Having Locator Means Patents (Class 473/353)
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Patent number: 7649467Abstract: When playing a sport it is generally difficult to localize (exactly) an accessory requirement for that sport at a determined point in time. The localizing of sports equipment may however be desired in particular situations, for instance to track down lost articles of sports equipment, or to be able to apply the rules of a sport in efficient manner. The invention therefore relates to a system for localizing sports equipment. The invention also relates to a method for localizing sports equipment using such a system.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2004Date of Patent: January 19, 2010Assignee: Eyeon Trust B.V.Inventors: Martijn Schimmer, George Johannes Ferdinandus Blom
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Patent number: 7649466Abstract: In particular situations it may be desirable to follow, trace or otherwise localize specific (groups of) objects or animals, in particular people. The invention relates to a localization system. The invention also relates to a method for localizing objects or animals using such a localization system.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2004Date of Patent: January 19, 2010Assignee: Eyeon Trust B.V.Inventors: Martijn Schimmer, George Johannes Ferdinandus Blom
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Publication number: 20090291776Abstract: A golf ball has a core, a conductive paint layer coated on the surface of the core, a reflective layer formed by electroplating a bright thin surface metal layer on the conductive paint layer and a transparent layer formed on the reflective layer. When the golf ball is hit, the light projection to the golf ball is reflected by the reflective layer to look more brilliant. The reflective layer is protected by the transparent layer without damaging after the golf ball is hit. It also makes discerning of the flying distance and dropping location of the golf ball easier.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 4, 2009Publication date: November 26, 2009Inventor: Stuart LIN
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Publication number: 20090253526Abstract: Monitoring of a golf ball and apparatus for doing so is described using differential time locating. Launch parameters of a golf ball can be characterized independent of any specific positional measurement on the basis of a ball signal that is transmitted from the ball. These parameters include initial spin, initial velocity, and initial trajectory. Ground proximity detection is described as well as a landing position and rollout position detection technique and associated apparatus. Calibration techniques are described for various kinds of range receivers that subsequently receive the ball signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 31, 2009Publication date: October 8, 2009Inventors: Larry J. Koudele, Guy R. Wagner
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Publication number: 20090137340Abstract: Disclosed are a ball for use in a sporting activity, and a tracking system for tracking the ball. The ball comprises a microchip embedded in the ball. The microchip is adapted to transmit an information specific to a location of the ball to the tracking system. The tracking system is configured to locate the ball based on the information specific to the spatial location of the ball.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 28, 2007Publication date: May 28, 2009Inventor: Calvin Small
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Publication number: 20090062033Abstract: A light-emitting golf ball is provided. The light-emitting golf ball is characterized in that hemispherical first hollow portions extend from the surface toward the center of a core, second hollow portions having a diameter less than that of the first hollow portions extend from bottom zones of the first hollow portions toward the center of the core, narrow holes extend through the core from the second hollow portions to portions of the core that are opposed to the second hollow portions, a ball body includes a transparent cover layer extending over the core surface, chemical light-emitting bodies include sealed vessels made of a flexible transparent material, the sealed vessels have cylindrical portions and round light-emitting portions having a diameter greater than that of the cylindrical portions, the cylindrical portions are tightly fit in the second hollow portions, and the light-emitting portions are fit in the first hollow portions.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2005Publication date: March 5, 2009Applicant: LUMICA CORPORATIONInventor: Shiro Harada
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Publication number: 20090003136Abstract: Electrical power can be generated from impact based energy, such as from a golf ball being struck by a golf club. One or more piezo-electric devices, which are embedded in the core of the golf ball, are stressed by the impact and generate energy. Each piezo-electric device generates energy when stressed, which is then rectified and stored in a capacitor circuit. The stored energy in the capacitor circuit is used to power a transmitter to emit energy via an antenna, including all necessary electronics such as an oscillator, a modulator, and various control and logic circuits. The transmitted signals can be received by a hand held locator device. The described impact generated energy powers the transmitter a sufficiently long amount of time for the golfer to locate the golf ball. The impact based energy generation can also be used for other non-golf applications.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2007Publication date: January 1, 2009Inventor: Lawrence J. Karr
