Selectively Adjustable With Pivotal Members Patents (Class 473/272)
  • Patent number: 11590399
    Abstract: A golf training apparatus device may include a ball plate with golf ball spaced markings on a surface; a ball slide including a channel configured to slideably receive the ball plate as a linear guide and configured to enable linear sliding motion of the ball plate relative to the ball slide; a foot plate; a foot slide including a channel configured to slideably receive the foot plate as a linear guide and configured to enable linear sliding motion of the foot plate relative to the foot slide, the foot slide is rotatably coupled to the ball slide, and may include a telescoping member rotatably coupled to one of the slides, and may further include a swing slide rotatably coupled to a swing plate, where the swing slide may be slidably coupled to the ball or foot plate, and the foot plate may include feet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2023
    Inventor: Charles G. Davis
  • Patent number: 11497979
    Abstract: An alignment rod includes a first rod and a second rod movably connected to each other, and a first connecting rod and a second connecting rod connecting the first rod and the second rod. The first rod and the second rod substantially overlap each other in a collapsed configuration, and the first rod and the second rod are spaced apart from each other in an expanded configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Inventor: Jose A. Castillo
  • Patent number: 9623272
    Abstract: Some embodiments of the invention provide a starting block system for use with a swimming pool. A pedestal is designed to support a platform. A back plate is disposed along a rear edge of the platform and has a width dimension that is less than the width dimension of the platform. A slide mechanism is disposed adjacent the rear edge of the platform and is in communication with the back plate. The back plate is designed to slide laterally adjacent the rear edge of the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: Pentair Water Pool and Spa, Inc.
    Inventors: Jim Drozdowski, Jonathan Mapes, Chris Jung, Jerry Amato
  • Patent number: 9289671
    Abstract: A golf swing instruction device is provided that includes first and second members, each being moveable with respect to one another by way of coupling arms coupled there between. Positioning members, for a golfer's feet and the golf ball, may be moved along a length of the first and second members to help position the golfer with respect to the ball. The first and second members may be positioned next to one another, may be moved away from each other on a first end or on an opposing second end, or may be moved away from one another on both ends such that first and second members are spaced apart from one another. In these configurations, the device assists the golfer in shaping a golf shot, such as a straight shot, fade, draw or putt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: HGH ENTERPRISES, LLC
    Inventor: Eric Heddleston
  • Patent number: 9242163
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a golf alignment device that holds alignment rods at multiple positions to provide indicators for a golfer's target line, swing, and setup. The base piece has two arms on each end that hold an alignment rod parallel to the base piece, but with a gap between the two rods. These rods are pointed at the golfer's desired target, and this forms the target line. The base piece has multiple holes for a third alignment rod to be inserted. This third rod provides a golfer with a ball, clubface, and hand position indicator. A golfer uses the base piece to align their body up parallel with the target line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Inventor: Corey Kronzer
  • Patent number: 8951140
    Abstract: A golf swing stance trainer has a hub and a central telescoping arm connected to the hub. Side telescoping arms are connected to the hub for swinging outward to positions perpendicular to the central arm. The hub has ground-engaging cleats on a lower surface. The central arm is selectively extended outward for position with respect to a ball position. The side arms are selectively extended outward to indicate desired foot positions. The central arm has an extension with a pivot for sliding outward from the central arm for training position and direction of a golf ball and direction and extent of a swing. Arm extensions are related to an individual user and club selection. The arms are telescoped inward and the side arms are swung inward for carrying. The hub includes a hinge rod with a central receive through which a connected on the central arm slides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Inventor: Richard Kim
  • Publication number: 20140287850
