Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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HEIGHT-ADJUSTABLE GOLF TEE SYSTEM
BACKGROUND
[0001] Currently, golf tees used at any practice facility do not allow for
ease or precision of
height adjustment, which is paramount to effective practice. For example,
current golf tees
for use at a driving range with artificial grass mats to strike the ball from
are available in a
variety of heights. However, these heights are fixed based on the golf tees
available. In other
words, each golf tee has a singular height. Therefore, multiple golf tees are
required to
achieve multiple heights. There are traditionally three sizes available¨low,
middle, and high
tee heights. To switch among the various tee heights, the golfer lifts the
mat, pulls out the
golf tee through a hole in the mat, inserts the golf tee having the desired
height through the
hole, then replaces the portion of the mat that was lifted or moved.
[0002] As another example, current golf tees for use at a driving range with
natural grass to
strike the ball from are typically the same tees used during a round of play.
While a single
tee could be used for multiple heights, each time the golfer is interested in
striking a ball for
practice they must bend down, insert a new tee, find the correct height, and
place the ball on
the tee.
[0003] On the golf course, different golfers have different ball height
preferences during a
drive and differences in ball height preferences may be nearly immeasurable.
Consequently,
each time a golfer inserts a tee into the ground, there is likely a variation
in the height at
which they are using
[0004] What is needed is a more consistent golf tee system.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate an example tee.
[0006] FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate an example anchor.
[0007] FIG. 3 illustrates an example anchor.
[0008] FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate an example anchor.
[0009] FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate an example assembled golf tee.
[0010] FIG. 6A-B illustrate an example anchor.
[0011] FIG. 7A-B illustrate an example anchor.
[0012] FIG. 8 illustrates an exploded view of an example anchor.
[0013] FIG. 9 illustrates a cut away view of an example anchor.
[0014] FIG. 10 illustrates an exploded component view of an example anchor.
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[0015] FIG. 11A-C illustrate an example of an anchor.
[0016] FIG. 12A-C illustrate an example of an installation tool.
[0017] FIG. 13A-C illustrate and example of an installation tool.
[0018] FIG. 14 illustrates an example tee.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] A golf tee system having a tee and an anchor is discussed. The tee is
height-
adjustable relative to the anchor. A first anchor includes a cap, a stem, and
a tip. The stem
can be threaded internally, externally, or a combination thereof A second
anchor includes a
stem and a base. The stem can be threaded internally. Both the first and
second anchors can
be composed of three-pieces (e.g., a detachable cap, a detachable stem, or a
detachable
portion thereof) to provide access to an inner cavity of the respective stems.
[0020] For ease and clarity of discussion, ball height, tee height, or head
height are relative to
the ground on which the golfer is standing and from which the drive is
occurring. However,
ball height, tee height, or head height are not intended to be so limited
based on relative
distance to the upper most surface of an anchor or one or more absolute
lengths, heights, or
distances.
[0021] FIG. 1A shows a tee 100. FIG. 1B shows a cross-sectional view of the
tee 100 taken
along the line I-I. The tee 100 includes a shaft 104, a head 102 at a first
end of the shaft 104,
and a tip 106 at a second end of the shaft 104. The head 102 can be flat or
concave. The tee
length TL can be any appropriate size. For example, the tee length Ti. can
range from 25.4-
127 mm.
[0022] In one example, the tee length TL can be less than or equal to the sum
of one-half a
diameter of a golf ball plus the height of the largest legal driver head
(i.e., tee length = (0.5 x
(golf ball diameter)) + (height of largest legal driver head)). Currently, an
"American" golf
ball, as determined by USGA equipment rules, can be no less than 42.67
millimeters in
diameter. Alternatively, a "British" golf ball can be no less than 41.1 mm in
diameter. Also,
based on the current USGA equipment rules, the maximum distance from the sole
to the
crown of the club head is not greater than 71.12 mm.
100231 The shaft 104 of the tee 100 can be threaded. The threads can be any
appropriate size,
including, without limitation, ranging from 1/64 inch (0.396875 mm) to 1 inch
(25.4 mm),
such as in increments of 1/64 inches (or, 0.396875 mm). The shaft 104 can
include any
appropriate number of threads, whether in total or in threads per inch,
including, without
limitation, 1,2, 3,4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 20, 24,
32, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80,
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90, 100, up to 2, up to 3, up to 4, up to 5, up to 6, up to 7, up to 8, up to
9, up to 10, up to 11,
up to 12, up to 13, up to 14, up to 15, up to 16, up to 18, up to 20, up to
24, up to 32, up to 40,
up to 50, up to 60, up to 70, up to 80, up to 90, up to 100, at least 2, at
least 3, at least 4, at
least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least
11, at least 12, at least 13,
at least 14, at least 15, at least 16, at least 18, at least 20, at least 24,
at least 32, at least 40, at
least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, at least 100, or
the like. In one
example, the shaft 104 is threaded at one or more segments of the shaft
length. In another
example, the shaft 104 is threaded along the entirety of the shaft length.
[0024] FIG. 2A shows an anchor 200, such as for use in a natural surface. FIG.
