Golf equipment carrier with navigation systems

Abstract

The present invention provides a golf equipment system comprising a dedicated electronic golf navigation device including a navigation display, and two or more golf equipment carriers; a first golf equipment carrier comprising a golf trolley including means for providing power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device; one or more further golf equipment carriers each comprising one of a golf trolley distinct from the first golf equipment carrier or a golf bag; each golf equipment carrier comprising a connector portion configured to mate with a corresponding connector portion of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device such that the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is removably mechanically secured to the golf equipment carrier; wherein the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is configured to be interchangeably secured to the two or more golf equipment carriers.

Description

[0001] Golf Equipment Systems

[0002] Field

[0003]

[0001] The present invention relates to a golf equipment system including golf equipment with positioning and / or navigation capability.

[0004] Background

[0005]

[0002] Positioning and navigation devices (typically referred to as “GPS” devices) are commonplace on golf courses. They are used to help a player determine their position on the course, aid their navigation of the course and assist their play. For example, precise distance measurement (e.g. to the hole or green), hazards, or key course features may be provided to the player, to assist in navigating the course or for club selection.

[0006]

[0003] Typically, such devices form an integrated part of a vehicle (e.g. an electric golf trolley) or are worn or carried by a player, for example in the form of a smart watch.

[0007]

[0004] The present inventors have identified several problems with current devices.

[0008]

[0005] Integrated GPS devices, e.g. formed as part of an electric golf trolley, are often chosen for the enhanced (e.g. hands-free and more user-friendly) experience they provide compared to handheld or wearable devices. However, when a player leaves the vehicle, such as by parking the trolley to approach their golf ball on the fairway, access to positioning and navigation assistance, at crucial moments, is hindered or lost. A player will typically be stood well away from their trolley, and therefore the GPS device, when at their ball and preparing to take their next shot.

[0009]

[0006] Additionally, Golf Clubs often restrict the use of vehicles, including golf trolleys and golf buggies or carts, to protect the course during periods of inclement weather, for example, to prevent damage to the ground.

[0007] Any departure of the player from the vehicle leaves the player without valuable positioning and navigation assistance, which can otherwise improve the quality and enjoyment of their golf.

[0010]

[0008] Also, while the main body of a golf trolley or vehicle can last for many years with proper care, electronic devices often need replacement or repair much sooner due to failures or software obsolescence. This can lead to the wasteful and inconvenient need to replace, repair, or at least render inactive, the entire golf trolley, or a large part of it. Existing golf equipment including integrated devices therefore present a repair and upgrade issue.

[0011]

[0009] The emergence of handheld or wearable devices does not adequately compensate for these shortcomings.

[0012]

[0010] Accordingly, there is an ongoing need to address the above-mentioned problems. The present invention aims to solve these and other problems with the prior art.

[0013] Summary

[0014]

[0011] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a golf equipment system comprising a dedicated electronic golf navigation device including a navigation display, and two or more golf equipment carriers.

[0015]

[0012] The system comprises a first golf equipment carrier comprising a golf trolley including means for providing power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device.

[0016]

[0013] The system comprises one or more further golf equipment carriers. Each further golf equipment carrier comprises a golf trolley which is distinct from the first golf equipment carrier or a golf bag.

[0017]

[0014] Each golf equipment carrier comprises a connector portion configured to mate with a corresponding connector portion of the dedicated electronic golf navigationdevice such that the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is removably mechanically secured to the golf equipment carrier.

[0018]

[0015] The dedicated electronic golf navigation device is configured to be interchangeably secured to the two or more golf equipment carriers.

[0019]

[0016] The first golf equipment carrier includes means for providing power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device, and / or the connector portions of the two or more golf equipment carriers are substantially identical to one another.

[0020]

[0017] Typically, the navigation display of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device may be configured to display distance measurement (e.g. front, middle and / or back distances to the hole or green), hazards, or key course features, for example. The navigation display may be configured to display a scorecard or similar.

