JP6559909B2 - Apparatus and method for golf practice - Google Patents

Description

<Cross-reference of related applications>

  This application claims priority to US Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 263,335, filed Dec. 4, 2015, entitled “Apparatus and Methods for Golf Training”. The disclosure of this prior application is considered part of the present application and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

  The present disclosure relates generally to golf practice aids, and more specifically to golf practice aids configured to maintain the position of a golfer's left and right forearms relative to a golf club over portions of a full swing.

  There are plenty of golf practice aids on the market. However, such aids are generally large and difficult to set up or use, or generally only support a portion of a golfer's backswing, downswing, or follow-through. Accordingly, there is a need for a compact and improved golf practice aid that teaches proper swing by maintaining the position of the golfer's left and right forearms relative to the golf club across multiple portions of the backswing, downswing, and follow-through.

  Each of the systems, methods, and devices described herein has several aspects, none of which is solely responsible for its desired attributes. Without limiting the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims, some features will now be described briefly. After consideration of this description, particularly after reading the section entitled “DETAILED DESCRIPTION”, the advantageous features of the device will be understood.

  In one aspect, combined with a golf club to maintain the position of the golfer's left and right forearm relative to a golf club including at least a shaft and a grip over one or more portions of backswing, downswing, and follow-through A golf swing assist device used is disclosed. The apparatus can include a connector configured for attachment to a shaft or grip and having a first receiver and a second receiver. The apparatus includes a first arm having a proximal end configured to be coupled to the first receiver, a distal end, and a first plurality of curved portions disposed therebetween. May be included. The apparatus includes a second arm having a proximal end configured to be coupled to the second receiver, a distal end, and a second plurality of curved portions disposed therebetween. May be included. The apparatus may include a first contact member supported by the distal end of the first arm and configured to contact the left forearm. The apparatus can include a second contact member that is supported by the distal end of the second arm and can be configured to contact the right forearm. In one aspect, at least one of the first plurality of bending portions and the second plurality of bending portions includes at least a first bending portion, a second bending portion, and a third bending portion, and the second bending portion. Is disposed between the first bending portion and the third bending portion.

  In another aspect, in combination with a golf club to maintain the position of the golfer's left and right forearm relative to a golf club including at least a shaft and a grip over one or more portions of backswing, downswing, and follow-through A used golf swing assistance device is disclosed. The apparatus can include a connector configured for attachment to a shaft or grip and having a first receiver and a second receiver. The apparatus includes a first arm having a proximal end configured to be coupled to the first receiver, a distal end, and a first plurality of curved portions disposed therebetween. May be included. The apparatus includes a second arm having a proximal end configured to be coupled to the second receiver, a distal end, and a second plurality of curved portions disposed therebetween. May be included. The apparatus may include a first contact member supported by the distal end of the first arm and configured to contact the left forearm. The apparatus can include a second contact member that is supported by the distal end of the second arm and can be configured to contact the right forearm. In one aspect, at least one of the first plurality of bending portions and the second plurality of bending portions forms an S-shape as a whole.

  In yet another aspect, a golf club to maintain the position of a golfer's left and right forearm relative to a golf club including at least a shaft and a grip over one or more portions of backswing, downswing, and follow-through A golf swing assist device used in combination is disclosed. The apparatus can include a connector configured for attachment to a shaft or grip and having a first receiver and a second receiver. The apparatus includes a first arm having a proximal end configured to be coupled to the first receiver, a distal end, and a first plurality of curved portions disposed therebetween. May be included. The apparatus includes a second arm having a proximal end configured to be coupled to the second receiver, a distal end, and a second plurality of curved portions disposed therebetween. May be included. The apparatus may include a first contact member supported by the distal end of the first arm and configured to contact the left forearm. The apparatus can include a second contact member that is supported by the distal end of the second arm and can be configured to contact the right forearm. In one aspect, at least one of the first plurality of bending portions and the second plurality of bending portions has a convex shape and a concave shape in which the contour of the corresponding first arm or second arm has a plurality of inflection points, respectively. May include a plurality of inflection points arranged along the length of the corresponding first arm or second arm so as to switch between.

  The details of one or more embodiments of the subject matter described in this specification are set forth in the accompanying drawings and are described below. Other features, aspects, and advantages will be apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims. It should be noted that the relative dimensions of the attached drawings are not drawn to scale.

  In the following, embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are provided by way of example and not by way of limitation.

1 is a perspective view of a right-handed golfer addressing a ball using a golf practice assist device coupled to a golf club, according to some embodiments. FIG. FIG. 2 is a view similar to FIG. 1 except that the golfer has started a backswing and his wrists are cocked and the golf practice assisting device is at one point during the backswing contacting his forearms. FIG. 3 is a view similar to FIG. 2 except that the golfer is in the middle of a backswing. FIG. 4 is a view similar to FIG. 3 except that the golfer is at the top of the backswing. FIG. 5 is a view similar to FIG. 4 except that the golfer is downswinging. FIG. 6 is a view similar to FIG. 5 except that the golfer moves to follow-through after hitting the ball. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the golf practice assistance device of FIGS. 1-6 coupled to a golf club grip. FIG. 8 is a front, top, right perspective view of the golf practice assistance device of FIG. 7 configured for a right-handed golfer. FIG. 8 is a front, upper, left perspective view of the golf practice assistance device of FIG. 7 in which the position of the first arm is switched to the position of the second arm so that the golf practice assistance device is configured for a left-handed golfer. FIG. 9 is a right side view of the first arm of the embodiment shown in FIG. 8 coupled to a connector. FIG. 9 is a right side view of the second arm of the embodiment shown in FIG. 8 coupled to a connector. FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG.

