U.S. patent application number 10/134357 was filed with the patent office on 2002-09-05 for methods and systems for analyzing the motion of sporting equipment.
Invention is credited to Perlmutter, Michael S..
Application Number | 20020123386 10/134357 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26934680 |
Filed Date | 2002-09-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020123386 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Perlmutter, Michael S. |
September 5, 2002 |
Methods and systems for analyzing the motion of sporting
equipment
Abstract
The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods for
analyzing the motion of a sporting equipment, such as a golf club,
a baseball bat, a hockey stick, a football or a tennis racquet, for
example. The systems comprises a motion sensing system in
communications with the sporting equipment to measure motion
parameters, wherein the motion sensing system has at least one at
least one accelerometer or at least one gyroscope, and a command
station having a data acquisition system to process the measured
motion parameters and produce data. The motion sensing system may
be located on the sporting equipment or, optionally, within the
sporting equipment. The systems and methods described herein can be
used to determine the impact location of the sporting equipment
with another object, the force of the sporting equipment, the
velocity of the sporting equipment and/or the angular orientation
of the sporting equipment during a motion.
Inventors: |
Perlmutter, Michael S.;
(Sherborn, MA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Donna M. Meuth
BURNS, DOANE, SWECKER & MATHIS, L.L.P.
P.O. Box 1404
Alexandria
VA
22313-1404
US
|
Family ID: |
26934680 |
Appl. No.: |
10/134357 |
Filed: |
April 30, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10134357 |
Apr 30, 2002 |
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09966010 |
Sep 28, 2001 |
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60241912 |
Oct 20, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
473/223 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 69/36 20130101;
A63B 2225/50 20130101; A63B 69/38 20130101; A63B 2024/0034
20130101; A63B 69/0026 20130101; A63B 69/002 20130101; A63B
2220/833 20130101; A63B 2220/40 20130101; G01C 21/16 20130101; G01P
15/00 20130101; A63B 69/3632 20130101; A63B 2024/0012 20130101;
A63B 24/0021 20130101; A63B 2069/0008 20130101; A63B 69/3685
20130101; A63B 2220/44 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/223 |
International
Class: |
A63B 057/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An instrumented golf club system comprising: an instrumented
golf club, the instrumented golf club comprising a club head and a
shaft attached to the club head, at least one sensor disposed on or
within the golf club, the at least one sensor capable of measuring
data related to the club head or the shaft during a golf swing,
and, an internal memory device capable of receiving and storing
data from the at least one sensor, the internal memory device
disposed on or within the golf club; a computer for processing the
data from the internal memory device; and, a mechanism capable of
providing communication between the instrumented golf club and the
computer; wherein the club further comprises a first contact
mateable with the mechanism for electronically communicating data
from the instrumented golf club to the computer.
2. The instrumented golf club system according to claim 1, wherein
the internal memory device is a read/write memory, the read/write
memory capable of continually recording data when the instrumented
golf club is in an operative state, and capable of capturing data
both prior to and following an impact event.
3. An instrumented golf club system comprising: an instrumented
golf club, the instrumented golf club comprising a club head and a
shaft attached to the club head, at least one sensor disposed on or
within the golf club, the at least one sensor capable of measuring
data related to the club head or the shaft during a golf swing,
and, an internal memory device capable of receiving and storing
data from the at least one sensor, the internal memory device
disposed on or within the golf club; a computer for processing the
data from the internal memory device; and, a mechanism capable of
providing communication between the instrumented golf club and the
computer; wherein the club further comprises a first contact and
the mechanism is capable of providing external power to the
instrumented golf club via the first contact.
4. A method for measuring and storing golf swing data, the method
comprising: placing an instrumented golf club into an operative
state; recording data from at least one sensor disposed within or
on the instrumented golf club, the data recorded to an internal
memory device disposed on or within the instrumented golf club;
sensing a first impact event by the instrumented golf club; saving
data to the internal memory device for a first predetermined period
of time prior to the first impact event and a second predetermined
period of time following the first impact event; connecting the
instrumented golf club with an external mechanism wherein the
instrumented golf club comprises a first contact and the external
mechanism is mateably adapted for communication between the
instrumented golf club and the computer; and, communicating the
data from the internal memory device of the instrumented golf club
to a computer via the mechanism.
5. The method according to claim 4, wherein the internal memory
device continually records data in increments.
6. The method according to claim 4, wherein the at least one sensor
is a first angular rate sensor, the first angular rate sensor
capable of directly measuring an angular rotation rate at a
predetermined location on or within the instrumented golf club.
7. The method according to claim 4, further comprising recording
data from a plurality of sensors to the internal memory device.
8. A method for measuring, storing, transferring and presenting
golf swing data, the method comprising: placing an instrumented
golf club into an operative state; recording data from at least one
sensor disposed within or on the instrumented golf club, the data
recorded to an internal memory device disposed on or within the
instrumented golf club; sensing a first impact event by the
instrumented golf club; saving data to the internal memory device
for a first predetermined period of time prior to the first impact
event and a second predetermined period of time following the first
impact event; connecting the instrumented golf club in
communication with an external mechanism capable of transferring
data from the instrumented golf club to a computer wherein the
instrumented golf club comprises a first contact and the external
mechanism is mateably adapted for communication between the
instrumented golf club and the computer; processing the data in the
computer; and, presenting the data in a visual format.
9. The method according to claim 8, further comprising manipulating
the data to transform the data into a graphical representation of a
predetermined portion of a golfer's actual recorded golf swing.
10. The method according to claim 8, further comprising
manipulating the data to transform the data into a graphical
representation of a golf club head traveling through a golf ball
impact region.
11. The method according to claim 8, wherein at least one sensor is
a first angular rate sensor, the first angular rate sensor capable
of directly measuring an angular rotation rate at a predetermined
location on or within the instrumented golf club.
