With Lighting (e.g., Laser, Etc.) Means Attachable To Or Integral With Implement Patents (Class 473/220)
  • Publication number: 20090149267
    Abstract: A laser aligning device is mounted on the flat side of a putter grip or other cylindrically asymmetric surface of a club grip and emits a fan shaped light sheet. The light sheet is perpendicular to the flat side of the putter grip. The light sheet projects a visible laser line on a plane such as the ground when the head is on the same plane. The alignment of the grip relative to the putter head's face can be inspected by visually inspecting the orientation of the projected line on the plane relative to the head's face. The grip can be adjusted and fixed so that it is properly oriented to the face.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2007
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Inventors: Lanny L. Johnson, Benny Chan, Suganda Jutamulia, Chih Yen Liu
  • Publication number: 20090143157
    Abstract: A golf alignment device includes an emitter assembly having an emitter portion for emitting radiant energy and at least one lens portion for projecting the radiant energy onto a surface with a predetermined pattern. The predetermined pattern includes an illuminated golf ball alignment mark, an illuminated first foot alignment mark and an illuminated second foot alignment mark for indicating placement of the golfer's feet with respect to the golf ball. A fourth alignment mark intersects the golf ball and is in alignment with a distant target. Different lens portions may be provided with different projection patterns for use with different golf clubs and/or golfer's of different heights.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicant: OPTI SENSOR SYSTEMS, LLC
    Inventors: Herbert G. Ross, Jr., Alvin R. Wirthlin
  • Publication number: 20090137332
    Abstract: A golfing aid 11 having two levelling sensors 32, 33 mounted on a D shaped sensor body 31 and a mounting means having three adjustable connectors 41, 51, 61 for adjusting the orientation of the D shaped sensor body 31 and an indication output in the form of spirit level bubbles 32, 33 for providing an indication of the sensed level orientation. A system of interactive adjustable connectors linked together to provide such variability that allows connection to any one of left and right handed clubs with different shaft diameters, different angle of putter shaft to putter head and different length shafts and different length putter heads to allow for substantially aligned overlying of the D shaped sensor body 31 over the putter head 23 while substantially aligning the golfing aid front face 34 correctly with the putter head front face 24.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2006
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Applicant: INDEVCOM PTY LTD
    Inventor: Marino Sussich
  • Patent number: 7537525
    Abstract: A golf training device for aiding a golfer in perfecting their grip on a golf club and their swing. The golf training device includes an elongated member made from a flexible plastic material and that is designed to frictionally engage the handle portion of the golf club. The device includes a gripping region with first and second positioning aids thereon for correct placement of the golfer's thumbs. The device further includes a pair of lasers that are mounted in a rest area that integrally formed with the gripping region. The lasers are mounted so as to emit a pair of divergent laser beams outwardly away from the lowermost end of the device and on either side of the golf club head. The lasers are used to correctly align the device on the golf club shaft and as an aid for the golfer to check his grip on the club and the position he assumes for addressing a golf ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: Brunton Innovations Inc.
