GOLF BAG WITH PIVOTING PLATFORM ASSEMBLY

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/651,173, filed May 23, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/711,942, filed Oct. 25, 2024, the contents of which are fully incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present disclosure relates generally to golf equipment, and particularly, to golf bag and methods of manufacturing golf bags.

BACKGROUND

Golf bags hold and transport golf clubs and related equipment. Carry bags are designed to be manually carried as the player traverses the course on foot and include straps and a deployable leg assembly which allows the bag to stand in an upright, self-supporting position. This allows easy access to the golf clubs within and ensures the bag remains upright when not being carried. In many carry bags, when the legs are deployed, the body of the carry bag bends so that the support base remains stationary on the ground while the top of the bag tilts. The distance between the top of the carry bag is shortened only on the side nearest the legs, causing the contents, including golf clubs, to shift toward the leg assembly side of the bag. This shift reduces cross-sectional area and, as a result, available volume for the club grips to reside. This leads to uneven heights of the club heads because the distance from the grip to the top is varied, and further encourages all of the grips to slide to the side nearest the legs, leading to club tangle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a golf carry bag, according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side elevation view of a golf bag, in an upright position, according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of a golf bag containing golf clubs in a deployed position, according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a support base comprising a pivoting platform assembly according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a side elevation view, in cross-section, of the support base of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a support base comprising a pivoting platform assembly according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a top plan view of the support base of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a support base comprising a pivoting platform assembly according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a support base comprising a pivoting platform assembly in an upright configuration according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the support base comprising a pivoting platform assembly of FIG. 9 in a deployed configuration.

FIG. 11 is a is a perspective view of the support base of FIG. 10 with a detached platform.

FIG. 12 is an elevation side view, in cross-section, of the support base of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a prior art golf bag comprising a regular base in a deployed position.

FIG. 14A a golf bag comprising a pivoting platform in an upright position.

FIG. 14B is a golf bag comprising a pivoting platform in a deployed position.

FIG. 15 is a top plan view of the base of FIG. 13 depicting the movement of the club grips.

FIG. 16 is a top plan view of the base of FIG. 14B depicting the movement of the club grips.

FIG. 17A is a lower portion of a golf bag comprising a pivoting platform in an upright position.

FIG. 17B is a lower portion of a golf bag comprising a pivoting platform in a deployed configuration.

FIG. 18A is a lower portion of a prior art golf bag in an upright position.

FIG. 18B is a lower portion of a prior art golf bag in a deployed configuration.

Other aspects of the disclosure will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the drawing figures illustrate the general manner of construction, and descriptions and details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure. Additionally, elements in the drawing figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. The same reference numerals in different figures denote the same elements.

The golf bag described herein comprises features that alleviate club tangle by retaining available volume, particularly in the region where the grips are housed. The golf bag includes a pivoting support base and full-length divider sleeves. The pivoting support base comprises a dual-angled platform that hinges to rotate relative to a pivot axis extending through the bag.

Described herein is a golf bag with a deployable stand assembly, platform, and full-length divider sleeve that reduces interaction between grips and completely mitigates golf club grips from with one another, making it difficult to pull out a particular club. Because multiple golf clubs are often placed in a head-up position together in a single golf bag, the golf clubs can get in each other's way. Club tangle is typically caused by movement of the club grips and reduction of available volume, forcing the golf clubs to be closer together. When clubs are tangled, it becomes hard to remove a single golf club without either facing resistance or pulling a second club out.

Deployment and retraction of the stand assembly can be a major cause of club tangle in golf bags lacking features for alleviating club tangle. Without said features, a golf bag with a ground-flush support base design can partially collapse inward when the legs are deployed. Furthermore, the angle at which the flat is tilted causes the divider sleeve, and the clubs within, to shift toward one side of the bag interior. The features described herein for alleviating club tangle can prevent the divider sleeve from shifting towards the leg assembly side of the bag in the manner described above.

The pivoting platform and full-length divider sleeve described herein can be used in combination with the anti-tangle features described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/502,014, which is incorporated by reference herein. The anti-tangle features includes crush zone fabric configurations that prevent inward collapse, raised support base ring, support base dividing ribs, reinforced divider sleeve, and rain hood pocket panel.

DEFINITIONS

The term “golf bag,” as used herein, refers to a storage container for transporting golf clubs. The golf bag can comprise at least a flat, a divider top, and a support base

The term “carry bag,” as used herein, refers to a type of golf bag that is designed to be carried throughout a golf round. Carry bags can comprise straps and a stand assembly, defined below. The stand assembly allows the carry bag to stand in an upright, self-supporting position.

The term “cart bag,” as used herein, refers to a type of golf bag that is designed to be placed on a golf cart during a golf round. Cart bags are typically heavier than carry bags and are configured to remain strapped to a golf cart during a round of golf. Cart bags do not include stand assemblies.

The term “upright configuration,” as used herein, refers to a position of the golf bag where the majority of the golf bag is sitting vertically above the support base, and the stand assembly of the golf bag is retracted. The golf bag upright configuration can also be called a legs-retracted, undeployed, or unsupported configuration or position. In the upright configuration, the two legs of the stand assembly can be retracted and flush with the flat.

The term “deployed configuration,” as used herein, refers to a position of the golf bag where the golf bag is angled and supported by the stand assembly. In the deployed configuration, the majority of the golf bag does not sit vertically above the support base. The golf bag deployed configuration can also be called a stabilized, inclined, self-supporting, or legs-extended configuration or position. In the deployed configuration, the two legs of the stand assembly can be extended away from the flat.

The term “tubular body,” as used herein, refers to a general assembly of the golf bag, including at least a flat, a divider sleeve, a stay, a divider top, and a support base, but not including the stand assembly, defined below. The tubular body can be capped or enclosed at a bottom end by the support base.

The term “stay,” as used herein, refers to a structural rod, rigid or semi-rigid, that serves as a backbone for the golf bag. The stay connects to the support base and the divider top via hinges. The stay can be an internal component, hidden by the flat in an assembled bag.

The term “flat,” as used herein, refers to a fabric outer, shell, or skin that is configured to form a body of the golf bag. The flat can comprise a crush zone.

The term “crush zone,” as used herein, refers to the portion of the flat configured to collapse when the golf bag moves into the deployed configuration.

The term “pocket,” as used herein in relation to the flat, can refer to an apparel pocket, a side accessory pocket, ball pocket, a magnetic pocket, a glove pocket, a shoe pocket, and/or other pockets for holding items. A pocket of the flat can be formed from the same material as the flat, and can optionally comprise one or more panels for structural rigidity.

The term “divider top,” as used herein, refers to a rigid or semi-rigid structural component that forms a top and a mouth of the golf bag. The divider top can be configured to receive golf clubs. The divider top can also be configured to secure or be riveted to a top edge of the flat.

