Pressure Sensor Sleeve for Golf Club Grip

Abstract

A sleeve for a golf club grip includes a body comprised of an elastic material. The body is configured to be stretched over a golf club grip and has a generally cylindrical shape. The body is configured to at least partially encapsulate the golf club grip. A sensor positioned on the body and configured to detect a force exerted on a body. The sleeve is configured to be slid over a golf club grip and coupled thereto.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to training equipment for golf and, in some embodiments, to a pressure sensor sleeve for a golf club grip for training a user to achieve a proper grip of a golf club.SUMMARY

[0002] In one embodiment, there is a sleeve for a golf club grip including a body comprised of an elastic material configured to be stretched over a golf club grip, the body having a generally cylindrical shape and configured to at least partially encapsulate the golf club grip, and a sensor positioned on the body and configured to detect a force exerted on a body, the sleeve is configured to be slid over a golf club grip and coupled thereto.

[0003] In some embodiments, the body is comprised of a textile including a first outer layer a second outer layer and a padding layer sandwiched between the first and second outer layers and the first and second outer layers include conductive fibers and the padding layer is comprised of non-conductive fibers. In some embodiments, the textile forms the sensor positioned on the body. In some embodiments, the body includes an interior surface defining an aperture configured to receive the golf club grip, the aperture being open at a distal end of the body, and a power source providing power to the sensors is positioned on the body at a proximal end thereof.

[0004] In some embodiments, the sleeve further comprises a communications module embedded in the body and in electrical communication with the power source and sensor, the communications module configured to receive electrical signals from the sensor that correspond to a pressure exerted on the body, convert the electrical signals into processed signals, and transmit the processed signals to an external device. In some embodiments, the communications module is configured to transmit the processed signal wirelessly.

[0005] In some embodiments, the sensor is a conductive fabric pressure sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor is a capacitive pressure sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor is a piezoresistive pressure sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor is a triboelectric pressure sensor. In some embodiments, the body includes an adhesive applied to an interior surface thereof. In some embodiments, the sensor includes a plurality of sensors arranged in a matrix pattern across the body.

[0006] In another embodiment, there is a sleeve for a golf club grip including a body comprised of an elastic material configured to be stretched over a golf club grip, the body having a generally cylindrical shape and configured to at least partially encapsulate the golf club grip, the body including an interior surface defining an aperture configured to receive the golf club grip, the aperture being open at a distal end of the body, a plurality of sensors positioned along the body in a matrix pattern and each sensor of the plurality of sensors configured to detect a force exerted on a body, a power source in electrical communication with the plurality of sensors, the power source positioned on the body at a proximal end thereof, and a communications module embedded in the body and in electrical communication with the power source and the plurality of sensors, the communications module configured to receive electrical signals from the plurality of sensors that correspond to a pressure exerted on the body, convert the electrical signals into processed signals, and transmit the processed signals to an external device, the sleeve is configured to be slid over a golf club grip and coupled thereto.

[0007] In some embodiments, the body is comprised of a textile including a first outer layer a second outer layer and a padding layer sandwiched between the first and second outer layers, and the first and second outer layers include conductive fibers and the padding layer is comprised of non-conductive fibers. In some embodiments, the textile forms the plurality of sensors. In some embodiments, the body includes an adhesive disposed on the interior surface thereof. In some embodiments, the plurality of sensors are a plurality of conductive fabric pressure sensors. In some embodiments, the plurality of sensors are a plurality of capacitive pressure sensors. In some embodiments, the plurality of sensors are a plurality of piezoresistive pressure sensors. In some embodiments, the plurality of sensors are a plurality of triboelectric pressure sensors.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The following detailed description of embodiments of the pressure sensor sleeve for a golf club grip, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings of an exemplary embodiment. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.

[0009] In the drawings:

[0010] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a pressure sensor sleeve in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure for use with a golf club;

[0011] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of the pressure sensor sleeve of FIG. 1;

[0012] FIG. 3 is a top elevational view of a textile or portion thereof for use with the pressure sensor sleeve of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0013] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the textile of FIG. 3 taken along the line 3-3.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] Incorrect hand placement and / or pressure exerted by a user's hands on a golf club grip is a common issue for players participating in play of golf. Existing training equipment to address these issues are often bulky and are typically not allowed in professional or tournament play. As such, an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a sleeve with pressure sensors that may be slid over an existing golf club grip and easily removed. In some embodiments, the sleeve of the present disclosure is configured to aid users in properly gripping a golf club.

[0015] Referring to the drawings in detail, wherein like reference numerals indicate like elements throughout, there is shown in FIGS. 1-4 a golf club pressure sensor sleeve, generally designated 100, and referred to as sleeve 100 for short, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 of the present disclosure includes sensors (e.g., pressure sensors, force sensors) configured to measure pressure exerted on a golf club grip by a user. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 of the present disclosure may be sized and / or shaped to at least partially cover an existing golf club grip. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to expand and / or contract to fit to a golf club grip. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 may be configured to fit over a golf club grip without substantially increasing the size of the grip. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to be securely coupled to a golf club grip to prevent shifting and / or slipping of the sleeve 100 relative to the grip during use (e.g., when swinging the golf club). In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to be removed form a golf club grip without damaging the grip and / or sleeve 100. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to for repeated uses across a variety of different golf club grips.

[0016] Referring to FIGS. 1-2, the sleeve 100 may include a body 102 configured to fit over the grip 12 of a golf club 10 and one or more pressure sensors 104 coupled to the body 102. The body 102 may include an interior surface 106 and an exterior surface 108 opposite the interior surface 106. The interior surface 106 may receive the grip 12 of a golf club 10. For example, the interior surface 106 may define an aperture 110 within which at least a portion of the grip 12 may be received. In some embodiments, the aperture 110 is accessible at an end of the body 102 such that the sleeve 100 may be slid over a golf club grip 12. The aperture 110 may be open at a distal end 112 of the body 102. In some embodiments, the aperture 110 is open at both the distal end 112 and proximal end 114 of the body 102. In other embodiments, the aperture 110 is open at the distal end 112 and is closed at the proximal end 114 of the body 102. For example, the body 102 may include a cover at the proximal end 114 thereof such that the there is no opening at the proximal end 114 through which a golf club grip 12 may extend.

[0017] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 includes markings or indicia along the outer surface 108 of the body 102 configured to aid a user in hand placement. In some embodiments, the markings may correspond to different hand placements along a golf club grip 12. For example, the outer surface 108 may include indicia (not shown) that illustrates to a user what hand placements are strong, weak, and neutral and / or what hand placements result in a draw, fade, and straight golf ball travel path. In other embodiments, the outer surface 108 is devoid of such indicia for aiding a user in hand placement. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 includes markings and / or indicia along the outer surface 108 to aid a user in placement of the sleeve 100 on a golf club grip 12. For example, the sleeve 100 may include alignment markers along the outer surface 108 that aid a user in orienting the sleeve 100 relative to the golf club grip 12.

