Title:
DEVICE FOR RETAINING A GOLFER'S ACCOUTERMENTS
United States Patent 3819095
Abstract:
An improved device for securely retaining a golfer's accouterments in a readily accessible situs during a round of play. The device is characterized by a plate having a spring-biased clip affixed to one surface for attaching the plate to the belt or waistband or clothing worn by a golfer, and a plurality of helical springs of a substantially cylindrical configuration mounted at the opposite surface of the plate for securely supporting ball markers, tees, a divot repair tool, and the like.
US Patent References:
Pen and pencil holder
Haslup - August 1950 - 2518989
Hammer holster
Vanish - November 1952 - 2618419
Attachment for sun visor or the like
Fernly - March 1958 - 2825467
Golfer's case
Kowalczyk - November 1961 - 3010628
GOLFING ACCESSORIES HOLDER
Walbeck - July 1972 - 3674189
Pen and pencil holder
Haslup - August 1950 - 2518989
Hammer holster
Vanish - November 1952 - 2618419
Attachment for sun visor or the like
Fernly - March 1958 - 2825467
Golfer's case
Kowalczyk - November 1961 - 3010628
GOLFING ACCESSORIES HOLDER
Walbeck - July 1972 - 3674189
Application Number:
05/202112
Publication Date:
06/25/1974
Filing Date:
11/26/1971
View Patent Images:
Export Citation:
Primary Class:
Other Classes:
224/918, 224/249
International Classes:
A63B57/00; A45C11/00
Field of Search:
224/5C,5D,5A,5R,5H,5V,5G,29B,26R,26B 211/6R,89 248/DIG.3 280/DIG.6 273/32A,32D 206/46GT
Primary Examiner:
Forlenza, Gerald M.
Assistant Examiner:
Forsberg, Jerold M.
Claims:
Having described my invention, what I claim as new and desire to secure by Letters Patent is
1. The combination of a golfer's accouterments including a plurality of tees, a bifurcated divot repair tool, and a ball marker having a disk-shaped body and a spike extended axially therefrom and a device for securely retaining them in a readily accessible situs during play comprising:
2. The device of claim 1 wherein said plate is fabricated from a synthetic resin, and each of said springs terminates in an outwardly directed hook extended through said plate and embedded therein adjacent to said one surface.
3. The device of claim 1 wherein said plate includes means defining an opening adjacent each of said multiplicity of springs, and each of said springs terminate, at each of its opposite ends, in an outwardly directed U-shaped hook, having a pair of legs mutually spaced a distance one-and-a-half times the diameter of said opening, and the depth of said hook being one-half the thickness of said plate, whereby each of the springs is secured to said plate with the opposite ends thereof being innocuously seated in the plate.
4. The device of claim 1 wherein said clip is of a generally U-shaped configuration with one leg thereof substantially traversing said one surface, and secured to said plate by means including elongated bodies having distal ends protruded outwardly from said one surface terminating in protuberances interposed between said one surface and said leg.
1. The combination of a golfer's accouterments including a plurality of tees, a bifurcated divot repair tool, and a ball marker having a disk-shaped body and a spike extended axially therefrom and a device for securely retaining them in a readily accessible situs during play comprising:
2. The device of claim 1 wherein said plate is fabricated from a synthetic resin, and each of said springs terminates in an outwardly directed hook extended through said plate and embedded therein adjacent to said one surface.
3. The device of claim 1 wherein said plate includes means defining an opening adjacent each of said multiplicity of springs, and each of said springs terminate, at each of its opposite ends, in an outwardly directed U-shaped hook, having a pair of legs mutually spaced a distance one-and-a-half times the diameter of said opening, and the depth of said hook being one-half the thickness of said plate, whereby each of the springs is secured to said plate with the opposite ends thereof being innocuously seated in the plate.
4. The device of claim 1 wherein said clip is of a generally U-shaped configuration with one leg thereof substantially traversing said one surface, and secured to said plate by means including elongated bodies having distal ends protruded outwardly from said one surface terminating in protuberances interposed between said one surface and said leg.
Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to a device for securely retaining a golfer's accouterments including a bifurcated divot repair tool, a multiplicity of elongated tees, and a plurality of ball markers each being of a substantially disk-shaped configuration and having a spike axially extended therefrom.
Devices heretofore employed as retainers for divot repair tools, tees, ball markers, and the like, are so configured as to require their use in a substantially horizontal disposition. Consequently, use of such devices has been limited to those instances wherein mounting in a horizontal plane is facilitated. For example, it is not uncommon to mount such a device on the handle of a hand-drawn cart or on the steering column of a motorized cart. Thus, the devices heretofore employed suffer a common deficiency in that they cannot be employed for retaining a golfer's accouterments in a readily accessible situs during play since the golfer must approach his cart each time a need for an often used item arises.
