Abstract
An adjustable length putter has a putter head having a contact face adapted to contact a golf ball, a grip portion having a graspable surface adapted to be grasped by a golfer, and a shaft portion connecting the grip portion to the putter head. The shaft portion has a length adjustment mechanism with an outer shaft having a hollow interior, an inner shaft slidable within the hollow interior of the outer shaft, and a clamping mechanism moveable between an unlocked position in which the inner shaft is able to slide within the outer shaft and a locked position in which the inner shaft is prevented from sliding within the outer shaft. The clamping mechanism can be a constrictor clamp, the constrictor clamp having a passageway that receives the outer shaft, wherein the constrictor clamp comprises a clamp actuator that moves the clamping mechanism from the unlocked position to the locked position by changing a cross-sectional dimension of the passageway. The adjustable length putter is moveable from an extended configuration to a retracted configuration by sliding the inner shaft within the outer shaft when the clamping mechanism is in the unlocked position. In one version, a pivot pin of the clamp actuator is located in the front of the shaft portion to assist the golfer in aligning the putter during use.
Claims
1-18. (canceled)
19. A method of using an adjustable length putter, the method comprising: providing an adjustable length putter comprising a putter head having a contact face adapted to contact a golf ball; a grip portion having a graspable surface adapted to be grasped by a golfer; and a shaft portion connecting the grip portion to the putter head, wherein the shaft portion has a length adjustment mechanism comprising an outer shaft having a hollow interior, an inner shaft slidable within the hollow interior of the outer shaft, and a clamping mechanism moveable between an unlocked position in which the inner shaft is able to slide within the outer shaft and a locked position in which the inner shaft is prevented from sliding within the outer shaft; moving the clamping mechanism from the locked position to the unlocked position by pivoting a pivot arm about a pivot axis to deform a clamp body to change the cross-sectional dimension of a passageway of the clamping mechanism; changing the length of the adjustable length putter; and moving the clamping mechanism from the unlocked position to the locked position by pivoting the pivot arm in the opposite direction about the pivot axis.
20. A method according to claim 19 wherein the method further comprises: when the clamping mechanism is in the locked position, using the adjustable length putter to putt a golf ball and using the pivot axis as an alignment guide while putting the golf ball.
21. A method according to claim 19 wherein the step of changing the length of the adjustable length putter is performed after a user has grown to a new height.
22. A method of using an adjustable length putter, the method comprising: providing an adjustable length putter comprising a putter head having a contact face adapted to contact a golf ball; a grip portion having a graspable surface adapted to be grasped by a golfer; and a shaft portion connecting the grip portion to the putter head, wherein the shaft portion has a length adjustment mechanism comprising an outer shaft having a hollow interior, an inner shaft slidable within the hollow interior of the outer shaft, and a clamping mechanism moveable between an unlocked position in which the inner shaft is able to slide within the outer shaft and a locked position in which the inner shaft is prevented from sliding within the outer shaft; moving the clamping mechanism from the locked position to the unlocked position by pivoting a pivot arm about a pivot pin; changing the length of the adjustable length putter; moving the clamping mechanism from the unlocked position to the locked position by pivoting the pivot arm in the opposite direction about the pivot axis; and using the adjustable length putter to putt a golf ball by: positioning the putter head next to a golf ball; gripping the grip portion; angling the shaft portion so that the pivot pin is aligned to a desired position relative to the putter head, and putting the golf ball.
23. A method according to claim 22 wherein the step of angling the shaft portion so that the pivot pin is aligned to a desired position relative to the putter head comprises aligning the pivot pin with the putter head.
24. A method according to claim 22 wherein the step of angling the shaft portion so that the pivot pin is aligned to a desired position relative to the putter head comprises aligning the pivot pin so that it is in front of the putter head.
25. A method according to claim 22 comprising providing a second clamping mechanism, the second clamping mechanism comprising a second clamping mechanism pivot pin.
26. A method according to claim 25 wherein the step of angling the shaft portion so that the pivot pin is aligned to a desired position relative to the putter head comprises aligning the pivot pin of the clamping mechanism with the second clamping mechanism pivot pin.
