Barrier Which Monitors Swingable Implement Head Movement Patents (Class 473/261)
  • Publication number: 20140213383
    Abstract: A putting stroke training system identifies a preferred putting stroke and facilitates training for a golfer to repeat the preferred putting stroke. The training system includes a grid box with a fixed side wall and a movable side wall. The movable side wall is positionable relative to the fixed side wall into alignment with the preferred putting stroke. The training system also includes an alignment sensor attachable to a putter head. In some embodiments, the alignment sensor signals when the putter head deviates from the preferred stroke.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2014
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Inventor: Norman Douglas Bittner
  • Publication number: 20140155187
    Abstract: A device for assisting and training golfers with their putts. The device includes an elongated section configured to be placed on the ground where the golfer intends to make his backswing for a selected put. A vertical section or “backstop” is configured to be placed at selected locations along the elongated section to corresponding to different putt lengths, and therefore different backswing lengths. A distance scale may be printed on the elongated section. Light projection devices may be included to project a predicted ball path. A backswing speed indicator system may also be included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2013
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Inventors: John R. Spelman, Trevor Alan Wade
  • Publication number: 20140031136
    Abstract: A putting stroke training system identifies a preferred putting stroke and facilitates training for a golfer to repeat the preferred putting stroke. The training system includes a grid box with a fixed side wall and a movable side wall. The movable side wall is positionable relative to the fixed side wall into alignment with the preferred putting stroke. The training system also includes an alignment sensor attachable to a putter head. In some embodiments, the alignment sensor signals when the putter head deviates from the preferred stroke.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Inventor: Norman Douglas Bittner
  • Patent number: 8556743
    Abstract: A putting practice device has a bottom support, side supports, a front plate, and a cover. The side supports are attached at opposed ends of the bottom support. Each side support has a top edge with a horizontally disposed sliding track. A front plate has a face that defines at least a portion of a desired travel path of a putter head. A cover has sliders that engage the sliding track of the side supports and the central support such that the top plate is slideably connected to each side support and to the central support. The cover has an extended portion that extends past the front plate and covers the at least a portion of the desired travel path. The position of the extended portion is adjustable by sliding the sliders along the sliding tracks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Putting Cyclops Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph Forest
  • Patent number: 8529364
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method enabling a controlled approach to making accurate puts in golfing. The apparatus uses laser aiming, measured stroking distances, and a surface analysis aid to benchmark a perfect put. The method enhances control by eliminating the back half of the swing while providing data points for reassessment of performance during practice training.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Inventor: Keir De Anda
  • Patent number: 8439767
    Abstract: A swinging mechanism and a ball capturing target, used together or separately, teach putting skills and enable entertaining indoor/outdoor putting games and practice. The swinging mechanism teaches tempo, direction and distance control. The mechanism adjusts to fit most bodies and putters to achieve a repeatable eye-over-ball setup. The putter-head's backside pushes the mechanism aft and lets the mechanism pace the forward stroke. Premature head and sternum movement are eliminated by focusing on swing-thought words on the base; feeling the support rod against your sternum; and noticing the mechanism tap your cheek at the instant you see and hear the putter-ball impact. Colored ball-sets are putted through 3 different sized openings into separated capture zones to score 1, 2, or 3 points per ball. Player's uniquely colored ball-sets enable easy counting and strategy changes as games progress. After final score count, up to 75 balls are easily retrieved for a new round.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Louis Joseph Feiner
  • Patent number: 8298094
    Abstract: A golf training apparatus for training short game and putting game techniques includes (1) an upright support having an upright post, (2) a sliding track assembly having a first track bar transversely mounted at the upright post, a second track bar movably coupled to the first track bar and ball bearings set between the first track bar and the second track bar for guiding sliding movement of the second track bar along the first track bar, and (3) a golf club lock having a locking unit for locking a golf club and a universal joint connected to the locking unit and joined to the second track bar of the sliding track assembly for enabling the golf club to be swung with the universal joint and moved with the second track bar relative to the first track bar by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventor: Yung-Shen Chen
  • Publication number: 20120088596
    Abstract: A putting practice device has a bottom support, side supports, a front plate, and a cover. The side supports are attached at opposed ends of the bottom support. Each side support has a top edge with a horizontally disposed sliding track. A front plate has a face that defines at least a portion of a desired travel path of a putter head. A cover has sliders that engage the sliding track of the side supports and the central support such that the top plate is slideably connected to each side support and to the central support. The cover has an extended portion that extends past the front plate and covers the at least a portion of the desired travel path. The position of the extended portion is adjustable by sliding the sliders along the sliding tracks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Applicant: PUTTING CYCLOPS INC.
