A putting training apparatus and method of use thereof

Abstract

An apparatus and method for putting training is provided. In one form, the apparatus includes: a plate body for fastening to a face of a head of a putter, said body configured to be fastened to the face; a pair of opposed wing members extending forward from the body at or near the ends, said wing members configured to facilitate square alignment of the head of the putter relative to a putting stroke and to provide tactile feedback when the putter is closed or open relative to the putting stroke while a ball is being hit; and, optionally, a ball strike aperture centrally defined through the opposed surfaces such that the ball makes direct contact with the putter face and provides tactile feedback when centrally hit through the putting stroke.

Description

A PUTTING TRAINING APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USE THEREOFTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for putting training.BACKGROUND

[0002] A golf stroke, also known as a golf swing, is the fundamental action used by players to strike a golf ball with a club. It is a coordinated and precise movement that involves various components working together to achieve a desired result.

[0003] To make a stroke, a golf player will position himself / herself in front of the ball, aligning his or her body, feet, hips, and shoulders relative to a target. After initiating a backswing movement to bring the club away from the ball, the golfer then makes a controlled downswing motion towards and through the ball.

[0004] Generally speaking, this activity requires precision and timing to strike a ball cleanly and achieve a desired trajectory and distance. During the strike, the clubface needs to be aligned square to the target, and the ball is expected to be struck with a centre of the clubface for optimal results. The follow-through after the impact involves the head traveling along the intended path, helping release the energy and control the shot.

[0005] Striking the golf ball at the centre of the clubface, also known as hitting the “sweet spot”, is considered highly desirable and advantageous. However, achieving consistent and accurate results can be challenging and requires skill, practice, and proper technique. The swing path and the alignment of the clubface at impact greatly influence the contact point on the clubface. If the swing path is off or the clubface is not square to the target at impact, the ball will not be struck by the centre of the clubface.

[0006] Common swing errors lead to inconsistent impacts and cause the clubface to be open or closed relative to the ball resulting in off-centre strikes.

[0007] It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country.SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention provide a putting training apparatus and method of use, which may at least partially address one or more of the problems or deficienciesmentioned above or which may provide the public with a useful or commercial choice.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a putting training apparatus including: a plate body for fastening to a face of a head of a putter, said body including a pair of opposed end edges and a pair of opposed surfaces extending substantially parallel to each other between the opposed end edges and having an outer surface and an opposed inner surface configured to be fastened to the face; a pair of opposed wing members extending forward from the outer surface of the plate body at or near the end edges, said wing members configured to facilitate square alignment of the head of the putter relative to a putting stroke and provide tactile feedback when the head of the putter is closed or open relative to the putting stroke while the ball is being hit; and optionally, a ball strike aperture centrally defined through the opposed surfaces such that the ball makes direct contact with the face of the putter and provides tactile feedback when at least centrally hit through the putting stroke.

[0010] Advantageously, the present invention provides an apparatus and method for assisting golfers in achieving consistent and accurate ball striking at the centre of the face of a putter head. The apparatus and method offer a convenient approach to provide tactile feedback during putting training enabling golfers to determine whether the face of the putter is square to the intended path of the stroke and whether the ball is stuck centrally. Additionally, the application of the pair of opposed wing members offers the golfer a visual cue serving as an alignment aid to determine whether the head of the putter is square relative to the ball and the putting stroke and to the lie angle of the putter to ensure eye alignment is directly over the ball.

[0011] As indicated, the apparatus of the present invention is for use in putting training. It will therefore be convenient to hereinafter describe the present invention with reference to this example application. However, a person skilled in the art will appreciate that the apparatus of the present invention is capable of broader applications and may be used in any instance in which ensuring that the face of an item is square to a target is necessary.

[0012] A putter is a club used in the sport of golf to make relatively short and low-speed strokes with the intention of rolling the ball into a cup or hole a short distance away.

[0013] Like other clubs, the putter has a shaft with a head located at a first end and a grip applied on an opposed second end.

[0014] The putter is differentiated from other clubs by having a head with a face for striking a ball having a very flat, low-profile and low-loft face.

[0015] In use the putter is also differentiated from other clubs, as the putting stroke is a shorter controlled movement as opposed to a full swing. Typically, a putting stroke may include aligning the face of the club square to a target line behind the ball and then swinging the club backwards and then forward through the ball along the target line with a pendulum-like motion, preferably with minimal wrist movement.

[0016] The “target line” may refer to an imaginary pathway extending from the ball to a desired target, i.e., usually the cup or hole.

