Putting practice implement, connector, and putting practicing method

Abstract

Provided are a putting practice implement, a connector, and a putting practicing method that make it possible to easily master consistent putting in a nearly practical state.　The putting practice implement comprises: a rod in which, when being used, the upper end is placed on the chest of a user so as to serve as a fulcrum, and the lower end is connected to the shaft of a putter; and a connector that is provided to the lower end of the rod and is attached to the shaft of the putter. The connector comprises a first connection part that is fixed to the lower end of the rod, and a second connection part that is detachably attached to the shaft of the putter.

Description

Putting practice device, connector, and putting practice method

[0001] The present invention relates to a putting practice device, a connector, and a putting practice method. The present invention claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-112435, filed on July 12, 2024, and the contents of that application are incorporated by reference into this application in designated states where incorporation by reference of documents is permitted.

[0002] As an implement for practicing putting in golf, for example, a practice putter has been proposed, which is characterized in that it includes: "a main shaft having a grip at one end and a putter head at the other end, the putter head having a face surface and a non-face surface opposite the face surface; an auxiliary shaft having a first rod and a second rod, the first rod having an abutment member at the upper end and a joining member at the lower end of the second rod, the joining member being connected to the non-face surface of the putter head of the main shaft, and the auxiliary shaft and the main shaft being installed so as to form an angle with each other; a connecting means being provided at the connection point between the first rod and the second rod, the first rod being hollow, and the second rod being able to move relatively within the first rod and the connecting means to adjust the length of the auxiliary shaft" (see claim 1 of Patent Document 1).

[0003] Utility Model Registration No. 3180735

[0004] The above-mentioned Patent Document 1 states that with the above-mentioned practice putter, the user can independently control the movements of their arms and shoulders relative to the putter, thereby enabling them to perform ideal hitting movements (see paragraph 0006 of Patent Document 1).

[0005] However, in the practice putter, a joint member is provided at the lower end of the second rod of the auxiliary shaft, and this joint member is connected to the non-face surface of the main shaft of the putter head. In other words, in the practice putter, two shafts, the main shaft and the auxiliary shaft, are installed in the putter head, and due to their installation positions, it is difficult to make the two shafts overlap when viewed from above.

[0006] Therefore, when practicing putting, the user will always have to observe two shafts at the same time, which may be bothersome or may confuse the object of observation, making it difficult to concentrate on the practice.

[0007] Furthermore, if a user practices using and observes this practice putter with two shafts attached to the head, they may feel uncomfortable with a normal putter with one shaft attached to the head during actual play (practice), and it may take time for them to adapt.

[0008] The present invention is intended to solve at least one of the above problems, and aims to provide a putting training device, a connector, and a putting training method that allow players to easily master stable putting in a state that is closer to actual putting.

[0009] One aspect of the present invention for solving the above problem is a putting practice device comprising: a rod whose upper end is placed against the user's chest as a fulcrum when in use and whose lower end is connected to a putter shaft; and a connector provided at the lower end of the rod and attached to the putter shaft, wherein the connector comprises a first connector fixed to the lower end of the rod and a second connector detachably attached to the putter shaft.

[0010] The second connecting portion may be annular with a notch, elastic, and capable of being fitted onto the outer periphery of the shaft of the putter.

[0011] The axial direction of the first connecting portion and the axial direction of the second connecting portion may be parallel to each other.

[0012] The axial direction of the first connection portion and the axial direction of the second connection portion may intersect so as to open upward, or may be in a twisted positional relationship.

[0013] The inner peripheral surface of the second connection portion may be tapered in cross section.

[0014] The connector may include a fastener for closing an opening formed by the notch in the second connector portion.

[0015] The fastener may be a screw.

[0016] The fastener may be a ring clip or a pinch clip.

[0017] The lower end of the rod and the first connecting portion may be fixed together by a combination of at least one of press-fitting, fitting, bonding, welding, and screwing.

[0018] The device may include a chest pad that is fixed to the upper end of the rod and that abuts against the chest of the user.

[0019] The putter may further include a guide device connected to the connector and indicating the angle of the face of the putter.

[0020] One aspect of the present invention for solving the above problem is a connector used in a putting training device that has a rod whose upper end is placed against the user's chest as a fulcrum during use, and that has a first connector fixed to the lower end of the rod and a second connector removably attached to the shaft of a putter, with the second connector attached to the shaft of the putter to connect the lower end of the rod to the shaft of the putter.

[0021] One aspect of the present invention for solving the above problem is a putting practice method, which includes preparing a putting practice device comprising a putter, a rod, and a connector attached to the lower end of the rod, removably attaching the connector to the shaft of the putter to connect the lower end of the rod to the shaft of the putter, and practicing putting by placing the upper end of the rod against the chest as a fulcrum.

[0022] One aspect of the present invention for solving the above problem is a putting practice method, which includes preparing a putter, a rod, and a connector having a first connection part and a second connection part, fixing the first connection part to the lower end of the rod, removably attaching the second connection part to the shaft of the putter, connecting the lower end of the rod to the shaft of the putter, and applying the upper end of the rod to the chest as a fulcrum to practice putting.

[0023] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a putting training device, a connector, and a putting training method that allow a player to easily learn stable putting in a state that is closer to actual putting.