2B shows a
cross-sectional view of the anchor 200 taken along the line II-II. The anchor
200 includes a
stem 204, a cap 202 at a first end of the stem 204, and a tip 206 at a second
end of the stem
204. The anchor 200 also includes a cavity 220 (formed, for example, by one or
more inner
walls within the anchor 200) sized and shape to accept and engage the shaft
104, the tip 106,
or both. The cavity 220 can be fully threaded, partially threaded, or not
threaded at all. In
one example, the cavity 220 extends from the side of the cap 202 distal to the
stem 204 into
the tip 206. In another example, the cavity 220 extends from the side of the
cap 202 distal to
the stem 204 into the stem 204 without entering the tip 206.
[0025] The cap 202 includes a slot 210 extending from a portion of the cavity
220 on top
portion of the cap 202 or a portion of the cavity 220 proximal to the cap 202.
The slot 210
can receive a device or object (e.g., screwdriver, coin, finger, fingernail, a
spike wrench, a
sport wrench, or the like) for securing the anchor 200 into the ground, such
as by screwing,
pushing, or twisting. The anchor 200 can include multiple slots 210.
[0026] An upper surface of the cap 202 can sit flush with the ground, or a
bottom surface of
the cap 202 can rest on top of the ground. In one example, a portion of an
inner wall the cap
202 includes a curved or tapered surface to provide access to a deeper portion
of cavity 220,
thereby permitting a broken or sheared tee to be removed.
[0027] Alternatively, or additionally, to the slot 210, the portion of the
cavity 220 at the side
of the cap 202 distal to the stem 204 can be larger than largest diameter of
the shaft 104 or the
tip 106 and can be shaped to receive a wrench, such as an Allen wrench or
sports/spike
wrench.
100281 The length of the stem 204 can range from 1/64 inch (0.396875 mm) to
3.5 inches
(88.9 mm), such as in increments of 1/64 inches (or, 0.396875 mm).
[0029] In one example, the stem 204 includes threads 208. The threads 208 can
be any
appropriate size, including, without limitation, ranging from 1/64 inch
(0.396875 mm) to 1
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inch (25.4 mm), such as in increments of 1/64 inches (or, 0.396875 mm). The
stem 204 can
include any appropriate number of threads, whether in total or in threads per
inch, including,
without limitation, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18,
20, 24, 32, 40, 50, 60,
70, 80, 90, 100, up to 2, up to 3, up to 4, up to 5, up to 6, up to 7, up to
8, up to 9, up to 10, up
to 11, up to 12, up to 13, up to 14, up to 15, up to 16, up to 18, up to 20,
up to 24, up to 32, up
to 40, up to 50, up to 60, up to 70, up to 80, up to 90, up to 100, at least
2, at least 3, at least 4,
at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at
least 11, at least 12, at least
13, at least 14, at least 15, at least 16, at least 18, at least 20, at least
24, at least 32, at least
40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, at least
100, or the like. In one
example, the stem 204 is threaded at one or more segments of the stem length.
In another
example, the stem 204 is threaded along the entirety of the stem length.
[0030] In one example, the stem 204 is fluted. The flutings provide increased
resistance in
the ground due to stresses (e.g., shear stress) or forces exerted on the
anchor 200 when a golf
ball is driven off the tee 100. The flutings can be any appropriate shape
including, without
limitation, semi -spherical, conical, pyramidal, rectangular, triangular, or
the like.
Alternatively, the stem 204 can have one or more projections extending
outwardly,
downwardly, upwardly, or combinations thereof While fluting creates one or
more grooves
(i.e., the grooves are carved into an outer surface of the stem 204), the
projections extend
from the outer surface of the stem 204. In another example, the stem 204 can
be fluted and
include one or more projections.
[0031] In one example, the threads, flutes, or projections have a diameter
(TD) greater than a
cap diameter CD. In another example, the threads, flutes, or projections have
a diameter (TD)
less than the cap diameter CD. In yet another example, the threads, flutes, or
projections have
a diameter (TD) equal to the cap diameter CD.
[0032] The tip 206 can be sized (e.g., ranging from 1/64 inch (0.396875 mm) to
3.5 inches
(88.9 mm), such as in increments of 1/64 inches (or, 0.396875 mm)) and shaped
(e.g.,
tapered, cylindrical, pointed, conical, pyramidal, triangular, "X", "+",
rectangular, the like, or
combinations thereof) based on the type of ground into which the anchor 200 is
being
inserted or the conditions of the ground at the time of insertion. The size
and shape can also
be selected to increase the ease of insertion of the anchor 200 into the
ground. For example,
when the soil or ground is rocky, the tip 206 can be shorter to reduce the
chance of breaking
and sharper (i.e., smaller internal angle) to better penetrate the rocks or
between the rocks.
As another example, when the soil or ground is loose, the tip 206 can be
longer to increase
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forces exerted on the anchor 200 by the ground (thereby requiring more forces
exerted on the
anchor 200 during a drive to cause the anchor 200 to move).
[0033] In one example, the cap 202, stem 204, and tip 206 are a single piece.
