Patent Publication Number: US-9889357-B2

Title: Removable and reattachable golf club grip

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of International Patent Application No. PCT/IB2016/001531, filed Sep. 23, 2016, which claimed priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/219,752, filed Sep. 17, 2015, the entire contents of which is incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to hand held gripping surfaces that may be placed on and removed from any tubular shaft. Without limitation, the grip is generally related to sporting industries. More specifically, the present invention relates to the field of removable and re-attachable grips, and more particularly to an apparatus, device and system for removing and re-attaching grips on golf clubs or other tubular shafts. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Typically, grips are made from a flexible material such as, for example, rubber, silicone rubber, or elastomer composites. These materials help a golfer grip the shaft during play, but, over time, they wear down and lose their efficacy. 
     Good golfing practice requires a golfer to change the grips on his/her golf club as it wears and loses its ability to function optimally. Golfers may have their clubs professionally re-griped or they may purchase the grips and needed materials to do it themselves. 
     Golf grips are conventionally attached to the club by adhering double-sided tape to the end of the club&#39;s steel or composite shaft. A solvent is then used to lubricate the taped end while the grip is forced over the shaft. The golf club shaft is typically tapered, increasing from the club head to a larger diameter at the upper grip end. In order for the grip to be fit to the golf club shaft properly, the grip must also have a taper to match the taper of the golf club shaft. The taper makes fitting the grip over the shaft challenging because, at one end, the grip has an opening that is smaller than the width of the shaft at its distal end. 
     Once the grip has been stretched over the shaft, the grip can be adjusted to the shaft end as the solvent and glue dries. This process is challenging because it requires excessive physical exertion to stretch the grip over the shaft even when the shaft is well lubricated by a solvent. The process of taping the shaft, lubricating the shaft and securing the club while forcing the grip on the shaft is messy and challenging to do in a home environment. 
     In addition, removing a worn grip requires using a blade to split the rubber along the shaft and pulling the old grip off. Cutting the grip can be dangerous, and physically pulling the grip off can be challenging. Not only is the physical process of removing conventional grips laborious and meticulous, but it can also take between 12-24 hours for the solvents to fully adhere and dry before the grip is ready for full use. 
     Other, more mechanical methods of removing grips exist. For example, pneumatic air pumps may be used to inflate the grip, thus allowing it to slide more easily onto and off of the shaft. However, these tools require expertise to operate. Aside from the safety risks associated with pneumatic tools, malpractice can incorrectly inflate a grip. Due to memory of the rubber material, applying too much pressure can permanently stretch the grip, thus making it unusable. 
     Grips that are interchangeable and more easily removed and re-attached exist in the prior art. 
     For example, the company, SwitchGrips (www.switchgripsusa.com) offers an interchangeable grip technology that provides a player with the ability to change the grip on a putter. Currently, it is the only interchangeable putter grip to offer multiple sizes for natural, fluid and more consistent putts. However, the internal sleeve of the grip is still required to be fixed to the shaft like conventional grips. The outer sleeve is the only changeable portion. 
     Accordingly, the SwitchGrips grip is not a “true” changeable grip as it is limited to a specific housing made by a specific company. Thus, the ability to attach any grip onto any shaft is not possible with this concept, which limits the product to a very small niche market. 
     Not only does SwitchGrips&#39; technology not address the key issues associated with interchangeable grip technology, but it limits the user&#39;s purchasing power by restricting the user to buying only SwitchGrip products. Furthermore, SwitchGrips addresses only putter grips, and it is not possible to apply this technology to current iron or driver shafts due to the force required to swing such clubs, which is very different to that of putters. For example, the attachment of SwitchGrips&#39; outer shell would not hold up under high torque conditions applied to iron or driver shafts. In addition, SwitchGrips acknowledges that their putter grips are not “one size fits all”, which limits their technology. 
     Another company, Nickel Putter USA (www.nickelputter-usa.com) offers grips having adjustable lengths, which is available for their current product line, and is limited to Nickel Putter products only. The adjustable grips allow for an incremental length adjustment and readjustment, and they are interchangeable. However, the grip has a glued screw in the back that is required in order to assemble the grip on the putter shaft. In order to remove the putter from the shaft, the user must heat the screw head and melt the glue. Thus, Nickel Putter&#39;s system is not only intricate, but requires tools and user experience to execute. 
     In addition, similar the SwitchGrips&#39; grips, Nickel Putter&#39;s grips are specific to putters and Nickel Putter products only, which limits Nickel Putter products to a small niche portion of the market. 
     A third company, Pure Grips USA (www.puregrips.com) is the owner of U.S. Pat. No. 7,963,012, issued Jun. 21, 2011, and entitled TOOL FOR SEATING A GRIP ON THE SHAFT OF A GOLF CLUB, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Pure Grips&#39; “Golf Grip Seating Tool” permits tapeless seating of a grip onto the shaft of a golf club by having the controllable application of compressed air expand the grip as it is positioned onto the shaft of a golf club. The “Golf Grip Seating Tool” comprises an enclosing member having an axial bore with an open end and a closed end, a slot, and a convergent nozzle mounted medially in the closed end of the enclosing member. The open end of the grip fits over the open end of the golf club shaft and forms a seal to allow the compressed air applied via the nozzle in the enclosing member to expand the grip, yet allow excess air to escape between the grip and the shaft as the grip controllably inflates at the distal end. 
     While Pure Grips&#39; tool provides a fast method of application with no tape or solvents, it requires specific tools and user experience, which complicate the process of changing a grip. Furthermore, the tools require electricity to operate, which limits the location a player may change the grip, and renders rapidly replacing grips at the point of play impossible. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 7,458,902, issued Dec. 2, 2008, and entitled CHANGEABLE GOLF GRIP, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety, discloses a changeable grip for a shock imparting implement grip having a body, a ferrule element, and a sleeve. The body and sleeve portions of the grip are threadably connected to the ferrule element, which is attached to the shaft of a shock imparting implement. However, this technology requires altering the golf club shaft to reduce the shaft&#39;s length, because the grip requires a mounting that is fixed to the shaft. Moreover, the application of the mounting to the shaft is not disclosed in the patent. In addition, golf shafts have a taper and thus different circumferences and diameters along the length of the golf club. The grip disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,458,902 does not address this core challenge, as it would limit the invention. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 8,182,361, issued May 22, 2012, and entitled CHANGEABLE GRIP, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety, discloses a changeable grip for a shock imparting implement having a gripping sleeve positioned on a handle sleeve attached to a handle. A lower end of gripping sleeve abuts a ledge integrally formed in the handle sleeve. A threaded cap compresses the gripping sleeve against the ledge to secure the grip to the handle sleeve. Optional splines on an outer surface of the handle sleeve, which mesh with channels in the gripping sleeve, function to prevent slippage or rotation during use. However, this technology requires altering the golf club shaft, similar to U.S. Pat. No. 7,458,902, which is undesirable. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,299,802, issued Apr. 5, 1994, and entitled REMOVABLE GOLF CLUB GRIP, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety, discloses a removable grip adapted to be fixed on the existing conventional grip of a golf club, the grip has hollows and protuberances enabling the player to automatically adopt a correct position of the hands on the grip. It is noted that this removable grip is not used for play, as it fails to meet the requirements of the U.S. Golf Association (USGA). The grip is used for training purposes to learn correct placement of the user hands when swinging the golf club. The fixing mechanisms are limited, and only work because they lay over rubber and not over a metal or graphite golf club shaft, which has a slip surface. 
     Thus, there is a need in the market for a wider range of grips with different properties, colors, weights, and sizes. A need exists for a changeable grip having greater flexibility in selecting a specific grip for a given application, and/or for use under a wide variety of conditions, and which allows the user to select the exact type of grip needed under the given conditions for the desired application. In addition, a need exists for a removable grip that operates with the same mechanical properties as a conventional grip. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a golf grip specifically designed to be easily removable and attachable so as to address the issues with conventional golf grips, and to open up new markets that may assist golfers in rapidly changing their grips at the point of play. The interchangeable, removable and re-attachable grips of the present invention will fit all current club shaft diameters, including drivers, irons, and putters, thus making it a universal grip. 
     It is a further object of the present invention to provide a changeable grip that allows for a wide variety of features to enhance the grip, such as, for example, designing the grip weight for swing weight control, or providing multiple types of gripping surfaces with interchangeable gripping sleeves having different combinations of materials. 
