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WO2005053798A2 - Systemes et procedes pour adapter un equipement de golf - Google Patents

Systemes et procedes pour adapter un equipement de golf Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2005053798A2
WO2005053798A2 PCT/US2004/039814 US2004039814W WO2005053798A2 WO 2005053798 A2 WO2005053798 A2 WO 2005053798A2 US 2004039814 W US2004039814 W US 2004039814W WO 2005053798 A2 WO2005053798 A2 WO 2005053798A2
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
swing
data
golfer
golf
collected
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2004/039814
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2005053798A3 (fr
Inventor
Mitchell Clark Voges
Daniel Patrick Hollister
Timothy J. Mcgann
Original Assignee
Max Out Golf Llc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US10/722,580 external-priority patent/US8827842B2/en
Application filed by Max Out Golf Llc filed Critical Max Out Golf Llc
Publication of WO2005053798A2 publication Critical patent/WO2005053798A2/fr
Publication of WO2005053798A3 publication Critical patent/WO2005053798A3/fr

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
    • A63B60/42—Devices for measuring, verifying, correcting or customising the inherent characteristics of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like, e.g. measuring the maximum torque a batting shaft can withstand
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B24/00—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
    • A63B24/0003—Analysing the course of a movement or motion sequences during an exercise or trainings sequence, e.g. swing for golf or tennis
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
    • A63B60/46—Measurement devices associated with golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like for measuring physical parameters relating to sporting activity, e.g. baseball bats with impact indicators or bracelets for measuring the golf swing
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
    • A63B69/36—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf
    • A63B69/3623—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf for driving
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
    • A63B2220/05—Image processing for measuring physical parameters
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
    • A63B2220/80—Special sensors, transducers or devices therefor
    • A63B2220/806—Video cameras

Definitions

  • the field of the invention relates generally to the fitting of golf equipment and more particularly to systems and methods designed to improve the golfer's swing and provide more precise club fitting.
  • two golfers can have the same club speed of 100 mph, which will often result in the same club recommendation, including club type, shaft length, shaft flex, and club face loft, when conventional fitting techniques are employed.
  • One of these golfers may launch the golf ball at a 15 degree angle relative to the ground, while the other launches the golf ball at a 3 degree angle.
  • one golfer's swing can result in the golf ball rotating at 5000 rotations per minute (rpm's), e.g., using a driver, while the other generates 2500 rpms.
  • the rotations per minute of the golf ball is often referred to as the spin of the golf ball.
  • both golfers will often end up with the same shaft and loft recommendation.
  • a golf equipment fitting system uses advanced technology to not only objectively identify the optimum equipment for a golfer, but to also identify and help correct swing flaws so that the golfer can achieve optimum performance on the golf course.
  • golf fitting includes collecting data related to the golfer's swing and determining if the golfer's swing technique should be modified based at least in part on the collected swing data. When it is determined that the golfer's swing technique should be modified, then providing swing instruction to the golfer. When, however, it is determined that the golfer's swing technique is fine, then data is collected related to how the golfer's swing launches a golf ball. Finally, golf equipment, e.g., golf clubs, can be specified based on the collected swing data and launch data. [006]
  • Figure 1 is a flow chart illustrating an example method for fitting golf equipment in accordance with one embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 2 is a flow chart illustrating an example method for collecting swing data in accordance with the invention.
  • Figure 3 is a flow chart illustrating an example method for collecting launch data in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating example components that can comprise a golf equipment fitting system configured in accordance with one embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 5 A is a diagram illustrating a double crest load pattern for a golfer's swing as determined by the process of figure 2;
  • Figure 5B is a diagram illustrating a flat line load pattern for a golfer's swing as determined by the process of figure 2;
  • Figure 5C is a diagram illustrating a single crest load pattern for a golfer's swing as determined by the process of figure 2;
  • Figure 5D is a diagram illustrating an incline load pattern for a golfer's swing as determined by the process of figure 2;
  • Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating an implementation of the system of figure 4 and the methods of figures 1, 2, and 3;
  • Figure 7 is a screen shot illustrating an example opening screen that can be displayed by the system of figure 4 to a user preparing to implement the methods of figures 1, 2, and 3;
  • Figure 8 is a screen shot illustrating an example shaft module screen that can be displayed by the system of figure 4 when implementing the method of figure 2;
  • Figure 9 is a screen shot illustrating an example launch module screen that can be displayed by the system of figure 4 when implementing the method of figure
  • Figure 10 is a screen shot illustrating an example optimization screen that can be displayed by the system of figure 4 to optimize the data collected during implementation of the method of figure 3;
  • Figure 11 is a screen shot illustrating an example swing module screen that can be displayed by the system of figure 4 when implementing the methods of figures 1, 2, and 3;
  • Figure 12 is a screen shot illustrating an example launch options screen that can be displayed by the system of figure 4 when implementing the method of figure
  • Figure 13 is a screen shot illustrating an example systems options screen that can be displayed by the system of figure 4 when implementing the method of figure
  • FIG 14 is a logical block diagram illustrating an exemplary computer system that can be that can be used to implement the system of figure 4.