12. The method according to claim 8, further comprising recording
data from a plurality of sensors to the internal memory device.
13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the plurality of
sensors comprises at least one strain sensor and at least one
acceleration sensor.
14. The method according to claim 8, wherein the internal memory
device is a read/write memory, the read/write memory capable of
continually recording data when the instrumented golf club is in an
operative state, and capable of capturing data both prior to and
following an impact event.
15. An instrumented golf club comprising: a club head and a shaft
attached to the club head; an angular rate sensor disposed within
the golf club, the angular rate sensor capable of measuring data
related to the rotation rate of the shaft during a golf swing; and,
an internal memory device capable of receiving and storing data
from the at least one sensor, the internal memory device disposed
on or within the golf club.
16. An instrumented golf club comprising: a club head and a shaft
attached to the club head; at least one sensor disposed on or
within the golf club, the at least one sensor capable of measuring
data related to the rotation rate of the shaft during a golf swing;
and, an internal memory device capable of receiving and storing
data from the at least one sensor, the internal memory device
disposed on or within the golf club, wherein the internal memory
device is read/write memory capable of recording data when the
instrumented golf club is in an operative state, and capable of
capturing data both prior to and following an impact event and
continuously storing such data.
17. The instrumented golf club according to claim 16, wherein the
read/write memory is capable of continually recording data in
increments.
18. The instrumented golf club according to claim 16, wherein the
read/write memory is capable of continually recording data in
increments.
19. The instrumented golf club according to claim 16, wherein the
at least one sensor is an accelerometer.
20. The instrumented golf club according to claim 16, wherein at
least one sensor is a first angular rate sensor, the first angular
rate sensor capable of directly measuring an angular rotation rate
at a predetermined location on or within the instrumented golf
club.
21. The instrumented golf club according to claim 15, further
comprising an internal cavity within the club head wherein the
internal cavity houses a first circuit, the first circuit
comprising a first electronic element.
22. An instrumented golf club comprising: at least one angular rate
sensor disposed on or within the instrumented golf club, the at
least one angular rate sensor capable of directly measuring an
angular rotation rate of the shaft of the instrumented golf club;
and, a memory device capable of receiving and storing data from the
at least one angular rate sensor.
23. An instrumented golf club system comprising: a club head and a
shaft attached to the club head, an angular rate sensor disposed
within the club, the at least one sensor capable of measuring data
related to the rotation rate of the club during a golf swing, an
internal memory device capable of receiving and storing data from
the at least one sensor, the internal memory device disposed within
the club; a computer for processing the data from the internal
memory device; and, an interface mechanism capable of providing
communication between the instrumented golf club and the
computer.
24. The instrumented golf club system according to claim 23,
wherein the internal memory device is a read/write memory, the
read/write memory capable of continually recording data when the
instrumented golf club is in an operative state, and capable of
capturing data both prior to and following an impact event.
25. The instrumented golf club system according to claim 23,
wherein the angular rate sensor is capable of directly measuring an
angular rotation rate at a predetermined location within the
instrumented golf club.
26. The instrumented golf club system according to claim 23,
wherein the read/write memory is capable of continually recording
data in increments.
27. A method for measuring and storing golf swing data, the method
comprising: placing an instrumented golf club into an operative
state; recording data from at least one sensor disposed within or
on the instrumented golf club, the data recorded to an internal
memory device disposed within the instrumented golf club; sensing a
first impact event by the instrumented golf club; and, saving data
to the internal memory device for a first predetermined period of
time prior to the first impact event and a second predetermined
period of time following the first impact event.
28. The method according to claim 27, wherein the internal memory
device records data in increments.
29. The method according to claim 27, wherein the at least one
sensor is a first angular rate sensor, the first angular rate
sensor capable of directly measuring an angular rotation rate at a
predetermined location on or within the instrumented golf club.
30. The method according to claim 27, further comprising:
connecting the instrumented golf club to a mechanism; and,
communicating the data from the internal memory device of the
instrumented golf club to a computer via the mechanism.
31. The method according to claim 27, further comprising recording
data from a plurality of sensors to the internal memory device.
32. An instrumented golf club system comprising: a shaft having a
hollow interior, an angular rate sensor disposed within a hollow
interior of the club, the angular rate sensor capable of measuring
data related to the shaft during a golf swing, a power supply
disposed within the hollow interior of the shaft, an electronic
circuit disposed within the hollow interior for the shaft, the
electronic circuit board having a memory circuit, a power control
circuit, and a communication circuit; a club head secured to the
shaft, the club head having a hollow interior, a plurality of
accelerometers disposed within the hollow interior of the club
head; a computer for processing the data from the electronic
circuit; and, a mechanism capable of providing communication
between the instrumented golf club and the computer.
33. The instrumented golf club according to claim 33 further
comprising means for the connecting the mechanism to the electronic
circuitry for transferring data from the electronic circuit to the
computer.
Description
REFERENCE TO RELATED U.S. APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation application of pending
application U.S. Ser. No. 09/966,010, filed Sep. 28, 2001, entitled
"Methods and Systems for Analyzing the Motion of Sporting
Equipment," naming Michael Perlmutter as inventor, the contents of
which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety, where
such application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 60/241,912, filed Oct. 20, 2000, the entire
contents of which are also herein incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field
[0003] This application relates to the recording and analyzing of
motion. More particularly to measuring and analyzing the motion of
a piece of sporting equipment.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] Many sporting events require a participant to use a device
(such as a bat, club, stick, or racquet) to propel a ball toward a
particular location. One of the key facets to playing these sports
well is the ability to create contact between the device and the
ball in such a manner that the player can predict where the ball is
likely to end up after the impact between the device and ball. In
the game of golf, for example, when a golf ball is hit by a golfer,
there are a large number of factors which control the resultant
motion of the golf ball. Some of these, over which the golfer has
control, are the velocity and direction which is imparted onto the
golf ball by the club. In putting, these factors are particularly
acute.