27. A method of using an adjustable length putter, the method comprising: providing an adjustable length putter comprising a putter head having a contact face adapted to contact a golf ball; a grip portion having a graspable surface adapted to be grasped by a golfer; and a shaft portion connecting the grip portion to the putter head, wherein the shaft portion has a length adjustment mechanism comprising an outer shaft having a hollow interior and a window extending from an outer surface of the outer shaft to the hollow interior, an inner shaft slidable within the hollow interior of the outer shaft, and a clamping mechanism attached to the outer shaft at the window, the clamping mechanism being moveable between an unlocked position in which the inner shaft is able to slide within the outer shaft and a locked position in which the inner shaft is prevented from sliding within the outer shaft; moving the clamping mechanism from the locked position to the unlocked position by pivoting a pivot arm about a pivot axis to change the cross-sectional dimension of a passageway of the clamping mechanism and press against the inner shaft through the window; changing the length of the adjustable length putter; and moving the clamping mechanism from the unlocked position to the locked position by pivoting the pivot arm in the opposite direction about the pivot axis.
28. A method according to claim 27 wherein the clamping mechanism is attached to the outer shaft at the window by an attachment system that maintains its position on the outer shaft.
29. A method according to claim 27 wherein the clamping mechanism is attached to the outer shaft at the window by an attachment system that maintains its position on the outer shaft in both the locked position and the unlocked position.
Description
DRAWINGS
[0045] These features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings which illustrate exemplary features of the invention. However, it is to be understood that each of the features can be used in the invention in general, not merely in the context of the particular drawings, and the invention includes any combination of these features, where:
[0046] FIG. 1A is a schematic perspective view from the side of an adjustable length putter according to the invention in an extended position;
[0047] FIG. 1B is a schematic perspective view from the side of the adjustable length putter of FIG. 1A in a retracted position;
[0048] FIG. 2A is a schematic perspective view from the side of another version of an adjustable length putter according to the invention in an extended position;
[0049] FIG. 2B is a schematic perspective view from the side of the adjustable length putter of FIG. 2A in a retracted position;
[0050] FIG. 3A is a schematic perspective view from above of three versions of adjustable length putters according to the invention in a retracted position;
[0051] FIG. 3B is a schematic perspective view from above of the three adjustable length putters of FIG. 3A in the process of being moved to an extended position;
[0052] FIG. 4A is a schematic perspective view of another version of an adjustable length putter according to the invention with a clamping mechanism in an unactuated or released position;
[0053] FIG. 4B is a schematic perspective view of the adjustable length putter of FIG. 4A with the clamping mechanism in an actuated position;
[0054] FIG. 5A is a schematic perspective view from above of the adjustable length putter of FIG. 4A in an upright and aligned position;
[0055] FIG. 5B is a schematic perspective view from above of the adjustable length putter of FIG. 4A in an upright and unaligned position;
[0056] FIG. 6A is a schematic perspective view of another version of an adjustable length putter according to the invention with a clamping mechanism in an unactuated or released position;
[0057] FIG. 6B is a schematic perspective view of the adjustable length putter of FIG. 6A with the clamping mechanism in an actuated position;
[0058] FIG. 7A is a schematic perspective view of another version of an adjustable length putter according to the invention with a clamping mechanism in an unactuated or released position;
[0059] FIG. 7B is a schematic perspective view of the adjustable length putter of FIG. 7A with the clamping mechanism in an actuated position;
[0060] FIG. 8A is a schematic perspective view of a portion of another version of an adjustable length putter according to the invention;
[0061] FIG. 8B is a schematic end view of components of the adjustable length putter of FIG. 8A;
[0062] FIG. 8C is a schematic perspective view of components of the adjustable length putter of FIG. 8A;
[0063] FIG. 9A is a schematic perspective partially exploded view of a portion of another version of an adjustable length putter according to the invention;
[0064] FIG. 9B is a schematic end view of components of the adjustable length putter of FIG. 9A;
[0065] FIG. 10A is a schematic perspective view from above of the adjustable length putter of FIG. 9A in an upright and aligned position;
[0066] FIG. 10B is a schematic perspective view from above of the adjustable length putter of FIG. 9A in an upright and unaligned position;
DESCRIPTION
[0067] The present invention relates to an adjustable length putter. In particular, the invention relates to a golf club with a putter head and a shaft portion with a length adjustment mechanism. Although the adjustable length putter is illustrated and described in the context of being useful for golf putters, the present invention can be useful in other instances. Accordingly, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the examples and embodiments described herein.
