Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a system for marking a golf hole, comprising a flagstick and a ferrule adapted to receive and hold the flagstick. The ferrule comprises a bottom portion adapted to be positioned in a hole cup of the golf hole and a top portion adapted to receive a bottom end of the flagstick. A disc-shaped piece is arranged on the top portion of the ferrule.

The present invention also relates to a ferrule for use in such a system.

Background of the Invention

It is known to mark the location of a golf hole (or simply a hole) with a flag stick (or simply a stick), which has a pennant or a flag at its top end. Normally the flag stick is guided into the middle of the hole with the aid of a hole cup. The hole cup is positioned inside the golf hole at a distance from the surrounding green surface. Various solutions for guiding the flagstick correctly into the position on the hole cup have been presented, such as use of a guide pin placed on the hole cup as described in US 3790166 A.

It is further known that the bottom end of the flagstick can be attached to a ferrule. The ferrule has a bottom portion for placement inside a central hole on the hole cup. The ferrule further has a top portion with a hole for receiving and holding the bottom end of the flagstick.

According to the Rules of golf the players can decide to leave the flagstick standing in the hole cup during play. The hole must be 108mm in diameter and at least 101.6mm deep. A hole cup (or lining) must be placed at least 25.4mm below the green surface unless the soil conditions require it to be placed closer to the green surface. The edges of the hole can easily be ruined when the golf ball is removed from the hole, while the flagstick is in place. For example, there might not enough room left for both the flagstick, the player’s hand, and the golf ball. Also, removing or inserting the flagstick may cause further damages to the edges of the golf hole and/or the green surface if the flagstick is not aligned with the centre of the hole in the hole cup, or is removed or inserted at an angle. According to the Rules of golf the players can also decide to remove the flagstick before playing, which can cause damage to the green surface when placing it on the green surface.

WO 2020/239182 Al from the applicant discloses a ferrule with openings arranged in the top portion of the ferrule, which are adapted to receive and hold an elastic disc element. The disc element is replaceable. The disc element is positioned on the ferrule so that it rests on the top surface of the hole cup, when installed.

US 6939239 Bl describes a system for marking a golf hole, comprising a flagstick with a ferrule mounted thereon, a hole cup with a centre hole arranged in the lower portion, and a disc-shaped element secured to the flag stick by a screw. The ferrule has a large bottom portion shaped to correspond to the shape of the centre hole in the hole cup. The disc element is positioned at a distance from the small top portion of the ferrule and at the same time at a further distance from the top surface of the hole cup. The disc element has an outer diameter, which is less than the inner diameter of the hole cup, thus allowing the flag stick to bend with the wind without hitting the edge of the golf hole. The disc element has a cup-shaped profile facing downwards so the golf ball is guided into contact with the inner surface of the hole cup.

One shortcoming of this system is that the disc element over time will lose its clamping force against the flagstick due to wear. Moreover, the ferrule needs to be removed before mounting the disc element, unless the disc-element is made of several sub-pieces. To prevent the flagstick from striking the edge of the hole, it is necessary to make the disc element from a relatively rigid material or increase the thickness of the disc element. This increases the risk of damaging the golf hole, or the edge thereof, during removal or insertion of the flagstick. Further, the relative stiff disc element may damage the green surface when the flagstick is placed on the green surface.

US 2684245 A discloses a disc-shaped element attached to the flagstick by means of screws. The ferrule further comprises a cup shaped element that is spring loaded relative to the disc element, where a small ferrule is located at the bottom of the cup element. When inserted into the golf hole, the disc element is pressed into the cup element so their respective top edges are aligned with the green surface. When removed from the golf hole, the spring presses the disc element out of the cup element. This solution is not in compliance with the Equipment rules defined by the R&A or the USGA.

US 2008/0171609 Al discloses a ferrule attached to the flagstick, where a thin, stiff disc-shaped element projects from the side surface of the ferrule. The disc element is cup-shaped and has a bottom surface facing a top surface of the hole cup. The acute angle of this bottom surface is greater than the acute angle of the top surface of the hole cup seen in the axial direction so that the two surfaces are only contacting each other in the outermost surface area adjacent to the upper edge of the top surface of the hole cup. Both acute angles are measured relative to the centre axis of the flagstick. In this solution, the disc element is located below the upper edge of the top surface of the hole cup.

