Short-Shafted Golf Laser Swing Trainer

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001]This application claims the benefit of provisional patent application No. 63/633,794, filed Apr. 14, 2024 by the present inventor.

BACKGROUND—PRIOR ART

[0002]The following is a tabulation of some prior art that presently appears relevant:

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003]The present invention relates to golf swing trainers, and more specifically to short-shafted golf laser swing trainers.

BACKGROUND

[0004]A short-shafted golf laser swing trainer is a compact training tool designed to help golfers improve their swing mechanics. It typically consists of a golf grip with a shortened shaft equipped with lasers that project onto the ground, visually indicating the path and plane of the swing. By providing immediate, real-time feedback, these devices help users identify flaws in their swing. Their shorter length makes them convenient for indoor practice and allows users to simulate swings in confined spaces, making them a popular choice for golfers looking to refine their skills off the course.

[0005]Early designs of short-shafted golf laser trainers featured a single laser positioned in the club's grip. This includes the Laser Track, Inc patent (U.S. Pat. No. 4,913,441) and the Hamilton patent (U.S. Pat. No. 5,924,934). Lazereyes Golf (U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,227,982 and 6,254,493) enhanced this design by introducing a dual-laser system, with lasers pointing in opposite directions. This innovation allows users to visualize their entire swing, rather than just a portion of it, providing a more comprehensive view of swing mechanics.

[0006]Despite improvements, existing drawings fail to address the most critical feature of a short-shafted dual laser trainer: versatility. Existing designs have fixed features, specifically a shaft that is permanently attached to a grip with built in lasers. This poses several problems related to weight, length, and the lasers.

[0007]The first problem of being one dimensional is with having a fixed weight. If the device is not the right weight, the user may have difficulty keeping the projected laser dots stable, making them appear shaky on the ground and difficult to see. The wrong weight also prevents the golfer from developing proper muscle memory, making the device less effective and limiting its application to real-world golf scenarios. The ideal weight varies by user, as some golfers prefer lighter clubs while others favor heavier ones. However, current patents lack the ability to adjust their weight to match individual preferences and needs.

[0008]Another disadvantage of existing designs is that they all have a fixed length. Existing drawings depict a trainer with a one size fits all approach that doesn't allow the user to tailor the trainer's length to their swing style, length preference, or practice space. Without this versatility, the trainer is not suitable for various environments, including tight indoor spaces. This forces some users to adapt to the trainer rather than the trainer adapting to them, hindering improvement.

[0009]Lastly, in existing patented designs the lasers are fixed and non-removable. This means that the lasers cannot be repurposed for use with other golf training devices, such as those that clip onto a golf club. This restricts the trainer's adaptability and makes it less useful for golfers who want to transition between standalone practice and real-club training. Non-removable lasers also limit the trainer's flexibility, preventing golfers from tailoring their training setups to suit specific preferences or training scenarios, such as indoor versus outdoor practice.

SUMMARY

[0010]The present invention relates to a short-shafted golf laser trainer designed to improve swing mechanics through enhanced visual feedback and custom feel. The trainer incorporates dual lasers positioned at opposite ends: one in the head projecting downward to trace the swing path, and another in the grip projecting upward to visualize the swing plane.

[0011]The trainer is designed to allow the user to adjust the length and weight of the device to their comfort level ensuring stability in the device when in use so that the lasers appear steady and not shaky when in use. Interchangeable weight also translates to muscle memory development, and seamless transition to actual play. The adjustability of the length of the device permits the user to use the device in confined areas or more open areas.

[0012]Additionally, the lasers are removable, allowing them to be used with other golf training devices, such as those that attach to standard golf clubs, enhancing the device's versatility and utility for golfers of all skill levels.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013]In the drawings, closely related figures have the same number but different alphabetic suffixes.

[0014]FIG. 1A shows a rear side view of the golf training device of the present invention.

[0015]FIG. 1B shows a front side view of the golf training device of the present invention.

[0016]FIG. 2A shows a side view of the device.

[0017]FIG. 2B shows a cross-section view of the device.

[0018]FIG. 3A shows a front side exploded view of the front laser chamber and weight.

[0019]FIG. 3B shows a rear side exploded view of the front laser chamber and weight.

[0020]FIG. 3C shows a side exploded view of the front laser chamber and weight.

[0021]FIG. 3D shows a cross-section and exploded view of the front laser chamber and weight.

[0022]FIG. 4A shows a front side view of the front laser chamber and weight.

