The controller 291 can use the setting of the sensitivity input 294 to set the mechanical impact threshold of the accelerometer 296 required to generate the impact signal 220. For example, a user twisting the sensitivity input 294 clockwise will increase the device sensitivity, triggering the signaling light 310 with relatively lower measured accelerations. A user twisting the sensitivity input 294 counterclockwise will decrease the device sensitivity, triggering the signaling light 310 with relatively higher measured accelerations.

The duration of the signaling light 310 may allow users of different skill levels to use the golf training device 100. For example, a longer duration signaling light 310 can be easier to see by an inexperienced or untrained user. As the visual skill of the user improves, the duration of the pulse may be shortened to provide more of a challenge and further refine visual focus. Accordingly, the duration input 295 can adjust a duration of the signaling light 310. The duration input 295 can be a dial connected to the controller 291 to set a duration of the signaling light 310. For example, the duration input 295 can be a rotary potentiometer that is connected to an analog input of the controller 291. The controller 291 can measure a voltage level setting of the duration input 295 with an 8-bit internal analog-to-digital converter. The controller 291 can use the setting of the duration input 295 to set the duration of the signaling light 310. For example, the duration of the signaling light 310 can be set to between about 10 milliseconds and 100 milliseconds. In one implementation, the duration of the signaling light is about 10 milliseconds for an experienced user and about 90 milliseconds for a new or untrained user. A user twisting the duration input 295 clockwise can increase the duration of the signaling light 310. A user twisting the duration input 295 counterclockwise can decrease the duration of the signaling light 310.

FIGS. 6-9 illustrate a flash unit for a golf training device according to implementations of the present disclosure. FIGS. 6-9 illustrates examples of a flash unit 300 that, for instance, could be used with the golf training device 100 described above and as illustrated in FIGS. 1-5. As described above, the flash unit 300 is placed separately on the golf club 10 from the control unit 200. The flash unit 300 can be removably attached to the golf club 10. In some implementations, the flash unit 300 is at least partially removably attached to the golf club 10.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1-9, a flash unit 300 can include one or more lights 390 to generate the signaling light 310. For example, the flash unit 300 can include an LED 398 to generate the signaling light 310. In one implementation, the flash unit 300 includes one multi-color LED 398.

The flash unit 300 can include a light housing 370 to house the one or more lights 390 to generate the signaling light 310. For example, the light housing 370 can house the LED 398. The flash unit 300 can further include a base plate 372 to secure the light housing 370 to the golf club 10. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 6-9, the base plate 372 can secure the light housing 370 to the head 12 of a golf club 10. In a preferred implementation, the flash unit 300 is placed coincident, or substantially coincident, with a preferred location of the golf ball 31 being struck by the golf club 10 in order to facilitate the training stimulus of the golf training device 100 (see FIGS. 9 and 13). In some implementations, the flash unit 300 consists essentially of the one or more lights 390 or LED 398, the light housing 370, and the base plate 372, in order to minimize the weight of the flash unit 300 in relation to the other components of the golf training device 100.

The light housing 370 can comprise an impact-resistant or resilient material. The light housing 370 can include a plastic or polymer material. For example, the light housing 370 can include a polycarbonate polymer. The light housing 370 can further include a semi-clear or transparent window 371. The window 371 can allow light from the LED 398 to shine through the light housing 370 while providing mechanical protection to the internal LED 398 in the case a golf ball 31 inadvertently collides with the flash unit 300 during a swing of the golf club 10.

The base plate 372 can attach to the head 12 of the golf club 10 to secure the light housing 370 to the golf club 10. The base plate 372 can comprise a semi-rigid or elastic material to allow the base plate 372 to conform, or partially conform, to a shape of the head 12. For example, the base plate 372 can comprise a 2-sided adhesive layer to attach the base plate 372 to the head 12 and to attach the light housing 370 to the base plate 372. The base plate 372 can be elongated to provide an increased surface area to resist the shearing forces that result from hitting a golf ball 31 during a swing.