US 2009/0280919 Al discloses a putting practicing device with a thick, stiff discshaped element projecting from the side surface of the ferrule. The ferrule is attached to the bottom end of a tee-shaped element extending beyond the green surface. The disc element has a bottom surface facing a top surface of the hole cup, where the two surfaces are aligned parallel in an acute direction so that they contact each other along the entire surface area between the side wall and the centre hole of the hole cup. This solution is not intended to be used during the play, but instead during practice. Further, this design is likely to cause damage the edges of the hole during removal of the golf balls or the device itself.

US 3348797 A discloses a system comprising a flag stick with a ferrule attached to one end, where the ferrule is shaped to be inserted into a central hole in a hole cup. The ferrule comprises a replaceable, deformable ring arranged at the bottom end. The ring is deformed by screwing the bolt further into engagement with the ferrule. The ring is deformed to contact the side surface of the hole cup to hold the flag stick securely in the hole cup. The golf ball must be manually removed from the golf hole, as the flag stick does not comprise a cup for catching the golf ball.

US 2020/0398117 Al discloses a separate cup-shape element, which can be adjusted in height on the flagstick and attached to the flagstick by a hose clamp or an adhesive connection. An adapter may be used to adjust the height of the cup element. Alternatively, the ferrule may be attached to a ball receiver having a lower cylindrical stem and an upper disc-shaped top using a threaded connection. A locking screw is used to lock the ferrule and the cup or ball receiver relative to each other. Over time, the locking screw may become loose and fall out, thus causing the ball receiver and ferrule to rotate out of engagement.

US 2021/0121751 Al discloses a flagstick with a ferrule having a cone-shaped top portion. A two-piece clamp connection is arranged on the flag stick above the ferrule and clamped together to hold it in a desired height. A disc-element with receiving slots is positioned on top of the clamp connection, and rotated around the flagstick until projecting pins on the clamp connection are engaging the slots on the disc element. Over time, the clamp connection may lose its clamping force and slide out of position relative to the ferrule. Further, the disc element may rotate out of engagement when the flagstick is removed or inserted or placed on the green surface. Dirt or other particles may accumulate in the slots, thus preventing the pins from properly engaging the slots.

Thus, there is a need for an improved solution for reducing the risk of damaging the golf hole and/or the green surface.

Object of the Invention

An object of the invention is to provide a system and a ferrule that overcomes the problems of the state of art, or at least provide a system and ferrule with an alternative design.

An object of the invention is to provide a system and a ferrule that allows for an easier positioning of the flagstick without damaging the golf hole.

An object of the invention is to provide a system and a ferrule that allows for an easier removal of the golfball from the golf hole.

An object of the invention is to allow an easy adaption of existing systems and ferrules.

Description of the Invention

One object of the invention is achieved by a system for marking a golf hole according to claim 1, comprising a hole cup, a flagstick and a ferrule, the hole cup being adapted to be positioned in a golf hole of a green surface, the flagstick extending in an axial direction, and the ferrule comprising a bottom portion adapted to be positioned in a hole in the hole cup and a top portion adapted to receive a bottom end of the flagstick, wherein a disc-shaped element projects outwards from a side surface of the top portion of the ferrule in a substantially radial direction, the disc-shaped element having a local top surface and a local bottom surface, and the hole cup having a top surface in which the hole is arranged, wherein the disc-shaped element, when installed, is positioned at a first distance, Di, from the green surface, where the top portion and the bottom portion are shaped as a single continuous piece, where the top portion projects outwards from the top surface of the hole cup towards the green surface in the axial direction.

This provides an improved system for marking a golf hole, which is easy to use and allows for easy removal of golfballs. The present system is easy to produce and install, thus saving time and costs. The present system is versatile and may be installed in existing as well new golf holes and may be used with hole cups and/or flagsticks from different manufactures.

The flagstick may be made of wood, metal, plastics, or composite materials, which attractive in terms of price, weight, and processing ability. The length of the flagstick may be at least Im, preferably between 2m and 3m. The upper end of the flagstick may be provided with a flag or sticker. Optionally, one or more reflectors may further be arranged on the flagstick. This allows the flagstick and thus the golf hole to be seen from a very far distance. This also makes it easy to retrieve the golfball, as the player simply removes the flagstick from the hole cup and the disc element pushes the golfball out of the golf hole.

The present ferrule is configured as a single, continuous piece where the top and bottom pieces form integrated parts of the ferrule. This allows for a faster and cheaper production. The total length of the present ferrule is extended so that a larger portion of the ferrule projects from the top surface of the hole cup. The dimensions and shape of the respective top and bottom portions may be adapted to fit existing hole cups and/or flagstick systems. This allows the present ferrule to raise the top surface of the disc element relative to the top surface of the hole cup, thus allowing for easily retrieval of the golf ball. In one embodiment, the disc-shaped element, when installed, is further positioned at a distance, D2, from the top surface of the hole cup so that the disc-shaped element is free loading in an unloaded condition.