[0024] Problems, configurations, and effects other than those described above will become apparent from the following description of the embodiments.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an outline of a putting practice apparatus and a putting practice method according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an example of a putting practice apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a first modification of the first embodiment of the connector of the putting practice apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a second modification of the first embodiment of the connector of the putting practice apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a third modification of the first embodiment of the connector of the putting practice apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a fourth modification of the first embodiment of the connector of the putting practice apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a second embodiment of the connector of the putting practice apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a connector of the putting practice apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a connector of the putting practice apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a connector of the putting practice apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a connector of the putting practice apparatus according to the present invention.

[0026] Hereinafter, examples of embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that components common to the following embodiments will be assigned the same reference numerals as those previously mentioned, and their description may be omitted. Furthermore, when referring to the shape, positional relationship, etc. of components, etc., it is understood that the reference numerals include those that are substantially similar or similar to the shape, etc., unless otherwise specified or when it is clearly considered otherwise in principle.

[0027] <Patting practice device> Figure 1 is a diagram for explaining an overview of the putting practice device and putting practice method according to the present invention, where (a) is a schematic view observed from the left (the face side of the head), and (b) is a schematic view observed from the front (in front of the user).

[0028] As shown in the figure, a putter P, which is a type of golf club, has a shaft P1, a head P2 connected to the lower end of the shaft P1, and a grip P3 that a user holds. As shown in the figure, some putters P have the lower end of the shaft P1 directly connected to the head P2, but many have a curved (bent) neck between the lower end and the head P2, and the lower end is connected to the head via the neck. Note that the neck may be formed integrally with the head P2 or the shaft P1, and the present invention is suitable for either type.

[0029] Putting in golf is a shot in which the ball lands on the green on a golf course and the aim is to put the ball into the cup. The swing method and ball trajectory are different from shots with other clubs, and it requires unique practice.

[0030] Putting requires more delicate sensations than shots with other clubs, and image and feeling are considered more important. The ideal putting shot is to imagine it as a pendulum, swinging from side to side at a constant speed. For example, it is considered desirable to form a triangle (with straight elbows and lines connecting both shoulders and the grip) or a pentagon (with bent elbows and lines connecting both shoulders, elbows and the grip) and maintain that shape from start to finish.

[0031] The putting training tool 1 of this embodiment is a tool for practicing putting with a putter P, and is used as a training tool for acquiring a desirable putting motion and remembering a good image.

[0032] As shown in the figure, the putting training device 1 comprises a rod 2 and a connector 3. The connector 3 is provided at the lower end of the rod 2 and is attached to the shaft P1 of the putter P. The putting training device 1 preferably further comprises, but is not limited to, a chest pad 4 fixed to the upper end of the rod 2.

[0033] The rod 2 is a part whose upper end is placed against the user's chest as a fulcrum during use. The rod 2 is, for example, a rod-shaped member that extends linearly and has a circular cross section. If the putting training device 1 is equipped with the chest support part 4, the upper end of the rod 2 is placed against the chest via the chest support part 4. If the putting training device 1 is not equipped with the chest support part 4, the upper end of the rod 2 is placed directly against the chest.

[0034] The rod 2 is disposed in front of and overlaps the shaft P1. The rod 2 preferably has a thickness equal to or greater than the thickness of the shaft P1 of the putter P, and more preferably has a thickness greater than the thickness of the shaft P1.

[0035] By configuring the putting training tool 1 in this manner, when it is stacked correctly as shown in the figure, the part of the shaft P1 above the connector 3 is hidden below the rod 2 when viewed from above or from the front, making it easier to concentrate on practice.

[0036] The lower end of the rod 2 is connected to the shaft P1 of the putter P. That is, if the putter P has a neck, the rod 2 is connected to the shaft P1 located above the neck. As shown in FIG. 1( a), if the putter P does not have a neck, the position where the rod 2 is connected to the shaft P1 (connection position) is a point spaced a distance B above the head P2. Distance B varies depending on various factors, such as the user's height, the length of the rod 2, the length of the shaft P1, and the user's putting posture, but is, for example, about 10 cm to 50 cm, preferably about 10 cm to 20 cm. Although not shown, if the putter P has a neck, the connection position is a position where at least the lower end of the shaft P1 is visible, for example, about 5 cm to 45 cm, preferably about 5 cm to 20 cm above the neck.

[0037] By configuring the putting training tool 1 in this manner, the part of the shaft P1 near the bottom end can be seen, and when practicing putting, the ball, head P2, and the part of the shaft P1 near the bottom end (if there is a neck, the neck and the part of the shaft P1 near the bottom end) can be seen, allowing practice in a more realistic state.

[0038] That is, when practicing putting, if the rods lined up to the left or right of the shaft are viewed simultaneously with the shaft, or if the shaft is completely hidden by the rod and only the rod is viewed, the image seen during practice may differ greatly from what is seen in practice, and the desired image may not be formed in practice. The putting training device 1 of this embodiment solves this problem because the rods 2 overlap in front with the lower end of the shaft P1 visible, allowing the user to master the desired putting motion and memorize the desired image in a state closer to actual practice.

[0039] The connector 3, details of which will be described later, comprises a first connector 31 fixed to the lower end of the rod 2 and a second connector 32 detachably attached to the shaft P1 of the putter P (see Figure 3 and subsequent figures described below).

