Prestige Flag Mfg. v. Golf Solutions I - Complaint

Case: 3:18-cv-00098 Document #: 1 Filed: 02/13/18 Page 1 of 17
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT

FOR THE WESTERN DISTRICT OF WISCONSIN
_________________________________________________________________
PRESTIGE FLAG MFG. CO., INC.,

a California corporation,
Plaintiff,
v. Civil Action No.
GOLF SOLUTIONS I, LLC,

a Wisconsin limited liability company
doing business as Laser Link Golf,
Defendant.
__________________________________________________________________
PRESTIGE FLAG MFG. CO., INC.’S COMPLAINT FOR:

(1) PATENT INFRINGEMENT;
(2) UNFAIR COMPETITION UNDER 15 U.S.C. §1125(a); AND
(3) UNFAIR COMPETITION UNDER WISCONSIN COMMON LAW.
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
__________________________________________________________________
Plaintiff Prestige Flag Mfg. Co., Inc. (“Prestige”) complains and alleges as follows
against Defendant Golf Solutions I, L.L.C. (“Golf Solutions”).
THE PARTIES
1. Plaintiff is a California corporation, having a principal place of business at
591 Camino De La Reina # 917, San Diego, California 92108.
2. On information and belief, Golf Solutions is a Wisconsin limited liability
company in the business of manufacturing and selling, among other things, laser
rangefinders and flagstick reflectors for use in golf. On information and belief, Golf
Solutions has manufactured and sold and/or currently manufactures and sells flagsticks
fitted with prism reflectors, as well as flagstick reflectors. On information and belief, Golf
Solutions’ managing member is a citizen of Wisconsin. On information and belief, Golf
Solutions’ business has been, and continues to be primarily conducted from its offices
located in Wisconsin at 5315 Voges Road, Madison, Wisconsin, 53718, which is Golf
Solutions’ principal place of business. On information and belief, Golf Solutions
previously had its principal place of business in Wisconsin at 4027 Owl Creek Drive,
Madison, Wisconsin, 53718.
NATURE OF THE ACTION
3. This is a civil action against Golf Solutions for infringement of United States
Patent Number 7,215,412 (“the ’412 Patent”), and United States Design Patent Numbers
D564,405 (“the ’D405 Patent”) and D546,243 (“the ’D243 Patent) (collectively, “the
Asserted Patents”) arising under the patent laws of the United States, Title 35 of the United
States Code; for unfair competition in violation of the Lanham Act arising under 15 U.S.C.
§§ 1125 et. seq.; and for unfair competition arising under the common law of the State of
Wisconsin.
JURISDICTION AND VENUE
4. This Court has original subject matter jurisdiction of this action under 15
U.S.C. § 1121(a) (federal question), 28 U.S.C. § 1331 (federal question), 28 U.S.C. §
1338(a) and (b) (any Act of Congress relating to patents and trademarks and related unfair
competition), and under the supplemental jurisdiction of this Court, as embodied in 28
U.S.C. § 1367(a).
5. This Court has specific and general personal jurisdiction over Golf Solutions
based upon at least: (1) Golf Solutions’ status as a domestic corporation at the time this
action was commenced (Wis. Stat. 801.05(1)(c)); (2) Golf Solutions’ engagement in
substantial and not isolated activities within Wisconsin (Wis. Stat. 801.05(d)); (3) Golf
Solutions’ acts or omissions within Wisconsin that gave rise to Prestige’s injuries
complained of herein (Wis. Stat. 801.05(3)); and/or (4) acts or omissions outside of
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Wisconsin that, at the time of Prestige’s injuries, involved solicitation or service activities
carried out in Wisconsin by or on behalf of Golf Solutions, and/or products, materials, or
things processed, serviced, or manufactured by Golf Solutions that were used or consumed
within Wisconsin within the ordinary course of trade (Wis. Stat. 801.05(4)).
6. Additionally, Golf Solutions has committed and continues to commit acts of
infringement in violation of at least 35 U.S.C. §§ 271(a), (b), and (c), and place infringing
products into the stream of commerce, with the knowledge or understanding that such
products are sold in the State of Wisconsin, including in this judicial district. Moreover,
Golf Solutions’ acts, including unfair competition, caused and are causing injury to
Prestige within this judicial district. On information and belief, Golf Solutions has begun
and will continue to derive substantial revenue from the sale of infringing products within
this judicial district, expects its actions to have consequences within this judicial district,
and derives substantial revenue from interstate and international commerce, including
within this judicial district.
7. Venue is proper within this judicial district under 28 U.S.C. §§ 1391(b) and
1400(b), at least because, on information and belief, Golf Solutions is a Wisconsin limited
liability company; Golf Solutions’ managing member is a citizen of Wisconsin; and/or Golf
Solutions’ business, including making, having made, selling, offering for sale, and/or
importing infringing products, has been, and continues to be primarily conducted from its
offices located in Wisconsin at 5315 Voges Road, Madison, Wisconsin, 53718, which upon
information and belief is Golf Solutions’ principal place of business and is a regular and
established place of business within this district. On information and belief, Golf Solutions
has maintained its office at this location since at least December of 2014. On information
and belief, prior to December 2014, Golf Solutions maintained its offices and principal
place of business in Wisconsin at 4027 Owl Creek Drive, Madison, Wisconsin, 53718,
which was also a regular and established place of business within this district.
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8. Additionally, venue is proper within this judicial district because a

substantial portion of the events giving rise to the claims for relief stated in this Complaint
arose in this judicial district. By way of specific example, Golf Solutions has made, had
made, imported, sold or offered for sale infringing products in or from this district, and has
committed other acts complained of infra within this district. In addition, Prestige suffered
and is suffering harm in this district as a result of Golf Solutions’ conduct complained of
herein.
BACKGROUND FACTS
9. Plaintiff Prestige is a San Diego-based company that designs and
manufactures flags, banners, golf course flags, flagsticks, and golf course accessories,
including a line of reflection rangefinder products for gauging distance. Customers use
Prestige’s high quality products in many places throughout the world, including the United
States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, and Asia.
10. On October 25, 2013, Prestige duly acquired a golf stick and reflector
business from Golf Solutions I, L.L.C. d/b/a Laser Link Golf (“the Laser Link Business”)
pursuant to an asset purchase agreement between the two companies and in exchange for
substantial consideration. Further, pursuant to this asset purchase agreement, Prestige
acquired the intellectual property, goodwill, and physical assets related to the Laser Link
Business.
11. The acquired Laser Link Business includes reflection products such as
flagstick reflectors, sold under the name Smarty (flagstick screw-on reflectors). The
Smarty 5 Reflector screws into the top of a golf flagstick, and contains five prisms that
reflect laser light. Coupled with a rangefinder, a device that sends laser light toward the
flagstick and receives laser light reflected back from reflectors in the Smarty 5 Reflector
atop the flagstick, the Smarty 5 Reflector enables a golfer to accurately determine the
distance between the golfer and the flagstick.
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12. In connection with its acquisition of the Laser Link Business and the
associated intellectual property and goodwill, Prestige acquired and owns all right, title,
and interest in the asserted design patents: (1) the ’412 Patent, titled “Flagpole Reflectors
for Laser Range Finders,” a copy of which is attached as Exhibit A (2) the ’D405 Patent,
titled “Flagpole Reflector,” a copy of which is attached as Exhibit B; and (3) the ’D243
Patent, titled “Flag Stick Reflector,” a copy of which is attached as Exhibit C. The
functionality and designs claimed in the Asserted Patents are embodied in Prestige’s
Smarty 5 Reflector and/or in Prestige’s products.
13. Since acquiring the Laser Link Business, Prestige has continuously offered
for sale its Smarty products in interstate commerce, and has vigorously protected its
intellectual property, including the innovative functionality and distinctive designs of
Prestige’s Smarty that are protected through the above-mentioned patents issued by the
United States Patent and Trademark Office and duly assigned to Prestige. Prestige’s
patents cover the functional and distinctive ornamental features of the Smarty 5 Reflector
products, including, for example, their overall utility, appearance, shape, and the location
and distribution of prisms throughout the device. Prestige is informed and believes that
customers in the marketplace have come to associate these distinctive features and overall
appearance with Prestige’s high quality products, including its Smarty products.
14. On November 20, 2014, Prestige filed a complaint against Golf Solutions
and Robert F. O’Loughlin alleging Breach of Contract in connection with Prestige’s
acquisition of the Laser Link Business. On December 12, 2014, Prestige filed an amended
complaint further alleging Negligent Misrepresentation and Fraudulent Misrepresentation
in addition to Breach of Contract on the part of Golf Solutions and Robert F. O’Loughlin.
On May 6, 2015, Prestige and Golf Solutions and Robert F. O’Loughlin came to a
settlement agreement in which Prestige agreed to release Golf Solutions and Robert F.
O’Loughlin from the noncompetition agreement set forth in the asset purchase agreement
as of October 26, 2017. However, the settlement agreement also set forth that the
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assignment of patents (including the Asserted Patents) and trademarks (Smarty) remain
intact.
15. On information and belief, Golf Solutions is a worldwide provider of a
number of golf course accessories. On information and belief, Golf Solutions’ products
are on sale and in use throughout the United States, including in the State of California. As
of at least November 2017, Golf Solutions has begun offering for sale, a flagstick reflector
product named the “BEACON” on its website. A copy of the relevant portions of Golf
Solutions website is attached as Exhibit D.
16. On information and belief, Golf Solutions’ BEACON reflector is described
in its advertising as a prism flagstick reflector that uses a five-prism design that is used
with laser rangefinders to measure distance. Specifically, Golf Solutions’ BEACON
reflector embodies the functionality of the flagpole reflectors disclosed and claimed in the
’412 Patent. Indeed, Golf Solutions is the original assignee of the ’412 Patent.
17. Claim 14 of the ’412 Patent is exemplary and reads as follows:
A device for reflecting laser light back to a laser range finder, the device
comprising:
a first lateral surface having a first exterior peripheral edge;
a second lateral surface having a second exterior peripheral edge;
a rod surface extending from the first exterior peripheral edge to the second
exterior peripheral edge;
a plurality of sockets, the plurality of sockets formed in the rod surface and
arranged in a plurality of rows, wherein two or more sockets are arranged in
at least one row of the plurality of rows; and
a light reflector mounted in each of the plurality of sockets, whereby a portion

of laser light directed at the device from a laser is reflected back to the laser
by at least one light reflector.
18. On information and belief, the resemblance between Golf Solutions’

BEACON reflector and the Smarty 5 Reflector (and the designs claimed in the Asserted
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Patents) is such as to deceive an ordinary observer, giving such attention as a purchaser

usually gives, including inducing the purchaser to purchase one supposing it to be the other.
Golf Solutions’ BEACON reflector has an overall appearance that is substantially the same,
in view of the prior art and in the eyes of an ordinary observer, as the Smarty 5 Reflector
(and the designs claimed in the Asserted Patents), as demonstrated by the side-by-side
comparison below (Table 1).
Table 1
Figure 8 Figure 4 BEACON