In some implementations, it may not be desirable for the entirety of the flash unit 300 to be permanently attached to the head 12 as this may interfere with normal use of the golf club 10 or violate the rules of golf during game play. Accordingly, in an implementation, the base plate 372 allows the flash unit 300 to be at least partially removable. For example, the base plate 372 can be integrally formed with the light housing 370, and the base plate 372 can comprise a detachable fastener 375 to allow the base plate 372 to be removably attached to the head 12. In another embodiment, the base plate 372 is permanently joined or bonded with the light housing 370.

The base plate 372 can include a hook-and-loop style fastener. For example, the detachable fastener 375 can comprise a hook-and-loop style adhesive fastener. The base plate 372 can comprise complementary portions of a hook and loop fastener to at least partially removably secure the flash unit 300 to the head 12. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 6-7, a loop-side pad 376 can be adhered to the underside of the base plate 372 and a hook-side pad 377 can be adhered to a top side of the head 12. The hook-and-loop action of the loop-side pad 376 and the hook-side pad 377 provides a means to removably and securely attach the flash unit 300 to the head 12 of the golf club 10. In some implementation, the position of the loop-side pad 376 and the hook-side pad 377 can be reversed. In some implementations, at least one of the loop-side pad 376 and the hook-side pad 377 remains on the head 12 when the flash unit 300 is removed. As illustrated in FIGS. 6-7, the detachable fastener 375 secures the flash unit 300 to the head 12 while allowing the flash unit 300 to be at least partially removed when a user is finished training with the golf training device 100.

When implemented as a hook-and-loop style fastener, the detachable fastener 375 provides relatively strong resistance to shearing forces (that result from striking a golf ball 31 during a swing) while maintaining relatively weak resistance to tensile forces (which simplify removal). Furthermore, the detachable fastener 375 allows for repeated connections and disconnections, simplifying the transition between using a golf club 10 for training and using the same golf club 10 for playing golf, with the golf training device removed, or at least partially removed. The detachable fastener 375 also allows a golf training device 100 to be transferred among different types of clubs, for example a user could switch easily between a driver and putter.

While FIGS. 6-9 illustrate the detachable fastener 375 as a hook-and-loop style fastener, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and implementations of the present disclosure can be made using other types of detachable fastener 375 that allow for the attachment and at least partial removal of the flash unit 300 from the head 12. For example, the detachable fastener 375 can comprise a belt, sock, elastomer band, suction cup, or adhesive tape.

The flash unit 300 can further include one or more alignment marks 373. The one or more alignment marks 373 can assist a user with aligning the flash unit 300 on the head 12, preferably with a center of a club head face 14 and/or closest to a preferred location to target the golf ball 31 during a swing. In one implementation, the flash unit 300 comprises one or more alignment marks 373 to allow a user to align the flash unit 300 on the head 12. In another implementation, at least one the base plate 372 or the light housing 370 comprises the one or more alignment marks 373. The one or more alignment marks 373 can correspond to a center of the head 12 or the club head face 14. Accordingly, in some implementations, the flash unit 300 can further comprise one or more alignment marks 373 to align the flash unit 300 to the preferred location for striking a golf ball 31 with the golf club 10.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the golf training device 100 can further include a transmission cable 400. The transmission cable 400 electrically connects the control unit 200 to the flash unit 300. The transmission cable 400 can be permanently fixed to at least one of the control unit 200 and the flash unit 300. In other implementations, the transmission cable 400 is removably connected to at least one of the control unit 200 and the flash unit 300. The transmission cable 400 allows the control unit 200 to control the flash unit 300 to generate the signaling light 310. In one implementation, the transmission cable 400 can transmit the electrical current 210 from the control unit 200 to the flash unit 300. In another implementation, the transmission cable 400 provides electrical power to the flash unit 300 and/or the LED 398.

