Practice Device Attachable To Body Patents (Class 473/207)
  • Patent number: 11227507
    Abstract: Data regarding a movement being performed by a subject during an activity is obtained from wearable apparel, having one or more sensors, worn by the subject. Based at least in part on the data obtained by the wearable apparel, it is automatically detected that the movement has a potential of causing injury to the subject. Based on automatically detecting that the motion has the potential of causing injury to the subject, application of one or more physical stimuli is initiated to cause the subject to adjust the movement to prevent the injury.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2022
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Glenn Crawford, Adam Bishop, Christopher Florence, Rocky McMahan
  • Patent number: 10384115
    Abstract: Provided is a GUI display device that is able to explain the movement for holding the wrist cock and the movement for releasing the wrist cock during a golf swing visually in easily understandable manner. The GUI display device includes a display control part. The display control part simultaneously displays, on the GUI screen, a first graphic G1(i) representing a strength with which a wrist cock is held at an i-th timing during a swing motion of a golf club, and a second graphic G2(i) representing the strength with which the wrist cock is released at the i-th timing, where i=1, 2, . . . , N (N being an integer of 2 or more).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Assignee: SUMITOMO RUBBER INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Kousuke Okazaki, Masahiko Ueda, Yuto Nakamura, Satoru Hanamitsu
  • Patent number: 10194837
    Abstract: A portable, wearable multi-component measurement and analysis device can be utilized for collecting and analyzing bio-mechanical and human gait analysis data while performing any physical activity. This device may be constructed with one or more sensors that are placed on the various localities of human body to collect bio-mechanical data. This data may be transmitted over a network to a server, where it is analyzed, and feedback may be provided in real time on the bio-mechanical and gait parameters experienced by the user's body while performing any particular activity. The device further may allow specialists and experts located anywhere in the world to analyze this real time data and give feedback.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Vayu Technology Corp.
    Inventors: Karan Harish Kanchan, Prathamesh Mantri
  • Patent number: 9802095
    Abstract: A swing training apparatus includes an upper line from an upper assembly to a housing of a lower assembly. A first line extendable from the housing may be connected to a sporting implement. A second line extendable from the housing may be connected to the upper line. A first spool, second spool, lever, and pawl are located within the housing. The rotation of the first spool permits the extension of the first line. The pawl is biased to prevent the rotation of the first spool. Tension in the second line cause the rotation of the second spool, causing the lever to engage a portion on the pawl to disengage the pawl and permit extension of the first line. The first and second spools, lever, and pawl are configured to permit the extension of the first line at the proper “release” point during the swing of a sporting implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Inventors: Michael D Boyer, LeGrand K Malany
  • Patent number: 9795852
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there is provided various embodiments of a golf swing training device which is uniquely configured to maintain a desirable bent wrist condition through the entirety of the downswing (including golf ball impact) and follow-though or finish of the golf swing. More particularly, the training device constructed in accordance with the present invention allows the wearer/user to start the golf swing with the right wrist in its natural, generally flattened condition at address. Once the backswing of the golf stroke is initiated, the training device of the present invention allows the wearer/user to bend the right wrist back naturally, and at different amounts so as to represent the different amounts of right wrist bend a golfer may employ for shorter and longer strokes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Assignee: Kyron, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Scott Shew, Lance Gordon Hussey, Ravi Kumar Sawhney
  • Patent number: 9254430
    Abstract: A golf training aid is provided that teaches a golfer the proper motion of the lead knee during a backswing by providing the golfer with a positive feedback alert. A motion sensor detects a predetermined optimal position of the lead knee and a positive feedback alert is produced when the predetermined optimal position is achieve. The positive feedback alert may be an audible, visual, and/or tactile alert to notify a user that the predetermined optimal position is achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Inventor: Anthony LaSala
  • Patent number: 9028344
    Abstract: Included are systems and methods for providing data. At least one embodiment of a method includes providing, by a user device, a user interface configured to receive golf scoring data from a user, the user interface including a default score based on predetermined data related to past performance; receiving a first piece of golf scoring data from the user; determining, from the received first piece of golf scoring data, a second piece of golf scoring data; and storing the first piece of golf scoring data and the second piece of golf scoring data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: CHSZ, LLC
