MODULAR RACK FOR DISC GOLF DISCS

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims foreign priority benefits under 35 U.S.C. § 119(a)-(d) to Canada Patent Application No. 3,239,572, filed May 25, 2024, which application is expressly incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

COPYRIGHT STATEMENT

All of the material in this patent document is subject to copyright protection under the copyright laws of the United States and other countries. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in official governmental records but, otherwise, all other copyright rights whatsoever are reserved.

BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

Field of the Present Invention

The present invention relates generally to disc golf holders, and, in particular, to modular racks for disc golf discs.

Background

Disc golf players have many discs they need to manage. The preferred and most accessible way to display discs is to stand them upright and front to back, like books on a shelf. The need for players to organize their discs exists at the course in a bag or pull-cart and at home on a shelf.

The common solution in a disc golf bag or pull-cart is to use a limited number of reinforced fabric dividers held in place by Velcro®. This solution creates pockets which house several discs. It is very common to have a partially full bag while playing. Particularly between shots, throwing multiple shots, losing discs, or not having enough discs to fill the pocket to start. Because of this, the discs will fall over or lean. Lacking rigidity, this style of divider fails to maintain its shape and/or position and pockets often get over or under filled with discs; neither of which is desirable. In many cases, players remove all dividers from their bag due to lack of utility.

When storing discs at home, the common solution is a rack consisting of two horizontal bars in which discs are placed upright with a singular divider at the end to prevent discs from falling over. Home disc racks have a fixed width and are sometimes vertically stackable. This solution is for bulk storage of discs and is only functional indoors.

Another known solution is to use individual rigid dividers, resembling a dish drying rack. This solution is intended for display in stores, however it would not work in a bag because the density is not high enough. In order to have individual rigid dividers, the slot needs to be wide enough to accommodate the widest disc. In addition, the dividers themselves take up a considerable amount of space. The combination of these two factors reduces the density of discs by a significant portion, limiting its use-case to display and storage only.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

Some exemplary embodiments of the present invention may overcome one or more of the above disadvantages and other disadvantages not described above, but the present invention is not required to overcome any particular disadvantage described above, and some exemplary embodiments of the present invention may not overcome any of the disadvantages described above.

The present invention includes many aspects and features. Moreover, while many aspects and features relate to, and are described in, the context of disc golf discs, the present invention is not limited to use only in disc golf, as will become apparent from the following summaries and detailed descriptions of aspects, features, and one or more embodiments of the present invention.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to one aspect relates to a modular rack for disc golf discs, including: a plurality of modules, the modules including two or more disc modules, each disc module having a base, having a front, a rear, a bottom, a top, and left and right sides, and at least one slot or groove disposed at the top of the base, each slot or groove being arranged to receive and support a single disc golf disc in an upright orientation, wherein the plurality of modules are aligned in side-by-side abutment with one another such that the fronts of the modules define a front of a modular rack and the rears of the modules define a rear of the modular rack; at least one mechanical coupling that connects the plurality of modules together in side-by-side and aligned abutment with one another, thereby forming the modular rack; wherein the modular rack receives and retains a plurality of discs in upright, side-by-side arrangement with no more than one disc in each slot or groove.

In a feature of this aspect, each module of the plurality of modules may be positioned and connected on either side of any of the other modules of the plurality of modules.

In another feature of this aspect, the plurality of modules further include one or more support modules, each having a base that has a front, a rear, a bottom, a top, and left and right sides, and wherein a plate extends upward from the top of each support module. In further features, a handle is disposed at the top of the plate of each support module; the support module is disposed at an end of the rack; the support module is disposed at an intermediate location in the rack; each support module further includes a slot or groove disposed at the top of the base thereof, the slot or groove being arranged to receive and support a single disc golf disc in an upright orientation; the at least one coupling mechanism includes a tensioned cord that extends through the plurality of modules and pulls the plurality of modules together; the base of each module, of the plurality of modules, includes a thru-hole through which the tensioned cord is routed, the thru-holes of the bases being aligned with each other when the plurality of modules are aligned in side-by-side abutment with one another; the base of each module, of the plurality of modules, further includes a cord friction hold that receives and compresses an end of the tensioned cord such that the end of the tensioned cord is held in place by friction; the cord friction hold is a side slot opening disposed at one end of the thru-hole opening and is transverse to, and an extension of, the cord-through hole; the base of each module, of the plurality of modules, includes a thru-hole at each end thereof; the base of each module, of the plurality of modules, includes two thru-holes at each end thereof; a tube is inserted through the aligned thru-holes of two or more bases, and the tensioned cord is routed through the tube; the base of each module, of the plurality of modules, includes a thru-hole through which a rod is routed, the thru-holes of the bases being aligned with each other when the plurality of modules are aligned in side-by-side abutment with one another; the at least one coupling mechanism includes a rod to which each base is clipped or otherwise fastened; and/or each base includes a mating portion of a coupler that is removably attached to a corresponding mating portion of a coupler on the base of an adjacent module.

