Ball Feeding Means And Tee Patents (Class 473/132)
  • Patent number: 10708578
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an adjusting device, a 3D display apparatus and a method for controlling the 3D display apparatus. The adjusting device is configured to adjust a position of a member to be moved in a display apparatus, the adjusting device including: a supporting portion which has a groove on a side of the supporting portion adjacent to the member to be moved; and a rotatable portion which is partly embedded in the groove of the supporting portion and is rotatable in the groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Assignee: BOE TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hong Wang, Xiaochen Niu, Jinye Zhu, Zhongxiao Li, Yaoqiu Jing
  • Patent number: 9011263
    Abstract: A portable, lightweight mechanical golf tee device includes a tee box, a golf ball reservoir that includes a container for a plurality of golf balls and a ball stop. The golf ball reservoir is connected to the tee box. The portable mechanical golf tee device includes a tee activation mechanism that is connected to the tee box and upon user actuation, the tee activation mechanism actuates a tee mechanism, the tee mechanism provides placement of the golf ball from the golf ball reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Inventors: Donald C. Brown, Jesse E. Durgin
  • Patent number: 8974312
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an automatic golf ball supply device, being an automatic golf ball supply device which automatically supplies golf balls to a position where the golf balls will be hit with a golf club by the user, which comprises: a frame on the upper part of which is formed a golf ball withdrawal hole; an ascending and descending mount which ascends and descends by means of a motor, and on the upper surface of which is provided a tee member where a golf ball rests, and which is provided so as to ascend and descend freely in the withdrawal hole direction following a guide provided in the frame; and a golf ball conveying loader which conveys golf balls towards the tee member of the ascending and descending mount as the outer circumferential surface rotates and makes contact with the golf balls inside a golf-ball-waiting chamber in such a way as to be able to push each golf ball and to rest the same on the tee member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Inventor: Wan Je Cho
  • Patent number: 8926442
    Abstract: The invention relates to a portable and ergonomic instrument for storing golf balls and tees and for automatically positioning a tee in the ground at a predetermined height and a ball in balance thereon, by means of a movement of one hand on the part of the player in the standing position. Said instrument consists primarily of a main body (10) serving as a storage unit (12) for balls (Bn), a multi-purpose shuttle (20) and a retaining clamp (P). After setting the desired height of the ball on the thumbwheel (50), the alternating movement of the shuttle (20) from abutment to abutment, using the knob (21), first upward, then downward and finally upward, enables the result to be achieved. Any golfer who has difficulty bending down or squatting, and those who do not wish to bend down or squat, may be interested in owning such an instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventor: GĂ©rard Dubois
  • Patent number: 8852012
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for providing storage at indoor golf driving ranges. In various embodiments, the disclosed systems and methods permit golfers to store their baggage in close proximity to the golfers while the golfers practice their swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventors: Brendan O'Grady, Sam S. Han
  • Publication number: 20140287847
    Abstract: A golf swing training apparatus, method and kit for allowing users to practice their golf swing are disclosed. Embodiments of the golf swing trainer include a collapsible and lightweight golf swing trainer that may be displayed on retail store shelves and transported in typical passenger vehicles without requiring separate delivery using delivery vehicles. Alternate embodiments include multiple components, such as elongated frame members, netting, a golf ball lifter, a golf ball track and a platform that may be assembled and disassembled by hand. Still other embodiments include a trainer that returns the golf balls to the user quickly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Inventor: Jeff Davis
  • Patent number: 8840482
    Abstract: A ball supply device where a ball is automatically supplied to a designated position is provided. The ball supply device includes a mat unit having an inclined surface and a hole, where a ball provided along the inclined surface is positioned; a tee member lifted up and down along an axial line of the hole in the mat unit and moving the ball positioned in the hole to a tee shot position at a spot that is upwardly spaced from a plane of the mat unit; a loading unit located on a plane lower than the mat unit and moving the ball loaded thereon to the mat unit; and a feeding member positioned between the loading unit and the mat unit and providing balls, which are provided from the loading unit one by one, to the inclined surface of the mat unit by performing a swing motion within a range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: RD-Tek Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Song Hwan Choi
  • Publication number: 20140162798