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [025]
  • the golf equipment fitting process described herein can be implemented as a multi-step evaluation process that can be broadly divided into two phases.
  • the first phase involves an evaluation of a golfer's current golf equipment and swing technique.
  • the steps comprising the first phase require data collection to give discreet information concerning key attributes of the golfer's swing.
  • the swing data gathered during the first phase can be used to identify major swing flaws so that these flaws can be corrected before fitting the golfer with golf equipment.
  • figure 1 is a flow chart illustrating an example method for fitting golf equipment in accordance with one embodiment of the systems and methods described herein.
  • the method of figure 1 begins in step 102 where the golfer is interviewed in order to evaluate the current status of his golf game.
  • Step 102 can, for example, include determining through the interview process: what equipment the golfers has been using; what the player considers to be the strengths and weaknesses of his golf game; the courses and conditions the golfer will likely encounter; the level of competition the golfer encounters; and an evaluation of the swing technique of the golfer.
  • Evaluating the swing technique of the golfer can comprise observing the golfer hit several golf balls.
  • a video system such as video system 414 described below, is used to help evaluate the golfer's swing technique using, for example, a swing module 412, which is also described in more detail below.
  • certain swing flaws can be readily apparent. These swing flaws can, in certain embodiments, be adjusted prior to proceeding. In this case, identification of more subtle swing flaws can occur at a later stage. Alternatively, evaluation of swing technique and identification of swing flaws, no matter how apparent, can wait until swing evaluation, e.g., as described below in relation to step 106.
  • step 104 the golfer's current golf clubs are evaluated.
  • This evaluation can, for example, include measuring the flex, lie angle, and loft of the golfer's golf clubs.
  • the flex can be measured using standard flex charts.
  • the lie angle and loft are standard measurements of the golf club. Briefly, however, at address, the club shaft and the ground create an angle called the lie angle. In this position, the club is perfectly square to the target.
  • Another way to describe the lie angle is the angel between the centerline of the golf club shaft and the horizontal grooves on the clubface. The same lie angle does not suit all players. Physical differences, e.g. height, arm-length, etc. can require a different lie angle for one golfer compared to another.
  • step 106 the golfer's swing is evaluated and data is collected regarding the swing in step 108.
  • This swing data can then be combined, in step 110, with the information gathered in step 102 to generate a baseline performance matrix for the golfer.
  • the performance matrix can be used to help determine if the golfer's swing technique needs modification in step 112. If it is determined that the golfer's technique needs to be modified, then he can be given instruction in step 114.
  • the instruction of step 114 should be designed to achieve specific modifications in the golfer's swing technique that will help the golfer to achieve a more efficient swing. Progress can be closely monitored, e.g., by repeating steps 106 - 114 as required.
  • step 118 the process of figure 1 can involve swing technique evaluation and instruction, it can be preferable for steps 102 - 114 to be carried out by, or with the assistance of, a golf professional. In fact, it can be preferable for the entire golf equipment fitting process to be carried out by a golf professional.
  • the swing evaluation and data collection of steps 106 and 108 are described in more detail below in relation to the flow chart of figure 2.
  • step 112 Once it is determined, in step 112, that the golfer's technique is sufficient, the data collected can be combined with launch data, in step 118, to fit the golfer with optimized equipment including shaft, club, and ball.
  • the launch evaluation of step 118 is described in more detail below in relation to the flow chart of figure 3.
  • step 118 The launch evaluation of step 118 can be followed by further swing evaluation (step 106). Alternatively, all swing evaluation steps can be completed prior to the launch evaluation of step 118. In either case, once the swing evaluation, step 106, and launch evolution 118, are completed in step 116, then the resulting information can be used to specify parameters that describe the optimum golf equipment for the golfer in step 120.
  • FIG. 2 is a flow chart illustrating an example method for collecting swing data in accordance with the systems and methods described herein.
  • the load time is defined as the time the golfer loads the shaft during his downswing. The loading starts just prior to, or at the top of, the golfer's back swing and ends at impact with the golf ball.
  • the load time provides an indication of how quickly the golfer swings a golf club from the top of his back swing to impact with the golf ball.
  • a load time that is too fast, or too slow tends to be difficult to repeat and can result in many of the typical performance problems that golfers experience. For example, a load time that is too long generally results in a lack of power and inconsistent launch conditions. It has been shown, using the systems and methods described, herein that load time is generally optimized when it falls between 0.45 to 0.50 seconds.
  • step 204 data related to the load pattern for the golfer's swing can be collected.
  • the load pattern is defined as the deflection, or load of the golf club shaft as a function of time during the downswing.
  • Different types of load patterns indicate different swing tendencies.