    Inventor: Joseph Forest
  • Publication number: 20110263347
    Abstract: A golf putting training apparatus for improving a golf stroke along a line of intended travel of a golf ball. The golf training apparatus includes a pair of upright supports and an eye alignment tool for aligning a user's eyes above the apparatus and in a vertical plane that includes the golf ball and the line of intended travel. The eye alignment tool is supported by and connected between the supports and above the golf ball and includes a substantially linear top edge and pair of generally parallel planar sides depending from the top edge toward a bottom edge. With the golf putting training apparatus further including a longitudinally elongated tool arranged under the lower bottom edge of said eye alignment tool and extending along the line of intended travel of said golf ball. A method of training a golfer to use a putter used by the golfer during a golf putting stroke is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2010
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventor: Chad Johansen
  • Patent number: 8029379
    Abstract: A golf putting training apparatus for improving a golf stroke along a line of intended travel of a golf ball. The golf training apparatus includes a pair of upright supports and an eye alignment tool for aligning a user's eyes above the apparatus and in a vertical plane that includes the golf ball and the line of intended travel. The eye alignment tool is supported by and connected between the supports and above the golf ball and includes a substantially linear top edge and pair of generally parallel planar sides depending from the top edge toward a bottom edge. A method of training a golfer to use a putter used by the golfer during a golf putting stroke is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Inventor: Chad Johansen
  • Patent number: 8029380
    Abstract: A golf putting training apparatus for improving a golf stroke along a line of intended travel of a golf ball. The golf training apparatus includes a pair of upright supports and an eye alignment tool for aligning a user's eyes above the apparatus and in a vertical plane that includes the golf ball and the line of intended travel. The eye alignment tool is supported by and connected between the supports and above the golf ball and includes a substantially linear top edge and pair of generally parallel planar sides depending from the top edge toward a bottom edge. With the golf putting training apparatus further including a longitudinally elongated tool arranged under the lower bottom edge of said eye alignment tool and extending along the line of intended travel of said golf ball. A method of training a golfer to use a putter used by the golfer during a golf putting stroke is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Inventor: Chad Johansen
  • Patent number: 7717802
    Abstract: The putting training device positions a plurality of objects and a practice ball on a practice surface, and, in the preferred embodiment, comprises an arm arrangement of two connected rods having telescoping ball receptacles at each end. Four golf balls contained within perimeter receptacles are guiding balls. A golf ball positioned within a fifth receptacle is a practice ball to be putted once the putting training device is removed from the five positioned golf balls. The method comprises: providing an alignment device comprising; two ball sockets that define a take-away gap; two ball sockets that define a follow-through gap; the take-away gap and follow through gap further defining a putting arc distance gap; placing a plurality of objects on a putting surface; overlaying the alignment device on the objects so that the sockets contain an object; and removing the device, thereby leaving the objects on the putting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Inventor: Chris A. Christensen
  • Patent number: 7686703
    Abstract: A practice device for corrected golf swing basically comprises a frame which is relatively long in one direction and a pair of strip-shaped members extending in alignment with each other in the one direction so as to define a straight target line. The frame includes a pair of space defining members extending in the one direction in parallel to each other leaving a space therebetween so that said space is adjustable. The strip-shaped members linearly extend outward in the one direction from respective middle locations on the lines connecting respective pairs of the frame ends which are opposed in a direction orthogonal to said one direction, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Tabata Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Haruo Kawashima, Nobuyuki Abe
  • Patent number: 7625296
    Abstract: A directional practice device includes an elongated ball-receiving member disposed on a flat surface and having a slot adapted for receiving a plurality of golf balls, and an upright heel-engaging surface disposed at a side of the ball-receiving member and perpendicular to the flat surface. The heel-engaging surface has a lower end defining a side of a head-traveling path extending along a longitudinal direction. The golf balls can be pushed by a putter head to drop from the slot onto the head-traveling path one at a time. After one of the golf balls drops onto the head-traveling path, the putter head can be moved along the head-traveling path to strike the one of the golf balls in the longitudinal direction in such a manner that the heel of the putter head moves on the heel-engaging surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Inventors: Victor Wu, Leo Wu, Authar Wu
