US20110053716A1

US20110053716A1 - Golf disc

Info

Publication number: US20110053716A1
Application number: US12/874,535
Authority: US
Inventors: Neal R. Lewis
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2009-09-02
Filing date: 2010-09-02
Publication date: 2011-03-03

Abstract

A golf disc assembly includes a disc configured for flying upon being cast into the air and a sonic finding unit which is attached to the disc and which emits a sonic locating signal after the sonic finding unit conducts a delay of a predetermined amount of time.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a non-provisional application based upon U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/239,258, entitled “SONIC FINDING GOLF DISC”, filed Sep. 2, 2009, which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to flying objects, and, more particularly, to golf discs.
2. Description of the Related Art
Disc golf is an international recreational and professional sport. The game is similar to the traditional game of golf, except the “ball” is a flying disc thrown by the player and the “hole” is a basket or other predetermined target. Once thrown, a traditional disc must be found visually. Fairways of established disc golf courses must be suitably mowed and maintained to allow for visual finding of discs during play.
Disc golf courses are often located in multi-use parks that invariably have some fairways with closely adjacent rough areas with tall grass, thick leaves, or brush. Discs thrown into these types of roughs are difficult to find and are often lost. A lost golf disc delays the game while the player(s) search, and if not found, the lost disc must be replaced with a new purchase. Many internet web sites exist with pages dedicated to “lost and found” golf discs.
In addition to the annoyance and expense of losing golf discs on established courses, the locations where the traditional golf disc can be played is currently limited to public and private parks having large mowed areas allowing for visual finding of thrown discs. This prevents establishment of courses in otherwise available public natural areas because they do not permit or desire large areas to be mowed for suitable disc golf fairways. Those same currently unavailable natural areas for the game of golf disc are often under-used, with their managers desiring to increase public access.
What is needed in the art is a golf disc which carries a sonic beacon in a suitable manner, the sonic beacon being delay-activated.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a golf disc which carries a sonic beacon in a suitable manner, the sonic beacon being delay-activated.
The invention in one form is directed to a golf disc assembly which includes a disc configured for flying upon being cast into the air and a sonic finding unit which is attached to the disc and which emits a sonic locating signal after the sonic finding unit conducts a delay of a predetermined amount of time.
The invention in another form is directed to a method of using a golf disc assembly, the method including the steps of: providing a disc with a sonic finding unit attached thereto; flying the disc upon casting the disc into the air; conducting a delay of a predetermined amount of time by the sonic finding unit; and emitting, by the sonic finding unit, a sonic locating signal after the sonic finding unit conducts the delay.
An advantage of the present invention is that the sonic golf disc makes possible the development of courses in natural areas without detriment to the conservation values the park seeks to promote. For example, in a public park managed for tall grass prairie it would be improbable and extremely frustrating to play traditional disc golf because most throws will result in a visually lost disc. However, within this same natural area, a sonic finding golf disc makes enjoyable play possible along already established hiking trails, with thrown discs easily found in adjacent roughs by way of the sonic beacon.
Another advantage of the present invention is that it provides a golf disc with an attachment device that can be used to attach not only a sonic finding unit but also a variety of other accessories, such as, for example, a light element.
Yet another advantage of the present invention is that it provides a fully functional sonic finding unit and method for incorporating the sonic finding unit into the structure of a golf disc.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above-mentioned and other features and advantages of this invention, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and the invention will be better understood by reference to the following description of embodiments of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a side view of the golf disc assembly according to the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the golf disc assembly of FIG. 1, but also including a shock-absorbing element and a cover;

FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the golf disc assembly of FIG. 2, but omitting the cover;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side view of the golf disc assembly of FIG. 2 taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 3, the golf disc assembly including the shock-absorbing element and the cover, portions of the disc being broken away;

FIG. 5 is a top view of a sonic finding unit of FIG. 2, but also including a lighting element;

FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the sonic finding unit of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of the golf disc assembly according to the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional side view of the golf disc assembly of FIG. 7 with the golf disc assembly in an assembled condition, the cross-section being taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7, portions of the disc being broken away;

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of the golf disc assembly according to the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional side view of the golf disc assembly of FIG. 9 with the golf disc assembly in an assembled condition, the cross-section being taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 9, portions of the disc being broken away;

FIG. 11 is a side view of another embodiment of the golf disc assembly according to the present invention, the disc of golf disc assembly being shown in section, with portions broken away;