[0068] FIG. 1 shows an adjustable length putter 100 according to one version of the invention. The adjustable length putter 100 has a body 105 that includes a putter head portion 110, a shaft portion 115, and a grip portion 120. The putter head portion 110 includes a putter head body 125 with a contact face 130 that is adapted to make contact with a golf ball to cause the golf ball to roll. The putter head portion 110 also includes a shaft connection member 135 that is rigidly connected to or a part of the putter head body 125. The shaft portion 115 extends upwardly from the shaft connection member 135 of the putter head portion 110. The shaft portion 115 includes a longitudinally extending shaft body 140 that is tubular in shape with an at least partially round or circular cross-section. Typically, the shaft body 140 will have a slight tapered profile and will gradually increase in its outer cross-sectional dimension as it extends away from the putter head portion 110. The grip portion 120 includes a graspable surface 145 on or connected to the shaft portion 115. Typically, the graspable surface 145 is on a rubber or polymer grip 150 that is attached to or applied to the outer surface of the shaft body 140. The grip 150 may be positioned at an end of the shaft body 140 opposite the putter head attachment or at any position along the shaft body 140. The grip 150 can be sufficiently long to accommodate both hands of a golfer or can be divided into two grips so that a golfer can grasp the adjustable length putter 100 with his or her hands separated from one another.
[0069] As can be seen in FIG. 1A, the shaft portion 115 of the adjustable length putter 100 includes a length adjustment mechanism 155. In the version shown, the length adjustment mechanism 155 is provided by the shaft body 140 comprising an outer shaft 160 and an inner shaft 165. The outer shaft 160 has a hollow interior 170 and an opening 175 into the hollow interior 170 at the lower end of the outer shaft 160. In the version shown, the outer shaft 160 is positioned above the inner shaft 165 which is below the outer shaft 160 and closer to the putter head portion 110. The inner shaft 165 is slidably and telescopically received within a hollow interior 170 of the outer shaft 160 through the opening 175. The inner shafter 165 thus has an outer dimension that is the same as or slightly smaller than an inner dimension of the outer shaft 160. A clamping mechanism 180 is provided on the shaft portion 115 in proximity to the opening 175 of the outer shaft 160. The clamping mechanism 180 is moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the clamping mechanism 180 applies clamping pressure to the shaft portion 115 to lock the position of the inner shaft within the outer shaft 160 so that the inner shaft 165 is not moveable relative to the outer shaft 160. In the unlocked position, the clamping mechanism 180 removes the clamping pressure so that the inner shaft 165 can slide within the outer shaft 160.
[0070] In FIG. 1A, the adjustable length putter 100 is shown in an extended configuration 185 with the clamping mechanism 180 in a locked position 190. In the configuration shown, the adjustable length putter 100 is ready to be used as a putter. Since the clamping mechanism 180 is in the locked position 190, the inner shaft 165 is prevented from longitudinal or telescopic movement relative to the outer shaft 160. This provides a stable shaft portion 115 that allows the adjustable length putter 110 to operate and feel much like if not the same as a non-adjustable length putter. The extended configuration 185 can be a fully extended position where the inner shaft 165 and the outer shaft 160 are separated to their fullest extent or can be at any position shorter than fully retracted position. In FIG. 1B, the adjustable length putter 100 is shown in its retracted configuration 195 with the clamping mechanism 180 in a locked position 190. The adjustable length putter 100 is moved from the extended configuration 185 of FIG. 1A to the retracted configuration 195 of FIG. 1B by unlocking the clamping mechanism 180 so that the inner shaft 165 can slide relative to the outer shaft 160. The inner shaft 165 is slid farther into the hollow interior 170 of the outer shaft 160 and then the clamping mechanism 180 is again moved to the locked position 190 so that the adjustable length putter is maintained in the retracted configuration 195 of FIG. 1B.