    Abstract: A housing type golf simulation apparatus and features the housing that the internal space is available having front, rear, upper and left/right side; monitor installation section which is provided backward in the rear side direction from the said front housing so that the monitor can be seated in the said front housing; golf simulation computer which is provided in the said internal space; and the monitor to be seated in the said monitor installation section. Thus, it is advantageous to implement various additional functions in the housing while installing, managing and moving the entire golf simulation apparatus in an integrated module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2012
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Inventor: Yong Hoon Kim
  • Publication number: 20140004966
    Abstract: A portable, lightweight mechanical golf tee device includes a tee box, a golf ball reservoir that includes a container for a plurality of golf balls and a ball stop. The golf ball reservoir is connected to the tee box. The portable mechanical golf tee device includes a tee activation mechanism that is connected to the tee box and upon user actuation, the tee activation mechanism actuates a tee mechanism, the tee mechanism provides placement of the golf ball from the golf ball reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2013
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventors: Donald C. Brown, Jesse E. Durgin
  • Patent number: 8485912
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a powerless automatic tee up machine, which repeats the transporting of the golf balls onto a golf tee through potential energy, a cam curve, a principle of balancer and a link system without using power, and which has a maximally simplified structure to significantly reduce manufacturing costs as compared to conventional machines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Inventor: Hyong Jun Kim
  • Publication number: 20130172092
    Abstract: A ball supply device where a ball is automatically supplied to a designated position is provided. The ball supply device includes a mat unit having an inclined surface and a hole, where a ball provided along the inclined surface is positioned; a tee member lifted up and down along an axial line of the hole in the mat unit and moving the ball positioned in the hole to a tee shot position at a spot that is upwardly spaced from a plane of the mat unit; a loading unit located on a plane lower than the mat unit and moving the ball loaded thereon to the mat unit; and a feeding member positioned between the loading unit and the mat unit and providing balls, which are provided from the loading unit one by one, to the inclined surface of the mat unit by performing a swing motion within a range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: RD-TEK CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Song Hwan Choi
  • Patent number: 8409023
    Abstract: A golf ball dispensing and teeing device is provided which allows a single golf ball to be metered from a supply tube and travel therefrom to rest within an elevated ball tee.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Inventor: Dave W. Hogan
  • Publication number: 20130065704
    Abstract: A golf swing training device (1) having a substantially circle or oval-shaped ring (2) that stands at an angle to the ground. A guide (5) is slidably attached to the ring. A golf club (8) may be attached to a bracket (34) that is rotatably attached to housing (9) located on the guide. As an individual swings the golf club around the ring, the housing slides to allow for radial displacement of the golf club. In addition, the bracket rotates within the housing to allow for wrist rotation. Motors (37, 38, 39, 40, 12, 16) and gears (15, 17), controlled by one or more microprocessors (22) control the movement of the various components of the golf swing training device, thereby controlling the position of the golf club as well as the position of the user's body as the guide travels around the ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventors: David Napolitano, Don Drum
  • Publication number: 20120295721
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an automatic golf ball supply device, being an automatic golf ball supply device which automatically supplies golf balls to a position where the golf balls will be hit with a golf club by the user, which comprises: a frame on the upper part of which is formed a golf ball withdrawal hole; an ascending and descending mount which ascends and descends by means of a motor, and on the upper surface of which is provided a tee member where a golf ball rests, and which is provided so as to ascend and descend freely in the withdrawal hole direction following a guide provided in the frame; and a golf ball conveying loader which conveys golf balls towards the tee member of the ascending and descending mount as the outer circumferential surface rotates and makes contact with the golf balls inside a golf-ball-waiting chamber in such a way as to be able to push each golf ball and to rest the same on the tee member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventor: Wan Je Cho
  • Patent number: 8210957
    Abstract: Disclosed is a golf swing training machine, which allows a golf beginner to comfortably strike a golf ball in a stable mental state without a burden from the golf ball, thus allowing the golf beginner to effectively master a swing posture in a short period of time. In the golf swing training machine, a tee having a golf ball laid thereon and a tee having no golf ball laid thereon are alternately located at a striking point, or one tee is provided at the striking point such that a golf ball is not laid on the tee during aiming and then is laid on the tee just before a point of the striking time, thereby allowing a trainee to aim at the tee having no golf ball during aiming and thus to strike the golf ball in a stable mental state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Inventor: Joong-Hoon Nam
  • Publication number: 20120135814