[0021]

[0018] As described above, the existing options available to golf players, including the emergence of handheld or wearable devices, do not adequately compensate for the shortcomings of devices which are integrated on electric golf trolleys.

[0022]

[0019] As described herein, the term “dedicated electronic golf navigation device” refers to a device which primarily functions as a positioning and navigational, e.g. GPS, device.

[0023]

[0020] As described herein, the term “mechanically secured” refers to the physical, e.g. not solely electrical, securing of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device to the golf equipment carrier via the connector portions of the same, such that the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is retained in position (e.g. on or in the golf equipment carrier) when secured. The mechanical securing is typically stable enough to withstand the usual turbulence associated with a golf trolley, for example, traversing a golf course.

[0024]

[0021] The securing is typically reversible, e.g. the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is configured to be attached to and detached from a golf equipment carrier by a user, e.g. during normal use.

[0022] In embodiments, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is configured such that a display of navigational information is uninterrupted during securing to and / or detachment from a golf equipment carrier. In other words, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is configured so that a reset, e.g. an on / off power reset, is not required while being interchangeably secured to the two or more golf equipment carriers. Advantageously, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is configured to be detachable without interruption to its function as a navigation device (e.g. without interruption of a scorecard display).

[0025]

[0023] Until now, a player is faced with the options of using an integrated GPS device only, a handheld or wearable device only or of using both during play.

[0026]

[0024] Using only an integrated device has the disadvantages discussed above. Using only a handheld / wearable device is not preferred, not least because these devices typically, by their nature, have smaller navigation displays and may have less functionality compared to an integrated device. Also, players typically do not wish to drain the batteries of these devices where possible, e.g. by using them for data-hungry and heavy display tasks. These two options do not adequately address the issues identified by the present inventors.

[0027]

[0025] The present inventors have found that it is common, therefore, for players to own and use several positioning and navigation devices. For example, a player may own an electrically driven golf trolley comprising an integrated navigation device and, in addition, a handheld or wearable device for situations where the golf trolley cannot be used. However, the inventors found this presents a compatibility and usability issue, particularly where two or more devices have different operating systems, user interfaces or controls. It is not convenient for a player to purchase, use and maintain (e.g. keep sufficiently charged) two or more navigation devices, particularly where the software programs of the two or more devices are not integrated with one another. Moreover, where multiple positioning and navigation devices are used, it is typically very difficult for a user to compile data which has been collected by multiple devices. This makes it difficult to track playing improvements or for handicap records, for example, particularly where there is incompatibility between operating systems.

[0026] The configuration of the present invention is particularly advantageous because the golf equipment system provides a player with a single dedicated electronic golf navigation device which can be seamlessly secured to two or more golf equipment carriers. The dedicated electronic golf navigation device can also be detached and used as a handheld device.

[0028]

[0027] An improved golf equipment system with navigation capabilities is provided. The system provides at least the same or more capability as existing golf equipment but while reducing the number of pieces of golf equipment required. For example, fewer navigation devices are required.

[0029]

[0028] The system also improves the usability of golf equipment carriers. For example, in use, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device may be detached from an electrically driven golf trolley (the first golf equipment carrier) and secured to a golf bag (a further golf equipment carrier). A player may maintain access to navigational assistance without the need to switch devices or purchase more than one navigational device. A player may maintain access to navigational assistance when a golf trolley ban is in place. A player may maintain access to digital record keeping, e.g. scorecards, tracking of play improvements, or handicap information.

[0030]

[0029] The golf equipment system may provide means, e.g. a mechanism, preferably a single means, for securing the dedicated electronic golf navigation device to a golf equipment carrier and for permitting the supply of power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device, e.g. without the need for additional user interaction or action. A user may interchangeably attach the dedicated electronic golf navigation device to distinct golf equipment carriers. Each attachment of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device to a golf equipment carrier may comprise a single ‘plug and socket’ joining which provides both mechanical stability and, where the golf equipment carrier comprises means for providing power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device, electrical connection.