    Inventors: Josh Baker, Frank Craig Prichard
  • Patent number: 8944931
    Abstract: This invention relates to a training aid 10, 100 for a golfer. The training aid 10 mounts to a golfer's cap 24 or sunglasses and includes a battery powered collimated light source 12 in the form of an LED which is configured to emit collimated, visible light. The aid 10 further includes an electronic circuit which comprises a microcontroller 17 which is drivingly connected to the LED and an electronic orientation sensor 16 which is configured to sense the orientation of the LED. The circuit and LED are housed within a housing and a mounting formation is provided for mounting the training aid 10 to a user. In response to an orientation of the light source 12 sensed by the electronic sensor 16, the microcontroller 17 automatically interrupts emission of light when the training aid 10 is orientated outside of a predefined operative angular range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Inventors: Willem Andre Sternberg Nell, Pieter Rynners
  • Publication number: 20140309050
    Abstract: This invention relates to a training aid 10, 100 for a golfer. The training aid 10 mounts to a golfer's cap 24 or sunglasses and includes a battery powered collimated light source 12 in the form of an LED which is configured to emit collimated, visible light. The aid 10 further includes an electronic circuit which comprises a microcontroller 17 which is drivingly connected to the LED and an electronic orientation sensor 16 which is configured to sense the orientation of the LED. The circuit and LED are housed within a housing and a mounting formation is provided for mounting the training aid 10 to a user. In response to an orientation of the light source 12 sensed by the electronic sensor 16, the microcontroller 17 automatically interrupts emission of light when the training aid 10 is orientated outside of a predefined operative angular range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2013
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventors: Willem Andre Sternberg Nell, Pieter Rynners
  • Publication number: 20140274435
    Abstract: A sports swing training apparatus comprising, a clip assembly for attaching the sports swing training apparatus to an article of clothing of a user hingedly connected to a generally square shaped paddle arm by a rod to allow the paddle arm to rotate about the rod in a forward and backwards direction and a means for positioning the paddle arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Michael Licata, Gary Roark
  • Patent number: 8821305
    Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods are provided for measuring and analyzing movements of a body and for communicating information related to such body movements over a network. In certain embodiments, a system gathers biometric and biomechanical data relating to positions, orientations, and movements of various body parts of a user performed during sports activities, physical rehabilitation, or military or law enforcement activities. The biometric and biomechanical data can be communicated to a local and/or remote interface, which uses digital performance assessment tools to provide a performance evaluation to the user. The performance evaluation may include a graphical representation (e.g., a video), statistical information, and/or a comparison to another user and/or instructor. In some embodiments, the biometric and biomechanical data is communicated wirelessly to one or more devices including a processor, display, and/or data storage medium for further analysis, archiving, and data mining.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Applied Technology Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Lee Norman Cusey, Jay Allan Shears, Harold Dan Stirling
  • Patent number: 8801531
    Abstract: This invention relates to a training aid (strategic Golf Grip and Swing Repeater Training Aid) to assist the golfer in performing the proper golf swing technique for the effective golf swing. This training aid will be placed on the leading wrist of the golfer to develop the proper swing technique and to create muscle memory and to allow for repeated practice for game improvement and consistency. It includes a cover with straps to wrap around the hand of the user, and incorporates a back hand plate to hold the hand and wrist in alignment and place during a golf swing. It may also incorporate a wrist plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Inventors: Pete Buchanan, Charles Rowdy Jones
  • Publication number: 20140141900
    Abstract: An infrared method and apparatus for the kinematic analysis of a golfer is disclosed. The method includes selectively positioning a plurality of infrared markers on a golfer, and optionally on a golf club. Images of the golfer may be acquired before, during, and after he/she swings the golf club. The images may be analyzed to determine the kinematic characteristics of the movement of the golfer's body parts. A kinematic analysis of the golfer's body parts may then be correlated with a kinematic analysis of the golf club. The method and apparatus disclosed herein provide the advantage of allowing a golfer's movement to be correlated with a kinematic analysis of their golf swing while minimizing the physical restrictions on the golfer's movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2014
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: Acushnet Company
    Inventor: Gregory Alan Rose
  • Publication number: 20140135139
