Golf bag accessory
By designing an inflatable golf bag accessory, the problems of insufficient protection and inconvenience in transporting golf clubs are solved, providing a lightweight and multifunctional transportation solution that achieves safety and rain protection during transportation.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- WOOLLOOMOOLOO GC PTY LTD
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-11
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-31
AI Technical Summary
Existing golf club transport devices suffer from insufficient protection, large space occupation, heavy weight, difficulty in carrying and securing, and existing rain covers are inconvenient to use and store.
An inflatable golf bag accessory has been designed, comprising a center panel, side panels, and a top panel, which are fastened together to form a shell. The panels contain inflatable chambers that can secure golf clubs, provide cushioning protection during transport, and can also be used as rain covers.
It effectively protects golf clubs from damage during transportation, reduces space occupation, is lightweight and easy to carry, and provides rain protection when needed, making it suitable for various scenarios.
Smart Images
Figure CN122497544A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the transportation of sporting goods. In particular, it relates to the transportation and use of golf clubs with golf bags.
[0002] This invention was primarily developed for use in golf, and these applications will be described below with reference to them. However, it will be understood that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use and can also be used in other applications involving stick / bat-shaped sports equipment, such as hockey, baseball, cricket, lacrosse, polo, etc. Background Technology
[0003] Golf is a sport played on golf courses around the world, specifically designed to challenge golfers. Therefore, golfers want to challenge themselves by playing on different golf courses with varying layouts and designs. This has led to golf tourism, where golfers often vacation in other countries or states to play on a range of courses with different designs.
[0004] Golf is a sport played with a set of golf clubs. These clubs have a handle at one end, a slender shaft, and clubheads of varying sizes and shapes at the other end. The different shapes of the clubheads make transporting golf clubs difficult. Golf clubs are typically packed into golf bags from storage locations (such as homes) and moved to the golf course or driving range. Over the years, these golf bags have become relatively uniform in shape and size. An example of a typical bag is shown in... Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown in the image. One problem with this type of golf bag is that it has an open end to allow for quick selection or return of the club during the game. However, this open end creates an opening for debris, sprayers, and rainwater to enter, and can potentially damage the club located within it.
[0005] To seal the opening ends, end caps and rain covers / caps are used. However, these caps tend to be fragile, do not attach well to the bag, and are not aesthetically pleasing. Furthermore, typical rain covers often require excessive pulling up and down during use, or need to be completely removed from the bag to access the clubs, which is undesirable as it allows rain to get in. These caps are also unsuitable for travel because they are flexible.
[0006] Typically, golfers have a favorite set of golf clubs, set with the right length, grip, and weight for their own playing style. Traveling golfers don't want to rent clubs at their final destination; they want to bring their own.
[0007] This has led to many different types of transport options for golf clubs, ensuring they are not damaged during transport. In most cases, a hard shell encases the golf bag and clubs; however, the clubs move freely within the shell to some extent during transport. This can damage the clubs. Alternatively, travel bags with foam inserts have been developed, but these are bulky and wasteful of space.
[0008] Other problems with existing systems and products are that hard-shell cases are bulky and heavy, typically made of plastic or metal, providing protection but potentially making them cumbersome to carry and possibly exceeding air baggage weight limits and transportation (difficult to fit in a car trunk). They are difficult to maneuver because large hard-shell cases can be difficult to navigate through airports, public transportation, and confined spaces. Hard-shell cases take up a significant amount of storage space, and as mentioned above, the clubs still need internal padding to prevent clicking and breakage.
[0009] Soft housings offer less protection. While some soft housings provide some padding, they offer less protection than hard housings, leaving the shaft and clubhead exposed to damage during handling and shipping. Soft housings take up significant storage space. Rigid arms / sacrifice clubs do not add protection against clicking and shattering. They do not dampen or reduce impact on the club, but provide a more robust impact point than a golf club shaft.
[0010] Additional drawbacks may include excess weight fees, which can result in hefty airfares if baggage weight limits are exceeded. Storage is required when not in use. Purchases are expensive. None of the above methods allow for easy storage within an existing golf bag. None of these are multi-purpose.
[0011] Existing systems attempting to overcome these problems include collars that wrap around the protruding club but are not secured to the bag itself, which, if used alone, allow the club to fall out and can potentially increase damage by pushing the shaft in the opposite direction. They also don't work like rain caps. Other systems don't impede airflow, causing the cap to collapse upon impact.