[0031]

[0030] The single means may include a physical I mechanical attachment of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device to a golf equipment carrier and an electricalconnection (e.g. to power the dedicated electronic golf navigation device) between the dedicated electronic golf navigation device and the golf equipment carrier.

[0032]

[0031] In embodiments, means for securing the dedicated electronic golf navigation device to a golf equipment carrier may be magnetic means. In embodiments, means for securing the dedicated electronic golf navigation device to a golf equipment carrier may include inductive charging.

[0033]

[0032] In embodiments, the system may comprise a plurality of further golf equipment carriers. For example, the system may comprise a further golf trolley (in addition to the golf trolley of the first golf equipment carrier) and at least one golf bag. In embodiments, the system may comprise a plurality of dedicated electronic golf navigation devices.

[0034]

[0033] As used herein, the term “golf equipment carrier” may refer to a golf trolley, e.g. an electrically driven golf trolley or a non-electrically driven golf trolley, a golf bag, a golf cart or buggy, a bike, scooter, or the like.

[0035]

[0034] In embodiments, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device may comprise one or more of the following: satellite positioning, cellular network positioning, Wi-Fi positioning, Bluetooth positioning, radio frequency identification (RFID), and / or inertial navigation.

[0036]

[0035] In embodiments, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device may comprise a plurality of connector portions, each connector portion being configured to mate with a corresponding connector portion of one or more said golf equipment carriers.

[0037]

[0036] In embodiments, a said connector portion may comprise the whole or part of a clamp, bracket, latch, mount or the like. The corresponding connector portions of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device and the golf equipment carrier may require respective linear, e.g. sliding, and / or rotational, e.g. turning, movement to mate. In embodiments, the corresponding connector portions of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device and the golf equipment carrier may comprise complimentary magnetic surfaces which are attracted to one another when the dedicated electronicgolf navigation device is in close proximity to the golf equipment carrier. In embodiments, the connector portions of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device and the golf equipment carrier may comprise corresponding male and female connector portions. In embodiments, the connector portions of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device and the golf equipment carrier may comprise one or more of the following: sprung pin contacts, blade and clip contacts, magnetic inductive contacts (e.g. Magsafe (RTM)) or the like, which may provide inductive charging of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device.

[0038]

[0037] For example, the connector portions of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device and the golf equipment carrier may comprise corresponding portions of a magnetic inductive charging connector.

[0039]

[0038] In embodiments, the connector portions of each of the golf equipment carriers may be substantially functionally and / or structurally identical. Alternatively, the connector portion of a golf equipment carrier may be different in function and / or structure to the connector portion of another golf equipment carrier, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device being securable to each golf equipment carrier.

[0040]

[0039] In embodiments, the connector portion of the golf equipment carrier may be an integrated connector portion. In other words, the connector portion of the golf equipment carrier may be formed as part of the golf equipment carrier.

[0041]

[0040] In embodiments, the golf equipment carrier may comprise means for providing power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device. In embodiments, each of the golf equipment carriers may comprise means for providing power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device.

[0042]

[0041] In embodiments, the golf equipment carrier may comprise a battery for providing power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device. The battery may be arranged to substantially exclusively power the dedicated electronic golf navigation device. Alternatively, the battery may be arranged to power the golf equipment carrier and / or distinct powerable devices instead of or substantially simultaneously with the dedicated electronic golf navigation device.

[0042] In embodiments, the first golf equipment carrier may comprise an electrically driven golf trolley. In embodiments, the first golf equipment carrier may comprise a non-electrically driven, e.g. push-type, golf trolley.

[0043]

[0043] In embodiments, one or more further golf equipment carriers may comprise an electrically driven golf trolley. In embodiments, one or more further golf equipment carriers may comprise a non-electrically driven, e.g. push-type, golf trolley.

