Wearable golf training device

Abstract

The system and method for golf training using a wearable training device. The wearable training device having a laser portion that is pivotable and / or rotatable to adjust a projected laser line onto a playing surface at address. The wearable training device may be size adjustable using one or more straps. The wearable training device may have one or more removable stiffeners and uses one or more visual, audible, or vibration cues to signal if a player is in or out of a desired position.

Description

WEARABLE GOLF TRAINING DEVICECROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPUCATIONS

[0001] This Application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Number63 / 663, 327, filed June 24, 2024, the content of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure relates to golf training devices and more particularly to a wearable laser training device used for golf training.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] Golf, unlike most ball games, cannot and does not use a standardized playing area. and coping with the varied terrains encountered on different courses is a key part of the game.Courses typically have either 9 or 18 holes, regions of terrain that each contain a hole that receives the ball. Each hole on a course contains a teeing ground to start from, and a putting green containing the hole. There are several standard forms of terrain between the tee and the green, such as the fairway, rough (tall grass), and various hazards such as water, rocks, or sand-filled bunkers. Each hole on a course is unique in its specific layout and resulting difficulty level.

[0004] Golf is played for the lowest number of strokes by an individual, known as stroke play, or the lowest score on the most individual holes in a complete round by an individual or team, known as match play. Stroke play is the most common format at all levels, especially at the elite level.

[0005] A golf swing is outwardly similar to many other motions involving swinging a tool or playing implement, such as an axe or a baseball bat. However, unlike many of these motions, the result of the swing is highly dependent on several sub-motions being properly aligned and timed. These sub-motions ensure that the club travels up to the ball in line with the desired path; that the clubface is in line with the Swing path; and that the ball hits the center or "sweet spot" of the clubface. The ability to do this consistently, across a complete set of clubs with a wide range of shaft lengths and clubface areas, is a key skill for any golfer, and takes a significant effort to achieve.

[0006] Accuracy and consistency are typically stressed over pure distance. A player with a straight drive that travels only 220 yards will nevertheless be able to accurately place the ball into a good position on the fairway and can make up for lesser distance of any given club by simply using "more club" (a lower loft) on their tee shot or on subsequent fairway and approach shots. However, a golfer with a drive that may go 280 yards but often does not fly straight will be less able to position their ball advantageously; the ball may "hook”, "pull","draw”, "fade", "push" or "slice" off the intended target line and land out of bounds, in the rough, or in a hazard, and thus the player will require many more strokes to successfully get the ball in the hole.

[0007] A golf stroke uses the muscles of the core, hamstring, shoulder, and wrist to name a few. Stronger muscles in the wrist can prevent them from being twisted during swings, whilst stronger shoulders increase the turning force. Weak wrists can transmit force to elbows and even the player’s neck and lead to injury. As a muscle contracts it pulls equally from both ends and, to have movement at only one end of the muscle, other muscles must stabilize the bone to which the other end of the muscle is attached.

[0008] Golf is a multi-billion-dollar industry and there are several existing golf training devices. Existing training devices are often mounted to a club and are used to provide auditory or visual cues as to proper placement of the club. Existing devices have many problems, including devices that will fly off the club upon impact and can be damaged. These devices are also tricky to align. Existing training aids often do not allow for a full swing. In some cases, the training aid is the club, meaning a player can’t use it with every club on the course, or for every shot.

[0009] Some other existing devices must be moved and placed down before each shot, They do not address proper arm structure or muscle memory and cannot be used without a club.Some even contain harnesses and cameras which are used to provide visual feedback to analyze stroke mechanics. These devices are cumbersome and are typically specific to a certain type of club or type of shot and do not have broad applications.

[0010] Wherefore it is an object of the present disclosure to overcome the above-mentioned shortcomings and drawbacks associated with tire conventional golf training devices.SUMMAR Y OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0011] It has been recognized that current methods for teaching proper golf swings have limitations. Body mechanics are challenging and coupled to playing on varied terrain makes it a complex problem to solve. By using a laser device located on the player’s leading arm a projected laser line is projected onto a playing surface, a player can quickly learn how and when to modify their stance and correct their arm position for a swing to achieve tire shot they want for a particular situation.

[0012] One aspect of the present disclosure is a system comprising a wearable training device, comprising; a tube-shaped body sized to receive a player's leading arm; and a laser portion. In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a wearable training device, wherein the tube-shaped body has one or more adjustable straps. In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a wearable training device, wherein the laser portion projects a projected laser line onto a playing surface.

[0013] In certain aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a wearable training device. wherein the laser portion has a pivotable head for aligning the projected laser line to intersect a ball at address. In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a wearable training device, wherein the laser portion has a rotatable head for orienting the projected laser line in a parallel or perpendicular orientation.

[0014] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a wearable training device, further comprising a wedge for adjusting the laser portion in relation to a longitudinal axis of a player’s arm so tire projected laser line intersects a ball at address. In certain aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a wearable training device, further comprising one or more slots sized for receiving one or more stiffeners.

[0015] In another aspect, the techniques described herein relate to a wearable training device, comprising; a tube-shaped body sized to receive a player's leading arm; one or more adjustable straps on the tube-shaped body; and a laser portion, the laser portion having a head that is rotatable and pivotable about a longitudinal axis of the laser portion.