    Abstract: A golf swing analysis device includes a joint force calculation section and a torque extraction section. The joint force calculation section generates a double pendulum model that includes a first link that corresponds to an upper part of a body of a golfer, a second link that corresponds to a golf club, and a joint that links the first link and the second link, and calculates a joint force applied to the joint along with a swing motion using an acceleration measured by an inertial sensor attached to the golf club. The torque extraction section extracts a torque that causes the second link to make a rotational motion around a first axis from the joint force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2013
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Inventors: Kazuhiro SHIBUYA, Ken OTA
  • Patent number: 8708834
    Abstract: The golf posture and swing training harness of the present invention allows for convenience in set up, usage, and portability and may be worn by a user during golf training or playing. The harness comprises a body, two shoulder straps attached to the body, at least a waist strap either fixedly or removably attached to the body, and a shaft; wherein the shaft is removably inserted within a channel that extends the length of the body. When the user wears the harness, the shaft extends above and below the channel and the shaft contacts a back of the user's head, the user's scapular or upper back area, and the user's sacrum or lower back area, and these three points of contact of the shaft with the user's body enable the user to learn and achieve a proper golf posture and swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Inventor: Elizabeth Domangue
  • Patent number: 8690699
    Abstract: A visual aid device to provide a reference line for a golfer. The device has an elongated linear member held by opposing clips adapted for securement to the bill of a golf cap. The elongated member may be a stretchable elastic member or a rigid member to provide a reference line for a putter or wedge, for example, as the golfer addresses and strikes the golf ball. Spaced markings may further be utilized to provide additional visual aids to a golfer and advertising or logos may be applied to the clip members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Inventor: Terrance B. Enstad
  • Patent number: 8636605
    Abstract: A infrared method and apparatus for the kinematic analysis of a golfer is disclosed. The method includes selectively positioning a plurality of infrared markers on a golfer, and optionally on a golf club. Images of the golfer may be acquired before, during, and after he/she swings the golf club. The images may be analyzed to determine the kinematic characteristics of the movement of the golfer's body parts. A kinematic analysis of the golfer's body parts may then be correlated with a kinematic analysis of the golf club. The method and apparatus disclosed herein provide the advantage of allowing a golfer's movement to be correlated with a kinematic analysis of their golf swing while minimizing the physical restrictions on the golfer's movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Acushnet Company
    Inventor: Gregory Alan Rose
  • Patent number: 8616989
    Abstract: A system and method for analyzing and improving the performance of a body motion of an animal or human subject requires instrumenting a subject with inertial sensors, monitoring a body motion of interest, converting sensor data into motion data and animation, comparing the motion data with existing data for motion related performance parameters, providing a real-time, information rich, animation and data display of the results in color coded displays; and based on the results prescribing a training regime with exercises selected from a library of standardized exercises using standardized tools and training aids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: K-Motion Interactive, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael D Bentley
  • Patent number: 8500569
    Abstract: A training device properly develops a sports equipment swing, particularly for golf equipment, to counter an overpowered back-swing that results in an uncontrolled out-of-plane downswing. The device may comprise a strap having one end secured to a latch plate, and the other end securable to a latch that releasably receives a portion of the latch plate. At least one bungee cord may have one end attached to the strap at a position relative to the latch, being approximately 4-12 inches displaced therefrom. The other bungee cord end may have a cinching device located thereon to adjustably secure the bungee cord therein to engage a golf club shaft or shaft of a sports racquet, bat or stick. The bungee cord may comprise first and second cord portions being joined together, where the first cord portion has a low elastic modulus, and the second cord portion a high elastic modulus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Inventor: Alexandrea Moore
  • Patent number: 8453263
    Abstract: A shirt for improving a swinging motion of a user wearing the shirt includes front and rear panels each having corresponding top, bottom and generally opposing side edges, wherein the front and rear panels are adjoined to each other by the top and side edges, defining an interior space of the shirt. The front and rear panels include sleeve cutouts formed on each side edge adjacent the top edge, and a neck cutout formed on the top edges of the front and rear panels. At least one tubular sleeve is permanently joined to the front and rear panels of at least one of the sleeve cutouts, the tubular sleeve defining an inside area, the inside area being fluidly connected to the interior space of the shirt. A member is substantially adjacent to the sleeve cutout and the side edges of both the front and rear panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventor: A. Alex Wortman