In one
example, the cap 202 is removably attached to the stem 204, such as by
threads, detents,
dovetail joint, tongue-and-groove joint, press fit, the like or combinations
thereof. Removing
the cap 202 from the stem 204 provides access to a deeper portion of the
cavity 220, thereby
permitting a broken or sheared tee to be removed. In another example, the tip
206 is
removably attached to the stem 204, such as by threads, detents, dovetail
joint, tongue-and-
groove joint, press fit, the like or combinations thereof Removing the tip 206
from the stem
204 allows for the replacement or switching of stem 204s, such as when the tip
206 breaks or
to accommodate different ground or soil conditions.
[0034] FIG. 3 shows an anchor 300 with barbs 302. The anchor 300 is similar to
the anchor
200, except that anchor 300 includes the barbs 302. The barbs 302 can extend
outwardly,
downwardly, upwardly, or combinations thereof from the tip 206 or the cap 202
to increase
grip force. The barbs can also extend outwardly, downwardly, upwardly, or
combinations
thereof from the shaft 204, such as when the shaft 204 is not threaded.
[0035] FIG. 4A shows an anchor 400, such as for use on an artificial surface.
FIG. 4B shows
a cross-sectional view of the anchor 400 taken along the line
The anchor 400 includes
a stem 402 and a base 404. The diameter of the stem 402 is sized to fit
through a hole in a
driving range mat. The diameter of the base 404 is sized to prevent the anchor
400 from
being pulled through the hole in the same direction as the stem 402 when
inserted into the
mat (i.e., the base diameter is larger than the diameter of the hole in the
mat). The anchor
400 also includes a cavity 406 (formed, for example, by one or more inner
walls within the
anchor) sized and shape to accept and engage the shaft 104 of the tee 100. The
cavity 406
can be fully threaded, partially threaded, or not threaded at all.
[0036] The length of the stem 402 can range from 1/4 inch (6.35 mm) to 3.5
inches (88.9
mm), such as in increments of 1/64 inches (or, 0.396875 mm). In one example,
an anchor
having a first stem height can be provided. In another example, more than
anchor, each
having different stem heights, can be provided.
100371 In one example, the stem 402 and the base 404 are a single piece. In
another example,
the stem 402 or a portion thereof is removably attached to the base 404, such
as by threads,
detents, dovetail joint, tongue-and-groove joint, press fit, the like or
combinations thereof
Removing the stem 402 from the base 404 provides access to a deeper portion of
the cavity
406, thereby permitting a broken or sheared tee to be removed.
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[0038] In one example, a portion of an inner wall of the stem 406 includes a
curved or
tapered surface 408 at the side of the stem 406 opposite the base 404 to
provide access to a
deeper portion of the cavity 406, thereby permitting a broken or sheared tee
to be removed.
[0039] In one example, the base 404 includes one or more barbs extending
upwardly,
outwardly, downwardly, or combinations thereof to provide more secure grip to
the mat, the
ground, or a combination thereof
[0040] FIG. 5A shows an assembled golf tee system 500. FIG. 5B shows a cross-
sectional
view of the assembled golf tee system 500 along the line IV-IV. In one
example, the anchor
200 is first inserted into the ground (or the mat, where appropriate). The tee
100 is then
inserted into the anchor 200. The ball height BII can be adjusted by rotating
the tee 100
clockwise or counter-clockwise. The ball height BH can be a distance from a
bottom of the
cap 202 (i.e., where the cap 202 would contact and rest on the ground surface)
to a ball-
contacting surface of the head of the tee when the tee is inserted into the
cavity of the anchor.
[0041] In one example, the ball height Bll is 86.12 mm. Therefore, having a
12.7 mm
penetrating portion Pp (i.e., portion of the tee 100 that extends from the
bottom of the cap 202
to the tip 106 of the tee 100; or, a portion of the tee 100 that is at and
below the ground
surface when the golf tee system 500 is inserted into the ground) provides a
tee length TL of
98.82 mm. Alternatively, the penetrating portion Pp can be 3.175 mm, 6.35 mm,
9.525 mm,
or greater, thereby providing tee lengths TL, with ball heights Bll of 86.12
mm, of 89.295
mm, 92.47 mm, 95.645 mm, or greater. Furthermore, the ball height BH is not
intended to be
so limited. The ball height BH can be at least 3.175 mm. The ball height BH
can also be
adjusted based on golfer preference.
[0042] In other words, the tee length TL is equal to the sum of ball height BH
and the
penetrating portion Pp of the tee 100.
[0043] In one example, the tee 100 is already inserted and adjusted within the
anchor 200
before insertion of the anchor 200 into the ground (or mat, where
appropriate). For example,
a golfer can adjust the ball height BH at the first practice range. Then, the
golfer may remove
the fully-assembled golf tee system 500 from the ground and then insert the
fully-assembled
golf tee system 500 at a different location of the first practice range or at
a second practice
range. This provides a consistent ball height BH, such from location to
location or range to
range, with no additional measuring required.
[0044] In other words, the ball height BH can remain consistent from hole to
hole, range to
range, and course to course. The tee 100 can remain fixed relative to the
anchor 200 by the
threads, a force fit, a locking mechanism, such as a stop, lock, or plug.