[0016] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a wearable training device, wherein the laser portion projects a projected laser line onto a playing surface. In someaspects, the techniques described herein relate to a wearable training device, further including a wedge for adjusting the laser portion with respect to a longitudinal axis of a player's arm so the projected laser line intersects a ball at address. In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a wearable training device, further comprising one or more slots sized for receiving one or more stiffeners. I

[0017] In yet another aspect, the techniques described herein relate to a method of training, comprising projecting a laser line onto a playing surface via a laser portion of wearable training device, wherein the wearable training device is configured to receive a player’s leading arm.

[0018] In some cases, the method further comprises adjusting a fit of the wearable training device using one or more adjustable straps. In some aspects, the method further comprises aligning a projected laser line to intersect a ball at address. In some aspects, the method further comprises inserting one or more stiffeners into one or more slots in a tube-shaped body of the wearable training device.

[0019] In some aspects, the method is wherein aligning the projected laser line includes moving a pivotable head of the laser portion. In some aspects the method is wherein aligning the projected laser tine includes adjusting an angle famed by a longitudinal axis of the laser portion with respect to a longitudinal axis of a player's outstretched arm when the wearable training device is on a player's leading arm.

[0020] In some aspects, the method further comprises orienting the projected laser tine by rotating a rotatable head of the laser portion.

[0021] These aspects of the disclosure are not meant to be exclusive and other features. aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art when read in conjunction with the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from the following description of particular implementations of the disclosure, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which like reference characters refer to the same parts throughout the different views. The drawings are not necessarily to scale; emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 1A and FIG. IB show a representative closed golf stance and an open golf stance, respectively.

[0024] FIG. 1 C shows different golf club positions correlating to an open, a square, and a closed stance, respectively.

[0025] FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B, and FIG. 2C show various representative swing planes for the game of golf.

[0026] FIG. 3 shows a player using a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 4A shows one implementation of a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure without the laser attached.

[0028] FIG. 4B shows one implementation of a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure without the laser attached and having removable stiffeners.

[0029] FIG. 5A shows one implementation of a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure with an adjustable laser head.

[0030] FIG 5B shows one implementation of a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure with an adjustable laser head.

[0031] FIG. 6A shows one implementation of a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 6B shows one implementation of a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the presort disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 7 A shows a player using a wearable laser training device in parallel orientation according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 7B shows a player using a wearable laser training device in perpendicular orientation according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 8A shows a player using a wearable laser training device for a roll release according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 8B shows a player using a wearable laser training device for a throw release according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 8C shows a player using a wearable laser training device for a hold-off release according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 9A shows a player using a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 9B shows a player using a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 9C shows a player using a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 10 is a flowchart of one implementation of a method of using a wearable laser training device of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 11 A is a perspective view of one implementation of a mount for a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 11 B is a perspective view of one implementation of a mount for a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 11C is a perspective view of one implementation ofa mount for a wearable laser training device being inserted into one implementation of a tube-shaped body according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 11D is a perspective view of one implementation of a laser portion being mounted on one implementation of a mount fpr a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 11E is a perspective view of one implementation of a laser portion mounted on a mount inserted into one implementation of a tube-shaped body according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 11F is a perspective view of one implementation of a laser portion mounted on one implementation of a mount for a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0048] Body mechanics are challenging and coupled to playing golf on varied terrain makes a great golf shot a complex problem to solve. In one implementation of the present disclosure. a laser device is located on a player’s leading arm and projects a projected laser line onto the playing surface. A player can quickly learn how and when to modify their stance and correct their arm position during a swing to achieve the shot they want for a particular situation.

[0049] A player’s stance refers to how the golfer positions themselves in order to play a stroke; it is fundamentally important aspect to play a stroke effectively. The stance adopted is determined by what stroke is being played. All stances involve a slight crouch. Crouching allows for a more efficient striking posture while isometrically preloading the muscles of the legs and core; allowing the stroke to be played more dynamically and with a greater level of overall control. When adopting a stance, golfers start with (heir non-dominant side of the body facing the target (e.g., for a right-hander, the target is to their left). Setting a stance regarding the position of the ball, and placing the clubhead behind the ball, is known as being at address; when in this position the player's body and the centerline of the club face arepositioned parallel to the desired line of travel, with the player’s feet either perpendicular to that line or slightly splayed outward.

[0050] The player’s feel are commonly shoulder-width apart for middle irons and putters. narrower for short irons, and wider for long irons and woods. The ball is typically positioned more to the "front" of the player's stance (closer to the leading foot) for lower-lofted clubs, with the usual ball position for a drive being just behind the arch of the leading foot. The ball is placed farther "back” in the player's stance (toward the trailing foot) as the loft of the dub to be used increases. Most iron shots and putts are made with the ball roughly centered in the stance, while a few mid- and short-iron shots are made with the ball slightly behind the center of the stance to ensure consistent contact between the ball and clubface.

[0051] A golfer chooses a golf club, grip, and stroke appropriate to the distance needed for their shot:

[0052] A "drive" or "full swing" is used on the teeing ground and fairway, typically with a wood or long iron, to produce the maximum distance capable with a club. In the extreme, the windup can end with the shaft of the club parallel to the ground above the player's shoulders.

[0053] An "approach" or "3 / 4 swing" is used in medium- and long-distance situations where an exact distance and good accuracy is preferable to maximum possible distance, such as to place the ball on the green or "lay up" in front of a hazard. The windup or "backswing" for such a shot typically ends up with the shaft of the club pointing straight upwards or slightly towards the player.