  • Publication number: 20090286613
    Abstract: A golf stroke training device includes a base that has a first section and a second section, and a vertical guide coupled to the base. The vertical guide is substantially perpendicular to the base. The first section has an arc extending from an approximate midpoint of the device to a first end of the device, and the second section comprises a substantially straight edge extending from the approximate midpoint of the device to a second end of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2008
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Applicant: Momentus Golf
    Inventor: James W. Sorenson
  • Patent number: 7594860
    Abstract: A golf swing training apparatus for practicing a golf swing. In one embodiment, the training apparatus includes a sensor unit including a sensor outputting a sensor beam in a substantially horizontal direction, the sensor unit further including a microcontroller in operable communication with the sensor, the microcontroller configured to detect a break in the sensor beam, the sensor unit further including one or more visual indicators, wherein the one or more visual indicators are in operable communication with the microcontroller, and wherein the one or more visual indicators are activated in response to the break in the sensor beam; and a frame coupled to the sensor unit, the frame including a reflector configured to reflect the sensor beam. In another embodiment, a section of the frame may be moved between a first position used to practice driving and a second position used to practice pitching and chipping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Assignee: Dream N Act Co. Limited
    Inventors: Andrew Jason Good, Ha Nam Roger Wong
  • Patent number: 7566277
    Abstract: The invention concerns a golf putting practice device including a base plate and a plurality of pins intended to be detachably attached in an upright position in at least two rows on an upper side of the base plate to form a path for a head of a golf putter. The device includes a tilting and restoring unit that allows the pins to bend from their normal upright position when subjected to an impact force and that returns the pins to their normal upright position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: Esoteric Golf Technology International AB
    Inventor: Tomas Dahl
  • Publication number: 20090181787
    Abstract: A golf putting training system for a golfer is disclosed generally comprising a linear measurement device that is placed on the ground such that a golf ball is placed at one end and a stopper for engaging a putting head is positioned along the measurement device at a desired distance from the ball. A golfer putts the golf ball, taking a backswing that moves the putter head to the surface of the stopper prior to accelerating towards the ball. The golfer then compares the distance between the end of the measurement device and the stopper to the distance between the end of the measurement device and the final destination of the golf ball. In this way, the golfer can calculate a backswing-to-putt ratio to quickly determine the required backswing distance for any desired putt distance for a given stroke acceleration rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventor: Joseph Lane
  • Publication number: 20090170623
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device and method for putting practice. The putting training device of the present invention positions a plurality of objects and a practice ball on a practice surface in a pattern and, in the preferred embodiment, comprises an arm arrangement of two connected rods having telescoping ball receptacles at each end. The rods are pivotally connected at the approximate midpoint of each rod at a pivot point such that the rods may move in a scissor-like fashion. Each receptacle contains a cavity that allows a standard golf ball to nest within it. A fifth receptacle is located directly below the pivot point of the two rods and also contains a cavity in which a golf ball may nest. The four golf balls contained within the perimeter receptacles are the guiding balls. The golf ball positioned within the fifth receptacle is the practice ball to be putted once the putting training device is removed from the five positioned golf balls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventor: Chris A. Christensen
  • Patent number: 7491132
    Abstract: Three rectangular panels create an adjustable golf swing plane and physical barrier suitable for teaching and practicing any golf shot with any golf club. In the preferred embodiment, the three panels are pivotally secured by a living hinge system. One side of the base panel is grooved to secure the panel used for driving. For bunker shots, the base panel rotates 180 degrees for placement under sand. For putting, a putter slides across the putting panel and an integrated mirror provides the golfer visual alignment of the golfer's eyes, shoulders and putter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: FigJam Inc.