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Publication number: 20070173349Abstract: A light emitting golf ball, light emitting golf ball kit, and a light emitting golf ball system. The light emitting golf ball includes a substantially spherical outer shell manufactured of a material that allows light to pass therethrough. A light assembly is disposed within said outer shell and adapted to produce light that passes through the outer shell. The light assembly includes a light source, a battery, and a magnetic switch that stops a flow of power to from the battery to the light source when in the presence of a magnetic field and allows power to flow from the battery to the light source when the ball is removed from the magnetic field. The kit includes the ball and a ball holder having a magnet attached thereto. The system includes a plurality of balls and a container having at least one magnet.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 24, 2007Publication date: July 26, 2007Inventors: Wing S. Eng, Sharon A. Eng
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Patent number: 7207902Abstract: An apparatus for locating a golf ball during play of a golf game includes a golf ball having a passive transmitter and a mechanism for sensing environmental conditions positioned therein. The apparatus further includes a mechanism for determining and providing a location of the golf ball. A hand-held unit is further provided. The hand held unit includes a mechanism for enabling at least one of the passive transmitter and the environmental sensing mechanism contained within the golf ball. A receiver is contained within the hand-held unit for receiving a location signal from the determining and providing mechanisms. A mechanism positioned on the hand-held unit for indicating to a golfer the location of the golf ball. Upon the location being indicated, the environmental sensing mechanism is able to selectively determine conditions corresponding to the location and provide the conditions to the hand-held unit for further indication to golfer.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2004Date of Patent: April 24, 2007Inventor: Thomas B Hamlin
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Patent number: 7156754Abstract: A light-emitting golf ball for use in the dark, comprises a spherical body made from a transparent material with an outer casing, and light-emitting means containing chemiluminescent components made from a chemiluminescent material, which components emit light once they have been mixed with one another. The spherical body is provided with a cavity in which there are compartments which are separated from one another by a partition element. One of the chemiluminescent components is accommodated in each compartment. The partition element is of frangible design, in such a manner that an impact load exerted on the outer casing causes the partition element to break, after which the chemiluminescent components can mix with one another.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2003Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Golf Art Innovation N.V.Inventors: Ruud Dijkgraaf, Ger Moot
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Patent number: 7059974Abstract: A golf ball having an identification device (10) embedded in it comprises an aerial (14) and a coded chip (12), which are associated with a resilient member (16) arranged to dampen shock form impact. The resilient members is in the form of a diaphragm (16), to which the chip (12) and aerial (14) are separately connected. The above components, mounted on an insulating plate (11), are moulded in a capsule (20) which is then placed at the center of a golf ball core.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2000Date of Patent: June 13, 2006Assignee: World Golf Systems Ltd.Inventors: Steven P. Golliffe, David V. Jolliffe, Geoffrey Emmerson
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Patent number: 6908404Abstract: The present invention discloses a positioning system for determining the position of a golf ball. The golf ball positioning system includes a golf ball having a first transmitter positioned therein for transmitting a position signal. The system further includes a detection until having a first processor, a first receiver and a display. The first receiver and display are both connected to the first processor. The position signal is transmitted by the transmitter and is received by the first receiver and processed by the first processor. Upon processing the position signal, directional instructions are generated for display on the display and provide aid to the user in locating the position of the golf ball.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2003Date of Patent: June 21, 2005Inventor: Adam Gard
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Patent number: 6878076Abstract: A golf ball is provided which changes color or other indicia after exposure to moisture to indicate that the ball may not have predictable flight characteristics which may result in loss of carry and roll. In one embodiment, a microencapsulated dye layer is formed immediately below the final gloss coat, with controlled dye release causing a stained look to the ball after significant exposure to moisture. In another embodiment, the dye or ink is provided in pelletized form for ease of manufacture. In other embodiments, a dye, ink, or chemical is compounded with other materials and introduced into or applied onto the golf balls composite materials in a solid, liquid, or gaseous form. In still other embodiments imprints on the ball are made with a water activated ink which either appears or disappears upon the exposure of the golf ball to moisture.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2003Date of Patent: April 12, 2005Assignee: Performance Indicator, LLCInventor: Robert T. Winskowicz
