Putter Alignment Aid Using Conical Bore Rings
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing golf club putters rely on two-dimensional alignment aids, which do not optimize alignment during putting, leading to unpredictable ball distance and roll when hitting the ball off-center.
Innovation Solution
A golf club head with a conical bore and multiple alignment rings that appear concentric when viewed from above, providing a three-dimensional alignment aid to ensure proper head and club alignment with the golf ball, using contrasting colors and protruding rings for enhanced visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two-dimensional alignment aids are used on the putter topline, then the alignment aid is simple to manufacture and visually visible, but the alignment accuracy and three-dimensional visualization are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional alignment aids on the topline to a three-dimensional conical bore structure with multiple alignment rings at different depths. This dimensional change provides superior alignment visualization by creating a depth perspective that more accurately represents the intended putting path, directly resolving the contradiction between alignment accuracy and structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment rings are nested within the conical bore at different depths, with each ring positioned at a specific distance from the top surface. This nesting arrangement creates a three-dimensional effect that enhances alignment accuracy while maintaining a compact overall structure, effectively balancing the contradiction between precision and complexity.
2Measurement precision
If a conical bore with multiple alignment rings is implemented, then alignment accuracy and three-dimensional visualization are improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment system is segmented into multiple discrete rings positioned at different depths within the conical bore. Each ring can be manufactured and positioned independently, allowing for modular fabrication that simplifies the overall manufacturing process while maintaining the three-dimensional alignment benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The conical bore provides a tapered guide structure that naturally positions the alignment rings at progressively deeper levels. This geometric parameter change (from cylindrical to conical) simplifies the positioning process during manufacturing, as the tapering walls automatically provide alignment references for placing each ring at the correct depth.
3Illumination intensity
If alignment rings protrude into the conical bore, then visibility and alignment confirmation are enhanced, but the device complexity and potential interference with ball strike increase
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment rings protrude locally into the conical bore rather than extending across the entire putter face. This localized protrusion provides enhanced visual visibility and alignment confirmation at the critical center point, while maintaining a simple overall structure that does not interfere with the ball strike area.
Data Source
AI summary
A golf club head comprising a three dimensional alignment feature is disclosed herein. In particular, the golf club head, which preferably is a putter, comprises a conical bore having a plurality of concentric rings. The concentric bore extends into a top surface of the head, and when a golfer has properly aligned his or her head relative to a golf ball and the club head, each of the plurality of concentric rings is fully visible to the golfer, with no part of any ring obscured by any other part of the golf club head.