    Inventor: Qian Wang
  • 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: 20090105004
    Abstract: A device for a golf club for instructing club face orientation for a selected swing speed including a body with a selected thickness and such that a substantially pointed forward end thereof intersects a midpoint of the club contact face and in a perpendicularly extending direction relative to a coplanar axis extending across the club contact face. An adhesive tacky material applied to an underside surface of the body engaging the body to a top surface of the club head. A processor communicates with an inertially sensitive cam shaped member rotatably mounted within a location of the body. A swing speed adjustment knob is in operative communication with the body and in contact with the inertially sensitive element via an adjustment spring. An audio-generating transistor and a plurality of LED elements cooperate with the processor for instructing a correct planar orientation of a contacting face of the club head relative to the golf ball.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2007
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventor: DANIEL CHERESKO
  • Publication number: 20090082122
    Abstract: A swing training apparatus is used with a golf club or other sporting club. The golf club has a light projector that sweeps a moving light beam along a path parallel to the face of the club. A light beam receiver provides two spaced apart linear rows of light detectors which are able to receive the light beam. An electrical circuit includes the detectors, a source of electrical power, a microprocessor, and an audio or visual alert circuit. With the receiver positioned so that the detectors are directed along a desired ball trajectory, the light beam sweeps across the detectors when the golf ball is driven, the information of club head velocity and face misalignment are then able to be calculated and the golfer alerted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2007
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Inventor: Norman D. Kellogg
  • Patent number: 7499828
    Abstract: A system for determining the relative displacement of a rigid object is described herein. In one embodiment, the system includes three data sources positioned on an object. The data sources are configured to transmit data relating to positional displacement of the object. Each data source has predefined movement parameters based on the position of each data source on the object. In one embodiment, the system further includes a receiver unit configured to display positional information relating to the object based on the data received from each data source. The positional information represents a single valid solution set generated in part by eliminating positional movements that exceed the predefined movement parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Inventors: Mario Barton, Marius Filmalter, Eric Cramer, Dave Fugelso, David Cremer, Kyle Langenwalter, Brian Murphy, Richard Theriault, Evan McGee
  • Patent number: 7481713
    Abstract: A golf club head comprises an aiming device defined by one or more openings disposed above a light emitting member. The openings may have a variety of shapes. The golf club head is configured to selectively retain or release the light emitting member, allowing the golfer to change out the light emitting member as desired for particular lighting conditions. The light emitting member may be in a variety of colors, including red, green, yellow, pink, orange, and blue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Inventor: Kyle Beckman
  • Publication number: 20090017929
    Abstract: An improved static alignment and an improved dynamic alignment are combined in a laser beam method and system that provides instantaneous and continuous information feedback to a golfer to allow the real time correction of defects arising from a golfer's stance, head movement, body movement, golf club alignment, and golf club swing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2007
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventor: Yaohui Zhang
  • Publication number: 20090017943
    Abstract: A Golf Green Reader is disclosed. The device is available in two versions—one that is elongated, is sized similar to the length of a golf umbrella and allows the user to site the putt line while standing, and a second version that is handheld. The device includes optics to provide the user with the ability to site along a laser-pointer line and focus, zoom and obtain a wide-angle view of the cup from the ball location. The device further overlays an image that aids the user in holding the device in a level position while siting along the putt line. The image overlay includes symbology that indicates current spacial orientation of the device, the desired spacial device orientation and the direction to correct the device orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2007
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventor: Ken Landry
  • Publication number: 20080305881
    Abstract: A golf training system and method wherein a device comprising a straight, elongated arm having an axis, a first proximal end, and a second distal end; a wrist bar connected to the elongated arm at a point near the first proximal end, extending perpendicularly from the straight, elongated arm at a right angle to the axis of the straight, elongated arm; a first green laser enclosed by the straight, elongated arm adapted to emit a green laser beam from the first proximal end along the axis; and a second green laser enclosed by the straight, elongated arm adapted to emit a green laser beam from the second distal end is used to train on plane swing, proper wrist angulations, proper hip turn, proper shoulder turn, and a proper putting motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2008
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Applicant: GRIP IT GOLF, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas Paul, Martin Hall
  • Publication number: 20080248890
    Abstract: A system is provided for training a golf club stroke. The system includes a sensor, and a transmitter positioned in a spaced relation to the sensor, where the transmitter transmits a signal received by the. The system further includes a golf club including a head including a transparent medium region, where the head is positioned between the sensor and the transmitter. The signal passes through the transparent medium region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Inventors: Ralph J. Blanchard, James Amato