Consequently, devices of the type heretofore employed simply have not been generally accepted and, as a consequence, male golfers tend to carry tees, divot repair tools, ball markers and the like in their trouser pockets, while female golfers often attempt to attach such devices to their shoes and the like.
Of course, when accouterments such as those aforementioned are carried in the trouser pockets, wear and soiling is accelerated. Furthermore, tees, ball markers and divot repair tools frequently become entangled in other items of types normally carried in the trouser pockets and as a consequence valuable time is often expended in extracting and segretating selected items to be employed at any given instant.
Therefore, it should readily be apparent that there exists a need for an improved device which can be employed for securely retaining a golfer's accouterments such as tees, divot repair tools, ball markers, and the like, at a readily accessible situs during a round of play.
OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is therefore an object of the instant invention to provide an improved device which overcomes the aforementioned disadvantages.
It is another object to provide an improved device for securely retaining a golfer's accouterments in a readily accessible situs during a round of play.
It is another object to provide an improved device which is attachable to a belt or waistband of walking shorts, skirts, trousers and the like for supporting a divot repair tool, tees, and ball markers at a readily accessible and innocuous location during a round of play.
It is another object to provide an improved device including a plate adapted to be attached to a golfer's clothing and retainers uniquely attached to the plate for supporting the golfer's accouterments at his waist in a readily accessible and innocuous situs.
These and other objects and advantages are achieved through the use of a plate of a substantially planar configuration having a spring-biased clip fixed to one surface for attaching the plate to a waistband or belt of a golfer's clothing and retaining means affixed to the opposite surface including a plurality of helical springs, each being of a cylindrical configuration, secured to the plate at their opposite ends for receiving and securing to the plate a golfer's accouterments, including a divot repair tool, a multiplicity of tees, and a plurality of ball markers.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the instant invention including a plate, having retainer springs affixed thereto and slotted openings formed therein for supporting a golfer's accouterments, and a bolt for aiding in securing the device to a golfer's clothing.
FIG. 2 is an end view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, depicting a spring-biased clip for attaching the device to the golfer's clothing.
FIG. 3 is an end view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 illustrating another form of the clip which is employed in attaching the device of FIG. 1 to an article of clothing.
FIG. 4 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 illustrating one manner in which the springs are affixed to the plate.
FIG. 5 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view depicting still another manner in which the springs shown in FIG. 1 are affixed to the plate.
FIG. 6 is an enlarged, fragmentary view illustrating the slotted openings, shown in FIG, 1, in which the ball markers are releasably retained within the plate.
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 7--7 of FIG. 6.
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 8--8 of FIG. 6.
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 9--9 of FIG. 1 illustrating one manner in which the bolt can be secured relative to the plate.
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 10--10 of FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is a front view of another embodiment of the instant invention, wherein a divot repair tool, tees, and ball markers are supported by a plurality of helical springs, each being of a cylindrical configuration.
FIG. 12 is an enlarged, fragmentary view of the springs employed in supporting the ball markers shown in FIG. 11.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views, there is shown in FIG. 1 one embodiment, generally designated 10, of the instant invention.
The embodiment 10 includes a plate 12 having substantially parallel, opposed planar surfaces 14 and 16. The plate is fabricated from any suitable material, however, a synthetic resin such as acrylic plastic functions quite satisfactorily for this purpose. While the plate 12 preferably is fabricated from transparent stock material, stock material of an opaque nature can be employed equally as well.
The plate 12 serves as a support for accouterments of the type normally provided for and employed by golfers during a single round of golf. As shown, the accouterments include a bifurcated divot repair tool 18, a plurality of tees 20 and a pair of ball markers 22. As is well understood, the divot repair tool 18 includes an enlarged body 18a and a pair of legs 18b and is employed in agitating the surface of a putting green to remove impressions or so-called "ball-marks" formed when struck by a descending golf ball. The tees 20 are, of course, employed in positioning a ball prior to being struck with a driver. The ball markers 22 each includes a disk-shaped body 22a and a coaxially related spike 22b which are employed to mark the position of a ball on a putting green in the event the ball must be removed during play. It should therefore readily be apparent that each of the items 18, 20, and 22 repeatedly is employed by a golfer during a single round of golf, and, as a practical matter, should readily be available at all times in order to expedite play.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the plate 12 is provided with a spring-biased clip 24 of a generally inverted U-shaped configuration affixed thereto. The particular manner in which the clip 24 is affixed to the plate is deemed to be a matter of convenience only, however, so-called "soft rivets"25 serve quite satisfactorily for this purpose. As a practical matter, the clip 24 is fabricated from stock material having a selected modulus of elasticity and is deformed beyond the elastic limits in order to impart the desired configuration thereto.