The term “divider top outer ring,” as used herein, refers to an outermost or peripheral portion of the divider top that surrounds a frame, defined below.

The term “frame,” as used herein in relation to the divider top, refers to a central structure of the divider top. The frame defines club pockets, as defined below.

The term “club pocket,” as used herein, refers to divider top structural openings, apertures, or holes defined by the construction of the divider top frame. Club pockets can facilitate entry of the clubs into the golf bag, while also separating, or partially separating, the clubs from one another.

The term “leg connection bracket,” as used herein, refers to a component that is integral or attached to the divider top and configured to rotationally secure a pair of legs, defined below. The bracket can receive a pair of leg end caps that hold the pair of legs. The term “leg connection bracket” can be shortened to “bracket.”

The term “handle,” as used herein, refers to a component that can be grasped and used to lift the golf bag.

The term “support base,” as used herein, refers to a rigid or semi-rigid structural component that forms an enclosed bottom of the golf bag. The support base can be configured to support the grips of the stored golf clubs when the golf bag is in an upright position. The support base can also be configured to secure or be riveted to a bottom edge of the flat.

The term “main panel,” as used herein with reference to the support base, refers to a portion of the support base that lies flush against the ground when the golf bag is in the upright configuration.

The term “support base ring,” as used herein, refers to a component in connection with the support base, extending perpendicularly from the support base main panel.

The term “ring wall,” as used herein with reference to the support base, refers to an outermost or peripheral portion of the support base that surrounds or connects to the edge of the main panel.

The term “support base inner surface” as used herein, refers to the surface of the support base facing the hollow interior of the bag.

The term “support base outer surface” as used herein, refers to the surface of the support base facing the exterior of the bag.

The term “regions,” as used herein, refers to allotted areas of the support base main panel. In some embodiments, the regions may correspond with the divisions of the divider top.

The term “dividing ribs,” as used herein in reference to the support base, refers to the components protruding from the support base main panel that define the regions along the support base main panel.

The term “stand assembly,” as used herein, refers to a deployable apparatus for supporting the golf bag. The stand assembly can comprise a pair of legs, a spring, a pair of leg end caps, and a pair of spring attachment joints.

The term “leg,” as used herein, refers to a rod, shaft, or tube that acts as a support element for the golf bag. A pair of legs can prop up the carry bag when it is in the deployed configuration.

The term “spring,” as used herein, refers to one or more thin rods with a tendency to retain its original shape. In some embodiments, the spring can comprise two thin rods that are bonded or bound together at one end. In other embodiments, the spring can be one unitary element at a first end that splits into two rods at a second end (i.e. taking on a Y-shape).

The term “leg end cap,” as used herein, refers to components that can connect a leg to a bracket of the top divider. Each leg end cap can fit over a top end of a leg.

The term “spring attachment joint,” as used herein, refers to a component that can connect the spring to the pair of legs.

The term “straps,” as used herein, refers to fabric or mesh components that allow a golfer to lift the golf bag. The straps can be configured to be placed over a golfer's shoulders.

The term “divider sleeve,” as used herein, refers to fabric sheets or a fabric tube that extends inside the flat from the divider top towards the support base. The divider sleeve can be configured to assist in separating the golf clubs. In embodiments with a tubular divider sleeve, the divider sleeve can correspond to one or more club pockets of the divider top.

The term “hollow interior,” as used herein, refers to a region enclosed by the tubular body.

The term “front,” when used herein with respect to the golf bag, refers to a belly side of the golf bag. The front of the golf bag is the side of the golf bag towards which the golf bag leans when placed in the deployed configuration.

The term “rear,” when used herein with respect to the golf bag, refers to a back side of the golf bag, opposite the front side. The rear of the golf bag is the side supporting the ball pocket. A handle is often attached to the rear of the golf bag.

The term “first side,” when used herein with respect to the golf bag, refers to a side of the golf bag between the front and the rear.

The term “second side,” when used herein with respect to the golf bag, refers to a side of the golf bag opposite the first side.

The term “outwards,” as used herein with respect to the golf bag, refers to a direction away from a center of the golf bag body. In other words, the term “outwards” refers to a direction away from the hollow interior of the golf bag.

The term “inwards,” as used herein with respect to the golf bag, refers to a direction, opposite “outwards.”

The term “support base useful area,” as used herein, refers to an area measurement that corresponds to a region of the support base interior surface that is largely free of fabric obstruction.

The term “mid-useful area,” as used herein, refers to an area measurement that corresponds to a middle region of the tubular body, the middle region being roughly halfway between the support base and the divider top. The mid-useful area can be measured parallel to the ground plane when the golf bag is in the upright configuration. The mid-useful area is largely free of fabric obstruction. The mid-useful area illustrates the space available for storage of golf club shafts.

The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a particular sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments described herein are, for example, capable of operation in sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Furthermore, the terms “include,” and “have,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus.

The terms “left,” “right,” “front,” “back,” “top,” “bottom,” “over,” “under,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for describing permanent relative positions. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments of the apparatus, methods, and/or articles of manufacture described herein are, for example, capable of operation in other orientations than those illustrated or otherwise described herein.

An “XYZ” coordinate system of the golf bag, as described herein, is support based upon the front side of the golf bag while in an upright position. The geometric center of the golf bag defines a coordinate system having an origin located at the geometric center of the golf bag support base. The coordinate system defines an X axis, a Y axis, and a Z axis. The X axis extends through the geometric center of the golf bag support base in a direction from the rear to the front side of the golf bag. The Y axis extends through the geometric center of the golf bag support base in a direction from the left to the right side of the golf bag support base. The Y axis is perpendicular to the X axis. The Z axis extends upwards from the geometric center of the golf bag support base, in a direction from the golf bag support base to the divider top of the golf bag. The Z axis is perpendicular to both the X axis and the Y axis. In the X axis, a positive X direction extends from the geometric center to the front of the golf bag, and a negative X direction extends from the geometric center to the rear side of the golf bag.

The XYZ coordinate system of the golf bag, as described herein defines an XY plane extending through the X axis and the Y axis. The coordinate system defines XZ plane extending through the X axis and the Z axis. The coordinate system further defines a YZ plane extending through the Y axis and the Z axis. The XY plane, the XZ plane, and the YZ plane are all perpendicular to one another and intersect at the coordinate system origin located at the geometric center of the golf bag support base.

The term “body reference axis” is an axis that extends through the geometric center of the golf bag support base and a geometric center of the divider top and can be used to define the deployment angle.