[0071] The length of the adjustable length putter 100 is not limited to the positions shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B. The length adjustment mechanism 155 allows the adjustable length putter 100 to be positioned at any intermediate position between the positions shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B. Accordingly, the terms extended configuration 185 and retracted configuration 195 are relative terms and are not intended to represent the maximum extent of the configurations. For example, in use as a putter, the adjustable length putter 100 may be used at various different lengths depending on the golfer's desire. As discussed above, many golfers have different length preferences for the putter they are using, depending on their height and/or style. Therefore, the adjustable length putter 100 may be one length in its extended configuration 185 for one golfer and may be different length in its extended configuration 185 for another golfer. Common putter lengths for conventional adult golfers are, for example, 32 inches, 32.5 inches, 33 inches, 33.5 inches, 34 inches, 34.5 inches, 35 inches, 35.5 inches, and 36 inches. Even shorter putter lengths are sometimes used by youth golfers, shorter golfers, golfers with exceptionally long arms, and/or golfers with unorthodox putting styles. Even longer putter lengths are sometimes used by very tall golfers and/or golfers that use a style of putting that needs a long putter. For example, putters used for an arm-locking style of putting typically are 40 inches or 42 inches, and putters used for broom, broomstick, or sweeping style putting are typically 46 inches or 47 inches.
[0072] One advantage of the adjustable length putter 100 of FIGS. 1A and 1B is that the adjustable length putter 100 can be moved to its retracted configuration 195 as shown in FIG. 1B for more convenient shipping or storage. This can allow the adjustable length putter 100 to be shipped for a reduced cost when compared to a conventional putter. In addition, a golfer can easily transport the adjustable length putter 100 in a suitcase or backpack. In this regard, the retractability is particularly useful for putters that are used in an exceptionally long position, such as the arm lock putters and/or the broomstick putters, both of which can be difficult to travel with and transport.
[0073] Another advantage of the adjustable length putter 100 of FIGS. 1A and 1B is the ability to adjust the length of the putter in its use position. This allows the same putter to be used by different golfers that each have a different desired putter length. It also allows the same putter to be used by a golfer that is interested in experimenting with different putter lengths or otherwise changing his or her putter length without having to buy or otherwise have access to one or more different length putters. The adjustable length putter 100 is also particularly useful for a golfer that is not fully grown. As the golfer grows, they can adjust their putter length without having to buy a new putter at each stage of development. Also, the adjustable length putter 100 has the additional advantage of being adjustable between conventional lengths. For example, if a golfer desires a putter that is 33.75 inches, the golfer can have difficulty finding that length of a conventional shaft, but with the continuous adjustability of the length adjustment mechanism 155, that or any other intermediate length can be accommodated.
[0074] Another version of an adjustable length putter 100 of the invention is shown in FIG. 2A and 2B. In this version, the adjustable length putter 100 has an increased range of available lengths. The length adjustment mechanism 155 of the adjustable length putter 100 of FIGS. 2A and 2B has an intermediate shaft 205 positionable between the outer shaft 160 and the inner shaft 165 along the length of the shaft portion 115. The intermediate shaft 205 has a cross-sectional sized between the cross-sectional size of the outer shaft 160 and the inner shaft 165. More specifically, the intermediate shaft 205 has an outer cross-sectional dimension that is the same as or slightly smaller than inner cross-sectional dimension of the outer shaft 160 so that intermediate shaft 205 can slide within the hollow interior 170 of the outer shaft 160 in similar manner an the inner shaft 165 does in the version of FIGS. 1A and 1B. The intermediate shaft 205 also has a hollow interior 210 with an opening 215 thereinto. The intermediate shaft 205 inner dimension is the same as or slightly larger than the outer dimension of the inner shaft 165 so that the inner shaft 165 can be inserted into the intermediate shaft opening 215 and can slide within the intermediate shaft hollow interior 210 in similar manner as the inner shaft 165 slides within the outer shaft 160 in the version of FIGS. 1A and 1B. The clamping mechanism 180 comprises a first clamping mechanism 220 and a second clamping mechanism 225. The first clamping mechanism 220 is adapted to lock the relative longitudinal or telescopic movement of the intermediate shaft 205 relative to the outer shaft 160, and the second clamping mechanism is adapted to lock the relative longitudinal or telescopic movement of the inner shaft 165 relative to the intermediate shaft 205.