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Patent number: 6862984Abstract: A method and device for marking golf balls that allows for the placement of a putting directional indicator (PDI) along the dynamic axis of a ball. While golfers could use the device to mark individual balls after they have been purchased (i.e. after they already have marks on them from the manufacturer), in preferred embodiments, the PDI is applied at the manufacturing stage and/or before the ball has other markings placed upon it. While the PDI could simply consist of one or more lines, in a preferred embodiment, the putting directional indicator may serve as an identifying mark for a manufacturer, distributor or consumer and may be designed to incorporate letters, words, symbols, short sentences, names, initials, numbers, images and photographs.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2004Date of Patent: March 8, 2005Inventor: Howard Sosin
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Publication number: 20040266554Abstract: Disclosed is a photoluminescent golf ball with a one- or multi-piece structure, which comprises an encapsulated photoluminescent composition. The golf ball is clearly visualized at night and under overcast conditions, so that it can be easily found where it lands after tee shots or fairway shots. Additionally, the golf ball has excellent mechanical properties including surface smoothness, driver distance and strength, and offers improved luminescent properties including brightness and decay luminance. Additionally, the photoluminescent pigment has better physical and chemical compatibility with constituent materials of a golf ball, providing a more durable ball than is achieved with conventional photoluminescent pigments.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2004Publication date: December 30, 2004Inventors: Y. H. Park, K. J. Kang, G. H. Lee, J. K. Moon, C. B. Ryu
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Publication number: 20040266553Abstract: Disclosed is a photochromic golf ball with a one- or multi-piece structure, which comprises a photochromic compound. The photochromic golf ball reversibly changes between two different color states according to exposure to U.V. radiation associated with direct sunlight. The photochromic golf ball is white when it is shielded from direct sunlight, but changes in color when it is directly exposed to direct sunlight. In a golf ball structure having a core, an outer cover, and a transparent coating, the photochromic compound is present either in the outer cover or the transparent coating.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2004Publication date: December 30, 2004Inventors: Y. H. Park, K. J. Kang, G. H. Lee, J. K. Moon, C. B. Ryu
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Publication number: 20040266555Abstract: Disclosed is a thermochromic golf ball with a one- or multi-piece structure, which comprises a thermochromic compound. The thermochromic golf ball reversibly changes between two different color states with temperature. The thermochromic golf ball may be white when it is warmed to higher than a thermochromic temperature point, but shows a characteristic color when it is cooled to lower than the point. In a two-piece or three-piece ball, the thermochromic compound is present in either the outer cover or a transparent coat applied to the cover. The thermochromic pigment changes color when a critical point temperature is reached, thereby alerting the golfer that the current temperature of the golf ball may have power performance characteristics.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2004Publication date: December 30, 2004Inventors: Y. H. Park, K. J. Kang, G. H. Lee, J. K. Moon, C. B. Ryu
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Publication number: 20040224791Abstract: Golf Boll Finder [GBF] is used to locate lost golf ball with in 26 feet of the lying golf ball. The product will have two parts, Golf balls with transmitter inside or metal paint on the outside and locations devices that will be hand-held. Hand held device would have lights and sound so as the device gets closer to the golf ball the device will get brighter and louder. This device has a diameter of 26 feet limit of sensing the golf ball. This product will meet all standard for the PGA and will be sold worldwide. We may different manufactures of the golf ball besides our self's.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2003Publication date: November 11, 2004Inventors: Carl Jay Rotella, Frank DeMatteo
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Publication number: 20040142766Abstract: Golf balls and a system for finding golf balls and methods for making golf balls and methods for using such balls. In the case of one exemplary golf ball, the ball includes a shell and a core material which is encased in the shell and a tag which is disposed within the core material and which has at least one perforation. The tag includes a diode and an antenna which are coupled together. Another exemplary golf ball includes a shell and a core material which is encased within the shell and a tag which is within the core material and which includes an electrical element which is coupled to an antenna; the tag is detectable over a range of at least 20 feet from a handheld device, and the golf ball has high durability and substantially complies with the golf ball specifications of the United States Golf Association.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2003Publication date: July 22, 2004Inventors: Chris Savarese, Lauro C. Cadorniga, Forrest F. Fulton, Noel H.C. Marshall, John Glissman, Kenneth P. Gilliland, Marvin L. Vickers, Gerald Latus