  • Publication number: 20120088595
    Abstract: A training strap for improving a golfer's golf stroke is provided. The training strap includes a shoulder strap that attaches around the lead shoulder of the golfer with the opposite end attaching around the golfer's thumb on the same lead side of the body. Preferably, the training strap includes a strap length adjuster allowing the training strap to be fitted to the proper length. The golfer practices the stroke with the criterion being to keep the training strap taut. If the training strap stays taut, the user will develop a very fundamentally sound, repeatable stroke. When this is done the golfer is successfully utilizing the radius from the lead shoulder to hands to bottom out at the correct spot, thereby creating a good chipping, pitching or putting stroke.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Inventor: Bruce McNee
  • Publication number: 20110250979
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for a golf swing aid include a knee connector for connecting to a person's knee, a golf club connector for connecting to a golf club's grip that is gripped by the person, and a resilient connector for connecting the knee connector and the golf club connector. In an illustrative example, the resilient connector may be distendable to stretch under tension from an unstretched length to a stretched length to provide a force that opposes separation of the golf club connector and the knee connector beyond a predetermined distance based on the unstretched length of the resilient connector. In some examples, the golf swing training aid may provide a feel-based aid using feedback forces that may be a function of separation between the knee connector and the golf club connector during a dynamic movement of a swing to aid learning an improved golf swing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2010
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Inventor: Casey Dean
  • Patent number: 7980958
    Abstract: A golf work station having a base module with telescoping knee guides and adjustable target knee posts. A rear attachment module having a posture post is removably attached to the base module rear, said posture post being longitudinally extensible and angularly adjustable. A swing attachment module having an adjustable swing plane ring is pivotally and removably attached to the base module and rear attachment modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Inventor: David D. Ford
  • Publication number: 20110165955
    Abstract: A training device properly develops a sports equipment swing, particularly for golf equipment, to counter an overpowered back-swing that results in an uncontrolled out-of-plane downswing. The device may comprise a strap having one end secured to a latch plate, and the other end securable to a latch that releasably receives a portion of the latch plate. At least one bungee cord may have one end attached to the strap at a position relative to the latch, being approximately 4-12 inches displaced therefrom. The other bungee cord end may have a cinching device located thereon to adjustably secure the bungee cord therein to engage a golf club shaft or shaft of a sports racquet, bat or stick. The bungee cord may comprise first and second cord portions being joined together, where the first cord portion has a low elastic modulus, and the second cord portion a high elastic modulus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Inventor: Alexandrea Moore
  • Patent number: 7914388
    Abstract: A golf swing training apparatus consisting of positioning, indicating and guidance means cooperable with a golf club for learning, practicing and performing essential components of a swing method based on a concept of a lower swing phase related predominantly to a vertical virtual axis around which the body rotates, an upper swing phase related predominantly to a horizontal virtual axis tied to the vertical virtual axis and around which the arms swing and a “wrist cocking plane” maintained in a fixed relationship to the forearms, said essential components being: appropriate gripping formation; configuration of the forearms wrists hands and club when the wrists are fully cocked within the “wrist cocking plane”, appropriate relationships of arms, wrists, hands and club to the lower body in the lower swing phase; and relationship of the club and ‘wrist cocking plane” to the shoulders at the end of the backswing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: The Cox Family Trust
    Inventor: Robert William Cox
  • Patent number: 7896756
    Abstract: A golf swing training apparatus allows a user to learn a stable swing motion by acquiring a correct swing posture in performing a swing motion and to train turning motion of the user's shoulder and a rotating motion of the user's waist in a natural manner. The golf swing training apparatus includes: a body, which is arranged between both arms when a user takes an address posture, and has a reverse trapezoid-shape corresponding to a shape formed by the arms. The golf swing training apparatus controls changes in shapes of both arms, such as the interval between the arms becomes widened, bending of elbows, etc. when a golfer performs a swing motion in a swing training so as to guide his/her shoulder and waist to be smoothly turned. As a result, the golfer can learn a stable swing motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Inventor: Young Sik Choi