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a powerless automatic tee up machine, which repeats the transporting of the golf balls onto a golf tee through potential energy, a cam curve, a principle of balancer and a link system without using power, and which has a maximally simplified structure to significantly reduce manufacturing costs as compared to conventional machines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventor: Hyong Jun Kim
  • Publication number: 20110065521
    Abstract: A golf ball dispenser includes a golf ball storage container and associated placement means for reception of a golf ball from the storage container and automatic placement of the golf ball on an associated tee for striking by a golfer. The golf ball storage container comprises a removable golf ball magazine which is demountably engagable with the placement means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Inventors: Leslie Egan, Jonathan Mangan
  • Patent number: 7871332
    Abstract: An apparatus at a driving tee for golf balls or the like, comprising a raisable and lowerable ball support a so-called peg, on which a ball may be placed for driving thereof after lifting of the ball support with the ball to the desired level above the tee, the ball support being disposed on means for switching of the ball support from a low position for loading of the ball support with a ball to a higher position of said desired ball driving level, the ball support being disposed on the switching means via positioning means which are disposed to permit pivoting of the ball support in at least the driving direction, wherein the positioning means include a substantially U-shaped bracket between whose shanks the ball support is pivotal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Inventor: Jordan Knez
  • Patent number: 7775897
    Abstract: An automatic tee-up device including a golf ball reservoir, a platform with a groove for a golf ball to travel from the reservoir to a tee, and a ball ejector disposed to eject golf balls one at a time from the reservoir onto the groove. The tee is movable from below a level of the golf ball in the groove to above the level of the golf ball in the groove. After the golf ball is ejected by the ejector, the golf ball travels on the groove to the tee and is raised by the tee into a position suitable for striking with a golf club.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Inventor: Donald R Jones
  • Publication number: 20100087265
    Abstract: The ball collector has a form similar to a golf club head and is used for collecting golf balls and positioning them on the tee. The ball collector comprises a body having a concavity in its base leading to a pair of arms at one end. The pathway between the concavity and the arms includes a summit onto or over which the ball passes to hold the ball in the arms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Inventor: Eddy Louis Cyril Rolando
  • Patent number: 7556565
    Abstract: A golf ball carrying apparatus is used to carry golf balls to swing compartments at a single-floor or multi-floor driving range. The golf ball carrying apparatus of the present invention includes a chain, connected between a drive unit provided with a motor and a driven unit spaced apart from the drive unit, so that the chain is reversibly rotated, and a guide rail, provided around the chain and having a shape with reduced width from top to bottom. A plurality of ball supply ports and holes is formed in the guide rail in a longitudinal direction. A first detecting sensor is provided on an end of the guide rail. The carrying apparatus further includes a connection guide, provided in each of tee-up devices, with a second detecting sensor provided at a predetermined position, and a pushing device, provided at a position corresponding to each of the connection guides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Inventor: Si-Myung Kim
  • Publication number: 20080146367
    Abstract: A portable golf caddy for a golfer includes a pole adapted to be inserted into the ground that has various removable attachments or accessories adapted to enhance a golfer's comfort and convenience while on a golf course. The golf caddy optionally includes one or more or a combination of the following attachments; a telescopically extended suction cup adapted to retrieve and to retain a golf ball; a range scope support; a laser device useful for stroke alignment; a measuring device for measuring the distance from a ball to a hole; a golf handle holder; a tee setting device; a cigar holder; and a beverage holder. Additional accessories may be provided as attachments to the caddy such as an umbrella or a scorekeeper. The caddy is lightweight and may be easily carried from one location to another to assist a golfer while golfing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2006
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Inventor: Robert M. Cruz
  • Patent number: 7351156
    Abstract: A golf ball teeing device includes a base adapted to mount to a golf club grip end and a ball carrier on the base. The ball carrier is positionable between an operational position for carrying a golf ball and a stowage position wherein a golf club on which the golf ball teeing device is mounted may be used to make a golf shot. During use, a golfer positions the ball carrier in the operational position and places a golf ball thereon. Using the golf ball teeing device, the golfer places the golf ball on a golf tee, then disengages the ball carrier and positions it in the stowage position. A self-righting golf tee may be used with the golf ball teeing device so that the golfer is not required to bend down to the ground at any time during the teeing operation. The self-righting golf tee may be tossed on the ground and tamped as necessary (e.g., using the golf club) to place it in a stable golf ball-receiving position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: Panneri Machining, Inc.