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Patent number: 6742449Abstract: A method and device for marking golf balls that allows for the placement of a putting directional indicator (PDI) along the dynamic axis of a ball. While golfers could use the device to mark individual balls after they have been purchased (i.e. after they already have marks on them from the manufacturer), in preferred embodiments, the PDI is applied at the manufacturing stage and/or before the ball has other markings placed upon it. While the PDI could simply consist of one or more lines, in a preferred embodiment, the putting directional indicator may serve as an identifying mark for a manufacturer, distributor or consumer and may be designed to incorporate letters, words, symbols, short sentences, names, initials, numbers, images and photographs.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Inventor: Howard Sosin
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Publication number: 20040058753Abstract: A golf ball is provided which changes color or other indicia after exposure to moisture to indicate that the ball may not have predictable flight characteristics which may result in loss of carry and roll. In one embodiment, a microencapsulated dye layer is formed immediately below the final gloss coat, with controlled dye release causing a stained look to the ball after significant exposure to moisture. In another embodiment, the dye or ink is provided in pelletized form for ease of manufacture. In other embodiments, a dye, ink, or chemical is compounded with other materials and introduced into or applied onto the golf balls composite materials in a solid, liquid, or gaseous form. In still other embodiments imprints on the ball are made with a water activated ink which either appears or disappears upon the exposure of the golf ball to moisture.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2003Publication date: March 25, 2004Applicant: Performance Indicator, LLCInventor: Robert T. Winskowicz
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Publication number: 20040058749Abstract: The present invention provides a system for locating lost golf balls which includes a golf ball that incorporates an array of passive transponders and a radio frequency (“RF”) transmitter/receiver capable of energizing the passive transponder array and of detecting a signal emitted by the array. Each passive transponder functions as a tuned LC circuit that is charged by the RF transponder/receiver and emits an RF signal, detectable by the RF transmitter/receiver, for a finite period of time after the RF transmitter/receiver is turned off.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2003Publication date: March 25, 2004Inventors: Anthony J. Pirritano, Raymond Imblum, Thomas R. Pierce
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Publication number: 20040053708Abstract: The invention is directed to a golf ball including a core and a cover, wherein at least one of the core or the cover includes a radioluminescent material; and, additionally, a golf ball including a core having a diameter of between about 1.5 and 1.59; a cover containing a radioluminescent powder, and a thermoplastic material. The radioluminescent powder is present in an amount sufficient to emanate light without activation with UV or visible light.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2002Publication date: March 18, 2004Inventor: Edmund A. Hebert
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Publication number: 20040048686Abstract: A device (80) for reading a coded golf ball (40) comprises a helical track (82) on the inside or outside of a cylindrical housing (81), the track serving to change the orientation of the ball relative to an antenna coil (85) to ensure that the code is read. The track may be arranged horizontally and rotated by a motor; a flap (30) may be provided to avoid balls following each other too closely onto the helical track. Alternatively the track may be arranged vertically and the balls may fall under gravity.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2003Publication date: March 11, 2004Inventors: John S. Thirkettle, David V. Jolliffe
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Patent number: 6702292Abstract: A game ball system is presented including a ball, a means for position sensing for determining and producing information regarding the ball's position, an input device to receive user input, a processor connected with the means for position sensing and the input device to receive the information representing ball's position. The processor is also configured to receive the user input, and to process the information representing the ball's position and the user input according to a set of game rules to generate game output messages, which are outputted to the user via an output device in a user-understandable form. In operation, when a user tosses the ball upward, the processor receives a combination of user input and information about the ball's position, and processes them according to a set of game rules, providing feedback to the user regarding the game in the form of output messages from the output device.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventor: Gary S. Takowsky