[0040] <Patting Practice Method 1> When practicing putting, first prepare a putter P and a putting practice tool 1 including a rod 2 and a connector 3 provided at the lower end of the rod 2. The putting practice tool 1 may further include a chest pad 4 fixed to the upper end of the rod 2.

[0041] Next, the connector 3 is attached to the shaft P1 of the putter P, and the lower end of the rod 2 is connected to the shaft P1 of the putter P. More specifically, the second connecting portion 32 of the connector 3 is detachably attached to the shaft P1.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 1, the upper end of the rod 2 is placed against the chest as a fulcrum, either directly or via the chest rest 4, and putting practice is carried out.

[0043] As mentioned above, it is important to swing the putter P back and forth evenly like a pendulum when putting. However, if you practice by holding the putter P only with your arms and hands, as in practice, it will shake and it will be difficult to master the desired movement and good image. On the other hand, if the putter P is a long putter, fixing the top of the putter P to your upper body will improve the reproducibility of the swing and enable a straight swing in the direction of launch (which will also result in a straight ball trajectory). However, fixing the top of the putter P to your upper body is often considered a violation of the rules in practice.

[0044] The putting practice device 1 and putting practice method of this embodiment allow the player to practice putting in a more realistic situation by placing the upper end of the rod 2 against the chest and using it as a fulcrum, thereby acquiring a feeling similar to a swing in which the upper end of the putter P is fixed to the upper body, as with a long putter.

[0045] In this putting practice, as shown in Figure 1(b), by swinging a putter P connected to a rod 2 whose upper end is placed against the chest as a fulcrum, the putter P can be swung back and forth together with the rod 2 like a pendulum, and the player can master the motion of swinging the putter P like a pendulum. Furthermore, by visually checking the ball, the head P2, and the lower end of the shaft P1 (or the neck and the lower end of the shaft P1) during this swing, the player can memorize a good image of the swing. By repeating this type of practice, the player can learn stable putting in a manner closer to actual practice, thereby improving the accuracy of their putting in practice.

[0046] 2A and 2B are diagrams illustrating examples of putting training devices according to the present invention, with (a) being a front view of one example and (b) being a front view of another example. In each diagram, X indicates the front-to-rear direction (+X is forward), Y indicates the up-down direction (longitudinal, vertical) (+Y is upward), and Z indicates the left-to-right direction (lateral) (+Z is right) (the same applies to all subsequent diagrams). The diagram shows the putting training device 1 positioned so that the longitudinal direction of the rod 2 is aligned with the Y direction. Below, each component of the putting training device 1 will be described in more detail.

[0047] The rod 2 is a rod-shaped member made of a material such as carbon or metal. The rod 2 may be cylindrical with cavities extending in the axial direction, may have cavities in one or more locations, or may be solid throughout. The rod 2 may be uniform in thickness as shown in the figure, or may have a thickness that gradually decreases toward the bottom end. The rod 2 is usually manufactured specifically for this purpose. If the user has an alignment stick for golf practice or an unused shaft, these may be used instead of the rod 2.

[0048] 2(b), the rod 2 may have a marking 21 on the front outer surface, which is a straight line along the longitudinal direction and indicates the center of the left and right. By configuring the rod 2 in this way, the user can practice putting by swinging the rod left and right at a constant rate using the marking 21 as a guide.

[0049] As an example, one rod 2 is provided. As an example, two or more rods 2 may be provided. In this case, if rods of different lengths in multiple sizes, for example, S, M, and L sizes, are provided, the length can be changed depending on various factors such as the user's physical characteristics such as height, the length of the shaft P1, the user's putting posture, and practice method. As an example, the rod 2 may be configured to be extendable.

[0050] The connector 3 is provided at the lower end of the rod 2. The connector 3 is preferably configured to have elasticity. The connector 3 is made of a material such as silicone rubber or urethane sponge. The connector 3 having appropriate elasticity allows the angle of the rod 2 relative to the shaft P1 to be adjusted without being completely fixed, and also allows the user's putting body movements to be close to real movements without being unnaturally restricted by the rod 2. Note that, since appropriate angle adjustment may be possible depending on the elasticity of the shaft P1 and the rod 2, the play at the connection points between the components, etc., the connector 3 may be partially or entirely made of a relatively rigid material such as metal, carbon, or plastic. The connector 3 may also be made of multiple materials with different elasticity and rigidity.

[0051] When one rod 2 is provided, one connector 3 is provided, and for example, it is permanently fixed to the lower end of the rod 2. When two or more rods 2 are provided, for example, one connector 3 is provided, and it is removably fixed to the lower end of the rod 2 used for each practice. When two or more rods 2 are provided, for example, two or more connectors 3 are provided, and they are permanently fixed to the lower end of each rod 2, or they are permanently fixed to the lower end of some of the rods 2 that are used more frequently and removably fixed to the lower ends of the remaining rods 2.

[0052] The chest pad 4 is fixed to the upper end of the rod 2 and is a part that abuts against the user's chest. The chest pad 4 is placed, for example, around the middle between the left and right sides of the chest. As with the connector 3, one or more chest pads 4 are provided depending on the number of rods 2, and are fixed in a removable or non-removable manner.

[0053] The chest pad 4 is preferably elastic, cushioned, and non-slip. For example, the chest pad 4 is made of a material such as silicone rubber or urethane sponge. By configuring the chest pad 4 in this way, it is possible to reduce the impact on the user's chest and reduce positional shifting.