  Embodiments of the present disclosure provide four stages from the initial setup (address to the ball) to the swing itself (ie, backswing, downswing, contact, and follow-through) for both full swing and chip shots. Provided is a golf practice aid that can be used by golfers throughout the entire golf swing. In particular, the present disclosure is configured to maintain the position of the golfer's left and right forearms relative to the golf club across one or more portions of the backswing, one or more portions of the downswing, and one or more portions of the follow-through. Related to golf practice aids. The present disclosure also relates to a golf practice aid configured to maintain the position of the golfer's left and right forearms relative to the golf club in an addressed posture. Embodiments of the present disclosure further improve golfer wrist positioning during swing. Proper wrist positioning over various parts of a golf swing is also referred to as a wrist hinge or wrist cock. Thus, some embodiments disclosed herein allow a golfer to wear a proper wrist hinge or proper wrist cock.

  In one embodiment, the golf practice aid guides the position of the golfer's left and right forearms relative to the golf club by maintaining contact with the golfer's left and right forearms over at least a portion of the backswing, downswing, and follow-through, This allows the golfer to be taught how to swing in the proper form throughout the entire swing. For example, in one embodiment, the golf practice aid spans a portion of a backswing, a portion of a downswing, and a portion of a follow-through so that a full swing with an iron, wood, and driver is performed in the proper form. The golfer is configured to be simultaneously engaged with the left and right forearms (also referred to as a contact arc).

  In addition, in one embodiment, the golf practice aid is in contact with the left and right forearms in the addressing posture in addition to maintaining contact with the golfer's left and right forearms over at least a portion of the backswing, downswing, and follow-through. By guiding the position of the left and right forearms of the golfer relative to the golf club, the golfer can be taught to swing in the proper form throughout the chip shot (also referred to as a chipping swing). For example, in one embodiment, the golf practice aid may be used during an addressing posture and as part of a backswing so that any chippable club, such as a pitching wedge, 9 iron, etc., can be chipshot in the proper form. , Configured to simultaneously engage (also referred to as contact arcs) with the golfer's left and right forearms over a portion of the downswing and a portion of the follow-through.

  Simultaneous and continuous engagement of the golfer's left and right forearms with golf practice aids over multiple parts of a properly performed swing throughout the full swing with iron, wood, and driver, as well as pitching wedges and other tips that can be chipped It can help the golfer wear the proper form throughout the chip shot at the club. This allows golfers to improve flight distance, accuracy, and consistency, and make the game more interesting and fun. However, the swing of a golf club is complicated and it is difficult to realize a proper form. In order to achieve the proper form, the golfer needs to position his body and club correctly over the four stages of initial setup and swing. For example, a golfer needs to have the correct stance for proper foam. This includes proper spacing between both feet, proper bending of both knees, and proper positioning of both shoulders, as well as correct grip on the club, correct positioning of both arms, and correct body and club movement throughout the swing. It is. Conveniently, the golf practice aids described herein can assist the golfer with the golfer's own body mechanics so that the golfer can swing in a proper form or otherwise improved form. .

  Conventional golf practice aids that contact and guide both forearms position the golfer's left and right forearms relative to the golf club in a backswing, downswing, and follow-through for full swings with irons, woods, and drivers (3 For example, both forearms during the addressing posture for chip shots on a chipping club such as a pitching wedge, 9 iron, etc. The golfer does not touch the left and right forearms of the golfer, such as by simultaneous and sequential engagement. In addition, conventional golf practice aids have sufficient flexibility in multiple directions and sufficient rigidity in multiple directions to allow fine variations in forearm positioning, even on full swings and chip shots However, it does not provide an arm that still maintains the proper overall form during a golf swing. For example, conventional golf practice aids may only bend in one direction when loaded and the arm may be too far away to maintain a proper overall form over a full swing. As a result, conventional practice aids only guide the golfer over a portion of a full golf swing with an iron, wood, or driver, and also a portion of a tipping golf swing with a pitching wedge and other clubs that can be chipped. Just guide the golfer over. For example, conventional practice aids may guide a golfer only over a portion of either one, not both a backswing or follow-through for either a full swing or a chip shot. Accordingly, the present specification includes both forearms of a golfer over a portion of each of the active swing stages including backswing, downswing, and follow-through for full swing and chip shot, and in the addressing posture for chip shot. An apparatus and method for an improved golf practice aid that can be engaged and guided is described.