[0017] The swinging of the club backwards may commonly be referred to as the “backswing”.

[0018] The swinging of the club through and past the ball may commonly be referred to as the “follow-through”.

[0019] The putting stroke may usually be completed with a smooth follow-through allowing the club head to swing a similar length forward as during the backswing.

[0020] A successful putting stroke may usually be characterised by the face of the putter centrally striking the ball square, or perpendicular, to the target line. Hitting the “sweet spot” of the putter may maximise control and minimise unintended spin on the ball. Indeed, in many instances, the head, or at least the face, of putters may be formed of metal intended to provide tactile and / or audible feedback, such as, e.g., a “ping” sound, when a ball is centrally and squarely struck by the face of a putter.

[0021] When the face of the putter does not squarely hit the ball relative to the putting stroke, or the target line, the face may be described as being “closed” or “open”. A “closed” or “open” face may lead to misalignment and deviation of the ball away from the target line.

[0022] A “closed face” may refer to when the face is angled towards the golfer relative to the target line at impact with the ball. For example, for a right-handed golfer, the face may be aiming to the left of the target line.

[0023] Conversely, an “open face” may refer to when the face is angled away from the golfer relative to the target line at impact with the ball. For example, for a right-handed golfer, the face may be aiming to the right of the target line.

[0024] As indicated, the putting training apparatus includes a plate body for fastening to the face of the head of a putter. The plate body may be of any suitable size, shape and construction and may be formed from any suitable material or materials.

[0025] The plate body may be formed from metal and / or plastic material or materials, typically plastic material or materials.

[0026] The plate body may be of hollow or solid construction.

[0027] The body may be of any suitable polygonal shape. For example, in some embodiments, the body may be in the shape of a circle or oval. In other embodiments, the body may be in the shape of a triangle, square, rectangle, pentagon, hexagon or octagon, for example.

[0028] In preferred embodiments, the body may be a rectangular plate. The plate body may be defined by the opposed surfaces interconnected by opposing edges.

[0029] The opposed surfaces may extend substantially parallel to each other. The opposed surfaces may include the outer surface and the opposed inner surface configured to be fastened to the face of the putter.

[0030] The opposing edges may include the opposed end edges and opposed side edges extending longitudinally therebetween. The opposed side edges may include a lower side edge and an opposed upper side edge.

[0031] The opposed surfaces and the lower side edge may preferably extend linearly between the opposed end edges.

[0032] In some embodiments, the upper side edge may extend curvilinearly between the opposed end edges. For example, the upper side edge may include one or more concave or convex portions, typically a convex portion, preferably a central convex portion.

[0033] One or more of the opposed end edges and / or opposed side edges may be rounded, chamfered and / or bevelled.

[0034] The plate body may have a thickness, as defined between the opposed surfaces of between about 5mm and about 50mm, between about 5mm and about 40mm, between about 5mm and about 30mm, between about 5mm and about 20mm or even between about 5mm and about 10mm, typically between about 5mm and about 20mm.

[0035] The plate body may have a length, as defined between the opposed side edges of between about 60mm and about 300mm or between about 100mm and about 300mm, typically between about 60mm and about 150mm.

[0036] The plate body may have a height, as defined between the opposed side edges, of between about 35mm and about 100mm, typically between about 40mm and about 80mm.

[0037] As indicated, the plate body may be fastened to a face of a head of a putter. The plate body may be fastened in any suitable way, typically in a surface-to-surface arrangement between the inner surface of the plate body and the face of the putter, preferably releasably.

[0038] In some embodiments, the plate body may be fastened to face of a putter with a fastening mechanism or part thereof. The fastening mechanism or part thereof may be of integral formation with each of the inner surface of the plate body and the face of the putter.

[0039] The fastening mechanism may include a first part associated with the inner surface of the plate body and a second part connectable to the first part and associated with the face of the putter.

[0040] The fastening mechanism may include mateable male and female formations that couple together, such as, e.g., a threaded connection, an interference (snap-fit) type connection, a bayonet-type connection or a hook-and-loop type connection.

[0041] In some such embodiments, the first part of the fastening mechanism associated with the inner surface of the plate body may include a male formation protruding from the inner surface and configured to be at least partially inserted into, or coupled with, a female formation of the second part of the fastening mechanism associated with the face of the putter.

[0042] Conversely, in other such embodiments, the first part of the fastening mechanism associated with the inner surfaced of the plate body may include a female formation configured to at least partially receive, or be coupled with, a male formation of the second part of the fastening mechanism extending outward from the face of the putter.