[0023]FIG. 4B shows a top view of the front laser chamber without a cap and bolt.

[0024]FIG. 4C shows a front side view of the front laser chamber without a cap and bolt.

[0025]FIG. 4D shows a cross-section and view of the front laser chamber and weight.

[0026]FIG. 4E shows a cross-section and view of the front laser chamber and weight.

[0027]FIG. 5A shows a side exploded view of the back laser chamber components.

[0028]FIG. 5B shows a cross-section side exploded view of the back laser chamber components.

[0029]FIG. 6A shows a cross-section side view of the back laser chamber components.

[0030]FIG. 6B shows a side view of the back laser chamber components.

[0031]FIG. 6C shows a side back view of the back laser chamber components.

[0032]FIG. 6D shows the inside of the back laser chamber without a cap and bolt.

[0033]FIG. 7 shows the full assembled version of the device.

[0034]FIG. 8 shows the device without the shaft weight.

[0035]FIG. 9 shows the device without the shaft.

[0036]FIG. 10 shows the swing sequence using the device.

REFERENCE NUMBERS

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053]Referring now in detail to the drawings, FIGS. 1A and 1B provide a perspective view of one embodiment of the device. As illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the device comprises four primary components: a head 11, shaft weight 12, shaft 13, and grip 14.

[0054]As illustrated in FIGS. 3A to 3D, the head 11 comprises a head cap 16 and a head laser chamber 18. The head cap 16 features internal threads that securely fasten onto the external threads of the head laser chamber 18. The interior of the head laser chamber 18 is hexagonally shaped as seen in FIGS. 4B and 4C. This serves two key functions: it firmly holds the head laser 17 in place, comparable to a cylindrical design, and it locks a head bolt 19 in a fixed position. This design enables the head 11 to be attached to either a shaft weight 12 or a shaft 13 without any bolt movement or the need for tools.

[0055]As seen in FIGS. 6A through 6C, the device's grip 14 matches the length, material, and shore-hardness of a standard grip. Beneath the rubber grip 22 lies a grip shaft structure 21 and laser chamber 25. This provides structural support for the rubber grip 22, grip bolt 20, and grip laser 23. As seen in FIG. 6D, the interior of the grip laser chamber is hexagonally shaped, which firmly holds the laser in place and locks the grip bolt in a fixed position.

[0056]FIG. 2B illustrates a removable shaft 13 with internal threads at each end configured to screw into the head bolt 19 and grip bolt 20. FIGS. 3A through 3D depict a removable shaft weight 12 with internal threads configured to screw into the head bolt 19 and grip bolt 20.

[0057]As seen in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the device's four main components are securely connected using two bolts. One bolt 20 is positioned within the grip shaft structure 21, with its head resting at the base of the grip laser chamber 25. Its shank extends along the length of the grip shaft structure 21, and its threads protrude from the front of the grip 14. The second bolt 19 is located within the head laser chamber 18, seated at the base of the chamber and with its threads extending out the back.

[0058]When fully assembled as depicted in FIG. 7, the head bolt 19 is threaded through the shaft weight 12 and into the shaft 13, while the grip bolt 20 is threaded directly into the shaft 13. When assembled without the shaft weight 12 as seen in FIG. 8, both the head bolt 19 and grip bolt 20 are threaded directly into the shaft 13. When assembled without the shaft 13 as shown in FIG. 9, the head bolt 19 and grip bolt 20 are threaded directly into the shaft weight 12.

[0059]The device features two lasers, each pointing in opposite directions, housed in separate chambers. As seen in FIGS. 3A through 3D, the head laser 17 fits in the head laser chamber 18. As seen in FIG. 6A the grip laser 23 fits in the grip laser chamber 25. These lasers have an output power range of 1 to 4.99 milliwatts (Class 3R) and are powered by three LR44 batteries. Each laser is equipped with a button on its back end, allowing for simple on/off activation with a quick press.

[0060]The lasers are removable, allowing for flexible reconfiguration. They can be transferred to a secondary device that clips onto a full-length golf club, enabling golfers to seamlessly transition between practicing with the trainer and using their actual equipment.

[0061]When the lasers are inserted, the button end rests against the bolt head, while the laser end is positioned up towards the cap. Both the head cap 16 and grip cap 24 are designed with a hole in its center to allow the laser beam to pass through. As seen in FIG. 2B, the head cap hole 15 and grip cap hole 26 are large enough for the user to insert a finger and press down on the laser. Pressing down on the laser while it remains in the chamber depresses the on/off button, allowing the user to activate/deactivate it without needing to remove it from the device.