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a golf alignment device that holds alignment rods at multiple positions to provide indicators for a golfer's target line, swing, and setup. The base piece has two arms on each end that hold an alignment rod parallel to the base piece, but with a gap between the two rods. These rods are pointed at the golfer's desired target, and this forms the target line. The base piece has multiple holes for a third alignment rod to be inserted. This third rod provides a golfer with a ball, clubface, and hand position indicator. A golfer uses the base piece to align their body up parallel with the target line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Inventor: Corey KRONZER
  • Patent number: 8834287
    Abstract: The present invention is a golf swing training aid having a takeaway bar, a spine angle alignment guide, a position “A” bar, and a hands placement guide. The takeaway bar may be connected adjacent an end of the spine alignment guide. The apparatus is adjustable, and is suitable for practicing with every club in the bag, from the driver to the putter to improve distance and consistency. The apparatus may be used on the ground or a mat at a driving range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: W. Reid
    Inventor: Worrell A. Reid
  • Patent number: 8328655
    Abstract: A golf training aid having an alignment rod rotatably mounted to an elongated rail. The rail is pointed directly at the target while the rod is rotated and positioned along the rail pointing directly to the ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventor: Robert L Stroble
  • Patent number: 8246482
    Abstract: A golf swing stance trainer has a hub and a central telescoping arm connected to the hub. Side telescoping arms are connected to the hub for swinging outward to positions perpendicular to the central arm. The hub has ground-engaging cleats on a lower surface. The central arm is selectively extended outward for position with respect to a ball position. The side arms are selectively extended outward to indicate desired foot positions. Arm extensions are related to an individual user and club selection. The arms are telescoped inward and the side arms are swung inward for carrying. The hub includes a hinge rod with a central receive through which a connected on the central arm slides. The hinge rod has slots and holes through the slots at opposite ends. Side arm ends have complementary holes. Pins or screws extend through the holes, and washers allow turning the arms on the pins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Inventor: Richard Kim
  • Patent number: 8227553
    Abstract: The invention provides a rubber composition for golf balls which includes a base rubber, (B) a metal salt of an unsaturated carboxylic acid and/or an unsaturated carboxylic acid and zinc oxide, (C) an organic peroxide, and (D) from 0.1 to 5 parts by weight of a metal salt of a thiol having the general formula (R—S)nM (wherein R is a monovalent hydrocarbon group having from 12 to 30 carbons, exclusive of aromatic groups; n is an integer such as 1, 2 or 3; and M is a metal) per 100 parts by weight of the base rubber. The golf ball-forming rubber composition of the invention is suitable for pressure molding and has an excellent productivity because it does not lower the rate of vulcanization. The golf ball of the invention, which is formed using the composition, is endowed with an excellent rebound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Bridgestone Sports Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yuichiro Ozawa
  • Patent number: 8221271
    Abstract: A stance and rotational swing training device is provided. The device comprises a base with a front foot stop adjustably attached to a top surface of the base for receiving a user's front foot. The user's back foot is received by a rotatable foot pedal rotatably attached to the top surface of the base. The rotatable foot pedal comprises a circular base with a peripheral toe stop that prevents the user's toes from sliding off the foot pedal. An angled riser is rigidly affixed to the top surface of the base adjacent to the foot pedal. The riser guides the heel end of the user's back foot and forces the heel to rise as the user swings a sporting implement, such as a baseball bat or golf club.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventor: Matthew S. McIntyre
  • Patent number: 8065105
    Abstract: A system including a platform having a receptacle adapted to a bottom of a shoe or foot; securing mechanism, associated therewith; a sole for contacting a ground surface; a mechanism associated with the sole and a platform bottom, including: motor and a thrusting element, activated by the motor, the thrusting element adapted to move between the sole and the platform to apply an upward force against the platform bottom, thereby changing a platform height with respect to the sole; a sensor device adapted to associate with a lower limb, and to produce a locomotion data signal, and a microprocessor, operatively connected to the sensor device and motor, adapted to: receive locomotion information based on the signal; process the locomotion information to determine a locomotion phase, and control a timing of the mechanism, based on the determination, to change the height during a locomotion swing phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Step of Mind Ltd.