  • Patent number: 7874941
    Abstract: An alignment device for helping a user perform a golf swing comprising a clamp having a first end, a middle portion, and a second end; a pair of pinchers for gripping one's shoulders disposed on the first end of the clamp, the pair of pinchers can move between an open position and a closed position, the pinchers are biased in the closed position caused by a spring disposed in the middle portion of the clamp; and an extension component pivotally attached to the second end of the clamp and extending outwardly from the clamp. The extension component may resemble a golf ball and a golf tee.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Inventor: John R. Boytos
  • Publication number: 20110014991
    Abstract: According to one aspect of the present invention, a method of improving a participant's ability to move an object toward a desired target through athletic movement is provided. The method comprises establishing a point of focus that is positioned outward from a participant's body. The method further comprises instructing the participant to continuously move the point of focus through one or more series of bodily movements within the field of vision of the participant. By shifting his or her emphasis on continuously moving the point of focus, the participant is able to improve focus and concentration, and eliminate the stress and anxiety associated with executing an athletic movement. The method also naturally triggers correct body mechanics, including the proper sequential release of the participant's joints.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2010
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Inventor: Taly Williams
  • Patent number: 7811185
    Abstract: A method of training in swinging and hitting a baseball or softball in which a mechanical training aid is provided and attached to a batter's trailing back forearm and trailing back calf with a stretchable band attached between the back forearm and back calf. The band is stretched as a batter swings with proper extension and rotation of his body. The stretched band may further cause a visual, audible, or tactilely perceived indicator to the batter or observer that a batter has properly extended during a swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Launch Pad 39A, LLC
    Inventor: Paul Reynolds
  • Patent number: 7798910
    Abstract: A golf swing training aid includes a shaft having two sliding elements magnetically attached to fixed positions on the shaft. The sliding elements slide along the shaft from initially coupled positions to impact positions during a backswing and downswing movement simulating a golf swing for providing distinctive sounds at selected impact positions along the shaft to aid in setting the shaft when executing the backswing and lagging of the shaft during the downswing. Grip protrusions are biased against webs of the fingers for enhancing power generated during the swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Swing King, LLC
    Inventors: David Leadbetter, F. Blaik Shew
  • Publication number: 20100222151
    Abstract: An apparatus for maintaining an angular position of a leg having a knee, the apparatus including a rigid frame having oppositely disposed first and second side walls and an integral connecting member therebetween, each of the first and second side walls includes a plurality of through holes, a substantially rigid support member releasably secured to one of the plurality of through holes of the first side wall and one of the plurality of through holes of the second side wall, the support member positioned behind knee, and first and second securing straps adapted to be releasably secured about the leg above and below the knee, respectively, wherein modifying a position of the substantially rigid support member relative to the first and second side walls modifies the angular position of the leg.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventor: Thomas MCNAMARA
  • Publication number: 20100216602
    Abstract: This trunk rotation device uses dynamic movement of one's body such as, shoulder, hip, knee, back, thigh, and abdominal musculature. The device provides a method for exercising the spinal column and the muscles of the torso, including those in the abdominal lumbar and thoracic regions involving rotational torque. In a preferred embodiment, the device is a golf exercise and flexibility apparatus. The golf exercise apparatus provides resistance to a golfer during a golf swing to strengthen and condition the muscles of the axial skeleton of the golfer in a functional posture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventors: Vijay K. Goel, Danny M. Pincivero, David Dick, John Jaegly, F. Alan Schultheis, Kathleen Herndon
  • Patent number: 7780545
    Abstract: The system monitors a user's key physical movements when performing a particular activity, such as a golf swing, and signals visually and/or aurally when a single (or several) error(s) is/are committed, for the purpose of encouraging faster learning of fundamentally sound physical skills. Mental conditioning is achieved when the effects of repeatedly listening to the specially constructed and authored audio conditioning programs during practice sessions and games are combined with the above described physical monitoring effects of the system. Better physical execution of a selected technique or skill results, and the user experiences the benefits of mental conditioning on his/her playing performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: MCS Golf Company, LLC.