  1-6 illustrate a golfer using various embodiments of a golf practice assistance device 100 coupled to a golf club 106 over various parts of a full swing. For example, FIG. 1 shows a right-handed golfer addressing a ball using a golf practice assistance device 100 coupled to a golf club 106. In one embodiment, the golf club 106 shown in FIGS. 1-6 can be an iron, wood, or driver. As shown in FIG. 1, the golf practice assistance device 100 does not contact the golfer's forearms while addressing the ball. FIG. 2 is a view similar to FIG. 1 except that the golfer of FIG. 2 has started a backswing. In FIG. 2, the golfer cocks his wrists and is at one point during the backswing where the golf practice assisting device 100 and his forearms are in contact. FIG. 3 is a view similar to FIG. 2 except that the golfer is in the middle of the backswing. In FIG. 3, the golfer continues to cock his wrists, and the golf practice assistance device 100 continues to touch both forearms of the golfer. FIG. 4 is a view similar to FIG. 3 except that the golfer of FIG. 4 is at the top of the backswing. In FIG. 4, the golfer's wrists are still cocked, and the golf practice assisting device 100 continues to contact the golfer's forearms. FIG. 5 is a view similar to FIG. 2 except that the golfer is downswing. In FIG. 5, the golfer's wrists are still cocked, and the golf practice assistance device 100 continues to contact the golfer's forearms. FIG. 5 shows the golfer at one point during the downswing where both shoulders of the golfer are square with respect to the ball and the club face is about to strike the ball. FIG. 5 shows both hands of a golfer leading the club face. Thereby, the bending action of the club which raises the striking force of the ball can be generated, and the flight distance of the ball can be extended. FIG. 6 is a view similar to FIG. 5 except that the golfer of FIG. 6 moves to follow-through after hitting the ball. FIG. 6 shows the golf practice assistance device 100 that is no longer in contact with both forearms of the golfer, and now the club face leads both hands. As shown in FIGS. 2 to 5, the golf practice assistance device 100 contacts both forearms of the golfer during the illustrated multiple portions of the swing including the backswing and downswing. Although not shown, the golf practice assisting device 100 contacts both forearms of the golfer during follow-through, for example, a portion of the follow-through beyond the point shown in FIG. Of course, the swings shown in FIGS. 1-6 are exemplary and non-limiting, and those skilled in the art will be able to use a plurality of different skills, such as beginners, beginners, intermediates, advanced players, amateurs, professionals, etc. It will be appreciated that any other suitable swing is contemplated, including a swing that embodies the level. Further, the particular contact arc that the golf practice assistance device 100 contacts the golfer's left and right forearms during backswing, downswing, and follow-through may vary between golfers, and among other factors, among other things, the golfer's physiology. , Skill level, personal preference, age, physical handicap, etc.

  The golf practice assistance device 100 may contact both forearms during one or more portions of a backswing, downswing, and follow-through during a full swing with an iron, wood, or driver. For example, in some embodiments, the golf practice assistance device 100 contacts both forearms over multiple portions of the full swing excluding the address pose, ie, over the backswing arc, downswing arc, and follow-through arc. Configured to do. For example, in some embodiments, the golf practice assistance device 100 is configured not to contact both forearms over the first portion of the backswing measured from the address posture. In one embodiment, the point at which the golf practice assistance device 100 contacts both forearms depends on, among other factors, where and how much the golfer cocks his wrist during the backswing. . Similarly, in some embodiments, the golf practice assistance device 100 is configured not to contact both forearms over the final portion of the downswing and the first portion of the follow-through. The backswing, downswing, and follow-through arcs where the forearms are not in contact can vary greatly depending on, among other things, the swing technique, the placement of golf practice aids, the golfer's physiology, skill level, and so on.

  In addition, in some embodiments, the golf practice assistance device may be a pitching wedge or any other suitable tipping device such that the golf practice assistance device maintains contact with both forearms throughout the swing. Both forearms can be contacted over multiple portions of a chip shot at a club, for example, during an addressing posture, across a backswing, across a downswing, during a ball hit, and throughout a follow-through.

  In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the longer the golfer maintains contact with the golf practice aid during the swing, and the more the golfer cocks his or her wrists, The lag between the golfer's hands and the club face during the downswing becomes larger. The lug between the golfer's hands and the club face during the downswing produces a bending effect that favorably deflects the club, thus generating a stronger swing and extending the ball flight distance. Each embodiment disclosed herein advantageously helps a golfer to wear, fine tune and complete a swing that has a bend effect.

  FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the golf practice assistance device 100 shown in FIGS. 1-6 coupled to the grip 102 of the golf club 106. In some embodiments, the golf practice assistance device 100 can also be coupled to the shaft 104 of the golf club 106. Although not shown in FIG. 7, the golf practice assisting device 100 may be used against a golf club grip or shaft to change the club face position during the swing, such as, for example, the swing shown in FIGS. And can be locked to the golf club at a plurality of different rotational positions. This unlocking of the golf practice aid and re-locking at a plurality of different rotational positions assists the golfer to practice both fade and draw shots, and also provides a golfer with a certain grip strength range. It is advantageous because it can help to cope with whether the grip strength is strong, weak or in between. In addition, the golf practice assistance device 100 can be moved up and down in the longitudinal direction of the grip and / or shaft of the golf club, and can be locked in an appropriate position. The golf practice aid can be moved up and down in the longitudinal direction of the grip and / or shaft of the golf club in this manner, thereby speeding up the point of engagement with the golf practice aid during the backswing of the golfer shown in FIG. Advantageously, the golf practice aid can be moved closer to or away from the golfer's hands to delay, or delay. Adjusting the position of the golf practice aid on the golf club in the longitudinal direction can also affect the wrist cock amount shown in FIG. For example, it is advantageous because the amount of cock on the wrist can be increased or decreased by moving the golf practice aid closer to or away from both hands of the golfer.

  FIG. 8 shows the golf practice assistance device 100 shown in FIG. 7 removed from the grip of the golf club. As shown in FIG. 8, the golf practice assistance device 100 includes a plurality of components that are assembled together. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the golf practice assistance device 100 includes a connector 110, a first arm 120, and a second arm 130. In other embodiments, more or fewer than three components are used. For example, in some embodiments, the golf practice aid 100 is manufactured as an integral device, for example, by a molding or co-molding process. In other embodiments, each of the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 may comprise a plurality of components assembled together. For example, some embodiments of the first arm 120 may comprise a shaft and a remainder configured to be coupled to the shaft.

  In the illustrated embodiment, the connector 110 is configured to be removably attached to a golf club shaft or grip. The coupling between the connector 110 and the shaft is designed to prevent pivoting or rotation of the golf practice assistance device 100 about the shaft or grip during the swing. This coupling is further configured to prevent sliding of the golf practice assistance device 100 along the central axis of the shaft or grip during the swing.

