Putter Alignment Sphere and Ring via Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing golf putter alignment systems lack an effective and customizable solution for ensuring proper alignment during address, as they often rely on fixed features that do not accommodate individual golfer preferences or needs.
Innovation Solution
A putter head design featuring a removable alignment structure, including a vertically aligned alignment ring and sphere or cylinder, which provides a clear visual cue for alignment without direct contact with the body portion, allowing for customizable color contrast and adjustable positioning to enhance visibility and usability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed alignment feature is used in the putter, then the alignment structure is simple and stable, but the golfer cannot customize or change the alignment aid to suit individual preferences
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment system is divided into separate components: a support bar that is part of the putter body, and a removable alignment structure that can be detached and replaced. This segmentation allows the alignment aid to be customized while keeping the overall system relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment structure is designed to be removable and replaceable, transforming the static alignment system into a dynamic one that can be adjusted and customized by the golfer according to personal preference and putting style.
2Measurement precision
If the alignment structure directly contacts the body portion or support bar, then the structure is more stable, but the alignment feature cannot appear to be contained within the alignment ring when properly aligned
Solution Approach 1:
The support bar acts as an intermediary element that connects the body portion to the alignment ring without requiring the alignment structure to directly contact either component. This intermediary approach enables the alignment structure to appear contained within the ring while maintaining stability through the support bar's positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment structure is positioned in a vertical dimension above the support bar and body portion, allowing it to appear contained within the alignment ring when viewed from above, while being supported from below by the support bar structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the alignment ring is directly attached to the body portion, then the alignment system is simpler, but the golfer cannot change or customize the alignment feature
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment system is segmented into a permanent support bar attached to the body portion, and a removable alignment structure that can be detached and replaced. This allows customization while maintaining manufacturing simplicity for each component.
Solution Approach 2:
The support bar is pre-attached to the body portion during manufacturing, providing a stable base. The alignment structure is then separately attached by the user, allowing customization without complicating the manufacturing process.
Data Source
AI summary
A putter head comprising a novel alignment structure is disclosed herein. In particular, the putter comprises an alignment sphere attached to an upper surface of a lower flange and an alignment ring suspended over the lower flange and vertically aligned with the alignment sphere. When a golfer has oriented the putter properly in front of a golf ball at address, the alignment sphere will appear to the golfer to be encircled by the alignment ring.