[0054] A "chip" or "half-swing" is used for relatively short-distance shots near the green. with high-lofted irons and wedges. The goal of the chip is to land the ball safely on the green,allowing it to roll towards the hole. It can also be used from other places to accurately position the ball into a more advantageous position. The backswing for this type of shot typically ends with the head of the club between hip and head height

[0055] A "putt" is used in short-distance shots on or near the green, typically made with a"putter,” although similar strokes can be made with medium to high-numbered irons to carry a short distance in the air and then roll (a "bump and run"). The backswing and follow-through of the putt are both abbreviated compared to other strokes, with the head of the club rarely rising above the knee. The goal of the putt is usually to put the ball in the hole, although a long-distance putt may be called a "lag” and is made with the primary intention of simply closing distance to the hole or otherwise placing the ball advantageously.

[0056] Haying chosen a club and stroke to produce the desired distance, the player addresses the ball by taking their stance to the side of it and (except when the ball is in a hazard) grounding the club behind the ball. The golfer then takes their backswing, rotating the club, their arms, and their upper body away from the ball, and then begins their swing, bringing the clubhead back down and around to hit the ball. A proper golf swing is a complex combination of motions, and slight variations in posture or positioning can make a great deal of difference in how well the ball is hit and how straight it travels. The general goal of a player making a full swing is to propel the clubhead as fast as possible while maintaining a single "plane” of motion of the club and clubhead, to send the clubhead into the ball along the desired path of travel and with the clubhead also pointing that direction.[0057j Proper set up for a shot starts with a player’s stance, ft is important to understand the mechanics of a shot before addressing how the wearable laser training device of the presentdisclosure can help a player achieve the results. FIG. 1A - FIG. 2C shows golf stances and swing planes, generally.

[0058] In certain cases, a player may use a square stance where they have their feet parallel to the target line. This stance results in no loft changes and minimal side spin. A square stance promotes an inside-square-inside swing.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 1A,F1G. IB, and FIG. 1C. various golf stances are shown. Referring to FIG. 1 A, a closed stance is shown. There, the club stays square to the target line, bat the player’s feet are positioned such that they are pointing to the right of the target line. This results in de-lofting the ball (creating a lower ball flight) and a right to left spin (a draw). A closed stance promotes an inside-out swing. Referring to FIG. IB, an open stance is shown.There, the club stays square to the target line, but the player’s feet are positioned such that they are pointing to the left of the target line. This results in adding loft to the ball (a higher ball flight) and creates a left to right spin (a fade). An open stance promotes an outside-in swing. Referring to FIG. 1C, different club positions related to open, square, and closed stances are shown. More specifically, if a player has an inside-square-inside club path, they will hit a straight shot if the club is square in the path. If the club is closed in the path (to the left) then they will hook the shot. If they are open to the path (to the right) they will slice the shot If the player has an inside-out club path, they will push the shot if the club is square in the path. If the club is closed in the path (to the left) by a little they will draw the shot. If the club is closed in the path (to the left) by a lot they will hook the shot If a player has an outside- in club path, they will pull the shot if the club is square in the path. If the club is open in the path (to the right) by a little they will fade the shot. If they are open to the path (to thc right) by a lot, they will slice the shot

[0060] Referring to FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B, and FIG. 2C, various swing planes are shown. More specifically, FIG. 2A shows a high plane (steep) swing and FIG. 2C shows a low plane(shallow) swing. FIG, 2B shows an on-plane swing.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 3, a player is shown using a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure. More specifically, a ptoyer uses the wearable laser training device 300 to train themselves in proper body mechanics, stance, and swing to achieve ideal shots and improve their golf game. In some implementations, the wearable laser training device 300 projects a projected laser line 310 onto the playing surface. In certain implementations of the present disclosure, a laser portion 320 on the wearable laser training device is used to provide visual feedback to the player to aid a player in matching an angle of a shaft of a club and the player ’s arm on the way down toward the ball during a swing. In some cases, the wearable laser training de vice also provides feedback as to the type of back swing the player has so that corrections can be made, if needed. As a general notion, a neutral backswing makes for straight ball flight; a steep backswing promotes a fade, and a shallow backswing promotes a draw.

[0062] In some implementations of the present disclosure, the wearable laser training device300 is installed on a player’s arm by having a player slide the wearable laser training device onto their leading arm so the laser portion is located in-between their lower bicep and the top of their forearm (on the elbow joint) and in-between their cubital fossa and their olecranon.In some implementations, a player may use any club and slightly adjust the wearable laser training device either clockwise or counterclockwise about their arm so that the projected laser line is projecting onto the playing surface. In some implementations, a player may adjust the laser portion 320, so the projected laser line is seen as going through the middle of theclubhead. In certain implementations, the projected laser line may be oriented perpendicular to the golf dub shaft and parallel with a player’s shoulders and feet This position represents a square stance as is shown in FIG. 3.