    Inventors: Fred W. Smith, Roland H. Wills, Geoffrey N. Cornish
  • Patent number: 7775898
    Abstract: A golf swing training system that straps to the rear or trailing arm of the golfer and guides movement of that arm to correctly delay release of the golf club on the downswing until the trailing arm bicep is approximately pointing toward the ground. A servo motor locks the trailing arm at the elbow from extension near the top of the backswing as the trailing arm reaches its fully bent position preventing premature club release during the initial downswing, and releases the elbow when the upper arm reaches a near vertical position on the downswing. The entire system is controlled by an on-board microprocessor encoded by input angle signals of the trailing arm bending movement adapted to the swing cycle of the individual golfer under study.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Inventor: Dillis V. Allen
  • Patent number: 7762904
    Abstract: A golf swing training device comprising a base adapted for support by the ground and a vertical pole connected to and extending vertically from the base to accommodate the height of a golfer. A reminder seat is connected to the vertical pole to accommodate the golfer's posterior resting against the seat during a golf swing and facing away from the vertical pole. An elastic band is secured to the vertical pole at a distance above the reminder seat forming a loop around the golfer's chest. The elastic band enables the golfer's abdominal and core muscles to keep flexion throughout the golf swing, thereby allowing a free swinging motion of the golfer while limiting lateral and vertical movement of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Inventors: Matthew T. McManus, Christopher H. Pfaltzgraff
  • Patent number: 7758436
    Abstract: A swinging and hitting training aid for batters and golfers having first, second and third attachment members that attach to a person's arm, calf, and foot respectively. The training aid includes an stretchable band of resistance tubing that provides a visible indicator between the first and second attachment members. The visible indicator includes a pair of abutting sleeves that form a separable cover about the resistance tubing. The visible indicator is connected to the first attachment member by a first tether, and the second attachment member is connected to the third attachment member by a second tether. The tethers may be fixed or variable length and may include resistance tubing of greater resistance than the stretchable band of the visible indicator portion of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Launch Pad 39A, LLC
    Inventor: Paul Reynolds
  • Publication number: 20100160059
    Abstract: The present invention provides a sport training device for improving technique by providing resistance within the context of a sporting movement. The invention comprises an arcuate frame worn on the thigh of a user, which is secure to the user's thigh with an adjustable belt or cuff coupled to the frame. A lever coupled to the frame extends away from the frame in front of the user's body and an elastic cord is anchored to the lever. An attachment means is coupled to the other end of the elastic cord to allow the user's arms to extend the cord, thereby providing resistance to the user's movement. The attachment means attaches the cord to a wrist strap or glove worn by the user or to the handle of a sport implement such as a golf club.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventor: Stephen Burgess
  • Patent number: 7704157
    Abstract: A golf swing-measuring system including a computer (16) for capturing a colored moving image obtained by photographing a golfer (11) who swings by gripping a golf club (13). The computer (16) selects and extracts one or more images each showing a swing posture as check-point images such as an address image, a take-back shaft 8 o'clock image, a take-back shaft 9 o'clock image, a take-back unskillful arm horizontal image, a top image, a downswing unskillful arm horizontal image, a downswing shaft 9 o'clock image, an impact image, a follow-through shaft 3 o'clock image, and a finish image and extracts from a large number of still images constituting said color moving image. Thereafter the computer (16) obtains coordinates of positions of attention-focused points that operate in said check-point images when said golfer swings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: SRI Sports Limited
    Inventors: Yoshiaki Shirai, Nobutaka Shimada, Masahiko Ueda, Masahide Onuki
  • Patent number: 7662048