  • Publication number: 20080248889
    Abstract: A golf club utilizing a columnated beam of light for providing a guiding target, all incorporated into a golf club, having a switch that de-actuates when the club handle is dropped or rotated to a position in excess of a predetermined safe angle from vertical. Such a system to be utilized in a practical, repeatable fashion during ball address and stroke, while preventing errant light tracing during follow through. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2007
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Inventor: Americo Del Raso
  • Publication number: 20080207347
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a golf swing trainer. The golf swing trainer includes a body member including a first surface; a first elongated array of light emitting elements arranged in a longitudinal direction on the first surface of the longitudinal body member; and a controller configured actuate the first elongated array of light emitting elements to generate a moving light pattern representing a position of a simulated golf club head during a simulated swing with at least one of the light emitting elements of the first elongated array.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Inventor: Floyd D. Rose
  • Publication number: 20080167136
    Abstract: A putting training device comprising a putter module which is selectively attachable and detachable to a putter and a target module. The putter module includes at least one indicia viewable when a users head is substantially vertically above the module. The putter module further includes a signaling element and the target module including a receiving element, and an indicating element. In use, the putter is directed towards the target module. A golf ball is struck in the direction of the target module and the indicating element alerts the user of impact condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2007
    Publication date: July 10, 2008
    Inventors: Richard Daniel Henwood, William Henwood
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20080032809
    Abstract: The Golf stance laser alignment device is designed to aid any golfer to be more accurately aligned with their intended direction to a target for flight of a golf ball propelled by striking it with a golf club. The alignment device consists of a periscope sighting lens or view-finder attached to telescope of at least 5Ă— power and a laser generated light line projected on the ground to indicate the accurate foot alignment to an intended target as seen through the sighting telescope. The laser has a diffraction optical element that converts a laser beam into a planar arc of light which when projected onto a surface, such as the ground, produces a laser line. The laser line provides the golfer's feet alignment to the target that is sighted through the periscope or view-finder that has been aimed towards a distant target. The laser will be of sufficient power to be used in all lighting conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2006
    Publication date: February 7, 2008
    Inventor: Jonstan Francizak Korejwa
  • Patent number: 7318778
    Abstract: A golf putter wherein the putter is equipped with a removable laser. The head of the putter includes a mounting plate which has a mounting plate cover. When the laser is not in use, the mounting plate cover is placed on the mounting plate. When the laser is in use, the laser which includes a mounting bracket is attached to the mounting plate. The shaft of the putter includes a battery located inside of the shaft and the electrical connection to the at least one battery. The electrical connection to the laser is located in the center of the mounting plate and is covered by a cap when not in use. An on/off switch and a height adjustment switch are located on the shaft. The on/off switch controls the electricity to the laser and the height adjustment switch allows a user to pivot the laser as necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Inventor: Mark R. Owens
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7286230
    Abstract: A system for aligning an object with a target is disclosed. The system allows an operator to monitor the alignment of the object, either while the object is stationary or while the object is moving through a trajectory, without requiring that the operator directly view the target. The system preferably comprises a positioning unit for attaching to the object, such as a golfing putter, and a target unit for positioning at, near or over a target location, such as a hole. The positioning unit and the target unit are in two-way communication to detect and to indicate alignment of the object with the target. Preferably, the positioning unit emits light that is preferably laser light or infrared light, and the target unit detects that light when the units are aligned. When the positioning unit and the target unit are aligned, the target unit emits an alignment signal that is preferably a radio signal. The radio signal initiates a display element for indicating that the object and target are aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Inventor: D'Miles Salmon
  • Publication number: 20070167248
    Abstract: The golf putter has at least one and preferably three beams, preferably laser, projecting from the front face of the putter, spread vertically. In one embodiment, a single laser is centrally mounted, to project a beam over the top of a ball positioned at the desired impact point on the face of the putter. In another embodiment, two lasers are mounted to project parallel beams on either side of a ball positioned at the desired impact point on the face of the putter. In a preferred embodiment, there are three lasers, namely one projecting a beam over the top of the ball, and two projecting parallel beams on either side of the ball. Preferably there are two switches in the grip of the putter, with the light source(s) being powered only when both switches are pressed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2007
    Publication date: July 19, 2007
    Applicant: U-Putt Inc.