Before any embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Provided herein is a carry golf bag with a deployable leg assembly comprising a pivot platform and full-length divider sleeves to ensure golf clubs can be removed from the bag with case and prevent club tangle. The full-length divider sleeve provides a designated area for the golf clubs to be harbored. The full-length divider sleeve works in tandem with a pivoting assembly, which tilts the platform on which the golf club grips rest to maintain a more constant distance between the platform and the top of the bag. The angle at which the pivoting assembly is tilted during leg deployment relates, in part, to the angle which the bag tilts from upright when the legs are deployed. The pivoting support base and full-length divider sleeve described below can conserve support base useful area, which reduces entanglement of the grips by providing more space for storage and by preventing shifting.

The platform is configured to pivot relative to the support base, while maintaining a relatively constant relationship to the divider top. In an upright configuration, a second side of the platform is parallel or nearly parallel with the support base, divider top, and ground plane while a first region of the platform is angled relative to the ground plane, resulting in a shortened distance between the platform and the divider top than the ground-parallel (second) region, as the golf clubs resting on the first region are raised higher above the ground plane. As the golf bag is moved from an upright configuration to a deployed configuration, the platform rotates about a pivot axis, resting at full leg deployment in a position wherein the first region is now parallel or nearly parallel to the ground plane, while the second region is now angled toward the divider top, raising the clubs on the second side higher above the ground plane. Because the distance between the support base and divider top naturally shortens on the leg assembly side when the golf bag is tilted, the platform is configured to overcome the lost distance as it shifts the clubs toward the ground, thereby retaining a very similar distance on both sides in both the upright configuration and the deployed configuration.

It is common for a golfer to place shorter clubs including putters and short irons in the front region nearest to the front side, or leg assembly side, of the golf bag. Similarly, it is common to also place longer clubs, including long irons and wood-type clubs in the back region of the bag nearest to the back side of the golf bag. As mentioned above, the pivot assembly is configured such that the dual-angled platform is higher above the ground plane in the front region of the bag in the upright configuration. The distance between the platform and the divider top is shorter in the front region than in the back region. Consequently, the shorter clubs are raised so that their club heads land at a more consistent height relative to the longer clubs, making them more easily accessible and preventing them from sliding too low into the golf bag.

In the deployed configuration, the platform angles are reversed, such that the dual-angled platform is higher above the ground plane nearest the back side of the bag. The angle and maximum height of the platform correspond to the angle which the bag tilts, resulting in a consistent distance on each side of the golf bag in the upright and deployed configurations. To be specific, the distance from the platform to the divider top remains greater in the back region than in the front region. As a result, the golf club heads exposed above the bag remain more consistent, and therefore more easily accessible, in both the upright and deployed configurations.

The golf bag 100 can be a carry bag, having a stand assembly 101 with legs 102. The stand assembly 101 includes a pair of legs 102, towards which the golf bag 100 body tilts when the legs 102 are deployed. The golf bag 100 can be positioned in an upright position or a deployed configuration. The support base 136 remains flush against the ground in both the upright and deployed configurations.

Referring to FIGS. 1-3, the golf bag 100 can comprise a tubular body and a stand assembly 101. The tubular body can be formed by a flat 109 and comprise a divider top 110, a divider sleeve 111, a stay 112, and a support base 136. The tubular body can partially enclose a hollow interior of the golf bag 100. The stand assembly 101 can comprise a pair of legs 102 actuated by a spring assembly. The stand assembly 101 is attached to the divider top 110 and the support base 136. The golf bag 100 can comprise a front side 105, a first side 107, a second side 108, and a rear side 106. The stand assembly 101 can be positioned on the front side 105 of the golf bag 100. The golf bag 100 can lean towards the front side 105 when placed in the deployed configuration.

The flat 109 can further define a flat height, measured as the distance between a lower portion of the divider top 110 and an upper portion of the support base 136. In some embodiments, the flat height is in a range between 25 inches and 36 inches. In some embodiments, the flat height can be 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, or 36 inches. In some embodiments, the flat height can be more than 25 inches. In some embodiments, the flat height can be more than 30 inches.

The support base 136 comprises an inner surface 113, outer surface 114, a bottom panel 115, and receiving wall 116. The bottom panel 115 lies flush with the ground plane 117 when the golf bag 100 is set on the ground in either the upright or deployed configuration. The receiving wall 116 extends up from a perimeter edge of the bottom panel 115. The outer surface 64 of the 114 of the support base 136 contacts the ground. The inner surface 113 is opposite the outer surface 114. The inner surface 113 contacts the grips 119 of the golf clubs 118, which are placed into the hollow interior of the golf bag 100. The inner surface 113 can comprise dividing ribs 120 that can reduce grip slippage.

The body can also comprise a stay 112 that connects the divider top 110 to the support base 136 at a rear side 106 of the golf bag 100. The stay 112 acts like a backbone, giving the golf bag 100 some rigidity. The rigidity in the front of the golf bag is supported by the stay on the opposite end. The stay 112 comprises a stay top end 123, a stay bottom end 124, a top hinge 125, and a bottom hinge 126. The stay top end 123 flexibly attaches to the divider top 110 by way of the top hinge 125. The stay bottom end 124 flexibly attaches to the base ring 121 by way of the bottom hinge 126. The top and bottom hinges 125, 126 are configured to bend in a front-to-back direction. When the golf bag 100 is in the upright position, the stay 112 is positioned roughly perpendicular to both the divider top 110 and the support base 136. However, when the golf bag 100 is in the deployed configuration, the stay 112 is positioned at a first non-perpendicular angle from the divider top 110 and at a second non-perpendicular angle from support base 136. In this way, the top and bottom hinges 125, 126 allow the support base 136 to remain flat against the ground while the remainder of the bag bends or leans towards the legs 102.

The golf bag 100 further comprises the divider sleeve 111, which connects the divider top 110 and the support base 136. The divider sleeve 111 works in unison with the support base 136 to contain the golf clubs in each of their own compartments. The divider sleeve 111 can comprise a fabric tube or one or more fabric sheets that separate clubs within the body of the golf bag 100. The divider sleeve 111 can further comprise top and bottom connection members extending, respectively, from a top and bottom edge of the fabric tube. The top connection members can be configured for attaching to part of the frame. The bottom connection members can be configured to attach to the support base 136. In some embodiments, the bottom connection members of the divider sleeve 111 attach to one or more dividing ribs 120.

The divider sleeve 111 can further comprise a divider sleeve height 161, defined as the straight line distance between its connection to the divider top 110 and its connection to the support base 136. In some embodiments, the divider sleeve height 161 can be between 20 inches and 30 inches. In some embodiments, the divider sleeve height 161 can be 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30 inches. In some embodiments, the divider sleeve height 161 can be more than 20 inches. In some embodiments, the divider sleeve height 161 can be more than 28 inches. The divider sleeve 111 can extend a partial flat height in a substantially vertical direction (i.e., parallel to the bag when in an upright position). For example, the divider sleeve height 161 can range inclusively between 80-90% of the flat height. In many embodiments, a length of the divider sleeve can be greater than the divider sleeve height 161 in one or both of the upright configuration and the deployed configuration. The divider sleeve 111 can have extra material, especially in the upright position, to allow for expansion of the divider compartments when moved from the upright configuration to the deployed configuration.