    Inventors: Simona Bar-Haim, Mark Belokopytov
  • Patent number: 8025588
    Abstract: A sports training device is provided that conveys a perceptible cue to a user indicative of a weight transfer event for evaluating timing correctness of such weight transfer event. The device includes an enclosure having a base chamber defined therein and top wall upon which a user stands or places a foot during use. The enclosure flexes or deforms during use, while an amount of user weight supported by the enclosure changes. As the enclosure flexes or deforms, the device conveys the perceptible cue as an audible and/or visual indication of, e.g., the initiate of the weight transfer event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Inventor: Michael A. Olson
  • Patent number: 8021242
    Abstract: The golf swing training device is used by golfers to gauge golf ball targeting and total body alignment. The golf swing training device comprises a device for teaching golfers seven golf swing fundamentals, including correct body alignment and ball targeting towards their desired target. The trainer has two tracks for alignment. These two tracks have graphical markings to assist the user in gauging the appropriate width of stance, ball position and shoulder alignment at address. The two tracks also form parallel targeting lines extending from the base of the trainer out to the desired target. First and second side pieces wrap around the user to form a trapezoidal frame. The side pieces are graphically marked to assist the user with hip, waist and leg alignment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventor: James Darrin Tennison
  • Patent number: 7997996
    Abstract: Described is a swing training device comprising a first foot plate, a second of foot plate, a connector connecting the first foot plate to the second foot plate, a first foot pad pivotably mounted on the first foot plate, and a second foot pad pivotably mounted on the second foot plate. The swing training device may be useful for teaching balance and developing core muscles used while swinging a sporting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Inventor: Joseph Lagano
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7955181
    Abstract: Device for practicing a sequence of movement in the golf swing, includes a base, and a first support, that is mounted on the base in a manner such that it can pivot about a first vertical axis and is intended for a golf player to place a first foot onto the first support which has a first supporting part for supporting the front part of the foot and a second supporting part that can be pivoted about a horizontal axis and is intended for supporting the heel of the first foot, a guide device is provided which is arranged on the base in a manner such that it at least partially surrounds the first vertical axis and which exhibits a curved design which rises from a lowermost point and which supports the second supporting part, and a second support is provided for the golf player to place his second foot on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Inventors: Andrea Drollinger, Frank Drollinger
  • Patent number: 7922598
    Abstract: A golfer alignment system for efficiently assisting a golfer in aligning their golf club and body properly while hitting a golf ball. The golfer alignment system generally includes a first alignment member comprised of an elongated configuration, a second alignment member comprised of an elongated configuration, wherein the second alignment member is substantially parallel to the first alignment member and at least one diagonal member attached between the first alignment member and the second alignment member. The diagonal member is attached in an oblique configuration with respect to the first alignment member and the second alignment member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Inventors: Steven D. Karpyak, Dale E. Karpyak
  • Patent number: 7914392
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a golf practice system having a practice mat and first and second alignment devices. The first alignment device has a first light emitting device rotatably attached to a first housing and rotatable about a vertical axis. The first alignment device is secured proximate a first side of the mat. The first light emitting device projects a first light beam in a straight line extending outwardly in an adjustably selected first direction and defines a first visible reference line. The second alignment device has a second light emitting device rotatably attached to a second housing and rotatable about a vertical axis. The second alignment device is secured proximate a second side of the mat. The second light emitting device projects a second light beam in a straight line extending outwardly in an adjustably selected second direction and defines a second visible reference line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Deane O. Elliott
  • Patent number: 7874930
    Abstract: The present golf swing training tool assists a golfer in learning the correct swing path the club head should follow during a normal golf swing, in order to consistently hit the ball in the desired direction, by providing a direct visual prompt of the proper club head swing path during each swing of the golf club. The tool may be used indoors or outdoors and is very portable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Inventor: Bruce Hubley