Where desired, as best shown in FIG. 3, the clip 24 can be provided with a depending leg 24a of a length which substantially traverses the width of the plate 12 so that the effectiveness of the clip is enhanced. The distal ends of the rivets 25 preferably extend beyond the adjacent surface of the plate, as best illustrated in FIG. 3, and form protuberances interposed between the adjacent surfaces of the leg 24a and the adjacent surface of the plate 12. Thus, it can be appreciated that the distal ends of the rivets enhance the propensity of the clip 24 to grasp articles of clothing.
As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, a bolt 26 mounted for reciprocation through the plate 12, in juxtaposition with the clip 24, can be provided for further enhancing the effectiveness of the clip. As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the bolt 26 is mounted by means of an externally screw-threaded casing 28, threadedly received by the plate 12, and includes an axially extended opening 30 within which the bolt 26 is reciprocated for purposes of positioning the bolt in juxtaposition with the clip 24.
As a practical matter, the shaft of the bolt 26 is machined to include an annular protuberance 32 while an opening 34 is extended transversely through the casing 28 for receiving a spring-biased clip at a position immediately adjacent a protrusion 32. The protrusion 32 and the clip 36 are so related that as the bolt 26 is reciprocated, the legs of the clip 36 are parted against the applied bias of the clip for accommodating a passage of the protuberance 32 therebetween so that the bolt can be repositioned relative to the surface 16 of the plate 12 and consequently relative to the clip 24. The clip 36 thus releasably engages the protuberance 32 for thereby supporting the bolt 26 against undesired reciprocation.
While not shown, it is to be understood that the bolt 26, if so desired, can include a helical thread extended along the external surface thereof while the opening 30 is provided with a helical thread mated with the thread extending along the external surface of the bolt 26 so that the bolt can be reciprocated simply by applying torque thereto. When the bolt is so equipped, the protuberance 32 and clip 36 are eliminated.
As best shown in FIG. 1, the tool 18 is retained in place on the plate 12 by a helical spring 38 of a cylindrical configuration having its opposite ends affixed to the plate. The legs 18b of the tool 18 are inserted between the surfaces of the spring 38 and the plate 12 whereby the tool resiliently is supported thereby. As a practical matter, the spring 38 is of a length such that passage of the body 18a of the tool 18 between the spring 38 and the surface 14 of the plate 12 is precluded.
If so desired, in order to assist in the removal of the tool 18 from the plate 12, an opening, not designated, of a diameter such as to accommodate an insertion of a finger, is provided in the body 18a of the tool 18 so that the tool readily can be extracted from between the spring 38 and the plate 12 in a sliding fashion.
Similarly, a spring 40 of a configuration similar to the spring 38 is extended along the portion of the surface 14 which serves simultaneously to receive therebetween the plurality of tees 20. Like the spring 38, the spring 40 is a helical spring of a cylindrical configuration and is of a length such that a passage of the tees between the spring and the surface 14 is impeded and arrested by the inherent resiliency of the spring. It will be appreciated, of course, that the number of tees simultaneously supported by the spring 40 can be varied, and while three tees are shown, the spring 40 functions quite satisfactorily in supporting a single tee since the modulus of elasticity of the spring is such as to urge the spring into continuous engagement with any tee disposed between the spring and the surface 12.
The ball markers 22, as depicted in FIG. 1, are received within a pair of slotted openings 42 extending diagonally through the lower portion of the plate 12. Immediately adjacent each of the slotted openings 42, along a lowermost edge of the plate 12, there is provided a relief 44 through which access to the opening 42 is facilitated. Consequently, the body 22a of each of the ball markers 22 is extended downwardly through the slotted opening 42 into the relief 44. Since each of the ball markers 22 also includes an axially extended spike 22b the surface 14 adjacent each of the slotted openings 42 is provided with a recess 46 which serves to receive therein a spike extended from the disk portion of a ball marker. Accordingly, downward displacement of the ball markers 22 through the slotted openings 42 is arrested as the spikes engage the recesses 46. Therefore, it is to be understood that each of the ball markers 22 is supported against lateral displacement by the opposed surfaces of the slotted opening 42, as well as being supported against vertical displacement through the engagement established between the spike and the surfaces of the recess 46.