  The connector 110 is further configured to house the first arm 120 and the second arm 130. In some embodiments, the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 are releasable from the connector 110. After being released from the connector 110 and removed, the position of the first arm 120 and the position of the second arm 130 can be interchanged. Thus, the golf practice assistance device 100 can be configured for use by both left-handed and right-handed golfers. In the illustrated embodiment, the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 are attached to the connector 110 to accommodate a right-handed golfer. However, in other embodiments, the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 to accommodate left-handed golfers, as shown in FIG. 9, which shows the embodiment of FIG. 7 in a left-handed arrangement. Can be attached to the connector 110. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the positions of the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 are switched to configure the golf practice assistance device 100 shown in FIG. 7 for a left-handed golfer. Yes.

  The connector 110 shown in FIG. 8 includes a receiving portion 116 and a receiving portion 118. In some embodiments, the connector 110 includes a fastener 114. The receiving portion 116 is configured to receive and fix a part of the first end portion 126 a of the first arm 120. Similarly, the receiving portion 118 is configured to receive and fix a part of the first end portion 136 a of the second arm 130. In some embodiments, the receivers 116, 118 engage the respective arms 120, 130 by sliding the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 into the respective receivers 116, 118. In some embodiments, the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 after being slid into the receivers 116, 118 are retracted and exit the receivers 116, 118 during use of the golf swing aid 100. To prevent, a lock structure 117 is used.

  In the illustrated embodiment, the pin assembly forms a locking structure 117. As shown in FIG. 8, the lock structure 117 includes two pin holes provided in the receiving portions 116 and 118 and two corresponding portions for locking the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 to the connector 110. Pins (not shown). In other embodiments, the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 securely engage the connector 110, eg, with tight manufacturing tolerances, so that the locking structure 117 need not be used. For example, in some embodiments, the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 are slid into a predetermined position. Of course, other suitable connections, such as interference fit and screw connections, are contemplated and understood.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the connector 110 further includes a fastening portion having a groove 112 and a fastener 114. Together, the groove 112 and the fastener 114 are configured to secure the assembled golf practice aid device 100 to a golf club (not shown). The groove 112 can surround a portion of the golf club shaft or grip. Fasteners 114 can tighten or loosen the grooves 112 around the club. In some embodiments, the groove 112 comprises a tapered opening that accommodates the corresponding taper of the portion of the shaft or grip into which the groove is tightened, although other suitable groove shapes are contemplated and understood. In some embodiments, the fasteners 114 comprise nuts and bolts, although other suitable fasteners are contemplated and understood.

  The golf practice assistance device 100 shown in FIG. 8 can be used for any golf club that requires a full swing, such as, for example, irons, woods, and drivers. The connector 110 allows the user or instructor to position and / or adjust the golf practice assistance device 100 with respect to the golf club, so that the swing of the golfer who uses the golf practice assistance device 100 is correctly guided. As described in more detail above with reference to FIG. 7, the golf practice assistance device 100 may be coupled to the golf club at a plurality of different rotational and / or longitudinal positions.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the first arm 120 further includes a second end 126b to which the contact member 124 is integrally attached. Similarly, the second arm 130 further includes a second end 136b to which the contact member 134 is integrally attached. In some embodiments, each of the contact members 124, 134 has a curved shape. This curved contour may be selected to match, support, or match the outer contour of the golfer's forearm. In some embodiments, the contact members 124, 134 are located where the contact members 124, 134 contact the golfer's forearms to reduce undesirable wear or friction of the contact members 124, 134 against the golfer's skin. Includes foam or other compressible material. In some embodiments, the contact members 124, 134 slightly wrap around the forearm to resist separation from the forearm. In some embodiments, an adhesive and / or strap is used to resist separation. According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the golfer maintains contact between the golf practice assistance device 100 and his or her forearms over at least a plurality of backswings, downswings, and follow-throughs. The positioning of his or her wrist during the golfer's swing is improved. Proper wrist positioning over various parts of a golf swing is also referred to as a wrist hinge or wrist cock. Some embodiments disclosed herein allow a golfer to wear a proper wrist hinge or proper wrist cock.

  Each contact member 124, 134 (see FIG. 8) contacts the golfer's forearm over at least a portion of the golfer's backswing to allow the swing to take place in the proper form. In order to wear the wrist cock described above, the respective contact members 124, 134 of the arms 120, 130 guide the position of their wrists relative to the golfer's forearms across various parts of the golf swing. For example, proper wrist positioning over a portion of a golfer's backswing is achieved when the golfer's left arm is approximately perpendicular to the ground and the golf club shaft is positioned on the golf shot as shown in FIG. This is a case where both forearms of the golfer maintain contact with the contact members 124 and 134 when they are substantially parallel to the target line.

  As another example, proper positioning of the wrist in the subsequent portion of the golfer's backswing is achieved when the golfer's left arm is substantially parallel to the ground as shown in FIG. This is a case where both forearms of the golfer maintain contact with the contact members 124 and 134 when is approximately perpendicular to the target line of the golf shot. As another example, proper positioning of the wrist at a later portion of the golfer's backswing is achieved by the golfer's forearms until the golfer reaches the backswing end point as shown in FIG. Is a case where the contact with the contact members 124 and 134 is maintained. By maintaining the contact between the golfer's forearms and the respective contact members 124, 134 as described above, the golfer's wrists essentially cock (eg, hinge) during the backswing.