  • Publication number: 20100317452
    Abstract: Described is a swing training device comprising a first foot plate, a second of foot plate, a connector connecting the first foot plate to the second foot plate, a first foot pad pivotably mounted on the first foot plate, and a second foot pad pivotably mounted on the second foot plate. The swing training device may be useful for teaching balance and developing core muscles used while swinging a sporting device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: JOSEPH LAGANO
  • Patent number: 7775900
    Abstract: A golfer alignment system for efficiently assisting a golfer in aligning their golf club and body properly while hitting a golf ball. The golfer alignment system generally includes a first alignment member comprised of an elongated configuration, a second alignment member comprised of an elongated configuration, wherein the second alignment member is substantially parallel to the first alignment member and at least one diagonal member attached between the first alignment member and the second alignment member. The diagonal member is attached in an oblique configuration with respect to the first alignment member and the second alignment member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Inventors: Steven D. Karpyak, Dale E. Karpyak
  • Patent number: 7766758
    Abstract: A golf training device (100) includes first and second positioning members (110, 120) movably attached to a planar base portion (101). The first and second positioning members (110, 120) are movable from a stowed configuration to a pitch and chip shot setup configuration. The first and second positioning members (110, 120) include one or more indicia (114, 124) for positioning one or more golf balls (20) when moved to the shot setup configuration. The first and second positioning members (110, 120) position the one or more golf balls (20) a predetermined distance from an edge (103) of the device (100). The first positioning member (110) positions one or more golf balls (20) a first predetermined distance (D1) from the device (100) corresponding to a pitch shot. The second positioning member (120) positions one or more golf balls (20) a second predetermined distance (D2) from the device (100) corresponding to a chip shot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Inventor: Stephen W. Clark
  • Patent number: 7758443
    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 front attachment module having two adjustable swing plane tubes is removably attached to the base module front, said swing plane tubes being vertically and angularly adjustable. A putting module having an adjustable putter shaft slide is removably attached to the base module front, said putter shaft slide being vertically and horizontally adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Inventor: David D. Ford
  • 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: 7716859
    Abstract: A golf club bag tag contains a tag body, a connection element, and at least a golf tool such as a divot repair tool or a golf ball marker. The tag body has a first major surface with an indentation for the embedment of the golf tool. The tag body could be hung on a golf club bag or a waist belt of a golfer by the connection element so that the golfer would not forget to bring the golf tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Dragonseas & Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yin-Hai Chen
  • Publication number: 20100062871
    Abstract: Device for practicing a sequence of movement in the golf swing, includes a base, and a first support, that is mounted on the base in a manner such that it can pivot about a first vertical axis and is intended for a golf player to place a first foot onto the first support which has a first supporting part for supporting the front part of the foot and a second supporting part that can be pivoted about a horizontal axis and is intended for supporting the heel of the first foot, a guide device is provided which is arranged on the base in a manner such that it at least partially surrounds the first vertical axis and which exhibits a curved design which rises from a lowermost point and which supports the second supporting part, and a second support is provided for the golf player to place his second foot on.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventors: Andrea Drollinger, Frank Drollinger
  • Patent number: 7575522
    Abstract: A golf setup training device for training a golfer to take the best possible setup in relation to a ball when addressing the ball prior to hitting the ball. The device includes a pair of axially aligned foot-positioning bars and extending therefrom at right angles a ball-positioning bar that includes a fixed section and an extendable section. The extendable section is adjustably mounted to the fixed section to adjust the length of the ball-positioning bar according to the height of the golfer and/or for a chosen iron. The device may be easily partially disassembled for compact storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Inventor: Joseph A. Affrunti
  • 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: 7261640