[0075] FIG. 2A shows the adjustable length putter 100 in an extended configuration 185 ready for in its locked position 190, and FIG. 2B shows the adjustable length putter 100 in a retracted configuration 195 ready for storage or shipping. As can be seen by comparing FIG. 2A to FIG. 1A, the intermediate shaft 205 allows for a greater range of lengths for the adjustable length putter 100. The use of the intermediate shaft 205 can provide for improved and/or simplified tapering of the shaft body 140. Typically putter shafts include a small taper, and most putter head shaft connection member 135 and grips 150 account for this taper. However, the taper can be a challenge or large expense to produce. With the adjustable length putter 100 of FIGS. 2A and 2B, the taper can be provided by the cylindrical shafts of increasing cross-sectional dimension. For example, in one particular version, the outer shaft 165 can have a largest outer diameter or equivalent dimension of about 16.5 mm, the intermediate shaft 205 of about 13.5 mm, and the inner shaft of about 10.5 mm. Alternatively, the outer shaft 160, the inner shaft 165, and/or the intermediate shaft 205 can be tapered. In this situation, the use of the intermediate shaft 205 can also offer improved stability. The use of an intermediate shaft 205 allows the cross-sectional dimensions of the outer shaft 160 vis--vis the intermediate shaft 205 and the intermediate shaft 205 vis--vis the inner shaft 165 than outer shaft 160 vis--vis the inner shaft 165 when there is no intermediate shaft 205. The use of the intermediate shaft 205 would thus lessen the difference in cross-sectional dimensions of the respective parts.
[0076] FIGS. 3A and 3B show the version of the adjustable length putter 100 of FIGS. 2A and 2B with different styles or shapes of putter head bodies 125. FIG. 3A shows the adjustable length putters 100 in their retracted configuration 195 and in a locked position 190. FIG. 3B shows the same putters in an unlocked position 300 which allows the outer shaft 160, the intermediate shaft 205, and the inner shaft 165 to slide relative to one another. In the unlocked position 300, one or more of the clamping mechanisms 180 can be unlocked, unactuated, or released. In the specific version of FIG. 3B, the adjustable length putters 100 are in the process of being moved from their retracted configurations 195 to an extended configuration 185. Once in the desired extended configuration 185, the clamping mechanisms 180 will be moved to their locked positions. FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C show a symmetric blade style putter head 305 that has two contact faces 130 allowing the putter to be used either right handed or left handed, a non-symmetric, off-set blade-style putter head 310 that is adapted and specially balanced for right-handed use, and a rubber or polymer blade-style putter head 315 that is commonly used for miniature golf. These are merely examples of the styles of putter heads that are useful with the adjustable length putter 100 of the invention, and there are hundreds of other styles.
[0077] As can be seen from FIGS. 3A and 3B, the adjustable length putter 100 offers an additional advantage of allowing for easy putter head interchangeability. With a conventional putter, the putter shaft is soldered or otherwise adhesively secured to the putter head at the shaft connection member 135. To replace a putter head or shaft, the bond must be broken, the area must be cleaned, and then a new solder or adhesive must be applied for the new shaft or putter head. However, with the adjustable length putter 100 of the invention, the shaft connection member 135 of a putter head body 125 can be bonded to only an inner shaft 165. The inner shaft 165 and its attached putter head body 125 can then be inserted into an outer shaft 160 or into an intermediate shaft 205. Accordingly, a method of changing a putter head on a putter can involve providing a shaft body 140 containing a first putter head, releasing a clamping mechanism 180 to release the first putter head from the shaft body 140, attached a second putter head onto the shaft body 140, and actuating the clamping mechanism 180 to secure the second putter head onto the shaft. A golfer, store, golf course, or miniature golf course could then offer multiple different types of putter heads that could be separately attachable to a single shaft portion 115. The feature of replacement putter heads can be provided along with the adjustable length feature or can be a separate and stand alone feature. Alternatively, the feature of a replaceable putter head can be used itself to adjust the length of a putter by having putter heads available on different length inner shafts.