In another feature of this aspect, a first module, of the plurality of modules, has a slot or groove having a first set of dimensional parameters; a second module, of the plurality of modules, has a slot or groove having a second set of dimensional parameters that are different than the first set of dimensional parameters; and the first and second sets of dimensional parameters are specifically adapted for different types of disc golf discs such that the first module is specifically adapted to receive and retain a first type of disc golf disc and the second module is specifically adapted to receive and retain a second type of disc golf disc.

In further features, the first and second types of disc golf discs include driver discs and midrange discs, driver discs and putter discs, or midrange discs and putter discs; the first module and the second module each include indicia representative of the type of disc golf disc for which the respective first or second module is specifically adapted to receive and retain; each slot or groove defines a groove profile that extends from the front of the base to the rear of the base; the groove profile includes a uniform width of between 12 mm and 24 mm, inclusive; the groove profile includes a uniform front-to-rear curvature having a radius of between 90 mm and 125 mm, inclusive; upper portions of side walls of the groove profile are “V”-shaped such that an angle of between 0 degrees and 90 degrees, inclusive, is defined between the side wall upper portions; and/or the groove profile includes a bottom having uniform side-to-side “U”-shaped curvature having a radius of between 1 mm and 12 mm, inclusive.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect relates to a disc golf bag containing a modular rack for disc golf discs, including: a portable bag having an interior and an exterior; and a modular rack, disposed in the interior of the portable bag, that is assembled from a plurality of disc golf disc modules connected by at least one mechanical coupling, wherein each disc module includes a base that has a front, a rear, a bottom, a top, and left and right sides, wherein each disc module includes at least one slot or groove disposed at the top of the base, wherein each slot or groove is arranged to receive and support a single disc golf disc in an upright orientation, wherein the plurality of modules are aligned in side-by-side abutment with one another such that the fronts of the modules define a front of a modular rack and the rears of the modules define a rear of the modular rack, and wherein the at least one mechanical coupling connects the plurality of modules together in side-by-side and aligned abutment with one another; wherein the modular rack receives and retains a plurality of discs in upright, side-by-side arrangement in the interior of the bag with no more than one disc in each slot or groove.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect relates to a module for supporting a disc golf disc and adapted for use with other disc golf disc modules, including: a base, having a front, a rear, a bottom, a top, and left and right sides; at least one slot or groove disposed at the top of the base, each slot or groove being arranged to receive and support a single disc golf disc in an upright orientation; and a thru-hole extending between the left side and the right side and adapted for receiving a connection element; wherein the module is adapted for alignment and connection with other disc golf disc modules, via the thru-hole and the connection element, such that the module receives and retains at least one disc golf disc in upright arrangement with no more than one disc in each slot or groove and in side-by-side arrangement with disc golf discs supported in other modules.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect relates to a method of assembling a modular rack for disc golf discs, comprising the steps of: procuring a plurality of modules, the modules including two or more disc modules, each disc module having a base, having a front, a rear, a bottom, a top, and left and right sides, and at least one slot or groove disposed at the top of the base, each slot or groove being arranged to receive and support a single disc golf disc in an upright orientation; aligning the plurality of modules in side-by-side abutment with one another such that the fronts of the modules define a front of a modular rack and the rears of the modules define a rear of the modular rack; via at least one mechanical coupling, connecting the plurality of modules together in side-by-side and aligned abutment with one another, thereby forming the modular rack; inserting a plurality of discs into the slots or grooves of the modular rack such that the discs are received and retained in an upright, side-by-side arrangement with no more than one disc in each slot or groove.

In a feature of this aspect, procuring the plurality of modules includes procuring a set of modules that includes at least two different types of disc modules. In further features, the step of procuring a set of modules includes procuring a first disc module that includes a first number of the slots or grooves and procuring a second disc module that includes a second number of the slots or grooves, the first and second numbers being different from one another; and/or the step of procuring a set of modules includes procuring a first disc module whose at least one slot or groove is adapted to receive and retain a first type of disc golf disc and procuring a second disc module whose at least one slot or groove is adapted to receive and retain a second type of disc golf disc, the first and second types of disc golf disc being different from one another.

In another feature of this aspect, procuring the plurality of modules further includes procuring a support module, each having a base that has a front, a rear, a bottom, a top, left and right sides, and a plate that extends upward from the top.

In another feature of this aspect, connecting the plurality of modules together includes applying tension to a cord that extends through the plurality of modules so as to pull the plurality of modules together. In further features, the base of each module, of the plurality of modules, includes a thru-hole through which the tensioned cord is routed, the thru-holes of the bases being aligned with each other when the plurality of modules are aligned in side-by-side abutment with one another; the base of each module, of the plurality of modules, further includes a cord friction hold that receives and compresses an end of the tensioned cord such that the end of the tensioned cord is held in place by friction; the cord friction hold is a side slot opening disposed at one end of the thru-hole opening and is transverse to, and an extension of, the cord-through hole; and/or the base of each module, of the plurality of modules, includes a thru-hole at each end thereof.