    Inventors: Jack P. Fler, Romuald Pawluczyk
  • Patent number: 7232375
    Abstract: A laser-based measurement system for accurately quantifying a golfer's stance and club position. The measurement system provides accurate linear and angular measurements. From data gathered by the measurement system, a golf club optimized for the golfer's natural stance may be modeled and evaluated. An adjustable club having adjustability in the fourth and fifth axes provided by spherical joints is provided to model a presumed optimal club. The golfer's performance using the modeled, optimized club may be evaluated. Finally, a fixture is provided for accurately customizing a golf club along all of the six axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Inventors: McCarthy Robert, Michael McCarthy
  • Patent number: 7160197
    Abstract: A sports training aid that displays multiple surface-targets so as to aid the practitioner in acquiring accurate alignment, identifying an intermediate surface-target upon which to focus, and building confidence. The training aid utilizes a beginning point (16a), intermediate target (16b), and ultimate target (16c) sources. The surface-target displayed by the ultimate target source (16c) is used to aim at the point where the practitioner ultimately wants his or her ball or object to come to rest. The ball or object is placed upon the surface-target displayed by the beginning point source (16a) and is hit so that it passes over the surface-target displayed by the intermediate target source (16b), and if hit with the correct amount of force, it will come to rest in or upon the ultimate target. The target sources are housed in or upon the target source containment base (14) and the target source containment base is supported by an angled support shaft (12) which is supported by a weighted base (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Inventor: Randy Lee James
  • Patent number: 7160198
    Abstract: A novel method and apparatus for teaching a user to swing a golf club is disclosed herein. A plurality of lasers are movably and securably attached to a golf club. The lasers are set at an angle away from the shaft of the club, said angle being determined by a calculation based on the swing characteristics of the user. The user places a golf ball slightly in front of a visible guideline, said guideline being positioned parallel to the user's shoulders at address of the ball and extending behind and in front of the ball. The plurality of lasers on the shaft of the club produce a plurality of laser points that appear in relation to the guideline during the swing of the club, thereby providing the user with feedback regarding the plane of their swing and the position of the club head and club face. The apparatus is also useful for teaching a user to hit draw and fade shots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Inventor: Adam L. Coates
  • Patent number: 7153216
    Abstract: A laser assembly is removably attached to the shaft of a putter slightly above the head. The position and orientation of the laser assembly is adjusted to direct the laser horizontally in a plane passing through the sweet spot of the putter's face and perpendicular to the face when a user is addressing a golf ball with the putter. Once adjusted, the laser then can give accurate indications, against a backdrop, of the alignment of the putter with respect to a selected target hole, because the laser will illuminate a spot on the backdrop which is in accurate alignment with the putter, and thus allowing the golfer to compare his or her alignment prior to activating the laser. The laser is preferably momentarily actuated by a finger button attached to the putter at or near the grip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Inventor: Norm Pressley
  • Patent number: 7134966
    Abstract: A golf putt training device which is characterized as follows. A light apparatus adapted to project an alignment segment and an aiming spot on a playing surface. Whereby the light apparatus is positioned behind a ball and the aiming spot is projected in front of the ball. The alignment segment is projected over the ball and a putter head. The alignment segment is used to align the putter head during a swing. The method for putt training can begin by projecting an alignment segment and an aiming spot from a light apparatus positioned above a playing surface onto a playing surface. A ball is positioned on a portion of the alignment segment on the playing surface. A putter head of a putter is placed behind the ball on a portion of the alignment segment. The putter head is aligned with the alignment segment. The putter head is moved to strike the ball using the alignment segment to maintain the alignment of the putter head with the alignment segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Inventor: Robert M. Tice
  • Patent number: 7128657
    Abstract: There is provided an improved putting training apparatus and method wherein a golfer may observe, analyze, and record their putting swing. A putter supports two detachable, vertically aligned lasers, each adapted to selectively cast a beam towards a target disposed substantially perpendicular to the face of the putter. A first laser is momentarily illuminated when the putter head address the golf ball. The second laser is illuminated continuously both during the preparation for and during the putt. The second laser records on the target a complete transition of the club head during the time it is illuminated. A camera connected to a computer records the first and second laser traces on the target and provides feedback to the golfer regarding his putting swing. Putter head velocity is thereby easily determined. The lowest point in the arc may be readily compared to the actual point of impact with the ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Inventors: Robert McCarthy, Michael McCarthy
  • Patent number: 7118488
    Abstract: A training putter with a laser line projecting device can be used for putting training to improve putting skill. The device is affixed to a putter head above its sweet spot, and emits a vertical light fan which projects a line on the around normal to the face of the putter head. The line is aligned with the sweet spot of the putter head and lies on the ground to connect the top of a golf ball with a target, such as a cup or a putting hole, so that alignment can be easily visualized. The device can be detached and reattached easily without any laser alignment. Furthermore, the device can be removably mounted to a user's own putter. The heat generated in the laser diode is quickly dissipated through the metal housing, the metal putter head, and the metal shaft to the surrounding air. Since proper operating temperature of the laser diode can be maintained, the laser diode will operate properly, which means the power of the emitted light will not be decreased, and the lifetime of the diode will not be shortened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Newtonics Spectra Inc.
