Elevated Golf Ball Marker With Inlay Prevents Deflection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing golf ball markers do not effectively minimize interference with putts and chips, as they can deflect the ball or obstruct the line of sight for other golfers, and lack aesthetic and customizable options.
Innovation Solution
A golf ball marker with a metallic base and a non-metallic ornamental inlay, featuring a closed recess and a ground-penetrating post, which provides a smooth and reflective surface, and can include a magnet or gemstone inlay for secure placement and visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional ball marker is used, then the ball position can be marked, but the marker may deflect the putted ball or obstruct the line of sight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from flat, two-dimensional markers to three-dimensional markers with vertical posts extending upward. This dimensional change allows the marker to be seen from a distance without obstructing the putted ball's path, as the ball passes over the marker rather than being blocked by it.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the decorative and identification elements (inlays, engravings, logos) from the functional marking purpose. These ornamental features are placed on the vertical post rather than on a flat surface that would contact the ball, separating the marking function from the aesthetic function to eliminate interference.
2Strength
If a metallic base is used for the marker, then durability and reflectivity are improved, but interference with putts increases
Solution Approach 1:
By elevating the marker on a vertical post, the metallic base no longer lies flat in the ball's path. The ball passes over the elevated marker, eliminating deflection while the metallic base maintains its durability and reflective properties for visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The vertical post structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for the metallic base, elevates the marker above the ball path to prevent deflection, and offers a surface for decorative inlays and engravings that enhance visibility without interfering with play.
3Shape
If a smooth continuous surface is created, then aesthetic appeal is improved, but ball deflection risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The smooth continuous surface is created on the vertical post rather than on a flat surface at ground level. This vertical orientation removes the surface from the ball's path, allowing the ball to pass over without contact, while the smooth surface still provides aesthetic appeal and visibility.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution reduces the likelihood of ball deflection and obstruction while offering a visually appealing and customizable marker that adheres to golfing rules, ensuring accurate ball replacement and improved gameplay experience.
Implementation Method 1
comprises an elongated magnet located within the cavity
Data Source
AI summary
A golf ball marker includes a base and an ornamental inlay. The base defines a closed recess, and has a flat marginal surface surrounding the recess. The ornamental inlay is carried by the base, and held flush within the recess such that an outside surface of the inlay and the flat marginal surface of the base reside in substantially the same plane and form a substantially continuous smooth top surface of the ball marker.