In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes a step, after connecting the plurality of modules together, of disconnecting and removing at least one of the plurality of modules. In further features, the method further includes a step, after disconnecting and removing at least one of the plurality of modules, of reconnecting the removed module in a different location in the rack; and/or a step, after disconnecting and removing at least one of the plurality of modules, of connecting a different module into the rack.

In another feature of this aspect, the aligning step includes aligning the plurality of modules in a desired sequence based on user preferences for organizing discs belonging to the user. In another feature of this aspect, the method further includes a step of installing the modular rack in a disc golf bag.

Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiment(s) of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further features, embodiments, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a backpack-style disc golf bag equipped with an exemplary modular rack and disc golf discs in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an orthogonal view of the exemplary modular rack for disc golf discs of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an orthogonal view of an exemplary set of module types used in the construction of the exemplary modular rack of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is an orthogonal view of one of the disc modules of FIG. 3, shown in isolation;

FIG. 5 is a right side view of the disc module of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a left side view of the disc module of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a rear view of the disc module of FIG. 4;

FIG. 8 is a front view of the disc module of FIG. 4;

FIG. 9 is a top view of the disc module of FIG. 4;

FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the disc module of FIG. 4;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the disc module of FIG. 4, taken along line 11-11 (showing rotational profile of semicircular groove);

FIG. 12 is an orthogonal view of a double-groove module for driver discs for use in modular racks of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is an orthogonal view of a triple-groove module for driver discs for use in modular racks of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is an orthogonal view of a single-groove module for midrange discs for use in modular racks of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is an orthogonal view of a double-groove module for midrange discs for use in modular racks of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is an orthogonal view of a triple-groove module for midrange discs for use in modular racks of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17 is an orthogonal view of a single-groove module for putter discs for use in modular racks of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is an orthogonal view of a double-groove module for putter discs for use in modular racks of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 19 is an orthogonal view of a triple-groove module for putter discs for use in modular racks of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 20A is an orthogonal view of the exemplary modular rack of FIG. 2, shown partially constructed;

FIG. 20B is an orthogonal view of the exemplary modular rack of FIG. 20A, shown with the cord pulled tight through the modules;

FIG. 20C is an orthogonal view of the exemplary modular rack of FIG. 20B, shown with the final module in place;

FIG. 20D is an orthogonal view of the exemplary modular rack of FIG. 20C, shown with the cord being locked in place;

FIG. 21 is an orthogonal view of one of the support modules of FIG. 2, shown in isolation;

FIG. 22 is a right side view of the support module of FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is an orthogonal view of another exemplary modular rack for disc golf discs in accordance with the first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 24 is a bottom orthogonal view of the exemplary modular rack of FIG. 23, shown with some of the disc modules omitted for clarity;

FIG. 25 is an orthogonal view of an exemplary modular rack for disc golf discs in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 26 is an orthogonal view of one of the disc modules of FIG. 25, shown in isolation; and

FIG. 27 is an orthogonal view of the support module and endmost disc module of FIG. 25, shown in isolation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art (“Ordinary Artisan”) that the present invention has broad utility and application. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as being “preferred” is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the present invention. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. Furthermore, an embodiment of the invention may incorporate only one or a plurality of the aspects of the invention disclosed herein; only one or a plurality of the features disclosed herein; or combination thereof. Moreover, many embodiments, including adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, are implicitly disclosed herein and fall within the scope of the present invention.

Accordingly, while the present invention is described herein in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present invention, and is made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention in any claim of a patent issuing here from, which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It is not intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention be defined by reading into any claim a limitation found herein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.

Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention is to be defined by the issued claim(s) rather than the description set forth herein.

Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refers to that which the Ordinary Artisan would understand such term to mean based on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that the meaning of a term used herein—as understood by the Ordinary Artisan based on the contextual use of such term—differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as understood by the Ordinary Artisan should prevail.

With regard solely to construction of any claim with respect to the United States, no claim element is to be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f) unless the explicit phrase “means for” or “step for” is actually used in such claim element, whereupon this statutory provision is intended to and should apply in the interpretation of such claim element. With regard to any method claim including a condition precedent step, such method requires the condition precedent to be met and the step to be performed at least once during performance of the claimed method.

Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, “a” and “an” each generally denotes “at least one,” but does not exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise. Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having an apple” describes “a picnic basket having at least one apple” as well as “a picnic basket having apples.” In contrast, reference to “a picnic basket having a single apple” describes “a picnic basket having only one apple.”

When used herein to join a list of items, “or” denotes “at least one of the items,” but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list. Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having cheese or crackers” describes “a picnic basket having cheese without crackers,” “a picnic basket having crackers without cheese,” and “a picnic basket having both cheese and crackers.” Further, when used herein to join a list of items, “and” denotes “all of the items of the list.” Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having cheese and crackers” describes “a picnic basket having cheese, wherein the picnic basket further has crackers,” as well as describes “a picnic basket having crackers, wherein the picnic basket further has cheese.”