The stand assembly 101 can comprise two legs 102, two leg end caps 103 corresponding to the two legs 102, a spring 128, and two spring attachment joints 129. Each leg 102 can have an upper end and lower end. Each leg end cap 103 can be configured to attach, secure, and/or adhere to the upper end of one of the two legs 102. Each leg end cap 103 can be rotationally received into the leg connection bracket of the divider top 110. The spring 128 can push the legs 102 outwards when they are extended, and the spring 128 can pull the legs 102 inwards when they are retracted. The spring 128 can comprise two arms, each one configured to connect to one of the legs 102 via the two spring attachment joints 129. The spring 128 attaches to the support base 136 at the front side 105 of the golf bag 100. When the golf bag 100 is set down and the support base 136 is pressed against the ground at a front side 105 of the golf bag 100, the spring 128 moves upwards and forces the legs 102 to extend outwards. When the golf bag 100 is lifted into the upright configuration, the spring 128 pulls the legs 102 inwards until they contact the flat 109. Simply put, when the golf bag 100 is in the upright configuration, the stand assembly 101 has its legs 102 retracted. When the golf bag 100 is in the deployed configuration, the stand assembly 101 has its legs 102 extended. The extended legs are angled relative to the flat, and rest on the ground plane, coplanar with a bottom surface of the support base, at a distance away from the golf bag, to support the golf bag without the need for any external support. In the deployed configuration, the support base and the two legs form a tripod that is fully self-supporting.

The configuration of the golf bag 100 (upright or deployed) can affect the interaction between the golf bag 100 and the golf clubs 118. When the golf bag 100 is in the upright configuration, the golf clubs 118 are typically oriented such that the golf club shafts 132 are roughly vertical with reference to a ground plane 117. In the upright configuration, the golf clubs 118 are primarily supported by their grips 119 contacting the support base 136. The golf clubs 118 are held roughly upright with their shafts 132 or hosels leaning gently against the frame of the divider top 110. Golfers naturally place golf clubs into a golf bag so that the golf club grip rests and extends into the support base 60 in a position that generally corresponds to a compartment of the divider top 110 and divider sleeve 111. Club tangle occurs when the golf bag 100 is shifted into non-upright orientations, anywhere between the upright configuration and the deployed configuration, that tilt the grips 119 and shafts 132 relative to their original orientation within the hollow interior. For example, club tangle can be exacerbated by placing the golf bag 100 in the deployed configuration or orienting the bag in such a way that the bag tilts, such as by wearing the bag on one's back or setting the bag sideways, such as in the trunk of a vehicle.

When the golf bag 100 is in the deployed configuration, the golf clubs 118 are typically oriented such that the golf club shafts 132 are angled with respect to the ground plane 117. As the stand assembly 101 is extended, the body folds towards the legs 102, crumpling a front, lower region of the flat 109 adjacent the support base 136. The support base 136 remains flush against the ground. The limited space for movement can cause or aggravate club tangle.

The angle of the pivoting platform 134 can be correlated with the angle at which the bag deploys. The deployment angle, measured between the z-axis and the body reference axis 164, in a side view, can be approximately zero degrees in the upright configuration. In the deployed configuration, however, the deployment angle can range, inclusively between 25 degrees and 45 degrees, preferably inclusively between 30 degrees and 40 degrees. In some embodiments, the deployment angle in the deployed configuration can range, inclusively, between 25 degrees and 35 degrees, 30 degrees and 34 degrees, 32 degrees and 36 degrees, 34 degrees and 38 degrees, 36 degrees and 40 degrees, or 35 degrees and 45 degrees.

In golf bags without the herein described platform 134 and full-length divider sleeve 111, deploying the stand assembly 101 can cause movement of the grips 119 from their original position in the support base 136 toward the front side 105 of the bag. This grip movement, caused in part by the constriction of support base 136 useful surface area and/or mid-useful surface area can result in more club tangle with each deployment of the stand assembly 101. The platform 134 and full-length divider sleeve 111 can help reduce or prevent constriction of the support base 136 useful surface area. Hereafter, it should be understood that constriction/reduction of the support base 136 useful surface area will also result in constriction/reduction of the body useful volume.

Described below are a platform 134 and full-length divider sleeve 111, which preserve grip and shaft positions to prevent club tangle. The golf bag 100, as described herein, can further comprise any one or combination of the embodiments described in detail below, including the platform 134 and full-length divider sleeve 111.

Pivoting Assembly

In some embodiments, the golf bag 100 can comprise a pivoting platform assembly 133 that supports clubs and other equipment stored in the hollow body of the bag. The pivoting platform assembly 133 comprises a platform 134 that actively pivots in cooperation with the golf bag 100 as the golf bag 100 moves between the upright and deployed configurations. The platform 134 also pivots relative to an external portion of the support base 136, so that the support base 136 remains stationary on the ground while the platform 134 pivots with the golf bag 100. The platform 134 helps to control the size and shape of the crush zone, preventing constriction. The platform 134 can further allow the golf bag 100 to comprise full-length sleeve dividers 111, described below, that further prevent club interaction.

The pivoting platform assembly 133 is designed to minimize the risk of club tangling during use by allowing for the use of full-length dividers. The pivoting platform assembly 133 preserves the structural integrity of the divider sleeve 111 and the flat 109, preventing them from collapsing inward near the support base 136 when the golf bag 100 is deployed, and increasing the usable volume. Moreover, the pivoting platform assembly 133 enables the incorporation of full-length sleeve dividers 111 made from a stiffer material, which further prevents club interaction. The pivoting assembly increases usable volume in the grip region of the flat interior because it: (1) maintains greater consistency in length of the flat 109 from support base 136 to top across the entire golf bag 100, (2) maintains surface area of the platform floor 162 on which the golf club grips rest, (3) maintains generally perpendicular relationship between golf club and platform 134, and (4) physically holds the flat 109 open on the rear side 106 of the golf bag 100 in the deployed position.

As best shown in FIG. 10-12, the pivoting platform assembly 133 can comprise a platform 134, a base ring 121, and a snap-on base 135. The snap-on base 135 and the base ring 121 are coupled together to create a support base 136. The platform 134 is configured to be at least partially disposed in the support base 136. In alternative embodiments, as best illustrated in FIGS. 5-9, the snap-on base 135 and the base ring 121 are integrally formed as a single piece to create the support base 136.