The top portion may be extended in the axial direction so that the disc shaped element, or mounting position thereof, may be raised relative to the top surface of the hole cup. This allows the disc element to float freely in the golf hole in an unloaded condition. This also allows for the use of relative thin disc elements which may be positioned above the top surface, as described later.

In one embodiment, a lower edge of the disc-shaped element is positioned above an upper edge of the top surface of the hole cup.

The hole cup may comprise an outer side wall extending in the axial direction from a top end to a bottom end, and a bottom piece forming the top surface in which a hole for receiving and holding the bottom portion of the ferrule is arranged. Preferably, the hole may be a central hole. Alternatively or additionally, one or more holes or slots may be provided between the central axis of the hole cup and the outermost edge of the top surface. Each of these holes or slots may be adapted to receive and hold a corresponding pin or rib of the bottom portion of the ferrule.

The top surface of the bottom piece may be arranged perpendicular to the axial direction so that the innermost and outermost edges thereof may be arranged in the same radial plane. Preferably, the top surface may be conically shaped in the axial direction, so the innermost edge may form a lower edge facing the bottom of the hole cup and the outermost edge may form an upper edge facing the top of the hole cup. This guides the ferrule into the receiving hole of the hole cup when inserting the flagstick into the golf hole.

The present ferrule may enable the disc element to be positioned partly or fully above the upper/outermost edge of the top surface of the hole cup. The lower edge of the disc element may be arranged between the upper and lower edges of the top surface. Alternatively, the lower edge of the disc element may be arranged above the upper/outermost edge of the top surface. This allows the disc element to be spaced apart from the top surface of the hole cup, thus raising the golf ball towards the green surface for easy retrieval.

The top surface of the hole cup may comprise one or more cut-outs for enabling rainwater and debris to fall down into the bottom of the golf hole. Further, the bottom piece may form a hollow structure for lowering weight and costs.

The bottom piece may be integrated with the side walls to form a single piece, or they may be provided as separate sub-elements that are assembled into the final structure. The hole cup and/or the bottom piece may be made of the same material or different materials, such as aluminium, plastics, composite materials, or any other suitable material,

In one embodiment, the ferrule further comprises an adapter element configured to be positioned relative to the top portion, wherein the second distance D2 is determined by the adapter element alone or in combination with the top portion.

The ferrule may also comprise an adapter element configured to be positioned relative to the top portion, as described later. The adapter element may determine the second distance D2 between the top surface and the disc element, either alone or in combination with the top portion. The adapter element may comprise a central through hole in which the top portion of the ferrule may be positioned. The adapter element may contact the hole cup and optionally the disc element depending on the configuration. This allows the ferrule and disc element to be positioned in a fixed or adjustable position relative to the hole cup.

The side surface of the top portion of the ferrule may comprise external threads adapted to engage internal threads on the adapter element. The axial position of the adapter element relative to the top portion may be fixed by use of a locking screw or the like. Alternatively, the side surface may comprise one or more circumferential grooves adapted to engage one or more corresponding ribs on the adapter elements, or vice versa. The position of the adapter element may thus be adjusted axially relative to the top portion of the ferrule by moving the ribs and groove into engagement. Thereby allows for an adjustment of the second distance D2 between the disc element and the hole cup. In one embodiment, the first distance Di is measured between the green surface and an upper edge of the disc-shaped element or the top portion, the first distance Di being at least 76.2 mm.

The disc element may form a lower edge facing the bottom piece of the hole cup and an upper edge facing the green surface. Preferably, an outermost edge may form the upper edge and an innermost edge of the disc element may form the lower edge. Further, the top potion of the ferrule may form another upper edge, optionally aligned with the upper edge of the disc element.

The present ferrule enables the disc element to be raised towards the green surface so the upper edge of the disc element or top portion may be positioned at a first distance Di from the green surface. Preferably, the upper edge may be positioned at least 76.2 mm from the green surface. This allows the disc element to be positioned at a minimum allowable distance from the green surface in compliance with the Equipment rules.

In one embodiment, the second distance D2 is measured between an edge of the top surface and a lower edge of the disc-shaped element, the second distance D2 being at least 5 mm.