Referring now to the drawings, in which like numerals represent like components throughout the several views, one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention are next described. The following description of one or more preferred embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its implementations, or uses.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a backpack-style disc golf bag 12 equipped with an exemplary modular rack 10 and disc golf discs 14 in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an orthogonal view of the exemplary modular rack 10 for disc golf discs 14 of FIG. 1. A modular rack such as the rack 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is constructed of at least two (and usually at least several more) disc modules 20 and, optionally, one or more support modules 40. As further discussed herein, modular racks may be constructed and customized by a user in order to fit a particular bag as desired, and the exemplary modular rack 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is simply one of a very large number of permutations that are possible using disc modules 20 as described herein. In this particular example, the rack includes a total of nine disc modules 20, of three different types, and two support modules 40, but it will be appreciated that the number of disc modules 20 and support modules 40 may be varied as desired.

In order to provide greater customization, support for different types of discs 14, and the like, the disc modules 20 utilized in the construction of a particular rack are preferably drawn from a set of different types of disc modules 20 and of different sizes. FIG. 3 is an orthogonal view of an exemplary set of module types used in the construction of the exemplary modular rack 10 of FIG. 2. Notably, although disc golf disc dimensions vary from one disc to another, the most significant differences typically occur between one type of disc and another. Thus, it has been found to be useful to include different modules 20 for different types of discs 14. It has also been found to be useful to include modules 20 accommodating different numbers of discs 14. In a non-limiting example, different modules 20 may be provided for three relatively standard types of discs 14 (commonly known as “drivers,” “midranges,” and “putters”). Of course, the number of module types provided may be greater or fewer than three. For example, different module types could be provided for “distance drivers” and “fairway drivers.”

Also in a non-limiting example, different modules 20 may be provided to accommodate one, two, or three discs 14. Optionally, a set of available module types preferably also includes at least one type of support module 40. All of these are illustrated in the exemplary set of FIG. 3, which includes a single-groove driver module 21, a double-groove driver module 22, and a triple-groove driver module 23; a single-groove midrange module 24, a double-groove midrange module 25, and a triple-groove midrange module 26; a single-groove putter module 27, a double-groove putter module 28, and a triple-groove putter module 29; and a support module 40. It will be appreciated that such modules may be made commercially available as individual modules or as part of a kit that includes, for example, two of each type of module 21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,40.

FIG. 4 is an orthogonal view of one of the disc modules of FIG. 3, shown in isolation. The particular module 20 shown in FIG. 4 is a single-groove driver module 21. Although the various disc modules 20 are each slightly different from one another, they have many similarities, and these similarities are next described with respect to the module 21 of FIG. 4 as being generally representative thereof. This representative disc module 21 is further shown in FIGS. 5-10, which are a right side, left side, rear, front, top, and bottom view, respectively, of the disc module 21 of FIG. 4. As representatively shown therein, each disc module 20 preferably includes a base 52, one or more disc slots or grooves 51, at least two cord thru-holes 53, at least two cord friction holds 54, and a label 55. The disc groove 51 receives a disc 14 and retains it in a generally upright (although not necessarily perfectly vertical) position. In at least some embodiments, all of the disc grooves 51 in a particular disc module share a common groove profile, but it will be appreciated that additionally or alternatively, a disc module (not shown) could include disc grooves of different profiles. The base 52 is adapted to maintain a stable upright position when placed on a surface and provides support for the disc grooves 51, and thus the discs 14 contained therein. As discussed below, the cord thru-holes 53 and cord friction holds 54 enable the use of a cord 56 to align and mechanically connect rack modules together, and the label 55 is used to identify the module type. Of course, in various embodiments, one or more of these elements (such as the label 55) may be omitted without departing from the scope of the present invention. Each of these elements is described further hereinbelow.

The base 52 forms the main body of each module 20 and supports the other elements. The base 52 includes a front 91, a rear 92, a left side 93, a right side 94, a top 95, and a bottom 96. The front 91 and rear 92 are preferably angled inward at their lower ends so as to minimize space occupied and material required for their construction. In at least some embodiments, the base 52 is relatively uniform from one disc module 20 to the others except for with respect to the width thereof. First, in at least some embodiments, the width of a single-groove module may vary slightly from one module type to another so as to minimize wasted space and material. Second, the width of a double-groove module, regardless of type, is approximately (and in at least some embodiments, exactly) two times the width of the single-groove module of the same type, and the width of a triple-groove module, regardless of type, is approximately (and in at least some embodiments, exactly) three times the width of the single-groove module of the same type. Otherwise, the base 52 of each disc module 20 is essentially the same. The length for each module 20 is preferably the same so that when assembled as shown, for example, in FIG. 2, the ends of the modules 20 are all aligned with each other. Furthermore, lowermost portions of the base 52 are preferably co-planar so as ensure stability when placed on a flat surface and to ensure uniformity in an assembled rack. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the lowermost portions include a segment 81 near each end as well as an intermediate portion 82. Still further, the disposition of the cord thru-holes 53 on each module is preferably the same, the disposition of the labels 55 on each module is the same, the shape of the bottom is the same, and the like.