     Another object of the present invention is to provide an interchangeable, removable and re-attachable grip that will offer numerous improvements to the conventional process of replacing golf grips as mentioned in the Background. The grip of the current invention is not limited to golf but may also pertain to other industries such as, for example, tennis, fishing, mountain biking, motor cross, lacrosse, baseball, or any other industry that may implement a changeable grip to their corresponding instruments of use. 
     It is another object of the present invention to provide a system and method for rapid application of changeable grips, and to open new opportunities in the grip market, which would not presently be possible due to shortcomings of current grip technology. 
     Rubber grips have been an industry mainstay for nearly 50 years. They are the most common grip in all of golf today, available in a myriad of compound mixes, colors and designs. The slip-on rubber grip is found on the majority of Original Equipment Manufacturer (“OEM”) agreements. On every club purchased each year, a rubber golf grip is pre-installed. As these grips wear out, golfers purchase replacement grips. This invention minimizes the cost and time commitments involved in re-gripping the golf clubs, while minimizing the risk of changing the feel through re-application of tape build up. Specifically, despite investment in grip material technology, to date no one has successfully addressed rapid application of golf grips. This disclosure defines “rapid application” as the ability to install a golf grip on a shaft without any external tool; time delay while waiting for adhesive solvents to dry; and without requiring continuous set up and maintenance of underlying tape build up used for personal customization. Further, by eliminating the “permanence” of the grip application by not requiring the grip to be cut off to remove it, an additional opportunity exists to expand the golf grip market through fashion via the increased sale of colored grips that can be removed and applied at will. 
     Outside of the core functionality of the grips in comparison to alternatives, there are many key drivers in the golf market that will be critical in determining the financial viability of a new golf grip entering the market. The right product in the golf grip market will allow an existing golf grip manufacturer to grow market share in core markets as well as widen appeal in golf participation growth countries. 
     The benefits and strengths of present disclosure are outlined below:
         The rapid application of the golf grip without the use of external tooling, external substances and/or payment of services;   Melds both utility, performance, longevity of club life and fashion into one;   Does not substantially alter existing low cost manufacturing processes used in the current industry;   Will not address rubber composite, as this market already includes a multitude of players with established brands;   Addresses the substructure/mechanism in which already patented golf grip rubber technology can be applied;   To be able to easily articulate the advantages and benefits of adopting the resulting product over competitors;   Meets the needs of the majority of the golfers in the market in order ensure maximum customer acquisition and retention;   Has the ability to continuously attract new customers to maximize word of mouth reach.       

     There is thus provided, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, an interchangeable (e.g., removable, re-attachable, replaceable) golf club grip that may include, in some embodiments, a body or sleeve (e.g., a grip sleeve) that includes both a heel securing mechanism (e.g., heel components) in an upper, proximal end and a contracting toe securing mechanism (e.g., toe components) in a lower, distal end. The use of the grip according to embodiments of the current invention is separated into three different actions that are outlined in further detail herein. The grip of the current invention is intended to meet all the requirements of the U.S. Golf Association (USGA) of grip parameters. 
     In certain embodiments of the present invention, the method of attachment of a grip onto a golf club shaft may be broken into, for example, three basic securing movements. 
     In the first movement, called Securing Movement #1, heel components of the grip are first positioned onto the shaft. Securing Movement #1 can be one of several Heel Securing Movements, depending to the use of different fixing heel components, and these movements can be either rotational torque or downward pressure, both of which actions result in securing the upper, proximal portion of the gripping sleeve onto the shaft. In preferred embodiments, all heel components relating to Heel Securing Movements are required to be secured before the final Rotational Movement #3 can be performed. 
     In the second movement, called Securing Movement #2, once the grip is situated and secured into place on the shaft by Securing Movement #1, the grip is centered on the shaft by fastening toe components at the lower, distal portion of the grip sleeve onto the shaft. Securing Movement #2 can be one of several Toe Securing Movements, depending upon the use of different fixing toe components, and these movements are generally rotational torque or another means of securing the lower, distal portion of the gripping sleeve onto the shaft. In preferred embodiments, all toe components relating to Toe Securing Movements are required to be secured before the final Rotational Movement #3 can be performed. 
     In the third movement, called Rotational Movement #3, once both heel and toe embodiments of the grip have been fastened to the shaft, there is a need to decrease the internal core diameter of the grip sleeve in order to secure the grip to the shaft. Rotational Movement #3 can be one of several different movements using of internal diameter reducing structures, in which the internal core of the grip sleeve may be decreased by rotating or twisting the entire grip sleeve body, and in which an internal mechanism maintains the grip sleeve body in the torqued or twisted position, thereby preventing the grip sleeve body from rotating back. Thus, the grip includes a relaxed configuration and a torqued configuration, wherein the grip is maintained in the relaxed configuration throughout Securing Movements #1 and #2, and is maneuvered into the torqued configuration upon operation of Rotational Movement #3. In preferred embodiments, Rotational Movement #3 can be executed only once both Securing Movement #1 and Securing Movement #2 are complete. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The subject matter regarded as the invention is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of this specification. The invention, however, both as to organization and method of operation, together with objects, features, and advantages thereof, may best be understood by reference to the following detailed descriptions when read with the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  is an isometric view of a golf club in its main bodies according to the prior art; 
         FIG. 2 a    is an illustration of dimensional perimeters before the rubber slides over the shaft; 
         FIG. 2 b    is an illustration of dimensional perimeters after the rubber slides over the shaft, including the dimensional challenges required to secure the rubber to the shaft; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the grip and the three (3) movements that secure the grip to shaft according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of the heel components; 
         FIG. 4 a    is a perspective view of Heel Securing Method A and all components according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 4 b    is a perspective view of Heel Securing Method B and all components according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 4 c    is a perspective view of Heel Securing Method C and all components according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5  is a top sectional view of Heel Securing Method A, showing the movements required to secure embodiment to the shaft; 
         FIG. 5 a    is a side cross-sectional view of Heel Securing Method A before it is secured inside of the shaft; 
         FIG. 5 b    is a side cross-sectional view of Heel Securing Method A after it is secured inside of the shaft, illustrating said functions; 
         FIG. 6  is a top sectional view of Heel Securing Method B, showing the movements required to secure embodiment to the shaft; 
         FIG. 6 a    is a side cross-sectional view of Heel Securing Method B secured inside of the shaft from downward pressure according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 7  is a top sectional view of Heel Securing Method C, showing the movements required to secure embodiment to the shaft; 
         FIG. 7 a    is a side cross-sectional view of Heel Securing Method C secured inside of the shaft from downward pressure according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of the toe components; 
         FIG. 8 a    is a perspective view of Toe Securing Method A and all components according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 8 b    is a perspective view of Toe Securing Method B and all components according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 9 a    is a perspective view of lower grip portion Toe Securing Method A in its relaxed securing position before the embodiment is secured to the shaft; 
         FIG. 9 b    similar to  FIG. 9 a    is a perspective view of lower grip portion Toe Securing Method A in its movements as it torques around the circumference of the shaft; 
         FIG. 9 c    is a perspective view of lower grip portion Toe Securing Method A and all components according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention fully secured to the shaft; 
         FIG. 10 a    is a side cross-sectional view of Toe Securing Method A components in a relaxed position according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 10 b    is a top cross-sectional view of Toe Securing Method A components in a relaxed position according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 11 a    is a side cross-sectional view of Toe Securing Method A components illustrated in  FIG. 10 a    secured to the shaft in a torqued position according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 11 b    is a top cross-sectional view of Toe Securing Method A components illustrated in  FIG. 10 b    secured to the shaft in a torqued position according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 12 a    is an isometric view of a lower grip portion Toe Securing Method B with all visible, outer components according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 12 b    is an isometric cross-sectional view of the lower grip portion Toe Securing Method B illustrated in  FIG. 12 a    with internal, non-visible components according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 13 a    is a side cross-sectional view of the Toe Securing Method B components in a relaxed position according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 13 b    is a top cross-sectional view of Toe Securing Method B components in a relaxed position according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 14 a    is a side cross-sectional view of the Toe Securing Method B components illustrated in  FIG. 13 a    secured to the shaft in a torqued position according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 14 b    is a top cross-sectional view of the Toe Securing Method B components illustrated in  FIG. 13 b    secured to the shaft in a torqued position according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 15 a    is an illustration of dimensional perimeters before the rubber is secured on the shaft end, according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 15 b    is an illustration of dimensional perimeters once the rubber is secured on the shaft end, and outlining all movements required to move the rubber over the shaft according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of the grip and the final rotational movement that secures the grip to shaft after both Securing Methods 1 and Securing Methods 2 have been carried out, according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 17 a    is a partial sectional perspective view of Rotational Movement 3A, according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present inventions; 
         FIG. 17 b    is a partial sectional perspective view of Rotational Movement 3B, according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present inventions; 
         FIG. 17 c    is a partial sectional perspective view of Rotational Movement 3C, according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present inventions; 
         FIG. 18 a    is a side cross-sectional view of the Rotational Movement 3A components in the required rotational movements to secure rubber grip onto shaft, according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 18 b    is a top cross-sectional view of the Rotational Movement 3A components in the required rotational movements to secure rubber grip onto shaft, according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 19 a    is a side cross-sectional view of the Rotational Movement 3B components in the required rotational movements to secure rubber grip onto shaft, according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 19 b    is a top cross-sectional view of the Rotational Movement 3B components in the required rotational movements to secure rubber grip onto shaft, according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 20 a    is a side cross-sectional view of the Rotational Movement 3C components in the required rotational movements to secure rubber grip onto shaft, according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 20 b    is a top cross-sectional view of the Rotational Movement 3C components in the required rotational movements to secure rubber grip onto shaft, according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 21 a    is a sectional isometric view of the grip in the relaxed position, which allows the grip to slide over the shaft before fastening according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 21 b    is a top cross-sectional view of the internal features of the rubber grip when the grip is in the relaxed position according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 22 a    is a sectional isometric view of the grip in the secured position, which fastens grip to the shaft, according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 22 b    is a top sectional view of the grip in the secured position, which fastens grip to the shaft, according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 23 a    is a top sectional view of the grip with a smooth internal core on the rubber, according to the aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 23 b    is a top sectional view of the grip with a sin-wave core inside of the rubber, according to the aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 23 c    is a top sectional view of the grip with a smooth internal core which has a small spline indentation inside of the rubber, according to the aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 23 d    is a top sectional view of the grip with a smooth internal core which has several small spline indentations inside of the rubber, according to the aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 23 e    is a top sectional view of the grip with a multiple toothed spline internal core inside of the rubber, according to the aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention; 
     
    
    
     It will be appreciated that, for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity. Additionally, the many features of any one embodiment shown in a figure should not be considered independent and separate from the features of an embodiment shown in another figure, and it is conceivable that features of any one embodiment may be combinable with another. Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and/or components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the present invention. 