    Inventors: Alfred J. Panneri, Ralph G. Stuart
  • Patent number: 7344446
    Abstract: The ball detection apparatus is for detecting when a golf ball is hit off a golf tee of an automatic golf ball teeing machine. The detection apparatus comprises a radar device for producing a first signal in response to detecting movement of a golf club towards the tee, a directional microphone for producing a second signal in response to detecting the sound of a golf club striking a golf ball and monitoring means for detecting a coincidence between the first and second signals. An automatic golf ball teeing machine including such ball detection apparatus is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Inventor: Martin Wyeth
  • Publication number: 20080064517
    Abstract: A self-righting golf ball tee. The tee may comprise plural golf ball supporting pedestals, for example, four pedestals that are evenly spaced from each other. The pedestals may extend from a central hub, such as at an angle of approximately 109.5 degrees between each pedestal. During use, a golfer tosses the tee onto the ground. The tee will orient itself with three of the pedestals contacting the ground and the remaining pedestal protruding vertically upwardly to receive a golf ball.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Applicant: Panneri Machining, Inc.
    Inventor: Ralph G. Stuart
  • Publication number: 20070178984
    Abstract: A golf ball carrying apparatus is used to carry golf balls to swing compartments at a single-floor or multi-floor driving range. The golf ball carrying apparatus of the present invention includes a chain, connected between a drive unit provided with a motor and a driven unit spaced apart from the drive unit, so that the chain is reversibly rotated, and a guide rail, provided around the chain and having a shape with reduced width from top to bottom. A plurality of ball supply ports and holes is formed in the guide rail in a longitudinal direction. A first detecting sensor is provided on an end of the guide rail. The carrying apparatus further includes a connection guide, provided in each of tee-up devices, with a second detecting sensor provided at a predetermined position, and a pushing device, provided at a position corresponding to each of the connection guides.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2007
    Publication date: August 2, 2007
    Inventor: Si-Myung KIM
  • Patent number: 7198573
    Abstract: The golf ball conveying apparatus is provided in a place such as an indoor driving range to collect a golf ball, struck by a golfer, and places the golf ball onto a golf tee again. The golf ball conveying apparatus prevents dimples of a golf ball from wearing during a process of conveying the golf ball and solves a problem in which a ball conveying pipe becomes clogged by a damaged golf ball supplied into the ball conveying pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Inventor: Si-Myung Kim
  • Patent number: 7189167
    Abstract: A game apparatus is able to drop the balls one by one on the ground and to pick-up the balls on the ground one by one. The game apparatus includes a ball guide to store a plurality of balls to be movable by their own weight, an upper support provided at an upper portion of the ball guide, a lower housing provided at a lower portion of the ball guide, a ball stopper mechanism provided in the lower housing to stop and release the movement of the ball in the vertical direction, a drive part to stop and release the movement of the ball by the ball stopper mechanism, and a lever to operate the drive part from outside. The lever includes a ball picking mechanism for picking balls on the ground when the game apparatus is turned upside-down and pressed on the ball on the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Inventor: Takeo Imahata
  • Patent number: 7186186
    Abstract: A ball drop mechanism for a game apparatus has a mechanism allowing to drop balls one by one on a desired location. The ball drop mechanism includes a housing that stores balls, a cylindrical ball passage connected to the housing, and a cogged stopper that is located in the housing near the ball passage. One side of the cogged stopper has a hollowed portion that matches a circumference of the ball passage. A golf ball dispenser is established by installing the ball drop mechanism for a game apparatus. The golf ball dispenser has a plurality of ball cylinders which install and guide a large number of golf balls and has a golf ball placer with a seesaw movement mechanism to place a ball accurately on the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Inventor: Takeo Imahata
  • Patent number: 7182696