[0054] The chest piece 4 is not particularly limited, but is preferably rounded, for example spherical. By configuring the chest piece 4 as a fulcrum for the rotating rod 2 in this way, the degree of freedom can be increased.

[0055] <Embodiment 1 of the Connector> Figures 3 and 4 show an example of embodiment 1 of the connector of the putting training device according to the present invention, in which Figure 3(a) is a top view, Figure 3(b) is a side view, Figure 3(c) is a front view, Figure 3(d) is a rear view, Figure 4(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA, and Figure 4(b) is a cross-sectional view to explain an example of the state of use.

[0056] As described above, the connector 3 is used in a putting training device that includes the rod 2, the upper end of which is placed against the user's chest as a fulcrum during use. The connector 3 includes a first connecting part 31 that is fixed to the lower end of the rod 2, and a second connecting part 32 that is detachably attached to the shaft P1 of the putter P. The second connecting part 32 of the connector 3 is attached to the shaft P1 of the putter P, and connects the lower end of the rod 2 to the shaft P1 of the putter P.

[0057] As one example, the connector 3 is provided to the user as part of the putting training device 1, fixed to the rod 2. As one example, the connector 3 may be provided to the user as a separate unit, and the user may assemble the putting training device 1 by fixing it to the rod 2. For example, if the user has an alignment stick for golf practice or an unused shaft, the user can use such a connector 3 to assemble the putting training device 1.

[0058] As shown in Figure 3(a), the connector 3 is preferably configured symmetrically along a center line AA along the X direction. Hereinafter, in this embodiment and its modifications, and in the embodiments and modifications described later, cross-sectional views will be taken as cross-sectional views along line AA unless otherwise specified. Note that the connector 3 may be configured asymmetrically as long as it does not contradict the spirit of the present invention.

[0059] The connector 3 has a first connecting portion 31 on the front side and a second connecting portion 32 on the rear side, with the boundary being an imaginary line shown by a two-dot chain line in the figure. That is, the rear end side of the first connecting portion 31 and the front end side of the second connecting portion 32 of the connector 3 are integrally formed, and a portion of the fixing hole M and the mounting hole N described below are formed by a common wall portion (common wall portion). The boundary line is, for example, the center line of the common wall portion, which is perpendicular to the AA center line. As an example, the connector 3 has an outer peripheral surface 301 that is generally oval when viewed from above. Note that the shape of the outer peripheral surface 301 as a whole or the outer peripheral surface shapes of the first connecting portion 31 and the second connecting portion 32 of the connector 3 of this embodiment are not particularly limited.

[0060] The first connecting portion 31 has an inner peripheral surface 311 that is circular in top view, and is fixed to the lower end of the rod 2 by a fixing hole M that is surrounded by the inner peripheral surface 311. As shown in the figure, the fixing hole M is, for example, a through hole that penetrates in the thickness direction (vertical direction). Although not shown, the fixing hole M is, for example, a bottomed hole that does not penetrate in the thickness direction. In other words, the first connecting portion 31 may have, for example, the inner peripheral surface 311 and a bottom wall that closes the inner peripheral surface 311 from below.

[0061] The first connecting portion 31 and the lower end portion of the rod 2 are fixed to each other by, for example, a combination of at least one of press-fitting, fitting, bonding, welding, and screwing.

[0062] The second connecting portion 32 is annular and has a notch, and is elastic. As described above, the connector 3 is made of a material such as silicone rubber, and the second connecting portion 32 has elasticity. The notch defines an opening Q in the second connecting portion 32, and this opening Q allows the second connecting portion 32 to be easily fitted onto the outer periphery of the shaft P1.

[0063] More specifically, as shown in FIG. 3( a), the second connecting part 32 has an inner peripheral surface 321 that is C-shaped (circular with a cutout) when viewed from above. The outer periphery of the shaft P1 at the mounting position is accommodated within a mounting hole N surrounded by the inner peripheral surface 321. The mounting hole N penetrates in the thickness direction (vertical direction). The second connecting part 32 has an opening Q at the rear that communicates with the mounting hole N, and the shaft P1 is received and accommodated in the mounting hole N through the opening Q. The left-to-right width of the opening Q of the second connecting part 32 is smaller than the diameter of the shaft P1, but because the opening Q is elastic, even if it deforms when the shaft P1 is passed through it, it returns to its original state after the shaft P1 has passed through. The second connecting part 32 can be attached simply by fitting it onto the shaft P1 through the opening Q, and can be removed simply by pulling the connector 3 or the shaft P1, making attachment and detachment simple and easy.

[0064] As an example, as shown in Figure 4 (a), the connector 3 is formed so that the axial direction (central axis C1) of the first connecting portion 31 and the axial direction (central axis C2) of the second connecting portion 32 are parallel.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 4( b ), for example, the diameter of the fixing hole M (inner peripheral surface 311) of the connector 3 is approximately equal to the diameter of the lower end of the rod 2. Here, the rod 2 is fixed so that the axis S1 coincides with the axial direction of the first connecting portion 31. More specifically, the rod 2 is fixed in the fixing hole M so that the lower end is not exposed from the lower end of the first connecting portion 31, preferably so that the lower end is located above the lower end of the first connecting portion 31. As another example, the lower end of the rod 2 may protrude downward from the lower end of the first connecting portion 31, as long as the visibility of the lower end of the shaft P1 is not reduced. In this case, the downward protrusion length is preferably a length that does not cause the lower end of the rod 2 to interfere with the shaft P1 or the like during normal use.