    Abstract: The invention relates to a golf stance aid for a golfer. It includes a foot alignment member along which the golfer's feet align. There is a ball alignment member that is parallel to the foot alignment member and along which a golf ball aligns. There is also a first connection member and a second connection member. These connection members pivotally connect the foot alignment member and the ball alignment member to form an adjustable parallelogram structure. There is a measuring member which attaches to the ball alignment member. The measuring member spans the distance between the foot alignment member and the ball alignment member. The measuring member has means for retaining indicia for recording changes in distance between the golf ball as aligned with the ball alignment member and the golfer's feet as aligned with the foot alignment member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Inventor: Preston Baggott
  • Patent number: 7238118
    Abstract: A foldable golf swing training aid for use by a right-handed golfer and a left-handed golfer. A base receives a golf tee and includes a pair of members pivotally attached to each other so as to allow the base to be foldable. A pair of arms are pivotally attached to ends of the base, respectively, so as to allow the pair of arms to be foldabe. The pair of arms extend perpendicularly to the base in opposite directions to each other when in a use position, and overly associated base members when in the stored position. Indicia aids in positioning the base and the pair of arms relative to the right-handed golfer and the left-handed golfer, and corresponds to numbers of a clock including one, five, six, seven, and eleven.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventor: Timothy T. Terrill
  • Patent number: 7226402
    Abstract: An exercise device for exercising the major muscle groups of the middle and lower torso. The exercise device has a self-standing framework that includes a vertical post. A cross beam is provided that has two ends and a middle section. The middle section of the cross beam is connected to the vertical post with a pivot connection. The pivot connection enables the cross beam to move relative to the vertical post throughout a predetermined range of motion. A person exercises by grabbing and pulling a handle. The handle is attached to at least one resistance element. By adjusting the orientation of the cross beam, the handles and resistance elements can be selectively positioned at various heights and at various offset orientations relative to a support platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Inventor: Pedro Flores Joya
  • Patent number: 7163464
    Abstract: A novel system and method for controlling and stabilizing the swing mechanics of a golfer is disclosed. More specifically, a system for and method of stabilizing the right knee (the left knee for left handed golfers) of a golfer such that a critical knee flexion angle is maintained throughout the golf swing, the weight of the golfer is properly transferred, and the right hand side (left hand side for left handed golfers) is properly loaded for a reliable, consistent, controlled, and safe golf swing. The system and method further comprise use of a putting attachment that can be removably secured to a primary apparatus for controlling a golfer's stance through all phases of a putting stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Inventor: Brian P. McKeon
  • Patent number: 7066827
    Abstract: A golf training apparatus to help golfers hit a golf ball more effectively and consistently. The apparatus includes a base with first markings along a first edge thereof to indicate positions for locating a golfer's feet adjacent the base, and second markings along an oppositely-disposed second edge of the base for indicating the location of a golf ball relative to the base. The apparatus further has an alignment member mounted for movement relative to the base and configured for selective alignment with any one of the second markings. A measuring member is mounted to the alignment member for measuring the distance between the base and the golf ball, and a light-generating device is mounted to the base for illuminating the golf ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Kevin Lamar Stringer
  • Patent number: 7025689
    Abstract: An adjustable swing training aid for training an athlete to perform a desired swing. The swing training aid includes an adjustable stand having a pad connector; and a swing pad having an attachment spot for attaching the swing pad to the adjustable stand. The stand adjusts to move the swing pad into a desired position. The adjustable stand can include a base, a first arm of variable length, a second arm of variable length, a first adjustable connector, and a second adjustable connector. The first arm is coupled to the base. The first connector couples the first arm and the second arm, and adjusts the angle therebetween. The second arm is rotateable about the base. The second connector couples the second arm to the swing pad and adjusts the angle therebetween. The swing pad preferably includes a plurality of attachment spots for connecting to the pad connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventor: Mark Steven Infalt
  • Patent number: 6982301