[0063] Referring to FIG. 4A, one implementation of a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure is shown without the laser portion attached for clarity. More specifically, certain implementations of the wearable laser training device of the present disclosure are similar to an elbow brace having one or more adjustable straps 430a, 430b, 430c... that can be used to fit the wearable laser training device to a player’s arm such that it will resist movement on a player’s arm during use. In this figure. the view is looking at the inside of the player’s leading arm such that an elbow region is shown to the right of the player’s arm. It is understood that depending on the handedness of the player, the device can be worn on the left or the right arm. In some cases, the same tube- shaped body can be used irrespective of the handedness of the player. In other cases, a different tube-shaped body is used depending on the handedness of the player.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 4B, one implementation of a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure is shown without the laser portion attached for clarity and having removable stiffeners. More specifically, in some implementations the wearable laser training device has one or more removable stiffeners 446 in the body 442 of the wearable laser training device. These one or more removable stiffeners446 resist bending at the player’s elbow region. In some implementations, one or more slots or recesses 444 are located on the body of the wearable laser training device at the player’s elbow region to receive one or more removable stiffeners 446. By stiffening the elbow on the player’s leading arm, the player's leading arm is forced to stay straight on the back swing andwhen extending through a shot thus producing a wide follow through. While a player may not always need a straight leading arm (e.g, for a wedge shot) the wearable laser training device provides the player with valuable feedback on the effect of the position of their leading arm whether it be rotated or bent, or some combination of the two.

[0065] In cartain implementations of the wearable laser training device of the present disclosure, visual feedback in the form of a projected laser line can help address over-rotation of the player’s forearm and a player’s grip errors that lead to mishits. Certain implementations of the wearable laser training device of the present disclosure can provide feedback on long drives as well. By keeping the player’s elbow straight up through the target, the ball can stay straight even at high speeds. In certain implementations of the wearable laser training device of the present disclosure, visual feedback in the form of a rod mounted perpendicular to an angle mount can provide visual cues in bright light areas where a projected laser would be difficult to see (e.g., in full sun).

[0066] Referring to FIG. 5A, one implementation of a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure with an adjustable laser head is shown.More specifically, one implementation of the wearable laser training device of the present disclosure has a tube-shaped body 542 sized to receive a player’s arm. In some cases, the tube-shaped body comes in various sizes to accommodate different arm sizes. In other cases, the tube-shaped body is adjustable using one or more adjustable straps. In some cases, the one or more straps have hook and loop, or the like, to provide adjustability. In one implementation, a laser portion 530 is removably attached to the tube-shaped body 542. In certain implementations, the laser portion is inserted in a retaining portion 550. In some cases, the laser portion 530 is fixedly attached to the tube-shaped body 542.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 5B, one implementation of a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure is shown with an adjustable laser head.More specifically, in certain implementations a head 560 of a laser portion 530 is adjustable.In some cases, the head 560 of the laser portion 530 is pivotable about the longitudinal axis of the laser portion 570 to create an arcuate range of motion so players of different heights and sizes can position the laser portion, and thus the projected laser line to bisect the ball at address. In some cases, the adjustable laser head allows the player to position the brace directly in the middle of their elbow or slightly above their elbow depending oh which is more comfortable but still retain the benefits of the position of the projected laser line projected from the laser portion of the wearable laser training device.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 6A, one implementation of a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure is shown. More specifically, a laser portion comprises a body 634, a pivotable ball 660, and a rotatable end 636. Although the laser is adjustable from side-to-side about a pivotable ball 660, in certain implementations a rotatable end 636 of the laser portion 630 is rotatable about the axis 690 of a projected laser line. In some cases, a removable wedge 680, or the like, having length and a height may be insertable into a slot 650 or under a strap 655 of the tube-shaped body of the wearable laser training device to adjust the laser to an ideal angle 695 for a player. In some cases, the removable wedge 680 may be comprised of foam, or the like.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 6B, one implementation of a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure is shown. More specifically, in some cases the laser portion 630 needs to be adjustable to create an ideal angle 695 with respect to a longitudinal axis of a user’s outstretched arm so that the projected laser line intersects theball at address. In some cases, fee laser portion of fee wearable laser training device may have an angled body 685, or an angled mount, such that a removable wedge 680, or the like, is not needed to set the laser portion 630 at an ideal angle 695 for a player.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 11A, a perspective view of one implementation of a mount for a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure is shown.More specifically, in certain cases a laser portion will be installed on a mount 1100. In some cases, a mount 1 100 has a base 1102, and an angled support 1104. In certain cases, an angled support 1104 receives a rod 1122. In certain implementations, a rod 1122 is fused to fee angled support via a fused connector 1 120b. In some implementations, the rod is perpendicular to an output of a laser.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 11B, a perspective view of one implementation of a mount for a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure is shown.More specifically, in some cases a mount has a base 1102 and an angled support 1104. In certain cases, an angled support 1104 receives a rod (not shown). In certain implementations, a rod is reversibly attached to the angled support via a threaded connector 1120c.

[0072] Referring to 11 G a perspective view of one implementation of a mount for a wearable laser training device being inserted into one implementation of a tube-shaped body according to the principles of the present disclosure is shown. More specifically, in certain cases a laser portion 1116 will be installed on a mount 1100. In some cases, amount 1100 has a base 1102, and an angled support. In certain cases, an angled support receives a rod. In certain implementations, a rod is reversibly attached to fee angled support via a snap fit connector1120a In some implementations, the laser portion 1116 has a laser output 1118.