[0066] As an example, the connector 3 is configured such that the diameter of the mounting hole N (inner peripheral surface 321) is larger than the diameter of the shaft P1, providing play for vertically shifting the mounting position and allowing the shaft P1 to be tilted. As shown in FIG. 4( b), this configuration allows the shaft P1 to be tilted at an angle α after mounting on the shaft P1, and to contact the front lower end and rear upper end of the mounting hole N and remain within the mounting hole N. Furthermore, by bringing the inclination of the shaft P1 closer to 0 (bringing the axis S2 closer to the central axis of the mounting hole N), the mounting position can be shifted vertically, allowing the angle relative to the rod 2 to be easily adjusted.

[0067] The diameter of the attachment hole N (inner peripheral surface 321) may be approximately equal to the diameter of the shaft P1. In this case, the elastic force (and restoring force) of the second connection portion 32 allows the shaft P1 to be tightly attached to the inner peripheral surface 321, more firmly clamping the shaft P1 (preventing misalignment). Because the second connection portion 32 is elastic, the angle of the shaft P1 can also be adjusted.

[0068] 1(a), in putting practice according to the present invention, the shaft P1 is angled relative to the rod 2. In the connector 3 of this embodiment, the rod 2 is fixed vertically, while the attachment position of the shaft P1 can be adjusted up and down, and the angle relative to the rod 2 can be adjusted, so that putting practice can be performed with the shaft P1 adjusted to a more desirable angle.

[0069] <Patting Practice Method 2> When the connector 3 is provided to the user as part of the putting practice tool 1, the user can practice by the above-described putting practice method 1. When the connector 3 is provided separately and fixed to the rod 2 on the user side, the user can practice by this method.

[0070] As an example, first, a putter P, a rod 2, and a connector 3 including a first connecting portion 31 and a second connecting portion 32 are prepared. A chest pad 4 may be fixed to the upper end of the rod 2.

[0071] Next, the first connecting portion 31 is fixed to the lower end of the rod 2, and the second connecting portion 32 is detachably attached to the shaft P1 of the putter P, thereby connecting the lower end of the rod 2 to the shaft P1 of the putter P.

[0072] 1, the upper end of the rod 2 is placed against the chest as a fulcrum, either directly or via the chest pad 4, and putting practice is performed. This method can achieve the same effects as those described above.

[0073] In this method and the above-mentioned putting practice method 1, the second connecting part 32 of the connector 3 can be used to adjust the height position and angle of the rod 2 relative to the shaft P1 before or after the upper end of the rod 2 is placed against the chest using the rod 2 as a fulcrum, and then practice can be performed.

[0074] 5A and 5B are diagrams showing a first modification of the first embodiment of the connector of the putting training device according to the present invention, with (a) being a cross-sectional view and (b) being a cross-sectional view used to explain an example of how the connector is used. The connector 3 of this example differs from the first embodiment in the second connection portion 32. The following description will focus on the differences, and redundant descriptions will be omitted where appropriate (the same applies to each of the following modifications).

[0075] As shown in Figure 5(a), in this example, the connector 3 is in a twisted position where the axial direction (central axis C1) of the first connecting portion 31 and the axial direction (central axis C2) of the second connecting portion 32 intersect so as to open upward.

[0076] In the connector 3 of the first embodiment, both the fixing hole M (inner peripheral surface 311) and the mounting hole N (inner peripheral surface 321) are rectangular in cross section, whereas in the connector 3 of the present embodiment, the fixing hole M (inner peripheral surface 311) is rectangular in cross section and the mounting hole N (inner peripheral surface) is a parallelogram in cross section. Here, the second connecting portion 32 has an inherent angle β, as shown in FIG. 5( a).

[0077] As an example, as shown in Figure 5(b), the diameter of the mounting hole N of the second connecting portion 32 is slightly larger than the diameter of the shaft P1, providing play for vertically shifting the mounting position. By configuring the second connecting portion 32 in this manner, the connector 3 allows the shaft P1 to contact the front upper end and rear lower end of the mounting hole N and remain in the mounting hole N. By increasing the contact area between the mounting hole N and the shaft P1 compared to the first embodiment, vertical positional deviation can be reduced. By bringing the inclination of the shaft P1 closer to the inherent angle β, the mounting position can be vertically shifted, allowing the angle relative to the rod 2 to be easily adjusted.

[0078] Although not shown, the diameter of the attachment hole N of the second connecting portion 32 may be, for example, approximately equal to the diameter of the shaft P1. By configuring the connector 3 in this manner, the shaft P1 can be tightly held in place (preventing displacement) by tightly contacting the inner circumferential surface 321. The second connecting portion 32 is elastic, so the angle of the shaft P1 can also be adjusted.

[0079] 6A and 6B are diagrams showing a second modification of the connector of the putting training device of the present invention, in which (a) is a cross-sectional view, (b) illustrates an example of a state of use using the cross-sectional view, and (c) illustrates another example. The connector 3 of this example differs from the first embodiment and its first modification in that the second connection portion 32 is different.