As best illustrated in FIG. 1, each of the slotted openings 42 further includes an arcuate lip 48 configured to conform to the shape of the body 22a of the ball markers 22 and engage a peripheral surface thereof for precluding an upward extraction of the ball markers seated therein. In order to insure that an engagement is established between the lip 48 and the peripheral surface of the ball marker 22, each of the slotted openings 42 is partially closed by transversely extended, resilient fingers 50 fixed to the surface 16 of the plate 12 and extended downwardly into engagement with the faces of the bodies 22a of ball marker 22.
Any suitable means including soft-rivets 52 and the like can be employed in mounting the finger 50 on the surface 16 of the plate 12. In practice, the fingers 50 are extended downwardly to points beneath the recess 46. Hence, a pivoting force continuously is resiliently applied to the face of each of the ball markers 22 for continuously urging the ball marker in pivotal movement about an axis lying on a line extending between the inner face of the spike 22b of the ball marker 22 and the recess 46 so that the peripheral surface of the disk-shaped portion of the ball markers is in continuous engagement with the arcuate lip 48.
In order to extract a ball marker 22 from a slotted opening 42, it is necessary that the ball marker 22 be pivoted within the slotted opening against the bias of the finger 50 so that the peripheral surface of the body 22a thereof is displaced from the lip 48. This is achieved simply by applying a downwardly directed force to the distal end of the spike, for pivoting the marker, while simultaneously digitating that portion of the ball marker 22 extended into the relief 44. Thus, the ball marker is rotated out of engagement with the arcuate lip 48 and is lifted from the slotted opening 42. To insert the ball markers within the slotted opening, it is only necessary to urge the ball marker downwardly into engagement with the finger 50 with a force sufficient to permit the spike 22b to seat within the recess 46.
As a practical matter, the springs 38 and 40 must be secured to the plate 12 in a manner which is unobtrusive and protects the esthetic qualities of the device, while assuring an adequate union between the springs and the plate 12 is effected.
As shown in FIG. 4, the spring 38 terminates at its opposite ends in an outwardly directed hook 54 extended through an opening 56. The hooks 54 are, in effect, embedded into place through the use of a glob of adhesive 58 applied to the surface 16, about the opening 56, and in a manner such that the distal end of the hook 54 is embedded in the glob. As a practical matter, the hook 54 is laterally extended along the surface 16 of the plate 12 as it is embedded within the glob of adhesive 58.
As shown in FIG. 5, the springs 38 and 40 also can be affixed to the plate 12 through the use of an outwardly directed hook 54 extended from each of the opposite ends of the spring and confined within a bore or bore-like opening 60. The opening 60 preferably is drilled along an axis extended normal to the plane of the plate 12. It is important to note that the diameter of the opening 60 is equal to one-half the thickness of the plate 12, and that the opening of the hook, i.e. the distance between its opposite legs, is one-and-a-half times greater than the diameter of the opening 60. Furthermore, it is imperative that the hook be outwardly directed so that force exerted on the spring in a direction for axially extracting the hooks, serves to cause the hook to expand within the opening. By employing the opening 60 for mounting the spring on the plates 12 the esthetic qualities of the embodiments are not impaired.
Turning now to FIG. 11 there is illustrated a second embodiment, generally designated 70. This embodiment is quite similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 and includes structural components quite similar in function and appearance to those hereinbefore described. Those components therefore are similarly numbered.
As a practical matter, the embodiment designated 70, preferably includes clip 24 having a depending leg 24a substantially traversing the width of the plate 12 while the bolt 26 is deleted. Furthermore, upon the surface 14 of the plate 12, there is mounted springs 38 and 40. While the particular manner in which the springs are mounted can be varied. as hereinbefore described, it is preferred that the openings 60 be employed for receiving therein the hooks 54 for thereby facilitating fabrication and enhancing appearance of the embodiment.
Each of the ball markers 22 is retained against the surface 14 of the plate 12 by a pair of helical springs 72 and 74 of a cylindrical configuration. The springs 72 and 74 are quite similar to the springs 38 and 40 and are coupled to the plate 12 in a similar manner. It is to be understood, of course, that the springs 72 and 74 arranged in substantial parallelism are spaced apart at a distance less than the radius of the ball markers so that the peripheral portion of each ball marker 22 deposited therebetween is engaged by the spring 72, while the axially extended spike 22b of the ball marker 22 is engaged by the spring 74 so that the ball marker 22 is securely retained in position against the surface 14 of the plate 12. In practice, the spring 72 is provided with a diameter slightly less than that of the spring 74 and has a spring modulus such that a lesser force is applied to the peripheral portions of the ball marker. Hence, the ball markers can readily be extracted simply by manipulating the spring 72, for thus displacing it away from the surface 14 of the plate 12, and thereafter digitating a portion of the ball marker 22 extended into the recess 44 for lifting the ball marker and thereby extracting the ball marker 22 from between the spring 74 and the surface of the plate 12.