[0073] Still referring to FIG. 11C, in some cases the tube-shaped body 11 14 has a slit 1110 in at least one portion, the slit 1110 being sized and configured to receive and retain a mount1100. In some cases, once a mount 1100 is inserted into the slit 1110 of the tube-shaped body1114, a flap 1112 can be folded back over the tube-shaped body and reversibly secured to retain the mount.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 11D, a perspective view of one implementation of a laser portion being mounted on one implementation of a mount fpr a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure is shown. More specifically, in certain cases a laser portion 1 116 will be reversibly attached to an angled support 1104 via a laser mount portion 1108, which is sized and configured to be received by an angled support mount1106. In certain implementations, the laser portion pivots about the laser mount portion (with respect to the body of the laser portion) providing for adjustment of the laser when installed in the tube-shaped body. In certain implementations, the laser mount portion is mated to an angled support mount as shown here. In other cases, the angled support is configured to receive the laser portion via a reversible connection.

[0075] Still referring to FIG, 11D, in some cases the tube-shaped body 1114 has a slit 1110 in at least one portion, the slit 1110 being sized and configured to receive and retain a mountIn some cases, once a mount is inserted into the slit 1110 of the tube-shaped body 11.14, a flap 1112 can be folded back over the tube-shaped body and reversibly secured to retain the mount In certain cases, the angled support 1104 receives a rod. In certain implementations, a rod is reversibly attached to the angled support via a threaded connector and secured via a screw 1124, or the like.

[0076] Referring to FIG. 11E, a perspective view of one implementation of a laser portion mounted on a mount inserted into one implementation of a tube-shaped body according to toe principles of the present disclosure is shown. More specifically, in some cases once a mount is inserted into the slit of toe tube-shaped body 1114, a flap 1 112 can be folded back over toe lube-shaped body and reversibly secured to retain toe mount In certain cases, toe angled support receives a rod 1122. In certain implementations, a rod 1122 is reversibly attached to the angled support via a threaded connector 1120c and secured via a screw, or the like.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 11F, a perspective view of one implementation of a laser portion mounted on one implementation of a mount for a wearable laser training device according to the principles of toe present disclosure is shown. More specifically, in certain cases a laser portion 1116 will be installed on a mount In some cases, a mount has a base 1102 and an angled support In certain cases, an angled support 1104 receives a rod 1122. In certain implementations, a rod 1122 is reversibly attached to toe angled support via a snap fit connector 1120a. In some implementations, the laser portion 1116 has a laser output 1118. In some cases, the laser output is projected in a direction perpendicular to the rod 1122.

[0078] In one implementation of the present disclosure, the wearable laser training device helps take toe thinking out of a player’s swing. In some cases, toe wearable laser training device provides visual feedback to help a player square their club face and improve toe accuracy of a shot. By receiving feedback from wearable laser training device on toe position of a player’s leading arm, the player can set their swing. In some cases, toe player’s swing will feel shorter when focused on their leading arm as a player’s elbow travels much less than toe club. By focusing on the stance (open, closed, or square) and the position of the player’s elbow on toeir leading arm, a large difference in accuracy can be achieved.

[0079] In addition to improved accuracy by using the wearable laser training device of fee present disclosure, shot distance can also be improved. One method that affects the distance of a resulting shot is called the clock method. In the clock method, a player brings their swing up to a position cm an imaginary clock. For example, if a player’s hands are at 8 o’clock they might hit the ball 35 yards, but if their hands are brought up to 9 o’clock they might hit the ball 45 yards. By using feedback for the wearable laser training device, a player can begin to train themselves in the optimal height of their backswing, while retaining good form, and improve not only the accuracy of their shot, but the range that the ball will travel when struck.

[0080] In certain aspects of the wearable laser training device of the present disclosure, various cues can be used by fee player to adjust their swing and improve their golf game. In some cases, the cues are visual and include but are not limited to, a projected laser line and / or a rod mounted perpendicular to the direction of a laser output. In certain cases, the cues are audible or vibrational. In some cases, the cues can be adjustable or be wet to indicate when the player is in and / or out of an ideal position.

[0081] In certain implementations, there are two different orientations that one can set the wearable laser training device of the present disclosure. In some cases, a player can rotate fee head ofthe laser portion about the longitudinal axis ofthe laserportion to project the projected laser line parallel (PL) with the player's feet. In other cases, a player can rotate the head of the laser portion about the longitudinal axis of the laser portion to project the projected laser line perpendicular (PD) to the player’s feet Whichever orientation the player chooses, parallel or perpendicular, the player can move through each number on an imaginary dock face and build a reference point in their mind that coincides with where the laser is on the ground behind them. In one example, if the player’s hands are at 7 o’clock the projected laser linemay be just behind the player’s backfoot. For 8 o’clock, the projected laser line may be several feet back from that. For 9 o’clock, the projected laser line may be about another four feet back until the player’s arm and the wearable laser training device are parallel to the ground. A final checkpoint in this example (e.g,, 10 o’clock), is when the projected laser line is no longer projecting on the ground (if outside) or on the floor (if inside) but is projected on a wall and / or ceiling (if inside). It is important for a player to build muscle memory for a proper golf swing.Players who transition too quickly and don’t pause between a backswing and a downswing tend to take the club too far back or not back far enough due to their body’s motion and the elasticity of their muscles.

[0082] It is understood that the speed and tempo of a golf swing can also affect the distance traveled by the ball. Speed in this context is the speed of a clubhead at impact with a ball, and tempo is the time it takes for a player’s swing to reach impact (with the ball). In certain implementations of the present disclosure, the wearable laser training device is used to help modify a player's tempo. In some cases, a player can use visual feedback from the projected laser line starting from when they start their backswing, through their downswing, and all the way through impact.