     Reference is now made to  FIG. 1 , which is an isometric view of a golf club  3  in its main features according to the prior art. As shown in  FIG. 1 , a golf club, in its most basic form, may include a golf club head  6 , a shaft or handle  4 , and a grip  2 . Shaft  4  has an elongated design with the handle  4  at a first, proximal end and the head  6  at a second, distal end. Shaft  4 , for all permutations, may be made from a hard material such as, for example, aluminum, steel, titanium, plastic, a composite of these materials, or, in certain embodiments, any combination of these materials. 
     Reference is now made to both  FIG. 2 a    and  FIG. 2 b   , in which grip  2  and shaft  4  are shown, with shaft  4  having an upper diameter x and a lower diameter a, and with grip  2  having a lower internal diameter b and an upper internal diameter c. In order to attach grip  2  to shaft  4 , grip  2  slides over a wider, outer diameter on an upper (e.g., proximal) portion of shaft  4 , and is capable of fastening on the narrow, outer diameter on a lower (e.g., distal) portion of shaft  4 , allowing grip  2  to be adaptable for all different varying diameters of shaft  4  that may arise. Thus, lower internal diameter b of grip  2  must be large enough to fit over upper diameter x of shaft  4 . The process of attaching grip  2  to shaft  4  (e.g., according to embodiments of the present invention) is referenced in  FIG. 3 , by which showing the three movements required for attaching grip  2  onto shaft  4 . The tapering and varying diameters of shaft  4  pose dimensional challenges and restricting perimeters as illustrated in  FIG. 2 a    and  FIG. 2   b.    
     The present invention, as described herein, provides a novel grip  2  having a longitudinal or elongated, tubular grip sleeve including heel components  34  located at an upper, proximal portion (i.e., the heel) of the grip sleeve, and toe components  36  located at a lower, distal portion (i.e., the toe) of the grip sleeve. In preferred embodiments, heel components  34  and toe components  36 , along with other components of the present invention, allow grip  2  to be installed and uninstalled on a shaft  4 . In this way, grip  2  (e.g., grip sleeve) may be cylindrical or tubular, and may include an inner surface (e.g., a core  5 ). In certain embodiments, it is preferable that the grip sleeve has an internal diameter b or c that is larger than the outer diameter a or x of shaft  4  in order to allow grip  2  to slide over the largest possible diameter that could exist on shaft  4 , which in certain embodiments is at the upper, proximal portion of shaft  4 . 
     Reference is now made to  FIG. 3 , which is an isometric view of the novel grip  2  in its simplest form of the present invention, mounted (e.g., installed) on a shaft  4 , with all visible, outer components of grip  2  according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention. As illustrated in  FIG. 3 , grip  2  requires three movements in order to completely secure grip  2  onto shaft  4 . The first motion of the present invention is shown in  FIG. 3  as Securing Movement #1, which is a movement that secures the heel components  34  located at an upper, proximal portion of the grip sleeve to the upper portion of shaft  4 . The second motion of the present invention is shown in  FIG. 3  as Securing Movement #2, which is a movement that secures the toe components  36  located at a lower, distal portion of the grip sleeve to shaft  4 . The third motion of the present invention is shown in  FIG. 3  as Rotational Movement #3, which is a movement that secures the region of grip  2  between the heel components  34  and the toe components  36  to shaft  4  to allow grip  2  to be installed on a shaft  4 . 
     An upper, proximal portion of grip  2  can be referred to as heel components  34 , which provides all aspects of securing movement required for said upper, proximal portion. Reference is now made to  FIG. 4 , which is an isometric view of the upper, proximal portion of grip  2 , and makes specific reference to the variety of embodiments and securing methods for fastening heel components  34  to shaft  4 . The securing methods are referred to as Heel Securing Methods A, B and C. These Heel Securing Methods are all forms of Securing Movement #1, which involve fixing heel components  34  to the shaft  4 , as shown in  FIGS. 4 a , 4 b  and 4 c   , respectively. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 4 , in some embodiments, an upper, proximal portion of grip  2  may have different forms of heel components  34  that are each configured for differently fastening said part to the shaft  4 . These heel securing methods all act as a single function of securing the upper, proximal portion of grip  2  to shaft  4 . These operate to aid attaching and detaching grip  2  from shaft  4  in installed and uninstalled configurations, respectively. The Heel Securing Methods are illustrated in isometric views  FIGS. 4 a , 4 b  and 4 c   , which are described individually herein. 
     Heel Securing Method A can be understood from  FIG. 4 a   , which is an isometric view of the internal, non-visible components according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention that are used for heel securing method A. As illustrated in  FIG. 4 a   , in some embodiments, the upper, proximal portion of heel  34  may include, for example, a grip cap  8 , lead screw  12 , a ratchet gear  16 , a ratchet gear hub  18 , an expandable tube  20 , and a compression nut  22 . 
     As referred to elsewhere herein, grip cap  8 , lead screw  12 , ratchet gear  16 , ratchet gear hub  18 , expandable tube  20 , and compression nut  22 , make up the heel components  34  for Heel Securing Method A, each of which is located at the upper, proximal portion of grip  2 . 
     Reference in now made to  FIGS. 4 a    and  5 , which show heel components  34  specifically relating to Heel Securing Method A, showing a lead screw  12  connected to grip cap  8  according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention. As illustrated in  FIGS. 4 a   ,  5 ,  5   a  and  5   b , the upper, proximal portion of grip  2  houses heel components  34  specifically relating to Heel Securing Method A. 
     In certain embodiments, as shown in  FIGS. 5 a  and 5 b   , compression nut  22  is threaded onto lead screw  12 , which is located at a distal end of (e.g., below) expandable tube  20 . In preferred embodiments, compression nut  22  may include internal threads configured to engage with external threads on lead screw  12 . In certain embodiments, ratchet gear hub  18  is located at a proximal end of (e.g., on top of) expandable tube  20 . In this way, expandable tube  20  is located in between compression nut housing  22  and ratchet gear hub  18 . 