[0012] There is a need for a golf club cover that keeps golf clubs safe during transport and can also function as a rain cover during use. Summary of the Invention
[0013] The object of the present invention is to substantially overcome or at least improve one or more disadvantages of the existing arrangement, or at least provide a useful alternative to the existing arrangement.
[0014] This article discloses a golf bag accessory that can be secured to a golf bag during use, the accessory having: A center panel having a base end, a top end, and a pair of side edges; a pair of side panels extending from the center panel, each side panel having a base end, a top end, a side edge fixed to the side edge of the center panel, and a free edge away from the center panel; and a top panel extending from the center panel, having a bottom end connected to the top end of the center panel, a free top end away from the center panel, and a pair of free side edges. The free edges of the side panels and top panel have fasteners that can be secured together in use to form a housing for accommodating golf clubs. One or more of the panels include an inflatable chamber such that, during use, the chamber, when inflated, secures the cue stick within the housing.
[0015] Preferably, the fastener includes a zipper.
[0016] Preferably, the fastener includes a hook-and-loop type fastener.
[0017] Preferably, the fastener includes a snap fastener.
[0018] Preferably, the fastener includes a magnet.
[0019] Preferably, the zipper is continuous from the base end of the free edge of the side panel to the top end of the free edge of the top panel.
[0020] Preferably, each panel includes an inflatable chamber.
[0021] Preferably, the inflatable chambers are connected.
[0022] Preferably, a panel includes a valve to help inflate the chamber.
[0023] Preferably, the base ends are provided with an opening when they are formed together, the opening being able to be secured around the open end of the golf bag.
[0024] Preferably, the accessory is a golf bag cover.
[0025] Preferably, the base end includes one or more strips to secure the cover to the golf bag.
[0026] Preferably, the strip includes a hook-and-loop fastener.
[0027] Preferably, in use, once the inflatable chamber is inflated, it reduces the space inside the bag chamber, thereby causing the clubs to be brought closer together and reducing the chance of movement during transportation.
[0028] Preferably, the panel is waterproof.
[0029] Preferably, the double zipper design has a fold-back portion that supports the flap when it is opened and closed.
[0030] Preferably, it includes multiple chambers having a system that impedes airflow between the chambers to maximize the volume of air cushioning the club within the housing during impact.
[0031] Preferably, during the initial impact, the volume of air at the point of impact increases the cushioning of the club.
[0032] Preferably, as the impact proceeds, the obstruction of airflow provides supportive protection by dispersing the impact energy and transferring it to adjacent chambers. Attached Figure Description
[0033] To gain a more complete understanding of the invention, exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail in the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which similar reference numerals denote similar parts, and wherein: Figure 1 The outer side of the attachment in the unfolded configuration is shown; Figure 2 The inside of the attachment in the unfolded configuration is shown; Figure 3 The folded configuration is shown. Figure 1 , Figure 2 Front view of the attachment; Figure 4 The folded configuration is shown. Figure 1 , Figure 2 Top view of the attachment; Figure 5 The folded configuration is shown. Figure 1 , Figure 2 Side view of the attachment; Figure 6 The folded configuration is shown. Figure 1 , Figure 2 The rear view of the attachment; Figure 7 The folded configuration is shown. Figure 1 , Figure 2 A perspective view of the attachment, showing the flap open; Figure 8 The folded configuration is shown. Figure 1 , Figure 2 A perspective view of the attachment, showing the flap partially open; Figure 9 The folded configuration is shown. Figure 1 , Figure 2 Another perspective view of the attachment, in which the flap is open; Figure 10 The folded configuration is shown. Figure 1 , Figure 2 A perspective view of the attachment, in which the flap is closed; Figure 11 The golf bag is shown in its usage configuration. Figure 1 , Figure 2 Perspective view of the attachment; Figure 12 The golf bag is shown in its usage configuration. Figure 1 , Figure 2 Another perspective view of the attachment; Figure 13 The top cross-section in the inflatable configuration is shown; and Figure 14 A side cross-section in the inflated configuration is shown. Detailed Implementation
[0034] The accompanying drawings disclose an embodiment of a golf bag accessory 1, which can be secured to a golf bag 2 during use, and as shown... Figure 11 and Figure 12 As best shown in the image. Annex 1, in its preferred form, is a golf bag cap 1, comprising a center panel 5 having a base end 6, a top end 7, and a pair of side edges 8. A pair of side panels 10 extend from the center panel 5, each having a base end 11, a top end 12, a side edge 13 fixed to the side edge 8 of the center panel 5, and a free edge 14 away from the center panel 5. A top panel / flip panel 20 also extends from the center panel 5 and has a bottom end 21 connected to the top end 7 of the center panel 5, a free top end 22 away from the center panel 5, and a pair of free side edges 23. The top panel can be kept open during use, allowing golf clubs to be quickly changed during rain without exposing the casing. The free edges 14, 23, and the top end 12 have fasteners 30 that can be secured together during use to form a casing 40 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 7 To accommodate the golf club 50. Advantageously, one or more of the panels 5, 10, and 20 include an inflatable chamber 60 such that during use, the chamber 60, when inflated, secures the club 50 within the housing 40, as... Figure 13 , Figure 14 The best result is shown in the middle.