    Abstract: A ball feeder comprises a funnel having a base, opposing side walls, a ball inlet end and a ball outlet end. The base is inclined to define a ramp extending downwards from the inlet end to the outlet end and the side walls diverge in width from the inlet end to the outlet end. The ball feeder also comprises a scoop for receiving a single transverse row of balls at the outlet end of the funnel and means for raising the scoop into an elevated position in which it defines a second ramp extending transversely of the first mentioned ramp and in which it can release the balls one at a time. The raising means may also raise and lower a tee.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Inventor: Martin Wyeth
  • Patent number: 7160196
    Abstract: A tray (10) for supplying coded golf balls (50) to the tee (41) of a golf driving range comprises a first zone (11) for receiving golf balls, one of which is selected to be played by moving it by means of a club over a barrier (14) to a second (12) where it passes under gravity through an outlet (30) past a code reader (41) to the tee (41). An indicator light (46) is provided to confirm that the code has been read. The barrier (14) may have a grooved side (15) to assist transfer of the golf ball from the first zone (11) to the second zone (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: World Golf Systems Limited
    Inventors: John S. Thirkettle, David V. Jolliffe
  • Publication number: 20040229705
    Abstract: An apparatus for automatically setting a golf ball on a tee includes an escapement mechanism to isolate a single golf ball from a plurality of golf balls, a hingedly connected chute to channel a golf ball from the escapement mechanism to the tee, and means to raise and lower the chute from alignment with the tee to a position where it will not interfere with the swing of a golfer standing adjacent to the tee. A motor drives a pulley and chain. A cable is pivotally attached to the chain and to a free end of the chute. Rotation of the motor translates into linear movement of the cable, raising or lowering the chute. A helical coil spring may be imposed between the cable and the chute. A tab extending from the chute operates the escapement mechanism so that when the chute is in the raised position, only a single ball drops onto the chute.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2004
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventor: J. Richard Hollrock
  • Publication number: 20030171156
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a golf training apparatus capable of realizing an inclined plane an inclination angle of which can be adjusted in an unpowered manner according to movement of the weight center of a user thereby allowing a golfer to have optimum golf training. The golf training apparatus can be easily installed indoor or outdoor where power is not supplied since it can adjust the angle of inclination without power. The upper plate can be rapidly inclined without any sway or noise. The golf training apparatus of the present invention also has advantages in that maintenance cost can be reduced in respect to power consumption, endurance is enhanced and maintenance is made easy. Moreover, since the golf training apparatus of the present invention may not use a power unit, the golf training apparatus has advantages in that the weight can be reduced and the cost can be saved compared to conventional powered golf training apparatuses, which may reduce economic burden of consumers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2002
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventor: Woo Hong Lee
  • Patent number: 6616541
    Abstract: A golf ball teeing device is disclosed. The device includes a housing having a ball storage compartment having an opening dimensioned to permit golf balls to pass there through. The housing has a ball selector which is adapted to permit only one golf ball to be moved out of the opening at one time. A placement arm is pivotally mounted to the housing adjacent the ball selector. The arm has a channel configured to permit golf balls to roll down the arm. The distal end of the arm has a projecting portion which is configured to remove the ball from the channel when the ball rolls past. The arm is pivotally movable in a substantially horizontal plane between a first position wherein the distal end is adjacent a placement point for the golf tee and a second position wherein the distal end is positioned away from the placement point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Inventor: Giuseppe Michelizza
  • Publication number: 20030139221
    Abstract: A golf ball teeing device is disclosed. The device includes a housing having a ball storage compartment having an opening dimensioned to permit golf balls to pass there through. The housing has a ball selector which is adapted to permit only one golf ball to be moved out of the opening at one time. A placement arm is pivotally mounted to the housing adjacent the ball selector. The arm has a channel configured to permit golf balls to roll down the arm. The distal end of the arm has a projecting portion which is configured to remove the ball from the channel when the ball rolls past. The arm is pivotally movable in a substantially horizontal plane between a first position wherein the distal end is adjacent a placement point for the golf tee and a second position wherein the distal end is positioned away from the placement point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Giuseppe Michelizza