    Inventors: Tony Bush, III, Frank Benner Falkenburg
  • Patent number: 7465242
    Abstract: A golf swing plane training method and apparatus consisting a pair of elastic cords suspended above the ground faithfully defining a cross section of the swing plane. The elastic cords are parallel to each other and approximately parallel to the ground. The plane formed by the two elastic cords is substantially perpendicular to the proper swing plane at a height ranging from the level of the knees to the level of the waist of a golfer at address. The height of the elastic cords is slidably adjustable to accommodate the full range of golf clubs and golfers of varying sizes and heights. The distance between the elastic cords can be altered to accommodate golfers of different skill levels. As the skill level of the golfer improves, the elastic cords can be located closer together. A method for using the apparatus is submitted to provide the golfer with checkpoints that indicate a proper swing plane. In addition, if the golf club is swung incorrectly, the trainer restricts completion of that swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Inventors: Tom P. Ward, Brian E. Costa
  • Patent number: 7455596
    Abstract: An alignment device for aligning an impact point of a golf ball in order to correlate the perceived alignment of the ball by a golfer with the actual direction of impact required to maximize the probability of the ball traveling in the desired direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Inventor: Phillip R. Greene
  • Patent number: 7429222
    Abstract: A device for putting a golf ball. In one embodiment, the device comprises a base having an elongated side defining a base line, a first and second shoulder attached to the base, and a guide member pivotly attached to the first and second shoulders. The guide member has a top surface, and the guide member contains an elongated side defining a shaft line that is parallel with the base line of the base. The top surface also has a slotted opening that defines a practice line that is parallel with the base line of the base and the shaft line of the guide member. In one embodiment, the slotted opening has a variable top. Also, the device may include a laser and a target reflector, and wherein the laser beam is parallel with the base line, shaft line, and practice line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Inventor: Mark W. Tolson
  • Publication number: 20070293337
    Abstract: A putting practice device includes a generally horizontal rectangular putting board including a base member, and a layer of grass-like synthetic plastic material bonded to the upper surface of the base member, thereby to define a putting board. Two diagonally-arranged corner portions of the putting board contain putting holes that extend downwardly through the grass-like layer partially into the base member. At least one alignment string is supported in space relation above the grass-like layer, which alignment string extends over one of the putting holes in a direction parallel with a longitudinal edge of the putting board. Vertical adjustment devices are provided at the corner portions of the putting board for varying the heights of the corner portions relative to a fixed support. Preferably, to provide a universal putting board, putting holes are provided in all four corners, and the two non-used holds are filled by a removable filler plug.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Publication date: December 20, 2007
    Inventor: James S. Payne
  • Patent number: 7281986
    Abstract: A device for putting a golf ball. In one embodiment, the device comprises a base having an elongated side defining a base line, a first and second shoulder attached to the base, and a guide member pivotly attached to the first and second shoulders. The guide member has a top surface, and the guide member contains an elongated side defining a shaft line that is parallel with the base line of the base. The top surface also has a slotted opening that defines a practice line that is parallel with the base line of the base and the shaft line of the guide member. In one embodiment, the slotted opening has a variable top. Also, the device may include a laser and a target reflector, and wherein the laser beam is parallel with the base line, shaft line, and practice line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Inventor: Mark W. Tolson
  • Patent number: 7267618
    Abstract: A system for teaching proper takeaway of a golf club during a golf swing uses an apparatus having a sliding element for engaging a back of the golf club when the club is in a set-up position. The sliding element moves in a defined track in response to movement of the club towards a ball striking position. Movement of the sliding element while the club is in contact with it indicates the path of movement of the club.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Inside Right, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Jon Cohen
  • Patent number: 7217198
    Abstract: A golf putting practice aid comprising a guide having a guide surface (3) with which a heel or the toe of a putter makes contact in use. The guide is positioned to extend upwardly from a substantially planar base or ground surface (1,100?). By making the guide surface straight throughout its length, and inclined towards the user, the surface will act to constrain the putter head to follow an inclined plane angled towards the user. By using a planar guide 3?, a player can decide whether to have the toe or the heel of the putter guided thereby.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Inventor: Roger J. Brooks
  • Patent number: 7172515