[0006] Training devices for golf swing and putting attempt to
provide a golfer with the ability to practice motions they will use
in a game repeatedly under controlled conditions (generally with
immediate feedback on their performance). Many also try to
encourage the player to use particular methods which have been
previously found to be more successful (e.g. in golf the grip on
the club and the placement of the feet). Some of these devices
limit the swing of the player who is practicing to the "correct"
swing by forcing the player's swing to occur in a dimensionally
limited space. These devices have some major drawbacks, however.
For instance, a player may become reliant on the resistance or
force provided by the device to complete the correct swing and when
the device is not present the player losses much of the benefit
they may have obtained from the use of the device. These devices
may also be too cumbersome and bulky to be used on a golf course
limiting the player's ability to use them under conditions most
similar to play. Finally, such devices are generally frowned upon
by a player's competitors during actual play meaning that the
player is forced to attempt to transition knowledge from the
controlled training environment to the new environment of
competition.
[0007] Other types of devices analyze golf swings through the use
of specially designed motion sensing apparatuses. These devices are
generally external to the club for measuring the club's motion in
simulated swings. These devices also have certain disadvantages.
External systems are often limited by their processing speed. Many,
which use video, are limited by the frame rate of the recorder and
are unable to record precise motion of the club at the point of
impact because of the club's speed. Further, these type of systems
are usually limited in measurement dimensions because detectors
have to avoid being hit by the club during the swing. Finally,
these systems are not easily transportable and often require
specific setup making them impractical or impossible to use on the
golf course.
[0008] A further problem with training devices is that they can
only measure swings and motion and tell a player whether he is
within parameters of a mathematically "good" swing. These
parameters may be set from calculation, theory, or possibility of
success but cannot be determined from actual competitive play to
take into account factors which master golfers take into account,
or compensate for, unconsciously. In sports, there are many
champions and many of the champions have their own unique nuances
to their style of play. These champions may have facets of their
play that one would like to be able to achieve beyond the
perfection of the basic skills of ball control. None of the above
systems enable a user to compare their play with another particular
golfer playing at a particular time (e.g., to compare their putting
with the 20 foot putt that previously won a Masters Tournament). To
measure the player during actual play, it is necessary to use
unobtrusive methods that do not interfere with the play of the game
and most practice devices do not allow such use.
[0009] In a training device, it may also be desirable to not train
a golfer in controlling their body motion as is currently done, but
to simply train the golfer to obtain a motion in a particular part
of the club by whatever means necessary. Currently, training
devices try to coordinate the body motion of a golfer, which can be
very difficult as golfers come in many shapes and sizes. Many
existing systems have this limitation because since there may not
be data available about the motion of the actual club. At the same
time, while it may be impossible for a 6'6" tall golfer to
identically copy the full motion of a 5'2" tall golfer, with a
completely different motion, he may be able to exactly copy the
motion of a club head used by that golfer with a completely
different motion.
[0010] The systems discussed above illustrate the shortfalls of
existing sport trainers.
SUMMARY
[0011] For all these reasons and previously unidentified problems
in the art, it is desirable to have systems for analyzing the
motion of a sporting equipment (i.e., a sport training system)
where the system can be incorporated into the sporting equipment
(e.g., golf club, golf attire, baseball bat, hockey stick,
football, tennis racquet etc.) or other in such a way that the
equipment can be used for both practice and competitive situations,
and thus can be used on an actual is playing surface under actual
playing conditions.
[0012] It is further desirable to have a sport training system that
can enable measuring, recording and analyzing a the motion of a
sporting equipment during actual competitive play and one can also
use that analyzed the motion of the equipment to help train another
player to replicate a desirable motion. In golf for example, the
recording of the golf swing motion can be used to analyze and
compare the motion of the club of successful puts (or drives) and
compare these to club motions of bad puts (or drives). Golf club
motions (i.e., swing, stroke) can also be analyzed over a period of
time to identify what features of a player's stroke might have
changed.
[0013] The present disclosure is directed to systems for measuring
motion of a sporting equipment, the system comprising a motion
sensing system in communications with the sporting equipment to
measure motion parameters, the motion sensing system having at
least one accelerometer or at least one gyroscope. In different
embodiments, the sporting equipment can be a golf club, a baseball
bat, a hockey stick, a football or a tennis racquet and the like.
In some embodiments, the motion sensing system can be located on
the sporting equipment, or alternatively, within the sporting
equipment.
[0014] In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, the
accelerometers and gyroscopes can be micromachine devices.
[0015] In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure,
the systems may further include a command station having a data
acquisition system to process the measured motion parameters and
produce data and, optionally, a display monitor. In some
embodiments, the data acquisition system may processes the measured
motion parameters and produce data representative of an impact
location of the sporting equipment, the a velocity of the sporting
equipment, or an angular orientation of the sporting equipment.
[0016] In accordance with a further aspect of the present
disclosure, the motion sensing system can include memory for
storing the measured motion parameters. In some embodiments, the
memory may be detachable from the sporting equipment.
[0017] In accordance with yet a further aspect of the present
disclosure, the systems described herein can include a transmitter
to transmit the measured motion parameters to a command station. In
some embodiments, the transmitter may be a wireless communications
transmitter such as a radio-frequency transmitter or an
Infrared-frequency transmitter, for example. Additionally, in some
embodiments, the wireless communications transmitter can be capable
of transmitting the measured motion parameters in accordance with
the Bluetooth or IEEE 804.12. wireless communication protocols.
[0018] In accordance with an additional aspect of the present
disclosure, the data acquisition system can include a data error
correction module to compensate for an error rate of the motion
sensing system.
[0019] The present disclosure is also directed to a golf club
comprising a club head, a shaft and a motion sensing system to
measure motion parameters of the golf club during a golf swing, the
motion sensing system having at least one accelerometer or
gyroscope. In some embodiments, the motion sensing system can be
located on the golf club, or alternatively, within the golf
club.