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Publication number: 20040014536Abstract: A golf ball including a substantially spherical shaped body having a dimpled outer surface, a power source contained within the body, an electromagnetic signal transmitter coupled to the power source, a shock actuated switch contained within the body, and a timing device configured to control transmission of the electromagnetic signal for a predetermined time period after actuation of the switching device.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2003Publication date: January 22, 2004Applicant: OBLON, SPIVAK, McCLELLAND, MAIER & NEUSTADT, P.C.Inventor: Eckhard H. Kuesters
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Patent number: 6676544Abstract: A golf ball marking guide has opposing first and second body portions. Each body portion has opposing front and back ends and opposing top and bottom edges. The body portions also have a drawing slot positioned between the opposing top and bottom edges and extending at least partially between the front and back ends. The body portions also have generally spherical concave inner surfaces. A tab extends from the front of the first body portion in a direction generally away from the body portion back. Another tab extends from the front of the second body portion in a direction generally away from the body portion back. A connector is provided at the back of the first body portion. A cooperating connector is also provided at the back of the second body portion. The two connectors are coupled, one with the other, whereby the two body portions are aligned with each other, their inner surfaces face each other and define a spherical frustum, and the two tabs are aligned with each other.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2001Date of Patent: January 13, 2004Inventor: Charles R. Tyke
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Patent number: 6676538Abstract: A golf ball bearing a mark having superior durability and glittering in a gold color is provided. The mark is obtained by printing with use of the ink having a resin and a metal powder including particles each having a main body of copper and a copper-zinc alloy portion on a surface of the main body. The preferable metal powder has a mean particle diameter of at most 50 &mgr;m.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2001Date of Patent: January 13, 2004Assignee: Sumitomo Rubber Industries LimitedInventors: Kazuhiko Isogawa, Takashi Sasaki
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Publication number: 20030236136Abstract: A light-emitting golf ball for use in the dark, comprises a spherical body made from a transparent material with an outer casing, and light-emitting means containing chemiluminescent components made from a chemiluminescent material, which components emit light once they have been mixed with one another. The spherical body is provided with a cavity in which there are compartments which are separated from one another by a partition element. One of the chemiluminescent components is accommodated in each compartment. The partition element is of frangible design, in such a manner that an impact load exerted on the outer casing causes the partition element to break, after which the chemiluminescent components can mix with one another.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2003Publication date: December 25, 2003Applicant: Golf Art Innovation N.V.Inventors: Ruud Dijkgraaf, Ger Moot
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Publication number: 20030228934Abstract: Novel golf balls, golf ball cups, and golf ball reading devices are described. Embodiments of each include microprocessors, power sources, receive and transmit devices, and related circuitry for recording and transmitting information about the golf ball in play to the golf ball cup or reading device.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventors: Brian S. Corzilius, Luis A. Perez
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Patent number: 6634959Abstract: A golf ball locator system including a golf ball including an electromagnetic signal transmitter; at least two electromagnetic signal receivers configured to receive an electromagnetic signal transmitted by the golf ball; and a processor coupled to the receivers and configured to receive signals from the receivers, to determine a location of the golf ball using triangulation calculations, and to output at least one signal indicating the location of the golf ball in relation to a two-dimensional area including the location of the golf ball.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2001Date of Patent: October 21, 2003Assignee: Oblon, Spivak, McClelland, Maier & Neustadt, P.C.Inventor: Eckhard H. Kuesters
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Patent number: 6623382Abstract: A golf ball is provided which changes color or other indicia after exposure to moisture to indicate that the ball may not have predictable flight characteristics which may result in loss of carry and roll. In one embodiment, a microencapsulated dye layer is formed immediately below the final gloss coat, with controlled dye release causing a stained look to the ball after significant exposure to moisture. In another embodiment, the dye or ink is provided in pelletized form for ease of manufacture. In other embodiments, a dye, ink, or chemical is compounded with other materials and introduced into or applied onto the golf balls composite materials in a solid, liquid, or gaseous form. In still other embodiments imprints on the ball are made with a water activated ink which either appears or disappears upon the exposure of the golf ball to moisture.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2001Date of Patent: September 23, 2003Assignee: Performance Indicator, LLCInventor: Robert T. Winskowicz