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[0045] Additionally, though the tee 100 is discussed as having threads, the
tee 100 need not
be so limited. For example, the tee 100 can have detents, clips, bumps,
indentations, or the
like. The tee 100 can be height-adjusted by a press fit or by engaging with
complementary
holes, detents, or clips on an inner wall or surface of the anchor. Therefore,
a non-threaded
tee can be pushed or pulled into or out of the anchor to adjust the ball
height BH¨though the
pushing or pulling may need to overcome one or more forces (such as those due
to a press fit,
clips, detents, etc.).
[0046] The tee and the anchor can each be composed of a variety of different
materials
including, but not limited to, a ceramic; a metal; organic or inorganic
materials; wood; one or
more plastics; one or more rubbers, including silicone; the like; or
combinations thereof
[0047] A kit including one or more tees, one or more anchors, one or more
anchor tips, the
like, or combinations or multiples thereof In one example, a kit can include
one anchor and
multiples tips, such that no two tips have all of the same characteristics.
For example, a first
tip can be longer and narrow than a second tip. Or, for example, a first tip
can be made of a
softer or more pliable material than a second tip. The characteristics can
include density,
hardness, length, shape, taper, barb, the like, or combinations or multiples
thereof
[0048] In another example, a kit can include one anchor and multiple tips,
such that the tips
are identical.
[0049] FIG 6A shows a golf tee system 600, with the removable cap 615, shown
slightly
removed from the anchor portion 600. The golf tee system has a central shaft
604, upon
which threads 608 are disposed. The lower section has a spike 606. The threads
are
configures to bite into and pull the tee system 600 into the ground. FIG 6B
shows the
underside of the removable cap 615. As depicted, the anchor portion has a
locating pin 614
on the side of the upper surface 603. The pin 614 is designed to locate into a
corresponding
slot 613 in the removable cap 615. The corresponding slot 615 is shown in FIB
6B. More
than one pin 614 may be located on the anchor cap 603. Further, the position
of the pin 614
may change. In some embodiments, for example, the pin 614 may be located on
the top
surface, as opposed to the side, and function in the same manner. Further,
there may be more
slots 613 than pins 614. In an embodiment with additional slots 613, this
would allow a user
to lock the cap 615 into place from more than one starting position. For
example, as depicted,
there are two slots 613 positioned opposite one other on the removable cap
615. The shown
slots may correspond to a single pin 614, or, optionally, two pins 614.
[0050] Occasionally, a tee 100 may sheer off or separate. Often this occurs
just below the
surface of the removable cap 615. In a preferred embodiment, the removable cap
615 is not
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threaded, and has an opening 612 wide enough such that a tee 100 can pass
through. When a
tee 100 sheers, the removable cap 615 can be removed. This reveals a portion
of the sheered
tee, allowing the user to grasp the sheered portion and remove it from the
anchor system 600.
In various embodiments, the height of the removable cap 615 may be greater
than depicted,
and the removable cap 615 may be configured to extend into the portion of the
anchor 600
that continues into the ground. In such an embodiment, the removable cap
portion is still
removable, to allow for the exposure of a sheered tee portion. For example, in
an alternative
embodiment such as the one described, the removable cap may extend to
alternative point at
the shaft 604. The cap portion may connect to the anchor body in a similar
keyed manner, or
the two components may screw together.
[0051] According to the golf tee system 600, both the removable cap 615 and
the top of the
anchor cap 603 may each have a slot 610 to aid installation of the tee into
the surface. The
slot 610 allows for a specific tool, such as those described herein or
something more generic,
such as a coin, to be inserted into the slot 610 to aid the spinning of the
system 600 into the
ground. The slot 610 can receive a device or object (e.g., screwdriver, coin,
finger, fingernail,
a spike wrench, a sport wrench, or the like) for securing the anchor 600 into
the ground, such
as by screwing, pushing, or twisting. The anchor 600 can include multiple
slots 610. In
additional examples, only the removable cap 615 or only the anchor top 603 has
a slot 610 in
its upper surface.
[0052] FIG 7A and 7B show a cut away of the tee system 700. In one example,
the anchor
700 is first inserted into the ground (or the mat, where appropriate), with
removable cap 715
installed. The tee 100 is then inserted through the removable cap 715 and into
the anchor
700. The ball height and tee height can be adjusted in the same fashion as
systems described
above. According to an embodiment of the system 700, the ball height Bil can
be a distance
from a bottom of the cap 715 (i.e., where the cap 715 would contact and rest
on the ground
surface) to a ball-contacting surface of the head of the tee when the tee is
inserted into the
cavity of the anchor. In such an embodiment, the removable cap 715 contacts
the ground
surface at the same point as the cap 702. In this manner, the cap does not
affect the ball
height BH. Preferably, BH should include a range from the USGA limit, to just
above the
removable cap surface.
100531 As shown, the removable cap 715 fits snuggle over the top of the anchor
cap 702. As
described above, the removable cap can engage a pin in the anchor cap 702. For
example, the
depicted slot 713 located in the underside of the removable cap715, shown in
FIG. 7B, may
accept the pin, and then be locked into place by twisting the removable cap
715 relative to the
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anchor cap 702. In various embodiments the removable cap may have a thickness,
depicted
by opposing arrows in FIG 7B, of 0.08 inches. In additional embodiments the
removable cap
may have a thickness of 0.03 to 0.25 inches. The total inside width of the
removable cap may
be 1.04 inches, but may also be between Ø50 inches and 1.95 inches. In terms
of percentage,
depending on the embodiment, the removable cap 715 may increase the total
width of the
system 700 by between 5-20%. In alternative embodiments, the cap 702 may not
include a
flanged section as depicted. In such an embodiment, the removable cap 715 may
include the
flanged section and may be thicker, and a larger percentage of the total width
as a result, for
example, up to or more than 100%.