    Abstract: A golf swing plane training method and apparatus consisting a pair of elastic cords suspended above the ground faithfully defining a cross section of the swing plane. The elastic cords are parallel to each other and approximately parallel to the ground. The plane formed by the two elastic cords is substantially perpendicular to the proper swing plane at a height ranging from the level of the knees to the level of the waist of a golfer at address. The height of the elastic cords is slidably adjustable to accommodate the full range of golf clubs and golfers of varying sizes and heights. The distance between the elastic cords can be altered to accommodate golfers of different skill levels. As the skill level of the golfer improves, the elastic cords can be located closer together. A method for using the apparatus is submitted to provide the golfer with checkpoints that indicate a proper swing plane. In addition, if the golf club is swung incorrectly, the trainer restricts completion of that swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Inventors: Brian E Costa, Tom P Ward
  • Patent number: 7160201
    Abstract: A golf putting trainer includes a holder for a putter having a shaft and a head, elements for guiding the holder in a curved movement path and elements for holding the putter head in a position perpendicular to the direction of movement of the holder. The golf putting trainer includes elements for adjusting the curvature of the movement path of the holder both vertically and horizontally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Inventor: Tomas Dahl
  • Patent number: 7125342
    Abstract: A putting training aid and putter calibration device for use on a putting surface is disclosed which includes a horizontal calibrated bar with a linear centered scale and a parallel calibration block having an orthogonal face and set on the practice putting surface below and offset from the horizontal calibrated bar. Also provided is a linear scale decal which is applied to a putter shaft. The device is designed to align the putter head to proper lie and neutral loft so that the face is square to the intended target line and to teach the golfer the proper grip, stance, alignment of the golfer, alignment of the club and proper putting stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventors: Richard M. Port, John M. Andrews
  • Patent number: 7112146
    Abstract: A putting practice and training device having a support member having a first end and a second end. The first end may be adapted engage a surface. A rotatable, swingable arm may have at least two members arranged where only one member is visible when viewing the arm from above the putting practice and training device. At least one indicating means may be slidably mounted on at least one member. The rotatable, swingable arm may be adapted to perpindicularily engage the second end of the support member whereby the arm rotates the two members to be level with the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Inventor: Russ Bennett
  • Patent number: 7083527
    Abstract: A golf putting aid is provided that includes first and second attachment structures. Upper and lower alignment members are each disposed between and attached to the attachment structures. The alignment members are also vertically aligned to define a vertical plane which is perpendicular to a putting surface. The putting aid also includes at least one longitudinal support member disposed between and fixedly attached to the attachment structures, and a target attached to the first attachment structure, such that the target defines an opening that is at least as large as a regulation size golf ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignee: Concord Century Int'l Ltd.
    Inventors: Woon Shing Tai, Marc Boggia
  • Patent number: 7077759
    Abstract: There is provided a golf putting training apparatus that is portable and operable with standard USGA golf equipment. The apparatus include parallel channels each emanating from a respective dimple. The channels are separated by a distance such that a golf ball placed on each dimple can be simultaneously using a standard putter, but also so that the golf balls do not contact each other. A chamfered portion allows the golf balls to roll continously off of the apparatus and onto an undersurface. By measuring the distance that each golf ball travels, a golfer gauges the accuracy of his swing. An obverse surface of the apparatus contains indicia that assists a golfer in aligning his positioning and stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Inventor: James Patrick McNulty
  • Patent number: 7029401
    Abstract: The present invention is a golf practice device for assisting in the development of a correct golf swing including an elevated path guidance apparatus for establishing a linear path limit under which the correct golf swing can arc while passing through a stationary ball location; and a support apparatus for elevating the elevated path guidance means above the ground; wherein the path guidance apparatus is a cylindrical assembly elevated substantially horizontally and disposed in opposite relation to a golf target, the cylindrical assembly engaged to the support apparatus by a cradle interface adapted to disengage under impact with a swinging golf club.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Inventor: Jim Sowerwine
  • Patent number: 7004851
    Abstract: A golf training aid for improving putting stroke and stance is transparent plastic in the shape of a tunnel, the bottom being open for placement on grass or carpet. A guide slot is formed by a rectilinear guide slot housing centrally disposed along the length of the upper wall and extending forward from the entrance opening, forming a neck. A black or opaque strip of plastic forms an extendable guide bar slidingly fitting within the guide slot. The extendable guide bar may be pulled forward a desired distance so as to increase the effective length of the device. Parallel opaque stripes are located along the length of the upper wall and spaced the diameter of a golf cup. The golfer evaluates putting stroke and ball travel relative to the guide bar and stripes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Inventor: Riley G. Pierce
  • Patent number: 7001285
    Abstract: A golfing aid comprising a guide structure in the form of a base member with a plurality of swing deviation indicators pivotally mounted thereon with the indicators positioned on opposite sides of a desired area defining an intended club head swing path, the deviation indicators are each yieldably mounted in a manner to allow a responding rotation upon being struck by a club head deviating from the intended club head swing path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: Tracker Golf LLC