OPERATION
It is believed that in view of the foregoing description, the operation of the device will be readily understood and it will be briefly reviewed at this point.
Both of the embodiments, generally designated 10 and 70, of the instant invention are quite similar in design, appearance, and function, therefore, a description of the operation and use of a single one of the embodiments is believed to be adequate for fully conveying a complete understanding of the instant invention. Therefore, a description of the operation and use of a single embodiment is provided, except where existing differences between the embodiments are encountered.
Referring now to FIG. 1, a divot repair tool 18 is inserted behind the spring 38, the tees 20 are inserted between the spring 40 and the adjacent surface of the plate 12, and the ball markers 22 are inserted into the slotted openings 42. Where the embodiment, designated 70, is being employed, the ball markers 22 are inserted behind the springs 72 and 74. The device then is attached to a golfer's waistband or his belt simply by passing one leg of the clip 24 or the leg 24a, as the case may be, over the waistband or belt so that the plate 12 is suspended therefrom. Where the bolt 26 is employed, it is urged inwardly for causing the protrusion to pass between the legs of the clip 36 so that the bolt is disposed in juxtaposition with the waistband or belt of clothing worn by the golfer, which also is engaged by the clip 24. Thus the plate 12 is secured in operative position at the waist of a golfer.
It should, at this point, be fully apparent that use of any of the items retained and supported on the plate 12 can be extracted from the device, employed and thereafter readily returned to its original position, without encountering undue loss of concentration or time.
In view of the foregoing, it should readily be apparent that the device of the instant invention provides a practical solution to a perplexing problem of transporting a golfer's accouterments during a round of play.
Although the invention has been herein shown and described in what are conceived to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is recognized that departures may be made therefrom within the scope of the invention, which is not to be limited to the illustrative details disclosed.
The invention relates to a device for securely retaining a golfer's accouterments including a bifurcated divot repair tool, a multiplicity of elongated tees, and a plurality of ball markers each being of a substantially disk-shaped configuration and having a spike axially extended therefrom.
Devices heretofore employed as retainers for divot repair tools, tees, ball markers, and the like, are so configured as to require their use in a substantially horizontal disposition. Consequently, use of such devices has been limited to those instances wherein mounting in a horizontal plane is facilitated. For example, it is not uncommon to mount such a device on the handle of a hand-drawn cart or on the steering column of a motorized cart. Thus, the devices heretofore employed suffer a common deficiency in that they cannot be employed for retaining a golfer's accouterments in a readily accessible situs during play since the golfer must approach his cart each time a need for an often used item arises.
Consequently, devices of the type heretofore employed simply have not been generally accepted and, as a consequence, male golfers tend to carry tees, divot repair tools, ball markers and the like in their trouser pockets, while female golfers often attempt to attach such devices to their shoes and the like.
Of course, when accouterments such as those aforementioned are carried in the trouser pockets, wear and soiling is accelerated. Furthermore, tees, ball markers and divot repair tools frequently become entangled in other items of types normally carried in the trouser pockets and as a consequence valuable time is often expended in extracting and segretating selected items to be employed at any given instant.
Therefore, it should readily be apparent that there exists a need for an improved device which can be employed for securely retaining a golfer's accouterments such as tees, divot repair tools, ball markers, and the like, at a readily accessible situs during a round of play.
OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is therefore an object of the instant invention to provide an improved device which overcomes the aforementioned disadvantages.
It is another object to provide an improved device for securely retaining a golfer's accouterments in a readily accessible situs during a round of play.
It is another object to provide an improved device which is attachable to a belt or waistband of walking shorts, skirts, trousers and the like for supporting a divot repair tool, tees, and ball markers at a readily accessible and innocuous location during a round of play.
It is another object to provide an improved device including a plate adapted to be attached to a golfer's clothing and retainers uniquely attached to the plate for supporting the golfer's accouterments at his waist in a readily accessible and innocuous situs.
These and other objects and advantages are achieved through the use of a plate of a substantially planar configuration having a spring-biased clip fixed to one surface for attaching the plate to a waistband or belt of a golfer's clothing and retaining means affixed to the opposite surface including a plurality of helical springs, each being of a cylindrical configuration, secured to the plate at their opposite ends for receiving and securing to the plate a golfer's accouterments, including a divot repair tool, a multiplicity of tees, and a plurality of ball markers.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the instant invention including a plate, having retainer springs affixed thereto and slotted openings formed therein for supporting a golfer's accouterments, and a bolt for aiding in securing the device to a golfer's clothing.