FIG. 12 is a bottom view of another embodiment of the golf disc assembly according to the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a top view of the sonic finding unit according to another embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 14 is a schematic view of the sonic finding unit according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set out herein illustrate embodiments of the invention, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIGS. 1-4, there is shown a golf disc assembly 20 which generally includes a disc 22 and a sonic finding unit 24, sonic finding unit being shown schematically in FIG. 1. Disc 22 can be, for example, a golf disc used in the game of disc golf. Disc 22 is configured for flying upon being cast into the air, cast being a general term for being thrown or otherwise hurled into the air. Disc 22 is a flying disc which glides through the air and is, thus, a disc-shaped glider which includes an outer circumferential portion 26 (rim 26) shaped as an airfoil, disc 22 flying through the air as it rotates. While FRISBEE® is trademark, it is also understood that disc 22 can be referred to generically as a frisbee. Disc 22 can be made of a plastic material (such as urethane) and can be injection molded. Thus, the terms “disc” 22 and “golf disc” 22 are used herein to describe any circular disc which is generally manufactured from molded plastic and is intended to be thrown for any recreational purpose, including the game of disc golf.
Sonic finding unit 24 is attached to disc 22. Sonic finding unit 24 is a unit which emits a sound (a sonic locating signal 28) so that disc assembly can be found by way of the emitted sound. Thus, sonic finding unit 24 emits sonic locating signal 28 (the sound/noise, which can also be referred to as a sonic beacon 28) which is loud enough to enable a person with normal hearing abilities to hear the sound from at least 50 feet to 100 feet away from sonic finding unit 24 for average conditions (or at least 120 decibels ten centimeters away from sonic finding unit 24); the sound 28 should not be so loud that the sound 28 is audible at the tee by following disc golfers. Upon hearing sonic locating signal 28, the person can locate disc assembly 20. Traditional golf discs are often visually lost during play on fairways with adjacent difficult natural or rough areas such as tall grass, heavy leaves, or brush. The present invention solves this problem. Thus, if the disc 22 is equipped with sonic finding unit 24, the disc 22 can be easily found through audible ways in those same conditions. Further, sonic finding unit 24 emits sonic locating signal 28 after sonic finding unit 24 conducts a delay of a predetermined amount of time. The delay can be considered a countdown to initiating emission of sonic locating signal 28. Disc 22 is designed to retain and protect sonic finding unit 24 from damage during play without significantly affecting the flight capabilities and aerodynamic qualities of disc 22. Sonic finding unit 24 can be small, lightweight, weight balanced and built into a water and shock resistant round low profile disc 22 or shell/case 32 which can optionally be wafer-shaped and plastic. Disc assembly 20 can use a lower end weight discs 22. Though the weight of disc assembly 20 can be very minimal, the reduction on gyroscopic effect from the centered rotational mass can be offset by selecting a disc 22 from models that already have the lightest interior centered mass so that the added unit and connector mass is offset by the comparatively increased weight at outer edge (rim 26) of discs 22. Sonic finding unit 24 can be formed so as not to exceed ten grams total weight.
According to one embodiment of sonic finding unit 24, sonic finding unit 24 includes a printed circuit board 34, a first switch 36, a battery holder 38, a battery 40 attached to said battery holder 38, and a programmable sonic beacon and timer device 42. FIGS. 2-4 show such a sonic finding unit. FIG. 4 shows components 36, 38, 40, and 42 schematically, it being understood that a non-schematic cross-sectional view in FIG. 4 taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 3 would not show first switch 36. FIGS. 5 and 6 show sonic finding unit 24 of FIGS. 2-4 but now also including light element 48. FIG. 5 shows sounder 54 and timer 52 of sonic beacon and timer device 42 shematically. FIGS. 7 and 8 show sonic finding unit of FIGS. 2-4 but now enclosing components 34, 36, 38, and 40 within case 32. FIG. 8 shows components 36, 38, 40, and 42 schematically, it being understood that a non-schematic cross-sectional view in FIG. 8 taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7 would not necessarily show all components 36, 38, 40, and 42 since half of circuit board 34 is included in FIG. 8. It is also understood that case 32 could house additional components of sonic finding unit 24, as discussed below. FIGS. 9 and 10 show sonic finding unit 24 of FIGS. 2-4. FIG. 10 shows components 36, 38, 40, and 42 shematically, it being understood that a non-schematic cross-sectional view in FIG. 10 taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 9 would not necessarily show all components 36, 38, 40, and 42 since half of sonic finding unit 24 is included in FIG. 10. FIG. 11 shows a side view of sonic finding unit 24 of FIGS. 2-4.
First switch 36, battery holder 38, and sonic beacon and timer device 42 are mounted to printed circuit board 34. Printed circuit board 34 is a frame or substrate which mechanically supports first switch 36, battery holder 38, and sonic beacon and timer device 42. Printed circuit board 34 can include electrical circuitry 44 which electrically powers any of the components of sonic finding unit 24 which are or can be powered by electricity 44 (such as any of the components of sonic finding unit 24 shown in the drawings). FIG. 6 shows that peg and solder attachments 46 can be used to attach, for example, first switch 36, battery holder 38 and/or battery 40, and sonic beacon and timer device 42 to printed circuit board 34. Printed circuit board 34 can include conducting layers of copper foil embedded in an insulating board which is made of laminated woven glass and epoxy resin. The components of sonic finding unit 24 can be electrically connected in series or parallel relative to one another as desired; for instance, in a simple design choice, first switch 36, battery 40, sonic beacon and timer device 42, and a light element 48 can be electrically connected in series. First switch 36 is an on/off switch which enables an end-user to turn the power on and off for sonic finding unit 24; that is, first switch 36 allows battery 40 to electrically power any of the components of sonic finding unit 24 which are or can be powered by electricity. Thus, first switch 36 is configured for selectively activating and deactivating (turning on and off, respectively) sonic finding unit 24 and thereby for selectively activating and deactivating (turning on and off, respectively) sonic beacon and timer device 42. First switch 36 can be one or more buttons, a dial, a slide, or the like. Battery holder 38 is a housing mechanism for holding and thus housing battery 40. Battery holder 38 can include electrical contacts which are electrically connected to circuitry 44 of printed circuit board 34 and thus also to battery 40 when battery 40 is installed in battery holder 38. Battery 40 can be a size N battery and produce 12 volts, for example. The end-user of disc assembly 20 can insert battery 40 into battery holder 38, remove battery 40 from battery holder 38, and replace battery 40 with another similar battery 40 into battery holder 38. FIGS. 5, 6, and 14 show that sonic finding unit 24 can include light element 48 and associated electronic circuitry 44. Light element 48, however, is optional and may be omitted from sonic finding unit 24, as shown in FIGS. 2-4, for instance.