    Inventor: Todd W. Ahrend
  • Patent number: 6932712
    Abstract: A golf teaching and training device including a frame adapted to extend upwardly from a playing surface and a pair of pivotable arms extending away from the frame in a spaced relationship from the base of the frame and adapted to prevent an over-the-top golf swing. A track associated with the frame includes a slide to which a putter club may be releasably secured for allowing a golfer to practice his/her putting stroke. A mat may also be adapted to be seated beneath the frame and includes golf ball placement markings positioned generally below the arm of the device and corresponding foot placement markings spaced selected distances from the respective golf ball placement markings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Inventor: James A. Cardosi
  • Patent number: 6921341
    Abstract: A putting training aid and putter calibration device for use on a putting surface is disclosed which includes a horizontal calibrated bar with a linear centered scale and a parallel calibration block having an orthogonal face and set on the practice putting surface below and offset from the horizontal calibrated bar. Also provided is a linear scale decal which is applied to a putter shaft. The device is designed to align the putter head to proper lie and neutral loft so that the face is square to the intended target line and to teach the golfer the proper grip, stance, alignment of the golfer, alignment of the club and proper putting stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Inventors: Richard M. Port, John M. Andrews
  • Patent number: 6890268
    Abstract: A golf club training apparatus for use in operable combination with a golf club includes an alignment device having a golf club head receiving structure formed of a base portion having a front edge, a rear edge, and first and second side edges, as well as a rear wall extending upwardly from the rear edge, first and second side walls extending upwardly from the first and second side edges, respectively, and front retaining tabs extending upwardly from the front edge of the base portion. The rear wall, the first and second side walls, the front retaining tabs, and the base portion, in combination, are sized and configured to operably receive and frictionally retain a head element of the golf club therebetween. The golf club head receiving structure is configured to solely operably maintain the golf club in an upright playing position when the alignment device is operably disposed on a substantially horizontal surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Dandy Golf
    Inventors: Allan M. Strand, Phillip Downey
  • Patent number: 6840870
    Abstract: An alignment guide for practice putting has a base with perpendicular target and putter face lines. An unobstructed gap extends away from the putter face line along the target line. A pair of guide rails are secured to the base in parallel relationship to and on opposite sides of the target line and spaced apart by a distance slightly greater than the distance from the toe to the heel of the putter head. The putter head can, therefore, move freely between, but be guided by, the rails. An adjustable stop limits the backswing of the putter head to allow comparison of the length of the backswing with the travel distance of the ball. An adjustable pair of stops simultaneously limiting travel of the toe and the heel of the putter head in the follow through confirm that the putter face has remained square to the target line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Inventor: Samuel D. Froggatte
  • Publication number: 20040204261
    Abstract: A putting training aid and putter calibration device for use on a putting surface is disclosed which includes a horizontal calibrated bar with a linear centered scale and a parallel calibration block having an orthogonal face and set on the practice putting surface below and offset from the horizontal calibrated bar. Also provided is a linear scale decal which is applied to a putter shaft. The device is designed to align the putter head to proper lie and neutral loft so that the face is square to the intended target line and to teach the golfer the proper grip, stance, alignment of the golfer, alignment of the club and proper putting stroke.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2004
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Inventors: Richard M. Port, John M. Andrews
  • Publication number: 20040198525
    Abstract: A golf swing training apparatus increases the efficiency of the training process for a desired golf swing. Multiple training apparatus are mounted on a support base to define the proper golf swing path and corresponding body movement. The golfer strikes a barrier when the golf swing is performed in an undesirable manner, thus providing negative feedback in the training of the desired swing yet positive results. The apparatus allows a golfer to practice a selected swing without restraints to facilitate muscle memory of an optimal golf swing and with optimal body movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Michael E. Bender
  • Patent number: 6773357
    Abstract: A putting aid is provided that has a first and a second attachment structure, an upper alignment member disposed between and attached to the attachment structures and a lower alignment member disposed between and attached to the attachment structures, such that the alignment members are vertically aligned to define a vertical plane which is perpendicular to a putting surface. In use, a golf ball is positioned on the putting surface such that a centerline of the golf ball is aligned with the vertical plane, and thus is also aligned with the target line. The golfer then aligns the golfer's line of sight with the vertical plane such that the upper alignment member obscures the lower alignment member, aligns an aim line of a putter such that the alignment members obscure the aim line of the putter and maintains both the alignment of the golfer's line of sight and the alignment of the aim line of the putter during a putting stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: Concord Century Int'l Ltd.