  • a "single crest" load pattern as shown in figure 5C indicates a swing where the golfer tends to release his wrist too early. This situation is often referred to as casting, i.e., the golfer is casting the golf club much the same way a fishermen casts a fishing rod.
  • the y-axis corresponds to the deflection in inches, while the x-axis corresponds to time.
  • the point of impact with the golf ball corresponds to the point 506 where the curve touches, or approaches, the x-axis.
  • curve 510 it can be seen from curve 510 that the golfer loaded the club early in the golf swing, creating significant deflection or load, but then released the load well before impact with the golf ball.
  • a "single crest" load pattern is sometimes said to indicate t that the golfer loads the club too quickly at the initiation of the downswing and then decelerates during the rest of the downswing.
  • a "double crest" load pattern is illustrated in figure 5A.
  • a double crest load pattern can indicate a situation where the golfer initiates loading at the start of the downswing, as illustrated by crest 502, and then reloads the club with his wrist just prior to impact, as illustrated by crest 504. This is indicative of a golfer whose swing is not smooth and is typically too long which again makes it difficult to make consistent contact with the golf ball.
  • a "flat line” load pattern is illustrated in figure 5B.
  • the flat line load pattern can indicate a situation where the golfer has little or no significant load during the downswing as illustrated by load pattern curve 508.
  • a golfer with a flat line load pattern does not generate enough energy to deflect the shaft and will not create solid or consistent contact with the golf ball
  • the "incline" load pattern illustrated in figure 5D is indicative of an optimum load pattern.
  • An incline load pattern is a linear loading, as illustrated by linear portion 512, of the shaft, where the crest load 514 occurs just prior to impact.
  • a swing that results in an incline load pattern makes the most use of the stored energy in the shaft and is therefore the most efficient.
  • the systems and methods described herein can be the model for the systems and methods describe herein.
  • swing parameters that define the golfer's swing can be derived from the swing data collected in steps 202 and 204.
  • a load time can be derived from the load time data collected in step 202.
  • the load time can be an average of the data collected for multiple swings.
  • a peak load, or deflection, can also be derived from the load pattern data collected in step 204. Again the peak load can be averaged over several swings.
  • a swing ramp can also be derived for the golfer.
  • the swing ramp is a measure of the potential energy of the swing and can be measured in miles per hour. Thus, it is similar to the club speed used in conventional techniques.
  • the data collected in steps 202 and 204, and derived therefrom, can also be used to generate a shaft flex measurement.
  • the load time, peak load, and swing ramp can be correlated to a standard shaft flex measurement.
  • This measurement can simply be a standard numerical indicator that corresponds to a certain standard shaft flex, i.e., stiff, regular, etc.
  • step 206 The swing parameters derived in step 206 can then be displayed in step
  • the parameters derived in step 206 can be displayed in conjunction with a graph of the load pattern of step 204, i.e., the patterns of figures 5A - 5D.
  • the displayed information can then be used to help evaluate the golfer's swing in step 210 and to identify any swing flaws using the information displayed. For example, if the information displayed in step 208 indicates that the golfer has a "single crest" load pattern, then this can be identified in step 212 and instruction can be given to the golfer to correct the early release, or casting, flaw in the golfer's swing.
  • a video system such as video system 414 can be used in conjunction with the swing data collected in steps 202 - 206 and displayed in step 208 to analyze the golfer's swing.
  • a video system can comprise video, or high-speed cameras oriented, for example, directly behind the golfer and pointed down the target line and/or facing the golfer as he makes his swings.
  • the images of the golfer's swing generated by the video system can then be displayed and can be correlated to the load pattern.
  • the swing video can be consulted to help assess the problem and to allow the golfer to visualize the swing flaw and begin working to correct it.
  • Various swing flaws which result in improper load time and load pattern, can then be corrected in step 214. This process, which is useful in modifying the golfer's technique also results in increased ball speed, appropriate launch angle, and spin rates.
  • steps 202 - 212 can be repeated until a more optimum swing is achieved. This results in a better swing and a better fitting than conventional fitting techniques, because the golfer swing is improved to the point where he can make better more consistent contact, rather than fitting the golfer for equipment when his swing has flaws that will prevent him from consistently making contact even with his new fitted equipment.
  • a shaft stiffness recommendation can be obtained from the swing parameters derived in step 208.
  • the swing characteristics derived in step 208 can be used to recommend shaft stiffness for the golfer.
  • launch data can be collected.
  • launch data is collected for the golfer using the golfer's driver.
  • Launch data can be collected using a high-speed camera system, such as a system 416, focused closely on the golf ball.
  • the golf ball is then marked with particular markings to allow launch data to be derived from the high-speed pictures obtained from the high-speed camera system.
  • Launch data can include, e.g., the initial velocity of the golf ball as it is launched, the spin rate of the golf ball as it is launched, and the launch angle of the golf ball relative to the ground.
  • the spin rate can include components of backspin, sidespin, and rifle spin, each of which can be calculated depending on the embodiment.