’D243 ’D405
19. However, since assigning the Asserted Patents to Prestige, Prestige has
not authorized Golf Solutions to practice the product claimed in the Asserted Patents.
Nor has Prestige authorized Golf Solutions to offer products confusingly similar to
Prestige’s Smarty products. Similarly, Prestige has never authorized Golf Solutions
to use Prestige’s duly held goodwill and intellectual property associated with the
Laser Link Business, including the distinctive trade dress customers have come to
recognize when seeking the Smarty Reflector.
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20. On information and belief, Golf Solutions has used, imported into,
sold, or offered for sale in the United States its BEACON reflector, which infringes
the Asserted Patents. Golf Solutions has not obtained permission from Prestige to
use, sell, offer, or import Prestige’s product or designs claimed in the Asserted
Patents. Golf Solutions had many options in developing its BEACON reflector.
Nevertheless, Golf Solutions chose to willingly infringe Prestige’s product and
designs claimed in the Asserted Patents by making, using, selling or offering for
sale, and/or importing its BEACON reflector during the terms of Prestige’s
Asserted Patents, knowing full well that its BEACON product is covered by the
Asserted Patents.
FIRST CAUSE OF ACTION
Infringement of Design Patent ‘D405
21. Prestige incorporates and realleges Paragraphs 1 through 21 of this
Complaint.
22. Under 35 U.S.C. § 271(a), Golf Solutions has infringed and continues
to infringe, literally or under the doctrine of equivalents, the ’D405 Patent by
making, using, selling, and/or offering to sell in the United States, and/or importing
into the United States the BEACON product identified in this Complaint, which
BEACON embodies the design covered by the ’D405 Patent.
23. Moreover, Golf Solutions has infringed and continues to infringe the
’D405 Patent indirectly, under 35 U.S.C. §§ 271(b) and (c), by inducing others to
infringe the ’D405 Patent, and by committing acts that constitute contributory
infringement of the ’D405 Patent.
24. On information and belief, Golf Solutions has gained profits and will
continue to gain profits following its release from the noncompetition clause by
virtue of its infringement of the ’D405 Patent.
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25. On information and belief, Prestige has sustained damages and will
continue to sustain damages as a direct and proximate result of Golf Solutions’
infringement of the ’D405 Patent following Golf Solutions’ release from the
noncompetition clause, and, as such, Prestige is entitled to damages pursuant to 35
U.S.C. §§ 284 and/or 289.
26. Moreover, Prestige is informed and believes that Golf Solutions’
infringement of the ’D405 Patent is and has been willful. On information and belief,
Golf Solutions has acted and continues to act with objective recklessness by
proceeding despite an objectively high likelihood that its actions constitute
infringement of Prestige’s valid patents, and Golf Solutions is aware of Prestige’s
patents, including the ’D405 Patent, and knows of the high likelihood that they cover
Golf Solutions’ products. Indeed, Golf Solutions assigned the Asserted Patents to
Prestige as part of the aforementioned asset purchase agreement.
27. This is an exceptional case warranting an award of treble damages to
Prestige under 35 U.S.C. § 284, and an award of attorneys’ fees under 35 U.S.C. §
285.
28. On information and belief, Prestige will suffer and is suffering
irreparable harm from Golf Solutions’ infringement of the ’D405 Patent. Prestige
has no adequate remedy at law and is, under 35 U.S.C. § 283, entitled to an injunction
against Golf Solutions’ continuing infringement of the ’D405 Patent. Unless
enjoined, Golf Solutions will continue its infringing conduct.
SECOND CAUSE OF ACTION
Infringement of Design Patent ’D243
Complaint.
to infringe, literally or under the doctrine of equivalents, the ’D243 Patent by
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making, using, selling, and/or offering to sell in the United States, and/or importing
into the United States the BEACON product identified in this Complaint, which
BEACON product embodies the design covered by the ’D243 Patent.
31. Moreover, Golf Solutions has infringed and continues to infringe the
’D243 Patent indirectly, under 35 U.S.C. §§ 271(b) and (c), by inducing others to
infringe the ’D243 Patent, and by committing acts that constitute contributory
infringement of the ’D243 Patent.
32. On information and belief, Golf Solutions has gained profits and will
continue to gain profits following its release from the noncompetition clause by
virtue of its infringement of the ’D243 Patent.
33. On information and belief, Prestige has sustained damages and will
continue to sustain damages as a direct and proximate result of Golf Solutions’
infringement of the ’D243 Patent following Golf Solutions’ release from the
noncompetition clause, and, as such, Prestige is entitled to damages pursuant to 35
U.S.C. §§ 284 and/or 289.
34. Moreover, Prestige is informed and believes that Golf Solutions’
infringement of the ’D243 Patent is and has been willful. On information and belief,
Golf Solutions has acted and continues to act with objective recklessness by
proceeding despite an objectively high likelihood that its actions constitute
infringement of Prestige’s valid patents, and Golf Solutions is aware of these patents,
including the ’D243 Patent, and know of the high likelihood that they cover Golf
Solutions’ products. Again, Golf Solution assigned the Asserted Patents to Prestige
as part of the aforementioned asset purchase agreement.
35. This is an exceptional case warranting an award of treble damages to
Prestige under 35 U.S.C. § 284, and an award of attorneys’ fees under 35 U.S.C. §
285.
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36. On information and belief, Prestige will suffer and is suffering

irreparable harm from Golf Solutions’ infringement of the ’D243 Patent. Prestige
has no adequate remedy at law and is, under 35 U.S.C. § 283, entitled to an injunction
against Golf Solutions’ continuing infringement of the ’D243 Patent. Unless
enjoined, Golf Solutions will continue its infringing conduct.
THIRD CAUSE OF ACTION
Infringement of the ’412 Patent
Complaint.
to infringe, literally or under the doctrine of equivalents, the ’412 Patent by without
authority making, using, offering to sell or selling within the United States, or
importing into the United States, during the term of the ’412 Patent the flagpole
reflector products identified in this Complaint, which are covered by the claims of
the ’412 Patent.
39. Under 35 U.S.C. § 271(b), Golf Solutions has actively induced, and is
actively inducing, infringement of the ’412 Patent by promoting, offering and selling
the BEACON reflector that Golf Solutions knows, when used, will infringe the ’412
Patent.
40. Under 35 U.S.C. § 271(c), Golf Solutions has contributed to, and is
contributing to, infringement of the ’412 Patent by offering to sell or selling within
the United States, or importing into the United States, the BEACON products
constituting a material part of the invention, knowing the same to be especially made
or especially adapted for use in an infringement of the ’412 Patent, and not a staple
article or commodity of commerce suitable for substantial noninfringing use.
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FOURTH CAUSE OF ACTION

Unfair Competition Under 15 U.S.C. § 1125(a)
Complaint.
42. The acts of Golf Solutions complained of above are likely to cause
confusion, or to cause mistake, or to deceive as to the affiliation, connection, or
association as to the origin, sponsorship, or approval of Golf Solutions’ and
Prestige’s goods. Moreover, the acts of Golf Solutions complained of above
misrepresent the nature, characteristics, or qualities of Golf Solutions’ and Prestige’s
goods. These acts thus constitute false designation of origin and/or affiliation, false
or misleading description of fact, or false or misleading representation of fact, in
violation of 15 U.S.C. §1125(a).
43. Prestige is informed and believes that Golf Solutions’ acts include, for
example, offering Golf Solutions’ BEACON reflector for sale and piggybacking off
Prestige’s goodwill, by copying the distinctive features, designs and appearances of
Prestige’s Smarty products, all of which were assigned to and purchased by Prestige
via the asset purchase agreement, which remains intact.
44. Prestige has suffered and will continue to damages from Golf
Solutions’ conduct in an amount to be proven at trial.
45. Golf Solutions has received and will continue to receive wrongful gains
from its conduct in an amount to be proven at trial.
46. Prestige is informed and believes, and thereon alleges that, unless
restrained by the Court, Golf Solutions will continue to designate falsely the origin
of its goods, causing irreparable damage to Prestige and engendering a multiplicity
of lawsuits. Pecuniary compensation will not afford Prestige adequate relief for its
resulting damages. Further, Prestige is informed and believes, and thereon alleges,
that in the absence of injunctive relief, customers are likely to continue being
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mistaken or deceived as to the true source, origin, sponsorship, and affiliation of

Golf Solutions’ goods.
FIFTH CAUSE OF ACTION
Unfair Competition Under Wisconsin Common Law
Complaint.
48. The acts of Golf Solutions complained of above constitute unfair
competition under the common law of the State of Wisconsin. Prestige expended
significant amounts of money ($2,500,000.00), time, labor, and resources in the
goodwill associated with its Smarty products. On information and belief, Golf
Solutions copied those products, including the distinctive features, designs, and
appearances of Prestige’s Smarty products, all of which were assigned to and
purchased by Prestige via the asset purchase agreement, which remains intact, and
is trading off that goodwill at relatively little to no engineering or design expense
and without Prestige’s authorization.
49. Golf Solutions has used and is using its misappropriation of Prestige’s
goodwill and that of its products to unfairly compete with Prestige for customers and
sales of the parties’ competing golf products. By trading on Prestige’s goodwill,
Golf Solutions has obtained an ability to sell its products in the marketplace in
competition with Prestige that Golf Solutions would not otherwise have. Prestige
has suffered commercial damages and other harm as a result of Golf Solutions’
misappropriation—including, for example, lost sales and customer confusion.
50. Prestige is informed and believes that further examples of Golf
Solutions’ acts of unfair competition include sales of confusingly similar Golf
Solutions products.
51. Golf Solutions’ misappropriation of Prestige’s goodwill invades the
property rights of Prestige, which have commercial value.
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52. Golf Solutions’ misappropriation of Prestige’s goodwill constitutes an

unfair invasion or infringement and is a form of commercial immorality.
53. Golf Solutions’ intentional actions are unlawful, fraudulent, and have
led to the material diminution in value of Prestige’s intellectual property involved in
Golf Solutions’ infringement.
54. Golf Solutions’ unfair competition with Prestige was, and is, done
willfully, maliciously, and/or in an intentional disregard of Prestige’s rights.
55. Prestige has suffered actual damages, including but not limited to
commercial damages, from Golf Solutions’ conduct in an amount to be proven at
trial.
56. Golf Solutions has received and will continue to receive wrongful gains
from its conduct in an amount to be proven at trial.
57. Golf Solutions’ acts complained of above were committed with fraud,
malice, and/or oppression. Upon information and belief, Golf Solutions’ actions
were intended to cause harm to Prestige, and constitute assertions, representations
or statements of fact that are untrue, deceptive, and/or misleading. Golf Solutions
carried on its conduct with a willful and conscious disregard for Prestige’s rights.
These acts are also actionable under Federal statutes, including but not limited to 15
U.S.C. § 1125(a).
DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL
Prestige requests a trial by jury on all issues so triable in this action.
PRAYER FOR RELIEF
WHEREFORE, Prestige prays:
A. For a judgment that Golf Solutions has infringed one or more claims of
Prestige’s Asserted Patents;
B. For an order and judgment preliminarily and permanently enjoining
Golf Solutions and its officers, directors, agents, servants, employees,
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affiliates, attorneys, and all others acting in privity, active concert, or

participation with any of them, and its parents, subsidiaries, divisions,
successors and assigns, who receive actual notice of the judgment by
personal service or otherwise, from further acts of infringement of
Prestige’s Asserted Patents and further acts of unfair competition;
C. That Golf Solutions be directed to file with this court, within thirty days
after entry of any injunction in this case, a written statement, under oath,
setting forth in detail the manner in which Golf Solutions have
complied with the injunction;
D. For a judgment awarding Prestige all damages, in an as yet
undetermined amount, adequate to compensate for Golf Solutions’
infringement of Prestige’s Asserted Patents, and in no event less than a
reasonable royalty for Golf Solutions’ acts of infringement, including
all pre-judgment and post-judgment interest at the maximum rate
permitted by law;
E. For a judgment awarding Prestige all damages, including treble
damages, based on any infringement found to be willful, pursuant to 35
U.S.C. § 284, together with prejudgment interest;
F. For a judgment that Golf Solutions and its officers, agents, distributors,
employees, attorneys, subsidiaries, assigns, or related companies, and
those in active concert or participation with any of them, who receive
actual notice of the judgment by personal service or otherwise, be
permanently enjoined from using, offering for sale, or employing,
directly or indirectly, any device, product, or the like, that is
confusingly similar to, or is likely to confuse or deceive as to the
affiliation, connection, sponsorship, or association of, the Reflection
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Products or commercial activities of Golf Solutions with Plaintiff or the

