Patent Publication Number: US-2011053716-A1

Title: Golf disc

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  30 A 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  30 A 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  30 A 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  30 A 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  30 B produced by light element  48 , this light  30 B 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  30 B as at least one initial signal  30  alternatively or in addition to the initial sonic signal  30 A. 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  30 B from light element  48  to indicate that sonic finding unit  24  is on and has sufficient battery strength. As the initial signal  30 , light  30 B 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  30 B 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  30 A). 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  30 A 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  30 A 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  30 A 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.