Sonic beacon and timer device 42 is programmable and thus includes a controller 50. Sonic beacon and timer device 42 is electronic. Sonic beacon and timer device 42 further includes a sounder 52 (which can also be referred to as a sonic beacon, a noisemaker) and a timer 52. Sonic beacon and timer device 42 can further include a housing 56 which wholly or at least partly encloses sounder 52, timer 54, and a controller which controls the interrelationship of sounder 52 and timer 54. The controller of device 42, sounder 52, and timer 54 can be electrically powered by battery 40. The controller of device 42 can be controller 50 shown in FIG. 14( for example, when sonic finding unit 24 includes other electrical devices) or can be a lower level controller (relative to controller 50) which is assigned only to sounder 52 and timer 54. Sounder 52 is a noisemaker. Timer 54 is a timekeeping device—not necessarily in the sense of keeping the time of day but in the sense of tracking at least seconds. Timer 54 tracks the delay from initiation of the delay until completion of the delay, sonic locating signal 28 starting to sound immediately upon completion of the delay. Optionally, timer/sounder device 42 can be an off-the-shelf Sunbeam kitchen timer which sounds an alarm upon expiration of time (such a timer can weigh 27 grams, be 5 cm×6 cm in width and length, and be 1 cm thick) and be installed on 179 gram Rocs; a lighter weight timer/sounder device 42, however, can be used.
Sonic finding unit 24 is configured for emitting at least one initial signal 30 when first switch 36 is activated (when switch 36 is turned on to power sonic finding unit 24) and thereby for indicating a power level of battery 40. Initial signal 30 is different from sonic locating signal 28. Initial signal 30 can be a sound 30A produced by sounder 52, this sound being of relatively short duration; thus, sonic beacon and timer device 42 is configured for emitting at least one sonic signal 30A as at least one initial signal 30. Initial signal 30 can be used to indicate that sonic finding unit 24 is on, functioning, and has sufficient battery strength. If battery strength is low, then initial sonic signal 30A can have a correspondingly weaker sound than if battery 40 is at full strength; in other words, lower voltage from battery 40 causes sounder 52 to emit a weaker sound (both for the initial sonic signal 30A and for sonic locating signal 28). Initial signal 30 can be any variety of sonic signals of various durations. Sonic finding unit 24 can optionally include a light element 48 which is attached to printed circuit board 34 such that initial signal 30 can be a light 30B produced by light element 48, this light 30B being of relatively short duration or being continuous; thus, sonic finding unit 24 includes light element 48 which is mounted to printed circuit board 34 and is configured for emitting a light signal 30B as at least one initial signal 30 alternatively or in addition to the initial sonic signal 30A. Light element 48 can optionally be controlled by controller 50. Thus, sonic finding unit 24 can be provided such that when sonic finding unit 24 is activated sonic finding unit 24 does not audibly sound but instead displays a light 30B from light element 48 to indicate that sonic finding unit 24 is on and has sufficient battery strength. As the initial signal 30, light 30B of light element 48 can be displayed to indicate that sonic finding unit 24 is on, functioning, and has sufficient battery strength. A low battery strength could be indicated by light element 48 not illuminating or a distinctive sound when battery strength is near exhaustion. Light element 48 can be reasonably impact/shock resistant and reasonably water resistant to dews or lightly wet surfaces. Light element 48 can be a bright light emitting diode (LED) device or other low energy high lumen light. Light element 48 can be situated so that light element 48 can shine through both top and bottom of case of sonic finding unit 24. Further, a small LED light element 48 can blink to confirm sonic finding unit 24 is on, that the time delay countdown has started, and that sufficient power exists for the audible sound/alarm 28. If sonic finding unit 24 is turned off, the LED light element 48 can be off as well. Optionally, if battery power is low but sounder 52 is still operable, then LED light element 48 can come on but not blink. Alternatively, a lighted display 62 (such as a liquid crystal display 62) can serve as the light element of the present invention which provides the initial light signal 30B which confirms disc assembly 20 is ready to be thrown.
Sonic beacon and timer device 42 is configured for initiating the delay when first switch 36 is activated (when first switch 36 and thus sonic finding unit 24 is turned on). Alternatively, sonic beacon and timer device 42 is configured for initiating the delay when a second switch 58 of sonic finding unit 24 is selectively activated following first switch 36 being activated, as shown in FIG. 13. Second switch 58 can be a button, for example, and can provide input to controller 50 (or directly to timer 54, depending upon design choice) to activate the delay. Sonic beacon and timer device 42 emits sonic locating signal 28 after sonic beacon and timer device 42 conducts the delay, the emission of sonic locating signal 28 lasting until first switch 36 is deactivated (or unit battery power completely expires).
According to another embodiment of the present invention, light element 48 can emit a light signal 60 when sonic locating signal 28 is actuated, the light signal 60 being a repeating light or a continuous light. Stated another way, light element 48 can actuate at the same time as the repeating sonic beacon 28 (sonic locating signal 28) actuates. Thus, both sound and light can be used by end-user to locate disc assembly 20. Light element 48 can optionally be controlled by controller 50. Light element 48 can be a colored light.
Disc 22 includes a first wall 64 and a second wall 66. First wall 64 is disc 22 less second wall 66. Second wall 66 can be formed monolithically with first wall 64 by way of injection molding, first and second walls 64, 66 being made of the same plastic material (such as urethane); all of retaining cup 72 can be made of the same plastic material, such as urethane. First wall 64 includes an underside 68 and a rim 26. Rim 26 is the outer circumferential portion 26 of first wall 64. Second wall 66 depends from underside 68 and thus extends below underside 68. Second wall 66 includes an inside surface 70. First and second walls 64, 66 together at least partly form a retaining cup 72. Retaining cup 72 is shown in broken lines in FIG. 1. Retaining cup 72 is centrally located on underside 68 of disc 22. That portion of first wall 64 which is within the interior of second wall 66 forms a bottom wall of retaining cup 72; stated another way, the bottom wall of retaining cup 72 is a part of first wall 64. Rim 26 defines a substantially horizontal plane 74 which is positioned entirely below second wall 66 when disc 22 is in an upright position (FIG. 1 shows horizontal plane 74, and it is understood that horizontal plane 74 extends perpendicularly to the plane of the page of FIG. 1). Stated another way, the distal extent of second wall 66 is positioned above horizontal plane 74 when viewing disc 22 in the upright position; the outer transverse edge of second wall 66 is the distal extent of second wall 66, the transverse edge and thus also the distal extent of second wall 66 being the furthest portion of second wall 66 from first wall 64 relative to where second wall 66 connects to first wall 64. FIG. 1 shows disc 22, and thus also disc assembly 20, in the upright position. The upright position of disc 22 generally corresponds to the position of disc 22 during flight. Alternatively, the distal extent of second wall 66 can be formed even with horizontal plane 74. No part of second wall 66, despite the design option chosen, extends below horizontal plane 74; this configuration prevents second wall 66 from entering the drag stream during flight and protects the components of sonic finding unit 24 from underside strikes during play or storage. Second wall 66 forms a cylinder which is closed on the end of retaining cup 72 facing disc 22 and can be open or closed on the end of retaining cup 72 facing away from disc 22. Thus, retaining cup 72 can be open at its distal end (the end of second wall 66 which is furthest from first wall 64), as shown in FIGS. 3, 7, 8, 9, 10. Alternatively, retaining cup 72 can include a removable protective cover 76 which attaches to second wall 66 by way of a snap-fit arrangement or an interference fit. Cover 76 (which can be referred to as a lid) is shown as a circular shaped