Each base 52 includes one or more disc grooves 51 on or at the top thereof. Each disc groove 51 defines a groove profile that is designed to receive a single disc 14. In this regard, FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the disc module 21 of FIG. 4, taken along line 11-11, illustrating substantial portions of the groove profile of the disc module 21 of FIG. 4. As noted previously, discs are available with a variety of dimension. However, it has been found that providing specific groove profiles for every possible disc design is of insufficient benefit to justify the cost and complications inherent therein. Instead, most disc golf discs can be sufficiently accommodated using one of a plurality of generalized groove profiles. Using these generalized groove profiles, players can select profiles which match their discs with enough accuracy to reliably hold the discs but without losing density in their assembled rack.

To define the groove profiles, typical disc geometries were used as a guideline. Four primary characteristics in defining a groove profile are disc width, disc outer diameter, camber of the disc, and disc nose radius. The groove profile width, which is related to the disc width, ranges from 12 mm to 24 mm. The outer radius of curvature of the groove profile, which is related to the outer diameter of the disc, ranges from 90 mm-125 mm. The ‘V’ groove angle created by the two side walls 58, which is related to the camber of a disc, ranges from 0°-90° inclusive angle. If a steep angle is used for the ‘V’ groove, the height of the profile extends to an undesirable level. The upper radius 57 of the groove profile is used to limit the overall height of the groove profile. The nose radius 59 of the groove profile, which is related to the nose radius of a disc, ranges from 1 mm to 12 mm. Although the nose radius 59 can also influence the height of a groove profile, the core function of this parameter is to match that of the disc. This highlights the importance of the upper radius 57. These characteristics define the parameters and bounds used in creating groove profiles. The variety of groove profiles created allows the assembled rack to maintain a reliable vertical hold on each individual disc type without the use of dividers while still achieving a high storage density that is only slightly less than simply storing discs without any sort of rack or dividers.

As noted previously, the disc module 21 of FIG. 4 is for a single driver disc, and thus the groove profile of FIG. 11 is for a driver disc. It will be appreciated, however, that the putter and midrange groove profiles are based on the same principles, but use appropriate values related to that particular disc type.

By varying the number of grooves 51 (from one to three, or even more if desired) and the type of groove profile for the grooves, a set of modules 20 may be provided that are well-equipped for handling the vast majority of available disc golf discs and for allowing users to customize a modular rack 10 that best meets their needs. In addition to the single-groove driver module 21 of FIG. 4, these may include the disc modules of FIGS. 12-19, which are orthogonal views of a double-groove driver module 22, a triple-groove module 23, a single-groove midrange module 24, a double-groove midrange module 25, a triple-groove midrange module 26, a single-groove putter module 27, a double-groove putter module 28, and a triple-groove putter module 29, respectively, for use in modular racks of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention. Notably, each module's type (driver, midrange, putter, and the like) is indicated by the label 55, which is preferably applied or integrated into each module 20. In at least some embodiments, one instance of the label 55 is disposed on the left side of the module 20 and another instance of the label is disposed on the right side of the module 20, but additional or alternative label dispositions may likewise be utilized.

As noted previously, the cord thru-holes 53 and cord friction holds 54 enable the use of a cord 56 to align and mechanically connect rack modules together. Each cord thru-hole 53 penetrates through the base 52 of the module 20 such that the cord 56 may be routed therethrough. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of cord thru-holes 53 are located at each end of the base 52 to improve case of use. However, other arrangements are possible. In one alternative arrangement (an example of which is illustrated herein), only one cord thru-hole is located at each end of the base. In another alternative arrangement (not illustrated) each base includes only a single cord thru-hole, which may, for example, be disposed at or near the middle of the base. In some such arrangements, the base may be provided with one or more structures to help fit the modules together, but where a cord 56 provides the necessary tension to hold the modules together.

In at least some embodiments, the cord thru-holes 53 are cylindrical and of slightly larger diameter that the cord 56 such that it is easy for a user to insert the cord 56 into and through the holes 53 when assembling a rack, and to tighten the cord 56 as desired. However, some variation is possible without departing from the scope of the present invention. As noted previously, the disposition of the cord thru-holes 53 is preferably the same in the base 52 of each module 20 such that the holes 53 at each end thereof are aligned with the respective holes 53 in the adjacent modules 20. Each cord friction hold 54 comprises a side slot opening that is disposed at one end of a respective cord thru-hole 53 and is transverse to, and an extension of, the cord thru-hole 53 such that the cord 56 may be routed into the opposite end of the cord thru-hole 53 and then pulled to the side and out through the cord friction hold 54 instead of being routed all the way through the cord thru-hole 53. The slot opening forming the cord friction hold 54 has a width that less the cord 56 itself (and thus considerably less than the diameter of the cord thru-hole 53) such that once forced therethrough, the cord 56 is compressed and held in place by friction.