[0018] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 may be coupled to the golf club grip 12 by positioning a proximal end 14 of the grip 12 in the opening of the aperture 110 at the distal end 112 of the body 102 and sliding the sleeve 100 over the grip 12 such that the proximal end 114 is moved towards the proximal end 14 of the grip 12. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 may be slid relative to the grip 12 until the proximal end 14 of the grip 12 abuts the proximal end 114 of the body 102. For example, a user, when placing the sleeve 100 on the grip 12 may slide the body 102 onto the grip 12 until the proximal ends 114, 14 of each abut one another.

[0019] In some embodiments, the interior surface 106 of the sleeve 100 abuts against the outer surface of the grip 12 when the sleeve 100 is coupled thereto. The interior surface 106 may include an adhesive configured to prevent shifting and / or slipping of the sleeve 100 relative to the grip 12 when in use (e.g., when swinging the golf club 10). In some embodiments, the interior surface 106 of the sleeve 100 is textured to provide friction between a grip 12 and the interior surface 106 sufficient to prevent shifting and / or slipping of the sleeve 100 relative to the grip 12.

[0020] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to be decoupled from the grip 12 without causing damage to the sleeve 100 and / or grip 12. The sleeve 100 may be removed from a grip 12 by pulling the sleeve 100 away from the grip 12. For example, the sleeve 100 may be pulled and / or slid away from the grip 12 such that the distal end 112 of the sleeve 100 translates away from the proximal end 14 of the grip 12. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured for repeated uses with golf club grips 12. A user may couple the sleeve 100 to a grip 12 for use of the sleeve 100 and decouple the sleeve 100 from the grip 12 for stowage of the sleeve 100 to be used at a later time as desired. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to be decoupled from a grip 12 without causing damage to the sleeve 100 and / or grip 12. For example, the sleeve 100 is removable from a grip 12 without requiring the sleeve to be cutting, tearing, deforming or otherwise rendering the sleeve 100 unusable for subsequent instances of use. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to be removed from a golf club grip 12 without altering the characteristics of the grip 12. For example, the sleeve 100 when removed from a grip 12 may not leave residue (e.g., adhesive residue) on or otherwise alter the physical characteristics of the grip 12 from which it was removed.

[0021] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is sized to be coupled to a golf club grip 12 while complying with standards and regulations related to golf club grip size for regulated play. The sleeve 100 may have a thickness selected such that, when coupled to a golf club grip 12, the grip 12 and attached sleeve 100 do not exceed a maximum allowable diameter for golf club grips. For example, when coupled to a grip that is circular in cross-section (e.g., a non putter grip), the combined sleeve 100 and grip do not exceed 1.75 inches in diameter as set forth by the United States Golf Association (USGA) equipment rules. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is not shaped or molded to the hand of a user in order to comply with USGA equipment rules.

[0022] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to match the contour of the golf club grip 12 when coupled thereto. The body 102 may be comprised of a generally elastic material such that the sleeve 100 may expand and / or contract when coupled to a golf club grip 12. In some embodiments the sleeve 100 is sized such that it fits tightly to a golf club grip 12. For example, the body 102 may be sized such that it expands from a first configuration to a second configuration when the body 102 is coupled to a grip 12. In the above example, the first configuration may be associated with the sleeve 100 prior to being slid onto a grip 12 and the second configuration may be associated with the sleeve after being slid onto the grip 12. The sleeve 100 may be retained against the grip 12 via frictional forces between the grip 12 and body 102. The frictional force between the sleeve 100 and grip 12 may be sufficient to prevent the sleeve 100 from accidentally decoupling from the grip 12 while allowing for the sleeve 100 to be intentionally removed from the grip 12. For example, a user may remove the sleeve 100 from the grip 12 by sliding the body 102 relative to the grip 12 until the two are decoupled.

[0023] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 may be used across a plurality of different golf club grips 12. The elastic material of the body 102 may allow the body 102 to generally conform to the shape of the golf club grip 12. Accordingly, the sleeve 100 may be coupled to a plurality of differently sized and / or shaped golf club grips 12. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to couple to golf club grips 12 that conform to a standard or expected shape. For example, a conventional golf club grip 12 is cylindrical in shape with a taper as the grip 12 extends away from the proximal end 14 thereof. Further to this example, the sleeve 100 may be generally cylindrical in shape prior to being coupled to the golf club grip 12. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is generally cylindrical in shape and tapered at one end (e.g., the distal end 112) to generally match the taper of a golf club grip 12. Additionally, golf club grips 12 may include ergonomic features such as ridges, textured patterns, and corded designs. The sleeve 100 may be configured to generally match the ergonomic features of a grip 12. For example, the elasticity of the body 102 may enable the body 102 to generally conform to the ergonomic shape and / or features of a golf club grip 12.

[0024] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to be slid over a golf club grip 12 such that a user may easily couple and decouple the sleeve 100 from the golf club grip 12 as desired. In this manner, a user may slide the sleeve 100 onto a golf club grip 12 to aid in training hand placement (e.g., grip technique) including proper hand placement and grip strength. As such, the user may practice with the sleeve 100 while using the golf club grip 12 they use during actual play rather than using a separate club or other training equipment, which may not be allowed during tournament or regular play.

[0025] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is sized to substantially enclose a grip 12. When coupled to a grip 12 the body 102 of the sleeve 100 may enclose therein a majority of the grip 12. For example, at least 90% of the outer surface of the grip 12 may be covered by the body 102 of sleeve 100. In some embodiments, at least 70% of the outer surface of the grip 12 may be covered by the body 102 of sleeve 100. In some embodiments, at least 75% of the outer surface of the grip 12 may be covered by the body 102 of sleeve 100. In some embodiments, at least 80% of the outer surface of the grip 12 may be covered by the body 102 of sleeve 100. In some embodiments, at least 85% of the outer surface of the grip 12 may be covered by the body 102 of sleeve 100. In some embodiments, at least 95% of the outer surface of the grip 12 may be covered by the body 102 of sleeve 100. In some embodiments, at least 99% of the outer surface of the grip 12 may be covered by the body 102 of sleeve 100. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to cover between about 60% to about 100% of the outer surface of a golf club grip 12 when coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to cover between about 65% to about 100% of the outer surface of a golf club grip 12 when coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to cover between about 70% to about 100% of the outer surface of a golf club grip 12 when coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to cover between about 75% to about 100% of the outer surface of a golf club grip 12 when coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to cover between about 80% to about 100% of the outer surface of a golf club grip 12 when coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to cover between about 85% to about 100% of the outer surface of a golf club grip 12 when coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to cover between about 90% to about 100% of the outer surface of a golf club grip 12 when coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to cover between about 90% to about 100% of the outer surface of a golf club grip 12 when coupled thereto.