    Inventors: Benny Chan, Suganda Jutamulia, Chih Yen Liu
  • Patent number: 7112145
    Abstract: A golf training device that assists a golfer in sighting the direction to hit, and in the proper alignment of his body with respect to the golf ball. The device has a housing for mounting at least two lasers having a vertical element that provides vertical support for the lasers, a base element that enables at least a portion of the housing to be oriented to a desired sighting, and a spike for stabilizing the housing. Each of the lasers has a diffraction optical element that converts a laser beam into a planar arc of light which when projected onto a surface, such as the ground, produces a laser line. The diffraction optical elements are oriented orthogonal to each other and the resulting lines produced by the lasers are orthogonal. One of the laser lines provides feet alignment and the other provides a feet to ball laser reference line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Inventor: Mark Gaddy
  • Patent number: 7112151
    Abstract: A golf club alignment apparatus includes a golf club head portion which includes an optimal ball hitting portion also known as a “sweet spot”. One or two laser units are connected to the golf club head portion, and the laser units project planar laser beams (e. g. fan beams), wherein portions of the planar laser beams impinge on the ground. The planar laser beams are oriented perpendicularly to a front face of the golf club head portion. The support platform projects outward from behind the golf club head portion. Each laser unit includes a laser beam generating portion for emitting a planar laser beam from the laser beam generating portion. Alignment of a target with a golf ball is aided by employing the planar laser beams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Inventor: Steven L. Adams
  • Patent number: 7077765
    Abstract: A golf swing training device includes a pad having a light-reactive material on one side of the pad, and an indicator having a light source capable of striking the light-reactive material on the pad and creating a visual representation of the light on the pad. The pad includes printed indicia on the light-reactive material in order to illustrate the proper alignment and path for a putting stroke. An individual can place a golf ball on the pad and attach the indicator to the putter, and perform a putting stroke to strike the golf ball on the pad. The movement path of the putter head over the pad is visually illustrated by the reaction of the light source with the light-reactive material such that the individual can compare the actual putting stroke indicated by the light source path on the pad to the printed proper path indicia for the putting stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Inventors: Mark Grossmeyer, James Butts
  • Patent number: 7066826
    Abstract: A head for a practice putter includes a front face with a ball-strike area, a pair of laser beam emitters located within the head and each emitting a laser beam at a respective side of the ball-strike area. The laser beams converge with one another to a point several yards directly forward of the ball-strike area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Pak Wing Tsoi
  • Patent number: 7048642
    Abstract: A golf training device (10) is provided having an elongated housing (20) and a mirror housing (30), with both the elongated housing (20) and mirror housing (30) having indicia (40) imprinted thereon. The elongated housing (20) contains a laser (200) and a mirror assembly (150) for generating a laser beam (80) which is projected in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the elongated housing (20). The laser beam (80) instructs a user on where to position the heel of his or her leading foot (290) and indicia (40) allow for the proper positioning of the golf ball (240) with respect to a chosen golf club for an optimal swing to reach a designated target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Inventor: Paul D. Burley
  • Patent number: 7025688
    Abstract: A laser alignment system comprises a rod, a casing removably couplable with respect to the rod, and a laser positioned within the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventor: George Hatzikostantis
  • Patent number: 6955610
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided that allows individuals of diverse skill levels to improve their respective sports-related swings. The apparatus provides visual, auditory and tactile feedback as to whether an individual is correctly “loading”, “retaining”, and “releasing” the inherent power of the training apparatus. The training apparatus enables an individual to fine tune his/her swing to maximize power delivery, e.g., in driving a golf ball, striking a hockey puck, or hitting a baseball. A slidable member is provided that moves along a shaft between an upper member and a lower member. A retaining mechanism restrains the slidable member in a cocked position, i.e., in juxtaposition with the upper member, until a predetermined force is created through swinging of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: Ketema, LLC
    Inventors: David Czaja, John Adinolfi, Arthur Greene, Gil R. Tatarsky
  • Patent number: 6923728