The transmission cable 400 can physically secure the flash unit 300 to the golf club 10. As described above, at the moment a golf ball 31 is hit during a swing, there is a significant deceleration of the head 12. This force may dislodge the flash unit 300 if it is insufficiently anchored to the head 12. Accordingly, the transmission cable 400 can be secured to the flash unit 300. If the flash unit 300 is inadvertently dislodged from the head 12 during a swing, the attached transmission cable 400 prevents the flash unit 300 from completely separating from the golf club 10 and/or the golf training device 100. In addition, because a majority of the electronic components of the golf training device 100 may reside in the control unit 200, the flash unit 300 is comparatively lightweight, decreasing the likelihood of separation during a swing.

In some implementations, the transmission cable 400 can be easily detached from the control unit 200, allowing different types of flash unit 300 to be used with the same control unit 200. For example, allowing the easy exchange of a flash unit 300 configured for use on a putter to a flash unit 300 configured to use on a driver. In addition, the easy detachment of the transmission cable 400 also allows for quick replacement of a flash unit 300 in case of malfunction or damage.

The transmission cable 400 can comprise one or more insulated conductor cables and a ground shield. One of the one or more insulated conductor cables can be used for a return ground for each of the three colored elements “red,” “green,” and “blue” in the LED 398. The fourth wire can be used for a common voltage supply. The ground shield can be used to reduce any potential electromagnetic emissions from the transmission cable 400.

FIGS. 10-12 illustrate a sleeve for a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure. FIGS. 10-12 illustrates examples of one or more sleeves 500 that, for instance, could be used with the golf training device 100 described above and as illustrated in FIGS. 1-9. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-12, the golf training device 100 can further include one or more sleeves 500 to secure the transmission cable 400 to the golf club 10. The one or more sleeves 500 assist in keeping the transmission cable 400 close to the shaft 11 during a swing of the golf club 10 and reduce swing interference. Each of the one or more sleeves 500 can be shaped to correspond to a tapering of the shaft 11. For example, each of the one or more sleeves 500 can be differently sized or tapered to correspond to a different diameter of the shaft 11. In one implementation, each of the one or more sleeves 500 has a different diameter.

The one or more sleeves 500 can comprise an elastomer. For example, the one or more sleeves 500 can comprise a resilient material that press-fits around a shaft 11 of the golf club 10 and around the transmission cable 400. For example, the one or more sleeves 500 can comprise a dedicated channel to press around the shaft 11 and a separate channel to press around the transmission cable 400.

In one implementation, each of the one or more sleeves 500 comprises a cable channel 540 to receive the transmission cable 400 and a shaft channel 511 to receive the shaft 11 of the golf club 10.

Each of the one or more sleeves 500 can comprise an anti-slip spine 580 disposed within the shaft channel 511 to provide a high-friction shim between the shaft 11 and the one or more sleeves 500 to prevent rotation and/or vertical slip of the one or more sleeves 500 in relation to the shaft 11. In another implementation, the one or more sleeves 500 comprise an elastomer that provides a sufficient gripping power and/or friction to reduce the need for the anti-slip spine 580.

In another implementation, each of the one or more sleeves 500 can include a high-friction coating or other cushioning agents within at least one of the cable channel 540 and the shaft channel 511 to reduce movement relative to the transmission cable 400 and/or the shaft 11. As illustrated in FIGS. 11-12, the flexible properties of the one or more sleeves 500 allow them to press fit onto the club shaft 11, securely hold the transmission cable 400 in place during a swing, and easily detach from the shaft 11 after a training session is ended.

FIGS. 13-14 illustrate a golf training method using a golf training device according to an implementation of the present disclosure. FIGS. 13-14 illustrates examples of a method that, for instance, could be used with the golf training device 100 described above and as illustrated in FIGS. 1-12.

Broadly speaking, as illustrated in FIGS. 13-14, the golf training device 100 assists golfers with maintaining their visual focus on the location of a golf ball 31 or preferred golf ball strike location while completing a swing of the golf club 10.