[0026] The sleeve 100 may include a plurality of pressure sensors 104 configured to detect and / or measure force exerted on the sleeve 100. The pressure sensors 104 may be any suitable sensor configured to detect and / or measure a force exerted on the body 102. In some embodiments, the sensors 104 may be piezoresistive pressure sensors. In some embodiments, the sensors 104 may be tactile sensors configured to detect and measure forces along the outer surface 108 of the body 102. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 includes pressure sensor(s) 104 suitable for detecting and / or measuring forces along a substantial portion of the body 102. Sensors 104 may be configured to detect pressure exerted on the sleeve 100 and convert the detected pressure into electrical signals that may be transmitted to devices other than the sensors 104 for data transformation and / or processing. Sensors 104 may be disposed along a substantial portion of the body 102 such that tactile sensing may be performed across a substantial portion of the outer surface 108. In some embodiments, the sensors 104 are disposed along body 102 such that tactile sensing may be performed across at least 80% of the outer surface 108 thereof. In some embodiments, the sensors 104 are disposed along body 102 such that tactile sensing may be performed across between about 60% to about 95% of the outer surface 108 thereof.

[0027] In some embodiments, the sensors 104 may be configured to provide a visual indication to a user of the force they exert on the golf club grip. In some embodiments, the sensors 104 are in communication with corresponding light sources. The sensors 104 may be configured to cause the light sources to generate a visible light. For example, an excessive force detected at a sensor 104 may cause the corresponding light source to emit a red colored light whereas a lesser force may result in the light source emitting a blue colored light. The emitted light may be visible to a user such that it appears on portions of the outer surface 108 of body 102. Accordingly, the user may view the color at the outer surface 108 and receive an immediate visual indication of whether their grip pressure is correct or incorrect. In some embodiments, the light sources may be located along the body 102 at generally the same locations as the sensors 104 which they are in communication with.

[0028] In some embodiments, the force detection and / or measurements obtained by sensors 104 may be transmitted to an external device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, laptop computer, desktop computer) such that a user may view the measurements on that external device and adjust their grip strength accordingly. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 includes a communications module 116 in communication with the sensors 104 and configured to receive and transmit data generated by the sensors 104 to an external device. The external device may be a computing device other than the sleeve 100 that is in communication with the communications module 116. In some embodiments, the communications module 116 is configured to transmit data to an external device via any suitable wireless communication means (e.g., radio signals, Bluetooth™, cellular networks, Wi-Fi). In some embodiments, the communications module 116 is coupled to body 102. In some embodiments, the communications module 116 is embedded within the body 102. In some embodiments, the communications module 116 includes an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) configured to manage the receipt and transmission of data generated by sensors 104. In some embodiments, the communications module 116 is electrically connected to each of sensors 104.

[0029] The communications module 116 may be configured to convert electrical signals received from the sensors into a format suitable for transmission to an external device. The communications module 116 may include one or more transducers configured to receive the electrical signals generated by the sensors 104 and generate a processed signal by converting the electrical signals into a format suitable for wireless transmission. For example, the processed signal may be in a format suitable for wireless transmission via Bluetooth™, Wi-Fi, radio signal or another wireless communication protocol. The communications module 116 may be configured to transmit the processed signals to the external device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, personal computing device) which may have installed thereon hardware capable of receiving the processed signal. The external device may also include software (e.g., a mobile software application) configured to interpret data included in the processed signal and render the interpreted data on a display screen coupled to the external device. For example, the processed signal may include data corresponding to the pressure data generated by the pressure sensors and the external device interprets that data into a value (e.g., a numerical value), which is rendered at a display screen thereof. Accordingly, the sleeve 100 of the present disclosure may be configured to wirelessly transmit data corresponding to detected pressure exerted on the sleeve 100 to an external device, which allows the user to monitor and adjust the pressure they exert on the sleeve 100 and grip 12 in real time.

[0030] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 includes a power source 118 configured to transmit power to communications module 116 and / or sensors 104. The power source 118 may be coupled to the body 102. In some embodiments, the power source 118 is embedded within the body 102. In some embodiments, the power source 118 is in electrical communication with the communications module 116 and / or sensors 104. The power source 118 may be fixedly coupled to the body 102. In other embodiments, the power source 118 is detachable from body 102. In some embodiments, the power source 118 is a rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the power source 118 is a coin cell battery embedded in the body 102. In some embodiments, the power source 118 is a lithium coin cell battery. In some embodiments, the power source 118 and / or communications module 116 are positioned along the body 102 at the proximal end 114 thereof. For example, the power source 118 and / or communications module 116 are embedded in the body 102 at the proximal end 114 thereof where the body 102 covers the aperture 110. In some embodiments, the power source 118 and / or communications module 116 are positioned along the body 102 where a user is unlikely to grip the sleeve 100 during use with a golf club grip 12. For example, the power source 118 and / or communications module 116 are not positioned along the sidewall of the body 102 that extends between the proximal 114 and distal ends 112 thereof.

[0031] In some embodiments, the sensors 104 are embedded within body 102. In other embodiments, the sensors 104 are positioned along the outer surface 108 or inner surface 106 thereof. In some embodiments, the sensors 104 are integrally formed with a textile fabric used to form the body 102.

[0032] Referring to FIGS. 2-4, the sleeve 100 may include a textile, generally designated 20, that may form the body 102 and / or sensors 104 thereof. The textile 20 illustrated in FIGS. 3-4 may be a portion of a fabric sheet used in the manufacture of sleeve 100. In some embodiments, the textile 20 includes a first outer layer 22, a second outer layer 24 and a padding layer 26 sandwiched between the outer layers 22, 24. The padding layer 26 may provide rebound properties to the textile 20 and the outer layers 22, 24 may provide for the appearance and tactile feedback of the textile 20.

[0033] In some embodiments, the textile 20 is a knitted conductive textile contact switch configured to act as sensor(s) 104 and at least partially form the body 102 of the sleeve 100. The textile 20 may be a textile pressure sensor, such as, but not limited to, a force-sensing resistor (FSR) or a piezo-resistive fabric. The textile 20 may be configured to detect changes in pressure along the textile and convert the change in pressure into an electrical signal. In some embodiments, the textile 20 is embedded within the sleeve 100. For example, one or more layers of fabric may encapsulate the textile 20 to form the sleeve 100. The outer layers 22, 24 may be comprised of a conductive material and the padding layer 26 may be comprised of an electrically resistive or non-conductive material. For example, outer conductive layers 22, 24 include electrically conductive fibers whereas padding layer 26 is comprised of non-conductive fibers. The padding layer 26 may separate the outer layers 22, 24 from one another. In some embodiments, the textile 20 includes an open monofilament structure to permit air flow and low moisture retention

[0034] In some embodiments, the padding layer 26 does not entirely cover the layers 22, 24. The padding layer 26 may contact one surface of each of the outer layers 22, 24. The padding layer 26 may include gaps or openings extending between the outer layers 22, 24 such that portions of the layers 22, 24 are not covered by the padding layer 26. For example, and as illustrated in FIG. 3, the portions of the outer layers 22, 24 in contact with the padding layer 26 are illustrated by the areas with a diagonal line fill. Accordingly, the textile 20 may include open areas (e.g., the areas in FIG. 3 devoid of the diagonal line fill) where devoid of the padding layer 26. In some embodiments, a layer of non-conductive material is provided between the outer layers 22, 24 in at least the areas devoid of padding layer 26 to prevent the outer layers 22, 24 from directly contacting one another. In some embodiments, textile 20 includes a plurality of pressure sensing areas (e.g., the open areas in FIG. 3). In some embodiments, the pressure sensing areas of the textile 20 are resistive sensors configured to change in electrical resistance in response to a pressure exerted thereon. In some embodiments, the pressure sensing areas of the textile 20 are capacitive sensors configured to change in capacitance in response to a pressure exerted thereon. The changes in resistance and / or capacitance of the pressure sensing areas may be detectable at an electronic circuit (e.g., a circuit included in the communications module 116). The textile 20, when included in the sleeve 100 may be in electrical communication with the communications module 116.