[0083] In some implementations, audio or vibrational feedback is also used. There, signals may be used to match the location of the projected laser line to a sound or vibration in order to allow the player to work on modifying their tempo. In certain implementations of the present disclosure, a player may count out loud a 2: 1 or 3 : 1 ratio, use a metronome to match the laser, or use video footage to match the laser with various positions on the ground. Having the projected laser line visible to the player or some other visual cue can help the player to detect when their arm stops going backwards in the transition of the golf swing and when thepoint of contact with the ball is made. These visual cues are important, because many amateur golfers struggle to feel where the club is in the backswing, creating timing issues and inconsistent ball striking. For example, a golfer struggling wife a rushed downswing before full extension in the top of their backswing will be able to utilize the wearable laser training device of fee present disclosure to correct improper swing mechanics by waiting for the projected laser line to reach a specific cue point before they begin their transition to the downswing.

[0084] When chasing speed in a golf swing, arm breakdown and mishits usually occur. By using the wearable laser training device of the present disclosure, a player can see what the breakdown is and get better accuracy at max speed. In some cases, by following the projected laser line up through the target a player can keep the ball straight even at high speeds.

[0085] Another consideration with ball speed in golf is lag and compression. In some cases, players race the club to the ball before their hands get there. If a player can gain control of their swing, they can get effortless speed out of their shot Two components of a golf swing that lead to more consistent ball striking and ball speed are lag and compression. In a quality golf swing, lag refers to the club head’s position relative to the player’s arms in the downswing. Ideally, the club head should fall behind the player's arms. For example, in a quality golf swing, the shaft of the golf club should be at around a 90-degree angle relative to the player's lead forearm at the time when the shaft is parallel to the ground in a downswing.This is achieved by maintaining the same wrist angle created at the top of fee swing until this position. It is at this point in fee downswing that fee club should be ‘released' by reducing fee wrist angle. This creates additional speed through impact and proper shaft lean.

[0086] Lag also directly correlates to compression of the golfball, as compression is created by a combination of shaft lean and club head speed at impact. A well compressed golfball will create optimal spin, distance, and accuracy. Many amateur golfers struggle to create optimal lag in their downswing due to an early release of the club head. Certain implementations of the wearable laser training device of the present disclosure improve the player's timing of club head release by using various cue points from the projected laser line's position on the ground to help the player create optimal lag, thus increasing the strike quality.In accordance with the principles: of the present disclosure, a player keeping their elbow and the wearable laser training device moving forward through impact of the golf ball is a simple and effective path to consistent golf. The development of muscle memory is a staple of implementations of the wearable laser training device and of a quality golf swing.[0087| Referring to FIG. 7A, a player using a wearable laser training device in parallel orientation according to the principles of the present disclosure is shown. More specifically, in certain implementations the wearable laser training device 700 can be used to improve lag and compression when the laser is set to the parallel orientation (PL). This is a position where the projected laser line is projected parallel to the player’s feet In this image when the projected laser line reaches the ball, the club head is parallel to the ground and is a cue to the player that the club head should be released for impact. The player’s hands and club head should not be ahead of the projected laser line at impact for a proper release so that energy is not lost before contact with (he golf ball occurs.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 7B, a player using awearable laser training device in perpendicular orientation according to the principles of the present disclosure is shown. More specifically. in certain implementations the wearable laser training device 700 can be used lb improve lagand compression when the projected laser line is set to the perpendicular (PD) orientation.This position is when (he projected laser line is projected perpendicular to the player’s feet.In this image, the projected laser line reaches the ball before the player’s hands, and the club is at the point of impact with the ball. The player’s hands and the club head should not be ahead of the projected laser line at impact with the ball for a proper release, so energy is not lost before contact with the golfball occurs.

[0089] A player needs awareness of their arm structure, body control, and elbow control to control their shot By using the wearable laser training device of the present disclosure, a player can use all three forms of release depending on what the shot requires. Three forms of release are the roll, the throw, and the hold off. The roll is not a recommended release, but it can produce speed. The throw provides power, distance, speed, and accuracy and is when the club follows through over the player’s left shoulder. The hold off is the most accurate form of release.

[0090] As has been discussed previously, implementations of the wearable laser training device of the present disclosure can be used with two different laser positions, the parallel orientation and the peipendicular orientation. The same principles for alignment, backswing. and follow through are used for the wearable laser training device, however, the projected laser line looks different for each release. A player struggling with hitting their targets is generally having a problem with their sequencing. A player struggling with sequencing can use the wearable laser training device of the present disclosure monitor where the projected laser line or other visual cue is at impact The player may then use the wearable laser training device to make sure the projected laser line is pointing in the direction of their desired target line through impact with the ball.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 8A, a player using a wearable laser training device for a roll release according to the principles of the present disclosure is shown. More specifically, in certain implementations the projected laser line or other visual cue after a roll release will look almost horizontal just after impact with the ball. This release produces a lot of speed, but it is the hardest release to square the chib face at impact due to the speed of the closure rate on the club head. Correct sequencing is so important with a roll release. In certain cases, a player can use the projected laser line or other visual cue to ensure they turn (or roll) the club over at the correct time. If they turn (or roll) the club over with their arms too early in the swing it will result in a hook, and if they turn (or roll) the club over with their arms too late in the swing it will result in a slice.