  When the swing is performed in the proper form, the contact members 124, 134 inevitably contact the golfer's forearm over at least a portion of the golfer's downswing. Some embodiments of the present disclosure can allow a golfer to wear a proper cock (eg, hinge) on the wrist during backswing, as described above. In addition, each embodiment disclosed in this specification can allow a golfer to hold an appropriate cock on the wrist from the top of the backswing until an impact occurs. As an example, maintaining contact between the golfer's forearms and contact members 124, 134 over at least the initial portion of the downswing results in a downswing with the wrist properly cocked. A downswing in which the wrist is properly cocked is important for realizing a golf swing having the above-mentioned desired bending action. Further, by maintaining contact between the golfer's forearms and the contact members 124, 134 over at least the initial part of the downswing, the golfer's hands can essentially move the club face as shown in FIG. Leading in front of it results in the proper desired bend over the rest of his or her golf swing.

  Also, when the swing is performed in the proper form, the contact members 124, 134 inevitably contact the golfer's forearms over subsequent portions of the golfer's downswing and upon impact. If the above bend action is not coincident with the impact, it will happen at the time of the impact that the golfer releases his or her properly cocked (eg hinged) both wrists and both wrists. Is the case where the unhinged wrist linear positioning similar to the unhinged positioning shown in the addressed positioning of FIG. 1 is reached on impact. In some cases, it is advantageous for the golfer to maintain the wrist cock during the impact so that the contact members 124, 134 remain in contact with at least one forearm of the golfer during impact. More generally, the golfer's wrists should maintain a properly cocked position for as long as possible during the downswing. This is achieved when the golfer's forearms maintain contact with the contact members 124, 134 for as long as possible during the downswing. Thus, in some types of golf swings, the golfer's forearms touch each other over the rest of the downswing and during the impact when the golfer's cocked wrists are released and the club face is driven into the golf ball. It is anticipated that the members 124, 134 may become out of contact. Nevertheless, golfers who maintain contact between the contact members 124, 134 and their forearms for as long as possible during the downswing will produce the maximum possible bending action during the downswing, thereby ensuring proper wrist performance. Maximizing the beneficial effects of smooth positioning (eg, hinged wrists or cocked wrists). This can help increase the force applied to the golf ball upon impact, as well as improve the accuracy of the golf shot.

  Some embodiments of the golf practice assistance device 100 facilitate proper wrist positioning in a golfer's swing follow-through. For example, after impact, the golfer's left forearm should contact the contact member 124 at the same time or before the golfer's right forearm contacts the contact member 134, as shown in FIG. In another example, the golfer's right forearm may contact the contact member 134 at the same time or after the golfer's left forearm contacts the contact member 124. Regardless of when the golfer's left forearm contacts the contact member 124 during a golf swing follow-through, each of the disclosed embodiments facilitates proper wrist positioning during the swing finish. At that time, both forearms of the golfer should contact the contact members 124, 134 if they have not yet contacted the contact members 124, 134.

  Each of the contact members 124, 134 contacts the golfer's forearm over a portion of the golfer's backswing, downswing, and follow-through. For example, FIGS. 1-6 illustrate a golfer using one embodiment of the golf practice assisting device 100 over various parts of a full swing with an iron, wood, or driver, with contact members being both golfers. Contact with the forearm (also referred to as contact arc) is maintained across multiple parts of backswing, downswing, and follow-through. In contrast, if the swing is improperly performed, one or both of the contact members 124, 134 will not contact its corresponding forearm over the entire swing or over one or more portions of the contact arc. For example, both contact members 124, 134 are configured to contact one golfer's forearm over a properly performed backswing portion, but one or both of the contact members 124, 134 are improperly performed. Do not maintain contact with the corresponding forearm over any part of the backswing contact arc.

  When the user or instructor observes or perceives that one of the contact members 124, 134 is no longer in contact with the corresponding forearm, this lack of contact is inappropriate because the swing does not contact at one or more positions. Inform the employer or instructor that this has been done. In this case, the user and / or the instructor may use the golfer's body and / or swing as needed to achieve proper foam throughout the swing and maintain forearm contact with both contact members 124,134. The operation can be adjusted.

In one embodiment, the contact members 124, 134 are such that the plane tangent to the center of the contact members 124, 134 is parallel to the ends of the second ends 126 b, 136 b of the first arm 120 and the second arm 130. The second end portions 126b and 136b are integrally attached. For example, FIGS. 10 to 12 show the contact members 124 and 134 formed integrally with the second ends 126b and 136b. As further shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the second ends 126 b, 136 b are substantially perpendicular to the outer center of the contact members 124, 134. For example, in some embodiments, the angles Θ _C1 , Θ _C2 between the contact members 124, 134 and the second ends 126b, 136b can be 90 degrees. In another embodiment, the plane tangent to the outer center of the contact members 124, 134 is at an angle Θ _C1 , Θ _C2 with respect to a plane extending parallel to the distal ends of the second ends 126b, 136b, for example 80 degrees to 100 degrees. Arranged at degrees or any other suitable angle.

  Although not shown in FIG. 8, in another embodiment, the golf practice assistance device 100 further includes two forearm sensors. One is positioned on the contact member 124 and the other is positioned on the contact member 134. In such an embodiment, the golf practice assistance device 100 is configured so that the forearm is in contact with the contact members 124 and 134 so that the user and / or the instructor can easily identify the exact time when the improper swing starts and ends. An audible and / or visual notification may be issued at a point during the swing that interrupted and / or initiated contact. This audible and / or visual notification can be made by two different contact members 124, 134 so that the user and / or instructor can easily identify which forearm (one arm or both arms) is away from the contact members 124, 134. Can be different for each. For example, the two audible notifications can be two different pitches emitted from a speaker, and the two visible notifications can be two different colored lights illuminated by light emitting diodes located on the golf practice assistance device 100. It can be. In one embodiment, the forearm sensor can be a pressure sensor, a proximity sensor, or any other suitable sensor and is electrically connected to the processor.

