Hinged Golf Practice Device for Nonobstructive Distance Marking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional golf practice methods using physical objects like tees obstruct the putting surface, cause damage, and create distractions, while also requiring golfers to measure distances manually.
Innovation Solution
A golf practice device with a hinged base member and clamping ends, equipped with pivotable coupling arms and attachment features, allows for marking a spot on the putting surface without physical obstructions, using a sight or camera for precise alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a tee is placed in the putting surface to mark distance, then the golfer can practice putting at fixed distances, but the tee creates an obstruction and distraction during putting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the clamp device with adjustable arm) that transfers the distance marking function from a physical tee inserted in the green to a non-invasive clamping system. The clamp attaches to the edge of the green and positions a marker at the desired distance without requiring insertion into the putting surface, thus eliminating obstruction while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the traditional mechanical tee insertion system with a clamping mechanism that uses friction and leverage principles. The clamp applies force to the edge of the green to hold the marking arm in position, substituting the penetration-based mechanical system with a contact-based system that does not damage or obstruct the putting surface.
2Productivity
If a tee is used to mark practice distance, then repeated practice shots can be taken from the same spot, but the tee may cause damage to the putting surface
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp device serves as an intermediary that transfers the marking function away from the putting surface. By attaching to the edge of the green and extending an arm to the desired distance point, the system eliminates the need for repeated tee insertions and removals that cause damage, while maintaining the ability to take repeated practice shots from the same location.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the distance marking function from the putting surface itself and relocates it to the edge of the green. The clamp mechanism attaches to the perimeter and positions markers without contacting the putting surface, thereby completely eliminating the harmful effect of tee insertion while preserving practice efficiency.
3Loss of information
If multiple tees are left in the putting surface after practice, then distance markers remain for future reference, but they become obstacles for subsequent golfers
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp device is designed to be easily attached and detached by the user itself. The golfer can set up the distance markers before practice and quickly remove the entire device afterward, leaving no obstacles for subsequent golfers. The self-contained nature of the clamp system eliminates the need for individual tee removal while maintaining distance marker retention during the practice session.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts all marking elements from the putting surface and consolidates them into a single removable clamp assembly. When the golfer finishes practice, the entire device including all distance markers can be removed at once, eliminating multiple individual tees that would otherwise obstruct the green for subsequent users.
Data Source
AI summary
Golf practice devices are adapted to facilitate practicing without obstructing a putting surface or practice area. According to one example, a golf practice device can include a first base member with a first clamping end and a first handle end, and a second base member with a second clamping end and a second handle end. A portion of the first base member located between the first clamping end and the first handle end may be hingedly coupled to a portion of the second base member located between the second clamping end and the second handle. At least one coupling arm may be pivotably mounted to the first base member, and an attachment feature may be coupled to the first coupling arm. In some examples, a sight or a cell phone with an integrated camera may be coupled to the attachment feature. Other aspects, embodiments, and features are also included.