  • Patent number: 6595863
    Abstract: A golf simulator has a flooring system comprising a tee area, a green area, a green-side area and a ball feed system adjacent the flooring system. From measurements taken when the ball is hit, the computer control system computes the next shot position of the ball after it is hit and the corresponding location on the flooring system. A ball feed system collects the ball into a ball feed chute and moves the ball toward a return gutter. When the ball contacts a gutter sensor, the sensor signals a gutter door to open, corresponding to a feed tube. The ball is sent down the return gutter and drops, at the position where the gutter door opened, into a feeding tube and a ball lifting mechanism positions a ball at the appropriate location on the flooring system. This process continues until a player finishes the hole. Accordingly, a player need not touch the golf ball, except when under penalty, more similar to an actual round of golf.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Par Action Golf, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen B. Chamberlain, Charles W. Playforth, John C. Pfeiffer, James R. Kaiser
  • Publication number: 20030040373
    Abstract: A golf simulator has a flooring system comprising a tee area, a green area, a green-side area and a ball feed system adjacent the flooring system. From measurements taken when the ball is hit, the computer control system computes the next shot position of the ball after it is hit and the corresponding location on the flooring system. A ball feed system collects the ball into a ball feed chute and moves the ball toward a return gutter. When the ball contacts a gutter sensor, the sensor signals a gutter door to open, corresponding to a feed tube. The ball is sent down the return gutter and drops, at the position where the gutter door opened, into a feeding tube and a ball lifting mechanism positions a ball at the appropriate location on the flooring system. This process continues until a player finishes the hole. Accordingly, a player need not touch the golf ball, except when under penalty, more similar to an actual round of golf.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventors: Stephen B. Chamberlain, Charles W. Playforth, John C. Pfeiffer, James R. Kaiser
  • Publication number: 20020183125
    Abstract: A portable machine for delivering golf balls one at a time onto a tee or a surface simulating a fairway. A bin holds a quantity of practice balls and has a turntable underlying it. An opening on the turntable provides a ball pocket which receives one ball at a time and carries the ball around a circular path to a position aligned above a chute. Each ball delivered by the chute is discharged onto a fairway area or into an inclined trough, depending on how the chute is oriented. At the bottom end of the trough, a tee is raised to tee each ball up at a high or low height, depending upon the setting of a selector switch. A platform which provides a surface on which the user stands is detachable to allow the machine to be carried and stored in two separate pieces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Bill Eugene Howard, James C. Hayden
  • Publication number: 20020128084
    Abstract: Disclosed is an inclination-adjustable golf training device capable of optionally changing the inclination of its platform, on which a player stands to practice his golf swing, in order to simulate the condition of a real golf course, thereby obtaining an enhanced training effect. The golf training device includes an upper plate assembly, to which a ball supply unit and a controller are internally mounted, the upper plate assembly including an upper plate, on which a player stands to practice his golf swing, a lower plate assembly adapted to support the upper plate while being spaced apart from the upper plate, a vertical reciprocating unit mounted on the lower plate assembly while including driving and driven parts operating to adjust the inclination of the upper plate with respect to the lower plate assembly in all radial directions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2002
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventors: Sang Chul Lee, Chae Hoon Chang
  • Publication number: 20020091007