The present ferrule also enables disc element to be raised relative to the top surface of the hole cup. Preferably, the disc element may be raised so that it is free floating in an unloaded condition as well as in a load condition. The disc element may be raised so that the lower edge of the disc element may be positioned at a second distance D2 from the lower or upper edge of the hole cup. The lower edge of the disc element may be positioned at least 5 mm from the upper or lower edge of the hole cup. Preferably, the second distance D2 may be at least 10mm. This allows for the use of relative thin disc elements which can be raised to the minimum allowable position.

In one embodiment, the ferrule, the disc-shaped element or the adapter element further comprises a shoulder with a contact surface adapted to contact the top surface of the hole cup, when installed, the shoulder having a local diameter greater than a local diameter of the hole. The ferrule may comprise one or more shoulders having a local diameter greater than the local diameter of the hole of the hole cup. The shoulder(s) may project from a side surface of the ferrule and form a local contact surface adapted to contact the top surface of the hole cup. Preferably, the shoulder may be shaped to substantially follow the transition between the hole and top surface of the hole cup. This allows only the ferrule to rest on the top surface, when inserted into the hole cup, unlike some conventional systems where the disc element rests on the top surface.

The shoulder may be formed as individual shoulders or as a continuous shoulder along the circumference of the ferrule.

Alternatively, the above shoulder may be formed by the disc element. This allows only the disc element to rest on the top surface, when inserted into the hole cup, unlike some conventional systems where the ferrule rests on the top surface.

The shoulder may have a bevelled profile shaped to substantially correspond to the transition between the hole and the top surface. The shoulder may thus be integrated into or attached to the ferrule. This allows the ferrule to be correctly guided into the hole cup so that the flagstick is positioned vertically in the golf hole.

In one embodiment, the bottom portion comprises at least one groove arranged at a local side surface, the at least one groove is shaped to receive and hold an elastic element for contacting a side surface of the hole of the hole cup, when installed.

The ferrule may comprise one or more grooves arranged on the side surface of the bottom portion, adapted to receive and hold one or more elastic elements. The elastic elements) may deform when contacting the side surface of the hole of the hole cup. Preferably, at least two grooves may be arranged on the side surface of the bottom portion. This allows rainwater and debris to be pushed into the bottom of the golf hole as well as aligning the ferrule in the hole cup.

The elastic element may be shaped as a ring-shaped element, e.g., an O-ring, and may be made from rubber, silicone, or another elastic deformable material. In one embodiment, the disc-shaped element is integrated into the top portion or fixed relative to the side surface of the top portion.

The disc element may be integrated into the top portion of the ferrule to form a continuous piece. The entire ferrule, or only the top portion thereof, may thus be replaced if the disc element is damaged or worn out. Alternatively, the disc element may be attached to the side surface of top portion of the ferrule, as described later. This allows the disc element to be fixed in a position on the side surface of the ferrule.

An object of the present invention also achieved by a ferrule according to claim 10 for use in a system as described above, the ferrule comprising a bottom portion adapted to be positioned in a hole in a hole cup and a top portion adapted to receive a bottom end of a flagstick, wherein a disc-shaped element projects outwards from a side surface of the top portion of the ferrule in a substantially radial direction, the disc-shaped element having a local top surface and a local bottom surface, wherein the disc-shaped element, when in use, is configured to rest on or spaced apart from a top surface of the hole cup so that the disc-shaped element is positioned at a first distance, Di, from the green surface, wherein the top portion and the bottom portion are shaped as a single continuous piece, where the top portion projects outwards from the top surface of the hole cup towards the green surface in the axial direction.

This provides an alternative ferrule design where the length of it is extended so that an upper edge of the disc element is positioned further away from the top surface of the hole cup and thus closer to the green surface compared to conventional systems. This allows for an easier retrieval of the golfballs and insertion of the flagstick.

The present ferrule comprises a continuous cross-sectional profile in the axial direction, which defines a bottom portion and a top portion. The bottom portion is intended to be positioned inside a hole of the hole cup. The top portion is intended to project outwards from the top surface of the hole cup in the axial direction. The profile of the top portion may further be shaped to receive and hold the disc element in place.

The ferrule is provided with a hole adapted to receive and hold a bottom end of the flagstick. The opening of this hole is arranged at the top end of the top portion. The hole may extend through the top portion and into the bottom portion, or only the top portion. The flagstick may be attached to the ferrule by an interference fit, an adhesive, or fastening means such as screws or a locking pin. Other attachment techniques may be used.

In one embodiment, a shoulder is arranged on the ferrule and comprises a contact surface adapted to contact the top surface on the hole cup, where the shoulder is arranged at a transition between the top portion and the bottom portion.