[0020] The present disclosure is also further directed to methods
of analyzing a golf swing, where the methods include having a
motion sensing system in communications with a golf club to measure
golf swing motion parameters, wherein the motion sensing system has
at least one accelerometer or gyroscope, and processing the
measured motion parameters to produce data. In some embodiments,
the methods may also include displaying the produced data on a
display monitor.
[0021] In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, the
produced data can be representative of an impact location of a golf
ball on a club face of the golf club.
[0022] In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure,
the produced data can be representative of a velocity of a club
head of the golf club.
[0023] In accordance with a further aspect of the present
disclosure, the produced data can be representative of an angular
orientation of a club face of the golf club. In some embodiments,
the data acquisition system can provide an angular orientation of
the club face when the club face impacts a golf ball. In other
embodiments, the data acquisition system can provide a reference
angular orientation of the club face at an initiation of the golf
swing.
[0024] Further features and advantages of the present disclosure
will become apparent from the following descriptions of the
detailed embodiments and from the claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0025] FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a golf putter with an external
motion sensing system;
[0026] FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of a block format layout of a
motion sensing system and command station;
[0027] FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of a golf club and a command
station;
[0028] FIG. 4 shows another embodiment of a golf club and a command
station;
[0029] FIG. 5 shows another embodiment of a block format layout of
a motion sensing system and command station; and
[0030] FIG. 6 shows a display for displaying the data of the
command station.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)
[0031] While the following embodiments and descriptions are
generally discussed regarding systems and methods for measuring the
motion of a golf club during a golf swing, persons skilled in the
art will appreciate how the systems and methods discussed herein
can be applied to other pieces of sporting equipment such as
baseball bats, a hockey sticks, footballs, tennis racquets, and the
like.
[0032] The term "actual conditions" relates to play on a golf
course or similar environment. For instance, it could be useful to
use the systems and methods discussed herein on a driving range as
the driving range itself is designed to simulate the actual
conditions of golf play (e.g. a golf ball is hit off a tee with a
club that would be used in regular play). Therefore one should
think of actual conditions being those where equipment that would
be used competitively by a golfer would normally be used, whether
the play is as part of a game or only "practice." Further, actual
conditions would not require the golfer to go through a special
series of steps which could detract from the play of a golf game
(e.g., the golfer would not need to set up a series of sensors
around a ball before taking a shot). In an embodiment, the systems
and methods described herein are designed so that a user can play
golf on a course with their equipment and can have information
about their swing and their play relayed to a command station for
use anytime during or after the game. In addition, in an
embodiment, the golf club appears similarly to those that do not
determine the motion of the golf swings; furthermore, in some
embodiments, the golf club can be used in professional, regulation
play.
[0033] It would be understood by one of skill in the art, however,
that the principles and devices discussed herein could be
incorporated without undue experimentation into a wide variety of
sporting equipment.
[0034] As a golfer, it is desirable to know when one is hitting a
ball in a manner different than is intended. In particular, if
there is a systematic problem (i.e. the ball is always hit toward
the toe end of the face) a golf instructor, or the player, may be
able to understand and correct an aspect of play to correct for the
problem. For instance, the golfer may move his feet back or play
with a longer putter to eliminate the problem and therefore improve
their game. Provided below are embodiments of a golf club
containing a motion sensing system allowing a golfer to receive
feedback regarding the motion of a golf club. These embodiments can
then be used to provide indications of problems in a golfer's play
which the golfer can attempt to correct by increased practice,
altered movement, different equipment, or other things.
[0035] There are several factors relevant to a golf swing which can
affect how well a golf ball will travel. One factor has to do with
where on the club face the ball is hit. It is generally desirable
for the golfer to hit the ball as close to the centerline of the
club face as possible because, when hit at this point, the club
face generally will not experience any angular rotation upon
impacting with the ball. Thus, if the angular rotation of the club
face can be minimized at the point of impact, the ball should
travel in a straighter line. In contrast, when a golfer strikes the
golf ball near the toe or the heel (defined below) of the club
face, the club face will slightly rotate when the mass of the ball
comes into contact with the club face. This interaction (i.e., the
rotation) can not be controlled by the golfer and can lead to the
ball traveling in a direction which was not intended by the golfer.
In certain embodiments of the systems and methods described herein,
therefore, it is desirable to be able to determine where on the
club face the ball is hit so that the golfer can adjust their play
style (or equipment) as needed, e.g., move the hitting point closer
to the centerline.
[0036] A second factor that can affect the travel of the golf ball
is the amount of force that is imparted onto the ball by the golf
club. The force of the golf club impacting the ball is dependent
upon the velocity of the golf club (i.e., the club face) as it hits
the ball and the weight and balance of the golf club. The motion of
the golf club and in particular, the motion of the club face,
greatly determines how far the ball will travel. For example, too
little force can cause the ball to fall short and teetering on the
edge of the cup, while two much force can cause the ball to
overshoot the cup. In certain embodiments of the systems and
methods described herein, therefore, it is desirable to be able to
measure the velocity of the golf club as it travels through a
swing, and it is particularly desirable to be able to determine the
velocity of the club face at the time of impact.
[0037] Yet another factor that can affect the travel of the golf
ball is the plane of the club face as it strikes the golf ball. If
the golfers swing is not straight, the club face may strike the
ball at an angle (relative to the ball and/or playing surface)
which can cause a force to be applied to the ball in an unintended
direction. This can result in the ball deviating from its desired
course or to have an undesired spin. In certain embodiments of the
systems and methods described herein, therefore, it is desirable to
be able to determine the angular orientation of the club face.