  • the launch angle can also include both components of left/right deviation with the target line and the angle with the horizon.
  • ball flight information can be derived in step 304 for each swing of the golf club. For example, based on the images captured by the high speed camera system, the ball speed, spin, and launch angle can be derived as well as how far the ball would have carried, an estimation of how far the ball would travel all together, i.e., including roll, and a deviation from the center line. The deviation can be measured in degrees right or left of the centerline.
  • the information derived in step 304 can then be displayed in step 306, e.g., by system 400. For example, not only can the values for the derived information be displayed, e.g., in a table, but a graphical illustration of the ball flight can also be displayed.
  • the process of figure 3 can be started using the golfer's own driver, or other equipment.
  • the data collected can then be used to start fine-tuning the golfer's equipment to achieve the optimum ball flight, including a fine-tuning of the shaft recommendation of step 216 described above.
  • fine-tuning of the shaft recommendation of step 216 described above.
  • the golfer's ball speed with an optimized combination of launch angle and spin rate.
  • a club with a shaft flex in the range of that recommended in step 216 can be used to obtain and display more date, i.e., steps 302-306 are repeated.
  • the shaft flex can then be fined tuned in step 308, by continuing to use clubs with various shaft flexes until a shaft flex that appears optimal is determined.
  • different clubs with various shaft materials, gram weights, tip sections, lengths, torques and can be tested in steps 310-318, and steps 302-306 repeated, until an optimum ball flight is achieved as depicted, for example, by the data displayed in step 306.
  • Various types of grips and grip weights can also be tested in steps 320-322.
  • two different golf clubs can have the same frequency, or flex range, but have entirely different performance characteristics.
  • a shaft can be stiffer in the tip, or stiffer in the butt, when compared to another shaft.
  • Torsional stiffness, or torque can also play an important part in the overall performance of a golf club.
  • two different clubs can be well fitted to the golfer in terms of shaft stiffness, they can produce entirely different launch conditions.
  • the golfer can be properly fitted with the best equipment for his technique.
  • the best equipment for the particular golfer can be identified.
  • the driver is an important club for every golfer and has some very specific characteristics that may need to be adjusted to obtain the best driver performance for a particular golfer's technique.
  • step 330 when fitting the golfer for a driver, various driver lofts (step 324), head types (step 326), and club head centers of gravity (step 328) can be tested to arrive at an optimal driver ball flight characteristic.
  • different ball types can be tested in step 330 to optimize distance when using the driver.
  • Different ball types have different spin rates, which should be matched to the launch angle and the ball speed. For example, a higher spin rate can cause the ball to get higher in the air off the club face, which can reduce distance.
  • a golfer may need to increase the spin rate in order to gain distance.
  • the object of step 330 is to find the optimum spin characteristics for a particular golfer's ball flight trajectory and other characteristics.
  • the objective in driver fitting is to maximize distance, control, and consistency. Fitting the golfer to the appropriate shaft flex, driver lofts, shaft weights, ball type, club head type, center of gravity of club head, and shaft bend profiles can be intended to achieve as high a ball velocity as possible coupled with the appropriate launch angle and spin rate.
  • the process of figure 3 can be repeated for all of the golfer's clubs including the driver, fairway woods, irons, wedges, and putters. Each type of golf club results in a unique set of issues that have to be addressed, or optimized during the club fitting process. For the fairway woods and irons, for example, the target often is to have each club hit a certain distance with a high degree of repeatability.
  • each consecutive club in the set should have a distance gap between it and the next club so the golfer can easily achieve hitting the ball from any distance to the target.
  • the goal is more directed toward tight dispersion and distance control rather than just distance. Therefore, the lofts of each club need to be set at the appropriate amount.
  • the objective is to be able to achieve various types of short game shots. Some types of shots require maximum spin while others require higher launch angles.
  • the fitting process of figure 3 can be tailored to achieve performance evaluation for various wedge types that will optimize lofts, flanges, bounce angles, and other features necessary to master various shots that can be encountered by the golfer.
  • Several techniques can be used to further optimize the club fitting process.
  • a maximum ball height can be used as a ceiling for the ball flight characteristics when testing various equipment in steps 308-330.
  • a good maximum ceiling height for the ball to fly during a drive is 125 feet. So the goal can be to get as high a launch angle and as low a backspin as possible as long as the ball flight is less than 125 ft.
  • a trajectory model can then be used to predict the peak height a ball flies for a given launch condition, as determined in steps 302-306.
  • a relationship that limits the launch angle and backspin for a given ball velocity so that the peak is less than 125 feet is then used when fitting the golfer with equipment. It should be noted that the maximum ceiling might change from golfer to golfer depending on the altitude and standard weather conditions of the golf course that the golfer typically plays.
  • a special type of club head can be used.
  • a driver head that can be manufactured to have the same dimensions but different centers of gravity can be configured so that the driver head can be quickly assembled onto a driver shaft.