The ferrule may be provided with a shoulder with a contact surface for contacting the top surface of the hole cup, as mentioned earlier. The shoulder may be arranged at the transition between the top portion and the bottom portion. The local contact surface may be shaped to substantially follow the profile of the transition between the hole and the top surface of the hole cup. This allows the ferrule to be guided into the hole where the ferrule rests on the hole cup.

Alternatively, the above shoulder may be formed by the disc element so that the disc element rests on the top surface of the hole cup, when installed.

In one embodiment, the top portion having a local outer diameter greater than a local outer diameter of the bottom portion in the radial direction.

The top portion may have a greater outer diameter than the outer diameter of the bottom piece seen in the radial direction. Thereby forming a stepped side surface along the axial length of the ferrule. The shoulder may thus form the transition between the thicker top portion and the thinner bottom portion. This allows for a more robust attachment of the disc element.

In one embodiment, the top portion having a local outer diameter equal to a local outer diameter of the bottom portion in the radial direction.

The top portion may also have an outer diameter that is the same of the outer diameter of the bottom piece seen in the radial direction. Thereby forming a continuous, flushed side surface along the axial length of the ferrule. This allows the adapter element, as mentioned earlier, to be positioned relative to the top portion of the ferrule. The adapter element may thus form the abovementioned shoulder for contacting the hole cup, when installed.

The ferrule may be configured as a single, continuous piece where the top and bottom pieces form integrated parts of the ferrule. This allows for a faster and cheaper production. The dimensions and shape of the present ferrule may be adapted to fit existing hole cup and/or flagstick systems.

Not part of the claimed invention, the ferrule may also be formed by two sub-pieces that, when assembled, form the ferrule. The top portion may form a first sub-piece and the bottom piece may form a second sub-piece. The first sub-piece may form a local bottom end facing the second sub-piece and the top end of the ferrule. The second subpiece may form a local top end facing the first sub-piece and the bottom end of the ferrule. This allows the top portion to be adapted for different positions of the disc element as well as different flagstick systems. This also allows for replacement of only the top portion if the disc element gets damaged.

The top portion may be attached to or rest on the bottom portion via an interface formed by the local bottom end of the top portion and the local top end of the bottom portion. The attachment may be performed by simply applying an adhesive or silicone to the respective end surfaces. The interface may also form an interference fit, e.g., a press fit or shrink fit, a clamp connection, a threaded connection, or a quick-release coupling for attaching the two sub-pieces. This provides a fixed connection between the top and bottom portions.

Further, at least the top portion may also be attached to the flagstick using any one of the attachment techniques mentioned above. This also provides a fixed connection between the flagstick and at least the top portion.

In one embodiment, the ferrule further comprises an adapter element configured to be positioned relative to the top portion, wherein the adapter element has a central through hole corresponding to the outer diameter of the top portion and for receiving the top portion of the ferrule. The ferrule may also comprise an adapter element configured to be positioned relative to the top portion, as described earlier. The adapter element may be used to determine the second distance D2 between the top surface and the disc element, either alone or in combination with the top portion. The adapter element may act as an extension of the ferrule.

The adapter element may be formed as an annular-shaped element with a central through hole in which the top portion of the ferrule may be positioned. The adapter element may be moved along the bottom portion of the ferrule and into contact with the disc element or another shoulder of the top portion. The adapter element may then be attached to the top portion, e.g., by a locking bolt, a clamp connection or an adhesive, thereby fixing the adapter element relative to the top portion.

Not part of the claimed invention, the adapter element may also be arranged between the top portion and the bottom portion. The adapter element may be formed as a spacer which can be positioned at the interface between the top portion and the bottom portion. The connecting parts between the top portion and the bottom portion may hold the spacer in place.

Not part of the claimed invention, the adapter element may also be formed as an extender element which may be positioned relative to the original top portion. The extender element may be attached to the top portion and/or to the flagstick, e.g., by a clamp connection, a quick-release coupling, or adhesive. The extender element may form another set of grooves for receiving the disc element. The extender element may also simply rest on the top portion and be attached to the flagstick.

The adapter element may have a local length in the axial direction, which alone or in combination with the top portion determine the second distance D2. The adapter element may be manufactured in one or more standard lengths or in a unique length which may be combined with the top portion. This ensures that the disc element is kept at the same distance during usage. The adapter element may be formed by two or more sub-elements which may be connected together to form the adapter element. This allows for a quick and simple attachment of the adapter element.

In one embodiment, the top portion comprises at least one groove arranged at a local side surface, the at least one groove being adapted to receive and hold the disc-shaped element, wherein the at least one groove s arranged at an angle, preferably an acute angle, relative to the axial direction.