[0043] In some embodiments, the plate body may be fastened to the face of the putter with one or more fasteners, such as, e.g., one or more mechanical fasteners and / or chemical fasteners.

[0044] In some such embodiments, the one or more mechanical fasteners may include a clip or clamp extending from the inner surface of the plate body and configured to clip or clamp to part of the putter.

[0045] In other such embodiments, the one or more mechanical fasteners may include a threaded fastener or the like configured to extend through, or from, the inner surface of the plate body and fasten the plate body to the face of the putter.

[0046] In yet other such embodiments, the one or more chemical fasteners may include a wet adhesive, a dry adhesive and / or double-sided adhesive tape extending between the face ofthe putter and the inner surface of the plate body.

[0047] In yet other embodiments, the plate body and at least the face of the putter may be fastened together by one or more loops, straps or the like extending about the plate body and the putter.

[0048] In further embodiments, the plate body and at least the face of the putter may be fastened together by a hook-and-loop type fastening system. For example, one of the inner surface of the plate body and the face of the putter may include one or more hook fasteners portions mounted, fastened or adhered thereon and the other of the inner surface of the plate body and the face of the putter may include one or more loop fastener portions mounted, fastened or adhered thereon and configured to releasably fasten to the one or more hook fasteners portions.

[0049] As indicated, the apparatus includes a pair of opposed wing members extending forward from the outer surface of the plate body at or near the end edges for facilitating square alignment of the putter head relative to a putting stroke and to provide tactile feedback when the head of the putter is open or closed relative to the putting stroke while the ball is being hit.

[0050] The opposed wing members may be of any suitable size, shape and construction and may be formed from any suitable material or materials.

[0051] The opposed wing members may be integrally formed with the plate body or may be of separate construction.

[0052] The wing members may be formed from metal and / or plastic material or materials, typically plastic material or materials.

[0053] The wing members may be of hollow or solid construction.

[0054] Each wing member may be of any suitable polygonal shape. For example, in some embodiments, the wing member may be in the shape of a circle or oval. In other embodiments, the wing member may be in the shape of a triangle, square, rectangle, pentagon, hexagon or octagon, for example.

[0055] In preferred embodiments, each wing member may be substantially rectangular in shape. Each wing member may be defined by opposed surfaces interconnected by opposing edges. The opposed surfaces may include an inner surface and an opposed outer surface.

[0056] The opposing edges may include the opposed end edges and opposed side edgesextending longitudinally therebetween. The opposed end edges may include an inner end edge and an opposed outer end edge. The opposed side edges may include an upper side edge and an opposed lower side edge.

[0057] The opposed surfaces and the opposed side edges may preferably extend linearly between the opposed end edges.

[0058] The opposed end edges and opposed side edges may be rounded, chamfered and / or bevelled.

[0059] In some embodiments, the opposed surfaces may converge or diverge towards or away from each other to provide wing members that taper or narrow in width along their length, preferably taper towards the outer end edge.

[0060] In preferred embodiments, the opposed surfaces may extend parallel to each other along their length thereby defining wing members of uniform thickness.

[0061] In some embodiments, one or both of the opposed side edges may taper or narrow in height at or near the outer end edge.

[0062] In preferred such embodiments, the lower side edge of each wing member may include an angled outer portion that angles upwards towards the upper side edge near the outer end edge to provide a bevelled lower side edge. Advantageously, the bevelled lower side edge may prevent the apparatus from impacting or catching on a support surface during a putting stroke, particularly as the putter head together with the apparatus may be moving proximate to the support surface.

[0063] The opposed wing members may extend forward from the outer surface of the plate body at any suitable angle.

[0064] For example, in some embodiments, each of the wing members may be acutely angled relative to the outer surface such that the wing members converge forward from the plate body.

[0065] In other embodiments, each of the wing members may be obtusely angled relative to the outer surface such that the wing members diverge forward from the plate body.

[0066] In preferred embodiments, the opposed wing members may extend orthogonally forward from the outer surface of the plate body, preferably such that the wing members extend longitudinally forward in a parallel arrangement.

[0067] The wing members may extend orthogonally forward from the outer surface of the plate body and be spaced apart from each other any suitable distance.

[0068] For example, each opposed wing member may have a length, as defined between the opposed end edges, of about 50mm, about 60mm, about 70mm, about 80mm, about 90mm, about 100mm, about 1 10mm, about 120mm, about 130mm, about 140mm, about 150mm, about 160mm, about 170mm, about 180mm, about 190mm or even about 200mm.