     In preferred embodiments, each of compression nut  22 , expandable tube  20 , ratchet gear hub  18 , ratchet gear  16  and ratchet paw housing includes an internal bore configured to accept lead screw  12  as illustrated in, for example, relaxed and torqued positions shown in  FIGS. 5 a  and 5 b   . In preferred embodiments, the internal bores of each component are arranged co-axially with each other to allow insertion of lead screw  12 . Expandable tube  20  is not confined to one generic movement to fix heel components  34  to shaft  4 , but may also include expandable metal collets, tapered “v” designs, or any other internal expanding and contracting apparatuses that may expand upon twisting or pushing. 
     Heel Securing Method B can be understood from  FIG. 4 b   , which is an isometric view of the internal, non-visible components according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention that are used for heel securing method B. As illustrated in  FIG. 4 b   , in some embodiments, the upper, proximal portion of heel  34  may include, for example, a grip cap  8 , lead screw  12 , and a tapered helix insert  19 . 
     As referred to elsewhere herein, grip cap  8 , lead screw  12 , and a tapered helix insert  19 , make up the heel components  34  for Heel Securing Method B, each of which is located at the upper, proximal portion of grip  2 . 
     Reference in now made to  FIGS. 4 b    and  6 , which show heel components  34  specifically relating to Heel Securing Method B, showing a lead screw  12  connected to grip cap  8  according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention. As illustrated in  FIGS. 4 b   ,  6  and  6   a , the upper, proximal portion of grip  2  houses heel components  34  specifically relating to Heel Securing Method B. 
     In certain embodiments, tapered helix insert  19  is located around lead screw  12 , which is located at a distal end of (e.g., below) grip cap  8 . In preferred embodiments, tapered helix insert  19  is pressed into the upper, proximal portion of shaft where it is located (e.g., co-axially) within the terminal, proximal end of the sleeve of grip  2 . In certain embodiments, tapered helix insert  19  may be embedded within, or otherwise connected to, the grip sleeve  2  as shown in  FIG. 6 a   , and may rotate in one direction only. In this embodiment, grip cap  8  is pressed into shaft  4  to secure tapered helix insert  19  in place. 
     Heel Securing Method C can be understood from  FIG. 4 c   , which is an isometric view of the internal, non-visible components according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention that are used for heel securing method C. As illustrated in  FIG. 4 c   , in some embodiments, the upper, proximal portion of heel  34  may include, for example, a grip cap  8 , lead screw  12 , and a flanged compression spring nut  21 . 
     As referred to elsewhere herein, grip cap  8 , lead screw  12 , and multi star flanged compression spring nut  21 , make up the heel components  34  for Heel Securing Method C, each of which is located at the upper, proximal portion of grip  2 . 
     Reference in now made to  FIGS. 4 c    and  7 , which show heel components  34  specifically relating to Heel Securing Method C, showing a lead screw  12  connected to grip cap  8  according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention. As illustrated in  FIGS. 4 c   ,  7  and  7   a , the upper, proximal portion of grip  2  houses heel components  34  specifically relating to Heel Securing Method C. 
     In certain embodiments, Multi Star Spring Nut  21  is a flanged compression nut located around lead screw  12 , which is located at a distal end of (e.g., below) grip cap  8 . In preferred embodiments, Multi Star Spring Nut  21 , which is shown to have four (4) legs or flanges, although the number of legs is not limited to 4, is pressed into the upper, proximal portion of shaft where it is located (e.g., co-axially) within the terminal, proximal end of the sleeve of grip  2 . In certain embodiments, Multi Star Spring Nut  21  may be embedded within, or otherwise connected to, the grip sleeve  2  as shown in  FIG. 7 a   , and may rotate in one direction only. In this embodiment, grip cap  8  is pressed into shaft  4  to secure tapered Multi Star Spring Nut  21  in place. 
       FIGS. 5 a , 6 a , and 7 a    are all cross-sectional views of the heel components  34  of all heel securing methods, according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention. As shown in said figures, shaft  4  extends between the grip sleeve&#39;s inner surface (e.g., core  5 ) and heel components  34 . In some embodiments, ratchet gear hub  18  may include at least two protruding arms or, in other embodiments, an annular ring which operates as a stop preventing shaft  4  from extending out of the proximal end of grip  2  and also ensuring proper positioning of shaft  4  for installing and securing grip  2  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 5 a , 6 a , and 7 a   ). In an installed position, lead screw  12  extends through heel components  34  until it engages with compression. In preferred embodiments, grip cap  8 , to which lead screw  12  is connected, rests on top of the grip sleeve and provides a surface grip that a user may grip and twist (e.g., rotate) lead screw  12 . 
     The components of each of heel securing methods A, B and C are used for the single function of securing the upper, proximal portion of grip  2  together with, inter alia, lower, distal portion of grip  2 , which can be referred to as toe components  36 , referenced in  FIG. 8  in its purest form. These operate to aid attaching and detaching grip  2  from shaft  4  in installed and uninstalled configurations, respectively. 
     Toe components  36  are similar to heel components  34  in that they make up the lower, distal portion of grip  2 . Reference is now made to  FIG. 8 , which is an isometric view of the lower, distal portion of grip  2 , and makes specific reference to the variety of securing methods for fastening toe components  36  to shaft  4 . The securing methods are referred to as Toe Securing Methods A and B. These Toe Securing Methods are all forms of Securing Movement #2, which involve fixing toe components  36  to the shaft  4 , as shown in  FIGS. 8 a    and  8   b.    
     As illustrated in  FIG. 8 , in some embodiments, a lower, distal portion of grip  2  may have different forms of toe components  36  that are each configured for differently fastening said part to the shaft  4 . The toe securing methods all act as a single function of securing the lower, distal portion of grip  2  to shaft  4 . These operate to aid attaching and detaching grip  2  from shaft  4  in installed and uninstalled configurations, respectively. The Toe Securing Methods are illustrated in isometric views  FIGS. 8 a  and 8 b   , which are described individually herein. 
     Toe Securing Method A can be understood from  FIGS. 9 a , 9 b , and 9 c   , which are isometric views of the internal, non-visible components according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention that are used for toe securing method A. As illustrated in  FIGS. 8 a , 9 a , 9 b , and 9 c   , in some embodiments, the lower, distal portion of grip  2  may include, for example, an elongated flexible strap  25 , securing surface patch  27 , and a “v” split  29 . 
     As referred to elsewhere herein, an elongated flexible strap  25 , securing surface patch  27 , and a “v” split  29 , make up the toe components  36  for Toe Securing Method A, each of which is located at the lower, distal portion of grip  2 . 
     Reference is now made to  FIGS. 9 a , 9 b , and 9 c   , which are three isometric views of the lower, distal portion of the grip sleeve of grip  2  and the movements by which toe components  36  are secured to shaft  4 , showing toe components  36  specifically relating to Toe Securing Method A according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention. As shown in  FIGS. 9 a , 9 b   , and  9   c , the distal portion of the grip sleeve  2  may include, in certain embodiments, an elongated flexible strap  25 , securing surface patch  27 , and a “v” split  29 , make up the toe components  36  for Toe Securing Method A, each of which is located at the lower, distal portion of grip  2 . 
     In preferred embodiments, flexible strap  25  is an elongated extension of rubber grip sleeve  2 , having a securing surface  27  imbedded into said flexible strap  25 . The securing surface may be any self-locking surface texture and not limited to one practical method (e.g.; Velcro, double sided tape, snap fit buttons, and/or other fastener materials). As shown in  FIGS. 10 a  and 10 b   , which are side and top cross sectional views of the preferred embodiments, flexible strap  25 , and securing surface  27  preform as a “torsional wrap”. This movement allows flexible strap  25  to compress around the shaft  4 , as it is wrapped around said body. Securing surface  27  acts as a termination point for flexible strap  25 , to be secured onto itself locking toe components  36  specifically relating to Toe Securing Method A against shaft  4 . 
       FIGS. 10 a  and 10 b    show flexible strap  25  in a relaxed position.  FIGS. 11 a  and 11 b    are side and top cross sectional views of toe components  36  specifically relating to Toe Securing Method A when in the torqued secured position, according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention. 
     Now reference is being made to “v” split  29 , which allows lower, distal portion of grip  2 , to have a smaller diameter and expand over the maximum diameters occurring in shaft  4 , (e.g.,  FIGS. 2 a  and 2 b   ). Furthermore, it will have less material to compress when securing to the shaft  4 , once grip  2  assumes its desired position on shaft  4 . 