The base ring 121, as best shown in FIGS. 10-12, comprises a side wall 137 defining a perimeter of the base ring 121. The side wall 137 comprises a ledge 138 protruding away from the side wall 197 and extending along an outer periphery of the side wall 137. Furthermore, the side wall 137 comprises a bottom rim 139 located below the ledge 138 and including a plurality of snap-fit joints 140 distributed throughout the perimeter of the bottom rim 139. As observed in FIG. 11, the ledge 138 frames or borders the side wall 137 and the bottom rim 139 throughout the entire perimeter. Overall, the base ring 121 rigidly walls off the useful support base volume, preventing the flat 109 from collapsing inward in the region just above the platform 134.

The base ring 121 is configured to receive the snap-on base 135 via the bottom rim 139 to form the support base 136. The snap-on base 135 comprises a receiving wall 116 with a receiving wall edge 141 and a plurality of receiving slots 142. The snap-on base 135 is slidably coupled to the bottom rim 139 through the engagement of the plurality of snap-fit joints 140 with the plurality of receiving slots 142 formed in the bottom rim 139. Upon insertion, the snap-fit joints 140 undergo a temporary clastic deformation as they pass through the receiving slots 142, and subsequently return to their original configuration. This elastic recovery causes the snap-fit joints 140 to engage with corresponding retaining features within the receiving slots 142, thereby securing the snap-on base 135 in a fixed position relative to the bottom rim 139. The bottom rim 139 can extend into the receiving wall 116 until the ledge 138 connects with the receiving wall edge 141. The snap-on base 135 functions as a protective barrier that prevents debris and dust from entering the interior cavity defined between the support base 136 and the flat 109, as well as providing structural integrity.

The platform 134 is configured to be received on the inner surface of the support base 136. The platform 134 further comprises a platform floor 162 and defines a club support surface 163. The platform floor 162 further comprises first and second regions 143, 144 angled relative to each other to facilitate rotation of the platform 134 inside the support base 136. The first region 143 is located at the front of the platform floor 162, toward the legs 102 of the golf bag 100. The second region 144 is located at the back of the platform floor 162, adjacent to the first region 143. The first region 143 can define a first region plane 156, and the second region 144 can define a second region plane 157.

The pivot platform assembly 133 can work with a pulley system to actuate rotation about the pivot axis. In summary of the description above, the platform 134 comprises a raised side nearest the front of the bag in an upright configuration and a raised side nearest the back of the bag in a deployed configuration. However, the distance between the platform 134 and the divider top 110 is relatively unchanged between the upright configuration and deployed configuration. In many embodiments, the full-length divider sleeve 111 defines the pulley system. In other embodiments, a separate connection between the divider top 110 and each of the first region 143 and the second region 144 can define the pulley system.

The full-length divider sleeve 111 or alternate pulley(s) is coupled to the platform 134 and the divider top 110, such that it is taut in both the upright and deployed configurations. Because it is tautly securing the platform 134 to the divider top 110, each of the first region 143 and the second region 144 of the platform 134 is restricted to remain within a predetermined distance from the divider top 110, bound by the length of the divider sleeve 111. As a result, when the divider top 110 shifts away from the support base 136 during leg deployment, the second region 144 is forced to move upward by the pulley/divider sleeve 111. The first region 143 is simultaneously shifted downward because it is fixedly attached to the second region 144.

A platform angle can be measured between the first region plane and the second region plane. The platform angle is fixed and does not change when the golf bag 100 moves between upright and deployed configurations. The platform angle can range between 130 degrees and 170 degrees. In some embodiments, the platform angle can range between 130 degrees and 140 degrees, 140 degrees and 150 degrees, 150 degrees and 160 degrees, or between 160 degrees and 170 degrees. In some embodiments, the platform angle can be more than 130 degrees.

The positions of the first and second regions 143, 144 can be described relative to the ground plane 117. For example, a first region angle θ₁ can be measured between the first region 143 and the ground plane 117, and a second region angle θ₂ can be measured between the second region 144 and the ground plane 117. The first and second region angles will vary between the upright and deployed configurations. In many embodiments, the first region angle θ₁ in the upright configuration can be between 5 degrees and 60 degrees. In many embodiments, the second region angle θ₂ in the upright configuration can be between 0 degrees and −15 degrees. In many embodiments, the first region angle θ₁ in the deployed configuration can be between 0 degrees and −15 degrees. In many embodiments, the second region angle θ₂ in the deployed configuration can be between 5 degrees and 60 degrees.

The first region 143 comprises a length measured perpendicular from a front section of the first region 143 to a back section of the first region 143 where the second region 144 starts. The length of the first region 143 can range between 80 mm and 130 mm. In some embodiments, the length can range between 80 mm and 90 mm, 90 mm and 100 mm, 100 mm and 110 mm, 110 mm and 120 mm, or between 120 mm and 130 mm. The first region 143 comprises a width, measured perpendicularly from a left side to a right side of the first region 143. The width of the first region 143 can range between 180 mm and 280 mm. In some embodiments, the width can range from 180 mm and 190 mm, 190 mm and 200 mm, 200 mm and 210 mm, 210 mm and 220 mm, 220 mm and 230 mm, 230 mm and 240 mm, 240 mm, 250 mm, 250 mm and 260 mm, 260 mm and 270 mm, or between 270 mm and 280 mm.

The second region 144 comprises a length measured perpendicular from a back section of the second region 144 to a front section of the second region 144 where the first region 143 ends. The length of the second region 144 can range between 75 mm and 120 mm. In some embodiments, the length can range between 75 mm and 90 mm, 90 mm and 105 mm, or between 105 mm and 120 mm. The second region 144 comprises a width measured perpendicular from a left side to a right side of the second region 144. The width of the second region 144 can range between 180 mm and 280 mm. In some embodiments, the width can range from 180 mm and 190 mm, 190 mm and 200 mm, 200 mm and 210 mm, 210 mm and 220 mm, 220 mm and 230 mm, 230 mm and 240 mm, 240 mm, 250 mm, 250 mm and 260 mm, 260 mm and 270 mm, or between 270 mm and 280 mm.

In some embodiments, the length of the first region 143 can be equal to the length of the second region 144. In some embodiments, the length of the first region 143 can be longer than the length of the second region 144. In other embodiments, the length of the second region 144 can be longer than the length of the first region 143. A percentage of surface area made up by the first and second region 143, 144 can be calculated over the total surface area of platform 134. In some embodiments, the first region 143 can comprise 50% of the total surface area, and the second region 144 can comprise 50% of the total surface area. In some embodiments, the first region 143 can comprise up to 60% of the total surface area, and the second region 144 can comprise up to 40% of the total surface area.

The platform 134 can comprise at least one boss configured to receive the bag stays 112. The bosses can be located around the perimeter of the platform 134. The platform 134 can comprise a range between 1 and 6 bosses. In some embodiments, the platform 134 can comprise two bosses. In some embodiments, the platform 134 can comprise three bosses. In some embodiments, a first boss 145 can be located at the front portion of the first region 143 and a second boss 146 can be located at the back portion of the second region 144, opposite the first boss 145, as shown in FIG. 52. In another embodiment, a first and a second boss 145, 146 can be located at the front portion of the first region 143 and a third boss 147 can be located at the back portion of the second region 144, as shown in FIG. 54.