[0069] Likewise, the opposed wing members may be spaced apart from each other a distance, as defined between the respective inner surfaces, of about 45mm, about 50mm, about 60mm, about 70mm, about 80mm, about 90mm, about 100mm, about 110mm, about 120mm, about 130mm, about 140mm, about 150mm, about 160mm, about 170mm, about 180mm, about 190mm, about 200mm, about 210mm, about 220mm, about 230mm, about 240mm or even about 250mm.

[0070] In some embodiments, the opposed wing members may be spaced apart from each other a distance slightly greater than a width of a standard golf ball. For example, and given that a standard golf ball may have a width of 42.68mm, the opposed wing members may be spaced apart from each other a distance of about 44.68mm, about 46.68mm, about 48.68mm or about 50.68mm thereby providing a respective clearance of about 1 mm, about 2mm, about 3mm or about 4mm to each side of a golf ball when squarely aligned and centrally struck during a putting stroke, preferably about 3mm.

[0071] Advantageously, having the opposed wing members spaced apart a distance only slightly greater than a diameter of a golf ball may enable a user to precisely monitor a square alignment of the putter face during a putting stroke.

[0072] Each wing member may have a height, as defined between the opposed side edges, of about the same or less than the height of the plate body.

[0073] In some embodiments, each wing member may be fixedly formed with, or mounted or fastened to, the plate body.

[0074] In other embodiments, each wing member may be releasably mounted to the plate body such that each wing member may be removed when not in use.

[0075] Each wing member may releasably connect to the plate body by a connecting mechanism or part thereof, for example. The connecting mechanism or parts thereof may or may not be of integral formation each of the outer surface of the plate body and the inner end edge of the wing member.

[0076] The connecting mechanism may include a first part associated with the inner end edge of the wing member and a second part connectable to the first part and associated with the outer surface of the plate body.

[0077] The connecting mechanism may include mateable male and female formations that couple together, such as, e.g., a threaded connection, an interference (snap-fit) type connection, a bayonet-type connection or a hook-and-loop type connection.

[0078] In some such embodiments, the first part of the connecting mechanism associated with the inner end edge of the wing members may include a male formation extending outward from the inner end edge and configured to be at least partially inserted into, or coupled with, a female formation of the second part of the connecting mechanism associated with the outer surface of the plate body.

[0079] Conversely, in other such embodiments, the first part of the connecting mechanism associated with the inner end edge of each wing member may include a female formation configured to at least partially receive, or be coupled with, a male formation of the second part of the connecting mechanism associated with the outer surface of the plate body.

[0080] In yet other embodiments, each wing member may be pivotally mounted to the plate body such that each wing member may be pivotable between an operable position and a stowage position relative to the plate body, and optionally to any angle therebetween. For example, each wing member may be pivotable about a pivot axis coinciding with the inner end edge of each wing member between the operable and stowage positions.

[0081] In further embodiments, each wing member may be adjustably mounted to the plate body such that a spacing between the opposed wing members may be adjustable.

[0082] For example, in some such embodiments, one or both wing members may be slidably mounted to the plate body at the inner side edge such that the one or both wing members may be slid towards or away from each other.

[0083] In such embodiments, the outer surface of the plate body may include one or more elongate channels or grooves defined thereon and longitudinally extending from at or near a side edge at least partially towards an opposite side edge and the inner end edge of the wing member may include one or more mounting portions each configured to engage and be retained within one of the elongate channels or grooves and be slidable therealong. The mounting portion may preferably include an enlarged head or other type of retaining end configured to slidable along but not laterally separable from the elongate channel or groove.

[0084] In such embodiments, the elongate channel or groove may include one or more predefined positions spaced therealong and configured to releasably retain the mounting portion at the predefined positions. Each predefined position may be characterised by a discrete narrowing of a width of the elongate channel or groove so as to releasably retain the mounting portion when slid between the discrete narrowing.

[0085] In some embodiments, the wing members may be provided in differing lengths and may be interchangeably mounted to the plate body as desired. For example, in some such embodiments, the apparatus may be provided as a kit including two or more pairs of wing members of differing lengths and configured to be interchangeably mounted to the plate body as desired, typically via a connecting mechanism as previously described.

[0086] As indicated, the wing members are configured to facilitate square alignment of the head of a putter relative to a putting stroke and provide tactile feedback when the putter is open or closed relative to the ball when being hit.