piece which is configured to match the shape of the top of retaining cup 72. The snap-fit arrangement (not shown) for cover 76 and second wall 66 can provide that cover 76 has a male friction protrusion around the interior circumference of cover 76 that snaps/catches on a reciprocal female groove on second wall 66; such a female groove can be defined by inside surface 70 of second wall 66, in the top/distal edge of second wall 66, or on the outer surface of second wall 66. Cover 76, which is shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, can be positioned so that cover 76 also lies above or even with horizontal plane 74 such that no part of second wall 66 or cover 76 lies below horizontal plane 74. Second wall 66 can be made of the same material as disc 22 and can be injection molded with disc 22 (so as to be formed monolithically with disc 22) or otherwise fastened to disc 22. Cover 76 can be made of the same material as disc 22 as well. Thus, retaining cup 72 can include alternatively a removable lid or cover 76 that snaps or otherwise fastens over second wall 66 of disc 22 to add further protection of sonic finding unit 24 during play and/or storage. Retaining cup 72 is shaped to capture sonic finding unit 24 (more specifically, printed circuit board 34, or a case 32 of sonic finding unit 24) and to retain sonic finding unit 24 with at least one attachment or retention feature 78, 80 of retaining cup 72. Retaining cup 72 easily accepts, securely retains, and protects electronics of sonic finding unit 24 from damage during play.
Retaining cup 72 defines an interior space 82 and includes a retention feature 78, 80 which retains sonic finding unit 24 entirely within interior space 82. As shown in FIGS. 2, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, second wall 66 is formed as a cylinder extending from first wall 64.
Second wall 66 of disc 22 protects the electronics of sonic finding unit 24 from underside strikes with ground objects during landing and elevated objects during flight. Objects or protrusions positioned on underside 68 of disc assembly 20 that are above (as disc assembly 20 is oriented in FIG. 1) horizontal plane 74 of disc rim 26 are wind friction neutral or drag neutral during flight. Therefore, the extension of second wall 66 on underside 68 of disc 22 is provided at or above (as disc assembly 20 is oriented in FIG. 1) horizontal plane 74 of disc rim 26 to avoid added wind resistance or drag during flight. The weight of sonic finding unit 24, retaining cup 72, and/or retention features 78, 80 are provided to be as low as practical, but still allowing for a sonic finding unit 24 that is capable of reliably powering a suitably loud beacon 52 for extended use while minimizing weight located in the center of disc assembly 20.
According to one alternative of retention feature, retention feature 78, 80 includes a ramped projection 78 projecting inwardly from inside surface 70 into interior space 82. Ramped projection 78 is essentially a triangular structure including a ramped section and a bottom section which is generally parallel with first wall 64. The ramped section slopes radially inwardly from second wall 66 into interior space 82 in a direction running from the distal end of second wall 66 toward the proximal end of second wall 66 (the proximal end being that portion of second wall 66 which is attached to first wall 64), ramped projection 78 thereby providing that retaining cup 72 can easily receive at least a portion of sonic finding unit 24. While FIGS. 2 and 3 show ramped projections 78 each forming a point at their respective distal ends (the free ends), the distal end of each ramped projection 78 could alternatively form a line which is as wide as the width of the base of ramped projection at the proximal end of ramped projection 78. Ramped projection 78 thus receives and retains sonic finding unit 24 within interior space 82. FIGS. 2, 4, and 5 show one embodiment of ramped projection 78, and FIGS. 7 and 8 show another embodiment of ramped projection 78. FIGS. 2 and 3 show that retaining cup 72 includes four ramped projections 78 spaced evenly around inside surface 70 of second wall 66, each ramped projection 78 positioned nearer first wall 64 than the distal extent of second wall 66. The four ramped projections 78 together form a friction lip 78 extending around inside surface 70 of retaining cup 72. As sonic finding unit 24 is inserted into retaining cup 72, the edge of printed circuit board 34 can compress or press back ramped projections 78. Once printed circuit board 34 passes bottom section of ramped projections 78, printed circuit board 34 enters a capture groove 84, and ramped projection 78 snaps back (or expands back) over the top of printed circuit board 34 to securely retain sonic finding unit 24 in place. Printed circuit board 34 can thus snap-fit over ramped projections 78. Ramped projections 78, second wall 66, and first wall 64 together define capture groove 84 which captures printed circuit board 34.
Capture groove 84 can be sized to provide space between printed circuit board 34 and first wall 64, that space being sized to hold a shock-absorbing element 86 (which can also be referred to as a shock-absorbing pad 86). Thus, disc assembly 20 can further include shock-absorbing element 86 positioned within interior space 82 between sonic finding unit 24 and first wall 64. FIG. 4 shows shock-absorbing element 86 positioned between printed circuit board 34 and underside 68. Shock absorbing pad 86 can be formed by an adhesive caulk, such as the super-elastomeric adhesive caulk referred to as Lexel. As a further example, shock absorbing pad 86 can be formed by silicone. The interior dimensions of retaining cup 72 and ramped projections 78 should securely capture sonic finding unit 24 but allow sufficient clearance to prevent sonic finding unit 24 from being too rigidly seated in retaining cup 72 and to allow flex between sonic finding unit 24 and disc 22 during hard rim strikes. This clearance is also used to accommodate shock absorbing pad 86 of pliable/flexible/elastic material between sonic finding unit 24 and first wall 64 which allows controlled flex between sonic finding unit 24 and first wall 64 during hard rim strikes. Thus, shock-absorbing pad 86 forms a shock-absorber between disc 22 and sonic finding unit 24 which reduces the potential for impact damage from rim strikes with fixed objects during play. That is, space between printed circuit board 34 first wall 64 of retaining cup 72 is substantially filled by shock-absorbing pad 86. The lateral clearance between the circumferential edge of printed circuit board 34 and inside surface 70 of second wall 66 of retaining cup 72, in one embodiment of the present invention, is not filled either; in other words, a space as shown in FIG. 4 remains between printed circuit board 34 and second wall 66 when printed circuit board 34 is centered in retaining cup 72 relative to inside surface 70 of second wall 66. The lateral clearance or space can remain open (providing for outer impact clearances) so that there is room for controlled movement of sonic finding unit 24 independent of disc 22. If the outer/lateral clearance/space is completely filled, then sonic finding unit would be too rigidly seated in retaining cup 72 and not have the ability for controlled movement within retaining cup 72 on impact. The clearance around the edge of sonic finding unit 24 is designed to allow for that movement. Thus, the clearance allows the impact shock to pass through disc 22 and to be directed around, instead of through, sonic finding unit 24. A suitable amount of adhesive flexible material forming the shock absorbing pad 86 can be located in the retaining cup 72 between disc 22 and sonic finding unit 24. This design including the clearance and shock-absorbing pad 86 reduces the potential for impact damage from hard strikes with fixed objects during play. It is understood that shock-absorbing element 86 can also be used with the embodiments of the present invention shown in FIGS. 7, 8, 9, 10, and 12.