[0038] FIG. 1 depicts a golf club 10 that can be used in analyzing
a golf swing. While the golf club 10 depicted in FIG. 1 is a
putter-type golf club (i.e., a putter), the disclosure herein is
equally applicable to any type golf club, e.g., driver, sand
wedges, irons, etc. Golf club 10 has a putter golf head 113, a
shaft 115 and a handle (not shown). The golf head 113 has a club
face 101 and a centerline 107. The ends of the club face 101 are
referred to as the heel 103 and the toe 105, where the heel 103 is
the end of the club face 101 closest to the golfer and the toes 105
is the end furthest from the golfer. The centerline 107 is on the
top of the golf head 113 and indicates the location of the center
of gravity along the y-axis (cg.sub.y) of the golf club 10. If the
club face 101 impacts a golf ball (not shown) at a point
corresponding to the centerline 107 (i.e., at the cg.sub.y), then
the club face 101 generally should not experience an angular moment
about the z-axis (i.e., the club face 101 should not rotate at
impact). An unexpected rotation of the club face 101 can cause the
golf ball to travel in a direction (or in a way) which may not have
been intended. Thus, centerline 107 assists the golfer in
identifying where on the club face 101 the golfer may desire to hit
the ball. Reference lines 109 and 111 are present on the top of the
golf head 113 to further assist the golfer in identifying where on
the club face 101 the golfer may desire to hit the ball.
[0039] When the golfer makes a putt with the golf club 10, the club
head 113 may be swung so that the club head 113 moves in a gentle
arc which is tangential to plane of play 117 (i.e., the x-y plane
of the ground) and approximately parallel to the line of the
centerline 107. A golfer's exact skill would determine the exact
nature of the motion, as would the golfer's intended hitting power,
placement of the ball and other factors. The golf ball, when struck
by the club face 101, should travel away from the club face 101 in
a path generally perpendicular to the club face 101 if the ball is
hit properly and unaffected by any external influences.
[0040] FIG. 1 further depicts the golf club 10 having a motion
sensing system 119 in communications with the club head 113 to
measure a motion parameter of a golf swing. Golf swing motion
parameters can be any suitable metrics that can be used to define
the physical attributes of a golf swing. Thus, golf swing motion
parameters may include the club head 113 linear and angular
accelerations in and about the x, y, and z axes, for example. FIG.
1 depicts the motion sensing system 119 being attached to a portion
of the top of (i.e., "on") the club head 113 (and behind the club
face 101).
[0041] As stated, the motion sensing system 119 can detect, i.e.,
measure, motion parameters of a golf swing. In the embodiment shown
in FIG. 1, the motion sensing system 119 is mounted on the club
head 113 since the club head's 113 motion directly effects the
motion of the ball after the club head 113 strikes the ball. In
other embodiments, the motion sensing system 119 may be located
within (i.e., internal) the club head 113. In some of these
embodiments, the club head 113 may have an outward appearance which
is identical to a club head which does not contain a motion sensing
system 119. In yet other embodiments, the motion sensing system 119
may be located on the shaft 115, or alternatively, within the shaft
115.
[0042] In some embodiments, the motion sensing system 119 be
designed so as to be removable and replaceable from the golf club
10. In this way, the motion sensing system 119 can be a modular
add-on device which can be installed on a conventional golf club so
as to analyze a golf swing using that golf club and then the motion
sensing system 119 can be removed and reinstalled on a different
golf club.
[0043] In other embodiments, the motion of a different part of the
golf club 10, or even a different part of the golf equipment (such
as the ball) may wish to be analyzed and thus the motion sensing
system 119 may be attached in proximity to this different location.
In a yet further embodiment, a motion of a particular part of the
golfer's body may be desired and the motion sensing system 119
could therefore be placed in proximity to that portion of the
golfer's body.
[0044] Depending upon which motion parameters one wishes to
measure, the motion sensing system 119 can include an
accelerometer, a gyroscope, and/or combinations of accelerometers
and gyroscopes. To measure a linear acceleration along a single
axis (relative to the golf club 10 or club head 113), for example
the x-axis, a single accelerometer properly oriented to that axis
could suffice. To measure linear accelerations in additional axes,
additional accelerometers may be required. Similarly, to measure an
angular acceleration about a single axis (e.g., the z-axis), a
properly oriented single gyroscope could suffice; additional
gyroscopes may be required to measure angular accelerations in
other axes.
[0045] In some embodiments, the accelerometer(s) and/or
gyroscope(s) may be fabricated micromachines, or an array of
fabricated micromachines. A micromachine, as that term is used
herein, may be a polisilicon structure built on a silicon wafer or
any other structure that would qualify as a micromachine. Persons
skilled in the art will appreciate the wide variety of micromachine
accelerometers and gyroscopes that are suitable and readily
available. For example, the accelerometers and gyroscopes disclosed
in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,167,757 and 6,067,858, respectively, the entire
contents of which are herein incorporated by reference. In
addition, micromachines, as described herein, may be micro
electro-mechanical sensors (MEMS). These include devices
manufactured by Analog Devices Inc. among others. These
micromachines may produce analog, digital, or any other form of
output.
[0046] In other embodiments, micromachines need not be used, and
instead other sensors (e.g., accelerometers and gyroscopes) such
as, but not limited to, automotive-grade accelerometers and
gyroscopes, fiber optic gyroscopes, vibrating quartz gyroscopes, or
similar devices which will be readily understood by those persons
skilled in the art may be used.
[0047] FIG. 2 illustrates in block format one embodiment of a
system 20 for analyzing the motion of a sporting equipment. System
20 includes a motion sensing system 119 and a command station 209.