    Abstract: A golf club face impact alignment device includes a light emitting unit and a light sensing unit. The light emitting unit includes a first light emitting device, a second light emitting device, a power source and an emitting case. The first and second light emitting devices and the power source are retained in the emitting housing. The light emitting unit is attached to the club face of a golf club. The light sensing unit includes a first sensing unit, a second sensing unit and a base. The first and second sensing units are secured to the base. Each sensing unit preferably includes at least one photocell and a sensing case. The golf club is swung between the first and second sensing units. Light emitting from each end of the light emitting unit must be detected by the first and second light sensing units to activate an indication device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Inventor: Teh-Cheng Lin
  • Patent number: 6923729
    Abstract: A golf training club comprising optical sensors, electronics and a display to provide visual feedback related to how a golfer strikes a golf ball. The club includes a shaft having a grip end and a tip distal from the grip end. The club has a club head affixed to the shaft proximate the tip that has a face for striking a golf ball. The optical sensors are embedded in the head and generate signals representative of the contact between the face and ball. The electronics, mounted within the shaft's grip end, process the sensor signals to determine the location of the contact between the face and ball. The display is operable to show such location. The electronics also process the sensor signals to determine whether the ball is tending to slice or hook by detecting lateral movement of the ball during contact with the face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Inventors: Joseph R. McGinty, Charles C Patterson
  • Patent number: 6921340
    Abstract: A golf swing practice comprises a body for attachment to a golf club at the upper end of the club with a second end fitted to the club shaft below the grip. There are a pair of first laser light sources which are directed downwardly and outwardly so as to create diverging beams of light which pass by the front and rear faces of the club head in a plane perpendicular thereto. Securement of the body at the upper end of the golf club is by a pin axially inserted into the end of the club, and by a geared clamp positioned below the grip portion of the golf club so as to be symmetrical about the longitudinal axis thereof. A practice mat has two zones for different stroke practice, and a ball can be struck from it. The speed and direction of a golf club may optionally be determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Inventor: Robert G. Dickie
  • Patent number: 6913542
    Abstract: A golf club for showing swing condition has a shaft and a head connecting to the shaft, and the head having a striking face. The golf club has a visible illuminant that is mounted on the head and exposed outside the head with an upward angle. A battery is for providing electrical power to the light. A centrifugal switch that is actuated by centrifugal force is mounted on the head opposite the striking face for controlling a circuit between the battery and the illuminant. Thereby the illuminant will light by a predetermined-strength centrifugal force during swinging the golf club for investigating the body harmony and strength-exerting condition of golfer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Inventors: Chin-Te Hu, Yung-Tsao Chou
  • Patent number: 6905419
    Abstract: A mount for attaching a laser aiming device to a golf putter comprises a laser bracket for housing a laser aiming device and a golf-club holder. The laser bracket is provided with a sliding recess on a lateral side thereof, being tapered off upwardly. The golf-club holder has a flat portion for being embedded into the sliding recess on the laser bracket and a circular portion for holding a golf club. Thereby, the laser bracket can be fastened together with the golf-club holder as the flat portion is inserted along the sliding recess. At least one non-slip rubber pad is disposed on the inner wall of the circular portion of the golf-club holder, and a retaining screw is installed on the outer side of the circular portion of the golf-club holder. The rubber pad and the retaining screw further enhance the golf-club holder's grip on a golf putter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Inventor: Chung-Kai Yeh
  • Patent number: 6875122
    Abstract: The invention is a putter training device which comprises a laser, housing for the laser, with to connect the laser to a battery source, a battery source, and a trigger. The housing, incorporating the laser is affixed to the putter face, the wire is wound around the shaft of the putter and the battery source/trigger is affixed to the grip of the putter. The invention is designed to be removed and reattached easily and without need for frequent adjustment or calibration. Proper use of the invention simultaneously addresses three common problems for golfers: aim, effective loft, and inconsistent and off-center impact points. The device can be used indoors or out and with or without a ball. The Trigger and the laser can communicate using RF transmissions in an alternative embodiment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: tool., Inc.