[0044]

[0044] In embodiments, the electrically driven golf trolley of the first or further golf equipment carrier may be itself driveable by a battery. The battery may be configured to power the dedicated electronic golf navigation device. In embodiments, the electrically driven golf trolley may comprise a plurality of batteries or battery packs.

[0045]

[0045] In embodiments, a said non-electrically driven golf trolley may comprise means for providing power to the dedicated electronic navigation device, for example a battery.

[0046]

[0046] In embodiments, a said golf equipment carrier may comprise a golf bag. In embodiments, the golf bag may include means for providing power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device, for example a battery.

[0047]

[0047] In embodiments, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device may include a battery. The battery of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device may be substantially integrated, e.g. non-removable by a user during normal use. In embodiments, the battery of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device may be housed in a removable battery housing (e.g. which is removable by a user during normal use).

[0048]

[0048] In embodiments, the connector portion of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device may be arranged on a rear facing surface of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device. In embodiments, where the dedicated electronic golf navigation device comprises a removable battery housing, the connector portion of the dedicatedelectronic golf navigation device may be arranged on a rear facing surface of the battery housing.

[0049]

[0049] In embodiments, the connector portion of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device may comprise a power contact. In embodiments, the connector portion of at least one of the golf equipment carriers may comprise a corresponding power contact arranged to connect to the power contact of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device, in use. In embodiments, the connector portion of each of the golf equipment carriers of the golf equipment system may comprise a power contact arranged to connect to the power contact of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device, in use. In embodiments, the power contact of the connector portion of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device and / or the power contact of the connector portion of at least one of the golf equipment carriers may comprise an inductive charging power contact.

[0050]

[0050] In embodiments, the connector portion of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device may comprise a non-power contact. A non-power contact may be a data contact, for example (e.g. for conveying data to or from the dedicated electronic golf navigation device). In embodiments, the connector portion of at least one of the golf equipment carriers may comprise a corresponding non-power contact. In embodiments, the connector portion of each of the golf equipment carriers may comprise a non-power contact arranged to connect to the non-power contact of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device, in use. In embodiments, a said non-power contact may comprise an optical data transmitter and / or receiver.

[0051]

[0051] As herein described, a power contact or a non-power contact may refer to a physical, e.g. wired, contact or a non-physical, e.g. wireless contact.

[0052]

[0052] In embodiments, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device may comprise means for wirelessly transmitting or receiving data, e.g. to or from the golf equipment carrier. For example, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device may be configured to receive data corresponding to one or more golf course condition(s), e.g. temperature, humidity, or wind speed and / or direction, from one or more sensors arranged on one or more of the golf equipment carriers. The dedicated electronic golfnavigation device may be configured to receive said data irrespective of whether the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is mechanically secured to the golf equipment carrier comprising the one or more sensors. For example, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device may receive data from several golf equipment carriers in the system.

[0053]

[0053] In embodiments, the connector portion of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device may comprise a magnetic contact. In embodiments, the connector portion of at least one of the golf equipment carriers may comprise a corresponding magnetic contact arranged to mate with the magnetic contact of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device, in use. The connector portions may be electromagnetic. The magnetic contacts of the connector portions may be arranged to facilitate the removable mechanical securing of the dedicated golf navigation device to the golf equipment carrier. In embodiments, the connector portion of each of the golf equipment carriers may comprise a magnetic contact arranged to connect to the power contact of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device, in use.

[0054]

[0054] In embodiments, one or more of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device and the golf equipment carrier may separately or together comprise a lock for selectively locking the electronic golf navigation device to the golf equipment carrier. In embodiments, the golf equipment system may comprise a tether extending between the dedicated electronic golf navigation device and the golf equipment carrier. The tether may be releasable from one or both of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device and the golf equipment carrier. For example, the golf equipment system may comprise a Kensington lock or similar.