[0035] In a preferred embodiment, fastener 30 includes one or more zippers. The zipper extends continuously from the base end 11 to the free top end 22. In an alternative embodiment, fastener 30 may include a hook-and-loop fastener, a snap fastener, a magnet, etc. Panels 5, 10, and 20, when zipped together, form a cover 1 that can be attached to a golf bag 2. Cover 1 has an opening 61 through which a club 50 can be inserted into the housing 40.
[0036] The base end 11 also includes straps 70 and 71 for attaching the cover 1 to the golf bag 2 and / or to each other. In a preferred embodiment, strap 70 includes hook-and-loop fasteners that attach to each other to secure around the bag opening 61, and strap 71 includes snaps 73 and length adjustment members 72. Snaps 73 are attached to snaps 75 on the bag 2.
[0037] For details, please refer to the following: Figure 7 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 In the illustrated embodiment, panels 5, 10, and 20 consist of several layers, wherein the inner layer 90 includes one or more inflatable chambers 60, and the outer layer 91 is exposed to the weather. In a preferred form, the chambers 60 are connected together, and a valve 80 is located at the rear (see [link to previous embodiment]). Figure 6 This can be used to inflate chamber 60 and press the ball rods 50 together to secure them for transport. In an alternative embodiment, there may be more than one valve 80 and more than one chamber 60. Valve 80 includes an interface tube for manual inflation and / or may include the ability to be inflated by an inflation device such as a pump.
[0038] Although the preferred form mentioned above includes one enclosure and one chamber, it should be understood that multiple enclosures and multiple chambers can exist. For example, an "Inflatable Chamber Protection System" (ICPS) may be included, having a network of air units / chambers with a system that impedes airflow between these units / chambers to maximize the volume of air-cushioned protection during an impact. The ICPS maximizes the volume of air at the point of impact to increase cushioning during that initial impact. As the impact progresses, the airflow impediment is designed to provide supportive protection by dispersing the impact energy and transferring that energy to adjacent air units / chambers as air flows between them. The ICPS maximizes cushioning to prevent more severe impacts that would typically cause catastrophic damage to the contents of the enclosure. The air unit layout and inflation path significantly enhance the appropriate protection of critical items at specific locations within the enclosure where they are most vulnerable to damage. Inflation is specific to air only, not all liquids.
[0039] Advantageously, since the outer layer 91 of the cover 1 is waterproof, it also provides a rain cover for the golf club 50. Figure 7 As shown, the cover 1, with a top panel / flip-up 20, can be easily and quickly opened, allowing golfers to retrieve or return clubs 50 with minimal rainwater ingress into the housing 40. This is achieved through a double-zipper design with a fold-back section that supports the flip-up (top panel 20) when opened and closed. The cover 1 may also include a rear flip-up 100 (as shown in the image). Figure 12 (As best shown), to allow the carrying straps of the golf bag 2 to remain in place. The outer layer 91 is preferably 40D coated TPU. The inner layer 90 is preferably 0.3mm thick TPU, which is welded to the outer layer 91 along seam line 16 to create an inflatable chamber 60. If necessary, seam line 16 is heat-welded. A 30mm flap 32 is provided on the zipper 30 to help protect the zipper. The zipper will be sewn along the zipper path, ensuring that the inner flap is horizontally positioned below the cover flap.