[0087] In use, a golfer may align the wing members substantially parallel to a target line extending between the ball and a desired target to facilitate square alignment of the putter head during a putting stroke. Advantageously, the size and longitudinal direction of the wing members facilitate alignment of the wing members relative to the target line, particularly when viewed from above. Indeed, by observing a position of the wing members in relation to the target line, a golfer can promptly identify any deviations in alignment allowing for necessary adjustments to ensure a more accurate and consistent putting stroke.

[0088] Similarly, in use each wing member is configured to provide clear tactile and / or audible feedback if impacted by a golf ball during a putting stroke due to the face of the putter being closed or open during impact and / or partially during the follow through stroke. Advantageously, such feedback provide a real-time indication to the golfer of any inconsistencies in his or her putting stroke.

[0089] It is envisaged that the wing members' visual, audible and tactile feedback support a golfer in refining his or her stroke mechanics, helping him or her consistently find the centre of the face, thereby enhancing ball control and distance consistency. The wing elements' presence may also contribute to a golfer's confidence during putting, as they serve as a reliable guide to ensure proper alignment and strike location. With extended use, the apparatus may assist a golfer develop muscle memory and an intuitive understanding of his or her stroke's alignment, allowing him or her to execute more precise and controlled putts with enhanced accuracy and confidence.

[0090] Additionally, the wing members may serve as a visual que to reference a lie angle of the putter and whether it is sitting correctly. This visual que may also serve to ensure a golfer’s eye alignment is directly over the golf ball.

[0091] As indicated, the apparatus further includes a ball strike aperture centrally defined through the opposed surfaces such that the ball makes direct contact with the face of the putter and provides tactile feedback when at least centrally hit through the putting stroke.

[0092] The ball strike aperture may be of any suitable shape. For example, in some embodiments, the aperture may be in the shape of a triangle, square, rectangle, pentagon, hexagon or octagon. In other embodiments, the aperture may be in the shape of a circle or oval, for example.

[0093] In preferred embodiments, the ball strike aperture may be substantially circular in shape and may be of a size such that a ball when centrally struck may make direct contact with the face of the putter.

[0094] The aperture may have a diameter ranging in size from about 10mm, about 1 1 mm , about 12mm, about 13mm, about 14mm, about 15mm, about 16mm, about 17mm, about 18mm, about 19mm, about 20mm, about 21 mm, about 22mm, about 23mm, about 24mm, about 25mm, about 26mm, about 27mm, about 28mm, about 29mm, about 30mm, about 31 mm, about 32mm, about 33mm, about 34mm, about 35mm, about 36mm, about 37mm, about 38mm, about 39mm, about 40mm, about 41 mm, about 42mm, about 43mm, about 44mm, about 45mm, about 46mm, about 47mm, about 48mm, about 49mm, about 49mm, about 50mm, about 51 mm, about 52mm, about 53mm, about 54mm, about 55mm, about 56mm, about 57mm, about 58mm, about 59mm, 60mm, about 61 mm, about 62mm, about 63mm, about 64mm, about 65mm, about 66mm, about 67mm, about 68mm, about 69mm, about 70mm, about 71 mm, about 72mm, about 73mm, about 74mm, about 75mm, about 76mm, about 77mm, about 78mm, about 79mm, about 80mm, about 81 mm, about 82mm, about 83mm, about 84mm, about 85mm, about 86mm, about 87mm, about 88mm, about 89mm, about 90mm, about 91 mm, about 92mm, about 93mm, about 94mm, about 95mm, about 96mm, about 97mm, about 98mm, about 99mm or even about 100mm, typically the aperture may have a diameter ranging in size from about 15mm to about 75mm.

[0095] In some embodiments, the aperture may have a diameter sized only slightly greater than a contact surface of a golf ball when centrally and squarely struck. For example, the ball strike aperture may have a diameter sized to provide a clearance of about 1 mm, about 2mm, about 3mm or about 4mm about the contact surface of the golf ball when centrally and squarely struck, preferably 3mm.

[0096] Advantageously, having the ball strike aperture sized to be only slightly greater than a contact surface of the golf ball may enable a user to precisely monitor a “sweet spot” location of the putter during a putting stroke, particularly due to tactile feedback provided when the golf ball makes clean contact with the face of the putter through the ball strike aperture.

[0097] In some embodiments, the ball strike aperture may be entirely defined by the plate body, typically such that an entire periphery of the aperture is defined by the plate body.

[0098] In other embodiments, the ball strike aperture may partially overlap the lower side edge of the plate body such that the aperture is open along the lower side edge.

[0099] The ball strike aperture may be a tapered or chamfered aperture.