The top portion may comprise one or more grooves formed in the local side surface for receiving and holding the disc element in one or more predetermined positions. The grooves may be orientated perpendicular relative to the axial direction Alternatively, the grooves may be arranged at an acute angle relative to the axial direction. This allows the disc element to be angles relative to the flagstick so that the golf balls are guided towards the flagstick. The axial position of the grooves, and thus the disc element, may be selected depending on the design of the hole cup.

The integrated disc element, or the above groove, may be arranged on the side surface at a local distance D2 from the shoulder. This local distance D2 may be correspond to or may be used to determine the second distance D2 mentioned earlier.

The disc element may be attached to the top portion by means of adhesive, silicone, a press-fit, or another suitable attachment technique. This allows the disc element to be replaced, if damaged.

In one embodiment, the disc-shaped element is formed as a thin piece with at least one slot, the at least one slot extending from a circumference edge towards a centre of the disc-shaped element.

The disc element may be formed as a thin, continuous piece, which may have a relative narrow thickness measured in the axial direction between a local top surface and a local bottom surface, and a local outer diameter measured in the radial direction. The disc element may be provided with one or more slots. The slots may be arranged in the circumference of the disc element and extend radially towards the centre of the disc element. Alternatively, the disc element may be shaped as a thin, continuous element without any radial slots. This saves material and increases the flexibility of the disc element so that it does not damage the green or the edges of the golf hole.

In one embodiment, the disc element is formed as a thick piece on which the shoulder is located, and the top portion comprises a groove shaped to receive and hold the thick piece.

The disc element may also be formed as a thick piece, which may a relative wide thickness measured in the axial direction between a local top surface and a local bottom surface, and a local outer diameter measured in the radial direction. This thick piece may further form the shoulder so that the thick piece may rest on the top surface of the hole cup.

As described earlier, the groove in the top portion may be formed as a relative narrow groove shaped to receive and hold the thin piece or as a relative wide groove shaped to receive and hold the thick piece. The local width and local depth of the groove may be selected depending on the configuration of the disc element.

The disc element, e.g., the thin or thick piece, may form a planar or conical shaped top surface. The disc element may further form a planar or conical shaped bottom surface. The surface profile and/or the angular orientation of the bottom surface may differ from the surface profile and/or the angular orientation of the top surface.

In one embodiment, the disc-shaped element is made of an elastic deformable material or comprises an elastic deformable structure, and preferably having an outer diameter of at least 50mm and/or having a local thickness of no more than 50mm.

The disc element may be made from an elastic deformable material so that it returns to its initial state or form once it is not loaded any more. The elastic deformable material may EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer), silicone, NBR (Nitrile) or a foam material, but other elastic deformable materials may also be used. Alternatively, the disc element may have an elastic deformable structure configured to deform when loaded and return to its initial structure when the load is removed. An example of the elastic deformable structure may be fingers extending radially which are capable of bending in the axial direction.

The disc element may have a local thickness, e.g., maximum thickness, measured in the axial direction between a local top surface and a local bottom surface of the disc element. The thickness may be selected so that the disc element is flexible and able to deform relative to its initial form, when loaded. The thickness may be selected dependent on the elastic properties of the material used. The thickness may be no more than 50mm. For example, the thickness may be between l-50mm, preferably between 1- 30mm, preferably between l-10mm, preferably between 2-5mm. This allows the disc element to bend so that it does not damage the green or the edges of the golf hole.

The disc element may have a constant local thickness from the innermost edge to the outermost edge seen in the radial direction. Alternatively, the local thickness may taper from the innermost edge to the outermost edge. For example, the disc element may have a maximum thickness at the innermost edge and a minimum thickness at the outermost edge. For example, the disc element may have a thickened outermost edge and a reduced thickness between the outermost and innermost edges so that the disc element may bend, when loaded. The outermost edge may extend in the circumference direction between slots formed in the disc element, as described later.

Some conventional cup shaped elements comprise supporting ribs arranged on the bottom surface. The ribs extend partly or fully along the bottom surface in a radial direction from the ferrule towards the outermost edge of the cup element. However, these ribs restrict the bending of the cup element, when loaded.

The disc element may have an outer diameter measured at the circumference in a radial plane perpendicular to the axial direction. The disc element may have a constant outer diameter from the top surface to the bottom surface seen in the axial direction. Alternatively, the outer diameter may taper from the top surface to the bottom surface. This saves weight and material for the disc element.