[0055]

[0055] In embodiments, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device may comprise means for actuating movement of the golf trolley. The means for actuating movement of the golf trolley may be configured to actuate movement of the golf trolley when the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is separated from the golf trolley. For example, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device may be configured to actuate movement of the golf trolley while secured to the golf bag, held in the hand of the player or worn by them.

[0056] In embodiments, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device may be wearable by a user. For example, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device may comprise means for attaching to the belt of a user, e.g. via a clip or clasp.

[0056]

[0057] In embodiments, the golf equipment system may comprise a charger, e.g. a mains electricity charger, for charging the dedicated electronic golf navigation device. The dedicated electronic golf navigation device may be configured to be charged via the charger while secured to a golf equipment carrier. The dedicated electronic golf navigation device may be configured to be charged via the charger while detached from a golf equipment carrier, e.g. as a standalone unit.

[0057]

[0058] In a further aspect, the present invention provides a golf equipment system comprising a dedicated electronic golf navigation device including a navigation display. The system comprises a golf trolley. The system comprises a golf bag. Each of the golf trolley and the golf bag comprises an integrated connector portion configured to mate with a corresponding integrated connector portion of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device such that the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is removably mechanically secured to the golf trolley or golf bag. The dedicated electronic golf navigation device is configured to be interchangeably secured to the golf trolley and the golf bag. The connector portions of the golf trolley and the golf bag are substantially functionally identical to one another. Each of the golf trolley and golf bag may be configured to provide power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device.

[0058]

[0059] Optionally, the system further comprises one or more of a further golf trolley and / or a further golf bag. Optionally, each golf trolley and each golf bag is configured to provide power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device.

[0059]

[0060] In a further aspect, the present invention provides a golf equipment system comprising a dedicated electronic golf navigation device including a navigation display, and two or more golf equipment carriers; a first golf equipment carrier comprising a golf bag; one or more further golf equipment carriers each comprising a golf trolley or a golf bag distinct from the first golf equipment carrier; each golf equipment carrier comprising a connector portion configured to mate with a corresponding connectorportion of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device such that the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is removably mechanically secured to the golf equipment carrier; wherein the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is configured to be interchangeably secured to the two or more golf equipment carriers.

[0060]

[0061] In a further aspect, the present invention provides a dedicated electronic golf navigation device for the golf equipment system of any preceding aspect. The dedicated electronic golf navigation device may comprise a connector portion which is a substantially integrated connector portion. In embodiments, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device may be a wearable device.

[0061]

[0062] In a further aspect, the present invention provides a golf equipment carrier for the golf equipment system of any preceding aspect. The golf equipment carrier may comprise a connector portion which is a substantially integrated connector portion. In embodiments, the golf equipment carrier may comprise a golf trolley. In embodiments, the golf trolley may be an electrically driven golf trolley. In embodiments, the golf trolley may be a non-electrically drive golf trolley. In embodiments, the golf equipment carrier may comprise a golf bag.

[0062]

[0063] In a further aspect, the present invention provides a golf bag comprising a body and a dedicated electronic golf navigation device including a navigation display. The golf bag body comprises a first connector portion configured to mate with a corresponding connector portion of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device such that the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is removably mechanically secured to the golf bag body.

[0063]

[0064] In embodiments, the golf bag may further comprise means for providing power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device. In embodiments, the golf bag body may comprise means for providing power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device.

[0064]

[0065] In embodiments, the connector portion of the golf bag body may be substantially integrated with the golf bag body.

[0066] In a further aspect, the present invention provides a method comprising: a) providing the golf equipment system of any preceding aspect;

[0065] b) mechanically securing the dedicated electronic golf navigation device to the first or a further golf equipment carrier;

[0066] c) removing the dedicated electronic golf navigation device from the first or further golf equipment carrier;

[0067] d) mechanically securing the dedicated electronic golf navigation device to another of the first or a further golf equipment carrier.

[0068]

[0067] In embodiments, the method may comprise e) repeating steps c. and d, preferably in that order.