    Abstract: The present invention is a golf swing training device which guides the golfer's leading leg in an arc around the trailing heel, maintaining a minimum distance between the leading leg and trailing heel. This device guides the golfer's leg action in a 3-dimensional manner to produce a coiling motion on the backswing, which maintains a consistent spine angle as recommended by modern golf instructors. This device comprises a leg brace with flexible cuff which attaches to a golfer's leading leg above the knee, an adjustable strut, and a heel base for the golfer's trailing foot which tilts slightly in the leading direction. For left-handed golfers, this device substitutes a heel base with opposite swivel placement and tilt. This invention resets automatically to the correct position during practice sessions. The benefit for a golfer of using this invention is increased consistency, accuracy, and power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Inventors: Jason Armas Libby, William C. Libby
  • Patent number: 7654912
    Abstract: A golfing stance training apparatus and method includes a spherical housing has a diameter between 5 inches and 9 inches. The housing is comprised of an elastic material and is inflated. The housing is positioned between a person's legs so that the housing is positioned adjacent to knees of the legs and the legs support the housing over a ground surface. A golf swing is made a golf swing by the person while retaining the housing between and supported by the legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Inventor: James C. Hooten
  • Publication number: 20090291770
    Abstract: An aligning apparatus of a golf destination line is provided. The aligning apparatus aligns a putter face of a golf putter with a destination line connecting a golf ball and a destination. A rotation angle between the destination line and the putter face and an acceptance angle are set in a variance setting unit, and the acceptance angle is an acceptable error range of the rotation angle. A 3-axis magnetic resistance sensor measures a magnetic field strength applied to the golf putter, and a 3-axis accelerometer measures an acceleration applied to the golf putter. A processor calculates a tilt angle of the 3-axis magnetic resistance sensor from the measured acceleration, and compensates the measured magnetic field strength with the tilt angle to calculate an azimuth of the putter face of the golf putter. An output unit outputs a reporting signal when a difference between the azimuth and an aligning azimuth determined by the rotation angle is within a range of the acceptance angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2006
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Inventor: In-Za You
  • Publication number: 20090258719
    Abstract: A golfer training device includes a sensor, a feedback output device configured to output a feedback and a processor in communication with the sensor and the feedback output device. The processor is configured to instruct the feedback output device to output the feedback when the sensor is in close proximity to either an elbow or chin of a golfer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventor: A. Alex Wortman
  • Publication number: 20090227384
    Abstract: A swinging and hitting training aid for batters and golfers having first, second and third attachment members that attach to a person's arm, calf, and foot respectively. The training aid includes an stretchable band of resistance tubing that provides a visible indicator between the first and second attachment members. The visible indicator includes a pair of abutting sleeves that form a separable cover about the resistance tubing. The visible indicator is connected to the first attachment member by a first tether, and the second attachment member is connected to the third attachment member by a second tether. The tethers may be fixed or variable length and may include resistance tubing of greater resistance than the stretchable band of the visible indicator portion of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Applicant: LAUNCH PAD 39A, LLC
    Inventor: Paul Reynolds
  • Publication number: 20090181788
    Abstract: A golf exercise device is disclosed that can be used for stretching the shoulder and back muscles. The device expands to a length that allows the user to place the device behind the user's head and grasp each end with the user's hands. The device collapses to a size small enough to easily fit into a golf bag. The center portion of the device is padded for comfort while the user is stretching. Clips can also be included to secure the device to the external portion of the golf bag. The device can hold golf balls in one end, and a net for retrieving golf balls from water hazards in the other. Zippered pockets can be attached to the device to hold personal items such as mobile phones, PDA's, sunglasses, car keys, or the like. Net-type bags with drawstring closures can also be included with the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventors: Maureen O'Connor, Alfred O'Connor