[0100] Typically, the ball strike aperture may be defined by an aperture edge portion interconnecting the opposed surfaces of the plate body.

[0101] The aperture edge portion may be sharp, rounded, chamfered or bevelled.

[0102] In some embodiments, the aperture edge portion may be squared. For example, the edge portion may extend perpendicularly relative to a planar surface of the opposed surfaces.

[0103] In other embodiments, the aperture edge portion may be tapered towards the inner surface. For example, in such embodiments, the ball strike aperture may be characterised by a first opening in the outer surface, a second opening of narrower diameter in the inner surface and a through aperture gradually narrowing between the first opening and the second opening.

[0104] In yet other embodiments, the aperture edge may be a chamfered or bevelled.

[0105] In preferred embodiments, the ball strike aperture may be a tapered aperture defined by a gradual narrowing of the aperture from the outer surface to the inner surface of the plate body.

[0106] In use, the ball strike aperture may be configured to allow a ball to be centrally hit and make direct contact with the face of the putter thus delivering essential tactile feedback to the golfer. Indeed, and as previously mentioned, in many instances, the head, or at least the face, of putters may be formed from metal intended to provide tactile and / or audible feedback, such as, e.g., a “ping” sound, when a ball is centrally and squarely struck by the face of a putter. In such instances, it is envisaged that the tactile feedback provided by way of the ball strike aperture may help golfers refine their putting technique. The consistent tactile sensation associated with a centrally struck ball may reinforce muscle memory and stroke consistency,allowing a golfer to repeat the correct impact alignment and ball strike during each putting stroke.

[0107] Further, the ball strike aperture's central position may promote an increased focus on achieving a precise and centred ball strike. Golfers may be encouraged to aim for the aperture's centre during a putting stroke, thereby further enhancing his or her ability to find the putter face's sweet spot.

[0108] Moreover, a golfer may benefit from the immediate feedback thereby gaining a better understanding of his or hers putter's face alignment and impact consistency. He or she may also utilise the feedback to fine-tune his or her putting strokes, making micro-adjustments to optimise their performance.

[0109] In some embodiments, the apparatus may further include an alignment marker for aligning the apparatus (and associated a putter fastened thereto) relative to the putting stroke, or the target line.

[0110] The alignment marker may be of any suitable size, shape and construction and may be located in any suitable location on the apparatus.[0011 1] Generally, the alignment marker may be centrally located and visible on an upper surface of the apparatus so as to be visible to a golfer from above.

[0112] In some embodiments, the alignment marker may be a protrusion protruding from an upper surface of the apparatus, preferably centrally from an upper side edge of the plate body.

[0113] In other embodiments, the alignment marker may be a groove or channel defined on an upper surface of the apparatus, preferably centrally defined on the upper side edge of the plate body, more preferably centrally defined on the central convex portion of the upper side edge of the plate body.

[0114] Preferably, the alignment marker, whether it be a protrusion, groove or channel, may extend longitudinally in a direction perpendicular to planar surface of the plate body (and / or putter face) so as to be able to be aligned with a desired target line.

[0115] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of putting training, said method including: fastening an apparatus according to the first aspect to a face of a putter; aligning the face of the putter squarely relative to a putting stroke using the opposed wing members as visual alignment aids; andstriking the golf ball centrally and squarely with the face of the putter, optionally, wherein tactile feedback is provided by the face of the putter through the ball strike aperture if the ball is centrally struck, and wherein tactile feedback is provided by contact of the ball with either of the wing members if the ball is not struck squarely during the putting stroke.

[0116] The method may include one or more features or characteristics of the apparatus as hereinbefore described.

[0117] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

[0118] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0119] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:

[0120] Figure 1 is an upper front perspective view of a putting training apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0121] Figure 2 is a side view of the putting training apparatus as shown in Figure 1.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0122] Figures 1 and 2 show a putting training apparatus (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0123] Referring to Figure 1 , the apparatus (100) includes a plate body (1 10) for fastening to a face of a head of a putter. The body (1 10) includes a pair of opposed end edges (1 12) and a pair of opposed surfaces extending substantially parallel to each other between the opposed end edges (112), including an outer surface (113) and an opposed inner surface (114) configured to be fastened to the face of the putter.

[0124] The apparatus (100) further includes a pair of opposed wing members (120)extending forward from the outer surface (1 13) of the plate body (1 10) from near the end edges (1 12). The wing members (120) are configured to facilitate square alignment of the head of the putter relative to a target line (i.e., putting stroke) and provide tactile feedback when the head of the putter is closed or open relative to the target line while the ball is being hit.