Furthermore, the platform 134 can include slits 148 configured to receive and attach a bottom end of the divider sleeve 111, as further described below. As shown in FIG. 56, the slits 148 extend through a top surface to a bottom surface of the platform 134, creating an access slot to receive the bottom ends of the divider sleeve 111. The platform 134 can comprise two slits 145 in the first region 143 and two slits 148 in the second region 144. In some embodiments, the platform 134 can comprise four slits 148 in the first region 143 and four slits 148 in the second region 144. In some embodiments, the first region 143 can comprise more than two slits 148, and the second region 144 can comprise more than two slits 148.

The platform 134 is pivotally or hingedly coupled to the support base 136. The platform 134 can further comprise a first and second support arms 149, 150 coupled and extending upwardly from an inner left and right surface of the platform floor 162. The first support arm 149 comprises a first aperture 151, and the second support arm 150 comprises a second aperture 152. The first and second apertures 151, 152 are dimensioned to receive a complementary fastening or alignment feature from the support base 136. The support base 136 comprises this complementary feature at an inner surface of the side wall.

As observed in FIGS. 8-11, first and second pins 153, 154 protrude from a left and right sides of the support base 136, and comprise a key-like head. The first and second pins 153, 154 are configured to engage with the first and second apertures 151, 152 of first and second support arms 149, 150. When the platform 134 is assembled inside the support base 136, the first and second pins 153, 154 are inserted through the apertures by rotationally aligning the key-shaped heads of the pins with the wider portion of the apertures. Once inserted, the platform 134 is rotated relative to the first and second pins 153, 154, such that the head of the pins moves behind a narrower section of the apertures. This rotational engagement prevents axial withdrawal of the first and second pins 153, 154, thereby locking the pins in place and securing the platform 134 to the support base 136.

The rotational engagement between the first and second pins 153, 154 and the first and second apertures 151, 152 can further define a pivot axis 155. The platform 134 can rotate a predefined amount relative to the pivot axis 155, but cannot translate relative to the pivot axis 155. The support base 136 is fixed relative to the pivot axis 155, such that the support base 136 remains stationary while the platform 134 rotates about the pivot axis 155.

The support base 136 comprises a transverse midline plane 159 that resides in the YZ plane of the golf bag support base. The pivot axis 155 also resides in the YZ plane and is parallel to the transverse midline plane 159. The pivot axis 155 can be spaced from the transverse midline plane 159 by a horizontal offset distance measured in a perpendicular direction from the transverse midline plane 159 to the pivot axis 155. The offset distance between the transverse midline plane 159 to the pivot axis 155 can comprise a positive offset distance, following a positive X axis direction, or a negative offset distance, following a negative X axis direction. The negative offset distance of the pivot axis 155 can range between 5 mm and 45 mm. In some embodiments, the negative offset distance of the pivot axis 155 can be between 5 and 10 mm, 10 and 15 mm, 15 and 20 mm, 20 and 25 mm, 25 and 30 mm, 30 and 35 mm, 35 and 40 mm, or between 40 and 45 mm. In preferred embodiments, the negative offset distance of the pivot axis 155 is 9.75 mm. The positive offset distance of the pivot axis 155 can range between 5 mm and 25 mm. In some embodiments, the positive offset distance of the pivot axis 155 can be between 5 and 10 mm, 10 and 15 mm, 15 and 20 mm, or between 20 and 25 mm.

The support base 136 further comprises an axial midline plane 160 that resides in the XY plane of the golf bag support base 136. The pivot axis 155 further comprises a vertical offset distance measured in a perpendicular direction from the axial midline plane 160 to the pivot axis 155, following a positive Z axis direction towards the divider top 110. The vertical offset distance can range between 10 mm and 45 mm. In some embodiments, the vertical offset distance can be between 10 and 15 mm, 15 and 20 mm, 20 and 25 mm, 25 and 30 mm, 30 and 35 mm, 35 and 40 mm, or between 40 and 45 mm. In preferred embodiments, the vertical offset distance of the pivot axis 155 is 38.5 mm.

The combination of the horizontal and vertical offset distances of the pivot axis 155 can increase the available travel space within the interior of the support base 136, thereby enhancing the functional range of motion of the platform 134. Additionally, the placement of the platform 134 contributes to a more balanced distribution of the weight of the golf clubs 118 supported thereon. This balance assists in counteracting gravitational forces, thereby improving the stability and operational reliability of the pivoting mechanism.

The pivoting platform assembly 133, the flat 109, and the divider top 110 cooperate to pivot and hinge between the upright position and the deployed position. In the pivoting platform assembly 133, the platform 134 assumes fixed positions relative to the support base 136 when the golf bag 100 is in either of the upright and deployed configurations. In the upright position, the platform 134, the flat 109, and the divider top 110 sit vertically above the support base 136, and the stand assembly 101 of the golf bag 100 is retracted. Because of the platform angle, the first region 143 is raised relative to the second region 144 in the upright position. This allows for shorter clubs placed in the first region 143 to be more level with longer clubs placed in the second region 144 when the golf bag 100 is in the upright position.

In the deployed position, the golf bag 100 is angled and supported by the stand assembly 101. In the deployed position, the platform 134 hinges about the pivot axis 155, lowering the first region 143 towards the support base 136 and raising the second region 144 upwards. This allows the platform 134 along with the flat 109 and the divider top 110 to reach the deployed position, while the support base 136 stays flat on the ground. By including a platform 134, the angles in the divider sleeves 111 remain parallel and maintain a consistent length. This allows the golf clubs 118 to remain on the same plane, and can help reduce club tangle, as the golf clubs 118 remain on their designated spot and do not clash onto each other. Moreover, since the divider sleeve 111 can keep its full length during the transition between positions, thereby designating placement areas for the golf clubs 118 to live in.

Because the platform 134 is bent, it has a greater surface area in any configuration than a typical planar platform. Additionally, more of the support base useful surface area is retained when moving from an upright configuration to a deployed configuration in a golf bag 100 comprising the pivoting platform assembly 133. When the platform 134 tilts during leg deployment, the grips 119 are not forced to shift by the crumpling flat fabric because they are able to access all or nearly all of the platform 134, despite the misalignment between the support base 136 and the divider top 110. A typical support base platform as known in the art that remains parallel to a ground plane in a deployed configuration comprises edges that may not be accessible by club grips, an issue that is further aggravated by any inward crumpling of flat fabric on the front of the bag, thereby reducing the useful support base surface area.