Embodiments—FIGS. 7 Through 9

[0062]The current design offers three configurations to suit user preferences and practice needs. FIG. 7 illustrates the device in its full assembly, consisting of the head 11, shaft weight 12, shaft 13, and grip 14. FIG. 8 shows the device without the shaft weight 12, while FIG. 9 depicts the device without the shaft 13.

[0063]These configurations cater to different practice environments and user preferences. For those who prefer a compact or lightweight option, the shaft 13 can be removed as depicted in FIG. 9. This is particularly useful for limited indoor spaces or for portability, as the device becomes small enough to fit in travel luggage. Alternatively, users seeking a mid-length, lighter trainer can remove the shaft weight 12 as seen in FIG. 8. When not fully assembled, a shorter bolt is used to connect the front chamber directly to the shaft or to the weight when used without the shaft.

[0064]When fully assembled with both the shaft 13 and shaft weight 12 as in FIG. 7, the trainer offers maximum length and weight. This configuration provides optimal stability for the laser, ensuring it stays steady during swings. Additionally, it closely resembles a real club in feel and balance, enhancing muscle memory and delivering the most accurate swing simulation.

[0065]Although the description above contains many specificities, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments but as merely providing illustrations of some of the several embodiments. For example, the shaft weight 12 and shaft 13 could come in different lengths, widths, and weight. Thus, the scope of the embodiments should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the examples given.

Operation

[0066]To use the device, the user begins by unscrewing the head cap 16 and grip cap 24. The head laser 17 is inserted in the head laser chamber 18 and the grip laser 23 into the grip laser chamber 25. Lasers are inserted button side down with the lasers pointing outward. The caps are then screwed back on, and the lasers are activated by the user inserting a finger into the cap hole and pushing down on the laser. This activates the on/off button, and the device is ready to use.

[0067]To practice a swing that follows the correct path and plane, the user assumes their normal stance and aligns the laser with either the target line or the shaft line, based on their preference. The target line is an imaginary line extending indefinitely between the target and the ball, while the shaft line runs parallel to the target line, approximately 1.5 inches below the ball placement and extending in both directions.

[0068]As seen in FIG. 10, the objective is to keep the laser dots aligned along a straight line (target or shaft line) parallel to the user's feet throughout the swing. When the hands are below waist level, the front laser should remain on the line; when the hands are above waist level, the back laser should stay on the same line.

[0069]If the laser moves inside the shaft or target line, it indicates that the swing is too steep, which may result in a draw, hook, or an over-the-top motion on the downswing. Conversely, if the laser moves outside the shaft or target line, it suggests a swing that is too flat, potentially causing a slice or fade.

Advantages

Conclusion

[0078]Accordingly, the reader will see that a short-shafted laser trainer of the various embodiments can be very versatile which stands out as the most important feature of a golf laser trainer. Its adjustable weight and length provide adaptability for diverse training needs. Beginners benefit from lighter, shorter configurations that offer greater control for mastering swing mechanics, while advanced players can utilize longer, heavier setups that replicate the feel of a real club, enabling precise technique refinement and realistic practice.

[0079]The device's adjustable weight and length also support varied training goals. Heavier configurations build muscle and improve stability, while lighter setups enhance swing speed and rhythm. Shorter lengths work well for limited indoor spaces, while longer setups replicate on-course conditions for outdoor practice.

[0080]This customization enables the trainer to closely simulate the feel of a real club, improving muscle memory and facilitating a smooth transition to actual play. As golfers' needs evolve, the trainer adapts to match their growing strength, precision, and technique, making it a versatile, practical, and effective tool for improving swing mechanics and overall performance.

[0081]Another multifunctional feature of the trainer of the various embodiments is its removable lasers, which can be used with other golf training devices, such as those that clip-on to a club shaft. This flexibility ensures consistency across different tools, making it easier to transition from standalone practice to real-club swings. By utilizing dual-purpose lasers, users save on equipment costs and eliminate the need for duplicates. The removable design allows effortless switching between trainers, accommodating both indoor and outdoor practice. This versatility supports a comprehensive and seamless approach to improving swing mechanics and bridging focused practice with real-world application.

[0082]With its versatile features, the trainer of the various embodiments stands out as a superior golf laser trainer, enabling users to practice their swing, correct errors, and maintain proper club path and plane. By fostering accurate muscle memory, this device helps users develop better swing habits, ultimately enhancing their performance and enjoyment of the game.