The outer diameter may be selected so that the disc element extends at least 40%, preferably between 40-95%, of the radial distance between the outer diameter of the flagstick and the inner diameter of the golf hole or side walls of the hole cup. For example, the outer diameter may be at least 50mm, preferably between 50- 108mm. This allows the disc element to guide the golfball into contact with the flagstick.

An object of the present invention is further achieved by a kit according to claim 19 for use in a system as described above, comprising:

- at least one ferrule comprising a bottom portion adapted to be positioned in a hole in the hole cup and a top portion adapted to receive a bottom end of the flagstick, where the top portion and the bottom portion are shaped as a single continuous piece, where the top portion projects outwards from the top surface of the hole cup towards a green surface in an axial direction, when installed, and

- at least one disc-shaped element having a local top surface, a local bottom surface and a circumference edge, wherein the at least one disc-shaped element is integrated into or adapted to be attached to the top portion.

The present invention allows the ferrule to be formed as a kit of parts that can be adapted to different hole cups and flagsticks as well as different positions of the disc element. For example, the kit may comprise a number of ferrules, each with a top portion that is adapted to a different position of the disc element. Additionally or alternatively, the kit may comprise a number of ferrules, each adapted to different hole cups and flagsticks. Alternatively, each kit may be dedicated for hole cups and flagsticks produced by a particular manufacture. This provides a versatile ferrule system that can be adapted to existing systems.

The kit is further provided with a number of disc elements, each having the same or different configurations. This allows green keepers to quickly and easily replace damaged disc elements or to exchange the disc elements between tournaments.

In one embodiment, the kit further comprising:

- at least one adapter element configured to be positioned relative to the at least top portion, when installed, wherein a second distance D2 between the top surface of the hole cup and the at least one disc-shaped element is determined by the adapter element alone or in combination with the top portion. The kit may further be provided a number of adapter elements for altering the second distance D2 between the top surface and the disc element. The adapter elements may have different lengths for selectively positioning the disc element relative to the top surface. This allows green keepers to adjust the position of the disc element in a simple and easy manner without having to remove the disc element.

In an alternative embodiment, the disc element may be arranged on the adapter element instead of the top portion of the ferrule. The disc element may thus be integrated or attached to the adapter element, e.g., via grooves as described earlier. This allows the disc element to be replaced together with the adapter element.

In this embodiment, the adapter element may be provided in different axial lengths so that the disc element may be positioned at different distances relative to the top surface of the hole cup. The adapter element may be positioned in a fixed or adjustable position relative to the top portion of the ferrule as described earlier.

The adapter element may have a central through hole with an inner side surface facing the outer side surface of the top portion. Optionally, a threaded coupling, a male-female coupling, a locking pin or another clamping connection may be arranged between the side surfaces of the adapter element and the top portion.

Description of the Drawing

The invention is described by example only and with reference to the drawings, wherein:

Fig. 1 shows a prior art system for marking a golf hole,

Fig. 2 shows an exemplary embodiment of a system according to the invention,

Fig. 3 shows a second embodiment of the ferrule,

Fig. 4 shows a third embodiment of the ferrule,

Fig. 5 shows a ferrule with an alternative embodiment of the disc element,

Figs. 6a-b show a fourth embodiment of the ferrule,

Figs. 7a-b show a fifth embodiment of the ferrule,

Figs. 8a-b show a sixth embodiment of the ferrule, and

Fig. 9 shows an alternative embodiment of the system. In the following text, the figures will be described one by one and the different parts and positions seen in the figures will be numbered with the same numbers in the different figures. Not all parts and positions indicated in a specific figure will necessarily be discussed together with that figure.

Detailed Description of the Invention

Fig. 1 shows a prior art system for marking a golf hole, comprising a hole cup 1, a flagstick 2 and a ferrule 3. The hole cup 1 is adapted to be positioned in a golf hole 4 and comprises a bottom piece 5 forming a top surface 6. The hole cup 1 further comprises sidewalls 7 extending beyond the top surface 6. Here the bottom piece 5 and the sidewalls 7 are integrated into one unit. However, the sidewalls 7 may be provided with a support structure (not shown) on which a funnel-shaped element (not shown) is arranged. The hole cup 1 has an outer diameter D that corresponds to the inner diameter of the golf hole 4. Here, the outer diameter D is no more than 108mm.

The flagstick 2 comprises a bottom end which is intended to be positioned in a hole on the ferrule 3. Here, the flagstick 2 is formed as a solid unit.

The ferrule 3 comprises a bottom piece 8 adapted to be positioned in a hole 9 in the hole cup 1. The ferrule 3 further comprises a top portion 10 adapted to extend between the top surface 6. A disc element 11 is arranged on the top portion 10 and rests on the top surface 6. The disc element 11 is intended to catch a golfball 12 that falls into the golf hole 4.