[0078] A version of an adjustable length putter 100 is shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. In this version, the clamping mechanism 180 comprises a constrictor clamp 400. The constrictor clamp 400 includes a passageway 405 that receives a portion of the shaft body 140 of the shaft portion 115 of the adjustable length putter 100. The cross-sectional size and/or shape of the passageway 405 is controlled or changed by a clamp actuator 410. In the specific version shown the clamping mechanism 180 is a pivotally actuated constrictor clamp 415, and the clamp actuator 410 is a pivot arm 420 that pivots about a pivot axis represented by pivot pin 425. FIG. 4A shows the constrictor clamp 400 in an unlocked position 300. In the unlocked position 300 the pivot arm 420 of the clamp actuator 410 is pivoted up to an open position and this causes the cross-sectional dimension of the passageway to be in an unconstricted position. In the unconstricted position, the passageway 405 is of a sufficient size that significant pressure is not applied against the shaft body 140 within the passageway 405. When the clamp actuator 410 is actuated by pivoting the pivot arm 420 about the pivot pin 425 down as shown in FIG. 4B, the constrictor clamp 400 is in its locked position 190. In the actuated or locked position 190 the passageway 405 becomes constricted and applies pressure to the outside of the portion of the shaft body 140 that is within the passageway 405. The constriction can occur by squeezing the entire passageway to make its cross-sectional dimension smaller across the entire passageway 405, or the constriction can only squeeze a portion of the passageway 405 so that the squeeze portion contacts the shaft portion 140 and applies pressure thereon.
[0079] To use the constrictor clamp 400 of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the constrictor clamp 400 is positioned in proximity to the opening 175 of the outer shaft 160 and/or in proximity to the opening 215 of the intermediate shaft 205. In the case of the outer shaft 160, either the intermediate shaft 205 is inserted into the outer shaft opening 175, when using a version similar to FIGS. 2A and 2B, or the inner shaft 165 is inserted into the outer shaft opening 175, when using a version similar to FIGS. 1A and 1B. With the pivot arm 420 unactuated or released the shafts are allowed to slide to a desired position. When in the desired position, the pivot arm 420 is pivoted about the pivot axis of the pivot pin 425 down to constrict the passageway 405. The constriction applies pressure to the exterior shaft, such as outer shaft 160, and/or to the interior shaft, such as inner shaft 165, to lock the shafts in their longitudinal position. For example, the constrictor can press directly on the exterior shaft and pinch it against the interior shaft, or the constrictor can press directly onto the interior shaft, as will be described hereinbelow.
[0080] The pivotally actuated constrictor clamp 415 offers several advantages over prior art mechanisms, such as threaded rotational clamps. For example, pivotally actuated constrictor clamp is easy and convenient to actuate and unactuate. A simple movement of the pivot arm 420 is all that is needed to actuation, and the level arm of the pivot arm 420 amplifies the force to make the pivoting easy to achieve without requiring undue strength. Second, the applied pressure from the constriction is consistent. There is no adjustment of the applied pressure based on the actuation force that is applied. The pivotally actuated constrictor clamp 415 is bi-positional so that it is either fully actuated, i.e. in its locked position, or fully unactuated, i.e. in its unlocked position, and it is easily recognizable to a user which position it is in. In addition and unlike with threaded tighteners, there is no risk of overtightening. This removes the risk of thread damage or thread sticking. Also, by having the pivot axis of the pivot pin 425 extend longitudinally and/or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft body 140, the actuation of the clamping mechanism 180 occurs in a manner that is not involved with the stability of the putter, thereby not decreasing the life of the putter. When multiple clamping mechanisms 180 are provided, either different sized constrictor clamps 400 and/or passageways 405 can be provided to match the geometric requirements of the shaft sizes or a universal constrictor claim 400 can be provided that has a sufficiently wide range of constrictions to accommodate the different geometries.
[0081] Another advantage of the use of the pivotally actuated constrictor clamp 415 as the one or more clamping mechanisms 180 is illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B. By positioning the pivot pin 425 of the constrictor clamp 400 in the front of the shaft body 140, an alignment system 500 can be provided that can help a golfer with his or her putting stroke. As can be seen in FIG. 5A, when properly positioned in use as a putter, the pivot pin 425 can serve as an alignment guide 505. By positioning the pivot pin 425 directly over the putter head body 125, a golfer can be assured that the putter is properly tilted. In contrast, as shown in FIG. 5B, if the putter is improperly tilted, it will be obvious to the golfer that the alignment guide 505 or pivot pin 425 is not directly above the putter head 125 and that correction needs to be made. In FIGS. 5A and 5B, there are two clamping mechanisms 180 provided which even further helps the alignment, but a single clamping mechanism 180 can also be used. Some golfers like to use a putter position that is not directly upright, as shown in FIG. 5A. For example, some golfers like to have a certain amount of forward lean or forward press with their putter where their hands are positioned ahead of the putter head 125. In this case, the alignment guide 505 will be positioned forward of the putter head 125 when viewed by the golfer. The alignment guide 505 can still be beneficial in this situation in that the golfer can use the alignment guide to maintain a consistent amount of forward tilt. While the pivot pin 425 is useful as being the alignment guide 505 in the version shown, in other versions, a different part of the clamping mechanism 180, such as one or more marked indicia, can be used as the alignment guide 505.