[0069]

[0068] In embodiments, the method may comprise repeating steps b) and c), preferably in that order, prior to carrying out steps c) and d), preferably in that order. For example, the method may comprise removing and resecuring the dedicated electronic golf navigation device to the same first or further golf equipment carrier prior to removing the dedicated electronic golf navigation device from the first or further golf equipment carrier and mechanically securing the dedicated electronic golf navigation device to another of the first or a further golf equipment carrier.

[0070]

[0069] The method may comprise removing the dedicated electronic golf navigation device from the first golf equipment carrier (e.g. an electrically driven golf trolley) and mechanically securing the dedicated electronic golf navigation device to a further golf equipment carrier (e.g. a golf bag). The method may further comprise removing the dedicated electronic golf navigation device from the (first) further golf equipment carrier (e.g. the golf bag) and mechanically securing the dedicated electronic golf navigation device either to the first golf equipment carrier (e.g. the electrically driven golf trolley), or to another further golf equipment carrier (e.g. a non-electrically driven golf trolley).

[0071]

[0070] In embodiments, the method may comprise the step of charging the dedicated electronic golf navigation device. The charging step may include charging the dedicated electronic golf navigation device using one of the first or further golfequipment carriers. The dedicated electronic golf navigation device is typically mechanically secured to a golf equipment carrier during charging.

[0072]

[0071] In a further aspect, the present invention may provide a golf equipment kit, the kit comprising a dedicated electronic golf navigation device and two or more golf equipment carriers according to any preceding aspect, and instructions to perform the method described above.

[0073]

[0072] In embodiments, the instructions may include one or more instructions for securing and / or detaching the dedicated electronic golf navigation device to a golf equipment carrier. In embodiments, the instructions may include one or more instructions for powering, e.g. charging, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device.

[0074]

[0073] For the avoidance of doubt, features of aspects and embodiments described herein may be combined, and still fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0075] Brief Description of Figures

[0076]

[0074] Preferred features of the present invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0077]

[0075] Figure 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a system according to the present invention.

[0078]

[0076] Figure 2 illustrates a golf equipment carrier in the form of a golf bag according to the present invention, without a dedicated electronic golf navigation device attached.

[0079]

[0077] Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of the front of a dedicated electronic golf navigation device according to the present invention, including a navigation display.

[0080]

[0078] Figure 4a illustrates a perspective view of the rear of a dedicated electronic golf navigation device according to the present invention, including a connector portion.

[0079] Figure 4b illustrates a perspective view of a connector portion of a golf equipment carrier according to the present invention.

[0081] Detailed Description

[0082]

[0080] An embodiment of a golf equipment system according to the present invention is shown in Figure 1. The golf equipment system 10 comprises a dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12. The golf equipment system 10 further comprises two golf equipment carriers, a golf trolley 14 and a golf bag 16.

[0083]

[0081] The golf trolley 14 comprises a frame 20 including a bag stay 22 and a handle 24. The golf bag 16 comprises a golf bag body 26, a carry handle 28 and stand 30.

[0084]

[0082] The dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 is configured to be removably mechanically securable to each of the golf equipment carriers 14, 16 and interchangeably securable to each of the golf equipment carriers 14, 16. The schematic diagram of Figure 1 illustrates that the single dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 is interchangeably securable to each of the golf trolley 14 and the golf bag 16.

[0085]

[0083] Figure 2 illustrates the golf bag 16 without the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 coupled thereto, via a connector portion 32.

[0086]

[0084] Referring to Figures 4a and 4b, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 comprises a connector portion 34. Each of the golf equipment carriers, 14, 16 comprises a corresponding connector portion, e.g. 32.

[0087]

[0085] The connector portion 34 of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 is configured to mate with the connector portion 32 of a golf equipment carrier 14, 16. Each golf equipment carrier 14, 16 may have a substantially identical connector portion configured to mate with a single connector portion 34 of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12. Alternatively, two or more golf equipment carriersmay comprise different connector portions each configured to mate with a connector portion 34 of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12.