[0125] Moreover, the apparatus (100) includes a ball strike aperture (130) centrally defined through the opposed surfaces such that the ball makes direct contact with the face of the putter and provides tactile feedback when centrally hit through the putting stroke.

[0126] The plate body (1 10) is formed from plastic and has a rectangular shape defined by the opposed end edges (1 12), the outer surface (113), the opposed inner surface (1 14), an upper side edge (1 15) and an opposed lower side edge (1 16).

[0127] The outer surface (113), the inner surface (1 14), the upper side edge (115) and the opposed lower side edge (1 16) extend longitudinally between the opposed end edges (112).

[0128] The outer surface (1 13) and the inner surface (114) extend substantially parallel to each other.

[0129] The outer surface (1 13), the inner surface (1 14) and the lower side edge (116) extend linearly between the opposed end edges (112).

[0130] The upper side edge (1 15) include a central convex portion (140).

[0131] The plate body (1 10) has a thickness, as defined between the opposed surfaces, of between about 5mm and about 20mm.

[0132] The plate body (1 10) has a length, as defined between the opposed end edges (1 12), of between about 60mm and about 150mm.

[0133] The plate body (110) has a height, as defined between the opposed side edges (1 15, 116), of between about 40mm and about 80mm.

[0134] The plate body (1 10) is configured to be releasably fastened to a face of a putter with one or more portions of double-sided adhesive tape extending between the face of the putter and the inner surface (114) of the plate body (1 10).

[0135] As indicated, the apparatus (100) includes a pair of opposed wing members (120) extending forward from the outer surface (1 13) of the plate body (1 10) from locations near the end edges (112) for facilitating square alignment of the putter head relative to the target line and to provide tactile feedback when the putter is open or closed relative to the target line while aball is being hit.

[0136] The opposed wing members (120) are integrally formed with the plate body (110) and are likewise formed from plastic.

[0137] Referring to Figure 2, each wing member (120) is substantially rectangular in shape defined by an inner surface (122), an opposed outer surface (124), an inner end edge (125), an opposed outer end edge (126), an upper side edge (127) and an opposed lower side edge (128).

[0138] The opposed surfaces (122, 124) and the opposed side edges (127, 238) extend linearly between the opposed end edges (125, 126).

[0139] The opposed surfaces (122, 124) extend parallel to each other along their length thereby defining wing members (120) of uniform thickness.

[0140] As shown, the lower side edge (128) of each wing member (120) includes an angled outer portion that angles upwards towards the upper side edge (127) near the outer end edge (126) to provide a bevelled lower side edge (129). Advantageously, the bevelled lower side edge (129) prevents the apparatus (100) from impacting or catching on a support surface during a putting stroke, particularly as the putter head together with the apparatus (100) move proximate to the support surface.

[0141] Referring back to Figure 1 , the opposed wing members (120) extend orthogonally forward from the outer surface (113) of the plate body (1 10) such that the wing members (120) extend longitudinally forward in a parallel arrangement.

[0142] As indicated, the wing members (120) are configured to facilitate square alignment of the head of a putter relative to a target line and provide tactile feedback when the putter is open or closed relative to the target line when the ball is being hit.

[0143] In use, a golfer may align the wing members (120) substantially parallel to a target line extending between the ball and a desired target to facilitate square alignment of the putter head during a putting stroke.

[0144] Similarly, in use each wing member (120) provides clear tactile feedback if impacted by a ball during a putting stroke due to the face of the putter being closed or open during impact and / or partially during the follow through stroke. Advantageously, such feedback provide a realtime indication to the golfer of any inconsistencies in his or her putting stroke.

[0145] As shown, the apparatus (100) further includes a ball strike aperture (130) centrallydefined through the opposed surfaces (113, 1 14) such that the ball makes direct contact with the face of the putter and provides tactile feedback when centrally hit through the putting stroke.

[0146] The ball strike aperture (130) is substantially circular in shape and of a size such that a ball when centrally struck may make direct contact with the face of the putter. The ball strike aperture (130) has a diameter of from about 40mm to about 75mm.

[0147] As shown, the ball strike aperture (130) partially overlaps the lower side edge (1 16) of the plate body (1 10) such that the aperture (130) is open along the lower side edge (116).

[0148] The ball strike aperture (130) is a tapered aperture defined by a gradually narrowing aperture edge portion (132) interconnecting the opposed surfaces (113, 114) of the plate body (1 10).