Reflection Products, or with Plaintiff’s commercial activities;
G. That an accounting be directed to determine Golf Solutions’ profits
resulting from its false designation of origin and affiliation and unfair
competition, which are the subject of this suit, and that such profits be
increased under 15 U.S.C. §1117;
H. That Prestige recover its damages, in an as yet undetermined amount,
resulting from the above-alleged false designation of origin and unfair
competition of Golf Solutions;
I. That Prestige be awarded punitive damages in an amount to be
determined;
J. For costs of suit and reasonable attorneys’ fees; and
K. For any other remedy to which Prestige may be entitled under the law,
and any other further relief as the Court may deem appropriate.
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Dated: February 13, 2018 Respectfully submitted,
SHEPPARD, MULLIN, RICHTER &

HAMPTON LLP
By: /s/ Bradley C. Graveline

Bradley C. Graveline
(Ill. Bar. No. 6203817)
70 West Madison Street, 48th Floor
Chicago, IL 60602
Telephone: 312.499.6300
Facsimile: 312.499.6301
bgraveline@sheppardmullin.com
Eric K. Gill (application for admission pending)

(Cal. Bar No. 292548)
12275 El Camino Real
Suite 200
San Diego, CA 92130
Telephone: 858.720.8900
Facsimile: 858.509.3691
egill@sheppardmullin.com
Counsel for Plaintiff

Prestige Flag Mfg. Co., Inc.
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Case: 3:18-cv-00098 Document #: 1-1 Filed: 02/13/18 Page 1 of 20
EXHIBIT A
US007215412B2
(12) United States Patent (10) Patent N0.: US 7,215,412 B2

O’Loughlin et al. (45) Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
(54) FLAGPOLE REFLECTORS FOR LASER 6,062,985 A 5/2000 Rege

RANGE FINDERS 6,185,055 B1* 2/2001 Feist ........................ .. 359/831
6,266,628 B1* 7/2001 Huep et al. ............... .. 702/150
(75) Inventors: Robert F. O’Loughlin, Madison, WI
. - - ,
g1 gege
rsprlmg
(Us), Mlchael D‘ Plmean’ . . 2004/0223139 A1 * 11/2004 Vogel .................... .. 356/1411

Mmneapohsi MN ms)’ Damel stemer’ 2005/0272515 A1 12/2005 Hurley etal.
Waunakee, WI (US); Wayne
T‘mberma‘" Carmel’ IN (Us) OTHER PUBLICATIONS
(73) Assignee: GOlf sOllltiOIlS 1, L-L-C-, Madison, WI Internet WorldWide Web Page, http://WWW.laserlinkgolf.com/main.
(US) htm, printed Nov. 23, 2004.
Internet World Wide Web Page, http://WWW.
( * ) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this mosquitocreekoutdoors.com/cgi-bin/SoftCart.eXe/golf£ps.
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 htmi’E?cstofe, PTlIltedL Aug 4, 2004
U.S.C. 154(b) by 258 days. * Cited by examiner
(21) APP1- NO-I 10/931,947 Primary ExamineriThomas H. TarcZa
_ Assistant ExamineriLuke D. Ratcliife
(22) Flled? seP- 1’ 2004 (74) Attorney, Agent, or FirmiFoley & Lardner, LLP
(65) Prior Publication Data (57) ABSTRACT
US 2006/0044544 A1 Mar. 2, 2006
A system and method are provided for determining a dis
(51) Int. Cl. tance to a target. The method includes sending li ght, at a ?rst
G01C 3/08 (2006.01) time, to a light re?ector mounted in a re?ector device,
(52) US. Cl. ................. .. 356/4.01; 356/402; 356/403; receiving light re?ected from the light re?ector at a second
356/501 time, and determining the distance to the re?ector device
(58) Field of Classi?cation Search .............. .. 356/401 using the diiferenee between the ?rst time and the second
See application ?le for Complete Search history time. The re?ector device has a ?rst lateral surface, a second
_ lateral surface parallel to the ?rst lateral surface, and a rod
(56) References Clted surface extending from the ?rst lateral surface to the second
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS lateral surface. The re?ector device includes sockets
arranged in the rod surface With a light re?ector mounted in
2,362,131 A * 11/1944 Haggart, Jr. .............. .. 340/321 each socket. The sockets may be arranged in a plurality of
D242,775 S 12/1976 Williams, Jr. roWs With possibly a plurality of sockets in each roW. The
4,136,394 A 1/1979 Jones et al. re?ector device may be mounted as an insert to or at the top
4,813,494 A * 3/1989 Beard et al. 173/91
of a target to determine the distance to the target.
5,723,840 A * 3/1998 Bojic et al. .. 218/60
5,760,909 A * 6/1998 Nichols ..... .. 356/408
5,841,392 A * 11/1998 Kishimoto ................ .. 342/125 24 Claims, 10 Drawing Sheets
\72
/76
82
80
50
74
54
70
78
U.S. Patent May 8, 2007 Sheet 1 or 10 US 7,215,412 B2
1
FIG.
50
78
56
U.S. Patent May 8,2007 Sheet 3 0f 10 US 7,215,412 B2