  As further shown in FIG. 8, the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 may each have one or more curvatures to provide an optimal balance between flexibility and rigidity. . For example, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 showing right side views of the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 coupled to the connector 110 of the embodiment shown in FIG. May include three curved portions 122a, 122b, and 122c, and the second arm 130 may include three curved portions 132a, 132b, and 132c. The reference sign of each bending portion is shown at the center of each bending portion. In some embodiments, there is an inflection point between adjacent bends. For example, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, inflection points 123ab and 123bc exist between the curved portions 122a and 122b and between the curved portions 122b and 122c, respectively. Similarly, inflection points 133ab and 133bc exist between the bending portions 132a and 132b and between the bending portions 132b and 132c, respectively. In some embodiments, these inflection points indicate where the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 switch to a concave shape. For example, in one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, when viewed from the top surface of the first arm 120, the curved portion 122a is concave, the curved portion 122b is convex, and the curved portion 122c is concave. It is. The change in curvature between the illustrated curved portions occurs at the inflection points 123ab and 123bc. Similarly, in one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, when viewed from the upper surface of the second arm 130, the curved portion 132a is concave, the curved portion 132b is convex, and the curved portion 132c is It is concave. The change in curvature between the illustrated curved portions occurs at the inflection points 133ab and 133bc. Further, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 have an S-shape as a result of having one or more curved portions. Of course, any other curved and / or slanted shape is also contemplated and understood. The illustrated selection and placement of sizes and shapes for bends and other structures contribute to the desirable decorative appearance of the golf practice assistance device 100.

  In addition, each golfer can still achieve the proper foam while holding the golf club in a slightly different manner, so that the illustrated curves 122a, 122b, 122c, 132a, 132b, 132c not only slightly deflects the first arm 120 and the second arm 130, but also contributes to or causes such differences in golfer height, arm length, and stance, etc. The first arm 120 and the second arm 130 are slightly deflected to accommodate physiological differences, particularly differences such as user and / or instructor preferences and / or habits. Such differences and variations between golfers can potentially affect the interaction between the contact members 124, 134 and the golfer's forearms when they are using the golf practice aid device 100. For example, due to such differences and variations among golfers, different compression loads may be applied to the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 during the swing. As a result, it may be advantageous if the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 function as springs and exhibit a small degree of deflection. In addition, the spring-like ability of the curved portions 122a, 122b, 122c, 132a, 132b, 132c also serves to make the golf practice assistance device 100 more comfortable during use. For example, the curved portions 122a, 122b, 122c, 132a, 132b, 132c shown in the drawing cause the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 to bend, so that the golfer is more confident while using the device and is able to club with greater force. When starting to swing, the contact members 124 and 134 are not uncomfortablely pushed into both forearms. The bending portions 122a, 122b, 122c, 132a, 132b, and 132c absorb a part of the compressive load generated during the swing, thereby reducing the amount of force that presses the contact members 124 and 134 against both forearms. . In some embodiments, the illustrated bends 122a, 122b, 122c, 132a, 132b, 132c bend along one or more bends in response to a compressive load applied during the swing. In addition, the length of the first arm 120 or the second arm 130 is configured to decrease when the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 are bent along one or more curved portions.

Because of the same features, the curved portions 122a, 122b, 122c, 132a, 132b, 132c function to prevent excessive deflection of the first arm 120 and the second arm 130, so that the golf practice assistance device 100 is intended. Since the golfer can be guided to perform the swing properly without sacrificing the completeness of the object, a golf swing with a proper form can be realized as a whole. For example, in one embodiment, the curved portions 122a, 122b, 122c, 132a, 132b, 132c are coordinate planes (a flexible plane and a flexible plane) in which the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 and the corresponding forearm substantially coincide in use. The bending portions 122a, 122b, 122c, 132a, 132b, and 132c further provide rigidity in a coordinate plane (referred to as a rigid plane) perpendicular to the flexible plane. In one embodiment, the flexible plane includes an XY plane and the rigid plane includes an XZ plane and a YZ plane, but any plane that is two mutually perpendicular planes is used as a reference plane. Would be suitable. For example, referring to dimension X ₁ and dimension Y ₁ in FIG. 10 and with reference to dimension X ₂ and dimension Y ₂ in FIG. 11, first arm 120 and second arm as described in more detail below. 130 increases in deflection _{X 1} and / or _{X 2,} as _{Y 1} and / or _{Y 2} is reduced in deflection, deflectable. In some embodiments, the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 can bend at the curved portions 122a, 122b, 122c, 132a, 132b, 132c, and further the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 can be receiving portions 116. , 118 may be deflected at pivot points that respectively leave.

  The desired balance between flexibility and stiffness of the practice aid is further suitable for plastic, metal, or flexibility suitable for the first arm 120 and second arm 130, and other components of the practice aid. This can be achieved by manufacturing a composite material having a desirable combination of strength and stiffness. Exemplary materials include polycarbonate and titanium, among others.