A visual comparison of the golf club positions in the typical golf bag and the golf bag 100 with the pivoting platform assembly 133 as described herein is best shown in FIGS. 13-14B. The golf bag comprising a typical base, shown in FIG. 13, requires the club nearest the rear side of the golf bag (shown by the left-most arrow) to shift forward to remain on the base platform. It can be noted that, in FIG. 13, the left-most arrow is forced closer to the adjacent arrow in the deployed configuration. In contrast, the golf bag 100 with the pivoting platform assembly 133, as shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, retains the parallel alignment of the golf clubs 118 (shown by the arrows) in both the upright configuration (FIG. 14A) and the deployed configuration (FIG. 14B). The golf club 118 nearest the rear side 106 of the golf bag 100 (i.e. the left-most arrow) can remain in its original position against the flat 109 and still reach its original grip position on the platform floor 162.

Full-Length Divider Sleeve

A full-length divider sleeve 111, which extends all the way between the divider top and the support base, can further prevent interaction of golf clubs by physically separating some or all of the clubs from one another. Combining a full-length divider sleeve 111 with the platform 134 allows for a stiff, non-stretch or low-stretch material to be used because the divider sleeve 111 on the rear side 106 of the golf bag 100 is not being tugged or stretched in a deployed configuration.

In some embodiments, the golf bag 100 can comprise a full length divider sleeve 111. The divider sleeve 111 comprises a top end coupled to the divider top, and a bottom end coupled to the support base. The full-length divider sleeve 111 can extend from the divider top and the support base, with no segment of that length devoid of divider sleeve 111. This configuration forms a pocket or tube configured to house golf clubs that are completely enclosed on all sides except for the top, which receives the golf club. In many embodiments, the divider sleeve 111 comprises a plurality of pockets that separate some or all of the golf clubs, and the divider sleeve 111 pockets act as a barrier preventing one golf club from directly interacting with an adjacent golf club.

In some embodiments, the fabric at the top end of the divider sleeve 111 can be sewn directly to the divider top frame. In many embodiments, the fabric at the bottom end of the divider sleeve 111 can be directly attached to a flexible plate, which is then attached to the platform 134. The flexible plate can be attached to the platform 134 via mechanical fastener(s), adhesive, or another suitable fastening method.

The flexible plate can be made of a flexible or semi-rigid material that can be bent to have a similar shape as that of the platform 134. In some examples, the flexible plate can be made from a polyethylene, PVC, thermoplastic elastomer, carbon fiber composite, aluminum, or another suitable material. The rigid material reduces the distance that a grip can travel into another compartment. As a result, adjacent grips are less likely to interact on opposite sides of divider sleeve material. While a grip may contact the divider sleeve material, it will not stick to the divider sleeve material like it would stick to another grip. When a grip directly contacts another grip, as is possible with a typical golf bag, the rubber material of the grip is very difficult to slide relative to the other grip. When a full-length divider sleeve 111 are utilized, grips are completely barred from directly contacting one another.

In another embodiment, the divider sleeve 111 can attach directly to the platform 134. In one example, the slots 148 defined within the platform 134, as shown in FIG. 8, can receive the divider sleeve 111. The portion of the divider sleeve 111 that protrudes below the platform 134, through the slots, can then be fastened to the bottom of the platform 134. In some of these embodiments, the divider sleeve 111 is fastened to the bottom surface of the platform 134 by adhesive, hook-and-loop fastener, or clips. In other embodiments, two or more portions of the divider sleeve 111 which extend below the platform 134 can be directly or indirectly attached to one another, creating a loop between slits 148 that prevent the divider sleeve 111 portions from sliding back through the slits 148. In these embodiments, the divider sleeve 111 portions can be coupled by hook-and-loop fasteners, zippers, clips, buttons, adhesive, ties, or another fastener.

The platform 134 helps maintain a more constant distance of the divider sleeve 111 between the platform 134 and the divider top 110 as the bag moves between upright and deployed positions. Because the length from divider top 110 to platform 134 is not increased when moving from an upright to deployed configuration, the divider sleeve 111 does not need to stretch to accommodate a length increase, allowing for a stiffer fabric to be used. A stiff fabric is more desirable for the divider sleeve 111 as it can have higher durability, as well as retain the positioning of the golf clubs in each of the designated placement areas because of the lack of stretch. The use of a yielding fabric would not be as desirable since its durability would be lower, and it would not support the golf clubs in the respective divider and may allow them to stretch the fabric and breech another compartment. The divider sleeve 111 can be formed from a polyester, a nylon, a combination of polyester and nylon, or any other suitable fabric. For example, the divider sleeve 111 can be formed from but not limited to polyester (PBT), ethylene polyester (PET), PCDT polyester, nylon 1/6, nylon 4/6, nylon 510, nylon 6 nylon 66, nylon 6/6-6, nylon 6/9, nylon 6/10, nylon 6/12, nylon 11, or nylon 12.

EXAMPLES

Example 1: Comparison of Grip Movement in Exemplary Golf Bag and Standard Golf Bag

The movement of the grip end resting on the support base during bag handling in an exemplary golf bag was compared to the region in which the grips fell for a standard golf bag when moving from an upright to a deployed configuration. The Exemplary Bag in this example comprised a pivoting platform assembly combined with full-length divider sleeves, as described above. The Standard Bag in this example lacked any such anti-tangle features, comprising a platform which remained stationary and parallel to the support base (and the ground plane) in both the upright and deployed configurations. The dimensions and other structures of the golf bags' other features were the same throughout the two bags. Table 1, below, summarizes the structures of each of the Exemplary Golf Bag and the Standard Golf Bag.

TABLE 1
Comparison of features in the Exemplary
Golf Bag and Standard Golf Bag

Exemplary Golf Bag	Standard Golf Bag
14 compartment divider top frame	14 compartment divider top frame
14 compartment divider sleeve	14 compartment divider sleeve
Full length divider sleeve attached	Partial length divider sleeve NOT
to support	attached to
base platform	support base platform
Pivoting platform	Stationary platform
Bent/dual angled platform	Flat platform

In both the Exemplary Golf Bag and the Standard Golf bag, 14 regions were identified by the fourteen-compartment divider top frame, which was configured as grid with fourteen slots separated by divider sleeve fabric. The Exemplary Golf Bag comprised a full-length divider sleeve that extended from the divider top to the support base, with no segment of that length devoid of divider sleeve. The full-length divider sleeve comprised fourteen compartments which were coupled to the divider top frame and the support base to form fourteen compartment open only at the top. Fourteen golf clubs were placed in each bag, one golf club through each of the fourteen divider top frame slots, such that the grips rested upon the support base platform. In the exemplary bag, one golf club was placed in each of the fourteen regions, such that each golf club was separated by the divider sleeve fabric.