U.S. Patent May 8,2007 Sheet 4 or 10 US 7,215,412 B2
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US 7,215,412 B2
1 2
FLAGPOLE REFLECTORS FOR LASER Another exemplary embodiment of the invention relates
RANGE FINDERS to a device for re?ecting laser light back to a laser range
?nder. The device includes, but is not limited to, a pole and
FIELD OF THE INVENTION a re?ector device. The re?ector device mounts to the pole.
The re?ector device includes, but is not limited to, a ?rst
The present invention is related to systems for determin lateral surface having a ?rst exterior peripheral edge, a
ing a distance to an object. More speci?cally, the present second lateral surface having a second exterior peripheral
invention relates to a re?ector placed at a desired location, edge, a rod surface extending from the ?rst exterior periph
and the use of laser light to calculate a distance from a laser eral edge to the second exterior peripheral edge, tWo to four
light source to the re?ector location. sockets, and a light re?ector mounted in each of the tWo to
four sockets. The tWo to four sockets are formed in the rod
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
surface and arranged in a plurality of roWs. Aportion of light
directed at the device from a laser is re?ected back to the
Laser light can be used to measure the distance from the
laser by at least one light re?ector.
laser light source to a target object. Powerful lasers can
measure distances of hundreds of millions of miles. Much Still another exemplary embodiment of the invention
less poWerful lasers, hoWever, are useful in measuring much relates to a system for determining a distance to a target. The
shorter distances. Short range lasers can measure distances system includes, but is not limited to, a laser range ?nder, a
up to 300 yards and are much smaller in siZe, relatively pole, and a re?ector device. The laser range ?nder is
inexpensive, and less haZardous. To measure distance, a 20
con?gured to send light at a ?rst time to the re?ector device,
laser transmits several pulses of light toWard an intended to receive a portion of the light re?ected from the re?ector
target. The light is re?ected from the target and is received device at a second time, and to determine the distance from
by a receptor. A calculation is made to determine the the laser range ?nder to the re?ector device using the ?rst
distance to the target based on the elapsed travel time time and the second time. The re?ector device mounts to the
betWeen the transmission of the pulse of light and the 25
pole. The re?ector device includes, but is not limited to, a
reception of the re?ected pulse of light. When the target does ?rst lateral surface having a ?rst exterior peripheral edge, a
not re?ect su?icient laser light back to the receptor, errors in second lateral surface having a second exterior peripheral
the distance measurement may result or a complete failure to edge, a rod surface extending from the ?rst exterior periph
measure any distance to the target may result. Thus, there is eral edge to the second exterior peripheral edge, tWo to four
a need for an improved method and a system for accurately 30
sockets, and a light re?ector mounted in each of the tWo to
and for reliably measuring the distance to a knoWn target. four sockets. The tWo to four sockets are formed in the rod
Further, there is a need for an improved method and system surface and arranged in a plurality of roWs. A portion of the
for measuring the distance to a knoWn target that is simple light directed at the re?ector device from the laser range
to use.
?nder is re?ected back to the laser range ?nder by at least
35
one light re?ector.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An exemplary embodiment of the invention relates to a
method for determining a distance to a target. The method
An exemplary embodiment of the invention relates to a includes, but is not limited to, sending light at a ?rst time
method for determining a distance to a target. The method from a device to a re?ector device, receiving light re?ected
includes, but is not limited to, sending light at a ?rst time 40 from a light re?ector at the device at a second time, and
from a device to a re?ector device, receiving light re?ected determining the distance from the device to the re?ector
from a light re?ector at the device at a second time, and device using the ?rst time and the second time. The re?ector
determining the distance from the device to the re?ector device mounts to a pole. The re?ector device includes, but
device using the ?rst time and the second time. The re?ector is not limited to, a ?rst lateral surface having a ?rst exterior
device mounts to a pole. The re?ector device includes, but 45 peripheral edge, a second lateral surface having a second
is not limited to, a ?rst lateral surface having a ?rst exterior exterior peripheral edge, a rod surface extending from the
peripheral edge, a second lateral surface having a second ?rst exterior peripheral edge to the second exterior periph
exterior peripheral edge, a rod surface extending from the eral edge, a plurality of sockets, and the light re?ector
?rst exterior peripheral edge to the second exterior periph mounted in one of the plurality of sockets. The plurality of
eral edge, tWo to four sockets, and the light re?ector 50 sockets are formed in the rod surface and arranged in a
mounted in one of the tWo to four sockets. The tWo to four plurality of roWs. TWo or more sockets are arranged in at
sockets are formed in the rod surface and arranged in a least one roW of the plurality of roWs. The light re?ector
plurality of roWs. The light re?ector receives a portion of the receives a portion of the light and re?ects the received
light and re?ects the received portion of the light back to the portion of the light back to the device.
device. 55 An exemplary embodiment of the invention relates to a
An exemplary embodiment of the invention relates to a device for re?ecting laser light back to a laser range ?nder.
device for re?ecting laser light back to a laser range ?nder. The device includes, but is not limited to, a ?rst lateral
The device includes, but is not limited to, a ?rst lateral surface having a ?rst exterior peripheral edge, a second
surface having a ?rst exterior peripheral edge, a second lateral surface having a second exterior peripheral edge, a
lateral surface having a second exterior peripheral edge, a 60 rod surface extending from the ?rst exterior peripheral edge
rod surface extending from the ?rst exterior peripheral edge to the second exterior peripheral edge, a plurality of sockets,
to the second exterior peripheral edge, tWo to four sockets, and a light re?ector mounted in each of the plurality of
and a light re?ector mounted in each of the tWo to four sockets. The plurality of sockets are formed in the rod
sockets. The tWo to four sockets are formed in the rod surface and arranged in a plurality of roWs. TWo or more
surface and arranged in a plurality of roWs. A portion of light 65 sockets are arranged in at least one roW of the plurality of
directed at the device from a laser is re?ected back to the roWs. A portion of light directed at the device from a laser
laser by at least one light re?ector. is re?ected back to the laser by at least one light re?ector.
US 7,215,412 B2
3 4
Another exemplary embodiment of the invention relates FIG. 9 is a side vieW of an example pole for mounting the
to a device for re?ecting laser light back to a laser range ?rst example re?ector device of FIG. 5.
?nder. The device includes, but is not limited to, a pole and FIG. 10 is a side vieW of a second example re?ector
a re?ector device. The re?ector device mounts to the pole. device mounted to the example pole of FIG. 9.
The re?ector device includes, but is not limited to, a ?rst FIG. 11 is a ?rst side vieW of the ?rst example re?ector
lateral surface having a ?rst exterior peripheral edge, a device of FIG. 5.
second lateral surface having a second exterior peripheral FIG. 12 is a second side vieW of the ?rst example re?ector
edge, a rod surface extending from the ?rst exterior periph device of FIG. 11 With the ?rst example device rotated
eral edge to the second exterior peripheral edge, a plurality approximately 90 degrees in a counter clockWise direction
of sockets, and a light re?ector mounted in each of the as vieWed from the top of the ?rst example re?ector device
plurality of sockets. The plurality of sockets are formed in of FIG. 11.
the rod surface and arranged in a plurality of roWs. TWo or FIG. 13 is a third side vieW of the ?rst example re?ector
more sockets are arranged in at least one roW of the plurality device of FIG. 11 With the ?rst example device rotated
of roWs. Aportion of light directed at the device from a laser approximately 180 degrees in a counter clockWise direction
is re?ected back to the laser by at least one light re?ector. as vieWed from the top of the ?rst example re?ector device
Still another exemplary embodiment of the invention of FIG. 11.
relates to a system for determining a distance to a target. The FIG. 14 is a fourth side vieW of the ?rst example re?ector
system includes, but is not limited to, a laser range ?nder, a device of FIG. 11 With the ?rst example device rotated
pole, and a re?ector device. The laser range ?nder is approximately 270 degrees in a counter clockWise direction
con?gured to send light at a ?rst time to the re?ector device, 20 as vieWed from the top of the ?rst example re?ector device
to receive a portion of the light re?ected from the re?ector of FIG. 11.
device at a second time, and to determine the distance from FIG. 15 is a perspective vieW of the second example
the laser range ?nder to the re?ector device using the ?rst re?ector device of FIG. 10 for mounting as an insert in a pole
time and the second time. The re?ector device mounts to the as depicted in FIG. 1.
pole. The re?ector device includes, but is not limited to, a 25
FIG. 16 is a bottom vieW of the insert of FIG. 15.
?rst lateral surface having a ?rst exterior peripheral edge, a FIG. 17 is a top vieW of the insert of FIG. 15.
second lateral surface having a second exterior peripheral FIG. 18 is a perspective vieW of a third example re?ector
edge, a rod surface extending from the ?rst exterior periph device.
eral edge to the second exterior peripheral edge, a plurality FIG. 19 is a side vieW of the third example re?ector device
of sockets, and a light re?ector mounted in each of the 30
of FIG. 18.
plurality of sockets. The plurality of sockets are formed in
FIG. 20 is a side vieW of the third example re?ector device
the rod surface and arranged in a plurality of roWs. TWo or
of FIG. 19 With the third example re?ector device rotated
more sockets are arranged in at least one roW of the plurality
approximately 72 degrees in a clockWise direction as vieWed
of roWs. A portion of the light directed at the re?ector device
from the top of the third example re?ector device of FIG. 19.
from the laser range ?nder is re?ected back to the laser range 35
?nder by at least one light re?ector.
Other principal features and advantages of the invention
approximately 144 degrees in a clockWise direction as
Will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon revieW
vieWed from the top of the third example re?ector device of
of the folloWing draWings, the detailed description, and the FIG. 19 and mounted as an insert.
appended claims. 40
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
vieWed from the top of the third example re?ector device of
The exemplary embodiments Will hereafter be described FIG. 19 and mounted as an insert.
With reference to the accompanying draWings, Wherein like 45
numerals Will denote like elements. The objects shoWn in the
?gures may not be draWn to the same scale.
FIG. 1 is an overvieW diagram of a distance measuring vieWed from the top of the third example re?ector device of
system in accordance With an exemplary embodiment FIG. 19 and mounted as an insert.
including a ?rst example re?ector device. 50
FIG. 24 is a side vieW of a fourth example re?ector device
FIG. 2 is a functional ?oW diagram of operations per mounted as an insert.
formed in the distance measuring system of FIG. 1 in FIG. 25 is a side vieW of the fourth example re?ector
accordance With an exemplary embodiment. device of FIG. 24 With the fourth example re?ector device
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the structure of an example rotated approximately 72 degrees in a clockWise direction as
55
re?ector of the distance measuring system of FIG. 1. vieWed from the top of the fourth example re?ector device
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a laser light reception and of FIG. 24 and mounted as an insert.
re?ection path for the example re?ector of the distance FIG. 26 is a side vieW of the fourth example re?ector
measuring system of FIG. 3. device of FIG. 24 With the fourth example re?ector device
FIG. 5 is a perspective vieW of a ?rst example re?ector 60 rotated approximately 144 degrees in a clockWise direction
device of the distance measuring system of FIG. 1. as vieWed from the top of the fourth example re?ector device
FIG. 6 is a top vieW of the ?rst example re?ector device of FIG. 24 and mounted as an insert.
of FIG. 5. FIG. 27 is a side vieW of the fourth example re?ector
FIG. 7 is a bottom vieW of the ?rst example re?ector device of FIG. 24 With the fourth example re?ector device
device of FIG. 5. 65 rotated approximately 216 degrees in a clockWise direction
FIG. 8 is a side vieW of the ?rst example re?ector device as vieWed from the top of the fourth example re?ector device
of FIG. 5. of FIG. 24 and mounted as an insert.
US 7,215,412 B2
5 6
FIG. 28 is a side vieW of the fourth example re?ector The re?ector device 56 may include, but is not limited to,
device of FIG. 24 With the fourth example re?ector device a ?rst socket 94, a second socket 96, a third socket 98, a
rotated approximately 288 degrees in a clockWise direction fourth socket 100 (not shoWn in FIG. 1), a ?rst light re?ector
as vieWed from the top of the fourth example re?ector device 102, a second light re?ector 104, a third light re?ector 106,
of FIG. 24 and mounted as an insert. and a fourth light re?ector 108 (not shoWn in FIG. 1). The
?rst socket 94, the second socket 96, the third socket 98, and
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY the fourth socket 100 have a siZe and shape su?icient to hold
EMBODIMENTS the ?rst light re?ector 102, the second light re?ector 104, the
third light re?ector 106, and the fourth light re?ector 108,
respectively. The ?rst light re?ector 102 is mounted in the
With reference to FIG. 1, a distance measuring system 50 ?rst socket 94. The second light re?ector 104 is mounted in
that includes, but is not limited to, a handheld laser range the second socket 96. The third light re?ector 106 is
?nder 52, a pole 54, and a re?ector device 56 is shoWn in an mounted in the third socket 98. The fourth light re?ector 108
exemplary embodiment. The laser range ?nder 52 includes, is mounted in the fourth socket 100.
but is not limited to, an aiming light source 58, a laser light With reference to the functional ?oW diagram of FIG. 2,
source 60, a laser light receptor 62, a measurement button the operations of the distance measuring system 50 are
64, and a handle 66. The aiming light source 58 transmits a
described. Additional, feWer, or different operations may be
light, for example a red light, toWard a current aiming point performed depending on the embodiment. A user aims the
so that the user can visually identify Where the laser range laser range ?nder 52 at the re?ector device 56 mounted in
?nder 52 is currently aimed. The laser light source 60 20 the re?ector pole 54 using the aiming light source 58. The
transmits laser light toWard the current aiming point When user depresses the measurement button 64 to determine the
the measurement button 64 is depressed by the user. The distance from the laser range ?nder 52 to the re?ector device
laser light may be transmitted in a series of laser light pulses. 56. In response and at operation 110, the laser light source
The laser light source 60 may be a Class 1 laser as knoWn 60 transmits pulses of laser light toWard the re?ector device
to those skilled in the art. A Class 1 laser is considered safe 25 56 at a ?rst time. At least one of the light re?ectors 102, 104,
based upon current medical knowledge. The laser light 106, 108 of the re?ector device 56 receives the transmitted
receptor 62 receives laser light re?ected back toWard the laser light pulses. The light re?ector receiving the transmit
laser range ?nder 52 from the current aiming point. The ted laser light pulses re?ects the laser light back toWard the
handle 66 provides the user With a grasping point for the laser light receptor 62. The laser light receptor 62 receives
laser range ?nder 52 and provides access to the measure 30 the re?ected laser light from the light re?ector at operation
ment button 64 While keeping the hands of the user aWay 112 at a second time. At operation 114, the laser range ?nder
from the laser light source 60 and the laser light receptor 62. 52 determines the distance from the laser range ?nder 52 to
The handle 66 may be held in the palm of the user’s hand. the re?ector device 56 based on the time difference betWeen
In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, the re?ector pole the ?rst time and the second time. The distance equals the
54 includes, but is not limited to, a ?rst end 70, a second end 35 time difference betWeen the ?rst time and the second time
72, a ?rst pole 74, a second pole 76, and an upright nut 78. divided by tWo and further multiplied by the speed of light.
The ?rst end 70 provides a surface to support the re?ector With reference to FIG. 3, a corner cube re?ector 130 is
pole 54 upright, for example, in a ?agpole stand placed at the shoWn. The comer cube re?ector 130 is cut from a comer
bottom of a golf hole. The upright nut 78 may be placed near 132 of a cube of glass 134. The comer cube re?ector 130 has
the ?rst end 70 to provide additional support for the re?ector 40 three mutually orthogonal re?ecting faces 136, 138, 140 and
pole 54, for example, When the ?rst end 70 of the re?ector an entrance/exit face 142. With reference to FIG. 4, a ray of
pole 54 is placed in the golf hole. The second end 72 is light 144 entering the entrance/exit face 142 undergoes three
opposite the ?rst end 70. The ?rst pole 74 extends from the internal re?ections, one re?ection from each of the three
?rst end 70 to a ?rst mounting end 80. The second pole 76 mutually orthogonal re?ecting faces 136, 138, 140. After the
extends from a second mounting end 82 to the second end 45 third re?ection, a ray of light 146 exits the entrance/exit face
72. 142 in the opposite direction of the original incoming ray of
In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, the re?ector light 144.
device 56 is mounted to the re?ector pole 54 betWeen the The retro-re?ective behavior of the corner cube re?ector
?rst mounting end 80 of the ?rst pole 74 and the second 130 is independent of the orientation angle betWeen the
mounting end 82 of the second pole 76. As used in this 50 corner cube re?ector and the ray of light incident on the
disclosure, the term “mount” includes join, unite, connect, entrance/exit face 142. The retro-re?ective behavior
associate, insert, hang, hold, a?ix, attach, fasten, bind, paste, depends only on the accuracy of the squareness of the comer
secure, bolt, screW, rivet, solder, Weld, and other like terms. 132. As knoWn to those skilled in the art, comer cube
The re?ector device 56 may be mounted in the re?ector pole re?ectors may also be knoWn as a corner cube, a trihedral
54 as shoWn in FIG. 1 or may be mounted to the second end 55 retro-re?ector, a trihedral prism, a corner cube prism, and/or
72 of the re?ector pole 54 as described With reference to a comer cube retro-re?ector. The light re?ectors 102, 104,
FIG. 10. The re?ector device 56 generally should be 106, 108 may be corner cube re?ectors formed from glass or
mounted a su?icient distance above the ?rst end 70 to alloW other similarly re?ective material. Use of the comer cube
a laser range ?nder 52 to aim at the re?ector device 56 from re?ector 130 for the light re?ectors 102, 104, 106, 108
the desired distance Without obstruction from the ground. 60 increases the amount of laser light that is re?ected back
Additionally, the re?ector device 56 should be mounted a toWard the laser light receptor 62 by reducing the amount of
su?icient distance above or beloW any other obstructions laser light that Would otherWise be scattered in directions
that may be attached to the re?ector pole 54. For example, other than back toWard the laser range ?nder 52. As a result,
the re?ector pole 54 may have a ?ag attached near the the laser range ?nder provides a more accurate and reliable
second end 72. If so, the re?ector device 56 should be 65 measurement of the distance.
mounted such that the ?ag Will not cover the re?ector device With reference to FIG. 5, a perspective vieW of the
56. re?ector device 56 is shoWn. The re?ector device 56 may
US 7,215,412 B2
7 8
further include, a ?rst lateral surface 90, a rod surface 91, on the siZe of the light re?ectors 102, 104, 106, 108. In an
and a second lateral surface 92 (not shown in FIG. 5). The exemplary embodiment, the diameter of the ?rst lateral
?rst lateral surface 90 has a ?rst exterior peripheral edge 93. surface 90 is approximately 0.625 inches, and the length of
The ?rst exterior peripheral edge 93 de?nes a shape having the rod surface 91 is approximately 3.375 inches. The
a ?rst center 108 shoWn in FIG. 6. The shape may be any entrance/exit face 142 of the light re?ectors 102, 104, 106,
shape including, but not limited to, circular, square, trian 108, in an exemplary embodiment, may be 12 millimeters in
gular, rectangular, hexagonal, etc. The second lateral surface diameter.
92 has a second exterior peripheral edge 95. The second With reference to FIG. 8, a side vieW of the re?ector
exterior peripheral edge 95 de?nes a shape having a second device 56 is shoWn. FIG. 9 depicts a side vieW of a re?ector
center 109 shoWn in FIG. 7. The shape may be any shape pole 160 in an alternative embodiment to the re?ector pole
including, but not limited to, circular, square, triangular, 54. The re?ector pole 160 includes, but is not limited to, a
rectangular, hexagonal, etc. The rod surface 91 extends from ?rst pole 162, a ?rst end 164, a second end 166, and a stem
the ?rst exterior peripheral edge 93 to the second exterior 168. The ?rst end 164 provides a surface to support the
peripheral edge 95. The ?rst socket 94, the second socket 96, re?ector pole 160 upright, for example, in a ?agpole stand
the third socket 98, and the fourth socket 100 are formed in placed at the bottom of a golf hole. The second end 166 is
the rod surface 91 and arranged in a plurality of roWs. In the opposite the ?rst end 164. The ?rst pole 162 extends from
exemplary embodiment, sockets in a roW have a common the ?rst end 164 to the second end 166.
distance from the ?rst center 108 to a center of the socket 94, The stem 168 extends from the second end 166 in a
96, 98, 100. Sockets in a roW may also have a common generally perpendicular direction. The socket 150 of the
vertical distance from the ?rst exterior peripheral edge 93 20 re?ector device 56 may be mounted to the stem 168 of the
and/or from the second exterior peripheral edge 95. As a re?ector pole 160. For example, FIG. 10 depicts a re?ector
result, the re?ectors 102, 104, 106, 108 are mounted in the device 182 mounted to the stem 168 of the re?ector pole
re?ector device 56 in a vertical stack and arranged to point 160. In an alternative embodiment, the stem 168 may have
in a direction rotated 90 degrees from an adjacent re?ector a diameter that is greater than or equal to a diameter of the
thereby providing 360 degrees of coverage relative to a 25 second end 166. The surface of the stem 168 may be
center axis extending from the ?rst center 108 to the second threaded. If the interior surface 151 of the socket 150 is
center 109. Thus, the laser light transmitted from the laser threaded, the surface of the stem 168 generally also is
range ?nder 52 re?ects from at least one re?ector 102, 104, threaded, and the thread of the stem 168 cooperates With the
106, 108 regardless of the pointing direction from the laser thread of the interior surface 151 of the socket 150. The stem
range ?nder 52 to the pole 54. Where a different number of 30 168 at the ?rst end 166 of the re?ector pole 160 may screW
light re?ectors is used, the light re?ectors may be separated into the socket 150 of the re?ector device 56. If the interior
by a different number of degrees to provide the 360 degrees surface 151 of the socket 150 is not threaded, the re?ector
of coverage. device 56 may slide onto the stem 168 at the ?rst end 166
FIG. 6 shoWs a top vieW of the re?ector device 56. FIG. of the re?ector pole 160. In an alternative embodiment, the
7 shoWs a bottom vieW of the re?ector device 56. In the 35 second lateral surface 92 may include a stem that extends
exemplary embodiment of FIG. 7, the second lateral surface from the second lateral surface 92. The second end 166 of
92 includes, but is not limited to, a mounting socket 150. The the re?ector pole 160 may include a socket that accommo
mounting socket 150 includes, but is not limited to, an dates the stem. The re?ector device 56 may slide into the
interior surface 151 and a third lateral surface 152. The socket at the ?rst end 166 of the re?ector pole 160. The stem
interior surface 151 extends in a generally perpendicular 40 and the socket may be threaded. If the interior surface of the
direction from an interior peripheral edge 154 of the second socket is threaded, the re?ector device may screW into the
lateral surface 92 to a peripheral edge 156 of the third lateral socket at the ?rst end 166 of the re?ector pole 160.
surface 152. The mounting socket 150 may vary in depth. In With reference to FIG. 10, the re?ector device 182 may
an exemplary embodiment, the depth of the mounting socket include, but is not limited to, a ?rst exterior peripheral edge
150 is approximately 0.875 inches. The interior surface 151 45 188, a second exterior peripheral edge 190, a rod surface