As further shown in FIG. 8, the first arm 120 is longer than the second arm 130, the two arms are spaced from each other at approximately 43 degree angle theta _s. Of course, the angle Θ _s need not be 43 degrees in all embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, Θ _s is, for example, 38 degrees, 39 degrees, 40 degrees, 41 degrees, 42 degrees, 43 degrees, 44 degrees, 45 degrees, 46 degrees, 47 degrees, or 48 degrees, etc. Any other suitable angle between the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 is also contemplated and understood, although it can range from approximately 25 degrees to 60 degrees. FIG. 12 further shows Θ _s from the bottom view of the perspective view shown in FIG. 8 as measured by an arc extending between the respective centers of the first arm 120 and the second arm 130.

Returning to FIGS. 10 and 11, a right side view of the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 of the golf practice assisting apparatus 100 coupled to the connector 110 is shown. In some embodiments, the first arm 120, as measured by line _{L 1,} Mashimashi approximately 9.6 inches extending from the connector 110, the second arm 130, as measured by line _{L 2,} from the connector 110 It extends approximately 6.8 inches. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, L ₁ is measured along a straight line located between the center of the connector 110 and the distal end of the first arm 120, and L ₂ is Measured along a straight line located between the center and the distal end of the second arm 130. In some embodiments, the first arm 120 is approximately 5.0 inches and approximately 8.2 inches (X ₁ and X) in two orthogonal directions from the origin O (eg, along the X and Y orthogonal coordinate axes). illustrated by Y ₁₎ respectively extends. During a swing, the first arm 120 increases _{X 1} is flexed as _{Y 1} is reduced to obtain (also curved designation). For example, in some embodiments, _{X 1} is may increase up to 0.5 to 2.0 inches in the swing, _{Y 1} may be reduced up to 0.5 to 1.5 inches during a swing. Similarly, in some embodiments, the second arm 130 is approximately 5.3 inches and approximately 4.2 inches (e.g., along the X and Y orthogonal coordinate axes) in two orthogonal directions from the origin O (e.g., along the X and Y orthogonal coordinate axes). shown by X ₂ and _{Y 2)} respectively extends. During a swing, the second arm 130, _{X 2} is increased, the deflection as _{Y 2} is reduced to obtain (also curved designation). For example, in some embodiments, _{X 2} may be increased up to 0.5 to 1.5 inches during a swing, _{Y 2} is may decrease up from 0.5 to 1.5 inches during a swing. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the ratio between L ₁ and L ₂ is approximately 1.4. In addition, the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 extend from the connector 110 at angles Θ ₁ and Θ ₂ , respectively. In one embodiment, the angles Θ ₁ , Θ ₂ include approximately 58.5 degrees and approximately 38.5 degrees, respectively. During the swing, the first arm 120 and the second arm 130 may bend so that Θ ₁ , Θ ₂ increases or decreases. For example, in some embodiments, Θ ₁ can range from 45 degrees to 70 degrees during a swing, while Θ ₂ can range from 25 degrees to 50 degrees during a swing. Of course, other suitable lengths, distances, ratios, and angles are also contemplated and understood.

For example, Θ ₁ and Θ ₂ need not be approximately 58.5 degrees and approximately 38.5 degrees in all embodiments, and the ratio between L ₁ and L ₂ is approximately 1 in all embodiments. X ₁ , Y ₁ , X ₂ , Y ₂ are approximately 5.0 inches, approximately 8.2 inches, approximately 5.3 inches, and approximately 4.2 inches in all embodiments. There is no need. In some embodiments, Θ ₁ can range from approximately 45 degrees to 70 degrees. Theta ₂ can range from about 25 to 50 degrees. The ratio between L ₁ and L ₂ can range from approximately 1.2 to 1.6 with corresponding lengths suitable for the first arm 120 and the second arm 130. X ₁ , Y ₁ , X ₂ , and Y ₂ are approximately 4.0 to 6.0 inches, approximately 7.2 to 9.2 inches, approximately 4.3 to 6.3 inches, and approximately 3.2 to 5 respectively. Can be in the range of 2 inches. In some embodiments, the dimensions referred to with respect to FIGS. 8 and 10-12 are such that multiple embodiments of the golf practice assistance device 100 disclosed herein can provide backswing, downswing, and follow-through. It is advantageously possible to properly guide the golfer over a golf swing that includes a portion of

  Various other modifications, adaptations, and alternative designs are of course possible in light of the above teaching. Accordingly, it should be understood at this point that the present invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein, within the scope of any appended embodiments. Various combinations or subcombinations of the specific features and aspects of each of the embodiments disclosed above are possible and are considered to be still within one or more of these inventions. Further, the disclosure herein of any particular feature, aspect, method, property, characteristic, quality, attribute, element, or the like with respect to one embodiment is intended to cover all other embodiments described herein. Can also be used. Thus, it should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or replaced with each other to form various aspects of each disclosed invention. Therefore, the scope of each invention disclosed in this specification should not be limited by the specific embodiments disclosed above. Furthermore, the present invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific examples of which are illustrated in the drawings and are described in detail herein. However, the invention is not limited to the specific forms or methods disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is not limited to the various embodiments described and any modifications and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the appended embodiments. It should be understood that this is intended to cover objects and alternatives. As used herein, numerical values preceded by terms such as “approximately”, “about”, and “substantially” include the numerical values recited (eg, Also represents an amount that is close to the stated amount, still performs the desired function, or achieves the desired result. For example, the terms “approximately”, “about”, and “substantially” include less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 1%, less than 0%, It may refer to less than 1% and less than 0.01%.

  While the above is directed to multiple embodiments of the present disclosure, other and further aspects of the present disclosure may be recalled without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the present disclosure is determined by the appended claims.