[0092] Referring to FIG. SB, a player using a wearable laser training device for a throw release according to the principles of the present disclosure is shown. More specifically, in certain implementations the projected laser line or other visual cue after a throw release will be in between the hold off and roll release positions. Here, the club face does not roll over. but rather the club face stays on plane with the player’s arms leading to a more accurate shot but retains a lot of speed due to a break of the wrists through impact.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 8C, a player using a wearable laser training device for a hold-off release according to the principles of the present disclosure is shown. More specifically, in certain implementations the projected laser line or other visual cue after a hold-off release will stay almost completely vertical after impact. This results in tremendous accuracy as the club’s face stays square to the target line even after impact

[0094] Referring to FIG. 9A, FIG. 9B, and FIG. 90, a player is shown using a wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure. More specifically, aplayer uses the wearable laser training device 900 to train themselves in proper body mechanics, stance, and swing to achieve ideal shots and improve their golf game. In some implementations, the wearable laser training device 900 projects a projected laser line 910 onto the playing surface. In certain implementations of the present disclosure, a laser portion920 on the wearable laser training device is used to provide visual feedback to the player to aid a player in matching an angle of a shaft of a club and the player’s aim on the way down toward the ball during a swing. In some cases, the wearable laser training device also provides feedback as to the type of back swing the player has so that corrections can be made, if needed.More specifically, in FIG. 9A the player is using a square stance; in FIG. 9B the player is using a closed stance; and in FIG. 9C the player is using an open stance. In each case, the player uses certain implementations of the wearable laser training device according to the principles of the present disclosure to provide visual, audible, or vibrational feedback to improve a shot’s accuracy.

[0095] It is understood that the wearable laser training device of the present disclosure can be used with various stances, swings, and releases and can be used by amateur and professional golfers. The wearable laser training device can be used by any player in any setting from indoor training to 18 holes and beyond. A player can use it with any club and in many different situations.[0096j Referring to FIG. 10, a flowchart of one implementation of a method of using a wearable laser training device of the present disclosure is shown. More specifically, at step1010, a player projects a laser line onto a playing surface via a laser portion of wearable training device, wherein the wearable training device is configured to receive a player's leading arm to aid in training for an improved golf swing.

[0097] Various inventive concepts may be embodied as one or more methods, of which an example has been provided. The acts performed as part of the method may be ordered in any suitable way. Accordingly, implementations may be constructed in which acts are performed in an order different than illustrated, which may include performing some acts simultaneously, even though shown as sequential acts in illustrative implementations.

[0098] While various inventive implementations have been described and illustrated herein,(hose of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means and / or structures for performing the function and / or obtaining the results and / or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each of such variations and / or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the inventive implementations described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and / or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the inventive teachings is / 'are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific inventive implementations described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing implementations are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, inventive implementations may be practiced otherwise titan as specifically described and claimed. Inventive implementations of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and / or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems. articles, materials, kits, and / or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits,and / or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the inventive scope of the present disclosure.

[0699] The articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should be understood to mean “at least one.” The phrase“and / or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims (if at all), should be understood to mean “either or both" of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with“and / or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e,, “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and / or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and / or B", when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising" can refer, in one implementation, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another implementation, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another implementation, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc. As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and / or” as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, “or" or “and / or” shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items.Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as “only one of’ or "exactly one of,” or. when used in the claims, “consisting of," will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e. ‘‘one or the other but not both") when preceded byterms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of.”“Consisting essentially of,” when used in the claims, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

[0100] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one" refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “at least one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one ofA and / or B”) can refer, in one implementation, to at least one, optionally including more than one. A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another implementation, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other titan A); in yet another implementation, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally inducting more than one,B (and optionally including other elements); etc. fOlOlj When a feature or element is herein referred to as being “on” another feature or element, it can be directly on the other feature or element or intervening features and / or elements may also be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being“directly on" another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present.It will also be understood that, when a feature or element is referred to as being “connected”,“attached” or “coupled” to another feature or element, it can be directly connected, attached or coupled to the other feature or element or intervening features or elements may be present.In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being “directly connected”, “directly attached” or “directly coupled” to another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. Although described or shown with respect to one implementation, the features and elements so described or shown can apply to other implementations. It will also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that references to a structure or feature that is disposed “adjacent" another feature may have portions that overlap or underlie the adjacent feature.

[0102] Spatially relative terms, such as “under”, “below”, “lower”, “over”, “upper", “above”,“behind”, “in front of, and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another elements) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the wearable laser training device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if a w earable laser training device in the figures is inverted, elements described as “under” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “over” the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term“under” can encompass both an orientation of over and under. The wearable laser training device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. Similarly, the terms “upwardly”.“downwardly", “vertical”, “horizontal", “lateral”, “transverse”, “longitudinal”, and the like are used herein for the purpose of explanation only unless specifically indicated otherwise.