The motion sensing system 119 of FIG. 2 has a gyroscope 203 and an
accelerometer 205. The motion sensing system 119 is in
communications with, e.g., is coupled to, a piece of sporting
equipment (not shown in this figure). The command station 209,
which is generally external to the piece of sporting equipment,
includes a data acquisition system 211 and a personal computer 213
having a display monitor 215. The gyroscope 203 and accelerometer
205 of the motion sensing system 119 are in communications with the
data acquisition system 211 of the command station 209. The
gyroscope 203 and accelerometer 205 detect (i.e., measure) an
angular acceleration and a linear acceleration, respectively,
exerted on a piece of sporting equipment. The measured motion
parameters (e.g., the acceleration data) can be transmitted to the
data acquisition system 211 of the command station 209 via
appropriate physical wire paths (e.g., wires or cables) or wireless
paths, as further discussed below. The data acquisition system 211
can be capable of processing the measured motion parameters from
the motion sensing system 119 to produce data indicative of the
golf swing. The data can take many different kinds of form, all
indicative of motion, including, for example, a two-dimensional or
three-dimensional representation of the golf swing, the velocity of
the club head as a function of time, the velocity of the golf head
at a point of impact, the angular orientation of the club head as a
function of time, etc. Suitable data acquisition system's 211
include commercially available 12 channel PCMCIA data acquisition
cards (where the measured motion parameters from each sensor is
"channelized"), amongst others. Persons skilled in the art will
appreciate the wide variety of data acquisition systems which may
be used. The command station 209 which may be, but is not limited
to, a computer or other processing device, may then process the
data produced by the data acquisition system 211 to provide a
textual and/or graphical display of the produced data via the
display monitor 215.
[0048] In some embodiments, the command station 209 may further
include a data error correction module (not shown) to compensate
for the error rates (e.g., calibration and in-run drift error
rates) which may be inherent in the accelerometers 205 and/or
gyroscopes 203 used in the system 20. The use of a data error
correction module therefore may allow the command station 209 to
produce more accurate data. The data error correction module, which
could be a hardware or a software embodiment, can operate based
upon some general assumptions regarding a typical golf swing (e.g.,
a drive or a put, etc.) like, for example, the typical time
duration of a put. If for example, a typical put has a duration of
1.5 seconds and the gyroscopes 203 used have a drift rate of
4.degree./sec, then the data error correction module could properly
compensate for the gyroscopes 203's statistical drift error that
would be expected over this golf swing duration. In addition to a
golf swing duration metric, the data error correction module could
also provided correction feedback to the command station 209 based
upon assumptions regarding the nature of a typical golf swing
(e.g., the path that is typically carved out) and/or the typical
position of the start of a golf swing. The data error correction
module can be a component of the data acquisition system 211, the
computer 213 or be separate stand-alone component within the
command station 209. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate how
the data error correction module can be used in conjunction with
the measured motion parameters so as to produce more accurate data.
Also, the use of a data error correction module may permit the use
of less expensive (e.g., automotive grade) accelerometers 205 and
gyroscopes 203 that typically have higher error rates than the more
expensive models.
[0049] In some embodiments, the measurement of the motion
parameters can be performed through the use of sensors which are
small enough to be used in proximity to certain key points of
sporting equipment, such as the club head, without undue (or in one
embodiment any) performance degradation. In addition, devices are
desirable that can survive the rigors of the club impacting the
ball. Such sporting equipment may then be used by both the
professional and the amateur in any way that would regularly use
golf equipment that does not include sensors or a motion sensing
system. Therefore the golfer could use this club as their regular
club and the equipment could be used under actual conditions. This
would also allow a golfer to play golf in their normal game setting
and yet be able to obtain training information from their game. In
an embodiment, the equipment could replace both the players
training devices and their play devices, allowing training to occur
at all times, including during competitive play.
[0050] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of a system 20 for
analyzing the motion of a sporting equipment, and in particular, as
shown in FIG. 3, a golf club 10 having a club head 313, a shaft
307, a handle 309 and a motion sensing system 319. FIG. 1
illustrated one manner of locating the motion sensing system 119 on
the club head 113 of the golf club 10--a motion sensing system 119
attached externally and unobtrusively to the golf club 10 in a
manner that does not interfere with the golf club's 10 playability.
FIG. 3 shows another embodiment of a golf club 10 having a motion
sensing system 319 to measure motion parameters of the golf club 10
during a golf swing. The motion sensing system 319 has at least one
gyroscope 303 and at least one accelerometer 305 forming a
micromachine array that can be located within the club head 313.
The club 10 can appear externally similar to a conventional golf
club and can be used to strike golf balls in practice or
competitive play. In particular, the gyroscope 303 and
accelerometer 305 sensors may be located within the club head 313
so as to not be externally visible. In alternative embodiments, the
golf club 10 can be any golf club that has been altered after
manufacture to contain the systems discussed herein.
[0051] In FIG. 3 the micromachine array may be comprised of three
independent "packages" of micromachines. Each of these packages can
be a ceramic dual inline package as is known to the art. In such a
package there is included two accelerometers and two gyroscopes.
The gyroscopes and accelerometers are placed in two-dimensions
(e.g., relative to the club head 313) so that the package's motion
(both in terms of displacement and acceleration) can be measured in
two dimensions. Ideally, each package is small enough to be placed
inconspicuously inside the golf club 10 or golf club head 313. Such
packages may be around 0.39".times.0.42".times.0.22", for example.
A package having these dimensions is available commercially from
Analog Devices, Inc. The packages may be smaller however. For
instance another package with similar micromachine components is
also available from Analog Devices which is only
0.2".times.0.2".times.0.1". A wide variety of suitable packages may
be used.
[0052] The measured motion parameters of the motion sensing system
319 can be provided to a command station 209 having a data
acquisition system 211 which can process the measured motion
parameters to produce data which is representative of the motion of
a golf swing. The command station 209 may be located with the golf
club 10 (e.g., installed on the golf club 10) or may be remotely
located at a distance from the golf club 10. The measured motion
parameters of the motion sensing system 319 may be analog or
digital signals; the analog or digital signals can be changed from
either format to the other, or a different format, at any time via
analog to digital (A/D) or digital to analog (D/A) converters, as
is know to those of skill in the art. In the embodiment illustrated
in FIG. 3, the measured motion parameters of the motion sensing
system 319 can be transmitted via wires as shown to the external
data acquisition system 211 of the command station 209.