[0054] The removable cap 715 preferably has a centrally located hole 712,
through which a
tee 100 may pass. When in use, should a tee 100 sheer off at or near the top
surface of the
removable cap 715, the user may simply disengage the removable cap from the
cap 702.
When the removable cap 715 is removed, the sheered portion of the tee is
exposed and can be
removed. In a preferred embodiment, this removal process is aided by the
threaded portion
724 of the anchor 700 not extending into the removable cap 715. This allows
the removable
cap 715 to be easily removed from the anchor cap 702 without catching on the
tee. In
additional examples, the threaded portion 724 may not extend to the cap 702,
and instead
may begin at the deepest portion of radius 718. The removable cap 715 also
preferably has a
radius bevel along its upper edge. This aids in comfort. In additional
examples, the removable
cap 715 may have dimpling, stippling, or a texturized side surface (the
portion perpendicular
to the ground), which may aid a user's grip. The removable cap also may
include a fastener in
its upper surface. For example, in a preferred embodiment, the upper surface
includes a slot
with a width of about 0.075 inches and a length of about 0.80 inches. The slot
may also be cut
at a radius 718, such that the portion of the slot closest to the outer edge
of the removable cap
718 is shallowest, and the portion closest to the central hole 712 is deepest.
Such an
arrangement is beneficial for accepting objects such as coins, or the
specialty tools described
herein. In other examples, the slot 710 may be a constant depth. In additional
examples, there
may be more than one slot, for example, two slots may be placed in an X or
plus (+) pattern.
[0055] In one example, the ball height BH is 86.12 mm. Therefore, having a
12.7 mm
penetrating portion Pp (i.e., portion of the tee 100 that extends from the
bottom of the cap 202
to the tip 106 of the tee 100; or, a portion of the tee 100 that is at and
below the ground
surface when the golf tee system 500 is inserted into the ground) provides a
tee length Ti. of
98.82 mm. Alternatively, the penetrating portion Pp can be 3.175 mm, 6.35 mm,
9.525 mm,
or greater, thereby providing tee lengths TL, with ball heights BH of 86.12
mm, of 89.295
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mm, 92.47 mm, 95.645 mm, or greater. Furthermore, the ball height B11 is not
intended to be
so limited. The ball height BH can be at least 3.175 mm. The ball height BH
can also be
adjusted based on golfer preference. The total height of the system 700
without the cap may
be 2.5 inches. In other embodiments, the total height TH may be between 1.5
and 4 inches.
The height TH may be selected, for example, based on surface conditions. The
diameter I'D at
the exterior threads 708 may be, for example 0.9 inches. In alternative
embodiments, the
diameter may be 0.4 inches to 2 inches, based on surface conditions. For
example, more
aggressive threads 708 may be used in soft conditions to prevent unwanted
ejection of the
system 700 when struck. In firmer condition, small less aggressive, or less in
number, threads
708 may be used. The Anchor portion height, AH is also depicted, as the length
of the body
prior to the sharpening point. This height may preferably be about 1.13
inches, but may vary
depending on the embodiment. For example, some embodiments may have
considerably
more threads 708, and therefore a much smaller point 706. In this situation,
the AH would be
much larger than depicted. The converse is also true, in some instances less
threads 708 may
be used, and the AH may shrink, for example, from .25" to 2".
[0056] In preferred embodiments, the tee will only have threads along a
portion of its length,
as depicted in FIG 14. Additionally, though the tee 100 is discussed as having
threads, the tee
100 need not be so limited. For example, the tee 100 can have detents, clips,
bumps,
indentations, or the like. The tee 100 can be height-adjusted by a press fit
or by engaging
with complementary holes, detents, or clips on an inner wall or surface of the
anchor.
Therefore, a non-threaded tee can be pushed or pulled into or out of the
anchor to adjust the
ball height B11¨though the pushing or pulling may need to overcome one or more
forces
(such as those due to a press fit, clips, detents, etc.).
[0057] FIG. 8 shows an exploded view of the components of a tee system 800. In
a preferred
embodiment, the tee system 800 is used with a standard artificial golf mat. In
such an
embodiment, the flanged portion 802 of the base 801 is located underneath the
artificial golf
mat, holding the system 800 in place. As shown, the system 800 is comprised of
multiple
components. The base 802 includes the flanged portion 801, and a stem portion
807. The
stem portion includes external 825 and internal threading 826. Another
component, the tee
mount stem 805, threads into the inner threading 826 of the base stem 807. The
tee mount
stem 805 includes internal threading 827. The internal threading is configured
to accept the
tee, through opening 820, not shown. The tee mount stem 805 also includes a
flanged upper
surface 812. Another component of the tee system 800 is the cap 804. The cap
is placed over
the top of the tee mount step 805. The inside of the cap 804 includes threads
to accept the
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external threaded portion 825 of the base 801. Another component of the system
800 is an
optional removable spacer 806. Any number of spacers 806 may be included. In a
preferred
embodiment, the system 800 is shipped with two spacers 806 included. The
spacer 806 rests
between the upper portion of the base stem 825, and the underside of the
flanged upper
surface 812 of the tee mount stem 805. When installed, the spacers 806 raise
the effective
height of the tee mount stem 805 relative to the base 801.