  • Different shafts i.e., shafts of different materials, lengths, gram weights, torques, etc., and with different types of grips and grip weights can then be maintained and configured to quickly assemble onto the driver head.
  • the driver head can be configured to quickly snap, or twists onto the end of a shaft.
  • the driver head can be further configured to work in conjunction with a fastener to ensure that the driver head stays on the shaft during testing.
  • a screw such as an Alan Head screw
  • the screw can then be tightened to ensure the driver head remains secured to the shaft.
  • step 332 the lie angle of the golfer's clubs can be measured using, e.g., impact tape on the bottom of each club. This is often done for the irons and wedges.
  • the golfer can take equipment comprising characteristics derived at steps 302-330 and hit balls using the tape.
  • the impact tape can help determine if the club head is in a "toe-up” or “toe-down” position at impact. Adjustments in the lie angle can then be made until the golfer is striking the ball constantly with the "sweet-spot" of the club face.
  • step 334 all of the information needed to fit the golfer with equipment that will result in optimum performance should ( be known and parameters associated with, or identifying, the optimum equipment can be derived in step 334.
  • the parameters of step 332 can be used to identify specific clubs, and manufacturers, that should work well for the golfer. The parameters can then be forwarded directly to the manufacturer as part of an order for customized clubs. Then, when the customized clubs arrive, they can be checked using the parameters to make sure they are right and adjusted or returned as required.
  • Figure 4 is a diagram of a golf equipment fitting system configured in accordance with one embodiment of the systems and methods described herein.
  • system 400 comprises three main components: a shaft-fitting component 420; a launch fitting component 422 and a swing assessment component 424.
  • shaft-fitting component 420 comprises a shaft module 408 and a wireless receiver 404.
  • Wireless receiver 404 can be configured to receive swing data from a wireless transmitter 402, which can be interfaced with strain gauges coupled to a golf club shaft being swung by the golfer.
  • wireless transmitter 402 can be interfaced with several strain gauges disposed along the shaft of the golf club. Often, the strain gauges are disposed inside the shaft itself. Wireless transmitter 402 can, for example, be coupled with a strap configured to strap the transmitter to the golfer's wrist. In such an implementation, there can be wires coming from the end of the shaft to the wireless transmitter, which is strapped to the golfer's wrist. Thus, it is important to use enough wire so that wireless transmitter 402 does not interfere with the golfer's swing.
  • each strain gauge can be comprise its own wireless transmitter 402.
  • a strain gauge and wireless transmitter 402 can be included in a single device installed inside the shaft.
  • one or more wireless transmitter can be inserted into the shaft, or otherwise disposed on the shaft and interfaced with one or more strain gauges.
  • Swing data collected from the strain-gauged clubs can be used to help approximate the proper shaft flex and tip section recommendations as describe above.
  • the strain-gauged clubs not only measure how the shaft is loaded but also the deflection of the shaft during the swing.
  • the collected swing data is then sent to shaft module 408 for processing in accordance with the system sand methods described herein.
  • the processed data can then be turned into shaft recommendations. For example, the peak deflection during the downswing can indicate the proper shaft flex for the golfer.
  • a golfer with a peak deflection of ⁇ 3" can need a L, A, or R flex shaft. All others can need an R or S flex shaft.
  • the thrust velocity of the shaft through impact can be determined by shaft module 408 and used to determine an approximate shaft tip recommendation.
  • a golfer with a relatively high thrust velocity of greater than 5 mph, for example, can be biased toward a stiffer shaft.
  • Launch fitting component 422 can, in one embodiment, comprise a highspeed camera system 416 and a launch module 410.
  • High-speed camera system 416 can, for example, comprise a color CCD camera combined with a strobe unit.
  • a color high-speed camera By using a color high-speed camera, more accurate, or more reliable launch data can be obtained. For example, because a color high-speed camera is used, markings comprising two or more different colors, e.g., blue and red, can be placed on the golf ball and used to derive spin information. Images can, for example, be acquired by firing the strobe as the golf ball is impacted and is launched from the clubface. High- speed camera system 416 can then be configured to acquire two images during this period. The two different color markings will be in a certain position in the first image, but will have changed positions in the second image according to the spin of the golf ball as well as the trajectory of the golf ball.
  • markings comprising two or more different colors, e.g., blue and red
  • Images can, for example, be acquired by firing the strobe as the golf ball is impacted and is launched from the clubface.
  • High- speed camera system 416 can then be configured to acquire two images during this period. The two different color markings will be in
  • Swing assessment component 424 can comprise a video system 414 and a swing module 412.
  • Video system 414 can comprise one or more video cameras, or one or more high-speed cameras, depending on the implementation. For example, one video camera can be placed in front of the golfer and one can be positioned down the target line of the golfer's swing. Images captured by the cameras are sent to swing module
  • the images can then ( be pulled up and displayed.
  • the images can be allowed to run, i.e., like a video stream so that the golfer can view his swing.
