Golf Ball Retrieval Device

Abstract

Disclosed is a golf ball retrieval device configured for retrofit to a putter grip. An exemplary embodiment generally takes the form of a cylinder having an interior space defined on one end, i.e. the golf ball receiving end, by a front diameter large enough to receive a golf ball and, on the opposite end of the interior space, i.e. the golf ball retention end, a rear diameter small enough to prevent a received golf ball from passing through. In some embodiments, the interior surface slopes from the front diameter back to the rear diameter. As such, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the interior surface of some embodiments operates to substantially define a space in the shape of a frustum. Advantageously, embodiments of a golf ball retrieval device receive, retain, and release a golf ball by leveraging only gravitational forces.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A golf ball retrieval device comprising:
 a receptacle configured to receive a golf ball, wherein the receptacle comprises:   an exterior surface substantially defining a cylinder; and   an interior surface substantially defining a space in the shape of a frustum;   wherein a golf ball may be retained within, and released from, the frustum shaped space via leveraging gravitational force.   
     
     
         2 . The golf ball retrieval device of  claim 1 , further comprising:
 a coupling means for mechanically coupling the golf ball retrieval device to a golf club.   
     
     
         3 . The golf ball retrieval device of  claim 2 , wherein the coupling means mechanically couples the device to the golf club by interfacing with a hole in the grip of the golf club. 
     
     
         4 . The golf ball retrieval device of  claim 1 , wherein the diameter of a front end of the frustum shaped space exceeds the diameter of a golf ball. 
     
     
         5 . The golf ball retrieval device of  claim 1 , wherein the diameter of a front end of the frustum shaped space is less than the diameter of a golf ball.