Golf Shoe Alignment Markings for Consistent Ball Placement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Golfers face challenges in consistently and accurately aligning a golf ball relative to their golf shoes, particularly when switching between different golf clubs, which affects shot trajectory and consistency.

Innovation Solution

A golf ball alignment device and system that includes a base layer with alignment markings attached to the toe box section of golf shoes, allowing for consistent and accurate alignment of the golf ball based on the type of golf club being used.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a golfer manually aligns the golf ball with their foot without aids, then they can achieve basic alignment, but it takes a long time and is difficult to replicate consistently

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment accuracyVSAvoidtime for alignment
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces alignment markings as an intermediary visual aid between the golfer's foot and the golf ball. These markings serve as a mediator that translates the complex task of alignment into a simple visual reference system, allowing golfers to quickly and accurately position the ball by aligning it with the markings rather than directly measuring against their foot.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The alignment markings are pre-positioned on the golf shoe at specific locations corresponding to different ball positions (e.g., front foot alignment, back foot alignment for wedges). This preliminary preparation of reference points eliminates the need for repeated measurement and adjustment during play, enabling consistent and rapid alignment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If a golfer tries to replicate exact ball positioning for different clubs, then shot consistency can be improved, but the complexity of adjusting for different clubs increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshot consistencyVSAvoidalignment system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the alignment system into multiple discrete markings, each corresponding to a specific club type or ball position requirement. Instead of a single complex alignment mechanism, the system segments the alignment task into multiple simple visual references (e.g., different markings for drivers, irons, wedges), making it easier to select and apply the appropriate alignment for each situation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The alignment markings system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides reference points for different club types, accommodates different ball positions (front foot, back foot, center), and works with various shoe designs. This multi-functional approach maintains shot consistency across different clubs without requiring separate alignment systems for each scenario.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12233323B2Golf ball alignment device, system and method
Publication Date: 2025.02.25 LAMASH BRADLEY ANDRE
  • US12233323B2 patent drawing
  • US12233323B2 patent drawing
  • US12233323B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device, system and method for aligning a golf ball relative to a golf shoe is disclosed herein. The device includes a base layer and a set of alignment markings. In some embodiments, the base layer is removably adhered to a golf shoe. The system includes a pair of golf shoes each including a set of alignment markings thereon that are, in some embodiments, permanent to the golf shoes. The set of alignment markings help golfers with proper ball placement and enable the golfers to set up for the shot correctly, consistently and quickly. Particularly, the set of alignment markings assist golfers in consistently setting up the golf ball position for shots wherein the golf ball is required to be placed either on the front foot or the back foot.