[0035] In some embodiments, the pressure sensing areas of the textile 20 may be arranged such that they provide substantial coverage over the outer surface of a golf club grip 12. As illustrated in FIG. 3, pressure sensing areas of the textile 20 may be arranged in a matrix pattern (e.g., a checkerboard pattern). In some embodiments, the matrix pattern of the pressure sensing areas allow for multiple contact points between the fibers of the textile 20, which may increase the sensitivity of the textile 20 to changes in pressure. As the sensitivity to changes in pressure of the textile 20 increases, the precision of pressure measurements obtained therefrom may also increase. In some embodiments, the matrix pattern of the pressure sensing areas of the textile 20 may allow the textile 20 to maintain flexibility and conform to various shapes and surfaces without compromising the pressure sensing capabilities thereof.

[0036] In some embodiments, the matrix pattern for the pressure sensing areas of the textile 20 aids in resisting repeated loads and stresses exerted on the textile 20. For example, when in use with the sleeve 100, the textile 20 may resist repeated stretching, compressing, bending and / or other mechanical stresses. In some embodiments, the matrix pattern for the pressure sensing areas of textile 20 may enable the textile 20 to be used in different sized and / or shaped applications such as differently sized and / or shaped sleeves 100. In some embodiments, the arrangement of the pressure sensing areas of textile 20 improve signal-to-noise ratio, which improves the accuracy of pressure measurements obtained therefrom.

[0037] In some embodiments, the padding layer 26 includes gaps that are symmetrically or asymmetrically positioned. For example, in FIG. 3 the padding layer 26 defines gaps that form a checkerboard like pattern. However, in other embodiments, the padding layer 26 may define gaps that form different patterns, shapes or the like. In other embodiments, the textile 20 may include outer conductive layers 22, 24 and a padding layer 26 that is substantially devoid of gaps. In some embodiments, the padding layer 26 entirely covers one face of the outer conductive layers 22, 24. In some embodiments, the outer layers 22, 24 and / or padding layer 26 include elastic fibers. In some embodiments, the textile 20 may include one or more fabrics encapsulating layers 22, 24, 26 and selected to achieve a desired tactile feel and / or appearance of the sleeve 100. In some embodiments, the textile 20 has a thickness of about 0.05 inches. In some embodiments, the textile 20 has a thickness of between about 0.03 inches to about 0.08 inches. In some embodiments, the textile 20 has a thickness of between about 0.04 inches to about 0.07 inches.

[0038] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 includes pressure sensors 104 other than those included in the textile 20. The sleeve 100 may include pressure sensors 104 arranged in a matrix pattern similar to that described above for textile 20. In some embodiments, the pressure sensors 104 include one or more of capacitive pressure sensors, piezoresistive pressure sensors, conductive fabric pressure sensors, and triboelectric pressure sensors. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 has a thickness of about 0.05 inches. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 has a thickness of between about 0.04 inches to about 0.1 inches. In some embodiments, the textile 20 has a thickness of between about 0.05 inches to about 0.09 inches. In some embodiments, the textile 20 has a thickness of between about 0.06 inches to about 0.08 inches.

[0039] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could be made to the exemplary embodiment shown and described above without departing from the broad inventive concepts thereof. It is to be understood that the embodiments and claims disclosed herein are not limited in their application to the details of construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the description and illustrated in the drawings. Rather, the description and the drawings provide examples of the embodiments envisioned. The embodiments and claims disclosed herein are further capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways.

[0040] Specific features of the exemplary embodiments may or may not be part of the claimed invention and various features of the disclosed embodiments may be combined. Unless specifically set forth herein, the terms “a”, “an” and “the” are not limited to one element but instead should be read as meaning “at least one”. Finally, unless specifically set forth herein, a disclosed or claimed method should not be limited to the performance of their steps in the order written, and one skilled in the art can readily appreciate that the steps may be performed in any practical order.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0014]Incorrect hand placement and / or pressure exerted by a user's hands on a golf club grip is a common issue for players participating in play of golf. Existing training equipment to address these issues are often bulky and are typically not allowed in professional or tournament play. As such, an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a sleeve with pressure sensors that may be slid over an existing golf club grip and easily removed. In some embodiments, the sleeve of the present disclosure is configured to aid users in properly gripping a golf club.

[0015]Referring to the drawings in detail, wherein like reference numerals indicate like elements throughout, there is shown in FIGS. 1-4 a golf club pressure sensor sleeve, generally designated 100, and referred to as sleeve 100 for short, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 of the present disclosure includes sensors (e.g., pressure sensors, force sensors) conf...

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to training equipment for golf and, in some embodiments, to a pressure sensor sleeve for a golf club grip for training a user to achieve a proper grip of a golf club.SUMMARY

[0002] In one embodiment, there is a sleeve for a golf club grip including a body comprised of an elastic material configured to be stretched over a golf club grip, the body having a generally cylindrical shape and configured to at least partially encapsulate the golf club grip, and a sensor positioned on the body and configured to detect a force exerted on a body, the sleeve is configured to be slid over a golf club grip and coupled thereto.

[0003] In some embodiments, the body is comprised of a textile including a first outer layer a second outer layer and a padding layer sandwiched between the first and second outer layers and the first and second outer layers include conductive fibers and the padding layer is comprised of non-conductive fibers. In some embodiments, the textile forms the sensor positioned on the body. In some embodiments, the body includes an interior surface defining an aperture configured to receive the golf club grip, the aperture being open at a distal end of the body, and a power source providing power to the sensors is positioned on the body at a proximal end thereof.

[0004] In some embodiments, the sleeve further comprises a communications module embedded in the body and in electrical communication with the power source and sensor, the communications module configured to receive electrical signals from the sensor that correspond to a pressure exerted on the body, convert the electrical signals into processed signals, and transmit the processed signals to an external device. In some embodiments, the communications module is configured to transmit the processed signal wirelessly.