     Toe Securing Method B can be understood from  FIGS. 12 a  and 12 b   , which are isometric views of the internal, non-visible components according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention that are used for toe securing method B. As illustrated in  FIGS. 8 b , 12 a  and 12 b   , a flange housing  26 , a threaded flange lock sleeve  28 , and a flange collet  30  are shown. In certain embodiments, flange collet  30  may include three (3), four (4) or more (e.g., a plurality) of flanges. 
     As referred to elsewhere herein, flange housing  26 , threaded flange lock sleeve  28 , and flange collet  30  make up toe components  36 , each of which is located at the lower, distal portion of grip  2 . 
       FIGS. 12 a  and 12 b    are an isometric external and cross-sectional views, respectively, of the lower, distal portion of the grip sleeve of grip  2  showing the movements by which showing toe components  36  specifically relating to Toe Securing Method B are secured to shaft  4 , according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 8 b   , the distal portion of the grip sleeve may include, in certain embodiments, a flange housing  26 , a threaded flange lock sleeve  28 , and a threaded flange collet  30 . In certain embodiments, flange housing  26  forms part of the sleeve of grip  2 , and is configured to house flange collet  30  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 12 b  and 13 a   ). For example, in certain embodiments, flange collet  30  is embedded within flange housing  26 . 
     In preferred embodiments, flange collet  30  may include at least two, but preferably three or more flanges. In some embodiments, each flange of flange collet  30  may include a proximal taper portion, a shoulder, and a distal taper portion as illustrated in, for example,  FIG. 12 a   . In preferred embodiments, the proximal taper portion of each flange increases in diameter in a direction extending towards the distal end of grip  2  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 12 a  and 12 b   ). In addition, in preferred embodiments, flange collet  30  may include external threads that are configured to engage with internal threads of flange lock sleeve  28 . In this way, rotating flange lock sleeve  28  may cause the lock sleeve to move longitudinally along flange collet  30  as discussed elsewhere herein. 
       FIG. 12 b    is an isometric cross-sectional view of the lower grip portion illustrated in  FIG. 12 a    with internal, non-visible toe components  36  specifically relating to Toe Securing Method B according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention.  FIGS. 13 a  and 13 b    are a detailed side and top cross-sectional views of toe components  36  specifically relating to Toe Securing Method B according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention showing flange collet  30  in a relaxed position.  FIGS. 14 a  and 14 b    are side and top cross sectional views of toe components  36  specifically relating to Toe Securing Method B when in the torqued secured position, according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention. 
     Toe Components  36  (by way of Toe Securing Methods A and B) each of which is located at the lower, distal portion of grip  2  and, together with, inter alia, heel components  34  (by way of Heel Securing Methods A, B and C), operate to aid attaching and detaching grip  2  from shaft  4  in installed and uninstalled configurations, respectively. These two securing movements of the upper, proximal portion of grip  2 , and lower, distal portion of grip  2 , can be executed in no particular order of operation. Both portions of grip  2  are required to be secured to shaft  4 , before Rotational Movement #3 can be performed. Methods of securing these said portions of grip  2  to shaft  4 , are referenced in more detail herein. 
     The following is a discussion on the actions for heel securing motions and toe securing motions of grip  2  to a shaft  4 . 
     Grip  2  of the present invention may be fastened to any size shaft in, for example, three (3) separate securing movements, wherein the final securing movement is preferably rotational. Any and all rotational securing methods need to be on the same axis of rotation as shown in, for example,  FIGS. 17 a , 17 b  and 17 c   . In certain embodiments, core  5  of grip  2  is can be unlike the cores of conventional grips. As discussed elsewhere herein, core  5  of the current invention may include a star tooth design that may run the whole length of the grip sleeve&#39;s internal surface. The core  5  may have a variety of internal design patterns such as a smooth, textured, sine wave and/or rippled profile, which, when torqued with an appropriate amount of rotations, will increase frictional forces to facilitate securing grip  2  to shaft  4 . A cross-section view of the core  5  variations is illustrated in, for example,  FIGS. 23 a , 23 b , 23 c , 23 d   , and  23   e.    
     Once the grip is positioned on the shaft, it is automatically centered on the shaft by the internal heel components  34  or otherwise referenced as Heel Securing Methods as the upper, proximal end of the grip sleeve  2  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 17 a , 17 b , and 17 c   ). 
     In preferred embodiments, heel components  34  are required to be secured to the upper, proximal end of shaft  4 . There are several disclosed methods by which means securing grip  2  through components  34 . Discussed in further detail below are the actions required, according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention. (see  FIGS. 4 a , 4 b , and 4 c   ). 
     In preferred embodiments of Heel Securing Method A, grip  2  of the current invention may include an expandable tube  20 . Said expandable tube  20  is made of a flexible material such as, for example, rubber, although other materials are contemplated. In this embodiment, when grip cap  8  is twisted (e.g., rotated), lead screw  12 , which engages with compression nut  22 , draws compression nut housing  22  into expandable tube  20 , which is then pressed against the bottom surface of ratchet gear hub  18 , as shown in, for example,  FIGS. 5 a  and 5 b   . In this way, as lead screw  12  is tightened via grip cap  8 , expandable tube  20  expands within shaft  4 , which secures (e.g., locks) heel components  34  specifically relating to Heel Securing Method A, and thus grip  2 , onto shaft  4 . 
     In preferred embodiments of Heel Securing Method B, grip  2  of the current invention may include a tapered helix insert  19  (see  FIGS. 6 and 6   a ), which may be made of a flexible material such as, for example, plastic or spring steel, although other materials are contemplated. In this embodiment, when grip cap  8  is pressed into inner cavity of upper, proximal portion of shaft  4  (e.g., downward pressure), tapered helix  19  engages with compression against the inner surface of shaft  4 , which secures (e.g., locks) heel components  34  specifically relating to Heel Securing Method B, and thus grip  2 , onto shaft  4 . 
     In preferred embodiments of Heel Securing Method C, grip  2  of the current invention may include a multi prong spring nut  21  (See  FIGS. 7 and 7   a ), which may be is made of a flexible material such as, for example, plastic or spring steel, although other materials are contemplated. In this embodiment, when grip cap  8  is pressed into inner cavity of upper, proximal portion of shaft  4  (e.g., downward pressure), the spring nut  21  engages with compression against the inner surface of shaft  4 , which secures (e.g., locks) heel components  34  specifically relating to Heel Securing Method C, and thus grip  2 , onto shaft  4 . 
     In preferred embodiments, now the grip  2  is secured at the upper, proximal portion and is automatically centered on the shaft by the internal heel components  34  or otherwise referenced HSMs as discussed elsewhere herein (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 17 a , 17 b , and 17 c   ). 
     Next, in certain embodiments, toe components  36  are required to be secured to the lower, distal end of shaft  4 . There are several disclosed methods by which means securing grip  2  through components  36 . Discussed in further detail below the actions required, according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention (see  FIGS. 8 a  and 8 b   ). 
     In preferred embodiments of Toe Securing Method A, grip  2  may be connected at the lower, distal end of the grip sleeve  2  via flexible elongated strap  25  with an embedded securing surface  27  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 9 a , 9 b  and 9 c   ). In some embodiments, flexible elongated strap  25  preform as a “torsional wrap”. This movement allows flexible strap  25  to compress around the shaft  4  and the bottom, portion of grip  2 , as it is wrapped around both said bodies. Securing surface  27  acts as a termination point for flexible strap  25 , to be secured onto itself locking toe components  36  specifically relating to Toe Securing Method A against shaft  4 .  FIGS. 9 a , 9 b , and 9 c    show a relaxed position, an in-process torqued position and a fully torqued position, respectively. 
     Toe Securing Method A is rotated (co-axially) with Rotational Movement #3, discussed hereinbelow. Both movements, Toe Securing Method A and Rotational Movement #3, are in like directions, thereby creating a high torque compression on components  36  (see  FIGS. 9 c , 11 a , and 11 b   ), according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention. 
     Additionally, in certain embodiments, “v” split  29 , which allows lower, distal portion of grip  2 , to have a smaller diameter and flex over the greater diameters occurring in shaft  4  (e.g.,  FIGS. 2 a  and 2 b   ). Furthermore, “v” split  29  allows the lower, distal portion of gripping sleeve  2  to have less material to compress when securing to the shaft  4 , due to the smaller diameter on core  5  design. 