[0040] In use, the opening 61 of the cover 1 is placed on the open end of the golf bag 2. At this stage, the top panel / flip-top 20 is pulled open. A strap 71 with snaps 73 is attached to snaps 75 on the bag 2. The straps 70 are then brought together to wrap around the end of the bag 2, thereby reducing the diameter of the cover and securing the cover 1 to the bag 2. The panel / flip-top 20 is then pulled up to close the outer casing 40. The user then uses the valve 80 to inflate the chamber 60 and squeeze the club 50 to ensure safe transport.
[0041] The various forms of the invention described above may have one or more of the following advantages. Due to this design, the product can be modified to include a towel lining (not shown) so that when folded, it can be suspended from the golf bag during play and function as a golf towel.
[0042] In a preferred form, the product has multiple interconnected air units or chambers to allow individual valves to be inflated and to impede airflow during use to enhance impact resilience.
[0043] Advantageously, in a preferred embodiment, the cap has airflow blocking features to increase impact resistance. The towel lining transforms into a hanging towel for use during sports. It is lightweight and easy to fold and store. It features a unique double-zipper design to allow easy access when used as a rain cap, so that during sports, the flap falls onto the clubs to keep them dry instead of pulling the zipper up and down. The cap is made of durable materials to withstand severe abrasion. The cap has a universal fitting mechanism to fit most industry-standard golf bags.
[0044] While specific embodiments of the invention have been shown and described herein, those skilled in the art will understand that various alternative and / or equivalent embodiments exist. It should be understood that one or more exemplary embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or construction in any way. Rather, the foregoing overview and detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient roadmap for implementing at least one exemplary embodiment, and it should be understood that various changes may be made to the function and arrangement of the elements described in the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope set forth in the appended claims and their legal equivalents. Generally, this application is intended to cover any modifications or variations to the specific embodiments discussed herein.
Claims
1. A golf bag accessory, which can be secured to a golf bag during use, the accessory having: A center panel having a base end, a top end, and a pair of side edges; a pair of side panels extending from the center panel, each having a base end, a top end, a side edge fixed to the side edge of the center panel, and a free edge away from the center panel; and a top panel extending from the center panel having a bottom end connected to the top end of the center panel, a free top end away from the center panel, and a pair of free side edges. The free edges of the side panel and the top panel have fasteners that can be secured together in use to form a housing for accommodating a golf club. One or more of the panels include an inflatable chamber such that, during use, the chamber, when inflated, secures the cue stick within the housing.
2. The golf bag accessory of claim 1, wherein the fastener comprises a zipper.
3. The golf bag accessory of claim 1, wherein the fastener comprises a hook-and-loop fastener.
4. The golf bag accessory of claim 1, wherein the fastener comprises one or more snaps.
5. The golf bag accessory of claim 1, wherein the fastener comprises one or more pairs of magnets.
6. The golf bag accessory of claim 2, wherein the zipper is continuous from the base end of the free edge of the side panel to the top end of the free edge of the top panel.
7. The golf bag accessory of claim 1, wherein each panel includes an inflatable chamber.
8. The golf bag accessory of claim 7, wherein the inflatable chamber is connected.
9. The golf bag accessory of claim 7 or 8, wherein one of the panels includes a valve to help inflate the chamber.
10. The golf bag accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the base ends, when formed together, provide an opening that is capable of being secured around an open end of the golf bag.
11. The golf bag accessory of claim 10, wherein the base end includes one or more straps to secure the cover to the golf bag.
12. The golf bag accessory of claim 11, wherein the strap includes a hook-and-loop fastener.
13. The golf bag accessory of claim 1, wherein in use, once the inflatable chamber is inflated, it reduces the space inside the bag chamber, thereby causing the clubs to be closer together and reducing the chance of movement during transport.
14. The golf bag accessory of claim 1, wherein the panel is waterproof.
15. The golf bag accessory of claim 2, wherein the golf bag accessory includes a double zipper design having a fold-back portion that supports the panel in use.
16. The golf bag accessory of claim 1, wherein the golf bag accessory comprises a plurality of chambers having a system that impedes airflow between the chambers to maximize the volume of air cushioning the club within the housing during impact.
17. The golf bag accessory of claim 16, wherein the volume of air at the point of impact increases the cushioning of the club during impact.
18. The golf bag accessory of claim 16 or 17, wherein as the impact occurs, the obstruction of airflow provides supportive protection by dispersing the impact energy and transferring the energy to adjacent chambers.