of the socket 150 may be threaded. The number of threads 191, a ?rst socket 192, a second socket 194, a third socket
of the interior surface 151 may vary. In an exemplary 196, a fourth socket 198 (not shoWn in FIG. 10), a ?rst light
embodiment, the number of threads is 24. In an alternative re?ector 200, a second light re?ector 202, a third light
embodiment, the number of threads is 16. re?ector 204, and a fourth light re?ector 206 (not shoWn in
The third lateral surface 152 extends from the interior 50 FIG. 10). The ?rst socket 192, the second socket 194, the
surface 151 toWard the second center 109. The third lateral third socket 196, and the fourth socket 198 have a siZe and
surface 152 may vary in siZe and shape. In an exemplary shape su?icient to hold the ?rst light re?ector 200, the
embodiment the third lateral surface 152 may be circular in second light re?ector 202, the third light re?ector 204, and
shape and have a diameter of approximately 0.375 inches. In the fourth light re?ector 206, respectively. The ?rst light
an alternative embodiment, the third lateral surface 152 may 55 re?ector 200 is mounted in the ?rst socket 192. The second
be conical to accommodate the second end 72 of the re?ector light re?ector 202 is mounted in the second socket 194. The
pole 54 as shoWn in FIG. 1. The interior surface 151 may third light re?ector 204 is mounted in the third socket 196.
slope from the interior peripheral edge 154 of the second The fourth light re?ector 206 is mounted in the fourth socket
lateral surface 92 to the peripheral edge 156 at an angle less 198. The re?ector device 182 shoWs an alternative arrange
than 90 degrees as measured relative to the second lateral 60 ment of the light re?ectors.
surface 92 pointed toWard the second center 109. FIGS. 11*14 shoW side vieWs of the re?ector device 56
The re?ector device 56 may be formed of aluminum or successively rotated in 90 degree increments to shoW the
any other material capable of holding the light re?ectors arrangement of the ?rst socket 94, the second socket 96, the
102, 104, 106, 108. The re?ector device 56 may be painted third socket 98, and the fourth socket 100 and the ?rst light
various colors, for example, White, yelloW, black, etc. The 65 re?ector 102, the second light re?ector 104, the third light
re?ector device 56 may be coated in re?ective material. The re?ector 106, and the fourth light re?ector 108 mounted in
dimensions of the re?ector device 56 may be adjusted based the corresponding socket 94, 96, 98, 100 in an exemplary
US 7,215,412 B2
9 10
embodiment. FIG. 12 shows the re?ector device 56 of FIG. 228, a rod surface 223, a second lateral surface 230, a ?rst
11 rotated 90 degrees relative to a center axis extending from socket 232 (not shoWn in FIG. 18), a second socket 234, a
the ?rst center 108 to the second center 109 in a counter third socket 236, a fourth socket 238 (not shoWn in FIG. 18),
clockwise direction as vieWed from the ?rst lateral surface a ?fth socket 239 (not shoWn in FIG. 15), a ?rst light
90. FIG. 13 shoWs the re?ector device 56 of FIG. 12 rotated re?ector 240 (not shoWn in FIG. 18), a second light re?ector
an additional 90 degrees in the same direction. FIG. 14 242, a third light re?ector 244, a fourth light re?ector 246
shoWs the re?ector device 56 of FIG. 13 rotated an addi (not shoWn in FIG. 18), and a ?fth light re?ector 247 (not
tional 90 degrees in the same direction. shoWn in FIG. 18).
In an alternative embodiment, a re?ector insert 180 may The ?rst lateral surface 228 has a ?rst exterior peripheral
be used as an insert in a re?ector pole 54 in the manner edge 229. The ?rst exterior peripheral edge 229 de?nes a
depicted in FIG. 1. With reference to FIG. 15, a perspective shape having a ?rst center. The shape may be any shape
vieW of the re?ector insert 180 is shoWn. The re?ector insert including, but not limited to, circular, square, triangular,
180 may include, but is not limited to, the re?ector device rectangular, hexagonal, etc. The second lateral surface 230
182, a ?rst stem 184, and a second stem 186. The re?ector has a second exterior peripheral edge 231. The second
device 182 may further include a ?rst lateral surface 187 and exterior peripheral edge 231 de?nes a shape having a second
a second lateral surface 189. center. The shape may be any shape including, but not
FIG. 16 shoWs a bottom vieW of the re?ector insert 180. limited to, circular, square, triangular, rectangular, hexago
The ?rst stem 184 may include, but is not limited to, a ?rst nal, etc. The rod surface 223 extends from the ?rst exterior
lateral surface 210 and a ?rst rod surface 212. The ?rst rod peripheral edge 229 to the second exterior peripheral edge
surface 212 extends from the ?rst lateral surface 187 of the 20 231.
re?ector device 182 in a generally perpendicular direction. The ?rst socket 232, the second socket 234, the third
The ?rst lateral surface 210 extends from the ?rst rod surface socket 236, the fourth socket 238, and the ?fth socket 239
212 forming a closed stem that may be solid. In an altema have a siZe and shape su?icient to hold the ?rst light re?ector
tive embodiment, the ?rst stem 184 may further include a 240, the second light re?ector 242, the third light re?ector
socket extending into the ?rst lateral surface 210 thereby 25 244, the fourth light re?ector 246, and the ?fth light re?ector
forming an open stem. 247, respectively. The ?rst light re?ector 240 is mounted in
FIG. 17 shoWs a top vieW of the re?ector insert 180. The the ?rst socket 232. The second light re?ector 242 is
second stem 186 may include, but is not limited to, a second mounted in the second socket 234. The third light re?ector
lateral surface 214 and a second rod surface 216. The second 244 is mounted in the third socket 236. The fourth light
rod surface 216 extends from the second lateral surface 189 30 re?ector 246 is mounted in the fourth socket 238. The ?fth
of the re?ector device 182 in a generally perpendicular light re?ector 247 is mounted in the ?fth socket 239.
direction. The second lateral surface 214 extends from the The ?rst socket 232, the second socket 234, the third
second rod surface 216 forming a closed stem that may be socket 236, the fourth socket 238, and the ?fth socket 239
solid. In an alternative embodiment, the second stem 186 are formed in the rod surface 223 and arranged in a plurality
may further include a socket extending into the second 35 of roWs. Sockets in a roW have a common distance from the
lateral surface 214 thereby forming an open stem. ?rst center to a center of the socket 232, 234, 236, 238, 239.
The re?ector device 182 may be formed of aluminum or Sockets in a roW may also have a common vertical distance
any other su?iciently rigid material. The re?ector device 182 from the ?rst exterior peripheral edge 229 and/or from the
may be painted various colors, for example, White, yelloW, second exterior peripheral edge 231. A plurality of sockets
black, etc. The re?ector device 182 may be coated in 40 may be arranged in a single roW. For example, sockets 232
re?ective material. The dimensions of the re?ector device and 238 are shoWn mounted in a single roW and sockets 234
182 may be adjusted based on the siZe of the light re?ectors and 239 are shoWn mounted in a single roW. The number of
200, 202, 204, 206. The light re?ectors 200, 202, 204, 206 sockets mountable in a single roW generally is constrained
may be comer cube re?ectors. In an exemplary embodiment, by the Width of the re?ector device in a radial direction
the diameter of the ?rst lateral surface 187 may be the same 45 parallel to the ?rst lateral surface 230. The light re?ectors
as the diameter of the second lateral surface 189 and may be 232, 234, 236, 238, 239 are arranged to point in a direction
approximately 0.625 inches. The diameter of the ?rst lateral rotated 72 degrees from an adjacent re?ector thereby pro
surface 187 may be different from the diameter of the second viding 360 degrees of coverage relative to a center axis
lateral surface 189. In an exemplary embodiment, the length extending from the ?rst center to the second center. Thus, the
of the re?ector device 182 along the rod surface 191 is 50 laser light transmitted from the laser range ?nder 52 re?ects
approximately 3.375 inches. The entrance/exit face 142 of from at least one re?ector 232, 234, 236, 238, 239 regardless
the light re?ectors 200, 202, 204, 206, in an exemplary of the pointing direction from the laser range ?nder 52 to the
embodiment, may be 12 millimeters in diameter. In an pole 54. Where a different number of light re?ectors is used,
alternative embodiment, the diameter of the ?rst lateral the light re?ectors may be separated by a different number
surface 210 of the ?rst stem 184 may be greater than or equal 55 of degrees to provide the 360 degrees of coverage.
to the diameter of the ?rst lateral surface 187 of the re?ector FIGS. 19*23 shoW side vieWs of the re?ector insert 220
device 182. In an alternative embodiment, the diameter of successively rotated in 72 degree increments to shoW the
the second lateral surface 214 of the second stem 186 may arrangement of the ?rst socket 232, the second socket 234,
be greater than or equal to the diameter of the second lateral the third socket 236, the fourth socket 238, the ?fth socket
surface 189 of the re?ector device 182. 60 239, and thus, the arrangement of the ?rst light re?ector 240,
In another alternative embodiment, a re?ector insert 220 the second light re?ector 242, the third light re?ector 244,
may be used as an insert in a re?ector pole 54 in the manner the fourth light re?ector 246, and the ?fth light re?ector 247
depicted in FIG. 1. With reference to FIG. 18, a perspective mounted in the corresponding sockets 232, 234, 236, 238,
vieW of the re?ector insert 220 is shoWn. The re?ector insert 239. Thus, FIG. 20 shoWs the re?ector insert 220 of FIG. 19
220 may include, but is not limited to, a re?ector device 222, 65 rotated 72 degrees about a center axis 248 in a clockWise
a ?rst stem 224, and a second stem 226. The re?ector device direction as vieWed from the second lateral surface 230.
222 may include, but is not limited to, a ?rst lateral surface FIG. 21 shoWs the re?ector insert 220 of FIG. 20 rotated 72
US 7,215,412 B2
11 12
degrees in the same direction. FIG. 22 shows the re?ector The re?ector device 262 may be formed of aluminum or
insert 220 of FIG. 21 rotated 72 degrees in the same any other su?iciently rigid material. The re?ector device 262
direction. FIG. 23 shoWs the re?ector insert 220 of FIG. 22 may be painted various colors, for example, White, yelloW,
rotated 72 degrees in the same direction. FIGS. 21, 22, and black, etc. The re?ector device 262 may be coated in
23 depict the re?ector insert 220 mounted in the re?ector re?ective material. The dimensions of the re?ector device
pole 54. 262 may be adjusted based on the siZe of the light re?ectors
The re?ector device 222 may be formed of aluminum or 280, 282, 284, 286, 287. The light re?ectors 280, 282, 284,
any other su?iciently rigid material. The re?ector device 222 286, 287 may be comer cube re?ectors. In an exemplary
may be painted various colors, for example, White, yelloW, embodiment, the diameter of the ?rst lateral surface 268 may
black, etc. The re?ector device 222 may be coated in be the same as the diameter of the second lateral surface 270
re?ective material. The dimensions of the re?ector device and may be approximately one inch. In an alternative
222 may be adjusted based on the siZe of the light re?ectors embodiment, the diameter of the ?rst lateral surface 268 may
240, 242, 244, 246, 247. The light re?ectors 240, 242, 244, be different from the diameter of the second lateral surface
246, 247 may be comer cube re?ectors. In an exemplary 270. In an exemplary embodiment, the length of the re?ector
embodiment, the diameter of the ?rst lateral surface 228 may device 262 along the center axis is approximately tWo
be the same as the diameter of the second lateral surface 230 inches. The entrance/exit face 142 of the light re?ectors 280,
and may be approximately one inch. In an alternative 282, 284, 286, 287 in an exemplary embodiment, may be 9
embodiment, the diameter of the ?rst lateral surface 228 may millimeters in diameter.
be different from the diameter of the second lateral surface The components of the example re?ector devices are
230. In an exemplary embodiment, the length of the re?ector 20 described above With reference to a generally circular or
device 222 along the center axis 248 is approximately tWo cylindrical geometry. It is understood, hoWever, that the
inches. The entrance/ exit face 142 of the re?ectors 240, 242, invention may take the form of various other geometrical
244, 246, 247 in an exemplary embodiment, may be 9 shapes, e.g., square, polygon, rectangle, triangle, etc. Addi
millimeters in diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the tionally, the re?ector device may include a stem and/or a
length of the ?rst stem 224 is equal to the length of the 25 socket for mounting to the re?ector pole either at the top or
second stem 226 and is 1.25 inches. In an exemplary Within the pole as an insert. Thus, for example, the ?rst
embodiment, the diameter of the ?rst lateral surface 250 of lateral surface of the re?ector device may include a stem
the ?rst stem 224 is equal to the diameter of the ?rst lateral While the second lateral surface may include a socket and
surface 254 of the second stem 226 and is 0.875 inches. In vice versa.
an alternative embodiment, the diameter of the ?rst lateral 30 The invention just described provides for the simple,
surface 250 of the ?rst stem 224 may be greater than or equal accurate, and reliable determination of the distance from a
to the diameter of the ?rst lateral surface 228 of the re?ector laser range ?nder to a re?ector device mounted at a desired
device 222. In an alternative embodiment, the diameter of target location. In an example use case, the re?ector device
the second lateral surface 254 of the second stem 226 may may be mounted in a ?agstick standing upright in a golf
be greater than or equal to the diameter of the second lateral 35 hole. Placement of the re?ector device in the ?agstick
surface 230 of the re?ector device 222. improves the accuracy and reliability of distance measure
In an alternative embodiment, a re?ector device 262 may ments determined in the laser range ?nder carried by the
be used as an insert mounted in the re?ector pole 54. With golfer by increasing the amount of laser light re?ected back
reference to FIGS. 24*28, the re?ector device 262 may toWard the laser range ?nder. It is understood that the
include, but is not limited to, a ?rst lateral surface 268, a rod 40 invention is not con?ned to the particular embodiments set
surface 263, a second lateral surface 270, a ?rst socket 272, forth herein as illustrative, but embraces all such modi?ca
a second socket 274, a third socket 276, a fourth socket 278, tions, combinations, and permutations as come Within the
a ?fth socket 279, a ?rst light re?ector 280, a second light scope of the folloWing claims. Thus, the description of the
re?ector 282, a third light re?ector 284, a fourth light exemplary embodiments is for purposes of illustration and
re?ector 286, and a ?fth light re?ector 287. The ?rst socket 45 not limitation.
272, the second socket 274, the third socket 276, the fourth What is claimed is:
socket 278, and the ?fth socket 279 have a siZe and shape 1. A method for determining a distance to a target, the
su?icient to hold the ?rst light re?ector 280, the second light method comprising:
re?ector 282, the third light re?ector 284, the fourth light sending laser light at a ?rst time from a device to a
re?ector 286, and the ?fth light re?ector 287, respectively. 50 re?ector device, the re?ector device mounted to a pole,
The ?rst light re?ector 280 is mounted in the ?rst socket 272. Wherein the re?ector device comprises:
The second light re?ector 282 is mounted in the second a ?rst lateral surface having a ?rst exterior peripheral
socket 274. The third light re?ector 284 is mounted in the edge;
third socket 276. The fourth light re?ector 286 is mounted in a second lateral surface having a second exterior periph
the fourth socket 278. The ?fth light re?ector 287 is mounted 55 eral edge;
in the ?fth socket 279. a rod surface extending from the ?rst exterior peripheral
FIGS. 24*28 shoW the re?ector device 262 mounted in the edge to the second exterior peripheral edge;
re?ector pole 54 and successively rotated in 72 degree tWo to four sockets, the tWo to four sockets formed in the
increments to shoW the arrangement of sockets 272, 274, rod surface and arranged in a plurality of roWs; and
276, 278, 279. Thus, FIG. 25 shoWs the re?ector device 262 60 a light re?ector mounted in one of the tWo to four sockets,
of FIG. 24 rotated 72 degrees about a center axis in a the light re?ector receiving a portion of the laser light
clockWise direction as vieWed from the second lateral sur and re?ecting the received portion of the laser light
face 270. FIG. 21 shoWs the re?ector device 262 of FIG. 20 back to the device;
rotated 72 degrees in the same direction. FIG. 22 shoWs the receiving laser light re?ected from the light re?ector at the
re?ector device 262 of FIG. 21 rotated 72 degrees in the 65 device at a second time; and
same direction. FIG. 23 shoWs the re?ector device 262 of determining the distance from the device to the re?ector
FIG. 22 rotated 72 degrees in the same direction. device using the ?rst time and the second time.
US 7,215,412 B2
13 14
2. A device for re?ecting laser light back to a laser range a ?rst lateral surface having a ?rst exterior peripheral
?nder, the device comprising: edge;
a ?rst lateral surface having a ?rst exterior peripheral a second lateral surface having a second exterior periph
edge; eral edge;
a second lateral surface having a second exterior periph a rod surface extending from the ?rst exterior peripheral
eral edge; edge to the second exterior peripheral edge;
a rod surface extending from the ?rst exterior peripheral tWo to four sockets, the tWo to four sockets formed in the
edge to the second exterior peripheral edge; rod surface and arranged in a plurality of roWs; and
tWo to four sockets, the tWo to four sockets formed in the a light re?ector mounted in each of the tWo to four
rod surface and arranged in a plurality of roWs; and sockets, Whereby a portion of the laser light directed at
a light re?ector mounted in each of the tWo to four the re?ector device from the laser range ?nder is
sockets, Whereby a portion of laser light directed at the re?ected back to the laser range ?nder by at least one
device from a laser is re?ected back to the laser by at light re?ector.
least one light re?ector. 13. A method for determining a distance to a target, the
3. The device of claim 2, further comprising a ?rst
method comprising:
mounting socket, the ?rst mounting socket extending from
sending laser light at a ?rst time from a device to a
the ?rst lateral surface, Wherein a ?rst stem at an end of a
re?ector device, the re?ector device mounted to a pole,
?rst pole is capable of insertion in the ?rst mounting socket. Wherein the re?ector device comprises:
4. The device of claim 3, Wherein an interior surface of the
a ?rst lateral surface having a ?rst exterior peripheral
?rst mounting socket is threaded. edge;
20
5. The device of claim 3, further comprising a second
a second lateral surface having a second exterior periph
mounting socket, the second mounting socket extending eral edge;
from the second lateral surface, Wherein a ?rst stem at an end
a rod surface extending from the ?rst exterior peripheral
of a second pole is capable of insertion in the second
edge to the second exterior peripheral edge;
mounting socket. a plurality of sockets, the plurality of sockets formed in
25
6. The device of claim 5, Wherein an interior surface of the
the rod surface and arranged in a plurality of roWs,
second mounting socket is threaded. Wherein tWo or more sockets are arranged in at least
7. The device of claim 2, further comprising a ?rst stem, one roW of the plurality of roWs; and
the ?rst stem extending from the ?rst lateral surface in a a light re?ector mounted in one of the plurality of sockets,
direction opposite the ?rst lateral surface, Wherein the ?rst the light re?ector receiving a portion of the laser light
30
stem is capable of insertion in a ?rst socket at an end of a and re?ecting the received portion of the laser light
?rst pole. back to the device;
8. The device of claim 7, Wherein an exterior surface of receiving laser light re?ected from the light re?ector at the
the ?rst stem is threaded. device at a second time; and
9. The device of claim 7, further comprising a second determining the distance from the device to the re?ector
35
stem, the second stem extending from the second lateral device using the ?rst time and the second time.
surface in a direction opposite the second lateral surface, 14. A device for re?ecting laser light back to a laser range
Wherein the second stem is capable of insertion in a ?rst ?nder, the device comprising:
socket at an end of a second pole. a ?rst lateral surface having a ?rst exterior peripheral
10. The device of claim 9, Wherein an exterior surface of edge;
40
the second stem is threaded. a second lateral surface having a second exterior periph
11. A device for re?ecting laser light back to a laser range eral edge;
?nder, the device comprising: a rod surface extending from the ?rst exterior peripheral
a pole; and edge to the second exterior peripheral edge;
a re?ector device, the re?ector device mounted to the pole a plurality of sockets, the plurality of sockets formed in
45
and comprising: the rod surface and arranged in a plurality of roWs,
a ?rst lateral surface having a ?rst exterior peripheral Wherein tWo or more sockets are arranged in at least
edge; one roW of the plurality of roWs; and
a second lateral surface having a second exterior periph a light re?ector mounted in each of the plurality of
eral edge; sockets, Whereby a portion of laser light directed at the
a rod surface extending from the ?rst exterior peripheral 50
device from a laser is re?ected back to the laser by at
edge to the second exterior peripheral edge; least one light re?ector.
tWo to four sockets, the tWo to four sockets formed in the 15. The device of claim 14, further comprising a ?rst
rod surface and arranged in a plurality of roWs; and mounting socket, the ?rst mounting socket extending from
a light re?ector mounted in each of the tWo to four the ?rst lateral surface, Wherein a ?rst stem at an end of a
sockets, Whereby a portion of laser light directed at the 55
?rst pole is capable of insertion in the ?rst mounting socket.
least one light re?ector. 16. The device of claim 15, Wherein an interior surface of
12. A system for determining a distance to a target, the the ?rst mounting socket is threaded.
system comprising: 17. The device of claim 15, further comprising a second
a laser range ?nder, the laser range ?nder con?gured to: 60 mounting socket, the second mounting socket extending
send laser light at a ?rst time to a re?ector device; from the second lateral surface, Wherein a ?rst stem at an end
receive a portion of the laser light re?ected from the of a second pole is capable of insertion in the second
re?ector device at a second time; and mounting socket.
determine the distance from the laser range ?nder to the 18. The device of claim 17, Wherein an interior surface of
re?ector device using the ?rst time and the second time; 65 the second mounting socket is threaded.
a pole; and 19. The device of claim 14, further comprising a ?rst
the re?ector device mounted to the pole and comprising: stem, the ?rst stem extending from the ?rst lateral surface in
US 7,215,412 B2
15 16
a direction opposite the ?rst lateral surface, Wherein the ?rst 24. A system for determining a distance to a device, the
stem is capable of insertion in a ?rst socket at an end of a system comprising:
?rst pole. a laser range ?nder, the laser range ?nder con?gured to:
20. The device of claim 19, Wherein an exterior surface of
the ?rst stem is threaded. send laser light at a ?rst time to a re?ector device;
21. The device of claim 19, further comprising a second receive a portion of the laser light re?ected from the
stem, the second stem extending from the second lateral re?ector device at a second time; and
surface in a direction opposite the second lateral surface, determine the distance from the laser range ?nder to the
Wherein the second stem is capable of insertion in a ?rst re?ector device using the ?rst time and the second time;
socket at an end of a second pole.
a pole; and
22. The device of claim 21, Wherein an exterior surface of
the second stem is threaded. the re?ector device mounted to the pole and comprising:
23. A device for re?ecting laser light back to a laser range a ?rst lateral surface having a ?rst exterior peripheral
?nder, the device comprising: edge;
a pole; and a second lateral surface having a second exterior periph
a re?ector device, the re?ector device mounted to the pole eral edge;
and comprising:
a ?rst lateral surface having a ?rst exterior peripheral a rod surface extending from the ?rst exterior peripheral
edge; edge to the second exterior peripheral edge;
a second lateral surface having a second exterior periph 20 a plurality of sockets, the plurality of sockets formed in
eral edge; the rod surface and arranged in a plurality of roWs,
a rod surface extending from the ?rst exterior peripheral Wherein tWo or more sockets are arranged in at least
edge to the second exterior peripheral edge; one roW of the plurality of roWs; and
a plurality of sockets, the plurality of sockets formed in a light re?ector mounted in one of the plurality of sockets,
the rod surface and arranged in a plurality of roWs,
Wherein tWo or more sockets are arranged in at least
25 Whereby a portion of the laser light directed at the
one roW of the plurality of roWs; and
re?ector device from the laser range ?nder is re?ected
a light re?ector mounted in each of the plurality of back to the laser range ?nder by at least one light
sockets, Whereby a portion of laser light directed at the re?ector.
least one light re?ector.
Exhibit B
USO0D564405S
(12) United States Design Patent (10) Patent No.: US D564,405 S