     In preferred embodiments of Toe Securing Method B, grip  2  may be connected at the lower, distal end of the grip sleeve via flange collet  30  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 12 a , 12 b  and 13 a   ). In some embodiments, flange collet  30  is configured to fasten down toe components  36  specifically referencing Toe Securing Method B of grip  2  on shaft  4  via threaded flange lock sleeve  28  and the tapered shoulders of flange collet  30 . In preferred embodiments, flange collet  30  may include external threads that are configured to engage with internal threads of flange lock sleeve  28 . In this way, rotating flange lock sleeve  28  may cause the lock sleeve to move longitudinally along flange collet  30 . Thus, rotating (e.g., tightening) flange lock sleeve  28  on flange collet  30  causes flange lock sleeve  28  to strike the tapered shoulders of each flange on flange collet  30  that, in turn, causes each flange to compress and tighten onto shaft  4 . In certain embodiments, the complimentary threads on flange collet  30  and flange lock sleeve  28  may allow for a large range of motion thus allowing toe components  36  specifically referencing Toe Securing Method B to tighten onto a wide range of varying diameters of shafts, such as shown in, for example,  FIGS. 13 a , 13 b , 14 a    and  14   b.    
     In preferred embodiments, threaded flange lock sleeve  28  is mounted onto flange collet  30 . Threaded flange lock sleeve  28  may be made of aluminum, but it is contemplated that sleeve  28  may be made of any rigid metallic, composite or polymer material that may support an internal thread (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 12 a  and 12 b   ). 
     In certain embodiments, threaded flange lock sleeve  28  is positioned onto grip  2  as a free standing part, but is not limited to being a free standing part. For example, threaded flange lock sleeve  28  may also be attached to, or housed on, grip  2  or, in other embodiments, on flange collet  30 . 
     In some embodiments, the lower portion of threaded flange lock sleeve  28  has a matching internal taper that corresponds with the external taper of flange collet  30  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 15 a  and 15 b   ). This taper is designed to reduce friction as flange lock sleeve  28  rotates over flange collet  30 , thereby compressing flange collet  30  and flange housing  26 . The height of the angle of taper of flange collet  30  determines the range of compression on to shaft  4 , which may have a variety of shaft diameters. The taper angle length is a product of the distance of travel needed for threaded flange lock sleeve  28  threaded over flange collet  30 , as shown in, for example,  FIGS. 15 a    and  15   b.    
     As shown in  FIGS. 15 a  and 15 b   , shaft  4  has an upper diameter x and a lower diameter a, with a shaft draft angle of y. Grip  2  has a lower internal diameter b and an upper internal diameter c. Flange collet  30  has a distance of compression d and a distance of thread dt. 
     For example, flange collet  30  will compress onto flange housing  26 , reducing flange housing  26  from an approximately 16.3 mm internal diameter to an approximately 13.8 mm internal diameter, and fastening grip  2  to shaft  4  within that range. In preferred embodiments, the internal diameters between 13.8 mm and 16.3 mm are designated to match the maximum and minimum diameters at the end portion of shaft  4 , which allows grip  2  to slide over all varying diameters with little force. In some embodiments, flange collet  30  is not confined to specific dimensions, as shown in, for example,  FIGS. 12 and 13 , and the angle taper of flange collet  30  may be decreased or increased depending on the internal diameters needed. When the internal threads of lock sleeve  28  are twisted over the corresponding external threads of flange collet  30 , toe components  36  will fasten grip  2  onto shaft  4 . It is contemplated that, when grip  2  is secured in position, no additional rotation or longitudinal movement of flange lock sleeve  28  will be allowed (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 14 a  and 14 b   ). That is, in some embodiments, flange lock sleeve  28  and flange collet  30  may include a stop mechanism that may disallow further rotational and longitudinal movement of lock sleeve  28  over flange collet  30  to prevent over-tightening or to prevent lock sleeve  28  from slipping off of flange collet  30 . 
     In some embodiments the internal surface of flange housing  26  (which, in some embodiments, may be equivalent or similar to the internal surface of core  5 ) may have a high coefficient of friction to prevent grip  2  from moving on shaft  4  once each flange of flange collet  30  is tightened onto shaft  4 . For example, flange housing  26  may include a coarse surface, an adhesive surface, or otherwise be made of a material with a high coefficient of friction. 
     Reference is now made to  FIG. 16 , which is an isometric view of grip  2  and which, as discussed elsewhere herein, illustrates the final and key element to securing grip  2  onto shaft  4 , namely Rotational Movement #3, which occurs after heel components  34  are secured to shaft  4  using one of the Heel Securing Movements and after toe components  36  are secured to shaft  4  using one of the Toe Securing Movements. Rotational Movement #3 is a rotational movement, which contracts the internal diameter of grip sleeve  2  onto shaft  4 . Thus, in preferred embodiments, when the sleeve of grip  2  is twisted, core  5  is compressed onto shaft  4 , which fastens grip  2  onto shaft  4  with a stability that is comparable to the stability of a conventional grip (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 21 a , 21 b , 22 a , and 22 b   ). 
       FIGS. 17 a , 17 b  and 17 c    show a variety of rotational movements for securing grip  2  onto shaft  4 , referred to as Rotational Movements 3A, 3B and 3C, respectively. Rotational Movements #3 as referenced in  FIGS. 17 a , 17 b , and 17 c    all require the same user action of twisting (i.e., rotating) grip sleeve  2 , around shaft  4 . However, due to the slight differences in Heel Securing Methods used, they vary internally from each other, as described in more detail hereinbelow. 
     Rotational Movement 3A can be understood from  FIG. 17 a   , which shows an embodiment in which a portion of ratchet gear hub  18  and ratchet gear  16  are located (e.g., co-axially) within ratchet paw housing  14  at the terminal, proximal end of the sleeve of grip  2 . In certain embodiments, ratchet paw housing  14  may be embedded within, or otherwise connected to, the grip sleeve as shown in  FIGS. 18 a  and 18 b   , and may include one or more ratchet arms radially extending towards a center of ratchet paw housing  14  and configured to engage with ratchet gear  16 . As is known in the art, ratchet gear  16  may include a plurality of teeth, and the ratchet arm of ratchet paw housing  14  may be configured to engage with each of the plurality of teeth in such a way that ratchet gear  16  may rotate in one direction only. 
       FIGS. 18 a  and 18 b    show side and top cross sectional views, respectively, of grip  2  showing the movements relating to Rotational Movement 3A for securing grip  2  onto shaft  4  according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention. Rotational Movement 3A is the specific rotational movement used for the mechanism of Heel Securing Method A. In certain embodiments, ratchet paw housing  14  may include one or more ratchet arms  17  that radially extend towards a center of ratchet paw housing  14 , which is configured to engage with the plurality of teeth on ratchet gear  16  in such a way that ratchet gear  16  may rotate in one direction only. 
     As such, in certain embodiments, once heel components  34  and toe components  36  are fixed firmly to shaft  4 , ratchet paw housing  14  may be configured to rotate freely in one direction around ratchet gear  16  by rotating the grip sleeve (see, e.g.,  FIG. 18 b   ). Rotating the grip sleeve of grip  2  causes the internal diameter (e.g., core  5 ) of the grip sleeve to contract as shown in, for example,  FIGS. 22 a  and 22 b   . In preferred embodiments, the ratchet mechanism of ratchet paw housing  14   a , by virtue of radially extending ratchet arms  17  engaging with ratchet gear  16 , prevents the opposite rotation, and thus loosening, of the grip sleeve. Thus, when the sleeve of grip  2  is twisted, core  5  is compressed onto shaft  4 , which fastens grip  2  onto shaft  4  with a stability that is comparable to the stability of a conventional grip (see, e.g.,  FIG. 16 ). 
     In some embodiments, ratchet paw housing  14  location in Heel Securing Method A may be a plastic housing, although other types of materials, such as other polymers or metals that may rotate as a solid body with the grip sleeve about the longitudinal axis of grip  2 , are contemplated. 
     In some embodiments, ratchet gear  16  may be part of the same single body including ratchet gear hub  18  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 17 a , 18 a  and 18 b   ), although it is contemplated that ratchet gear  16  and ratchet gear hub  18  may be also be separate and distinct pieces. In preferred embodiments, twisting the grip sleeve of grip  2  also turns ratchet paw housing  14  around ratchet gear  16 , thereby allowing the grip sleeve of grip  2  to tighten on a ratchet system, which allows the grip sleeve to rotate or twist in a single direction only without any movement in the opposite direction due to the restriction causes by the ratchet mechanism. In preferred embodiments, the ratchet mechanism allows the user to continually tighten the grip sleeve until the internal diameter of core  5  has tightened or closed securely around shaft  4  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 22 a  and 22 b   ). There will be no slip, lateral movement or longitudinal movement once grip  2  has been torqued into the torqued configuration as shown in, for example,  FIG. 22   a.    