As illustrated in FIGS. 13-14, as the head 12 strikes a golf ball 31, a flash of light or signaling light 310 is produced by the flash unit 300 near the location of the golf ball 31 being struck. As illustrated, the control unit 200 is located near the hands of the golfer 30 to facilitate adjusting the operation of the golf training device 100 and reduce rotational inertia of the golf club 10 with an attached mass.

While not limited to any particular theory, implementations of the present invention rely on at least three training phenomena to improve swing consistency: anticipation, observation, and confirmation. When using the present invention, the anticipation of seeing the signaling light 310 at the moment the golf club 10 strikes the golf ball 31 encourages a golfer 30 to focus on the golf ball 31 location through the entire swing and not be distracted by looking up too quickly to see where the golf ball 31 is heading. Observation of the signaling light 310 at the golf ball 31 location on impact reinforces the eye-hand coordination of a well-executed swing. Because the color and/or pattern of the signaling light 310 can be unpredictable (one implementation uses pseudo-random red, green, or blue flashes other implementations use differing light patterns), being able to correctly identify the color and/or pattern of the signaling light 310 provides confirmation that the player was watching the golf ball 31 throughout the swing.

FIG. 14 illustrates the visual effect of changing the duration of the signaling light 310. As illustrated in FIG. 14, during a swing, the signaling light 310 is triggered by the head 12 hitting the golf ball 31. A longer duration signaling light 310 (801), shown on the left side of the diagram, remains illuminated for a longer arc of a swing. A shorter duration signaling light 310 (802), shown on the right side of the diagram, remains illuminated for a shorter arc of a swing. Usually, it is easier for a new or untrained golfer 30 to detect a longer duration signaling light 310. As a golfer 30 becomes more proficient, the duration of the signaling light 310 may be reduced to make it relatively more difficult to see the signaling light 310 during a swing and further train visual focus. The perceived arc of the shorter duration signaling light 310 is closer to the location of the golf ball 31 during a swing. The user may gradually reduce the duration of the signaling light 310 using the control unit 200 interfaces to improve visual focus toward the golf ball 31 during a swing.

Accordingly, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-14, a method of golf training 800, includes equipping a golf club 10 with a golf training device 100; adjusting a signaling light 310 of the golf training device 100 to focus the attention of a user or golfer 30 to a preferred point of impact between the golf club 10 and a golf ball 31; and adjusting a mechanical impact threshold of the golf training device 100 according to the golf club used, wherein the golf training device 100 includes a flash unit 300 to generate the signaling light 310, and a control unit 200 to control the generation of the signaling light 310, wherein the control unit 200 controls a duration of the signaling light 310 and the mechanical impact threshold.

FIGS. 15-16 illustrate a combined unit for a golf training device according to another implementation of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIGS. 15-16, in another implementation, one or more components of the control unit 200 and the flash unit 300 described above can be incorporated into an integrated club head 17. As illustrated in FIG. 16, a cavity 320 may be created within the integrated club head 17 to house one or more components of the control unit 200 and flash unit 300. The cavity 320 can comprise one or more lights 390 to generate the signaling light 310, and the integrated club head 17 can include a window 321 of semi-clear or transparent material to let the signaling light 310 shine through the integrated club head 17 while providing impact protection. The cavity 320 can include an accelerometer 296 to detect an impact on the integrated club head 17, and a controller 291 to control an electrical current 210 provided to the one or more lights 390 to generate the signaling light 310, as described above. The one or more lights 390 to generate the signaling light 310 can comprise an LED 398 as described above. A weight of the integrated club head 17 can be reduced to balance any additional weight from adding the components of the control unit 200 and flash unit 300 to the cavity 320. In some implementations, the cavity 320 further comprises an integrated power source 322 (not illustrated) to power the one or more lights 390 in the integrated club head 17, to power the components of the control unit 200 incorporated into the cavity 320, and to power the electrical current 210 provided to the one or more lights 390. The power source 322 can be implemented as a rechargeable battery and an inductive charge to charge the rechargeable battery. In other implementations, the integrated club head 17 includes an external connector or conductive contacts to power or recharge the integrated club head 17.