O’Loughlin et a]. (45) Date of Patent: *1, Mar. 18, 2008
(54) FLAGPOLE REFLECTOR FIG. 4 is a third side vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 1, With
(75) Inventors: Robert F. O’Loughlin, Madison, WI the ?agpole re?ector rotated approximately 90 degrees from
(US); Michael D. Plitman, the vieW of FIG. 3;
Minneapolis, MN (US); Daniel Steiner, FIG. 5 is a fourth side vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 1,
Waunakee, WI (US); Wayne With the ?agpole re?ector rotated approximately 90 degrees
Timberman, Carmel, IN (US) from the vieW of FIG. 4;
(73) Assignee: Golf Solutions I, L.L.C., Madison, WI FIG. 6 is a top vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 1;
(Us) FIG. 7 is a bottom vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 1;
(**) Term: 14 Years FIG. 8 is a perspective vieW of a second embodiment of the
(21) Appl. No.: 29/276,640 claimed design;
(22) Filed: Jan. 31, 2007 FIG. 9 is a ?rst side vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 8;
(51) LOC (8) Cl. ............................................... .. 11-05 FIG. 10 is a second side vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 8,
(52) US. Cl. ................................................... .. D11/181 With the ?agpole re?ector rotated approximately 90 degrees
from the vieW of FIG. 9;
(58) Field of Classi?cation Search ..... .. Bil/1654167,
D11/18(L183; 116/173*175, 202; D10/70; FIG. 11 is a third side vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 8,
D21/759, 790; 362/190, 296 With the ?agpole re?ector rotated approximately 90 degrees
See application ?le for complete search history. from the vieW of FIG. 10;
(56) References Cited FIG. 12 is a fourth side vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 8,
With the ?agpole re?ector rotated approximately 90 degrees
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS from the vieW of FIG. 11;
D242,775 S * 12/1976 Williams, Jr. .............. .. DID/7O FIG. 13 is a top vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 8;
(Continued) FIG. 14 is a bottom vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 8;
OTHER PUBLICATIONS FIG. 15 is a perspective vieW of a third embodiment of the
claimed design;
Internet World Wide Web Page, wwwlaserlinkgolfcom/ FIG. 16 is a ?rst side vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 15;
smartyPressRelease.htrn, dated Jan. 12, 2005.
FIG. 17 is a second side vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 15,
Primary Examinerilan Simmons With the ?agpole re?ector rotated approximately 90 degrees
Assistant ExamineriAnhdao Doan from the vieW of FIG. 16;
(74) Attorney, Agent, or FirmiFoley & Lardner LLP
FIG. 18 is a third side vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 15,
(57) CLAIM With the ?agpole re?ector rotated approximately 90 degrees
We claim the ornamental design for a ?agpole re?ector, as FIG. 19 is a fourth side vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 15,
shoWn and described. With the ?agpole re?ector rotated approximately 90 degrees
DESCRIPTION FIG. 20 is a top vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 15; and,
FIG. 1 is a perspective vieW of a ?rst embodiment of the FIG. 21 is a bottom vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 15.
claimed design; The broken lines in FIGS. 145, 7412, 14419, and 21 are for
FIG. 2 is a ?rst side vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 1; illustrative purposes only and form no part of the claimed
FIG. 3 is a second side vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 1, design.
With the ?agpole re?ector rotated approximately 90 degrees
from the vieW of FIG. 2; 1 Claim, 9 Drawing Sheets
US D564,405 S
Page 2
US. PATENT DOCUMENTS 6,346,055 B1 * 2/2002 Rege ........................ .. 473/199