     Rotational Movement 3B can be understood from  FIG. 17 b   , which shows an embodiment in which tapered helix insert  19  is located (e.g., co-axially) within the terminal, proximal end of the sleeve of grip  2 . In certain embodiments, tapered helix insert  19  may be embedded within, or otherwise connected to, the grip sleeve  2  as shown in  FIGS. 19 a  and 19 b   , such as by being affixed to the grip sleeve  2  via grip cap  8 , e.g., by polymer bonding or some other suitable adhesive. Tapered helix insert  19  may include one or more spirally arranged helix arms configured to engage with an inside surface of shaft  4  in such a way that tapered helix insert  19  may rotate in one direction only. 
       FIGS. 19 a  and 19 b    show top and side cross sectional views, respectively, of grip  2  showing the movements relating to Rotational Movement 3B for securing grip  2  onto shaft  4  according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention. Rotational Movement 3B is the specific rotational movement used for the mechanism of Heel Securing Method B. In certain embodiments, grip  2  is affixed to grip cap  8 , which as discussed above, is engaged with tapered helix insert  19  via lead screw  12 . Tapered helix insert  19  may include one or more helix arms  29  spirally arranged thereabout and about radially extending towards a center of the internal core shaft  4 , which is configured to engage within shaft  4  in such a way that tapered helix insert  19  may rotate in one direction only. 
     As such, in certain embodiments, once heel components  34  and toe components  36  are fixed firmly to shaft  4 , tapered helix insert  19  may be configured to rotate freely in one direction around the inside of the upper, proximal portion of shaft  4 , by rotating grip cap  8  and grip sleeve  2  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 19 b   ). Rotating the grip cap  8  causes the internal diameter (e.g., core  5 ) of the grip sleeve of grip  2  to contract, as shown in, for example,  FIGS. 22 a  and 22 b   , in the same actions of Rotational Movement 3A. In preferred embodiments, tapered helix insert  19 , by virtue of helix arms  29  engaging an internal surface of shaft  4 , prevents the opposite rotation, and thus loosening, of the grip sleeve. Thus, when the sleeve of grip  2  is twisted, core  5  is compressed onto shaft  4 , which fastens grip  2  onto shaft  4  with a stability that is comparable to the stability of a conventional grip (see, e.g.,  FIG. 16 ). 
     Rotational Movement 3C can be understood from  FIG. 17 c   , which shows an embodiment in which tapered helix insert  19  is located (e.g., co-axially) within the terminal, proximal end of the sleeve of grip  2 . In certain embodiments, multi star spring nut  21  may be embedded within, or otherwise connected to, the grip sleeve as shown in  FIGS. 20 a  and 20 b   , such as by being affixed to the grip sleeve  2  via grip cap  8 , e.g., by polymer bonding or some other suitable adhesive. Multi star spring nut  21  may include one or more radially extending but angled arms configured to engage with an inside surface of shaft  4  in such a way that multi star spring nut  21  may rotate in one direction only. 
       FIGS. 20 a  and 20 b    show top and side cross sectional views, respectively, of grip  2  showing the movements relating to Rotational Movement 3C for securing grip  2  onto shaft  4  according to aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention. Rotational Movement 3C is the specific rotational movement used for the mechanism of Heel Securing Method C, although very similar to Rotational Movement 3B. In certain embodiments, grip  2  is affixed to grip cap  8 , which as discussed above, is engaged with multi star spring nut  21  via lead screw  12 . Multi star spring nut  21  may include one or more arms  31  oriented at an angle with respect to a center thereof and radially extending towards a center of the internal core shaft  4 , which is configured to engage within shaft  4  in such a way that multi star spring nut  21  may rotate in one direction only. 
     As such, in certain embodiments, once heel components  34  and toe components  36  are fixed firmly to shaft  4 , multi star spring nut  21  may be configured to rotate freely in one direction around the inside of the upper, proximal portion of shaft  4 , by rotating grip cap  8  and grip sleeve  2  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 19 b   ). Rotating the grip cap  8  causes the internal diameter (e.g., core  5 ) of the grip sleeve of grip  2  to contract as shown in, for example,  FIGS. 22 a  and 22 b   , in the same actions of Rotational Movements 3A and 3B. In preferred embodiments, multi star spring nut  21 , by virtue of arms  31  engaging an internal surface of shaft  4 , prevents the opposite rotation, and thus loosening, of the grip sleeve. Thus, when the sleeve of grip  2  is twisted, core  5  is compressed onto shaft  4 , which fastens grip  2  onto shaft  4  with a stability that is comparable to the stability of a conventional grip (see, e.g.,  FIG. 16 ). 
     Because toe components  36  are directly connected to the grip sleeve  2  via embedding, molding, adhesion, fusion or the like, grip sleeve  2  will rotate in only one direction around the shaft  4 . However, during Rotational Movement #3, toe components  36  and grip sleeve can be rotated separately or together, as shown in, for example,  FIGS. 17 a , 17 b  and 17 c   , and as discussed elsewhere herein. For example, the grip sleeve of grip  2  and certain toe components  36  within the upper, proximal (e.g., the heel) portion of grip  2  are configured to turn or rotate as one single unit. 
       FIGS. 21 a  and 21 b    show isometric and top cross-sectional views, respectively, of grip  2  in a relaxed, uninstalled position prior to Rotational Movement #3, and  FIGS. 22 a  and 22 b    show isometric and top cross-sectional views, respectively, of grip  2  in a torqued, installed position after Rotational Movement #3. 
     In some embodiments, the grip sleeve of grip sleeve  2  is rotating around shaft  4 , thereby decreasing the diameter of the grip sleeve (and thus grip  2 ) as shown in, for example,  FIGS. 21 a , 21 b , 22 a  and 22 b   . In some embodiments, gripping sleeve could have a striped design element which completely runs along grip  2 . When grip  2  has no visible helix formation, grip  2  is said to be in the relaxed position, which may be a trigger for the user either to apply Rotational Movements #1, #2 and #3 (depending on the state of the various components) or to remove grip  2  from shaft  4 . When striped design element is twisted around the grip sleeve and has a visible helix formation, as shown, e.g.,  FIG. 22 b   , this is an indication that grip  2  is in tension (e.g., the torqued configuration) and that grip  2  is firmly and securely mounted on shaft  4 . 
     In an uninstalled configuration (e.g., when grip  2  is in a relaxed position), as shown in  FIGS. 21 a  and 21 b   , the internal core should provide limited or no contact surface area on shaft  4 , while, in an installed configuration (e.g., when grip  2  is in a torqued position), as shown in  FIGS. 22 a  and 22 b   , the entire surface area of the internal core will compress onto shaft  4  and allow provide grip  2  to be held securely in place on shaft  4 . 
     In some embodiments, as shown in  FIGS. 23 a - e   , core  5  (e.g., an inner surface of the grip sleeve) may include, but is not limited to, an extruding tooth-like design having a plurality of protruding teeth or other variations of cores  5 . In certain embodiments, the plurality of internal teeth may reduce the internal diameter of core  5  such that core  5  may have an internal diameter that is smaller than the largest possible diameter of shaft  4 . However, the reduced surface area of the plurality of internal teeth of core  5  helps ensure that grip  2  may be easily installed on shaft  4 . The core  5  can have a variety of internal design patterns such as a smooth (see  FIG. 23 a   ), textured (see  FIGS. 23 c , 23 d   ), sine wave and/or rippled profile (see  FIGS. 23 b , 23 e   ), which, when torqued with an appropriate amount of rotations, will facilitate securing grip  2  to shaft  4 . However, regardless of the internal shape inside the rubber grip  2 , the internal diameter of core  5  must be larger than that of the upper section of shaft  4  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 23   a, b, c, d , and  e ). 
     In more detail, the method of attachment of grip  2  onto a shaft  4  may be broken into, for example, three (3) basic securing movements (see, e.g.,  FIG. 3 ). 