[0058] FIG. 9 shows a cut away of a tee system 900. In the shown
configuration, the cap 904
is installed, and lowered onto the tee stem 907. The tee stem 905 has been
elevated by a
single spacer 806. In such a configuration, the cap 904 is raised from the
base, accounting for
the spacer 806. Three separate threaded portions are shown (904, 906, 907).
The first
threaded portion is between the cap 904 and the exterior side of the base stem
907. The
second threaded portion is between the tee stem 905, and the interior of the
base stem. The
third is between the tee (not shown) and the interior of the tee stem 905.
Additionally, though
the tee is discussed as having threads, and corresponding threads at the
interior of the tee
stem 905, the tee 100 and tee stern 905 need not be so limited. For example,
the tee 100 and
tee stem 905 can have detents, clips, bumps, indentations, or the like. The
tee 100 can be
height-adjusted by a press fit or by engaging with complementary holes,
detents, or clips on
an inner wall or surface of the tee stem 905. Therefore, a non-threaded tee
can be pushed or
pulled into or out of the tee stem to adjust the ball height B11¨though the
pushing or pulling
may need to overcome one or more forces (such as those due to a press fit,
clips, detents,
etc.).
[0059] The cap 804 of system 800 preferably has a hole at its center. The hole
facilitates
insertion of the tee 100 into the tee stem 805. The hole 820 may be of various
sizes, but is
preferably at least large enough such that the tee may pass through. In some
embodiments it
may be beneficial where the hole 820 in the cap 804 is as small as practical,
in order to
prevent debris from entering the system 800. When in use, should a tee sheer
off at or near
the top surface of the cap, the user may simply disengage the cap 804 from the
base stem 807.
When the cap 804 is removed, the sheered portion of the tee is exposed and can
be removed.
In a preferred embodiment, this removal process is aided by the threaded
portion of the tee
stem 807 not extending into the removable cap 804. Said another way, the tee
is not threaded
into the cap 804.
[0060] FIG. 10 shows the components of a tee system 1000. In one example of
the system
1000, the base 1001 has a base flange 1002 with a diameter 1001D of about two
inches. The
diameter 1001D may change depending on the embodiment. Preferably, the base
flange 1002
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has a diameter that is at least 0.5 inches in diameter. In an additional
embodiment the base
flange has a diameter that is at least 0.75 inches in diameter. In an
additional embodiment the
base flange has a diameter that is at least 1 inch in diameter. in an
additional embodiment the
base flange has a diameter that is at least 1.25 inches in diameter. In an
additional
embodiment the base flange has a diameter that is at least 1.5 inches in
diameter. In an
additional embodiment the base flange has a diameter that is at least 1.75
inches in diameter.
In an additional embodiment the base flange has a diameter that is at least
2.25 inches in
diameter. In an additional embodiment the base flange has a diameter that is
at least 2.5
inches in diameter. In an embodiment of the invention, the base flange has a
height of 0.137
inches. In additional examples, the base flange has a height between 0.100
inches and 0.250
inches. In an embodiment of the invention, the base stem 807 has a height
1001H from the
ground surface, of 0.656 inches. In additional examples, the base stem has a
height, from the
ground surface, of 0 .250 inches to 1.0 inches. In an embodiment of the
invention, the base
stem has a diameter of about 0.630 inches. In additional examples of the
invention, the base
stem can have a diameter 1001D of .33 to 1 inch. Preferably, the base stem is
configured to
fit into the hole in a standard artificial golfing mat.
[0061] System 1000 also includes a tee stem 1005. In an embodiment of the
invention, the
tee stem 1005 has a height 1005H of 0.75 inches. In additional examples of the
invention, the
tee stem can have a height of 0.25 to 1.5 inches. In an embodiment of the
invention, the tee
stem has a width 1005D, at the threaded portion, of 0.47 inches, corresponding
to M12x1.5
threads. In additional examples of the invention, the tee stem can have a
width, at the
threaded portion, of 0.33 to 1 inches. In an embodiment of the invention, the
tee stem
includes an upper flanged portion. The upper flanged portion is preferably
larger in diameter
than the threaded portion of the tee stem. For example, the flanged portion
can have a
diameter 1005 CD of 0.55 inches. In additional examples of the invention, the
upper flanged
portion can have a diameter between 0.34 and 1.01 inches. The height of the
upper flanged
portion is preferably 0.094 inches. In additional examples of the invention,
the height of the
upper flanged portion of the tee stem can be between 0.065 and 0.250 inches.