  • the images can then be used to assess the golfer's swing in association with the information being gathered and displayed by shaft module
  • shaft module 408, launch module 410, and swing module 412 can comprise the requisite hardware, software, or combination thereof required to implement the functions described above.
  • each module can comprise a standalone system.
  • each module can comprise part of a larger system 406.
  • each module can comprise part of a software program loaded onto a single computer system.
  • An exemplary computer system is described in more detail below. But it should be noted that such a computer system can comprise customized hardware or software components or interfaces as required by a particular module.
  • system 400 can be adapted so that it can be included in a kiosk 600 with a display 602 for displaying the information as described above.
  • kiosk 600 can comprise a computer system configured to implement the functionality of shaft module 408, launch module 410, and swing module 412.
  • a golfer 606 can stand on a mat 612 and make several swings.
  • the computer system included in kiosk 600 can then receive swing data from strain gauges disposed on shaft 608.
  • Launch data can be obtained from high-speed camera 604.
  • the computer system can process the received data and generate information to be displayed on display 602.
  • launch information can be easily and readily combined with other information, such as that provided by shaft module 408 to more effectively fit the golfer with equipment.
  • images of the golfer's swing can be acquired by swing module during the fitting process and used evaluate the golfer's swing.
  • flaws in the golfer's swing e.g., as indicated by the launch or swing data collected by launch module 410 and shaft module 408 respectively, can be viewed and hopefully corrected using the images captured and displayed by swing analysis component 424.
  • Having all three components 420, 422, and 424 available in the same system 400 makes fitting easier and more effective.
  • system 400 can be configured to allow a user to access information form each component 420, 422, and 424 as required during the fitting process. This makes fitting even more efficient and effective.
  • FIGs 7-13 are screen shots illustrating various screens that can be displayed on display 602.
  • a screen shot of an opening screen 700 that can be displayed when a user, i.e., a golf pro preparing to fit a golfer with golf equipment, can see when they first run the software loaded onto the computer system included in kiosk 600.
  • a selection window 702 is displayed that allows the user to access one of several functions, e.g., via radio buttons 704.
  • the user can, for example, proceed past opening screen 700 by electing to start a new fitting process using radio buttons 704. This can cause a shaft module screen 800, such as the one illustrated by the screen shot of figure 8, to be displayed to the user.
  • Shaft module screen 800 can be used to display the information generated by shaft module 408.
  • screen 800 can include a graphical display area 802 configured to display information related to the loading of a shaft being swung by a golfer being fitted for golf equipment using, e.g., kiosk 600.
  • the information displayed in area 802 can comprise curves, such as those depicted in figures 5A through 5D, for each swing.
  • the curves being displayed in area 802 can be used to assess the golfer's swing in order to help the golfer make needed swing improvements to optimize the fitting process.
  • screen 800 can include a table 804 in which swing parameters, e.g., time, peak flex, ramp potential, and corresponding flex, derived for each swing can be displayed.
  • data can be displayed for the previous 5 swings.
  • the bottom row 806 of table 804 can be used to display averages for the values displayed in the table.
  • the average values can be used, for example, to make shaft recommendations for use in the rest of the fitting process as described above and as further illustrated below.
  • Screen 800 can also include a table 810 that can be used to display information obtained during launch analysis described below.
  • the user can have launch analysis information available in order to help the user recommend a shaft or analyze the golfer's swing.
  • the launch data for the previous 5 swings can be displayed in table 810.
  • screen 800 can include a toolbar 812, with radio buttons 816 that allow the user to quickly jump from shaft module screen 800 to the launch module screen 900 and to swing module screen 1100. Screens 900 and 1100 are described below, but the ability to quickly access these screens allow the user to more effectively use all the tools available to analyze the golfer's swing in order to arrive at an optimal equipment fitting recommendation.
  • Screen 900 illustrated in the screen shot of figure 9, can actually be displayed by launch module 410 while launch data is being gathered.
  • screen 900 can comprise a table 910 for displaying the launch information being derived, e.g., ball speed, spin, launch angle, carry distance, and total distance.
  • table 910 can comprise columns 906 for data related to the deviation of the ball flight from the center, or target line.
  • columns 906 can be used to display a deviation from the centerline i in degrees as well as side spin information.
  • Table 910 can also include a row 918 in which averages for the values displayed in table 910 can be displayed. For example, in the embodiment of figure 9, column 918 is used to display averages for the previous 7 swings.
  • Screen 900 can also include a graphic data area 914 for displaying graphical information related to ball flight as derived, e.g., by launch module 410.
  • a graph of the ball fight illustrating height, e.g., in feet, and distance, e.g., in yards, can be displayed in area 914.
  • another graphical area 912 can be included to graphically illustrate the deviation from the centerline.
  • area 912 can be configured to graphically illustrate a distance, e.g., in yards, and a deviation, e.g., in degrees.