D526,930 S * 8/2006 Plitman ................... .. D11/182
4,136,394 A * 1/1979 Jones et a1. ............... .. 367/108
4,905,624 A * 3/1990 Krolzick ................... .. 116/173
D379,436 S * 5/1997 Palmer .................... .. D10/l09 * cited by examiner
U.S. Patent Mar. 18, 2008 Sheet 1 0f 9 US D564,405 S
<\1
a
Wu
“\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\
Il/ ;
.\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\
U S. Patent Mar. 18, 2008 Sheet 4 0f 9 US D564,405 S
W31“mmmm“WNW ' ' mmmmm,

-r10
I/f .
a. '
'1)
1 /,‘1.
FAIJRV.
r1,4. un/1
\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\w§

a\~~~~
Exhibit C
USO0D546243 S
(12) United States Design Patent (10) Patent No.: US D546,243 S

O’Loughlin et al. (45) Date of Patent: *1. Jul. 10, 2007
(54) FLAGSTICK REFLECTOR OTHER PUBLICATIONS

Internet World Wide Web Page , http://WWW.laserlinkg0lf.c0m,
(75) Inventors: Robert F. O’Loughlin, Madison, WI printed Oct. 22, 2004.
(US); Michael Plitman, Minneapolis,
MN (US); Daniel Steiner, Waunakee, * cited by examiner
WI (US); Wayne Timberman, Carmel, Primary ExamineriLouis S. Zarfas
IN (US) Assistant ExamineriAnhdao Doan
(74) Attorney, Agent, or FirmiFoley & Lardner, LLP
(73) Assignee: Golf Solutions 1, L.L.C., Madison, WI
(Us) (57) CLAIM
(**) Term: 14 Years We claim the ornamental design for a ?agstick re?ector, as
shoWn and described.
(21) Appl. No.: 29/212,569
DESCRIPTION
(22) Filed: Sep. 2, 2004
FIG. 1 is a perspective vieW of the claimed design;
FIG. 2 is a top vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 1;
(51) LOC (8) Cl. ............................................... .. 11-05
FIG. 3 is a bottom vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 1;
(52) US. Cl. ................................................... .. D11/181
FIG. 4 is a ?rst side vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 1;
FIG. 5 is a second side vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 1,
(58) Field of Classi?cation Search ..... .. D11/165*168, With the ?agstick re?ector rotated approximately 72 degrees
D11/181A183; 116/173*175; 248/519, 538; from the vieW of FIG. 4;
362/190, 296; 356/401; 473/199, 409; FIG. 6 is a third side vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 1, With
D10/70 the ?agstick re?ector rotated approximately 72 degrees from
See application ?le for complete search history. the vieW of FIG. 5;
FIG. 7 is a fourth side vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 1,
(56) References Cited With the ?agstick re?ector rotated approximately 72 degrees
from the vieW of FIG. 6; and,
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
FIG. 8 is a ?fth side vieW of the embodiment of FIG. 1, With
D242,775 S * 12/1976 Williams, Jr. .............. .. D10/70 the ?agstick re?ector rotated approximately 72 degrees from
4,136,394 A * 1/1979 Jones et a1. ..... . . . .. 702/159
the vieW of FIG. 7.
6,062,985 A * 5/2000 Rege ........................ .. 473/199 The broken lines in the drawings are for illustrative purposes
6,346,055 B1* 2/2002 Rege ........................ .. 473/409 only and form no part of the claimed design.
D465,174 S * 11/2002 Ursprung ................. .. D11/165
2005/0272515 A1* 12/2005 Hurley et a1. ............. .. 473/173 1 Claim, 2 Drawing Sheets
U.S. Patent Jul. 10, 2007 Sheet 1 of2 US D546,243 S
FIG. 3
FIG. 5
U.S. Patent Jul. 10, 2007 Sheet 2 0f 2 US D546,243 S
FIG. 6 FIG. 7
FIG. 8
Exhibit D
Laser Link Golf Products :: Beacon