To align and mechanically connect multiple modules 20 into one assembly, the modules 20 are aligned the cord 56 is strung horizontally through all of the modules 20 using the thru-holes 53 on each side of the module bases 52. In this regard, FIG. 20A is an orthogonal view of the exemplary modular rack 10 of FIG. 2, shown partially constructed; FIG. 20B is an orthogonal view of the exemplary modular rack 10 of FIG. 20A, shown with the cord 56 pulled tight through the modules 20; FIG. 20C is an orthogonal view of the exemplary modular rack 10 of FIG. 20B, shown with the final module 29 in place; and FIG. 20D is an orthogonal view of the exemplary modular rack 10 of FIG. 20C, shown with the cord being locked in place. The cord 56 is strung through one side of the assembled rack base, around the back, and up through the other side, creating a ‘U’ shape with the cord as shown in FIG. 20A. Tension is then applied to the assembly by pulling the ends of the cord 56 tightly as shown in FIG. 20B, thereby forcing the various modules 20 tightly against one another. Once the final module 20 is in place, as shown in FIG. 20C, the tension may then be maintained by pulling the ends of the cord 56 laterally outward, as shown in FIG. 20D, which naturally forced the cord 56 to fall into the slots of the friction holds 54 connected to the thru holes 53 on each side of the endmost module. The friction holds 54 compress the ends of the cord 56 apply enough friction to hold the modules 20 together, thereby forming the rack 10. Furthermore, to help ensure the tension is not released, and also to store the excess cord 56, the cord ends may then be fed into the adjacent second thru-holes 53 on either side of the rack 10 and secured using the corresponding friction hold slots 54. The result is the rack 10 shown in FIG. 2.

In at least some embodiments, the cord friction holds 54 are disposed adjacent one side or the other of each module 20, but not both. In such embodiments, care must be taken to ensure the final module 20 (in FIGS. 2, 20C, and 20D, the triple-groove putter module 29 at the far right) is installed so that the cord friction holds 54 are located at the very end of the rack, rather than facing toward the previous module, to that they are available for use in properly lacing and locking the cord 56 in place. Notably, because the friction holds 54 are located on the front and back faces of each module 20, and thus of the finished rack itself, the cord 56 does not extend beyond the sides of the rack, which has the benefit of maximizing the overall width of the rack (because no space is required at the ends for the cord 56). This placement also avoids accidental release of the cord 56 due to accidental rubbing against a neighbouring wall of the bag 12 or the like.

The friction holds 54 may be released by manipulating the exposed cord loops 83, shown in FIG. 2, by pushing them toward the end of the rack 10 and out of the friction holds 54, thereby removing the tension from the cord 56.

As noted previously, the rack 10 of FIG. 2 also includes two support modules 40. In this regard, FIG. 21 is an orthogonal view of one of the support modules 40 of FIG. 2, shown in isolation, and FIG. 22 is a right side view of the support module 40 of FIG. 21. Support modules 40 may serve a variety of functions, including serving as dividers between different groups of discs 14, serving as end walls for a rack, serving as handles for a rack, preventing a bag 12 from collapsing on an empty or partially-empty rack, and/or the like. In the illustrated embodiment, each support module 40 preferably includes a base 42, at least two cord thru-holes 43, at least two cord friction holds 44, a support plate 46, and a handle 47. The base 42 forms the main body of each support module 40 and supports the other elements. In at least some embodiments, the base 42 has a similar footprint, when viewed from one side or the other, to the bases 22 of the various disc modules 20. As with the disc module bases 22, lowermost portions of the support module base 42 are preferably co-planar so as to ensure stability in an assembled rack. The cord thru-holes 43 and cord friction holds 44 provide functionality somewhat similar to the cord thru-holes 53 and cord friction holds 54 of the disc modules 20, but in the illustrated embodiment, the width of the support module 40 is minimized so as to improve disc storage density, and thus the cord friction holds 44 have a different shape (semicircular), location (on the bottom of the base 42) and orientation (side-to-side rather than opening to the front or back, like those of the disc modules 20). Notably, when installed in a module rack, the cord thru-holes 43 are aligned with the cord thru-holes 53 of the various disc modules 20 in the rack.