FIG. 2 is an end view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, depicting a spring-biased clip for attaching the device to the golfer's clothing.
FIG. 3 is an end view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 illustrating another form of the clip which is employed in attaching the device of FIG. 1 to an article of clothing.
FIG. 4 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 illustrating one manner in which the springs are affixed to the plate.
FIG. 5 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view depicting still another manner in which the springs shown in FIG. 1 are affixed to the plate.
FIG. 6 is an enlarged, fragmentary view illustrating the slotted openings, shown in FIG, 1, in which the ball markers are releasably retained within the plate.
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 7--7 of FIG. 6.
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 8--8 of FIG. 6.
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 9--9 of FIG. 1 illustrating one manner in which the bolt can be secured relative to the plate.
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 10--10 of FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is a front view of another embodiment of the instant invention, wherein a divot repair tool, tees, and ball markers are supported by a plurality of helical springs, each being of a cylindrical configuration.
FIG. 12 is an enlarged, fragmentary view of the springs employed in supporting the ball markers shown in FIG. 11.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views, there is shown in FIG. 1 one embodiment, generally designated 10, of the instant invention.
The embodiment 10 includes a plate 12 having substantially parallel, opposed planar surfaces 14 and 16. The plate is fabricated from any suitable material, however, a synthetic resin such as acrylic plastic functions quite satisfactorily for this purpose. While the plate 12 preferably is fabricated from transparent stock material, stock material of an opaque nature can be employed equally as well.
The plate 12 serves as a support for accouterments of the type normally provided for and employed by golfers during a single round of golf. As shown, the accouterments include a bifurcated divot repair tool 18, a plurality of tees 20 and a pair of ball markers 22. As is well understood, the divot repair tool 18 includes an enlarged body 18a and a pair of legs 18b and is employed in agitating the surface of a putting green to remove impressions or so-called "ball-marks" formed when struck by a descending golf ball. The tees 20 are, of course, employed in positioning a ball prior to being struck with a driver. The ball markers 22 each includes a disk-shaped body 22a and a coaxially related spike 22b which are employed to mark the position of a ball on a putting green in the event the ball must be removed during play. It should therefore readily be apparent that each of the items 18, 20, and 22 repeatedly is employed by a golfer during a single round of golf, and, as a practical matter, should readily be available at all times in order to expedite play.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the plate 12 is provided with a spring-biased clip 24 of a generally inverted U-shaped configuration affixed thereto. The particular manner in which the clip 24 is affixed to the plate is deemed to be a matter of convenience only, however, so-called "soft rivets"25 serve quite satisfactorily for this purpose. As a practical matter, the clip 24 is fabricated from stock material having a selected modulus of elasticity and is deformed beyond the elastic limits in order to impart the desired configuration thereto.
Where desired, as best shown in FIG. 3, the clip 24 can be provided with a depending leg 24a of a length which substantially traverses the width of the plate 12 so that the effectiveness of the clip is enhanced. The distal ends of the rivets 25 preferably extend beyond the adjacent surface of the plate, as best illustrated in FIG. 3, and form protuberances interposed between the adjacent surfaces of the leg 24a and the adjacent surface of the plate 12. Thus, it can be appreciated that the distal ends of the rivets enhance the propensity of the clip 24 to grasp articles of clothing.
As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, a bolt 26 mounted for reciprocation through the plate 12, in juxtaposition with the clip 24, can be provided for further enhancing the effectiveness of the clip. As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the bolt 26 is mounted by means of an externally screw-threaded casing 28, threadedly received by the plate 12, and includes an axially extended opening 30 within which the bolt 26 is reciprocated for purposes of positioning the bolt in juxtaposition with the clip 24.
As a practical matter, the shaft of the bolt 26 is machined to include an annular protuberance 32 while an opening 34 is extended transversely through the casing 28 for receiving a spring-biased clip at a position immediately adjacent a protrusion 32. The protrusion 32 and the clip 36 are so related that as the bolt 26 is reciprocated, the legs of the clip 36 are parted against the applied bias of the clip for accommodating a passage of the protuberance 32 therebetween so that the bolt can be repositioned relative to the surface 16 of the plate 12 and consequently relative to the clip 24. The clip 36 thus releasably engages the protuberance 32 for thereby supporting the bolt 26 against undesired reciprocation.