[0005] In some embodiments, the sensor is a conductive fabric pressure sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor is a capacitive pressure sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor is a piezoresistive pressure sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor is a triboelectric pressure sensor. In some embodiments, the body includes an adhesive applied to an interior surface thereof. In some embodiments, the sensor includes a plurality of sensors arranged in a matrix pattern across the body.

[0006] In another embodiment, there is a sleeve for a golf club grip including a body comprised of an elastic material configured to be stretched over a golf club grip, the body having a generally cylindrical shape and configured to at least partially encapsulate the golf club grip, the body including an interior surface defining an aperture configured to receive the golf club grip, the aperture being open at a distal end of the body, a plurality of sensors positioned along the body in a matrix pattern and each sensor of the plurality of sensors configured to detect a force exerted on a body, a power source in electrical communication with the plurality of sensors, the power source positioned on the body at a proximal end thereof, and a communications module embedded in the body and in electrical communication with the power source and the plurality of sensors, the communications module configured to receive electrical signals from the plurality of sensors that correspond to a pressure exerted on the body, convert the electrical signals into processed signals, and transmit the processed signals to an external device, the sleeve is configured to be slid over a golf club grip and coupled thereto.

[0007] In some embodiments, the body is comprised of a textile including a first outer layer a second outer layer and a padding layer sandwiched between the first and second outer layers, and the first and second outer layers include conductive fibers and the padding layer is comprised of non-conductive fibers. In some embodiments, the textile forms the plurality of sensors. In some embodiments, the body includes an adhesive disposed on the interior surface thereof. In some embodiments, the plurality of sensors are a plurality of conductive fabric pressure sensors. In some embodiments, the plurality of sensors are a plurality of capacitive pressure sensors. In some embodiments, the plurality of sensors are a plurality of piezoresistive pressure sensors. In some embodiments, the plurality of sensors are a plurality of triboelectric pressure sensors.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The following detailed description of embodiments of the pressure sensor sleeve for a golf club grip, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings of an exemplary embodiment. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.

[0009] In the drawings:

[0010] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a pressure sensor sleeve in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure for use with a golf club;

[0011] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of the pressure sensor sleeve of FIG. 1;

[0012] FIG. 3 is a top elevational view of a textile or portion thereof for use with the pressure sensor sleeve of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0013] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the textile of FIG. 3 taken along the line 3-3.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] Incorrect hand placement and / or pressure exerted by a user's hands on a golf club grip is a common issue for players participating in play of golf. Existing training equipment to address these issues are often bulky and are typically not allowed in professional or tournament play. As such, an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a sleeve with pressure sensors that may be slid over an existing golf club grip and easily removed. In some embodiments, the sleeve of the present disclosure is configured to aid users in properly gripping a golf club.

[0015] Referring to the drawings in detail, wherein like reference numerals indicate like elements throughout, there is shown in FIGS. 1-4 a golf club pressure sensor sleeve, generally designated 100, and referred to as sleeve 100 for short, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 of the present disclosure includes sensors (e.g., pressure sensors, force sensors) configured to measure pressure exerted on a golf club grip by a user. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 of the present disclosure may be sized and / or shaped to at least partially cover an existing golf club grip. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to expand and / or contract to fit to a golf club grip. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 may be configured to fit over a golf club grip without substantially increasing the size of the grip. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to be securely coupled to a golf club grip to prevent shifting and / or slipping of the sleeve 100 relative to the grip during use (e.g., when swinging the golf club). In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to be removed form a golf club grip without damaging the grip and / or sleeve 100. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to for repeated uses across a variety of different golf club grips.

[0016] Referring to FIGS. 1-2, the sleeve 100 may include a body 102 configured to fit over the grip 12 of a golf club 10 and one or more pressure sensors 104 coupled to the body 102. The body 102 may include an interior surface 106 and an exterior surface 108 opposite the interior surface 106. The interior surface 106 may receive the grip 12 of a golf club 10. For example, the interior surface 106 may define an aperture 110 within which at least a portion of the grip 12 may be received. In some embodiments, the aperture 110 is accessible at an end of the body 102 such that the sleeve 100 may be slid over a golf club grip 12. The aperture 110 may be open at a distal end 112 of the body 102. In some embodiments, the aperture 110 is open at both the distal end 112 and proximal end 114 of the body 102. In other embodiments, the aperture 110 is open at the distal end 112 and is closed at the proximal end 114 of the body 102. For example, the body 102 may include a cover at the proximal end 114 thereof such that the there is no opening at the proximal end 114 through which a golf club grip 12 may extend.

[0017] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 includes markings or indicia along the outer surface 108 of the body 102 configured to aid a user in hand placement. In some embodiments, the markings may correspond to different hand placements along a golf club grip 12. For example, the outer surface 108 may include indicia (not shown) that illustrates to a user what hand placements are strong, weak, and neutral and / or what hand placements result in a draw, fade, and straight golf ball travel path. In other embodiments, the outer surface 108 is devoid of such indicia for aiding a user in hand placement. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 includes markings and / or indicia along the outer surface 108 to aid a user in placement of the sleeve 100 on a golf club grip 12. For example, the sleeve 100 may include alignment markers along the outer surface 108 that aid a user in orienting the sleeve 100 relative to the golf club grip 12.

[0018] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 may be coupled to the golf club grip 12 by positioning a proximal end 14 of the grip 12 in the opening of the aperture 110 at the distal end 112 of the body 102 and sliding the sleeve 100 over the grip 12 such that the proximal end 114 is moved towards the proximal end 14 of the grip 12. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 may be slid relative to the grip 12 until the proximal end 14 of the grip 12 abuts the proximal end 114 of the body 102. For example, a user, when placing the sleeve 100 on the grip 12 may slide the body 102 onto the grip 12 until the proximal ends 114, 14 of each abut one another.

[0019] In some embodiments, the interior surface 106 of the sleeve 100 abuts against the outer surface of the grip 12 when the sleeve 100 is coupled thereto. The interior surface 106 may include an adhesive configured to prevent shifting and / or slipping of the sleeve 100 relative to the grip 12 when in use (e.g., when swinging the golf club 10). In some embodiments, the interior surface 106 of the sleeve 100 is textured to provide friction between a grip 12 and the interior surface 106 sufficient to prevent shifting and / or slipping of the sleeve 100 relative to the grip 12.

[0020] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to be decoupled from the grip 12 without causing damage to the sleeve 100 and / or grip 12. The sleeve 100 may be removed from a grip 12 by pulling the sleeve 100 away from the grip 12. For example, the sleeve 100 may be pulled and / or slid away from the grip 12 such that the distal end 112 of the sleeve 100 translates away from the proximal end 14 of the grip 12. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured for repeated uses with golf club grips 12. A user may couple the sleeve 100 to a grip 12 for use of the sleeve 100 and decouple the sleeve 100 from the grip 12 for stowage of the sleeve 100 to be used at a later time as desired. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to be decoupled from a grip 12 without causing damage to the sleeve 100 and / or grip 12. For example, the sleeve 100 is removable from a grip 12 without requiring the sleeve to be cutting, tearing, deforming or otherwise rendering the sleeve 100 unusable for subsequent instances of use. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to be removed from a golf club grip 12 without altering the characteristics of the grip 12. For example, the sleeve 100 when removed from a grip 12 may not leave residue (e.g., adhesive residue) on or otherwise alter the physical characteristics of the grip 12 from which it was removed.