[0088]

[0086] Each of the connector portions is configured such that the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 is detachable from each golf equipment carrier 14, 16. The dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 may thus be interchangeably secured to each golf equipment carrier, or detached and held or worn by a user.

[0089]

[0087] In the embodiment of Figure 1 , the golf trolley 14 (of which only a part is shown) is an electrically driven golf trolley. The golf trolley 14 is powerable by a battery. Typically, the battery forms part of the golf trolley 14. Typically, the battery is housed within a battery housing which is detachable from the golf trolley (e.g. for charging separately from the golf trolley).

[0090]

[0088] The dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 is configured to be powered (e.g. charged) by the golf trolley 14 via the connector portions of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 and the golf trolley 14. The battery of the golf trolley 14 is electrically associated with the connector portion of the golf trolley 14 so that power may be delivered from the battery of the golf trolley 14 to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12.

[0091]

[0089] While Figure 1 shows an electrically drive golf trolley 14 and a golf bag 16, the golf equipment system may instead comprise a non-electrically driven trolley and a golf bag, or a group of golf trolleys and one or more golf bags, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 being interchangeably securable to each of the golf trolleys and golf bags. It is envisaged that each of the golf trolleys and golf bags may comprise means for powering the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12. For example, the golf bag 16 comprises a battery pack (not shown) for powering the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 when it is mechanically secured thereto.

[0092]

[0090] In use, with the golf equipment system of Figure 1 , the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 is typically first secured to one of the golf trolley 14 and the golf bag 16, is subsequently removed from the golf trolley 14 or golf bag 16, and is then (e.g. right away or after several minutes or hours may have passed) mechanicallysecured to the other of the golf trolley 14 and golf bag 16. Alternatively, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 may be secured to and removed from the same golf trolley 14 or golf bag 16 several times before it is removed therefrom and secured to a distinct golf equipment carrier.

[0093]

[0091] Referring to Figure 3, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 includes an on / off switch 36 and a navigation display 18. The navigation display 18 is configured to display information such as distance measurement (e.g. to the hole or green), hazards, or key course features. The dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 comprises a touch screen configured to receive user input. For example, a user may zoom in or out of a representation of a golf course displayed by the navigation display 18. In another example, a user may cycle through a number of settings or options of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 using the touch screen. Alternatively, one or more mechanical buttons or switches may be provided. The device 12 further comprises audio speakers 38 for transmitting audible prompts or responses to the user.

[0094]

[0092] Figure 4a illustrates a rear side of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12. The connector portion 34 of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 is arranged at the rear side of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12. The connector portion is arranged to mate with a corresponding connector portion, such as that shown in isolation in Figure 4b, on a golf equipment carrier.

[0095]

[0093] The connector portions 32, 34 each comprise several corresponding magnetic contacts 40 for mating the connector portion 34 of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 with the connector portion 32 of the golf equipment carrier 14, 16. The magnetic contacts 40 are strong enough to keep the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 firmly secured to the golf equipment carrier 14, 16 during typical use, whilst also being straightforwardly detachable by a user without the need for a separate tool. For example, the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 may be detachable from the golf equipment carrier 14, 16 by pulling the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 away from the golf equipment carrier 12 against the force of the magnetic contacts 40.

[0094] The connector portions 32, 34 each comprise a power contact 42, 44 so that the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 is powerable by the golf equipment carrier 14, 16 via the connector portions 32, 34 thereof.

[0096]

[0095] The connector portions 32, 34 each comprise a data contact 46, 48 so that data may be transmitted and / or received by the dedicated electronic golf navigation device 12 and / or the golf equipment carrier 14, 16.