[0082] The adjustable length putter 100 of the invention can be designed to be adjustable to any desired range of lengths. In one particular three-shaft version, the adjustable length putter 100 can range from a retracted position length of about 14 inches to an extended position length of about 38 inches, or from about 17 inches to about 35 inches. In another version, the extended position length can be up to about 53 inches to accommodate long putters with a retracted length of about 24 inches for the three-shaft version. It is generally desirable to have at least about one inch of overlap of the shafts in the fully extended positions. Accordingly, for the three-shaft version, the retracted length can be from about 35% to about 80% of the fully extended length, or from about 35% to about 50% of the fully extended length, or from about 35% to about 40% of the fully extended length. For a two-shaft version, the retracted length can be from about 52% to about 80% of the fully extended length. A four-shaft version with two intermediate shaft, or even more, can be used to make the retracted length even smaller when compared to the fully extended length.
[0083] A particular version of a pivotally actuated constrictor clamp 415 is shown in FIG. 6A in its unactuated position and in FIG. 6B in its actuated position. In this version, the clamping mechanism 180 is a cam lock clamp 600 whereby the constriction is created by camming action of the pivot arm 420. More specifically, the cam lock clamp 600 includes a clamp body 605 that contains the passageway 405. The pivot arm 420 includes one or more cam members 610 that rotate with the pivot arm 420 as the pivot arm 420 pivots about the pivot pin 425. In the unactuated position of FIG. 6A, the one or more cam members 610 is rotated out of engagement with the body 605. When the pivot arm 420 is moved to its actuated position of FIG. 6B, the one or more cam members 610 rotates and presses against the body 605 thereby causing the body to constrict and press against the shaft body 140. In the specific version shown, the cam lock clamp 600 also includes a stop mechanism 615. The stop mechanism 615 includes a stop member 620 on the pivot arm 420 that abuts a stop member abutment 625 on the clamp body 610 to prevent over rotation of the pivot arm 420 when moved to the unactuated position.
[0084] Another version of the adjustable length putter 100 is shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B. This version includes a length adjustment mechanism that includes a rotation stabilizing system 700. The rotation stabilizing system 700 comprises a channel 705 that runs longitudinally along at least a portion of the shaft body 140. In the version shown, the longitudinal channel 705 runs along the front of at least a portion of outer shaft 160 and at least a portion of the inner shaft 165 and, if present, at least a portion of the intermediate shaft 205. The longitudinal channels of each of the shafts nest within one another in a keying relationship to help prevent relative rotation between the shafts. In one version, such as the one shown, the clamping mechanism 180 includes a protrusion 710 that extends inwardly from the clamp body 605 and is sized and shaped to be received within the longitudinal channel 705. This helps the constriction of the constrictor clamp 400 apply pressure across the whole shaft and helps to further prevent rotation between the shafts when the clamp mechanism is actuated. In addition, the protrusion 710 helps to keep the clamp mechanism 180 centered on the front of the shaft body 140 which helps maintain the alignment system 500 in proper position. In the version shown, the channel 705 is a channel that extends inwardly into and/or along the outer surface of the shafts, but it can take any other suitable form that is capable of preventing rotation and/or receiving the protrusion 710.
[0085] FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C show a version of the adjustable length putter 100 similar to the version of FIGS. 7A and 7B, but with a second longitudinal channel 805 being provided. In the version shown, the second longitudinal channel is opposite the first longitudinal channel 705, but it can be positioned at a different location. The additional longitudinal channel provides an additional resistance to rotation between the shafts. FIG. 8B shows the clamp mechanism with a single protrusion 710. FIG. 8C shows a version with a second protrusion 810 that fits within the second longitudinal channel 805.