The support plate 46 and handle 47 provide most of the functionality of the support module 40. The support plate 46 creates a physical barrier as well as providing support for, or being integral with, the handle 47. In at least some embodiments, the support plate extends upward from the top of the support module 40 for a distance that is at least approximately as much as the radius of a disc 14 (or the radius of curvature of the grooves of the disc modules 20). The support plate 46 and handle 47 can be used in a variety of ways. In the rack 10 of FIG. 2, one support module 40 has been included to separate the driver modules 21,22,23 from the midrange modules 24,25,26, while another support module 40 has been included to separate the midrange modules 24,25,26 from the putter modules 27,28,29. In addition to serving the function of visually and physically separating different types of modules 20, the two support modules 40 of FIG. 2 (which may be considered “intermediate” support modules because they are disposed at an intermediate location in the rack, in between various disc modules 40) may also help prevent discs 14 from shifting around unnecessarily. However, it will be appreciated that a modular rack may be constructed without any support modules at all. Furthermore, if used, support modules 40 may additionally or alternatively be disposed at one or both ends of a rack. In this regard, FIG. 23 is an orthogonal view of another exemplary modular rack 110 for disc golf discs 14 in accordance with the first preferred embodiment of the present invention. In the rack 110 of FIG. 23, a support module 40 has been arranged at each end thereof. Such a configuration provides a rigid wall on cither end of a rack and may be particularly useful when an unconventional bag (such as a grocery bag or a regular backpack) is utilized as a disc golf bag, or when using the rack on a shelf at home. When using the rack in an unconventional bag, the support modules 40 help keep the unconventional bag open, so as to not collapse the bag into the disc carrying space of the rack 110. Furthermore, in this configuration, the support modules 40 provide handles with which one can easily pick up the whole rack 110 and move it from one place to another.

When locating the support modules 40 at the ends of a rack, such as the rack 110 of FIG. 23, the stringing method used to fasten the rack 110 together differs slightly from that described in FIGS. 20A-20D. In this regard, FIG. 24 is a bottom orthogonal view of the exemplary modular rack 110 of FIG. 23, shown with some of the disc modules 20 omitted for clarity. As shown therein, the cord 56 is passed through aligned thru-holes 53 of the various disc modules 20 and then through the corresponding thru-holes 43 on the support module 40. Each end of the cord 56 is then routed down toward one of the friction holds 44 and looped around and back through an adjacent friction hold 44. From there, any remaining cord 56 can be fed through the second thru-hole 43. This method provides similar functionality to that provided by the thru-holes 53 and friction holds 54 of the disc modules 20, using friction, applied by the friction holds 44, to hold the rack 110 together.

Disc modules and support modules may be implemented in a variety of ways. For example, FIG. 25 is an orthogonal view of an exemplary modular rack 210 for disc golf discs 14 in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention. Like the racks 10,110 of FIGS. 2 and 23, this rack 210 utilizes disc modules and support modules. In this regard, FIG. 26 is an orthogonal view of one of the disc modules 220 of FIG. 25, shown in isolation, and FIG. 27 is an orthogonal view of the support module 240 and endmost disc module 220 of FIG. 25, shown in isolation. The disc modules 220 are similar in many respects to the disc modules 20 previously described, including use of a disc slot or groove 251 with a groove profile that may be customized for particular types or sizes of discs 14, but utilize a somewhat different base 252 and only a single cord thru-hole 253 at each end. However, the disc modules 220 include two cord friction-holds 254 at each end, and application of the cord lock is generally similar to that of the previous racks 10,110. The support modules 240, on the other hand, are something of a hybrid of the disc modules 220 and the support module 40 of the previous racks 10,110. Like the disc module 220, the support module 240 includes a disc groove 251 supported by a base 252, wherein the base 252 includes a cord thru-hole 253 and two cord friction-holds 254 at each end. Like the other support module 40, however, the support module 240 of FIG. 27 includes a support plate 246 and a handle 247, thereby providing much of the functionality of the previously-described support module 40.

In at least some methods of use, a user may purchase or otherwise acquire a set of disc modules. In some methods, the user may also purchase or otherwise acquire one or more support modules. In at least some methods, disc modules and support modules are offered commercially as kits, as individual modules, or both. In some methods, the user may begin laying out acquired modules in a desired storage or use location in order to determine various rack design parameters before actually assembling the rack. Such design parameters may include, without limitation: a best arrangement of modules, including location/sequence of disc modules; whether there is a need for support modules as dividers, handles, or both; sizing requirements (particularly width) for the rack, and the like. In at least some of these embodiments, the “laid out” arrangement may then be rearranged, separated, removed, or the like as necessary or desired before actually assembling the various modules into the finished rack. For example, if a cord lock mechanism is utilized, the rack may be designed by first laying out the modules and then separating or otherwise manipulating them to install the cord as described herein. Furthermore, in at least some embodiments, a fully-assembled rack may be partially or fully disassembled to remove a module, add a module, or both, before reassembling. In short, contemplated methods involve the customization of the rack as desired, and even re-customization as desired, in order to produce a modular rack that fits the user's exact needs and preferences.

In at least some contemplated commercial embodiments, the modules may be constructed of PETG plastic. PETG plastic is a variation of PET plastic used for fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing. It holds very similar properties to PET making it a great option for functional 3D printed parts. PET plastic is tough, making it impact resistant, temperature resistant up to 70 degrees Celsius, and UV resistant. These properties make it a suitable choice for outdoor products. When using the disclosed embodiment on the course in a bag or pull-cart, weight is an important factor. PETG provides a good strength to weight ratio. This material has proven to be durable, light weight, and heat resistant enough to withstand the worst case environments the disclosed embodiment is exposed to.