Claims

Claims1. A golf equipment system comprising a dedicated electronic golf navigation device including a navigation display, and two or more golf equipment carriers;a first golf equipment carrier comprising a golf trolley including means for providing power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device;one or more further golf equipment carriers each comprising a golf trolley distinct from the first golf equipment carrier or a golf bag;each golf equipment carrier comprising a connector portion configured to mate with a corresponding connector portion of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device such that the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is removably mechanically secured to the golf equipment carrier;wherein the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is configured to be interchangeably secured to the two or more golf equipment carriers.

2. The golf equipment system of claim 1 , wherein the connector portions of the two or more golf equipment carriers are substantially identical to one another.

3. A golf equipment system comprising a dedicated electronic golf navigation device including a navigation display, and two or more golf equipment carriers;a first golf equipment carrier comprising a golf trolley;one or more further golf equipment carriers each comprising a golf trolley distinct from the first golf equipment carrier or a golf bag;each of the two or more golf equipment carriers comprising a connector portion configured to mate with a corresponding connector portion of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device such that the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is removably mechanically secured to the golf equipment carrier;wherein the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is configured to be interchangeably secured to the two or more golf equipment carriers;and wherein the connector portions of the two or more golf equipment carriers are substantially identical to one another.

4. The golf equipment system of claim 3, wherein one or more of the golf equipment carriers comprise means for providing power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device.

5. The golf equipment system of any preceding claim, wherein the connector portion of each of the two or more golf equipment carriers is an integrated connector portion.

6. The golf equipment system of any preceding claim, wherein a said golf equipment carrier comprises an electrically driven golf trolley.

7. The golf equipment system of any preceding claim, wherein a said golf equipment carrier comprises a non-electrically driven golf trolley; optionally, wherein the non-electrically driven golf trolley comprises means for providing power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device.

8. The golf equipment system of any preceding claim, wherein a said golf equipment carrier comprises a golf bag and the golf bag includes means for providing power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device.

9. The golf equipment system of any preceding claim, wherein each of the golf equipment carriers comprises means for providing power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device.

10. The golf equipment system of any preceding claim, wherein the dedicated electronic golf navigation device includes a battery; optionally, wherein the battery of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is housed in a removable battery housing.

11. The golf equipment system of any preceding claim, wherein the connector portion of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device and the connector portion of at least one, optionally each, of the golf equipment carriers comprise corresponding power contacts and / or non-power contacts; optionally wherein the non-power contacts include corresponding data contacts.

12. The golf equipment system of any preceding claim, wherein the connector portions of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device and the connector portion of at least one, optionally each, of the golf equipment carriers comprise corresponding magnetic contacts.

13. A dedicated electronic golf navigation device for the golf equipment system of any preceding claim.

14. A golf equipment carrier for the golf equipment system of any of claims 1 to 12;the golf equipment carrier comprising a golf trolley or a golf bag; optionally, wherein the golf trolley is an electrically driven golf trolley or wherein the golf trolley is a non-electrically drive golf trolley.

15. A golf bag comprising a body and a dedicated electronic golf navigation device including a navigation display; the golf bag body comprising a first connector portion configured to mate with a corresponding connector portion of the dedicated electronic golf navigation device such that the dedicated electronic golf navigation device is removably mechanically secured to the golf bag body.

16. The golf bag of claim 15, further comprising means for providing power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device; optionally, wherein the golf bag body comprises means for providing power to the dedicated electronic golf navigation device.

17. A method comprising:a) providing the golf equipment system of any of claims 1 to 12;b) mechanically securing the dedicated electronic golf navigation device to the first or a further golf equipment carrier;c) removing the dedicated electronic golf navigation device from the first or further golf equipment carrier;d) mechanically securing the dedicated electronic golf navigation device to another of the first or a further golf equipment carrier; and optionally, e) repeating steps c. and d.

18. A kit comprising a dedicated electronic golf navigation device according to the system of any of claims 1 to 12, or of claim 13 and two or more golf equipment carriers according to the system of any of claims 1 to 12, or of any of claims 14 to 16; and instructions to perform the method of claim 17.

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