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Patent number: 6620057Abstract: The present invention provides a system for locating lost golf balls which includes a golf ball that incorporates an array of passive transponders and a radio frequency (“RF”) transmitter/receiver capable of energizing the passive transponder array and of detecting a signal emitted by the array. Each passive transponder functions as a tuned LC circuit that is charged by the RF transponder/receiver and emits an RF signal, detectable by the RF transmitter/receiver, for a finite period of time after the RF transmitter/receiver is turned off.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 1999Date of Patent: September 16, 2003Assignee: Flite Traxx, Inc.Inventors: Anthony J. Pirritano, Raymond Imblum, Thomas R. Pierce
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Patent number: 6575842Abstract: A kit containing all the materials necessary to assemble a putting and chipping training unit that may be used in total darkness since a putting cup, golf balls, and direction labels for a golf club head are all equipped with phosphoric markings that glow in the dark for about eight hours before recharging is necessary by light exposure.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2001Date of Patent: June 10, 2003Inventor: David Tidwell
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Patent number: 6572492Abstract: A sound-producing golf ball includes an outer shell with a shock-absorbent inner housing having a rechargeable micro-battery positioned therein. A micro-generator coupled to a rotatably mounted shaft is positioned in the housing. A pendulum depending from the shaft is urged downwardly by gravity for rotating the shaft as the golf ball rolls while in play, thus generating electricity for recharging the micro-battery. A sound chip having a memory for storing audible messages is positioned in the housing along with a sound generator for audibilizing the messages when energized. The housing may include a receiver for receiving a signal from a transmitter for selectively energizing operation of the sound chip and sound generator. The housing presents a geodesic configuration and includes a plurality of interconnected tetrahedral structures for absorbing impact forces.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2001Date of Patent: June 3, 2003Inventor: William J. Tinsman
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Patent number: 6561923Abstract: The present invention provides a colored golf ball having soft and good shot feel at the time of hitting, and having excellent discriminability when used in bad weather or the winter season because of its vivid and deep color tone. The present invention relates to a colored golf ball comprising a core having at least one layer and a cover having at least one layer formed on the core, wherein the outermost layer of the cover contains 3.0 to 7.0 parts by weight of fluorescent pigment and 0.05 to 0.5 parts by weight of titanium dioxide, the cover being coated with one or more layers of clear coating, and the surface of the golf ball having an L*-value of 50 to 80, measured using a color difference meter.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 1999Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Keiji Ohama, Hidenori Hiraoka
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Patent number: 6536905Abstract: The optical filter enhances the visual perception of a stationary white object such as a golf ball to help a user to locate the object when lost. The filter attenuates light transmission for colors having wavelengths over 500 nanometer such as the light reflected by the vegetation, and transmits colors having shorter wavelengths such as the light reflected by the ball. The filter is worn in an eyeglass frame.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2001Date of Patent: March 25, 2003Inventors: Robert Alexander Gibb, Thomas John Chapman, Scott Percy Archie Leslie
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Patent number: 6524199Abstract: A system for locating a golf ball on a golf course by a golfer using a golf cart. The system includes a signal generator, a microchip, and an amplifier. The signal generator is connected to a portable computer on the golf cart and generates a first signal. The microchip is disposed in the golf ball and receives the first signal and generates a second signal in response thereto that is received by a base computer which triangulates the location of the golf ball off the locations of fixed objects on the golf course and generates a third signal in response thereto that is received by the portable computer which displays the location of the golf ball relative to the location of the golf cart already displayed. The amplifier is operatively connected to the portable computer and receives and amplifies the second signal that is to be received by the base computer.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2001Date of Patent: February 25, 2003Inventor: Cheryl Goldman
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Publication number: 20020177490Abstract: A new radio frequency identification (RFID) system identifying and locating golf balls in golf courses and driving ranges is described. The inventive device includes (1) golf balls each containing a passive RFID transponder with electronic bits of data (serial number) to uniquely identify said ball, (2) a wireless and/or wired grid of strategically located transceivers to transmit and receive electromagnetic signals to and from the passive transponder from said ball, (3) a computer server and/or database management system that maintains communication with the grid of transceivers and a database of the locations of golf balls and along with the number of golf strokes, and (4) hand held personal data assistant (PDA) for wireless communication with the computer server and/or database management system. The passive transponder, which has a very small mass and volume, is embedded in a golf ball.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2001Publication date: November 28, 2002Inventors: Yook-Kong Yong, Kenneth Yukou Lee, Joseph R. Stencel