    Abstract: A golf ball comprising a solid core and a cover disposed about the core, wherein the core is formed from a polybutadiene blend comprising a) a first polybutadiene having a first Mooney viscosity between about 50 and about 150, and b) a second polybutadiene having a second Mooney viscosity between about 30 and about 100, wherein the first Mooney viscosity is greater than the second Mooney viscosity, and wherein the blend has a greater weight percentage of the first polybutadiene than that of the second polybutadiene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Acushnet Company
    Inventors: Peter R. Voorheis, Samuel A. Pasqua, Jr., Michael J. Sullivan, David A. Bulpett, Derek A. Ladd
  • Patent number: 6869371
    Abstract: A leg positioning and training device for a golfer is disclosed. The device is characterized by the structure including platform having a foot base plate rotatably mounted thereon for the golf's rear foot, wherein the foot base plate is adjustable in two planes. The footbase plate includes a segment that extends upwardly from the base plate in receiving relation to the user's foot and ankle, and this segment is angularly adjustable with respect to a plane that is substantially normal to the foot base plate. A strain gauge is operatively attached to that segment for receiving and measuring force applied by the user, and a display indicator is provided in operative connection to the strain gauge, whereby the user may see a representation of the force applied thereto during a golf swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Inventor: Jack Perry
  • Patent number: 6726576
    Abstract: A guide assists a golfer to assume a proper golf swing stance. A coupling joins first and second elongated members with their axes in perpendicular relationship. The second member overlies the first. The coupling is slidably disposed on the first member and the second member is slidably disposed on the coupling. The first member provides a visual aid for the alignment of the golfer's feet parallel to an imaginary target line and the second member provides a visual aid positioning the ball in the stance and for squaring the face of the club to the ball at the point of impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Inventor: Samuel D. Froggatte
  • Patent number: 6669575
    Abstract: An improved golf training aid for right handed or left handed golfers that conditions the golfer through repetition and muscle memory to hit straight shots, controlled fade shots in varying degrees, and controlled draw shots in varying degrees without the need to use different golf swings for each shot or a different grip for each shot. The target arrow (12) is aimed at a chosen target and held into place by means of spikes (16). The invention aligns the golfers feet correctly for each shot by means of a body alignment shaft (60) and positions the golf ball correctly in relation to the golfers stance by means of a heel alignment block (50). The distance the golfers feet are from the ball is set by moving the heel alignment block (50) and the body alignment shaft (60) assembly either up or down the shot selection indicator shaft (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Inventor: Walter Terry Marlette
  • Patent number: 6500075
    Abstract: A golf training system which utilizes a pair of hinged panels which are placed on the practice surface at a selected angularity in an inverted “V” to provide a reference for club path, stance and ball position to teach the student a repeatable proper swing. Preferably one of the sides of the panels carry grid-like indicia and the opposite sides only a ball position marked. The teaching method employs the panels and the position and angularity of the panels may be varied in accordance with the type of golf shot and physical characteristics of the golf student. For more advanced student, the panels are reversed so the sides substantially devoid of marking are displayed. The system may be used to teach virtually all golf shots including putting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: GDP, LLC
    Inventor: Charles J. McDevitt
  • Patent number: 6422872
    Abstract: A balance platform for teaching a batter a desired shift in weight associated with the act of swinging a bat. The platform includes a calibrated support surface, a pivot leg connected to an underside of the support surface, and a support leg connected to the underside of the support surface at a rearward end thereof. When used to teach a batter to shift body weight an appropriate amount to achieve a predetermined weight distribution during the stride phase associated with a batting swing, the stance distance and average stride length of the batter is measured and is utilized to determine the desired positioning of the batter on the balance platform. The batter is thereafter positioned atop the balance platform such that a rear foot of the batter is positioned a predetermined distance behind the center of mass of the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Inventor: James F. Outlaw
  • Patent number: 6394916
    Abstract: A method and device for marking and keeping track of the correct location of a golf ball. The marking device includes a two-sided body, with the first side displaying an indication to play the ball from the present location of the marker and the second side displaying an indication to remark the location of the ball before it is played, and a means of securing the body to the ground. The method utilizes the two-sided body to remind a golfer of the correct position of his or her ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: James Doucettperry