[0021] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is sized to be coupled to a golf club grip 12 while complying with standards and regulations related to golf club grip size for regulated play. The sleeve 100 may have a thickness selected such that, when coupled to a golf club grip 12, the grip 12 and attached sleeve 100 do not exceed a maximum allowable diameter for golf club grips. For example, when coupled to a grip that is circular in cross-section (e.g., a non putter grip), the combined sleeve 100 and grip do not exceed 1.75 inches in diameter as set forth by the United States Golf Association (USGA) equipment rules. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is not shaped or molded to the hand of a user in order to comply with USGA equipment rules.

[0022] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to match the contour of the golf club grip 12 when coupled thereto. The body 102 may be comprised of a generally elastic material such that the sleeve 100 may expand and / or contract when coupled to a golf club grip 12. In some embodiments the sleeve 100 is sized such that it fits tightly to a golf club grip 12. For example, the body 102 may be sized such that it expands from a first configuration to a second configuration when the body 102 is coupled to a grip 12. In the above example, the first configuration may be associated with the sleeve 100 prior to being slid onto a grip 12 and the second configuration may be associated with the sleeve after being slid onto the grip 12. The sleeve 100 may be retained against the grip 12 via frictional forces between the grip 12 and body 102. The frictional force between the sleeve 100 and grip 12 may be sufficient to prevent the sleeve 100 from accidentally decoupling from the grip 12 while allowing for the sleeve 100 to be intentionally removed from the grip 12. For example, a user may remove the sleeve 100 from the grip 12 by sliding the body 102 relative to the grip 12 until the two are decoupled.

[0023] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 may be used across a plurality of different golf club grips 12. The elastic material of the body 102 may allow the body 102 to generally conform to the shape of the golf club grip 12. Accordingly, the sleeve 100 may be coupled to a plurality of differently sized and / or shaped golf club grips 12. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to couple to golf club grips 12 that conform to a standard or expected shape. For example, a conventional golf club grip 12 is cylindrical in shape with a taper as the grip 12 extends away from the proximal end 14 thereof. Further to this example, the sleeve 100 may be generally cylindrical in shape prior to being coupled to the golf club grip 12. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is generally cylindrical in shape and tapered at one end (e.g., the distal end 112) to generally match the taper of a golf club grip 12. Additionally, golf club grips 12 may include ergonomic features such as ridges, textured patterns, and corded designs. The sleeve 100 may be configured to generally match the ergonomic features of a grip 12. For example, the elasticity of the body 102 may enable the body 102 to generally conform to the ergonomic shape and / or features of a golf club grip 12.

[0024] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to be slid over a golf club grip 12 such that a user may easily couple and decouple the sleeve 100 from the golf club grip 12 as desired. In this manner, a user may slide the sleeve 100 onto a golf club grip 12 to aid in training hand placement (e.g., grip technique) including proper hand placement and grip strength. As such, the user may practice with the sleeve 100 while using the golf club grip 12 they use during actual play rather than using a separate club or other training equipment, which may not be allowed during tournament or regular play.

[0025] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is sized to substantially enclose a grip 12. When coupled to a grip 12 the body 102 of the sleeve 100 may enclose therein a majority of the grip 12. For example, at least 90% of the outer surface of the grip 12 may be covered by the body 102 of sleeve 100. In some embodiments, at least 70% of the outer surface of the grip 12 may be covered by the body 102 of sleeve 100. In some embodiments, at least 75% of the outer surface of the grip 12 may be covered by the body 102 of sleeve 100. In some embodiments, at least 80% of the outer surface of the grip 12 may be covered by the body 102 of sleeve 100. In some embodiments, at least 85% of the outer surface of the grip 12 may be covered by the body 102 of sleeve 100. In some embodiments, at least 95% of the outer surface of the grip 12 may be covered by the body 102 of sleeve 100. In some embodiments, at least 99% of the outer surface of the grip 12 may be covered by the body 102 of sleeve 100. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to cover between about 60% to about 100% of the outer surface of a golf club grip 12 when coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to cover between about 65% to about 100% of the outer surface of a golf club grip 12 when coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to cover between about 70% to about 100% of the outer surface of a golf club grip 12 when coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to cover between about 75% to about 100% of the outer surface of a golf club grip 12 when coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to cover between about 80% to about 100% of the outer surface of a golf club grip 12 when coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to cover between about 85% to about 100% of the outer surface of a golf club grip 12 when coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to cover between about 90% to about 100% of the outer surface of a golf club grip 12 when coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 is configured to cover between about 90% to about 100% of the outer surface of a golf club grip 12 when coupled thereto.

[0026] The sleeve 100 may include a plurality of pressure sensors 104 configured to detect and / or measure force exerted on the sleeve 100. The pressure sensors 104 may be any suitable sensor configured to detect and / or measure a force exerted on the body 102. In some embodiments, the sensors 104 may be piezoresistive pressure sensors. In some embodiments, the sensors 104 may be tactile sensors configured to detect and measure forces along the outer surface 108 of the body 102. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 includes pressure sensor(s) 104 suitable for detecting and / or measuring forces along a substantial portion of the body 102. Sensors 104 may be configured to detect pressure exerted on the sleeve 100 and convert the detected pressure into electrical signals that may be transmitted to devices other than the sensors 104 for data transformation and / or processing. Sensors 104 may be disposed along a substantial portion of the body 102 such that tactile sensing may be performed across a substantial portion of the outer surface 108. In some embodiments, the sensors 104 are disposed along body 102 such that tactile sensing may be performed across at least 80% of the outer surface 108 thereof. In some embodiments, the sensors 104 are disposed along body 102 such that tactile sensing may be performed across between about 60% to about 95% of the outer surface 108 thereof.

[0027] In some embodiments, the sensors 104 may be configured to provide a visual indication to a user of the force they exert on the golf club grip. In some embodiments, the sensors 104 are in communication with corresponding light sources. The sensors 104 may be configured to cause the light sources to generate a visible light. For example, an excessive force detected at a sensor 104 may cause the corresponding light source to emit a red colored light whereas a lesser force may result in the light source emitting a blue colored light. The emitted light may be visible to a user such that it appears on portions of the outer surface 108 of body 102. Accordingly, the user may view the color at the outer surface 108 and receive an immediate visual indication of whether their grip pressure is correct or incorrect. In some embodiments, the light sources may be located along the body 102 at generally the same locations as the sensors 104 which they are in communication with.