    Abstract: An apparatus for automatically setting a golf ball on a tee includes an escapement mechanism to isolate a single golf ball from a plurality of golf balls, a hingedly connected chute to channel a golf ball from the escapement mechanism to the tee, and means to raise and lower the chute from alignment with the tee to a position where it will not interfere with the swing of a golfer standing adjacent to the tee. A motor drives a pulley and chain. A cable is pivotally attached to the chain and to a free end of the chute. Rotation of the motor translates into linear movement of the cable, raising or lowering the chute. A helical coil spring may be imposed between the cable and the chute. A tab extending from the chute operates the escapement mechanism so that when the chute is in the raised position, only a single ball drops onto the chute.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2002
    Publication date: July 11, 2002
    Inventor: J. Richard Hollrock
  • Publication number: 20020091006
    Abstract: A portable machine for delivering golf balls one at a time onto a tee or a surface simulating a fairway. A bin holds a quantity of practice balls and has a turntable underlying it. An opening on the turntable provides a ball pocket which receives one ball at a time and carries the ball around a circular path to a position aligned above a chute. Each ball delivered by the chute is discharged onto a fairway area or into an inclined trough, depending on how the chute is oriented. At the bottom end of the trough, a tee is raised to tee each ball up at a high or low height, depending upon the setting of a selector switch. A platform which provides a surface on which the user stands is detachable to allow the machine to be carried and stored in two separate pieces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2001
    Publication date: July 11, 2002
    Applicant: Harmsway, LLC
    Inventors: Bill Eugene Howard, James C. Hayden
  • Patent number: 6386607
    Abstract: Disclosed is a combination golf ball retrieving and dispensing apparatus which comprises a shag bag and two tubes. The first tube is a conventional golf ball retrieving tube which may be screwed into a collar at the base of the bag. Golf balls retrieved through the tube may be stored in the bag by inverting the retrieving tube. Stored golf balls may be dispensed by removing the retrieving tube and screwing into its place a dispensing tube on an extending collar which surrounds a hole at the bottom of the bag. The dispensing tube is L-shaped with one free end secured to the collar of the shag bag. Balls are dispensed through the bag and through the first leg (which is connected to the collar) and the second of the L-shaped legs. A selective dispenser is secured to the end of the second leg and comprises a pivotally mounted spring loaded bar having two prongs. The prongs extend through a slot in the wall of the second leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Dorson Sports, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric I. Deininger
  • Patent number: 6375580
    Abstract: An automatic golf ball dispensing device includes a base, motor, drive link, slide arm, pivot arm, control circuit, dispenser cover, and handle. The base preferably includes two pivot feet on a first end and an adjustable foot on a second end thereof. One end of a drive arm is connected to the shaft of the motor. The other end of the drive arm is pivotally attached to a first end of the drive link. A second end of the drive link is pivotally attached to a second end of the slide arm. The slide arm is slidably attached to a top of the base. A ball stop is formed on a first end of the slide arm and a notch is formed under the ball stop. A first end of the pivot arm is sized to fit under the notch such that the pivot arm is level relative to the top of the base. A ball support extends from a first end of the pivot arm. A bottom of the dispenser cover is attached to a top of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Inventors: Karl Schmidt, Ralph Marshall
  • Patent number: 6348008
    Abstract: A device for storing golf balls and dispensing them onto a bed of bristles that serves as a golf tee.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Inventor: August Bertoniere, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6199926
    Abstract: A dispenser and retriever for golf balls. The dispenser includes a leg, a foot, ball-dispensing apparatus, and ball-retrieving apparatus. The leg is hollow and holds the golf balls and is generally inclined relative to the ground so as to allow the golf balls to be biased downwardly therein. The foot is hollow and communicates with the leg and dispenses the golf balls held in the leg and is inclined relative to the leg to lie substantially flat on the ground so as to allow the golf balls to exit therefrom, onto the ground. The ball-dispensing apparatus is operatively connected to the foot and selectively dispenses the golf balls, one at a time, from the foot, by use of a golf club, and without use of a foot of a user and without the user having to bend down. The ball-retrieving apparatus is operatively connected to the leg and selectively picks up the golf balls already on the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Inventor: Louis Joesph Lemoine