  • Radio control buttons 904 can be included to allow the user to graphically display, in areas 914 and 912, data for each swing, a particular swing such as the last swing, the average of all swings, etc. Similar control buttons 808 can be included in screen 800.
  • Screen 900 can also include a tool bar 902 in which information related to the equipment currently being used can be displayed. Thus, the golfer can make a few swings and launch data can be gathered and displayed on screen 900. Based on the information, the user can suggest equipment changes, i.e., a lower spinning ball, a stiffer shaft, etc.
  • a launch optimization screen 1000 can even be invoked to help optimize the launch data being collected.
  • launch optimization screen can be used to quickly assess the optimum launch conditions for a certain golfer based on information collected by launch module 410.
  • Swing module screen 1100 an example of which is illustrated by the screen shot of figure 11, can be included to allow the user and the golfer to view the images captured by video system 414 and processed by swing module 412.
  • Screen 1100 can, as illustrated in the example of figure 11, comprise two halves, with each half comprising a video display area 1102 and 1106 and control areas 1104 and 1108 respectively.
  • the controls comprising control area 1104 can be used to play, freeze, rewind, fast forward, etc.
  • Video display area 1106 can display real time images.
  • the images being displayed can, in certain embodiments, be switched from one camera making up video system 414 to the next.
  • one half of screen 1000 can be used to display images from one camera, while the other half is use to display images from another camera.
  • Launch options screen 1200 can be used to enter information about the equipment presently being used in conjunction with gathering launch data to be displayed in screen 900.
  • Options screen 1300 can be included to display information related to each of screen 800, 900, and 1100 simultaneously.
  • screen 1300 can comprise a shaft area 1302 in which controls for the operation of shaft module 408 can be manipulated.
  • screen 1300 can comprise launch area 1304 and swing area 1306 in which controls for the operation of launch module 410 and swing module 412, respectively, can be manipulated.
  • modules 408, 410, and 412 can be implemented as software modules, possibly with associated specialized hardware interfaces, within a computer system in kiosk 600.
  • kiosk 600 can comprise a computer system loaded with software modules 408, 410, and 412.
  • Figure 14 is a logical block diagram illustrating an example embodiment of a computer system 1400 that can be used to implement the system of figure 4.
  • computer system 1400 of figure 14 is presented as a simple example of a processing system.
  • computer system 1400 comprises a processor 1410 configured to control the operation of computer system 1400, memory 1404, storage 1406, a Input/Output (I O) interfaces 1408, a display output 1412, a user interface 1414, and a bus 1402 configured to interface the various components comprising computer system 1400.
  • processor 1410 in one embodiment, comprises a plurality of processing circuits, such as math coprocessor, network processors, digital signal processors, audio processors, etc.
  • Processor 1410 also comprise an execution area into which instructions stored in memory 1404 are loaded and executed by processor 1410 in order to control the operation of computer system 1400.
  • processor 1410 can be configured to implement the functionality of modules 408, 410, and 412.
  • Memory 1404 can comprise a main memory configured to store the instructions just referred to. In one embodiment, memory 1404 can also comprise a secondary memory used to temporarily store instructions or to store information input into computer system 1400, i.e., memory 1404 can act as scratch memory also. Memory 1404 can comprise, depending on the embodiment, a plurality of memory circuits, which can be included as a single device, or as a plurality of devices.
  • Storage 1406 can include, in certain embodiments, a plurality of drives configured to receive various electronic media.
  • storage 1406 includes a floppy drive configured to receive a floppy disk, a compact disk drive configured to receive a compact disk, and/or a digital video disk drive configured to receive a digital videodisk.
  • storage 1406 can also include disk drives, which can include removable disk drives. The drives included in storage 1406 can be used, for example, to receive electronic media that has stored thereon instructions to be loaded into memory 1404 and used by processor 1410 to control the operation of computer system 1400.
  • I O interfaces 1408 can be configured to allow computer system 1400 to interface with devices such as video system 414, high-speed camera system 416, and receiver 404.
  • I O interface 1408 can comprise the interface hardware required to receive signals from the various components used to collect the data used by modules 408, 410, and 412.
  • Display interface 1412 can be configured to allow computer system 1400 to interface with a display.
  • computer system 1400 can display the information, described in relation to the example screen shots described above, to a user via display interface 1412.
  • User interface 1414 can be configured to allow a user to interface with computer system 1400.
  • user interface 1414 can include a mouse interface, a keyboard interface, an audio interface, etc.