    Inventors: Woon Shing Tai, Marc Boggia
  • Publication number: 20040152535
    Abstract: A golf putting training method and apparatus for teaching a golfer how to swing a golf club head through a stroke path to strike a golf ball. The method and apparatus mechanically controlling the front to back movement of the club head along a stroke path to be generally parallel to the stroke path, mechanically controlling the club head to be generally perpendicular to the stroke path, and mechanically controlling the arc of the club head within the stroke path to follow a predetermined arc. The pitch of the club head face and also be mechanically controlled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2003
    Publication date: August 5, 2004
    Inventor: Dean J. Thompson
  • Patent number: 6755751
    Abstract: An apparatus for improving a golfer's putting stroke along a line of intended travel of a golf ball. The apparatus enables the golfer to practice positioning his or hear head and feet in selected positions with respect to the golf ball and the line of intended ball travel, as well as the desired positioning of the putter, at the address position. The golfer can also practice the motion of the putting stroke according to either a “straight back/straight through” or “inside the line” stroke motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Inventor: Christopher Ray Chapman
  • Patent number: 6729968
    Abstract: A putting training aid and putter calibration device for use on a putting surface is disclosed which includes a horizontal calibrated bar with a linear centered scale and a parallel calibration block having an oblique face and set on the practice putting surface below and offset from the horizontal calibrated bar. Also provided is a linear scale decal which is applied to a putter shaft. The device is designed to align the putter head to proper lie and neutral loft so that the face is square to the intended target line and to teach the golfer the proper grip, stance, alignment of the golfer, alignment of the club and proper putting stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventors: Richard M. Port, John M. Andrews
  • Patent number: 6716113
    Abstract: A golf putting training device for improving the putting of a golfer. The golf putting training device includes a body member having a base portion. The base portion is designed for resting on a support surface. The body member has a distal wall. The distal wall is coupled to a distal edge of the base portion. The distal wall is designed for hampering the back swing of the golfer when the golfer does not draw the putter back straight. The body member has a cut out portion. The cut out portion extends in from a leading edge of the base portion. The cut out portion is designed for receiving a golf ball whereby the cut out portion aligns the golf ball with a longitudinal axis of the base portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Inventors: Michael J. Manning, Paul C. Steinhilper
  • Patent number: 6709343
    Abstract: A golf putt training apparatus is provided which assists a golfer in maintaining the putter head along an intendded target line while practicing a putting stroke. The training apparatus includes a pair of mutually opposing guide rails having plurality of substantially rigid teeth projecting in the direction of the opposing guide rail which stop the putter head from advancing off the intended target line. By leaving to advance the putter head between the guide rails without engaging the rigid teeth a golfer can develop a habit of keeping the putter head on the desired target line during a putting stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Mystic Golf, L.L.C.
    Inventors: William T. O'Connor, Paul E. Reehil
  • Publication number: 20040038743
    Abstract: A golf training device to help a golfer improve a golf swing. The device includes a base member, a mast member, and at least one swing indicator. The mast member is coupled with the base member and has opposite ends and a plurality of holes. The swing indicator(s) are insertable into at least one of said plurality of holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventor: Joseph Warren Belanger
  • Patent number: 6669574
    Abstract: A device for training a golfer to putt correctly using the concept of muscle memory having an adjustable width, elongated guide path between parallel guide members mounted on an elongated pad. The pad has a fixed guide member and a laterally movable guide member allowing the golfer to form a lengthwise guide path of proper width to allow a putter head of a given width to be swung along the guide path. The device, thus adjusted, guides the golfer in swinging the putter along a straight line and hitting the ball along a desired path. Vertically spaced electrodes running the length of the respective guide member inner walls sound a buzzer when the head of the putter makes contact with the guide member wall. Lengthwise reference lines are provided along the guide path. Crosswise lines are located on the tops of the guide members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Inventors: Thomas P. Riley, Beatrice M. Riley