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Patent number: 6482108Abstract: An ordinary golf ball is cleaned and then treated with an emulsion depositing in the dimples a hologram having the capacity to reflect a pre-selected wavelength of laser-beam. If a player temporarily looses such ball, a hand-held unit directs an infra-red laser beam of said pre-selected wavelength, desirably one not absorbed by atmospheric moisture, such as 1310 nm. Said hand-held unit contains an analyzer evaluating the light reflected back to such analyzer and attributable to such laser beam of said pre-selected wave-length. By evaluating the intensity of such reflected light, the golfer can target the location of the temporarily lost ball. Upon approaching the lost ball the angle at which the unit would be held would be modified for focusing on the lost ball. Earphones, meters, or other diagnostic equipment can monitor the intensity of the light reflected back from such laser beam.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 1999Date of Patent: November 19, 2002Assignee: Lost Item Retrieval System IncInventor: William E. McLaughlin
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Publication number: 20020098899Abstract: A water golf game comprising at least one floating portable green surrounded by at least one floating circle is disclosed. The floating green has a circle that sits on top of the green or is molded into the green. Both the floating circle and the circle on the green have lights so the game may be played at night.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2001Publication date: July 25, 2002Inventors: Corky Newcomb, Kenneth Strusz, Carmell Strusz
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Publication number: 20020098913Abstract: A system for locating a golf ball on a golf course by a golfer using a golf cart. The system includes a signal generator, a microchip, and an amplifier. The signal generator is connected to a portable computer on the golf cart and generates a first signal. The microchip is disposed in the golf ball and receives the first signal and generates a second signal in response thereto that is received by a base computer which triangulates the location of the golf ball off the locations of fixed objects on the golf course and generates a third signal in response thereto that is received by the portable computer which displays the location of the golf ball relative to the location of the golf cart already displayed. The amplifier is operatively connected to the portable computer and receives and amplifies the second signal that is to be received by the base computer.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 25, 2001Publication date: July 25, 2002Inventor: Cheryl Goldman
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Publication number: 20020091017Abstract: A golf ball locator system including a golf ball including an electromagnetic signal transmitter; at least two electromagnetic signal receivers configured to receive an electromagnetic signal transmitted by the golf ball; and a processor coupled to the receivers and configured to receive signals from the receivers, to determine a location of the golf ball using triangulation calculations, and to output at least one signal indicating the location of the golf ball in relation to a two-dimensional area including the location of the golf ball.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2001Publication date: July 11, 2002Applicant: OBLON, SPIVAK McCLELLAND, MAIER & NEUSTADT, P.C.Inventor: Eckhard H. Kuesters
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Publication number: 20020082120Abstract: An ordinary golf ball is cleaned and then heated with an emulsion depositing in the dimples a hologram having the capacity to reflect a pre-selected wavelength of laser-beam. If a player temporarily losses such ball, a hand-held unit directs an infra-red laser beam of said pre-selected wavelength, desirably one not absorbed by atmospheric moisture, such as 1310 nm. Said hand-held unit contains an analyzer evaluating the light reflected back to such analyzer and attributable to such laser bean of said pre-selected wave-length. By evaluating the intensity of such reflected light, the golfer can target the location of the temporarily lost ball. Upon approaching the lost ball the angle at which the unit would be held would be modified for focusing on the lost ball. Earphones, meters, or other diagnostic equipment can monitor the intensity of the light reflected back from such laser beam.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 2, 2001Publication date: June 27, 2002Inventor: William E. McLaughlin
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Publication number: 20020049100Abstract: A golf ball is provided which changes color or other indicia after exposure to moisture to indicate that the ball may not have predictable flight characteristics which may result in loss of carry and roll. In one embodiment, a microencapsulated dye layer is formed immediately below the final gloss coat, with controlled dye release causing a stained look to the ball after significant exposure to moisture. In another embodiment, the dye or ink is provided in pelletized form for ease of manufacture. In other embodiments, a dye, ink, or chemical is compounded with other materials and introduced into or applied onto the golf balls composite materials in a solid, liquid, or gaseous form. In still other embodiments imprints on the ball are made with a water activated ink which either appears or disappears upon the exposure of the golf ball to moisture.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2001Publication date: April 25, 2002Inventor: Robert T. Winskowicz