FIGS. 7 and 8 show that retaining cup 72 alternatively includes a single ramped projection 78 about inside surface 70 of the distal end of second wall 66. This version of ramped projection 78 provides for a larger capture groove 84 defined by ramped projection 78, second wall 66, and first wall 64. A sonic finding unit 24 including a case 32 for holding the remaining components of sonic finding unit 24 wholly or at least partially within case 32 is shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 as being used with ramped projection 78. Case 32 can be waterproof (at least to dew and light rain). Case 32 can be made of urethane. Case 32 can optionally be a small wafer having a substantially flat top and bottom (but for any switches, displays, or control devices thereon). Case 32 can be formed so as not to exceed one centimeter in depth, not to exceed four centimeters in diameter, be sufficiently durable to allow case 32 and its contents to be mechanically pressed into retaining cup 72, be capable of withstanding regular insult from impact, and be reasonably transparent so that light element 48 can shine through case 32 (top and bottom sides of case, for instance, can be transparent). Top of case 32 (the side on which display 62 and any other devices as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 can be positioned) can have, for example, a diameter of forty millimeters, the opposing bottom side having a diameter of thirty-eight millimeters (the two millimeter difference providing a slightly inverted sonic finding unit edge to enhance the ability to press sonic finding unit 24 into a molded plastic retaining cup 72). Display 62 and any other devices shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 on top of case 32, as well as any battery hatch allowing access to battery 40 via case 32 (the battery hatch can be located on the top side as well), can be set back from the edge at least five millimeters. A clearance between sonic finding unit 24 and first wall 64 can be provided, which can optionally be filled with shock-absorbing element 86; a lateral clearance can also be provided between sonic finding unit 24 and second wall 66. Thus, sonic finding unit 24 can optionally include case 32, which can be waterproof and which encloses, for example, printed circuit board 34, first switch 36, battery holder 38, battery 40, and sonic beacon and timer device 42. A button associated with first switch 36 can be provided such that it extends from but is otherwise still enclosed by case 32 so as to be able to actuate sonic finding unit 24 inside case 32. Ramped projection 78 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 functions similarly to ramped projections 78 shown in FIGS. 2-4 so as to capture case 32 and thus sonic finding unit 24. Ramped projections 78 can also be referred to as friction lips.
According to another alternative of retention feature 78, 80 as shown in FIG. 8, retention feature 78, 80 of retaining cup 72 includes a projection 80 projecting inwardly from underside 68 of first wall 64 into interior space 82. Projection 80 can include a head 88 and a stem 90, head 88, stem 90, and first wall 64 defining capture groove 84 which captures printed circuit board 34. Head 88 can be sloped generally hemispherically. Projection 80 can also be referred to as a friction stud and can be positioned in the center of retaining cup 72. Printed circuit board 34 defines a through-hole 92 which receives projection 80 and thereby attaches sonic finding unit 24 to disc 22, through-hole 92 being a mating friction receiver. Head 88 of projection 80 can extend all the way through through-hole 92 and then snap-fit over printed circuit board 34. As sonic finding unit 24 is inserted into retaining cup 72, printed circuit board 34 forming through-hole 92 can compress head 88. Once printed circuit board 34 passes the lower edge of head 88, printed circuit board 34 enters capture groove 84, and the lower portion of head 88 snaps back (or expands back) over the top of printed circuit board 34 to securely retain sonic finding unit 24 in place. Thus, disc 22 can be modified to retain and protect sonic finding unit 24 by employing one or more projections 80 on disc 22 that fit into corresponding through-holes 92 on sonic finding unit 24. Conversely, one or more projections 80 can be provided on sonic finding unit 24 (i.e., on the bottom of printed circuit board 34), and corresponding holes (blind or through-holes) can be provided on disc 22 itself to capture these projections 80 (this embodiment of the present invention is not shown). A clearance between sonic finding unit 24 and first wall 64 can be provided, which can optionally be filled with shock-absorbing element 86; a lateral clearance can also be provided between sonic finding unit 24 and second wall 66. Other attachment ways can be used to attach sonic finding unit 24 to retaining cup 72; the essential criteria is that sonic finding unit 24 and retaining cup 72 be reciprocally shaped for easy capture and reliable retention of sonic finding unit 24 within retaining cup 72.
According to another embodiment of disc assembly 20 as shown in FIG. 11, disc assembly 20 does not include retaining cup 72. Rather, sonic finding unit 24 is simply attached to an unmodified disc 22 using an adhesive material 94. FIG. 11 shows a side view of sonic finding unit 24 of FIGS. 2-4 but shows first wall 64 of disc 22 in cross-section (along a sectional line taken in front of sonic finding unit 24 and not through unit 24), other portions of disc 22 being broken away in FIG. 11. Hook-and-loop fasteners, for example, can be used as adhesive material 94. Female VELCRO® can be located on the bottom of sonic finding unit 24, and male VELCRO® can be located on center underside 68 of disc 22, or vice versa. The male and female VELCRO® segments can be adhered to or otherwise fastened to one another. Alternatively, synthetic glues, adhesive caulks, or adhesive foams, for example, can be used as adhesive material 94 and can be located between sonic finding unit 24 and golf disc 22 to adhere sonic finding unit 24 and golf disc 22 together. Thus, the present invention can employ any other way of attaching sonic finding unit 24 to golf disc 22, including friction tape, adhesive, or VELCRO® as adhesive material 94 to affix sonic finding unit 24 to underside 68 center of any golf disc 22, including an unmodified golf disc 22. However, such attachment ways offer the least reliable attachment of sonic finding unit 24 to disc 22 and offer the least protection to sonic finding unit 24 during play. The present invention thus provides sonic finding unit 24 attached to or incorporated within golf disc 22 no matter what method of attachment is used. Thus, according to certain embodiments of the present invention, sonic finding unit 24 is attached to disc 22 not by way of a retaining cup 72 but by way of (a) a plurality of hook-and-loop fasteners 94 (i.e., VELCRO®), (b) a friction tape 94, or (c) an adhesive 94. FIG. 11 shows sonic finding unit 24 attached to underside 68 of disc 22 using such material 94, which can be hook-and-loop fasteners 94, friction tape 94, or an adhesive material 94 (by way of example and not by way of limitation, synthetic glues, adhesive caulks, or adhesive foams). Optionally, sonic finding unit 24 can be attached to disc 22 using any way of attachment thereto, with or without retaining cup 72, such ways including encapsulated molding of sonic finding unit 24 to disc 22 during manufacture of disc 22, or post-manufacture attachment of sonic finding unit 24 to disc 22 using the above-described ways, such as friction tape, hook-and-loop fasteners, or any other adhesive.