[0062] System 1000 also optionally includes a spacer 1006. In an embodiment of
the
invention, the spacer 1006 has an outside diameter 10060D of 0.550 inches and
an inside
diameter 1006ID of 0.472 inches. The outside diameter and inside diameter
preferably
correspond with the diameter of the threaded portion of the tee stem, and the
upper flange of
the tee portion. Preferably, the spacer fits over the threaded portion of the
tee stem, but
cannot fit over the upper flanged portion of the tee stem. In an embodiment of
the invention,
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the optional spacer 1006 has a height 1006H of 0.188 inches. In additional
examples of the
present invention, the spacer 1006 can have a height of 0.100 to 0.500 inches.
[0063] The system 1000 also includes a cap 1004. In an embodiment of the
invention, the cap
1004 has a height 1004H of 0.71 inches. In additional examples of the present
invention, the
cap can have a height of 0.30 to 1.25 inches. Preferably the cap 804 is of
sufficient height
such that, with one or more optional spacers 806 installed, the lower edge of
the cap 804 can
engage the threads 825 on the outer portion of the base stem 807. In an
embodiment of the
invention, the cap 1004 has a diameter 1004D of 0.69 inches. Preferably, the
cap is of a
sufficient diameter such that it can engage with the base stem. In one
embodiment, the
internal walls 826 of the cap 804 have M16x1.5 threads. Other thread size and
pitch may be
used. In an embodiment of the invention, the cap has a central hole with a
diameter 1004ID
of 0.31 inches. Preferably, the hole is large enough to allow the tee to pass
through.
100641 FIG. 11 shows various embodiments of the present invention 1100, 1101,
and 1102,
which include two spacers, one spacer, and no spacers, respectively. Adding a
spacer changes
the minimum height of the embodiment With no spacers installed, for example,
embodiment
1102 has a height 1102H of 0.85 inches. With on spacer installed, embodiment
1101 has a
height 1101H 1.038 inches. With two spacers installed, embodiment 1100 has a
height 1100H
of 1.23 inches. As per the discussion above, and as depicted, the spacers are
positioned
between the top side of the base stem, and the lower portion of the tee stem
flange. In this
manner, the spacer raises the tee stem relative to the base. This also raises
the cap 1104, since
the cap sits atop the tee stem flange 1105. The spacers 1106 are useful for
controlling the
height of the cap 1104 relative to the surface of an artificial mat, for
example. In some
embodiments it is preferable that the cap 1104 remain under the surface level
of the artificial
mat, protecting the cap from being struck directly. If the cap 1104 is too
low, however, the
tee may be more prone to sheering, and may be more difficult to insert.
Spacers 1106 can be
added or removed to accommodate artificial mats of varying thicknesses. For
example, when
arriving at a driving range, a user can lift the artificial mat, and place the
system 1100
through a hole in the artificial mat. When the mat is placed back onto the
ground, the user
may find that the cap is resting well below the surface of the mat. The user
may then lift the
mat, remove the system 1100, remove the cap 1104 and the tee stem 1105 and
insert one
spacer 1106 to arrive at system 1101 or two spacers to arrive at 1100. The
assembly is
reconfigured by sliding the spacer over the threaded portion of the tee stem,
and then
reassembling the tee stem into the base, and the cap over the tee stem.
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[0065] In an additional embodiment of the present invention, an anchor, such
as those
described above, may be integrated directly into a practice mat. In this
manner, a driving
range operator, or other consumer, could purchase a practice mat with an
anchor already
installed, and would only need to purchase the corresponding tee portion in
order to provide
further adjustment. In this embodiment, the anchor portion may differ from
those described
above, by way of being integrated, such that the mat has the threaded
component integrated
into it. These threaded locations may be located at multiple points around the
mat, each
capable of accepting a tee.
FIG. 12A-C shows a grass anchor installation tool 1200 according to an
embodiment of the
present invention. The tool 1200 is designed to engage with the various grass
anchors
described above, including 200, 300, 600, and 700. When installing a grass
anchor using a
simple means, a coin for example, it may be difficult for a user to quickly
discern the precise
angle of insertion. In this manner, once a tee is screwed into the anchor, the
user may realize
that the anchor was installed at an inconvenient or unwanted angle. The
presently described
tool solves this problem.
[0066] Installation tool 1200 is a single piece tool. The tool has a lower
radius 1205 which is
configured to precisely engage the upper cap (removable or non-removable) of
the various
grass anchors described herein. The lower radius 1205 may take many shapes,
for example, it
may include two separate portions, arranged as prongs, as shown in FIG 13 for
example,
along the radius, such that the prongs may also be used as a traditional pitch
mark repair tool.
[0067] According to various embodiments, the tool 1200 is tall enough to
quickly indicate
whether the anchor is being driven into the ground in a square fashion. hi a
preferred
embodiment, the tool has a height 1200H of about 2.30 inches. In additional
examples the
tool is between 1.5 and 3.5 inches tall. Other heights are possible and within
the scope of the
invention. The width 1207W at the base of the pads 1207 is about 1 inch. In
alternative
embodiments, with width between 0.5 inches and 3 inches. The height of the pad
is depicted
as around 0.95 inches. The height of the pad may vary greatly depending on the
embodiment
of the invention. For example, in at least one embodiment, the central tee
portion 1201 may
simply have the radium portion 1205 at its base.
100681 As shown, the tool includes wings 1203 extending away from the central
spine of the
tool 1200. The wings provide sufficient grip for the user to spin the anchor
into the ground.