While not shown, it is to be understood that the bolt 26, if so desired, can include a helical thread extended along the external surface thereof while the opening 30 is provided with a helical thread mated with the thread extending along the external surface of the bolt 26 so that the bolt can be reciprocated simply by applying torque thereto. When the bolt is so equipped, the protuberance 32 and clip 36 are eliminated.
As best shown in FIG. 1, the tool 18 is retained in place on the plate 12 by a helical spring 38 of a cylindrical configuration having its opposite ends affixed to the plate. The legs 18b of the tool 18 are inserted between the surfaces of the spring 38 and the plate 12 whereby the tool resiliently is supported thereby. As a practical matter, the spring 38 is of a length such that passage of the body 18a of the tool 18 between the spring 38 and the surface 14 of the plate 12 is precluded.
If so desired, in order to assist in the removal of the tool 18 from the plate 12, an opening, not designated, of a diameter such as to accommodate an insertion of a finger, is provided in the body 18a of the tool 18 so that the tool readily can be extracted from between the spring 38 and the plate 12 in a sliding fashion.
Similarly, a spring 40 of a configuration similar to the spring 38 is extended along the portion of the surface 14 which serves simultaneously to receive therebetween the plurality of tees 20. Like the spring 38, the spring 40 is a helical spring of a cylindrical configuration and is of a length such that a passage of the tees between the spring and the surface 14 is impeded and arrested by the inherent resiliency of the spring. It will be appreciated, of course, that the number of tees simultaneously supported by the spring 40 can be varied, and while three tees are shown, the spring 40 functions quite satisfactorily in supporting a single tee since the modulus of elasticity of the spring is such as to urge the spring into continuous engagement with any tee disposed between the spring and the surface 12.
The ball markers 22, as depicted in FIG. 1, are received within a pair of slotted openings 42 extending diagonally through the lower portion of the plate 12. Immediately adjacent each of the slotted openings 42, along a lowermost edge of the plate 12, there is provided a relief 44 through which access to the opening 42 is facilitated. Consequently, the body 22a of each of the ball markers 22 is extended downwardly through the slotted opening 42 into the relief 44. Since each of the ball markers 22 also includes an axially extended spike 22b the surface 14 adjacent each of the slotted openings 42 is provided with a recess 46 which serves to receive therein a spike extended from the disk portion of a ball marker. Accordingly, downward displacement of the ball markers 22 through the slotted openings 42 is arrested as the spikes engage the recesses 46. Therefore, it is to be understood that each of the ball markers 22 is supported against lateral displacement by the opposed surfaces of the slotted opening 42, as well as being supported against vertical displacement through the engagement established between the spike and the surfaces of the recess 46.
As best illustrated in FIG. 1, each of the slotted openings 42 further includes an arcuate lip 48 configured to conform to the shape of the body 22a of the ball markers 22 and engage a peripheral surface thereof for precluding an upward extraction of the ball markers seated therein. In order to insure that an engagement is established between the lip 48 and the peripheral surface of the ball marker 22, each of the slotted openings 42 is partially closed by transversely extended, resilient fingers 50 fixed to the surface 16 of the plate 12 and extended downwardly into engagement with the faces of the bodies 22a of ball marker 22.
Any suitable means including soft-rivets 52 and the like can be employed in mounting the finger 50 on the surface 16 of the plate 12. In practice, the fingers 50 are extended downwardly to points beneath the recess 46. Hence, a pivoting force continuously is resiliently applied to the face of each of the ball markers 22 for continuously urging the ball marker in pivotal movement about an axis lying on a line extending between the inner face of the spike 22b of the ball marker 22 and the recess 46 so that the peripheral surface of the disk-shaped portion of the ball markers is in continuous engagement with the arcuate lip 48.
In order to extract a ball marker 22 from a slotted opening 42, it is necessary that the ball marker 22 be pivoted within the slotted opening against the bias of the finger 50 so that the peripheral surface of the body 22a thereof is displaced from the lip 48. This is achieved simply by applying a downwardly directed force to the distal end of the spike, for pivoting the marker, while simultaneously digitating that portion of the ball marker 22 extended into the relief 44. Thus, the ball marker is rotated out of engagement with the arcuate lip 48 and is lifted from the slotted opening 42. To insert the ball markers within the slotted opening, it is only necessary to urge the ball marker downwardly into engagement with the finger 50 with a force sufficient to permit the spike 22b to seat within the recess 46.
As a practical matter, the springs 38 and 40 must be secured to the plate 12 in a manner which is unobtrusive and protects the esthetic qualities of the device, while assuring an adequate union between the springs and the plate 12 is effected.