  • Patent number: 6165082
    Abstract: An above-ground device that semi-automatically tees golf balls at practice areas such as driving ranges, without requiring the golfer to bend down and tee each golf ball by hand following each practice shot. The device comprises a U-shaped conduit which is embedded in the foam rubber backing of the playing surface mat typically found at a teeing area of a driving range in such a way that the openings in the conduit directly communicate with two holes drilled though the playing surface mat so as to create a continuous pathway between the two holes through the conduit. A semi-rigid rod is inserted into the conduit of such length that when one end is flush with the playing surface mat the other end protrudes above the playing surface mat approximately to the height of a standard golf tee. The ends of the rod are flared to substantially the shape of a standard golf tee.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Inventor: George W. Cox
  • Patent number: 6159105
    Abstract: A golf ball teeing apparatus including a housing having a generally rectangular configuration. The housing is defined by a top wall, a bottom wall, opposed long side walls, and opposed short end walls. The top wall has an opening therethrough exposing a hollow interior of the housing. The bottom wall has a peripheral flange secured thereto. The housing has an outlet through a corner formed by one of the opposed long side walls and an adjacent end wall. A tubular golf ball casing is disposed within the hollow interior of the housing for receiving a plurality of golf balls therein. The golf ball casing has a serpentine configuration defined by an open upper end disposed within the opening in the top wall of the housing. The golf ball casing has an open lower end disposed adjacent the outlet of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: Jack Rex Henry
  • Patent number: 5766085
    Abstract: An apparatus for the transport of spheroidal objects, for example golf balls, with the aid of an air current generated in a conduit system by a fan unit, from an infeed point (13) to a number of stations in the form of sites of use (teeing-off sites), storage points (magazines, automatic dispensers), and so on. An infeed tube (14) is provided for infeed of the spheroidal objects into the conduit system and discharges the objects at a shunting device (16) which engages the objects in sequence one after another and moves the objects along the infeed tube (14) in a direction towards a conduit in the conduit system from a receptacle point (13). A second shunting device (18) is provided between the receptacle point (13) and the shunting device (16) for urging the spheroidal objects in the opposite direction from the infeed tube (14) towards the receptacle point (13) in the event that the objects are disposed on one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: J. Knez AB
    Inventor: Jordan Knez
  • Patent number: 5743804
    Abstract: A hands-free golf ball teeing device (10) which allows a golfer to tee a golf ball, at a driving range, without having to bend over or to squat down to place the ball on the tee. The device (10) consists of a base (12) from where extends upward a structure (20). The structure (20) incorporates on one side a ramp channel (40) to which is pivotally attached a golf ball ramp (50) which includes a golf ball retaining bore (96) and a longitudinal golf ball channel (98). On the opposite side of the structure (20) is a lever plate (130). To operate the device (10) the lever plate (130) is depressed, with a golf club or the like, which then applies a force to the lower surface (62) of the golf ball ramp (50). This force is sufficient to overcome the magnetic force supplied by two permanent magnets (120,122) which are positioned to maintain the ramp (50) in a lowered position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Inventor: Gary E. Bacon
  • Patent number: 5683305
    Abstract: A device for teeing up a golf ball is formed of a continuous single rod bent into a V-shaped portion having two straight legs to form an inclined ramp, and a slightly cup-shaped circular portion at the upper end of the V-shape which acts as a ball-cup to hold the golf ball for teeing. The ball is rolled up the ramp by pushing it with a club and at the top falls into the ball-cup. This avoids any bending by the player. The ramp is wider at the bottom than the top and the rod is springy to deflect when hit by the club. Each ramp leg is bent at the lower end distal the ball-cup to extend horizontally for attachment to a ground plate that supports the rod device. The ball-cup is generally circular as seen from above but is bowed slightly as seen from the side to prevent the ball from rolling over the lip distal the ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1997
    Inventor: Per-Olov Andersson