The present disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary implementations. Although a few implementations have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes may be made in these implementations without departing from the principles and spirit of preceding detailed description. It is intended that the present disclosure be construed as including all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A golf training device, comprising:

a flash unit to generate a signaling light; and

a control unit to control the generation of the signaling light,

wherein the control unit controls the generation of the signaling light according to a mechanical impact threshold, and

wherein the control unit controls at least a duration of the signaling light.

2. The golf training device of claim 1, wherein the control unit and the flash unit are configured to be placed separately on a golf club, and wherein the control unit is removable and the flash unit is at least partially removable from the golf club.

3. The golf training device of claim 2, wherein the control unit is configured to be placed at least 12 inches apart from the flash unit.

4. The golf training device of claim 1, wherein the control unit controls at least one of a duration of the signaling light, a pattern of the signaling light, and a color of the signaling light.

5. The golf training device of claim 2, wherein the flash unit is configured to be placed coincident with a preferred location for striking a golf ball with the golf club.

6. The golf training device of claim 2, wherein the flash unit comprises less than 20% of a total weight of the golf training device.

7. The golf training device of claim 1, wherein the control unit comprises:

a sensitivity input to adjust the mechanical impact threshold; and

a duration input to adjust the duration of the signaling light.

8. The golf training device of claim 1, wherein the control unit comprises:

an accelerometer to detect a mechanical impact.

9. The golf training device of claim 8, wherein the control unit controls the flash unit to generate the signaling light only if the detected mechanical impact exceeds the mechanical impact threshold.

10. The golf training device of claim 2, wherein the flash unit comprises:

one or more lights to generate the signaling light;

a light housing to house the one or more lights; and

a base plate to allow the flash unit to be at least partially removable.

11. The golf training device of claim 10, wherein the flash unit further comprises one or more alignment marks to align the flash unit to the preferred location for striking a golf ball with the golf club.

12. The golf training device of claim 10, wherein the base plate comprises a hook-and-loop style fastener.

13. The golf training device of claim 2, further comprising a transmission cable to electrically connect the control unit to the flash unit,

wherein the transmission cable is removably connected to at least one of the control unit and the flash unit, and

wherein the transmission cable physically secures the flash unit to the golf training device.

14. The golf training device of claim 13, further comprising one or more sleeves to secure the transmission cable to the golf club.

15. The golf training device of claim 14, wherein each of the one or more sleeves has a different diameter.

16. The golf training device of claim 14, wherein the one or more sleeves comprise a resilient material configured to press-fits around a shaft of the golf club and around the transmission cable.

17. The golf training device of claim 16, wherein the one or more sleeves comprise a cable channel to receive the transmission cable and a shaft channel to receive the shaft.

18. The golf training device of claim 17, wherein the one or more sleeves comprise an anti-slip spine disposed within the shaft channel to provide a high-friction shim between the shaft and the one or more sleeves to prevent rotation or vertical slip of the one or more sleeves in relation to the shaft.

19. A method of golf training, comprising:

equipping a golf club with a golf training device;

adjusting a signaling light of the golf training device to focus the attention of a user to a preferred point of impact between the golf club and a golf ball; and

adjusting a mechanical impact threshold of the golf training device according to the golf club used,

wherein the golf training device comprises: a flash unit to generate the signaling light, and a control unit to control the generation of the signaling light, wherein the control unit controls a duration of the signaling light and the mechanical impact threshold.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the control unit comprises a sensitivity input to adjust the mechanical impact threshold, and a duration input to adjust the duration of the signaling light, and wherein the control unit and the flash unit are configured to be placed separately on a golf club, and wherein the control unit is removable and the flash unit is at least partially removable from the golf club.