[0103] Although the terms “first” and “second” may be used herein to describe various features / elements, these features / elements should not be limited by these terms, unless the context indicates otherwise. These terms may be used to distinguish one feature / element from anothet feature / element. Thus, a first feature / element discussed herein could be termed a second feature / element, and similarly, a second feature / element discussed herein could be termed a first feature / element without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0104] An implementation is an implementation or example of the present disclosure.Reference in the specification to "an implementation,” “one implementation,” “some implementations,” “one particular implementation,” “an exemplary implementation,’’ or“other implementations,” or the like, means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the implementations is included in at least some implementations, but not necessarily all implementations, of the disclosure. The various appearances “an implementation,’ “one implementation," "some implementations," “One particular implementation," “an exemplary implementation,” or “other implementations," or the like, are not necessarily all referring to the same implementations.

[0105] If this specification states a component, feature, structure, or characteristic “may”.“might”, or “could” be included, that particular component; feature, structure, or characteristic is not required to be included. If the specification or claim refers to “a" or “an" element, that does not mean there is only one of the elements. If the specification or claims refer to “an additional” element, that does not preclude there being more than one of the additional elements.

[0106] As used herein in the specification and claims, including as used m the examples and unless otherwise expressly specified all numbers may be read as if prefaced by the word“about” or “approximately,” even if the term does not expressly appear. The phrase “about” or “approximately’" may be used when describing magnitude and / or position to indicate that the value and / or position described is within a reasonable expected range of values and / or positions. For example, a numeric value may have a value that is + / -0.1 % of the stated value(or range of values), + / -1 % of toe stated value (or range of values), + / -2% of the stated value(or range of values), + / ~5% of the stated value (or range of values), + / -10% of the stated value (or range of values), etc. Any numerical range recited herein is intended to include all sub-ranges subsumed therein.

[0107] Additionally, toe method of performing the present disclosure may occur in a sequence different than those described herein. Accordingly, no sequence of the method should be read as a limitation unless explicitly stated. It is recognizable that performing some of the steps of the method in a different order could achieve a similar result.

[0108] In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all transitional phrases such as“comprising,” “including," “carrying,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” “holding,’“composed of," and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, Le., to mean including but not limited to. Only toe transitional phrases “consisting of’ and “consisting essentially of* shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively, as set forth in toe UnitedStates Patent Office Manual of Patent Examining Procedures.

[0109] In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used for brevity, clearness, and understanding. No unnecessary limitations are to be implied therefrom beyond the requirement of the prior art because such terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed.

[0110] Moreover, the description and illustration of various implementations of the disclosure are examples and the disclosure is not limited to the exact details shown or described.

[0111] While the principles of the disclosure have been described herein, it is to be understood by those skilled in the art that this description is made only by way of example and not as a limitation as to the scope of the disclosure. Other implementations are contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure in addition to the exemplary implementations shown and described herein. Modifications and substitutions by one of ordinary skill in the art are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed:

1. A wearable training device, comprising; a tube-shaped body sized to receive a player’s leading arm; and a laser portion reversibly attached to a mount.

2. The wearable training device according to claim 1 , wherein the tube-shaped body has one or more adjustable straps.

3. The wearable training device according to claim 1, wherein the laser portion projects a projected laser line onto a playing surface.

4. The wearable training device according to claim 3, wherein the laser portion has a pivotable head and / or body for aligning the projected laser line to intersect a ball at address.

5. The wearable training device according to claim 3, wherein the laser portion has a rotatable head for orienting the projected laser line in a parallel or perpendicular orientation.

6. The wearable training device according to claim 3, further comprising an angled support for positioning the laser portion in relation to a longitudinal axis of a player’s arm so the projected laser line intersects a ball at address.

7. The wearable training device according to claim 1, further comprising one or more slots sized for receiving one or more stiffeners.

8. The wearable training device according to claim 6, further comprising a rod configured to be mounted to the angled support.

9. A wearable training device, comprising; a tube-shaped body sized to receive a player’s leading arm;one or more adjustable straps on toe tube-shaped body; and a laser portion having a longitudinal axis, the laser portion having a head that is rotatable and / or pivotable about the longitudinal axis of the laser portion.

10. The wearable training device according to claim 9, wherein the laser portion projects a projected laser line onto a playing surface.

11. The wearable training device according to claim 10, further coinprising ah angled support for positioning the laser portion with respect to a longitudinal axis of a player’s arm so the projected laser line intersects a ball at address.

12. The wearable training device according to claim 11, further comprising a rod configured to be mounted to toe angled support.

13. The wearable training device according to claim 9, further comprising one or more slots sized for receiving one or more stiffeners.

14. A method of training, comprising: projecting a laser line onto a playing surface via a laser portion of wearable training device to create a projected laser line, wherein the wearable training device is configured to receive a player’s leading arm.

15. The method of training according to claim 14, further comprising adjusting a fit of the wearable training device using one or more adjustable straps.

16. The method of training according to claim 14, further comprising aligning a projected laser line or other visual cue to intersect a ball at address.

17. The method of training according to claim 14, further comprising inserting one or more stiffeners into one or more slots in a tube-shaped body of the wearable training device.

18. The method of training according to claim 16, wherein aligning the projected laser line comprises moving a pivotable head and / or body of the laser portion.

19. The method of training according to claim 16, wherein aligning the projected laser line comprises adjusting an angle formed by a longitudinal axis of the laser portion with respect to a longitudinal axis of a player’s outstretched arm when the wearable training device is worn on a player’s leading arm.

20. The method of training according to claim 14, further comprising orienting the projected laser line to a parallel or a perpendicular orientation by rotating a rotatable head of the laser portion.

Images