Claims (20)

Golf used in combination with a golf club to maintain the position of the golfer's left and right forearm relative to a golf club including at least a shaft and a grip over one or more portions of backswing, downswing, and follow-through A swing assist device, the device comprising:
A connector configured for attachment to the shaft or the grip and having a first receiver and a second receiver;
A first arm having a proximal end configured to couple to the first receiver, a distal end, and a first plurality of curved portions disposed therebetween;
A second arm having a proximal end configured to couple to the second receiving portion, a distal end, and a second plurality of curved portions disposed therebetween;
A first contact member supported by the distal end of the first arm and configured to contact the left forearm;
A second contact member supported by the distal end of the second arm and configured to contact the right forearm;
With
At least one of the first plurality of bending portions and the second plurality of bending portions includes at least a first bending portion, a second bending portion, and a third bending portion, and the second bending portion is By being disposed between the first bending portion and the third bending portion, the first arm or the second arm can function as a spring that absorbs a compressive load.
apparatus.   A first position between the first bending portion and the second bending portion defines a first inflection point, and a second position between the second bending portion and the third bending portion is One contour of the first arm or the second arm that defines a second inflection point and includes the first bending portion, the second bending portion, and the third bending portion is the first inflection point. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus switches between a convex shape and a concave shape at a bending point and the second inflection point.   When a compressive load is applied between the distal end and the proximal end of at least one of the first arm and the second arm, the length between the proximal end and the distal end is between them. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus decreases along an axis.   When a compressive load is applied between the distal end and the proximal end of at least one of the first arm and the second arm, at least one of the first arm and the second arm is compressed like a spring. The apparatus of claim 1.   The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the first arm and the second arm has an S shape along its length.   The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first arm is longer than the second arm.   The first arm has a length of 9.6 inches measured along a straight line located between the center of the connector and the distal end of the first arm, and the second arm is The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the length measured along a straight line located between the center of the connector and the distal end of the second arm is 6.8 inches.   The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first contact member is integrally formed with the first arm, and the second contact member is integrally formed with the second arm. Golf used in combination with a golf club to maintain the position of the golfer's left and right forearm relative to a golf club including at least a shaft and a grip over one or more portions of backswing, downswing, and follow-through A swing assist device, the device comprising:
A connector configured for attachment to the shaft or the grip and having a first receiver and a second receiver;
A first arm having a proximal end configured to couple to the first receiver, a distal end, and a first plurality of curved portions disposed therebetween;
A second arm having a proximal end configured to couple to the second receiving portion, a distal end, and a second plurality of curved portions disposed therebetween;
A first contact member supported by the distal end of the first arm and configured to contact the left forearm;
A second contact member supported by the distal end of the second arm and configured to contact the right forearm;
With
At least one of the first plurality of bending portions and the second plurality of bending portions forms an S-shape as a whole, so that the first arm or the second arm functions as a spring that absorbs a compressive load. obtain,
apparatus.   When a compressive load is applied between the distal end and the proximal end of at least one of the first arm and the second arm, at least one of the first plurality of curved portions or the second The apparatus of claim 9, wherein at least one of the plurality of bends compresses like a spring.   10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the apparatus is configured such that an angle between the first arm and the second arm is 43 degrees when the first arm and the second arm are connected to the connector. .   The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the apparatus is configured to be assembled for at least one of a right-handed golfer or a left-handed golfer.   The first arm extends 4.0 to 6.0 inches in a first direction from the connector and 7.2 to 9.2 inches in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction from the connector. The second arm extends 4.3 to 6.3 inches in the first direction from the connector, and 3.2 to 3.2 in the second direction perpendicular to the first direction from the connector. The apparatus of claim 9, extending 5.2 inches.   The apparatus of claim 9, wherein each of the first arm and the second arm comprises at least three bends between the proximal end and the distal end. Golf used in combination with a golf club to maintain the position of the golfer's left and right forearm relative to a golf club including at least a shaft and a grip over one or more portions of backswing, downswing, and follow-through A swing assist device, the device comprising:
A connector configured for attachment to the shaft or the grip and having a first receiver and a second receiver;
A first arm having a proximal end configured to couple to the first receiver, a distal end, and a first plurality of curved portions disposed therebetween;
A second arm having a proximal end configured to couple to the second receiving portion, a distal end, and a second plurality of curved portions disposed therebetween;
A first contact member supported by the distal end of the first arm and configured to contact the left forearm;
A second contact member supported by the distal end of the second arm and configured to contact the right forearm;
With
At least one of the first plurality of bending portions and the second plurality of bending portions has a contour of the corresponding first arm or second arm having a convex shape and a concave shape at each of a plurality of inflection points. A spring that includes a plurality of inflection points disposed along the length of the corresponding first arm or second arm so that the first arm or the second arm absorbs a compressive load so as to switch between them Can act as a
apparatus.   The first contact member is disposed at a first angle from the connector, the second contact member is disposed at a second angle from the connector, and the second angle is different from the first angle. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the first angle comprises between 45 degrees and 70 degrees, and the second angle comprises between 25 degrees and 50 degrees.   The first contact member and the second contact member are configured to contact the first forearm and the second forearm over a plurality of portions of a golf swing performed in a proper form, and the golf swing includes a setup stage, A backswing stage, a downswing stage, a contact stage, a follow-through stage, and a transition between the plurality of stages, wherein the first arm and the second arm are the backswing stage, the The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the apparatus is configured to contact the first forearm and the second forearm during a downswing phase and at least a portion of the follow-through phase.   The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the first arm and the second arm are integrally formed with the connector.   The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the ratio between the length of the first arm and the length of the second arm comprises 1.2-1.6.   The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the first contact member is attached to the first arm at 80 to 100 degrees, and the second contact member is attached to the second arm at 80 to 100 degrees.