The width of the wings provides additional leverage. In various embodiments of
the present
invention, the width of the tool 1203W, from wing to wing, is about 1.5
inches. In additional
examples, the wings may be narrower or wider, for example, from 1 inch to 2.5
inches. In
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further embodiments, the wings may not exist at all, and the center of the
tool may be
cylindrical in nature. In various embodiments the thickness 1203T of the wing
1203 is about
0.7 inches. This thickness may increase or decrease depending on the
corresponding cap and
slot arrangement. According to the present embodiment, pads 1207 extend away
from the
central spine of the tool at points perpendicular to the wings. These pads
provide increased
comfort and ergonomic support to the user.
[0069] The top section 1201 of the tool 1200 may resemble a tee, or include
any other type of
direction indicator, such that the user is quickly aware of whether the anchor
is being
installed square. For example, according to the tool 1200, when installing an
anchor, a user
can reference the tee portion 1201 which extends opposite the anchor, to
determine whether
the anchor is being installed square. If it is not, the upper tee portion will
be positioned in a
manner other than perpendicular to the ground. In some embodiments both the
tool 1200 and
the anchor cap may be magnetic, such that the tool 1200 is attracted to the
anchor, making it
easier to position as the user goes to place the anchor into the ground.
[0070] Tool 1200 is designed to work in conjunction with various embodiments
of the anchor
system described herein, and may form a component of a system including those
grass anchor
systems.
[0071] FIG. 13 shows an installation tool 1300 according to an embodiment of
the present
invention. It is a desire of the anchor system described above to enable a
user to maintain
consistent tee height independent of where the user inserts the anchor. To
accomplish this, it
can be preferable that the tee remains inserted into the anchor portion at a
fixed height, and
then the anchor and tee system is simply transferred from one location to
another, for
example one tee box to the next, or a driving range to the course. In order to
ease the
insertion of the anchor and tee system, without disturbing the height of the
tee, a user may
utilize instillation tool 1300.
[0072] Installation tool 1300 is configured to engage the cap (non-removable
or removable)
of an anchor, to allow a user to spin the anchor into or out of the ground. To
accomplish this,
the tool 1300 has twin barbs 1302 at the lower distal end. These barbs are
configured to
match the radius of the cap portion of an anchor. In various embodiments, the
barbs may be
shaped to allow use as a ball mark repair tool.
100731 The installation tool 1300 is further configured with a central channel
1305. The
central channel 1305 is positioned outside of the central plane A of the
barbs. This allows the
tool 1300 to wrap around a tee, by placing the tee into the channel 1305, such
that the tee
does not impede access to the cap. In this manner, the tool 1300 can engage
the cap portion of
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an anchor, and be used to install and uninstall the anchor into the ground,
without disturbing
the tee height.
[0074] The tool 1300, as shown, also includes wings 1303 on either side. The
wings 1303
provide ergonomic support to the user's hand and increase leverage between the
user and the
tool when the user is installing or uninstalling an anchor. The tool may also
be used to
remove a removable cap, where so equipped.
[0075] According to various embodiments, the tool 1300 has a height 1300H of
about 1.12
inches. The tool may be taller or shorter, for example, 0.5" to 2.5" depending
on the use case
and user. The width 1300W of the wings 1303 may be about 1.5 inches from end
to end. In
various embodiments the tool may be much narrower, for example. 0.5 inches
wide, with
little to nonexistent wings, or up to 2.5" wide. Extra width would provide
increased leverage
for users requiring additional assistance.
100761 FIG 14 shows five different (1400-1404) tee embodiments according to
the present
invention. The five embodiments depict different heights and thread heights.
As shown, in
various embodiments, the threaded portion may not extend all the way up the
tee. 1400 has a
specification of A = 0.375 inches, B = 1 inch, and C= 1.375 inches. 1401 has a
specification
of C = 2.125 inches, B = 1.50 inches. 1402 has a specification of C = 2.875
inches and B =
1.50 inches. 1403 has a specification of C = 3.625 inches and B = 1.50 inches.
1403 has a
specification of C = 4 inches, B = 2.0 inches, C, = 0.44 inches, CH = 0.10
inches, W = 0.25
inches, TPI = 5/16-18, and a Rad of 220 degrees at the lower tip. In each
instances, the
specification are merely exemplary. Any component of one or more tees may
change, for
example, to be made thicker or thinner to accommodate the thread pitch of an
anchor system,
or to include more or less threaded portion.
[0077] Though certain elements, aspects, components or the like are described
in relation to
one embodiment or example of an adjustable golf tee system, those elements,
aspects,
components or the like can be included with other embodiments or examples of a
golf tee and
golf tee installation system, such as when it desirous or advantageous to do
so.
[0078] The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific
nomenclature to
provide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. However, it will be
apparent to one
skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to
practice the systems and
methods described herein. The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments
or examples
are presented by way of examples for purposes of illustration and description.
They are not
intended to be exhaustive of or to limit this disclosure to the precise forms
described. Many
modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The
embodiments or
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examples are shown and described in order to best explain the principles of
this disclosure
and practical applications, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to
best utilize this
disclosure and various embodiments or examples with various modifications as
are suited to
the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of this
disclosure be defined by
the following claims and their equivalents:
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