     Securing Movement #1: As shown in, for example,  FIGS. 4 a , 4 b  and 4 c   , heel components  34  of grip  2  are first positioned onto shaft  4 . Securing Movement #1 has been referenced above as Heel Securing Movements, and is separated into different movements due to the use of different fixing heel components  34 . The movements required are either rotational torque (Heel Securing Method A) or downward pressure (Heel Securing Method B and Heel Securing Method C). Both of these actions result in securing the upper, proximal portion of griping sleeve  2 , onto shaft  4 . As referenced in  FIGS. 5 b , 6 a  and 7 a   , the preferred embodiments, all heel components  34  relating to Heel Securing Movements are required to be secured before the final Rotational Movement #3 can be performed. 
     Securing Movement #2: As shown in, for example,  FIGS. 17 a , 17 b  and 17 c   , once grip  2  is situated and secured into place on shaft  4  by Securing Movement #1, grip  2  is centered on shaft  4  by fastening toe components  36  at the lower, distal portion of the grip sleeve  2  onto shaft  4 . In certain embodiments, fastening toe components  36  to shaft  4  may be similar to Securing Movement #1. Securing Movement #2 has been referenced as Toe Securing Movements and is separated into different movements due to the use of different fixing toe components  36 . The movements required are rotational torque, but these are not limited to rotational movements, as long as there is a means of securing the lower, distal portion of gripping sleeve  2  onto shaft  4 . As referenced in  FIGS. 8 a  and 8 b   , the preferred embodiments, all toe components  36  relating to Toe Securing Movements are required to be secured before the final Rotational Movement #3 can be performed. 
     Rotational Movement #3: With both heel and toe embodiments of grip  2  fastened to shaft  4 , there is a need to decrease the internal core diameter of the grip sleeve in order to secure grip  2  to shaft  4 . Rotational Movement #3 is separated into different movements due to the use of internal diameter reducing structures. In certain embodiments, decreasing the internal core of the grip sleeve may be effected by rotating or twisting the entire grip sleeve body, and an internal mechanism maintains the grip sleeve body in the torqued or twisted position, thereby preventing the grip sleeve body from rotating back. Thus, in certain embodiments, it can be said that grip  2  includes a relaxed configuration or position, and a torqued configuration or position. In preferred embodiments, grip  2  is maintained in the relaxed configuration throughout Securing Movements #1 and #2, and is maneuvered to the torqued configuration upon operation of Rotational Movement #3. As shown in  FIG. 3 , Rotational Movement #3 can be executed only once both Securing Movement #1 and Securing Movement #2 are complete. 
     As discussed hereinabove, certain embodiments of the present invention relate to a method for changing or replacing a grip on a shaft (e.g., a golf club shaft) by implementing one or more of the Securing and Rotational Movements #1, #2 and/or #3, as well as one or more of Removable Movements #1 and/or #2. In addition, methods for attaching a removable grip to a shaft by implementing one or more of the Movements or Removable Movements are also contemplated. 
     Similarly, methods for removing the removable grip from a shaft are also contemplated. The following is a discussion on the actions to remove grip  2  to a shaft  4 . Removing grip  2  from shaft  4  may, in some embodiments, include one (1) to two (2) movements, designated Removable Movement #1 and, if needed, Removable Movement #2, which are essentially the reverse actions of Securing Movements #2 and #1 (if required) discussed hereinabove. 
     Removable Rotational Movement #1 is the first step in removing grip  2  from shaft  4  and is, in some embodiments, loosening the tension in toe components  36 . This is said to be the reversed movements of Toe Securing Method A or Toe Securing Method B, whichever is used in the particular embodiment. 
     When Toe Securing Method A was used, the toe components  36  relating to Toe Securing Method A must first be released from shaft  4 . In order to do this, elongated flexible strap  25  is released from embedded securing surface  27  (e.g., loosened) from both lower, distal portion of grip  2  and shaft  4 . By releasing the securing surface  27  embedded into the surface of the elongated flexible strap  25 , the torque compression applied at the lower, distal portion of gripping sleeve  2  is loosened. This releases toe components  36  and also breaks the tension and reverses the compression force that was holding the core  5  of gripping sleeve  2  against the shaft  4  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 10 a , 10 b , 11 a  and 11 b   ). 
     When Toe Securing Method B was used, the toe components  36  relating to Toe Securing Method B must first be released from shaft  4 . In order to do this, flange lock sleeve  28  must be untwisted or unscrewed (i.e., loosened) from flange collet  30 , which releases the surface contact of flange housing  26  with shaft  4 . This releases toe components  36  from shaft  4 , allowing grip  2  to be completely removed from shaft  4  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 13 a , 13 b , 14 a , and 14 b   ). 
     If Heel Securing Method B and Heel Securing Method C were used to attach grip  2 , release of grip  2  from shaft  4  does not require another movement, but requires simply the force required to remove the whole grip  2  (e.g., upwards) off the shaft  4 , as long as toe components  36 , are released first (order of operation). Thus, if Heel Securing Method B and C are in place in the upper, proximal portion of grip  2 , grip  2  would than assume its relaxed configuration and would be configured to be pulled completely free from shaft  4  in the opposite direction with little to no force required as shown in, for example,  FIGS. 6 a    and  7   a.    
     However, if Heel Securing Method A, in which heel components  34  comprise, for example, five (5) separate parts illustrated in  FIGS. 5 a  and 5 b   , was used to attach grip  2 , there is an additional step, which is the reverse movements to that of said securing method, namely Removable Rotational Movement #2 discussed hereinbelow. 
     Removable Rotational Movement #2 is, in the embodiments where Heel Securing Method A was used, the final step in removing grip  2  from shaft  4 . Removable Rotational Movement #2 is the loosening of the tension in heel components  34  when grip  2  is in the torqued (e.g., tightened) configuration by, for example, untwisting (e.g., loosening) grip cap  8  and lead screw  12  located at the proximal end of grip  2  in a direction opposite to the direction used to tighten heel components  34  onto shaft  4 . This will release the tension in heel components  34  by causing expandable tube  20  within shaft  4  to decompress (e.g., relax) and pull away from shaft  4 , thereby breaking the connection of heel components  34  from shaft  4 . In addition, twisting grip cap  8  allows said the grip sleeve of grip  2  to be released from the torqued configuration into the relaxed configuration as shown in, for example,  FIGS. 5 a  and 5 b   . Gripping sleeve  2  will then be configured to be pulled completely free from shaft  4  in the opposite direction with little to no force required as shown in, for example,  FIGS. 5 a    and  5   b.    
     Different embodiments are disclosed herein. Features of certain embodiments may be combined with features of other embodiments; thus certain embodiments may be combinations of features of multiple embodiments. The foregoing description of the embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. It should be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that many modifications, variations, substitutions, changes, and equivalents are possible in light of the above teaching. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention. 
     While certain features of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications, substitutions, changes, and equivalents will now occur to those of ordinary skill in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention. 
     PARTS LIST 
     
         
         ( 2 ) Grip 
         ( 3 ) Complete Golf Club 
         ( 4 ) Shaft 
         ( 5 ) Core Design 
         ( 6 ) Golf Club Head 
         ( 8 ) Heel—Grip Cap 
         ( 12 ) Heel—Lead Screw 
         ( 14 ) Ratchet Paw Housing 
         ( 16 ) Heel—Ratchet Gear (Heel Securing Method A) 
         ( 17 ) Ratchet Paws (Heel Securing Method A) 
         ( 18 ) Heel—Ratchet Gear Hub (Heel Securing Method A) 
         ( 19 ) Heel—Tapered Helix Insert (Heel Securing Method B) 
         ( 20 ) Heel—Expandable Tube (Heel Securing Method A) 
         ( 21 ) Heel—Multi Star Spring Nut (Heel Securing Method C) 
         ( 22 ) Heel—Compression Nut (Heel Securing Method A) 
         ( 25 ) Toe—Elongated Flexible Strap (Toe Securing Method A) 
         ( 26 ) Toe—Flange Housing (Toe Securing Method B) 
         ( 27 ) Toe—Securing Surface (Toe Securing Method A) 
         ( 28 ) Toe—Threaded Flange Lock Sleeve (Toe Securing Method B) 
         ( 29 ) Tapered Helix Insert arms (Heel Securing Method B) 
         ( 30 ) Toe—Threaded Flange Collet (Toe Securing Method B) 
         ( 31 ) Multi Star Spring Nut wall (Heel Securing Method C) 
         ( 34 ) Embodiment of all heel components 
         ( 36 ) Embodiment of all toe components