[0028] In some embodiments, the force detection and / or measurements obtained by sensors 104 may be transmitted to an external device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, laptop computer, desktop computer) such that a user may view the measurements on that external device and adjust their grip strength accordingly. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 includes a communications module 116 in communication with the sensors 104 and configured to receive and transmit data generated by the sensors 104 to an external device. The external device may be a computing device other than the sleeve 100 that is in communication with the communications module 116. In some embodiments, the communications module 116 is configured to transmit data to an external device via any suitable wireless communication means (e.g., radio signals, Bluetooth™, cellular networks, Wi-Fi). In some embodiments, the communications module 116 is coupled to body 102. In some embodiments, the communications module 116 is embedded within the body 102. In some embodiments, the communications module 116 includes an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) configured to manage the receipt and transmission of data generated by sensors 104. In some embodiments, the communications module 116 is electrically connected to each of sensors 104.

[0029] The communications module 116 may be configured to convert electrical signals received from the sensors into a format suitable for transmission to an external device. The communications module 116 may include one or more transducers configured to receive the electrical signals generated by the sensors 104 and generate a processed signal by converting the electrical signals into a format suitable for wireless transmission. For example, the processed signal may be in a format suitable for wireless transmission via Bluetooth™, Wi-Fi, radio signal or another wireless communication protocol. The communications module 116 may be configured to transmit the processed signals to the external device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, personal computing device) which may have installed thereon hardware capable of receiving the processed signal. The external device may also include software (e.g., a mobile software application) configured to interpret data included in the processed signal and render the interpreted data on a display screen coupled to the external device. For example, the processed signal may include data corresponding to the pressure data generated by the pressure sensors and the external device interprets that data into a value (e.g., a numerical value), which is rendered at a display screen thereof. Accordingly, the sleeve 100 of the present disclosure may be configured to wirelessly transmit data corresponding to detected pressure exerted on the sleeve 100 to an external device, which allows the user to monitor and adjust the pressure they exert on the sleeve 100 and grip 12 in real time.

[0030] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 includes a power source 118 configured to transmit power to communications module 116 and / or sensors 104. The power source 118 may be coupled to the body 102. In some embodiments, the power source 118 is embedded within the body 102. In some embodiments, the power source 118 is in electrical communication with the communications module 116 and / or sensors 104. The power source 118 may be fixedly coupled to the body 102. In other embodiments, the power source 118 is detachable from body 102. In some embodiments, the power source 118 is a rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the power source 118 is a coin cell battery embedded in the body 102. In some embodiments, the power source 118 is a lithium coin cell battery. In some embodiments, the power source 118 and / or communications module 116 are positioned along the body 102 at the proximal end 114 thereof. For example, the power source 118 and / or communications module 116 are embedded in the body 102 at the proximal end 114 thereof where the body 102 covers the aperture 110. In some embodiments, the power source 118 and / or communications module 116 are positioned along the body 102 where a user is unlikely to grip the sleeve 100 during use with a golf club grip 12. For example, the power source 118 and / or communications module 116 are not positioned along the sidewall of the body 102 that extends between the proximal 114 and distal ends 112 thereof.

[0031] In some embodiments, the sensors 104 are embedded within body 102. In other embodiments, the sensors 104 are positioned along the outer surface 108 or inner surface 106 thereof. In some embodiments, the sensors 104 are integrally formed with a textile fabric used to form the body 102.

[0032] Referring to FIGS. 2-4, the sleeve 100 may include a textile, generally designated 20, that may form the body 102 and / or sensors 104 thereof. The textile 20 illustrated in FIGS. 3-4 may be a portion of a fabric sheet used in the manufacture of sleeve 100. In some embodiments, the textile 20 includes a first outer layer 22, a second outer layer 24 and a padding layer 26 sandwiched between the outer layers 22, 24. The padding layer 26 may provide rebound properties to the textile 20 and the outer layers 22, 24 may provide for the appearance and tactile feedback of the textile 20.

[0033] In some embodiments, the textile 20 is a knitted conductive textile contact switch configured to act as sensor(s) 104 and at least partially form the body 102 of the sleeve 100. The textile 20 may be a textile pressure sensor, such as, but not limited to, a force-sensing resistor (FSR) or a piezo-resistive fabric. The textile 20 may be configured to detect changes in pressure along the textile and convert the change in pressure into an electrical signal. In some embodiments, the textile 20 is embedded within the sleeve 100. For example, one or more layers of fabric may encapsulate the textile 20 to form the sleeve 100. The outer layers 22, 24 may be comprised of a conductive material and the padding layer 26 may be comprised of an electrically resistive or non-conductive material. For example, outer conductive layers 22, 24 include electrically conductive fibers whereas padding layer 26 is comprised of non-conductive fibers. The padding layer 26 may separate the outer layers 22, 24 from one another. In some embodiments, the textile 20 includes an open monofilament structure to permit air flow and low moisture retention

[0034] In some embodiments, the padding layer 26 does not entirely cover the layers 22, 24. The padding layer 26 may contact one surface of each of the outer layers 22, 24. The padding layer 26 may include gaps or openings extending between the outer layers 22, 24 such that portions of the layers 22, 24 are not covered by the padding layer 26. For example, and as illustrated in FIG. 3, the portions of the outer layers 22, 24 in contact with the padding layer 26 are illustrated by the areas with a diagonal line fill. Accordingly, the textile 20 may include open areas (e.g., the areas in FIG. 3 devoid of the diagonal line fill) where devoid of the padding layer 26. In some embodiments, a layer of non-conductive material is provided between the outer layers 22, 24 in at least the areas devoid of padding layer 26 to prevent the outer layers 22, 24 from directly contacting one another. In some embodiments, textile 20 includes a plurality of pressure sensing areas (e.g., the open areas in FIG. 3). In some embodiments, the pressure sensing areas of the textile 20 are resistive sensors configured to change in electrical resistance in response to a pressure exerted thereon. In some embodiments, the pressure sensing areas of the textile 20 are capacitive sensors configured to change in capacitance in response to a pressure exerted thereon. The changes in resistance and / or capacitance of the pressure sensing areas may be detectable at an electronic circuit (e.g., a circuit included in the communications module 116). The textile 20, when included in the sleeve 100 may be in electrical communication with the communications module 116.

[0035] In some embodiments, the pressure sensing areas of the textile 20 may be arranged such that they provide substantial coverage over the outer surface of a golf club grip 12. As illustrated in FIG. 3, pressure sensing areas of the textile 20 may be arranged in a matrix pattern (e.g., a checkerboard pattern). In some embodiments, the matrix pattern of the pressure sensing areas allow for multiple contact points between the fibers of the textile 20, which may increase the sensitivity of the textile 20 to changes in pressure. As the sensitivity to changes in pressure of the textile 20 increases, the precision of pressure measurements obtained therefrom may also increase. In some embodiments, the matrix pattern of the pressure sensing areas of the textile 20 may allow the textile 20 to maintain flexibility and conform to various shapes and surfaces without compromising the pressure sensing capabilities thereof.