[0080] In the connector 3 of this example, the fixing hole M (inner peripheral surface 311) is rectangular and the mounting hole N (inner peripheral surface 321) is tapered (trapezoidal) in a cross-sectional view. That is, the second connecting portion 32 has an inherent angle β.

[0081] 6( a) and 6(b), the connector 3 has, as an example, a mounting hole N (inner peripheral surface 321) that is tapered, narrow at the bottom and wide at the top. The diameter of the bottom end of the mounting hole N is preferably approximately equal to or slightly larger than the diameter of the shaft P1.

[0082] 6(c), for example, the attachment hole N (inner peripheral surface 321) of the connector 3 is tapered, narrowing at the top and widening at the bottom. The diameter of the upper end of the attachment hole N is preferably approximately equal to or slightly larger than the diameter of the shaft P1.

[0083] By configuring the connector 3 in this example in this way, the lower end (or upper end) of the mounting hole N (inner circumferential surface 321) can be brought into appropriate close contact with the shaft P1, more effectively preventing misalignment in the up-down direction. At the same time, it is easy to change the angle of the shaft P1 with the lower end (or upper end) of the mounting hole N (inner circumferential surface 321) as the fulcrum.

[0084] 7A and 7B are diagrams showing a third modification of the connector of the putting training device of the present invention, in which (a) is a cross-sectional view and (b) is a cross-sectional view used to explain an example of the state of use. The connector 3 of this example differs from the first embodiment and the modifications in that the first connecting portion 31 is different.

[0085] As shown in Fig. 7(a), in the connector 3 of this example, for example, both the fixing hole M (inner peripheral surface 311) and the mounting hole N (inner peripheral surface 321) are formed as parallelograms in cross section. As an example, the axial direction (central axis C1) of the first connecting portion 31 and the axial direction (central axis C2) of the second connecting portion 32 are parallel. As shown in Fig. 7(b), in the first connecting portion 31, the diameter of the fixing hole M is larger than the diameter of the lower end of the rod 2, and the lower end of the rod 2 is installed vertically. In this way, in the first connecting portion 31, the fixing hole M may be formed in a shape other than a rectangle in cross section.

[0086] As an example, as shown in the figure, the connector 3 may have a first connection portion 31 having a bottom wall 312, and the fixing hole M may be configured as a bottomed hole. In this case, the lower end of the rod 2 is preferably fixed in contact with the bottom wall 312.

[0087] 8A and 8B are diagrams showing a fourth modification of the connector of the putting training device of the present invention, in which (a) is a cross-sectional view and (b) is a cross-sectional view used to explain an example of the state of use. The connector 3 of this example differs from the first embodiment and the modifications in that the first connecting portion 31 is different.

[0088] As shown in the figure, the first connection portion 31 of this example includes a buffer portion 313 within the fixing hole M. The buffer portion 313 is generally cylindrical in top view and has a shape corresponding to the shape of the fixing hole M in cross section. The buffer portion 313 may have a bottom as shown in the figure, or may have no bottom. The buffer portion 313 is made of a material that has elasticity and cushioning properties. In this example, the lower end of the rod 2 is fixed so that the outer circumferential surface (or the outer circumferential surface and lower end surface) is covered by the buffer portion 313.

[0089] Putting practice requires fine adjustments to posture and form, and during such adjustments, the rod 2, whose upper end is in contact with the chest, can also move to some extent to reduce the strain on the chest. As mentioned above, the connector 3 has elasticity and can respond to body movements to some extent, but by providing the buffer section 313 as in this example, the strain on the chest can be further reduced. Note that the second connector 32 may also be provided with a cylindrical buffer section within the attachment hole N, which detachably covers the outer circumferential surface of the shaft P1.

[0090] 9 to 12 are diagrams showing an example of a connector for a putting training device according to a second embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a top view and (b) is a diagram illustrating the state in which the opening is closed. The connector 3 of this embodiment differs from the first embodiment and its variations in that it includes a fastener 33 that closes the opening Q of the second connection portion 32. The following description will focus on the differences, and redundant description will be omitted where appropriate.

[0091] As shown in Fig. 9(a), for example, the connector 3 has an outer peripheral surface 301 that is generally rectangular in top view. The connector 3 includes a fastener 33 that closes a rear opening Q formed by a notch in the second connection portion 32. As shown in Fig. 9, for example, the fastener 33 is a screw. Note that in the drawing, the thread groove on the outer peripheral surface of the screw shaft 331 of the fastener 33 is omitted.

[0092] The second connecting portion 32 has threaded holes 322 formed along the left-right direction across the opening Q. Here, the threaded holes 322 are formed on both the left and right sides of the opening Q. Note that in the drawing, the thread grooves on the inner circumferential surfaces of the threaded holes 322 are not shown.

[0093] When closing the opening Q of the second connecting portion 32, the fastener 33 is screwed into the screw hole 322 in the direction of the arrow, and the opening Q can be closed as shown in FIG. 9(b).

[0094] In putting practice, the connector 3 of the first embodiment can be easily adjusted to a more desirable angle for the shaft P1 by adjusting the attachment position relative to the shaft P1. On the other hand, in repeated practice after adjustment, it may be preferable to fix the attachment state so that the height position of the rod 2 relative to the shaft P1 does not shift.