As shown in FIG. 4, the spring 38 terminates at its opposite ends in an outwardly directed hook 54 extended through an opening 56. The hooks 54 are, in effect, embedded into place through the use of a glob of adhesive 58 applied to the surface 16, about the opening 56, and in a manner such that the distal end of the hook 54 is embedded in the glob. As a practical matter, the hook 54 is laterally extended along the surface 16 of the plate 12 as it is embedded within the glob of adhesive 58.
As shown in FIG. 5, the springs 38 and 40 also can be affixed to the plate 12 through the use of an outwardly directed hook 54 extended from each of the opposite ends of the spring and confined within a bore or bore-like opening 60. The opening 60 preferably is drilled along an axis extended normal to the plane of the plate 12. It is important to note that the diameter of the opening 60 is equal to one-half the thickness of the plate 12, and that the opening of the hook, i.e. the distance between its opposite legs, is one-and-a-half times greater than the diameter of the opening 60. Furthermore, it is imperative that the hook be outwardly directed so that force exerted on the spring in a direction for axially extracting the hooks, serves to cause the hook to expand within the opening. By employing the opening 60 for mounting the spring on the plates 12 the esthetic qualities of the embodiments are not impaired.
Turning now to FIG. 11 there is illustrated a second embodiment, generally designated 70. This embodiment is quite similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 and includes structural components quite similar in function and appearance to those hereinbefore described. Those components therefore are similarly numbered.
As a practical matter, the embodiment designated 70, preferably includes clip 24 having a depending leg 24a substantially traversing the width of the plate 12 while the bolt 26 is deleted. Furthermore, upon the surface 14 of the plate 12, there is mounted springs 38 and 40. While the particular manner in which the springs are mounted can be varied. as hereinbefore described, it is preferred that the openings 60 be employed for receiving therein the hooks 54 for thereby facilitating fabrication and enhancing appearance of the embodiment.
Each of the ball markers 22 is retained against the surface 14 of the plate 12 by a pair of helical springs 72 and 74 of a cylindrical configuration. The springs 72 and 74 are quite similar to the springs 38 and 40 and are coupled to the plate 12 in a similar manner. It is to be understood, of course, that the springs 72 and 74 arranged in substantial parallelism are spaced apart at a distance less than the radius of the ball markers so that the peripheral portion of each ball marker 22 deposited therebetween is engaged by the spring 72, while the axially extended spike 22b of the ball marker 22 is engaged by the spring 74 so that the ball marker 22 is securely retained in position against the surface 14 of the plate 12. In practice, the spring 72 is provided with a diameter slightly less than that of the spring 74 and has a spring modulus such that a lesser force is applied to the peripheral portions of the ball marker. Hence, the ball markers can readily be extracted simply by manipulating the spring 72, for thus displacing it away from the surface 14 of the plate 12, and thereafter digitating a portion of the ball marker 22 extended into the recess 44 for lifting the ball marker and thereby extracting the ball marker 22 from between the spring 74 and the surface of the plate 12.
OPERATION
It is believed that in view of the foregoing description, the operation of the device will be readily understood and it will be briefly reviewed at this point.
Both of the embodiments, generally designated 10 and 70, of the instant invention are quite similar in design, appearance, and function, therefore, a description of the operation and use of a single one of the embodiments is believed to be adequate for fully conveying a complete understanding of the instant invention. Therefore, a description of the operation and use of a single embodiment is provided, except where existing differences between the embodiments are encountered.
Referring now to FIG. 1, a divot repair tool 18 is inserted behind the spring 38, the tees 20 are inserted between the spring 40 and the adjacent surface of the plate 12, and the ball markers 22 are inserted into the slotted openings 42. Where the embodiment, designated 70, is being employed, the ball markers 22 are inserted behind the springs 72 and 74. The device then is attached to a golfer's waistband or his belt simply by passing one leg of the clip 24 or the leg 24a, as the case may be, over the waistband or belt so that the plate 12 is suspended therefrom. Where the bolt 26 is employed, it is urged inwardly for causing the protrusion to pass between the legs of the clip 36 so that the bolt is disposed in juxtaposition with the waistband or belt of clothing worn by the golfer, which also is engaged by the clip 24. Thus the plate 12 is secured in operative position at the waist of a golfer.
It should, at this point, be fully apparent that use of any of the items retained and supported on the plate 12 can be extracted from the device, employed and thereafter readily returned to its original position, without encountering undue loss of concentration or time.
In view of the foregoing, it should readily be apparent that the device of the instant invention provides a practical solution to a perplexing problem of transporting a golfer's accouterments during a round of play.
Although the invention has been herein shown and described in what are conceived to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is recognized that departures may be made therefrom within the scope of the invention, which is not to be limited to the illustrative details disclosed.