[0053] The use of accelerometers and gyroscope have certain
particular advantages. In action, each of the gyroscopes can be
used to measure the change of direction or angle of the club head,
while the accelerometers can measure changes in the speed of the
club head. A total of three packages (as described above) may be
arranged so as to provide two measurements in each of the three
orthogonal dimensions relative to the club head 313 (i.e., the x,
y, and z axes of the club head 313). The use of three packages can
allow the motions in each dimension to be double-checked, since
there are two readings in each dimension, and/or can allow for
displacement between the packages to show certain types of motion.
For instance, placing one package at the heel 103 and one at the
toe 105 (of FIG. 1, for example) of the golf club 10 may permit the
detection of rotation of the club head 113 about a point between
these two sensor arrays. This may be useful to insure accurate data
for the motion of the club head. One of skill in the art, however,
would see that any number of packages or any combination of sensors
including any number of gyroscopes and or accelerometers can be
used depending on the type of information required and the level of
measurement redundancy desired.
[0054] For example, accelerometers 305 of the motion sensing system
319 can be used to measure the linear acceleration(s) exerted upon
the club head 313 during a golf swing. The linear acceleration can
be measured in either one, two or three dimensions relative to the
club head 313--depending upon the number and type of accelerometers
305 used and the orientation of the accelerometers 305. The data
acquisition system 211 of the command station 209 can then process
these measured linear acceleration motion parameters to produce
data which is representative of the velocity of the club head 313
(in either one, two or three dimensions), and/or produce data which
is representative of the distances traveled by the club head 313
(again, in either one, two or three dimensions).
[0055] Gyroscopes 303 of the motion sensing system 319 can be used
to measure the angular acceleration(s) of the club face 301 both
before, during, and after impact with a ball. The angular
acceleration can be measured in either one, two or three
dimensions--depending upon the number and type of gyroscopes 303
used and the orientation of the gyroscopes 303. The data
acquisition system 211 of the command station 209 can then process
this measured angular acceleration motion parameters to produce
data which is representative of the angular orientation of the club
face 301 both before, during, and after impact with a ball.
[0056] In some embodiments, the angular orientation of the club
face 301 at the point of impact may be determined relative the what
the angular orientation of the club face 301 was upon the
initiation of the golf swing. This can be advantageous since the
orientation of the club face 301 at the initiation of the golf
swing is the orientation of the club face 301 at which the golf
intends to impact the ball. In such embodiments, the initiation of
the golf swing may be determined by measuring and detecting some
threshold amount of motion, such as an acceleration via
accelerometers 305, which may be indicative of an initiation of a
golf swing. Alternatively, the initiation of the golf swing may
also be established by determining the time and spatial relation at
the point of impact and then extrapolating the measured motion
parameters backwards in time (and space) to determine the
initiation of the swing (and the angular orientation of the club
face 301 at this point). In yet other embodiments, the initiation
of the golf swing may be determined by measuring and detecting some
threshold period of motion inactivity. Prior to initiating a golf
swing, many if not most golfers will place the club face 301
immediately adjacent to the golf ball and pause for some period as
they prepare for their golf swing. This period of inactivity, which
can be measured by an accelerometer 305, for example, thus may be
indicative of the period immediately preceding the initiation of
the golf swing and thus the initiation of the golf swing may be
determined in this way.
[0057] By utilizing a motion sensing system 319 which has, at a
minimum, a gyroscope 303 that can measure the angular acceleration
about the z-axis of the club head 313 and an accelerometer 305 that
can measure the linear acceleration in the club head's 313 x-axis,
the impact location (of the golf ball) along the club face 301's
y-axis can be determined. An impact with a ball at a point away
from the centerline 107 of the club face 101 will induce an angular
acceleration about the z-axis of the club head 113 (since the point
of impact occurs some .DELTA.y distance away from the cg.sub.y).
From the x-axis linear acceleration motion parameters, the data
acquisition system 211 of the command station 209 can be capable of
determining the force at which the club head 313 impacts a golf
ball because the mass of the club head 313 and golf club 10 are
known and fixed. Thus, by measuring the above identified linear
acceleration and angular acceleration the y-axis location on the
club face 301 of the impact can be determined by the data
acquisition system 211 of the command station 209. Furthermore, in
a similar fashion, by utilizing an additional gyroscope 303 that
can measure the angular acceleration about the y-axis of the club
head 313, the impact location (of the golf ball) along the club
face 301's z-axis can be determined.
[0058] In an embodiment, the system could also contain fewer
sensors for potentially less cost and potentially less impact on
the engineering of the club or additional sensors, or alternative
sensors including, but not limited to, additional gyroscopes,
additional accelerometers, or devices, such as, but not limited to,
force meters, temperature gauges, microcompasses, other sensors or
other micromachined devices, such as motors, gears, batteries, or
any other type of device that may be desired.
[0059] FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a system 30 for
analyzing the motion of a sporting equipment, and in particular, as
shown in FIG. 4, a golf club 10 having a club head 413, a shaft
407, a handle 409 and a motion sensing system 419. The motion
sensing system can include a wide variety of gyroscopes 403 and/or
accelerometers 405. FIG. 4 shows an alternative arrangement of the
circuitry of a club 10 having a motion sensing system 419 contained
within the club head 413. In some embodiments, the golf club 10 of
FIG. 4 may designed to appear externally as a standard golf club.