[0149] In use, the ball strike aperture (130) is configured to allow a ball to be centrally hit and make direct contact with the face of the putter thus delivering essential tactile feedback to the golfer. The consistent tactile sensation associated with a centrally struck ball may reinforce muscle memory and stroke consistency, allowing a golfer to repeat the correct impact alignment and ball strike during each putting stroke.

[0150] Lastly, and as shown, the apparatus (100) includes an alignment marker (150) for aligning the apparatus (100; and an associated putter fastened thereto) relative to the target line.

[0151] The alignment marker (150) includes a groove centrally defined on the central convex portion (140) of the upper side edge (1 15) of the plate body (110) and extending in a direction perpendicular to a planar surface of the plate body (110) so as to be able to be aligned with a desired target line.

[0152] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word ‘comprising’ and its derivatives including ‘comprises’ and ‘comprise’ include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[0153] Reference throughout this specification to ‘one embodiment’ or ‘an embodiment’ means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases ‘in one embodiment’ or ‘in an embodiment’ in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[0154] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A putting training apparatus including: a plate body for fastening to a face of a head of a putter, said body including a pair of opposed end edges and a pair of opposed surfaces extending substantially parallel to each other between the opposed end edges and having an outer surface and an opposed inner surface configured to be fastened to the face; a pair of opposed wing members extending forward from the outer surface of the plate body at or near the end edges, said wing members configured to facilitate square alignment of the head of the putter relative to a putting stroke and provide tactile feedback when the head of the putter is closed or open relative to the putting stroke while the ball is being hit; and a ball strike aperture centrally defined through the opposed surfaces such that the ball makes direct contact with the face of the putter and provides tactile feedback when at least centrally hit through the putting stroke.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the body is a rectangular plate defined by the outer surface, the opposed inner surface, a lower side edge and an opposed upper side edge extending between the opposed end edges, said upper side edge including a central convex portion defined thereon.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the plate body is configured to be releasably fastened to the face of the head of the putter in a surface-to-surface arrangement.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the plate body is releasably fastened to the face of the head of the putter by a hook-and-loop fastening system.

5. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the plate body is releasably fastened to the face of the head of the putter by double-sided adhesive tape extending between the face of the putter and an inner surface of the plate body.

6. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein each of the pair of opposed wing members is substantially rectangular in shape defined by opposed inner and outer surfaces interconnected by opposed inner and outer end edges and opposed side edges extending longitudinally between the opposed inner and outer end edges.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein one or both of the opposed side edges taper or narrow in height at or near the outer end edge.

8. The apparatus of claim 6 or claim 7, wherein a lower side edge of the opposed side edges of each opposed wing member includes an angled outer portion that angles upwardstowards an opposed upper side edge near the outer end edge to provide a bevelled said lower side edge.

9. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the opposed wing members extend orthogonally forward from the outer surface of the plate body such that the wing members extend longitudinally forward in a parallel arrangement.

10. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the ball strike aperture is substantially circular in shape and is of a size such that a ball when centrally struck makes direct contact with the face of the putter through the aperture.

11. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the ball strike aperture partially overlaps a lower side edge of the plate body such that the aperture is open along a lower side edge.

12. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 1 1 , wherein the ball strike aperture is a tapered or chamfered aperture.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the ball strike aperture is a tapered aperture defined by a gradually narrowing of the aperture from the outer surface to the inner surface of the plate body.

14. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 13, further including an alignment marker for aligning the apparatus and a putter fastened thereto relative to a desired target line.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the alignment marker is centrally located and visible on an upper surface of the apparatus so as to be visible to a golfer from above.

16. The apparatus of claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the alignment marker is a protrusion protruding centrally from an upper side edge of the plate body.

17. The apparatus of claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the alignment marker is a groove or channel centrally defined on a central convex portion of a upper side edge of the plate body.

18. The apparatus of claim 16 or claim 17, wherein the alignment marker extends longitudinally in a direction perpendicular to a planar surface of the plate body so as to be able to be aligned with a desired target line.

19. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein each of the pair of opposed wing members is adjustable mounted to the plate body such that a spacing between the opposed wing members is adjustable.

20. A method of putting training, said method including: fastening an apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 19 to a face of a putter; aligning the face of the putter squarely relative to a putting stroke using the opposed wing members as visual alignment aids; and striking the golf ball centrally and squarely with the face of the putter, wherein tactile feedback is provided by the face of the putter through the ball strike aperture if the ball is centrally struck, and wherein tactile feedback is provided by contact of the ball with either of the wing members if the ball is not struck squarely during the putting stroke.

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