[0095] The connector 3 of this embodiment is suitable for such a case, and can fix the attachment state to the shaft P1 by fastening the fastener 33 to the second connecting portion 32 to close the opening Q so as to prevent the opening Q from expanding. The configuration of the fastener 33 is not particularly limited as long as it fastens to the second connecting portion 32 so as to prevent the opening Q from expanding.

[0096] As shown in Fig. 10(a), for example, the connector 3 has an outer peripheral surface 301 formed in a generally gourd shape when viewed from above. As shown in Fig. 10(b), the fastener 33 is, for example, a ring-shaped clip with a notch and a generally C-shape when viewed from above. When closing the opening Q of the second connecting portion 32, the fastener 33 is fitted from behind onto the outer peripheral surface 301 on the second connecting portion 32 side in the direction of the arrow, thereby closing the opening Q as shown in Fig. 10(b). Because the fastener 33 is a ring-shaped clip, it can be fastened to the second connecting portion 32 without the need for any additional tools.

[0097] 11, the fastener 33 may be, for example, a ring-shaped clip having a handle 332. By having the handle 332, the fastener 33 becomes easier to operate.

[0098] As an example, the fastener 33 may be a clamping clip as shown in Fig. 12. The clamping clip allows the tips to be spread apart by pressing a pair of handles in opposite directions, making it easier to fasten the clip to the outer peripheral surface 301 on the second connecting portion 32 side. The configuration of the clamping clip is not particularly limited as long as it can clamp the outer peripheral surface 301 on the second connecting portion 32 side. For example, a torsion coil spring or a leaf spring is used as a means for biasing the pair of tips in the clamping direction.

[0099] In putting practice using the connector 3 of this embodiment, the second connector 32 is attached to the shaft P1 of the putter P, the lower end of the rod 2 is connected to the shaft P1 of the putter P, the height position and angle of the rod 2 relative to the shaft P1 are adjusted, and then the fastener 33 is fastened to the second connector 32. Then, as shown in Fig. 1, the upper end of the rod 2 is placed against the chest as a fulcrum, either directly or via the chest rest 4, to practice putting.

[0100] The fastener 33 may be configured to more firmly secure the second connecting portion 32 to the shaft P1. For example, in the case of the fastener 33 shown in FIG. 9 , the threads of the screw hole 322 are not provided on the left side of the opening Q, but on the right side of the opening Q. When the fastener 33 is turned in the fastening direction, the elastic second connecting portion 32 deforms so that the opening Q narrows (the inner diameter of the mounting hole N becomes smaller). For example, in the case of the fastener 33 shown in FIGS. 10 to 12 , by configuring the inner diameter of the clip portion to be smaller than the outer diameter of the second connecting portion 32, the elastic second connecting portion 32 can be deformed so that the opening Q becomes narrower.

[0101] <Other Modifications of the Connector> In each of the above-described embodiments and modifications of the connector 3, the connector 3 has been described as being made of an elastic body, but the connector 3 is not limited to this configuration. A part of the connector 3 may be made of an elastic body.

[0102] As an example, the outer periphery and vicinity of the mounting hole N of the second connecting portion 32 of the connector 3 may be configured with a tubular member, and the remaining area may be configured with a separate member (referred to as a holding member) that holds the tubular member. The opening Q may be formed in the same manner. Alternatively, the tubular member may be formed of an elastic material such as silicone rubber, and the holding member may be formed of a material with higher rigidity than the tubular member, such as metal, carbon, or plastic. Even with this configuration, the second connecting portion 32 has elasticity around the outer periphery of the mounting hole N and its vicinity, allowing for adjustment of the angle of the shaft P1. Furthermore, the outer periphery and vicinity of the fixing hole M of the first connecting portion 31 may be configured in the same manner. In this case, the first connecting portion 31 has elasticity around the outer periphery of the fixing hole M and its vicinity, allowing for adjustment of the angle of the rod 2. Note that a tubular member may be provided only on the first connecting portion 31 side, not on the second connecting portion 32 side.

[0103] Contrary to the above example, the holding member may be made of an elastic material such as silicone rubber, and the cylindrical member may be made of a material with higher rigidity than the holding member, such as metal, carbon, plastic, etc. Even in this configuration, the holding member that holds the cylindrical member has elasticity, so the angle can be adjusted.

[0104] <Guide Tool> The putting training device 1 may be equipped with a guide tool. This guide tool indicates the angle of the putter head face during the putting motion, and is a tool that makes it easier for the user to recognize the tilt of the face (the left / right orientation relative to the direction of the ball's launch). In particular, the tilt of the face during a shot has a significant effect on the direction of travel of the ball, so control of the face is important.

[0105] An example of a guide device will be described below with reference to Figures 13 and 14. Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of an embodiment of a guide device for a putting training device according to the present invention, and Figure 14 is a diagram showing an outline of a training method using the guide device.