  • Patent number: 7547256
    Abstract: An apparatus for improving a golf swing that comprises a telescopic arm link shaft connected between a golfer's upper arm and the grip of a golf club held in the golfer's hands. The arcuate grip attachment member of the apparatus is easily held against the golf club grip by the golfer's hands. The shaft-to-grip connection pivots, while the shaft-to-arm-attachment-member connection provides swiveling movement. The arm attachment member can also be adjusted around the golfer's upper arm to provide a comfortable but non-slip connection. A stop on telescopic arm link shaft further allows the golfer to adjust the maximum amount of angle change desired during a golf swing. Thus, angle and rotational changes for the golfer's lower arm are permitted, while absolute alignment of the golfer's upper and lower arms to the golf club is maintained throughout the golf swing. Applications can include any sports implement used with a swinging motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Inventor: Jerry Ott Petrie
  • Publication number: 20090111598
    Abstract: Systems and methods for improving a golf swing are described. Deviated motions are detected and, in response to the deviated motion, feedback, such as, for example, an electric shock, is provided to the source of the deviated motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventors: Scott O'Brien, Afshin Fouladpour
  • Publication number: 20090105005
    Abstract: The present invention is a golf swing training device which guides the golfer's leading leg in an arc around the trailing heel, maintaining a minimum distance between the leading leg and trailing heel. This device guides the golfer's leg action in a 3-dimensional manner to produce a coiling motion on the backswing, which maintains a consistent spine angle as recommended by modern golf instructors. This device comprises a leg brace with flexible cuff which attaches to a golfer's leading leg above the knee, an adjustable strut, and a heel base for the golfer's trailing foot which tilts slightly in the leading direction. For left-handed golfers, this device substitutes a heel base with opposite swivel placement and tilt. This invention resets automatically to the correct position during practice sessions. The benefit for a golfer of using this invention is increased consistency, accuracy, and power.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventors: Jason Armas LIBBY, William C. LIBBY
  • Patent number: 7399232
    Abstract: A device for training the muscles used during a golf club swinging motion. The device includes a connector coupled to the head of the golf club and a resilient and extensible tether having a proximal end for connection to the connector and a distal end for connection to a trainee's body. The device is used by causing the trainee to engage in a golf swing motion so that the tether provides resistance to the trainee's muscles in the sequence used to perform the swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Inventors: John P. Frappier, Mark W. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20080153615
    Abstract: A golf swing training aid that is effective in aiding a golfer in acquiring a proper golf swing. The training apparatus includes a simple, non-encumbering support that can be removably connected to the upper body portion of the trainee. The support consists of an elongated, upper body-encircling strap and first and second spaced-apart shoulder strap assemblies that are connected to the upper body-encircling strap. An important feature of the training aid involves providing first and second specially designed, yieldably deformable underarm pads that are connected to the upper body-encircling strap by elongated connectors and are conveniently movable by the trainee from a hanging position when not in use to an underarm position training position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Inventors: Matt Baird, John A. Haggar
  • Patent number: 7306525
    Abstract: A golf putting practice device to be used as being attached to a part of a body of a golfer is provided. The golf putting practice device includes: a laser indicator that irradiates a laser beam; an arm band that detachably attaches the laser indicator to an arm of the golfer, a free platform that connects the laser indicator to the arm band and adjusts an angle of the laser indicator; and a sliding attachment/detachment device used for attachment and detachment of the laser indicator and used together with an attachment member being provided at an end of the free platform and being configured so as to be pushed into and pulled out of the sliding attachment/detachment device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignees: Azden Corporation
    Inventor: Eju Sawada