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, components of sonic finding unit 24 are placed about the circumference 26 (more specifically, rim 26) of disc 22, as shown in FIG. 12. Thus, disc 22 includes a circumferential portion 26. According to this embodiment of the present invention, sonic finding unit 24 does not include printed circuit board 34. Rather, sonic finding unit 24 includes first switch 36, battery holder 38, battery 40 attached to battery holder 38, and programmable sonic beacon and timer device 42. First switch 36, battery holder 38, and sonic beacon and timer device 42 are distributed about and attached to circumferential portion 26, first switch 36, battery 40, and sonic beacon and timer device 42 being electrically coupled with one another using electrical circuitry 44 (i.e., wiring). First switch 36 is configured for selectively activating and deactivating said sonic finding unit 24 and thereby for selectively activating and deactivating said sonic beacon and timer device 42, as described above. Sonic beacon and timer device 42 is configured for emitting at least one initial signal 30 when first switch 36 is activated and thereby for indicating a power level of battery 40. Sonic beacon and timer device 42 is configured for initiating the time delay when first switch 36 is activated or when sonic beacon and timer device 42 emits at least one initial sonic signal 30. Sonic beacon and timer device 42 emits sonic locating signal 28 immediately after sonic beacon and timer device conducts the delay and until first switch 36 is deactivated. First switch 36, battery holder 38 (and thus also battery 40), sonic beacon and timer device 42, and circuitry 44 can be distributed around the interior rim 26 of golf disc 22 and located to achieve an evenly distributed rim weight. Generally, weight balanced discs 22 that keep the ratio of center weight low compared to the rim weight are capable of greater flight because of the centrifugal force imparted to the disc rim 26 during the throw. Relocating and evenly distributing the weight of components of sonic finding unit 24 in or near rim 26 makes the manufacturing process more complex and will reduce survivability of components of sonic finding unit 24 from impact during play because they will be closer to the rim area where disc 22 first suffers impact with fixed objects. The tradeoff is enhanced flight characteristics by reducing the centrifugal drag otherwise created by locating the weight of the components of sonic finding unit 24 at the center of disc 22. In this embodiment, the components of sonic finding unit 24 could be attached to golf disc 22 using any of the attachment ways described herein or by molding the components of sonic finding unit 24 directly into golf disc 22. FIG. 12 shows underside of golf disc 22 and three spaced apart receiving/retaining sockets 96—the battery holder receiving/retaining socket 96, the first switch receiving/retaining socket 96, and the sonic beacon and timer device receiving/retaining socket 96. Battery holder 38 is received by battery receiving/retaining socket 96 and attached thereto. The on-off first switch 36 is received by switch receiving/retaining socket 96 and attached thereto. Sonic beacon and timer device 42 is received by sonic beacon and timer device receiving/retaining socket 96 and attached thereto. For instance, each of first switch 36, battery holder 38, and sonic beacon and timer device 42 can be at least partially overmolded with (encapsulated by) disc 22 during the injection molding process forming disc 22; alternatively, each of these components 36, 38, 42 can be adhered to disc 22 within the corresponding sockets 96, as discussed relative to the embodiment shown in FIG. 11. Battery holder 38 (to which battery 40 can be removably connected), switch 36, and sonic beacon and timer device 42 can be connected to one another by wiring/circuitry 44 positioned around the inside periphery of the disc rim 26.
As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, sonic finding unit 24 can optionally include a device 98 configured for selectively setting the predetermined amount of time and thereby for selectively setting the delay until activation of sonic locating signal 28. An end-user can use this device 98 (such as a switch) to set the delay time (the silent countdown) for a preferred length of time. This device 98 can be connected to printed circuit board 34, to controller 50, to timer 54, and/or to other structure and include a button(s), dial, slide, or the like for an end-user to set the delay time. The delay options could be fixed options, such as thirty seconds, one minute, one and one-half minutes, and two minutes, for example. The first thrower in a group of disc golf players could set his/her time delay for the longest time delay option, while the last thrower in the group could set his/her time delay for the shortest time delay option (the group of players proceeding from the tee area after the last player throws his/her disc assembly). On the other hand, sonic finding unit 24 can omit this device 98, and the delay time can be set by the manufacturer. FIG. 13 shows that end-user can set the delay time to, for example, 180 seconds.
As shown in FIG. 14, sonic finding unit 24 can optionally include a device 100 configured for selectively setting a type of sound of said sonic locating signal 28. An end-user can use this device 200 (such as a switch) to set the type of sound. Any sound can be provided as options for the sound to be selected, such as beeps, whistles, sirens, bird noises, dog barks, cat meows, etc. This device 100 can be connected to printed circuit board 34, to controller 50, to sounder 52, and/or to other structure and include a button(s), dial, slide, or the like for an end-user to set the type of sound. On the other hand, sonic finding unit 24 can omit this device 100, and the type of sound can be set by the manufacturer.
As shown in FIG. 14, sonic finding unit 24 can optionally include a device 102 configured for selectively setting a rate of sounding of said sonic locating signal 28. An end-user can use this device 102 (such as a switch) to set the rate of sounding desired by the end-user, the rate of sounding being, for example, periodic and continuous; if the periodic option is desired, the rate of sounding may be pulsations of sound which occur every five seconds, every ten seconds, or at other intervals. This device 102 can be connected to printed circuit board 34, to controller 50, to sounder 52, and/or to other structure and include a button(s), dial, slide, or the like for an end-user to set the rate of sounding. On the other hand, sonic finding unit 24 can omit this device, and the rate of sounding can be set by the manufacturer.
As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, sonic finding unit 24 can optionally include a device 104 configured for selectively setting a volume of the sonic locating signal 28. An end-user can use this device 104 (such as a switch) to set the volume of the sonic locating signal 28 to a constant level (whenever sonic locating signal 28 is emitted, the sound is at the same volume) and to a level which increases over time (for example, the first few pulses of the sonic locating signal 28 can be at the same decibel level, but subsequent pulses of the sonic locating signal 28 can be at a higher volume). For instance, in conjunction with timer 54, sounder 52 could emit a sound 28 at an elevated volume after a second programmed delay to assist in finding golf discs 20 thrown into the most difficult or blind locations. This device 104 can be connected to printed circuit board 34, to controller 50, to sounder 52, and/or to other structure and include a button(s), dial, slide, or the like for end-user to set the volume of sonic locating signal 28 (the same volume control could also be used to set the volume of the initial sonic signal 30A). The volume setting options can optionally be fixed options, such as low, medium, or high. On the other hand, sonic finding unit 24 can omit this device 104, and the volume of sonic locating signal 28 (and, optionally, initial sonic signal 30A as well) can be set by the manufacturer. FIG. 13 shows that end-user can set the volume, display 62 showing volume being set to a point that is closer to high than low.
Sonic finding unit 24, as shown by FIG. 13 (and also in FIG. 14), can optionally include a display 62 configured for displaying a volume level of sonic locating signal 28 (which can be shown on a graduated scale between low and high volume, as shown in FIG. 13), a delay time countdown (displayed, for example, in seconds) to sonic locating signal 28 actuation, and/or a battery power strength (which can be shown on a graduated scale between weak and good), or other settings as well. These settings can be controlled by devices such as buttons, dials, slides, switches, controls, or the like; FIG. 13 shows a device 36 for turning sonic finding unit on and off, a device 98 for setting the amount of time delay to the predetermined time, a device 104 for setting the volume level, and a device 58 for activating the time delay countdown. In other words, the end-user can view information on this display 62 that informs the end-user of the status of sonic finding unit 24 and the status of these settings or other settings which are sent to display 62. Display 62 can be connected to printed circuit board 34, to controller 50, and/or to an outer casing 32 (which can be waterproof) which houses the other components of sonic finding unit 24. Display 62 can be a digital device. Display 62 can be a liquid crystal display (LCD) device or a like device that communicates the status of sonic finding unit 24 and settings. FIG. 13 shows that sonic finding unit 24 includes first switch 36, device 98 for setting time delay, device 104 for setting volume, and device 58 for activating the countdown (the time delay), LCD display 62 showing the volume level, the time delay, and the strength of battery.