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Patent number: 6358160Abstract: A golf ball is provided which changes color or other indicia after significant immersion in water to indicate that the ball has been recovered from a water hazard and may not have predictable flight characteristics which may result in loss of carry and roll. In one embodiment, a microencapsulated dye layer is formed immediately below the final gloss coat, with controlled dye release causing a stained look to the ball after significant immersion in water. In another embodiment, the dye or ink is provided in pelletized form for ease of manufacture. In other embodiments, a dye, ink, or chemical is compounded with other materials and introduced into or applied onto the golf ball's composite materials in a solid, liquid, or gaseous form. In still other embodiments imprints on the ball are made with a water activated ink which either appears or disappears upon the immersion of the golf ball in water.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 1999Date of Patent: March 19, 2002Assignee: Performance Dynamics LLCInventor: Robert T. Winskowicz
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Patent number: 6277037Abstract: A golf ball is provided which changes color or other indicia after significant immersion in water to indicate that the ball has been recovered from a water hazard and may not have predictable flight characteristics which may result in loss of carry and roll. In one embodiment, a microencapsulated dye layer is formed immediately below the final gloss coat, with controlled dye release causing a stained look to the ball after significant immersion in water. In another embodiment, the dye or ink is provided in pelletized form for ease of manufacture. In other embodiments, a dye, ink, or chemical is. compounded with other materials and introduced into or applied onto the golf ball's composite materials in a solid, liquid, or gaseous form.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 1999Date of Patent: August 21, 2001Assignee: Performance Dynamics LLCInventors: Robert T. Winskowicz, Paula T. Hammond
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Patent number: 6257995Abstract: An illuminatable golf ball includes an outer translucent shell and an inner core portion surrounded by the outer shell. The ball includes a self-contained lighting device formed and contained at least in part within the inner core portion. The lighting device includes an energy source, a pair of lighting elements, and connectors extending between the energy source and the lighting elements defining an electrical circuit. The lighting device includes a switch for energizing and deenergizing the lighting device. The switch can include a plunger insertable into the ball through an opening in the outer shell and through a bore in the inner core portion. The plunger is configured to change the state of the electrical circuit when it is inserted into and removed from the bore to energize and deenergize the lighting elements. The switch can also be of the force actuatable type.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2000Date of Patent: July 10, 2001Assignee: Chemical Light, Inc.Inventors: Michael L. Schrimmer, Thomas Musial
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Patent number: 6244971Abstract: An apparatus for use in determining spin characteristics of an appropriately configured rotating object, such as a golf ball, includes a transmitter, a receiver, and a demodulator. The object is configured for reflecting radiation of at least a first frequency in a modulated fashion corresponding to at least one spin characteristic of the object. In this regard, an appropriately configured object may include at least one contrast area comprised of a material having different reflectivity than the rest of the object to electromagnetic radiation of at least the first frequency. The transmitter is positioned for transmitting electromagnetic radiation of at least the first frequency at the object. The receiver is positioned for receiving at least a portion of the modulated reflected radiation. The transmitter and receiver may comprise a single transceiver unit.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 1999Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Assignee: The DistanceCaddy Company, LLCInventor: Richard T. Mihran
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Patent number: 6113504Abstract: A golf ball locator system. The golf ball comprises a transmitter that transmits a coded signal, identifying the ball, and that is received by an array of receivers. The receivers measure either the angle of arrival, or the time of arrival of the signal, which is transmitted to a processor that uses triangulation calculations to generate location coordinates of the golf ball. The processor then transmits the location coordinates to a display unit. The display unit can be portable and viewed by the golfer. The display unit can simply display golf ball position coordinates in relation to a pre-existing golf course map, or display the golf ball on a map which may include various landmarks of the golf course. The system can further include a player location device that allows the system to give audio or visual traveling instructions to assist the golfer to locate his/her ball.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1998Date of Patent: September 5, 2000Assignee: Oblon, Spivak, McClelland, Maier & Neustadt, P.C.Inventor: Eckhard H. Kuesters