  • Publication number: 20020032072
    Abstract: The Wunder Wedje Golf System gives the average golfer for the first time, a simple and efficient tool to quickly and easily overcome some of the basic problems that hinder the golfer. It allows the golfer to utilize practice methods used by professionals in a simple and easy way to get the most out. It also allows the golfer to maintain consistent foot and ball position. It is a teaching and practice system that at a minimum would not hurt the golfer's game, but almost certainly would improve it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Publication date: March 14, 2002
    Inventor: Dennis Sladek
  • Patent number: 6142883
    Abstract: The golf alignment device of this invention is an adjustable frame, comprising a first side of said frame marked with indicia for positioning the forward foot of the golfer and being marked with indicia for placement of the rear foot according to the club to be used; a slotted second side of the frame extending from the end of the first side of the frame nearest the forward foot, which second side bears indicia for placement of the golf ball; a slotted third side extending from the other end of the first side; a fourth side joined to the ends of the second and third sides to form a frame; a first ball marker arm extending from the second side and within the frame, which arm is perpendicular to the second side and a pivotal second marker arm extending within the frame from the first side, the second marker arm being disposed such that an imaginary line extending from the center of its terminal end within the frame intersects a point just beyond the terminal end of the first marker arm situated within the frame
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Inventor: Joseph Ferrara
  • Patent number: 6106408
    Abstract: A golf stance training device comprises an elongated base strip and foot guide means extending rearwardly from said base strip and adapted to guide the placement of the front foot of a golfer. A lateral strip has one end adjustably pivotally connected to the front end of the base strip and extends laterally forwardly therefrom. A forwardly outwardly inclined diagonal strip is connected the other end of said lateral strip, with the lateral strip being adjustably moveable along said diagonal strip. A ball positioning strip, when in use, is fixed to the front end of said diagonal strip at a predetermined angle and extends rearwardly to establish a ball placement position. The lateral strip is adjustable with respect to the base strip and the diagonal strip so as to adjust the device for use by golfers of different heights. The ball positioning strip is substantially parallel to the base strip for all adjusted positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Inventor: Leonard W. Roman
  • Patent number: 6093110
    Abstract: A golf training kit for helping a golfer improve his or her overall game by helping improve alignment, putting stroke, pitching and chipping, and ball position. The inventive device includes a circular target, a line and putting guide, a putter trainer guide, a golf hole backstop that is positionable within a golf hole, an alignment guide that is adapted for illustrating proper ball placement for various shots, and an indoor putting ring adapted for securement to a carpeted surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Inventor: Robert Q. Jones
  • Patent number: 5984801
    Abstract: A portable golf training apparatus and method of use for teaching golfers the consistent achievement of proper ball placement, correct alignment, proper foot placement and stance, and for providing a visual reference or target line in relation to alignment and foot position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Robert B. Mason
  • Patent number: 5976026
    Abstract: Proper hitting techniques for baseball or for golf are taught and reinforced by forcing the hitter off balance if his or her foot placement, foot movement, or leg orientation are in error. A device includes a multipart base which has one part linearly adjustable with respect to the other parts, and another part angularly adjustable with respect to the other parts, as well as a back foot supporting element rotatably mounted on the base. The hitter is forced to stand on the back foot supporting element on the forefoot so his back foot heel is held off the ground. The device forces the user to pivot correctly during the swing, as well as forcing the user to stride and land his front foot on the device, also on the forefoot, to master this element in conjunction with the back foot pivot and swing of the bat. The device is amenable to use by both left and right handed hitters, and can be used in conjunction with both an open stance and a closed stance by either batter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventor: George A. Erb
  • Patent number: 5947832
    Abstract: A golf training aid for teaching an individual correct ball positioning when in a golfer's stance. The inventive device includes a pliable U-shaped member dimensioned for securement to a heel of a golfer's shoe. An aiming rod extends from the U-shaped member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventor: Raymond S. Gagne