  • user interface 1414 can include a mouse interface, a keyboard interface, an audio interface, etc.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Biophysics (AREA)
  • Golf Clubs (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un système d'adaptation d'équipement de golf qui emploie une technologie avancée, non seulement pour identifier de façon objective l'équipement optimal pour le golfeur, mais aussi identifier et aider à corriger des erreurs de swing de sorte que le golfeur peut réaliser des performances optimales sur le terrain de golf. Ainsi, dans un mode de réalisation, l'adaptation de golf comprend la collecte de données relatives au swing du golfeur et la détermination de si la technique de swing du golfeur doit être modifiée en se basant au moins en partie sur les données de swing collectées. Lorsqu'il est déterminé que la technique de swing du golfeur doit être modifiée, des instructions de swing sont données au golfeur. Par contre, lorsque la technique de swing du golfeur est déterminée comme bonne, des données relatives à la manière dont le swing du golfeur lance une balle de golf, sont collectées. Pour finir, un équipement de golf, par x. des clubs de golf, peut être spécifié en se basant sur les données de swing et les donnés de lancer collectées.
PCT/US2004/039814 2003-11-26 2004-11-23 Systemes et procedes pour adapter un equipement de golf WO2005053798A2 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (6)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/722,580 US8827842B2 (en) 2002-01-18 2003-11-26 Systems and methods for fitting golf equipment
US10/722,579 2003-11-26
US10/722,579 US7166035B2 (en) 2002-01-18 2003-11-26 Systems and methods for fitting golf equipment
US10/722,580 2003-11-26
US10/722,585 2003-11-26
US10/722,585 US7159451B2 (en) 2002-01-18 2003-11-26 Systems and methods for fitting golf equipment

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WO2005053798A2 true WO2005053798A2 (fr) 2005-06-16
WO2005053798A3 WO2005053798A3 (fr) 2009-04-16

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GB2453253A (en) * 2007-09-28 2009-04-01 Karsten Mfg Corp Fitting golf clubs to a user using club gap distance
JP2009226215A (ja) * 2008-03-19 2009-10-08 Karsten Manufacturing Corp ゴルフクラブのカスタムフィッティングのための方法、装置、及びシステム
GB2462134A (en) * 2007-09-28 2010-01-27 Karsten Mfg Corp Custom fitting of golf clubs to a user using displays
US8360899B2 (en) 2007-09-28 2013-01-29 Karsten Manfacturing Corporation Methods, apparatus, and systems to custom fit golf clubs
US8371962B2 (en) 2007-09-28 2013-02-12 Karsten Manufacturing Corporation Methods apparatus, and systems to custom fit golf clubs
US8444509B2 (en) 2007-09-28 2013-05-21 Karsten Manufacturing Corporation Methods, apparatus, and systems to custom fit golf clubs
WO2014149221A3 (fr) * 2013-03-15 2015-01-08 Nike Innovate C.V. Ajustement d'une balle de golf à l'aide d'un détecteur de caractéristiques de frappe
US9827464B2 (en) 2007-09-28 2017-11-28 Karsten Manufacturing Corporation Methods, apparatus, and systems to custom fit golf clubs
WO2020142617A1 (fr) * 2019-01-03 2020-07-09 True Temper Sports, Inc. Accessoire de batte

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US8371962B2 (en) 2007-09-28 2013-02-12 Karsten Manufacturing Corporation Methods apparatus, and systems to custom fit golf clubs
US9827464B2 (en) 2007-09-28 2017-11-28 Karsten Manufacturing Corporation Methods, apparatus, and systems to custom fit golf clubs
GB2462134A (en) * 2007-09-28 2010-01-27 Karsten Mfg Corp Custom fitting of golf clubs to a user using displays
GB2453253B (en) * 2007-09-28 2012-10-17 Karsten Mfg Corp Methods,apparatus and systems to custom fit golf clubs
GB2462134B (en) * 2007-09-28 2012-10-24 Karsten Mfg Corp Methods apparatus and systems to custom fit golf clubs
US8360899B2 (en) 2007-09-28 2013-01-29 Karsten Manfacturing Corporation Methods, apparatus, and systems to custom fit golf clubs
US8747246B2 (en) 2007-09-28 2014-06-10 Karsten Manufacturing Corporation Methods, apparatus, and systems to custom fit golf clubs
GB2453253A (en) * 2007-09-28 2009-04-01 Karsten Mfg Corp Fitting golf clubs to a user using club gap distance
US8444509B2 (en) 2007-09-28 2013-05-21 Karsten Manufacturing Corporation Methods, apparatus, and systems to custom fit golf clubs
US8852028B2 (en) 2007-09-28 2014-10-07 Karsten Manufacturing Corporation Methods, apparatus, and systems to custom fit golf clubs
US9675862B2 (en) 2007-09-28 2017-06-13 Karsten Manufacturing Corporation Methods, apparatus, and systems to custom fit golf clubs
JP2009226215A (ja) * 2008-03-19 2009-10-08 Karsten Manufacturing Corp ゴルフクラブのカスタムフィッティングのための方法、装置、及びシステム
WO2014149221A3 (fr) * 2013-03-15 2015-01-08 Nike Innovate C.V. Ajustement d'une balle de golf à l'aide d'un détecteur de caractéristiques de frappe
WO2020142617A1 (fr) * 2019-01-03 2020-07-09 True Temper Sports, Inc. Accessoire de batte

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