A top end 13 of the hole cup 1 is arranged at a distance Doi of at least 25.4mm from a green surface 14. An upper edge 15 of the top surface 6 is arranged at a distance D02 of at least 101.6mm from the green surface 14.

Fig. 2 shows exemplary embodiment of a system according to the invention, where the disc element 11 is raised relative to the top surface 6 and positioned in a first distance Di from the green surface 14. Here, the upper edge of the disc element 11 is positioned at a minimum allowable distance from the green surface 14. The lower edge of the disc element 11 is positioned above the upper edge of the top surface 6. The bottom portion 8 of the ferrule 3 comprises two sets of grooves 16 adapted to receive an elastic element (not shown), which contacts an inner surface of the hole 9 in the top surface 6.

Fig. 3 shows a second embodiment of the ferrule 3 where the top portion 17 and the bottom piece 18 are formed as sub-pieces. The two sub-pieces 17, 18 are attached to each other at an interface.

The bottom end of the flagstick 2 is arranged in a hole 19 provided in the top end of the top portion 17. The hole 19 may optionally extend further into the bottom portion 18 as illustrated.

Here, the disc element is integrated into the top portion 17 to form a continuous unit.

Fig. 4 shows a third embodiment of the ferrule 3 where the top portion 17 is provided with a set of grooves 20 adapted to receive and hold the disc element 11. The grooves

20 are arranged in an acute angle relative to the axial direction so the disc element 11 forms a conical profile.

The disc element 11 is positioned at a second distance D2 from the top surface 6 of the hole cup 1 as illustrated in Fig. 2. Here, the second distance D2 is determined by a local distance D2’ measured from a lower edge of the integrated disc element 11 to a shoulder

21 arranged at a transition between the top portion 17 and the bottom portion 18 as illustrated in Fig. 3. The shoulder 21 has a local contact surface for contacting the top surface 6. Alternatively, the second distance D2 is determined by a local distance D2’ measured from the groove 20 for receiving the disc element 11 to the shoulder 21 as illustrated in Fig. 4.

Fig. 5 shows a ferrule 3 with an alternative embodiment of the disc element 11’. Here the disc element 11’ is formed as a large solid piece on which the shoulder 21 is located. Here, the disc element 11’ rest on the top surface.

The top surface of this disc element 11 ’ may be planar or have a conical shaped surface. Here the top portion 17 comprises a wide, shallow groove for receiving and holding the disc element 11’ in place. The disc element 11’ has a maximum thickness at the innermost edge, which then tapers off towards the outermost edge as illustrated.

Figs. 6a-b show a fourth embodiment of the ferrule 3 where the top portion 9’ is provided with a local shoulder near the disc element 11”. The shoulder is adapted to contact a matching surface on an adapter element 22.

The adapter element 22 is here formed as an annular-shaped element with a central through hole corresponding to the outer diameter of the top portion 9’. The adapter element 22 is moved along the bottom portion 8 until the adapter element 22 contacts the shoulder on the top portion 9’. A locking bolt 23 is then used to fix the adapter element 22 relative to the top portion 9.

Here, the disc element 11” is provided with a number of slots 24 extending from a circumference towards a centre of the disc element 11”.

Figs. 7a-b show a fifth embodiment of the ferrule 3 where the adapter element 22’ is formed as a spacer. The bottom portion 8’ of the ferrule 3 is provided with a first threaded connecting part 26. The top portion 9’ of the ferrule 3 is provided with a second matching threaded connecting part. The spacer is configured to be positioned between the first and second threaded parts and thus the top and bottom portions 8’, 9’.

Figs. 8a-b show a sixth embodiment of the ferrule 3 where the adapter element 22” is formed as an add-on portion. The add-on portion comprises a first sub-element 27a and a second sub-element 27b, which are configured to be connected. Here, the first and second sub-elements 27a, 27b are configured to clamp around the flagstick 2 by means of a bolted connection 28.

Fig. 9 shows an alternative embodiment of the system where the flagstick 2’ is made of a composite material. Here, the ferrule 3 is formed as a continuous piece with the shoulder 21 resting on the top surface 6’. The disc element 11 is positioned at the second distance D2 from the green surface 14. The hole cup 1 ’ has a different configuration of the bottom piece, but still form a top surface 6’. The bottom portion 8 of the ferrule 3 is adapted to fit into the hole of this bottom piece. The abovementioned exemplary embodiments of the present invention can be combined in any combination within the scope of the present invention.