[0036] In some embodiments, the matrix pattern for the pressure sensing areas of the textile 20 aids in resisting repeated loads and stresses exerted on the textile 20. For example, when in use with the sleeve 100, the textile 20 may resist repeated stretching, compressing, bending and / or other mechanical stresses. In some embodiments, the matrix pattern for the pressure sensing areas of textile 20 may enable the textile 20 to be used in different sized and / or shaped applications such as differently sized and / or shaped sleeves 100. In some embodiments, the arrangement of the pressure sensing areas of textile 20 improve signal-to-noise ratio, which improves the accuracy of pressure measurements obtained therefrom.

[0037] In some embodiments, the padding layer 26 includes gaps that are symmetrically or asymmetrically positioned. For example, in FIG. 3 the padding layer 26 defines gaps that form a checkerboard like pattern. However, in other embodiments, the padding layer 26 may define gaps that form different patterns, shapes or the like. In other embodiments, the textile 20 may include outer conductive layers 22, 24 and a padding layer 26 that is substantially devoid of gaps. In some embodiments, the padding layer 26 entirely covers one face of the outer conductive layers 22, 24. In some embodiments, the outer layers 22, 24 and / or padding layer 26 include elastic fibers. In some embodiments, the textile 20 may include one or more fabrics encapsulating layers 22, 24, 26 and selected to achieve a desired tactile feel and / or appearance of the sleeve 100. In some embodiments, the textile 20 has a thickness of about 0.05 inches. In some embodiments, the textile 20 has a thickness of between about 0.03 inches to about 0.08 inches. In some embodiments, the textile 20 has a thickness of between about 0.04 inches to about 0.07 inches.

[0038] In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 includes pressure sensors 104 other than those included in the textile 20. The sleeve 100 may include pressure sensors 104 arranged in a matrix pattern similar to that described above for textile 20. In some embodiments, the pressure sensors 104 include one or more of capacitive pressure sensors, piezoresistive pressure sensors, conductive fabric pressure sensors, and triboelectric pressure sensors. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 has a thickness of about 0.05 inches. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 has a thickness of between about 0.04 inches to about 0.1 inches. In some embodiments, the textile 20 has a thickness of between about 0.05 inches to about 0.09 inches. In some embodiments, the textile 20 has a thickness of between about 0.06 inches to about 0.08 inches.

[0039] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could be made to the exemplary embodiment shown and described above without departing from the broad inventive concepts thereof. It is to be understood that the embodiments and claims disclosed herein are not limited in their application to the details of construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the description and illustrated in the drawings. Rather, the description and the drawings provide examples of the embodiments envisioned. The embodiments and claims disclosed herein are further capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways.

[0040] Specific features of the exemplary embodiments may or may not be part of the claimed invention and various features of the disclosed embodiments may be combined. Unless specifically set forth herein, the terms “a”, “an” and “the” are not limited to one element but instead should be read as meaning “at least one”. Finally, unless specifically set forth herein, a disclosed or claimed method should not be limited to the performance of their steps in the order written, and one skilled in the art can readily appreciate that the steps may be performed in any practical order.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0014]Incorrect hand placement and / or pressure exerted by a user's hands on a golf club grip is a common issue for players participating in play of golf. Existing training equipment to address these issues are often bulky and are typically not allowed in professional or tournament play. As such, an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a sleeve with pressure sensors that may be slid over an existing golf club grip and easily removed. In some embodiments, the sleeve of the present disclosure is configured to aid users in properly gripping a golf club.

[0015]Referring to the drawings in detail, wherein like reference numerals indicate like elements throughout, there is shown in FIGS. 1-4 a golf club pressure sensor sleeve, generally designated 100, and referred to as sleeve 100 for short, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In some embodiments, the sleeve 100 of the present disclosure includes sensors (e.g., pressure sensors, force sensors) conf...

Claims

1. A sleeve for a golf club grip comprising:a body comprised of an elastic material configured to be stretched over a golf club grip, the body having a generally cylindrical shape and configured to at least partially encapsulate the golf club grip; anda sensor positioned on the body and configured to detect a force exerted on a body,wherein the sleeve is configured to be slid over a golf club grip and coupled thereto.

2. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein the body is comprised of a textile including a first outer layer a second outer layer and a padding layer sandwiched between the first and second outer layers, andwherein the first and second outer layers include conductive fibers and the padding layer is comprised of non-conductive fibers.

3. The sleeve of claim 2, wherein the textile forms the sensor positioned on the body.

4. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein the body includes an interior surface defining an aperture configured to receive the golf club grip, the aperture being open at a distal end of the body, anda power source providing power to the sensor is positioned on the body at a proximal end thereof.

5. The sleeve of claim 4, further comprising:a communications module embedded in the body and in electrical communication with the power source and sensor, the communications module configured to receive electrical signals from the sensor that correspond to a pressure exerted on the body, convert the electrical signals into processed signals, and transmit the processed signals to an external device.

6. The sleeve of claim 5, wherein the communications module is configured to transmit the processed signal wirelessly.

7. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein the sensor is a conductive fabric pressure sensor.

8. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein the sensor is a capacitive pressure sensor.

9. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein the sensor is a piezoresistive pressure sensor.

10. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein the sensor is a triboelectric pressure sensor.

11. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein the body includes an adhesive disposed on an interior surface thereof.

12. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein the sensor includes a plurality of sensors arranged in a matrix pattern across the body.

13. A sleeve for a golf club grip comprising:a body comprised of an elastic material configured to be stretched over a golf club grip, the body having a generally cylindrical shape and configured to at least partially encapsulate the golf club grip, the body including an interior surface defining an aperture configured to receive the golf club grip, the aperture being open at a distal end of the body;a plurality of sensors positioned along the body in a matrix pattern and each sensor of the plurality of sensors configured to detect a force exerted on a body;a power source in electrical communication with the plurality of sensors, the power source positioned on the body at a proximal end thereof; anda communications module embedded in the body and in electrical communication with the power source and the plurality of sensors, the communications module configured to receive electrical signals from the plurality of sensors that correspond to a pressure exerted on the body, convert the electrical signals into processed signals, and transmit the processed signals to an external device,wherein the sleeve is configured to be slid over a golf club grip and coupled thereto.

14. The sleeve of claim 13, wherein the body is comprised of a textile including a first outer layer a second outer layer and a padding layer sandwiched between the first and second outer layers, andwherein the first and second outer layers include conductive fibers and the padding layer is comprised of non-conductive fibers.

15. The sleeve of claim 14, wherein the textile forms the plurality of sensors.

16. The sleeve of claim 13, wherein the body includes an adhesive disposed on the interior surface thereof.

17. The sleeve of claim 13, wherein the plurality of sensors are a plurality of conductive fabric pressure sensors.

18. The sleeve of claim 13, wherein the plurality of sensors are a plurality of capacitive pressure sensors.

19. The sleeve of claim 13, wherein the plurality of sensors are a plurality of piezoresistive pressure sensors.

20. The sleeve of claim 13, wherein the plurality of sensors are a plurality of triboelectric pressure sensors.

Images