    Inventors: William Russell Collins, John Darin Fiegener
  • Patent number: 6840869
    Abstract: An aiming device for a golf club. The device includes a fixing seat with a long body, and one side of the body is thicker than the other side and the fixing seat has a wedgy shape. A clamping portion with a C-shape in cross view sets beside the long body thereof for clamping on a club or a grip of the golf. There is a connect portion on the other side of the long body. A main body in a long shape has a connect portion at one side thereof and connects with the connect portion of the fixing seat. A laser member pivots on the main body and towards the head. A switch sets on the main body for controlling on and off of the laser member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Inventor: David Chen
  • Publication number: 20040220001
    Abstract: The present invention provides sporting equipment having lights.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2003
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventors: Michael J. Oister, Thomas M. Doherty, William C. Boettcher, David Schmitt
  • Patent number: 6796910
    Abstract: A laser guided putting aid to enable a golfer to practice and perfect his putting stroke. The laser guided putting aid includes a combination laser and clamp by which the laser is detachably connected to the shaft of the putter without having to make any changes thereto. The laster emits a pattern of light that fans out in a vertical plane so as to cast a vertical reference line against a target that is located at the end of a putting surface. The golfer practices his putting stroke while attempting to maintain the position of the vertical reference line against the target. If the golfer's putting strokes becomes non-linear, the reference line will move off the target to immediately provide the golfer with a visual indication that his stroke is off-line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Inventor: Clark B. Foster
  • Publication number: 20040152531
    Abstract: An aiming device of the golf is provided by the present invention including a fixing seat with a long body, one side of the body is thicker than the other side and makes the fixing seat becoming wedgy shape. A clamping portion with a C shapes in cross view sets beside said long body thereof for clamping on a club or a grip of the golf and makes the thicker side of said long body on the top. There is a connect portion on the other side of said long body. A main body in long shape has a connect portion at one side thereof and connect with said connect portion of the fixing seat. A laser member pivots on said main body and toward the head. A switch sets on the main body also for controlling on and off of the laser member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2003
    Publication date: August 5, 2004
    Inventor: David Chen
  • Patent number: 6770002
    Abstract: A bat, constructed generally of the shape, weight and material usually used and formed for the batter is provided so as to have a small diameter stream of light extended through the central axis from one end to the other. The formation of the light stream emitting out the knob end of the bat will allow the batter to correctly align the knob of the bat with the ball during the initial movement of a swing. The batter and his/her coach will then be able to determine if there are errors in the player's angular position of the bat relative to the ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Inventor: Christine Aigotti
  • Patent number: 6767291
    Abstract: A putting device and system for analyzing how a golfer addresses and strokes a golf ball. The putting device includes a plurality of lasers that are mounted on the putter. The laser project beams of light at the ball, at a target, and at a proximate side screen to show the accuracy and trueness of a putting swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Inventor: Robert McCarthy
  • Publication number: 20040137997
    Abstract: A laser or other focused beam is mounted in a device with the appearance from above of a golf ball which device can either rest on the ground in contact with a putterface or be attached to a putterhead or other clubhead such that the focused beam is at a 90 degree angle to the putterface. After the device user is satisfied that the club is properly aimed or aligned at a target, the laser beam is activated via a wired foot, or finger, or wireless switch such that the actual aim can be compared on a visible or blind screen behind the target with the intended target. The device can be used with any putter for putter training, putter club fitting, and putter aim testing and selection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Applicant: Rohrer Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: John W. Rohrer
  • Patent number: 6758760
    Abstract: An improved club swing training device is provided for assisting persons, such as golfers to improve their golf swing. The training aid includes a power source, a light source such as a laser beam, a light deflector such as a mirror and a motor for rotating the light deflector. The light source, light deflector and motor are affixed to the proximal end of a club shaft. In operation, the light source strikes the light deflector which is rotated by the motor. The light deflector is angled relative to the axis of the light source's emitted beam so that upon the beam striking the light deflector, it is redirected in a second direction so as to form a fan of light as the motor rotates the light deflector. The swing training aid includes a scabbard for affixing the motor, light deflector and light source to the proximal end of a club and for positioning these components so as to position the fan of light so as to assist a person in seeing their club swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Inventors: Norman D. Kellogg, Eugene J. Albertini