[0086] Another version of the adjustable length putter 100 is shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B. In this version, a window 900 is provided on an exterior shaft, such as on the intermediate shaft 205 as shown in FIG. 9A in proximity to the opening 215 to the hollow interior 210. The clamping mechanism 180 in the form of a cam lock clamp 600 with protrusion 710 is positionable over the window 900 so that the protrusion can extend through the window 900 when the clamp mechanism is actuated and directly contact the interior shaft, such as the inner shaft 165 in the version of FIG. 9A. In one version, the clamping mechanism 180 snaps into position above the window 900 using the window 900 and an interference fit. With or without the window 900, the clamping mechanism 180 can optionally be maintained in its position on the exterior shaft by any suitable attachment system, such as adhesive or friction fit.
[0087] The adjustable length putter 100 offers all of the advantages discussed above in addition to others. For example, the clamp features offer multiple benefits to the golfer, such as:
[0088] The clamp feature is quick and easy to lock/unlock and can be done with one hand. When unlocked it can extend to any length between the minimum and maximum length of the shaft. In one particular version, it can extend from about 14 inches to about 37 inches. When the clamps are open the putter can be adjusted to any length including lengths between standard putter lengths of 33, 34, 35. The shaft can also be adjusted to be much shorter or longer than standard putter lengths such as 30 and 38. The clamp feature is extremely secure. It will not allow the length of the shaft to change over time. Clamps are often used on consumer products when reliability is important, such as with camera tripods and bicycle wheel locks. The invention solves both the problem of perfect, reliable putter shaft length as well as perfect putter shaft alignment while putting. The adjustable nature of the putter shaft eliminates the need to stock inventory of putters that have different shaft lengths. The fact that the shaft can be adjusted will allow the putter to grow while golfers are growing and reduce the need to purchase a new putter every time they grow a few inches. This putter solves the need for putter shaft alignment without the use of expensive equipment or specialty knowledge. Simply align the clamps with the putter head and the putter is in perfect alignment with the ball. This is done without attaching additional training aids (such as a laser) to the putter which throws off the balance of the putting stroke. Also, the length adjustment mechanism comprising a clamping mechanism that does not depend on the strength of a user and/or that is not susceptible to the problems of being overtightened.
[0089] Additional modifications and alterations of the invention can be made to suit a particular purpose. For example, the invention can be used for golf clubs other than putters. The invention can be applied to sporting goods, toys, or other products other than golf equipment.
[0090] Although the present invention has been described in considerable detail with regard to certain preferred versions thereof, other versions are possible, and alterations, permutations and equivalents of the version shown will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon a reading of the specification and study of the drawings. For example, the cooperating components may be reversed or provided in additional or fewer number, and all directional limitations, such as up and down and the like, can be switched, reversed, or changed as long as doing so is not prohibited by the language herein with regard to a particular version of the invention. Also, the various features of the versions herein can be combined in various ways to provide additional versions of the present invention. Furthermore, certain terminology has been used for the purposes of descriptive clarity, and not to limit the present invention. Throughout this specification and any claims appended hereto, unless the context makes it clear otherwise, the term comprise and its variations such as comprises and comprising should be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, limitation, or step but not the exclusion of any other elements, limitations, or steps. Throughout this specification and any claims appended hereto, unless the context makes it clear otherwise, the term consisting of and consisting essentially of and their variations such as consists should be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, limitation, or step and not the exclusion of any other elements, limitations, or steps or any other non-essential elements, limitations, or steps, respectively. Throughout the specification, any discussed on a combination of elements, limitations, or steps should be understood to include a disclosure of additional elements, limitations, or steps and the disclosure of the exclusion of additional elements, limitations, or steps. All numerical values, unless otherwise made clear in the disclosure or prosecution, include either the exact value or approximations in the vicinity of the stated numerical values, such as for example about +/ten percent or as would be recognized by a person or ordinary skill in the art in the disclosed context. The same is true for the use of the terms such as about, substantially, and the like. Also, for any numerical ranges given, unless otherwise made clear in the disclosure, during prosecution, or by being explicitly set forth in a claim, the ranges include either the exact range or approximations in the vicinity of the values at one or both of the ends of the range. When multiple ranges are provided, the disclosed ranges are intended to include any combinations of ends of the ranges with one another and including zero and infinity as possible ends of the ranges. Therefore, any appended or later filed claims should not be limited to the description of the preferred versions contained herein and should include all such alterations, permutations, and equivalents as fall within the true spirit and scope of the present invention.