PETG was selected for at least some embodiments on the basis of case of use, cost, and availability. However, it will be appreciated that if the modules and resulting racks are to be utilized indoors, some of these advantages may be of less importance. In various embodiments, a lesser grade of plastic or various other materials may be utilized, including without limitation, high density foam, wood, ABS plastic, PVC plastic, PLA+ plastic, ASA plastic, an aluminum alloy, another metal, and the like.

In at least some contemplated commercial embodiments, the modules may be manufactured using FMD 3D printing. 3D printing allows for highly complex geometries to be produced at an affordable cost. Even in high volumes, FDM provides a reliable and affordable solution to manufacturing. However, it will be appreciated that a variety of manufacturing processes may be utilized, including, without limitation, injection molding, vacuum forming, blow moulding, metal stamping, and the like. Some of these methods would prove to be advantageous in terms of weight, mechanical properties, and production volume however the capital investment required is significantly higher.

The particular architecture of the disc modules and support modules may be selected based on manufacturing factors and constraints. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 25, less material is required, and lighter weights may be achieved, but production reliability for some groove profiles may be more difficult to achieve when compared to the embodiment of FIG. 2.

It will be appreciated that some variation in the use of cords 56 is possible without departing from the scope of the present invention. In some embodiments, one cord may be utilized through holes in the front of each base and a second cord may be utilized through holes in the rear of each base. In some embodiments, one or both ends of a cord may be held in place using a knot. In some embodiments, cord may be wound one or more times around a suitable structure on the module, thereby applying friction thereto. In some embodiments, a separate cord lock mechanism, of any of numerous known types (such as spring-biased types) may be utilized to tension the end of a cord.

Furthermore, it will be appreciated that other structures, mechanisms, and methods may be utilized for connecting modules together. In some embodiments, short metal tubes can be used as couplers between modules. In some of these embodiments, the metal tubes are inserted into base thru holes 53, aligning the rack with more accuracy and increasing the rigidity of the rack. When the tube couplers are installed, the cord is still strung through and locked in place using the friction holds 54 as described previously. This variation may be particularly useful for long-spanning racks and poorly supported bags.

In other embodiments, couplers may be used, rather than cords, as a means of mechanically connecting the components all together. In one example, couplers akin to K'NEX® couplers could clip in on each side of a module. In another example, an external clip could be utilized.

In other embodiments, a rod may be used to replace the cord, holding the rack together with a fastener on either end of the rod. In some such embodiments, thru-holes are provided, but with only one thru-hole at each end of each module. In other embodiments, modules clip onto a horizontal rod or bar for easy customization. Such variations may be particularly useful when designing bags and carts with the disclosed embodiment built into the design, rather than being installed by the user.

As noted previously, the discs 14 are supported in a generally upright orientation, but do not necessarily need to be vertical. As used herein, “upright” should be understood to encompass a range of at least 15 degrees to either side of vertical. However, in some embodiments, discs are supported and displayed at an angle, rather than generally vertically. With the discs at an angle, the rims of the disc may be more visible, may allow for a more aesthetically pleasing display, and may provide easier access to discs. For such variations, the base and/or groove could be modified.

In some embodiments, the front face of each module, and thus the rack, is shorter than the rear faces. Such embodiments may be customized to fit a particular use case of loading and unloading discs from the front face, like in a bag or pull-cart, and may allow for easier access for front facing bags or carts while increasing the hold on the discs 14.

In an effort to simplify the design to make it more appropriate for an injection moulding process the following changes could be made and still maintain similar utility. To allow for a simple moulding process, the apex of the groove profile periods is shifted by 180 degrees, creating a spike instead of a groove. Using this new profile, the slots are created by connecting two or more modules together. In such embodiments, the groove profile cross-section shown in FIG. 11 would not be uniform along the entire groove, but would only be present at as few as three points on the arc segment, such as the two ends and in the middle. In this variation there could be only single-slot modules for each profile type. The base may also be simplified to reduce the amount of plastic being used in a molding process by limiting the base to two legs per side, connecting at the top and middle of the slot. This reduction in weight, raw materials and increase in manufacturability are all very advantageous for large scale production.

Based on the foregoing information, it will be readily understood by those persons skilled in the art that the present invention is susceptible of broad utility and application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the present invention other than those specifically described herein, as well as many variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the present invention and the foregoing descriptions thereof, without departing from the substance or scope of the present invention.

Accordingly, while the present invention has been described herein in detail in relation to one or more preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary of the present invention and is made merely for the purpose of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosure is not intended to be construed to limit the present invention or otherwise exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications or equivalent arrangements; the present invention being limited only by the claim(s) appended hereto and the equivalents thereof.