Each grip end was covered in a different color paint in order to track grip shifting or movement within the bag. Both golf bags were then lifted, carried a short distance, set down and moved from an upright configuration to a deployed configuration, and then shifted back to an upright configuration. This process was done ten times to mimic a golfer playing just a few holes of a round. The support bases were then removed from the bags and the paint tracks examined in order to determine the amount of grip shifting that occurred during bag use.

The base of the Standard Golf Bag showed significantly higher amounts of grip travel, as indicated by the remaining paint along the base. The resulting movement of each golf club grip within the Standard Bag was recorded and can be seen in FIG. 26. As depicted in FIG. 26, at least eight out of the total fourteen colors (shown by patterns in greyscale in FIG. 26) overlap. This means that at some point during the test at least eight of the fourteen golf club grips occupied the same space. This displayed the potential for at least eight of the fourteen grips to interact with and become tangled with at least one other grip. The distance traveled by each grip covers a total of 80% of the surface area of the base, resulting in a very high risk of club tangle.

The movement of each golf club grip within the Exemplary Bag was recorded and can be seen in FIG. 27. As depicted in FIG. 27, none of the fourteen colors (shown by patterns in greyscale in FIG. 27) overlap. This is because the full-length divider sleeve isolated each golf club grip, preventing the golf club grips from tangling with each other and ensuring each club remained within its designated region. The distance traveled by each grip covers a total of 50% of the surface area of the support base, leaving substantially more uncovered space on the platform, showing the clubs moved over a much smaller surface area across the stand when moved to a deployed configuration. The greatly decreased the risk of club tangle.

In conclusion, the full-length divider sleeves, used in conjunction with the pivoting assembly, prevents any direct or indirect interaction between golf club grips inside the golf bag interior, thereby greatly reducing club tangle.

Example 2: Comparison of Divider Sleeve Cross-Sectional Width Variation in an Exemplary Golf Bag and a Standard Golf Bag

This example demonstrates use of the pivoting platform to alleviate shifting of the divider sleeve to prevent bunching or sagging and, therefore, club entanglement. Cross-sectional width of four regions within the Exemplary Golf Bag and the Standard Golf Bag described in Example 1 were measured in upright and deployed configurations. The cross-sectional widths were compared to show the extent to which the width distribution is altered when the bag is shifted from the upright configuration to the deployed configuration. The width distribution is defined by the percentage change in position of a shifted divider sleeve in a deployed configuration relative to a taut divider sleeve in the upright configuration.

The four regions were bound by divider sleeve compartments, as shown in the figures, forming a first compartment, a second compartment, a third compartment, and a fourth compartment. The four compartments measured were distributed evenly from front to back, such that each region comprised 25% of the front-to-back depth of the flat hollow interior when taken from a midplane cross-section, as shown in FIGS. 17A (Exemplary Golf Bag) and 18A (Standard Golf Bag). The first compartment are shown in FIGS. 17A-18B from left to right. The first compartment was positioned nearest the back of the golf bag. The second compartment was positioned immediately adjacent to the first compartment. The third compartment was positioned between the second and fourth compartments. The fourth compartment was positioned nearest to the front of the golf bag and, therefore, the leg assembly.

As shown in FIGS. 17A and 18A, the divider sleeve was taut in the upright position. In the deployed configuration, as shown in FIGS. 17B (Exemplary Golf Bag) and 18B (Standard Golf Bag), the divider sleeve became less taut. Comparing FIGS. 17B and 18B, the divider sleeve became visually less taut in the Standard Golf Bag than in the Exemplary Golf Bag.

In the Standard Golf bag, as a result of the extra slack in the divider sleeve, the first compartment increased in size as the material sags toward the direction which the bag is tilted, as shown in FIG. 18B. It can be seen in FIG. 17B that the first compartment in the Exemplary Golf Bag also increases in size, but to a much lesser degree. It was further shown that the fourth compartments in both the Standard Golf Bag and the Exemplary Golf Bag decreased in size as the divider sleeve material sags toward the flat nearest the leg assembly. The fourth compartment cross-sectional width decreased to a greater extent in the Standard Golf Bag than in the Exemplary Golf Bag. The cross-sectional widths of the four compartments were measured along the line indicated in FIGS. 17B and 18B.

The distribution of the cross-sectional widths varied from the upright configuration to the deployed configuration, thereby varying the amount of useful space for clubs positioned in compartments across the golf bag. The Standard Golf Bag experienced much greater variation in compartments positioned nearest the front and nearest the back of the golf bag because it lacked the pivot base. Specifically, the cross-sectional width of the first compartment in the Standard Golf Bag increased by 88% when shifted from the upright configuration to the deployed configuration. In contrast, the cross-sectional width of the first compartment of the Exemplary Golf Bag increased by only 52% when shifted from the upright configuration to the deployed configuration. Furthermore, the cross-sectional width of the fourth compartment of the Standard Golf Bag decreased by 48%, while the cross-sectional width of the fourth compartment of the Exemplary Golf Bag decreased by only 12%. As a result, the Standard Golf Bag in the deployed configuration demonstrated a variation of 34 percentage points across the four compartments. However, the Exemplary Golf Bag in the deployed configuration demonstrated a variation of only 16 percentage points across the four compartments.

In conclusion, the divider sleeve material remains more taut between the upright and deployed configurations in the Exemplary Golf Bag than the Standard Golf Bag, due to the pivoting platform. This resulted in the Exemplary Golf Bag having a substantially less varied distribution in cross-sectional width of divider sleeve compartments across the interior of the flat.

As the rules to golf may change from time to time (e.g., new regulations may be adopted or old rules may be eliminated or modified by golf standard organizations and/or governing bodies), golf equipment related to the methods, apparatus, and/or articles of manufacture described herein may be conforming or non-conforming to the rules of golf at any particular time. Accordingly, golf equipment related to the methods, apparatus, and/or articles of manufacture described herein may be advertised, offered for sale, and/or sold as conforming or non-conforming golf equipment. The methods, apparatus, and/or articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard.

Although a particular order of actions is described above, these actions may be performed in other temporal sequences. For example, two or more actions described above may be performed sequentially, concurrently, or simultaneously. Alternatively, two or more actions may be performed in reversed order. Further, one or more actions described above may not be performed at all. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard.

While the invention has been described in connection with various aspects, it will be understood that the invention is capable of further modifications. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses or adaptation of the invention following, in general, the principles of the invention, and including such departures from the present disclosure as come within the known and customary practice within the art to which the invention pertains.

Replacement of one or more claimed elements constitutes reconstruction and not repair. Additionally, benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described with regard to specific embodiments. The benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element or elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced, however, are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all of the claims.

Moreover, embodiments and limitations disclosed herein are not dedicated to the public under the doctrine of dedication if the embodiments and/or limitations: (1) are not expressly claimed in the claims; and (2) are or are potentially equivalents of express elements and/or limitations in the claims under the doctrine of equivalents. Various features and advantages of the disclosure are set forth in the following claims.