FIG. 14 shows one embodiment of a control system formed by sonic finding unit 24. Sonic finding unit 24 can include each of these features or only some of these features. FIG. 14 shows that sonic finding unit 24 includes a programmable controller 50. Controller 50 can receive inputs from the following devices: first switch 36; a voltage and/or current sensor 106; device 98 for setting delay time of timer 54; device 100 for setting a type of sound; device 102 for setting the rate of sound emitted by sounder 52; device 104 for setting volume of sounder 52; and device 58 (second switch 58) for activating the countdown (the delay time), as well as timer 54. Controller 50 can send outputs to the following devices: timer 54; sounder 52; light element 48; and display 62. As an additional precaution, any of the user-activated devices 36, 58, 98, 100, 102, 104 and display 62 of sonic control unit 24 can be slightly inset to avoid unintended activation.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, sonic finding unit 24 can be provided that when activated emits any variety of sonic signals of various durations to indicate that sonic finding unit 24 is on and has sufficient battery strength.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, sonic finding unit 24 can be provided that has timing and sounding components that are entirely mechanical and driven by a wind-up spring and timing gears. This embodiment is not shown.
In use according to one embodiment of the present invention, sonic finding unit 24 of the golf disc assembly 20 is activated by way of on-off first switch 36 prior to throwing disc assembly 20. Upon activation of first switch 36, sonic finding unit 24 can be programmed (for example, programmed by the manufacturer) to emit one audible initial sonic signal 30A of one second duration to indicate that sonic finding unit 24 is on and has sufficient battery strength. Upon first switch 36 being activated or after initial sonic signal 30A sounds, sonic finding unit 24 can be programmed (for example, programmed by the manufacturer) to automatically begin the timed silent countdown (which is the predetermined time delay) to allow undisturbed throws by multiple disc golf players; the timed silent countdown has a predetermined duration, which can be, for example, sixty seconds. After disc assembly 20 has been thrown and the silent countdown expires, sonic finding unit 24 can be programmed (for example, by the manufacturer) to begin emitting a one second sonic beacon 28 (i.e., a noise)—sonic locating signal 28—which repeats every five seconds to allow the player to locate disc assembly 20 audibly. Thus, the repeating sonic locating signal 28 is delay-actuated, and can be so delay-actuated through use of a programmed electronic timer 54 operating within sonic finding unit 24 (specifically, within sonic beacon and timer device 42). Once the time delay expires, sounder 52 of sonic beacon and timer device 42 is electronically actuated and programmed to continue repeating sonic locating signal 28 until the end-user audibly locates disc assembly 22 and deactivates sonic finding unit 24. That is, sonic finding unit 24 continues emitting the repeating sonic beacon 28 (sonic locating signal 28) until the player finds golf disc assembly 20 and deactivates sonic finding unit 24 by returning first switch 36 to the “off” position.
The present invention further provides a method of using a golf disc assembly 20. The method includes the steps of: providing a disc 22 with a sonic finding unit 24 attached thereto; flying the disc 22 upon casting the disc into the air; conducting a delay of a predetermined amount of time by sonic finding unit 24; and emitting, by sonic finding unit 24, a sonic locating signal 28 after sonic finding unit 24 conducts the delay. Sonic finding unit 24 can include printed circuit board 34, first switch 36, battery holder 38, battery 40 attached to battery holder 38, and programmable sonic beacon and timer device 42, first switch 36, battery holder 38, and sonic beacon and timer device 42 being mounted to printed circuit board 34. The method can further include (a) selectively activating and deactivating, using first switch 36, sonic finding unit 24 and thereby selectively activating and deactivating sonic beacon and timer device 42, (b) emitting, by sonic finding unit 24, at least one initial signal 28 when first switch 36 is activated and thereby indicating a power level of battery 40, and (c) initiating the delay using sonic beacon and timer device 42 when first switch 42 is activated or when a second switch 58 of sonic finding unit 24 is selectively activated following first switch 36 being activated, and (d) emitting, by sonic beacon and timer device 42, sonic locating signal 28 after sonic beacon and timer device 42 conducts delay and until switch 36 is deactivated.
The embodiments of the present invention provide for a simple manufacturing process to attach electrical-mechanical components into golf disc 22. Instead of a complex process of molding components into disc, the present invention provides easily achieved modifications to a golf disc 22 for reliable and simple ways of attachment as part of a final assembly 20. In addition, the design of retaining cup 72 and related systems provide the highest level of protection of the components of sonic finding unit 24 from direct and indirect impact during play. The methods, structures, and/or ways disclosed herein for attaching an electrical-mechanical accessory to a golf disc 22 describe systems that are uniquely advantageous to the manufacturing process, uniquely advantageous to the survivability of the accessory components, and uniquely advantageous to the ability to add such components to a disc 22 with minimal or no loss of flight integrity. Therefore, the described ways for attaching accessories and their components to golf discs 22 are intended to cover not only attachment of the sonic finding device 24 described herein, but use of those ways for attaching any other accessory built into a recreational disc 22, including, but not limited to, other possible accessories for use with golf discs such as IR locating chips, remotely activated finding devices, and lighting units. While several particular embodiments of the present invention have been described, numerous modifications could be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, the type of battery, volume and pattern of sonic beacon, length of silent countdown (the predetermined time delay), various controls, status indicators of the components of sonic finding unit 24, shape of sonic finding unit 24, type of frame or case and shape thereof which hold the components of sonic finding unit 24, shape of retaining cup 82, shape of projections 78, 80 within retaining cup 72 and printed circuit board 34 can all be modified without significantly altering the overall structures described herein. The present invention is intended to cover all such changes and modifications. The ways of attachment described herein are for the purpose of retaining and protecting any type of electrical and/or mechanical device within a disc 22, including lights, noisemakers, or other types of finding systems. The present invention also applies not just to discs 22 used in the game of disc golf but also to any other recreational throwing disc.
While this invention has been described with respect to at least one embodiment, the present invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains and which fall within the limits of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A golf disc assembly, comprising:

a disc configured for flying upon being cast into the air; and

a sonic finding unit which is attached to said disc and which emits a sonic locating signal after said sonic finding unit conducts a delay of a predetermined amount of time.

2. The golf disc assembly according to claim 1, wherein said sonic finding unit includes a printed circuit board, a first switch, a battery holder, a battery attached to said battery holder, and a programmable sonic beacon and timer device, said first switch, said battery holder, and said sonic beacon and timer device being mounted to said printed circuit board.

3. The golf disc assembly according to claim 2, wherein said first switch is configured for selectively activating and deactivating said sonic finding unit and thereby for selectively activating and deactivating said sonic beacon and timer device, said sonic finding unit configured for emitting at least one initial signal when said first switch is activated and thereby for indicating a power level of said battery, said sonic beacon and timer device configured for initiating said delay one of when said first switch is activated and when a second switch of said sonic finding unit is selectively activated following said first switch being activated, said sonic beacon and timer device emitting said sonic locating signal after said sonic beacon and timer device conducts said delay and until said first switch is deactivated.

4. The golf disc assembly according to claim 3, wherein at least one of:

(a) said sonic beacon and timer device is configured for emitting at least one sonic signal as at least one said initial signal, and

(b) said sonic finding unit includes a light element which is mounted to said printed circuit board and is configured for emitting a light signal as at least one said initial signal.

5. The golf disc assembly according to claim 3, wherein said disc includes a first wall and a second wall, said first wall including an underside and a rim, said second wall depending from said underside, said first and second walls together at least partly forming a retaining cup, said retaining cup defining an interior space and including a retention feature which retains said sonic finding unit entirely within said interior space, said rim defining a substantially horizontal plane which is positioned entirely below said second wall when said disc is in an upright position.

6. The golf disc assembly according to claim 5, further including a shock-absorbing element positioned within said interior space between said sonic finding unit and said first wall.

7. The golf disc assembly according to claim 5, wherein said second wall includes an inside surface, said retention feature of said retaining cup including a ramped projection projecting inwardly from said inside surface into said interior space and retaining said sonic finding unit within said interior space.

8. The golf disc assembly according to claim 5, wherein said retention feature of said retaining cup includes a projection projecting inwardly from said underside of said first wall into said interior space, said printed circuit board defining a through-hole which receives said projection and thereby attaches said sonic finding unit to said disc.

9. The golf disc assembly according to claim 3, wherein said sonic finding unit includes a waterproof case which encloses said printed circuit board, said first switch, said battery holder, said battery, and said sonic beacon and timer device.

10. The golf disc assembly according to claim 3, wherein said sonic finding unit is attached to said disc not by way of a retaining cup but by way of one of (a) a plurality of hook-and-loop fasteners, (b) a friction tape, and (c) an adhesive.

11. The golf disc assembly according to claim 1, wherein said disc includes a circumferential portion, said sonic finding unit including a first switch, a battery holder, a battery attached to said battery holder, and a programmable sonic beacon and timer device, said first switch, said battery holder, and said sonic beacon and timer device being distributed about and attached to said circumferential portion, said first switch, said battery, and said sonic beacon and timer device being electrically coupled with one another, said first switch configured for selectively activating and deactivating said sonic finding unit and thereby for selectively activating and deactivating said sonic beacon and timer device, said sonic beacon and timer device configured for emitting at least one initial sonic signal when said first switch is activated and thereby for indicating a power level of said battery, said sonic beacon and timer device emitting said sonic locating signal immediately after said sonic beacon and timer device conducts said delay and until said first switch is deactivated.

12. The golf disc assembly according to claim 1, wherein said sonic finding unit includes a light element which emits a light signal when said sonic locating signal is actuated, said light signal being one of a repeating light and a continuous light.

13. The golf disc assembly according to claim 1, wherein said sonic finding unit includes a device configured for selectively setting said predetermined amount of time and thereby for selectively setting said delay.

14. The golf disc assembly according to claim 1, wherein said sonic finding unit includes a device configured for selectively setting a type of sound of said sonic locating signal.

15. The golf disc assembly according to claim 1, wherein said sonic finding unit includes a device configured for selectively setting a rate of sounding of said sonic locating signal.

16. The golf disc assembly according to claim 1, wherein said sonic finding unit includes a device configured for selectively setting a volume of said sonic locating signal one of to a constant level and to a level which increases over time.

17. The golf disc assembly according to claim 1, wherein said sonic finding unit includes a display configured for displaying at least one of a volume level of said sonic locating signal, a delay time countdown, and a battery power strength.

18. A method of using a golf disc assembly, said method comprising the steps of:

providing a disc with a sonic finding unit attached thereto;

flying said disc upon casting said disc into the air;

conducting a delay of a predetermined amount of time by said sonic finding unit; and

emitting, by said sonic finding unit, a sonic locating signal after said sonic finding unit conducts said delay.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein said sonic finding unit includes a printed circuit board, a first switch, a battery holder, a battery attached to said battery holder, and a programmable sonic beacon and timer device, said first switch, said battery holder, and said sonic beacon and timer device being mounted to said printed circuit board.

20. The method according to claim 19, further including (a) selectively activating and deactivating, using said first switch, said sonic finding unit and thereby selectively activating and deactivating said sonic beacon and timer device, (b) emitting, by said sonic finding unit, at least one initial signal when said first switch is activated and thereby indicating a power level of said battery, and (c) initiating said delay using said sonic beacon and timer device one of when said first switch is activated and when a second switch of said sonic finding unit is selectively activated following said first switch being activated, and (d) emitting, by said sonic beacon and timer device, said sonic locating signal after said sonic beacon and timer device conducts said delay and until said switch is deactivated.