HOME PRODUCTS LASER LINK COURSES COMPANY CONTACT CUSTOMER CARE STORE
RANGEFINDERS: XL1000 RH2 QUICKSHOT 2.0 SWITCH TOUR SLOPE REFLECTORS: BEACON
SMART STICK
The BEACON
The best flagstick reflector in golf!
Over 17 years ago, Laser Link Golf invented the prism flagstick reflector as a way to
make laser rangefinders the fastest, simplest, and most accurate way to measure
distance. The prism reflector is superior to all other reflector products in the golf market,
and we are proud to offer the best version in the business. For warranty information,
click here.
• Specially treated prisms that help repel water,

dirt, and chemicals - All of our prisms are
treated with a nanostructured glass treatment
to provide not only water, dirt, and chemical
repellant, but also abrasion/scratch resistance
and UV resistance. Your reflectors will work
better, and require less maintenance, than
other prism products.
• Five-prism design for 360-degree coverage
• LIFETIME WARRANTY - The best warranty

available. Buy the BEACON with confidence
that it will last.
• Strip-resistant metal threading
REGISTER YOUR RANGEFINDER REBATES REPAIRS CONTACT US MANUALS TRADE FOR THE UPGRADE
©2017, All rights reserved.
Exhibit D - Page 1
http://www.laserlinkgolf.com/products_beacon.php[12/5/2017 6:08:47 PM]
BEACON Flagstick Reflector
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Product List
BEACON Flagstick Reflector
Over 17 years ago, Laser Link Golf invented the prism flagstick reflector as a
way to make laser rangefinders the fastest, simplest, and most accurate
way to measure distance. The prism reflector is superior to all other
reflector products in the golf market, and we are the proud to offer the
best version in the business.

The BEACON features include:
Specially treated prisms that repel water, dirt, and chemicals -

All of our prisms are treated with a nanostructured glass treatment to
provide not only water, dirt, and chemical repellent, but also
abrasion/scratch resistance and UV resistance. Your reflectors will
work better, and require less maintenance, than other reflector
products.
Five-prism design for 360-degree coverage
No warranty for the accuracy of product image or description.
LIFETIME WARRANTY
Publisher 0315
Strip-resistant metal threading
Same day shipping - Order before 12pm and your order ships that
Price $29.00 day!
Saturday delivery with the US Postal Service.

Select Options THE BEST PRICE!
Measurements: 1.75" height x .875" wide
Coupon
Quantity
1
Privacy Policy
Exhibit D - Page 2
https://store.laserlinkgolf.com/Store/tabid/71/CategoryID/2/List/0/Level/a/productid/144/Default.aspx?SortField=Free2%2cProductName[12/5/2017 6:30:12 PM]
THE BEST FLAGSTICK

REFLECTOR IN GOLF!
Over 17 years ago, Laser Link Golf invented the prism flagstick reflector as a way to
make laser rangefinders the fastest, simplest, and most accurate way to measure distance.
The prism reflector is superior to all other reflector products in the golf market, and we are
proud to offer the best version in the business.
The BEACON features include:
• S
pecially treated prisms that help repel
water, dirt, and chemicals - All of our prisms are
treated with a nanostructured glass treatment to provide
not only water, dirt, and chemical repellent, but also
abrasion/scratch resistance and UV resistance. Your
reflectors will work better, and require less maintenance,
than other prism products.

• Five-prism design for 360-degree coverage

• LIFETIME WARRANTY - The best warranty available.
Buy the BEACON with confidence that it will last.

• Strip-resistant metal threading

• Same day shipping - Order before
12pm, and your order ships that day!

• Saturday delivery

• THE BEST PRICE
GET YOUR FLAGSTICK TOP REFLECTORS FROM

THE COMPANY THAT INVENTED THEM!
Visit www.laserlinkgolf.com for more information. (866) 909-4653
Exhibit D - Page 3
AO 440 (Rev. 06/12) Summons in a Civil Action
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT

for the
Western District
__________ DistrictofofWisconsin
__________
PRESTIGE FLAG MFG. CO., INC., )

a California corporation, )
)
)
Plaintiff(s) )
)
v. Civil Action No.
)
GOLF SOLUTIONS I, LLC, )
a Wisconsin limited liability company )
doing business as Laser Link Golf, )
)
Defendant(s) )
SUMMONS IN A CIVIL ACTION
To: (Defendant’s name and address) GOLF SOLUTIONS I, LLC,

5315 VOGES ROAD
MADISON , WI 53718
Registered Agent: ROBERT F. O'LOUGHLIN
A lawsuit has been filed against you.
Within 21 days after service of this summons on you (not counting the day you received it) — or 60 days if you
are the United States or a United States agency, or an officer or employee of the United States described in Fed. R. Civ.
P. 12 (a)(2) or (3) — you must serve on the plaintiff an answer to the attached complaint or a motion under Rule 12 of
the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. The answer or motion must be served on the plaintiff or plaintiff’s attorney,
whose name and address are: GOLF SOLUTIONS I, LLC,
5315 VOGES ROAD
MADISON , WI 53718
Registered Agent: ROBERT F. O'LOUGHLIN
If you fail to respond, judgment by default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint.
You also must file your answer or motion with the court.
CLERK OF COURT
Date:
Signature of Clerk or Deputy Clerk
AO 440 (Rev. 06/12) Summons in a Civil Action (Page 2)
Civil Action No.
PROOF OF SERVICE
(This section should not be filed with the court unless required by Fed. R. Civ. P. 4 (l))
This summons for (name of individual and title, if any)

was received by me on (date) .
’ I personally served the summons on the individual at (place)

on (date) ; or
’ I left the summons at the individual’s residence or usual place of abode with (name)
, a person of suitable age and discretion who resides there,
on (date) , and mailed a copy to the individual’s last known address; or
’ I served the summons on (name of individual) , who is

designated by law to accept service of process on behalf of (name of organization)
on (date) ; or
’ I returned the summons unexecuted because ; or
’ Other (specify):
.
My fees are $ for travel and $ for services, for a total of $ 0.00 .
I declare under penalty of perjury that this information is true.
Date:
Server’s signature
Printed name and title
Server’s address
Additional information regarding attempted service, etc:
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Prestige Flag Mfg. v. Golf Solutions I - Complaint

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Prestige Flag Mfg. v. Golf Solutions I - Complaint

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Case: 3:18-cv-00098 Document #: 1 Filed: 02/13/18 Page 1 of 17

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT

PRESTIGE FLAG MFG. CO., INC.,

v. Civil Action No.

GOLF SOLUTIONS I, LLC,

PRESTIGE FLAG MFG. CO., INC.’S COMPLAINT FOR:

JURY TRIAL DEMANDED

8. Additionally, venue is proper within this judicial district because a

a first lateral surface having a first exterior peripheral edge;

a second lateral surface having a second exterior peripheral edge;

a light reflector mounted in each of the plurality of sockets, whereby a portion

18. On information and belief, the resemblance between Golf Solutions’

Patents) is such as to deceive an ordinary observer, giving such attention as a purchaser

Figure 8 Figure 4 BEACON

36. On information and belief, Prestige will suffer and is suffering

FOURTH CAUSE OF ACTION

mistaken or deceived as to the true source, origin, sponsorship, and affiliation of

52. Golf Solutions’ misappropriation of Prestige’s goodwill constitutes an

affiliates, attorneys, and all others acting in privity, active concert, or

Products or commercial activities of Golf Solutions with Plaintiff or the

Dated: February 13, 2018 Respectfully submitted,

SHEPPARD, MULLIN, RICHTER &

By: /s/ Bradley C. Graveline

Eric K. Gill (application for admission pending)

Counsel for Plaintiff

(12) United States Patent (10) Patent N0.: US 7,215,412 B2

(54) FLAGPOLE REFLECTORS FOR LASER 6,062,985 A 5/2000 Rege

(Us), Mlchael D‘ Plmean’ . . 2004/0223139 A1 * 11/2004 Vogel .................... .. 356/1411

U.S. Patent May 8, 2007 Sheet 1 or 10 US 7,215,412 B2

U.S. Patent May 8,2007 Sheet 3 0f 10 US 7,215,412 B2

U.S. Patent May 8,2007 Sheet 4 or 10 US 7,215,412 B2

U.S. Patent May 8,2007 Sheet 5 or 10 US 7,215,412 B2

U.S. Patent May 8,2007 Sheet 6 0f 10 US 7,215,412 B2

U.S. Patent May 8,2007 Sheet 7 or 10 US 7,215,412 B2

254 240 232 242 234 224 250

U.S. Patent May 8,2007 Sheet 8 0f 10 US 7,215,412 B2

U.S. Patent May 8,2007 Sheet 9 0f 10 US 7,215,412 B2

262 280 EEQLI.

U.S. Patent May 8,2007 Sheet 10 or 10 US 7,215,412 B2

(12) United States Design Patent (10) Patent No.: US D564,405 S

US. PATENT DOCUMENTS 6,346,055 B1 * 2/2002 Rege ........................ .. 473/199

U.S. Patent Mar. 18, 2008 Sheet 1 0f 9 US D564,405 S

U.S. Patent Mar. 18, 2008 Sheet 2 0f 9 US D564,405 S

U.S. Patent Mar. 18, 2008 Sheet 3 0f 9 US D564,405 S

U S. Patent Mar. 18, 2008 Sheet 4 0f 9 US D564,405 S

W31“mmmm“WNW ' ' mmmmm,

U S. Patent Mar. 18, 2008 Sheet 6 0f 9 US D564,405 S

U.S. Patent Mar. 18, 2008 Sheet 7 0f 9 US D564,405 S

U.S. Patent Mar. 18, 2008 Sheet 8 0f 9 US D564,405 S

U S. Patent Mar. 18, 2008 Sheet 9 0f 9 US D564,405 S

(12) United States Design Patent (10) Patent No.: US D546,243 S

(54) FLAGSTICK REFLECTOR OTHER PUBLICATIONS

U.S. Patent Jul. 10, 2007 Sheet 1 of2 US D546,243 S

U.S. Patent Jul. 10, 2007 Sheet 2 0f 2 US D546,243 S

• Specially treated prisms that help repel water,

• LIFETIME WARRANTY - The best warranty

• Strip-resistant metal threading

©2017, All rights reserved.

BEACON Flagstick Reflector

Specially treated prisms that repel water, dirt, and chemicals -

THE BEST FLAGSTICK

The BEACON features include:

GET YOUR FLAGSTICK TOP REFLECTORS FROM

AO 440 (Rev. 06/12) Summons in a Civil Action