[0106] As shown in FIGS. 13( a) and 13(b), the guide tool 5 is detachably attached to the fastener 33. The guide tool 5 has a guide rod 51 and connecting portions (connecting members 52 and 53). The guide rod 51 is a long, straight rod or plate member, and its length is, for example, 10 to 30 cm, which is equal to or greater than the width of the head P2 in the X direction. The connecting member 52 is formed integrally with or fixed to the guide rod 51 at or near the center of the guide rod 51. The connecting member 53 is formed integrally with or fixed to the handle of the fastener 33. The connecting members may be connected to each other by any method as long as they are detachable, and may be connected by any combination of at least one of press-fitting, fitting, adhesive, screwing, and magnetic attraction, for example. The guide rod 51, when attached to the fastener 33, or by adjustment after attachment, is preferably arranged so that the longitudinal direction of the guide rod 51 is aligned along the Z direction, which is perpendicular to the XY plane passing through the centers of the fixing hole M and the attachment hole N of the connector 3. Note that, like the fastener 33, the guide rod 51 is arranged behind the shaft P1, and therefore does not obstruct visibility of the portion of the shaft P1 near the lower end.

[0107] FIG. 14 shows a state in which a connector 3 is attached to a shaft P1 (not shown), connecting the lower end of a rod 2 (not shown) to the shaft P1, and a guide rod 51 is attached to a fastener 33 via a connecting portion. In this state, the longitudinal direction of the guide rod 51 is perpendicular to the XY plane including the face of the head P2 (left side in the figure). When practicing ideal pendulum-like putting, for example, the swing is performed so that the face of the head P2 remains perpendicular to the Z-direction arrow shown in the figure and does not shift in the X-direction position during at least part of the swing trajectory, including the shot. If the face tilts even slightly, the shaft P1 also rotates simultaneously, and the guide rod 51 also rotates accordingly, allowing the user to immediately and intuitively recognize the tilt of the face and the direction of the tilt (left or right relative to the ball's launch direction). To actually see the Z-direction arrow shown in the figure rather than just visually, a stick such as an alignment stick can be placed on the ground and used.

[0108] While the guide device 5 has been described above in combination with the connector 3 (and fastener 33) shown in Fig. 12, it goes without saying that it can also be combined with the connectors 3 (and fastener 33) shown in Figs. 9 to 11. Furthermore, the guide device 5 is not limited to being detachably attached to the fastener 33, but may also be configured to be detachably attached to the connector 3 body. In other words, the guide device 5 can be applied to the connectors 3 according to each embodiment and each modified example described in this specification. Furthermore, the guide device 5 may be integrally formed with or fixed to the fastener 33 or the connector 3 body.

[0109] Although the above describes exemplary embodiments of the putting training device, connector, and putting training method according to the present invention, these are merely examples of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these. The present invention also includes combinations of the above embodiments and their modifications, as well as various other modifications. Various additions, modifications, and partial deletions are possible within the scope of the conceptual idea and spirit of the present invention, which can be derived from the content defined in the claims and their equivalents.

[0110] 1...putting practice device, 2...rod, 3...connecting device, 301...outer surface, 31...first connecting portion, 311...inner surface, 32...second connecting portion, 321...inner surface, 33...fastener, 4...chest pad portion, 5...guide device, 51...guide rod, 52...connecting member, 53...connecting member, M...fixing hole, N...mounting hole, Q...opening.

Claims

1. A putting training device comprising: a rod whose upper end is placed against the user's chest as a fulcrum in use and whose lower end is connected to a putter shaft; and a connector provided at the lower end of the rod and attached to the putter shaft, wherein the connector has a first connector fixed to the lower end of the rod and a second connector detachably attached to the putter shaft.

2. The putting training device according to claim 1, wherein the second connecting portion is annular with a notch, has elasticity, and can be fitted onto the outer periphery of the shaft of the putter.

3. The putting training device according to claim 1, wherein the axial direction of the first connecting portion and the axial direction of the second connecting portion are parallel.

4. The putting training device according to claim 1, wherein the axial direction of the first connecting part and the axial direction of the second connecting part cross each other so as to open upward, or are in a twisted positional relationship.

5. A putting training device as set forth in claim 2, characterized in that the inner peripheral surface of the second connecting portion is tapered in cross section.

6. A putting training device according to claim 2, characterized in that the connecting device is provided with a fastener for closing an opening formed by the notch in the second connecting portion.

7. The putting training device of claim 6, wherein the fastener is a screw.

8. The putting training device according to claim 6, wherein the fastener is a ring clip or a pinch clip.

9. The putting training device according to claim 1, wherein the lower end of the rod and the first connecting portion are fixed together by a combination of at least one of press-fitting, fitting, bonding, welding, and screwing.

10. The putting training device according to claim 1, further comprising a chest pad secured to the upper end of the rod and adapted to contact the user's chest.

11. The putting training device according to claim 1, further comprising a guide device connected to the connector and indicating the angle of the putter face.

12. A connector used in a putting training device having a rod whose upper end is placed against the user's chest as a fulcrum in use, the connector comprising: a first connector fixed to the lower end of the rod; and a second connector removably attached to the shaft of a putter, the second connector being attached to the shaft of the putter to connect the lower end of the rod to the shaft of the putter.

13. A putting practice method comprising: preparing a putting practice device comprising a putter, a rod, and a connector attached to the lower end of the rod; removably attaching the connector to the shaft of the putter to connect the lower end of the rod to the shaft of the putter; and practicing putting by placing the upper end of the rod against the chest as a fulcrum.

14. A putting practice method comprising the steps of: preparing a putter, a rod, and a connector having a first connection part and a second connection part; fixing the first connection part to the lower end of the rod, removably attaching the second connection part to the shaft of the putter, connecting the lower end of the rod to the shaft of the putter; and practicing putting by placing the upper end of the rod against the chest as a fulcrum.

Images