In another embodiment, the golf club 10 can be virtually
indistinguishable externally from a standard (i.e., conventional
regulation play) golf club which does not contain a motion sensing
system. In further embodiments, the motion sensing system may be
retrofitted to an existing golf club, by a third party
manufacturer. Alternatively, a golf club 10 may be engineered to
contain the motion sensing system 419 which may be included as part
of the club 10's original manufacturing process. In some
embodiments, all components are contained within the golf club 10,
while in other embodiments, some or all of the components may be
external to the club 10 or may be visible on the club 10.
[0060] The system 30 of FIG. 4 further includes a power supply 451,
a transmitter 457, a switch 453 and a command station 209. The
power supply 451 may be any conventional power supply known in the
art. The power supply 451 is preferably a DC source such as a
chemical battery which can be placed within the handle 409 of the
club 10. The power supply, thus, may be a long life battery that
will not need to be replaced over the expected life of the club 10,
or, so as to allow battery replacement (or component repair or
replacement). In yet another embodiment, the power supply 451 can
be a rechargeable battery that may be recharged through any manner
known to one of skill in the art. In one embodiment, the recharging
can be accomplished through a connector (not shown) connect to the
power supply 451. The connector may be an induction plate or
cylinder or similar device that can then be connected to a similar
connector attached to a charger contained in a golf bag. Such a
system could allow a set of golf clubs to be charged while they
were not in use but were carried around in the bag.
[0061] A switch 453 can be provided in some embodiments so that the
system 10 has at least two states: a dormant state, where the
measuring of motion parameters is not desired; and an active state,
where the measuring of motion parameters is desired. The
utilization of active and dormant states can be desirable since
much of the motion of the club 10 may be extraneous and not of
interest to the golfer, for example, when the golfer is walking to
a tee. The active state may be triggered, e.g., by depressing the
switch 453, when a player desires to analyze the motion of a golf
swing. The switch 453 is not required in all embodiments, however,
the use of switch 453 could result in lower energy consumption.
Switch 453 can be any type of switch and can be activated by any
means known to the art. In one embodiment the switch can be a
microswitch built into the handle 409 (as shown) which may be
depressed by the player. Alternatively, the switch 453 could
comprises hardware and/or software which operates in conjunction
with the data acquisition system, 211 and/or the command station
209 to analyze the measured motion parameters so as to detect a
"signature" motion that may indicative of a golf swing or an impact
with a golf ball. Upon identifying such a signature, the command
station 209 may then process a subset of the measured motion
parameters established for some period bracketing the signature
motion, e.g., for a short period of time before and after contact
with the ball. The system 10 may constantly measure the motion
parameters and place the measured motion parameters in a memory
455, wherein the measured motion parameters is cycled through the
memory 455 (for instance a first-in-first-out (FIFO) memory). Upon
detecting the particular motion, i.e., the signature, the command
station 209 may then access the measured motion parameters on the
memory 455 for a particular period of time, e.g., some period prior
to the recorded impact and a period after the recorded impact. In
other embodiments, the memory 455 can be utilized independently of
the switch 453. For example, the memory 455 could be used to store
the measured motion parameters; the command station 209 could then
process the measured motion parameters at some later time or date.
Furthermore, in some embodiments, the memory 455 may be detachable,
e.g., removable and replaceable.
[0062] In another embodiment the switch 453 can have more than two
modes, for instance the switch 455 could have an off mode
indicating the club 10 is in storage, a sleep mode indicating the
club 10 is moving but not currently being swung, a practice mode
indicating that the golfer is swinging the club 10 but there is no
ball to engage, and a play mode where the golfer is swinging the
club 10 for the purpose of propelling a ball. Such a multiplicity
of modes would enable the golfer to take a few practice swings and
make sure they have the desired motion of the club 10 before they
actually take the motion and engage the ball with that particular
motion. It could also allow for preservation of battery life.
[0063] In other embodiments, the switch 453 can consists of sensors
and/or micromachines. For example, the switch 453 could contain a
pressure transducer sensor capable of detecting some threshold
amount of pressure which may be indicative of someone gripping the
handle 409--once the threshold pressure is established, the switch
could activate the system 30's active state. Alternatively, the
switch 453 could contain an accelerometer sensor capable of
detecting some threshold amount of acceleration which may be
indicative of a golf swing--once the threshold acceleration is
established, the switch could activate the system 30's active
state. The switch could also be any other type of switch to
indicate when the measure motion parameters of the motion sensing
system 419 is relevant and should be provided to the command
station 209.
[0064] The transmitter 457 can be used to transmit the measured
motion parameters to a receiver 217 of the command station 219.
Since, in one embodiment, circuitry is enclosed within the golf
club 10's handle 409 which is limited in space, it maybe desirable
for the command station to be external to the golf club 10,
although in some embodiments, the command station 209 can be
coupled to (e.g., attach to or contained within) the golf club 10.
In some embodiments, the transmitter 457 can be a wireless
communications transmitter capable of transmitting the measured
motion parameters to the command station 219 via a wide variety of
methods known to the art, including radio frequency (RF), Infrared
(IR), microwave, Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11a or any other method or
protocol for wireless transmission known now or later discovered.
It is not necessary to have a transmitter 457; the measured motion
parameters may be extracted from the motion sensing system 419 or
memory 455 in any manner known to the art. These include, but not
limited to, the club 10 having removable memory 455 and the
contents placed on an external system when needed; the club 10
containing a data jack (not shown) or other connector (not shown)
which could be hooked directly to an external system allowing
download of the contents of the memory; the club 10 connected to
the command station 209 via wireline systems as discussed in
relation to FIG. 2; or any combination of methods known now or
later discussed.
[0065] Wireline 475 may be used to connect the components at
various locations within the club 10. However, wireline 475 is not
necessary and wireless methods or sold state methods could also be
used to communicate between the components.
[0066] FIG. 5 shows a block diagram of one embodiment of the
electronics that could be used in a system such as the one depicted
in FIG. 4. Included are a motion sensing system 519 having an
accelerometer 505 and gyroscopes 503 and a command station 209. The
accelerometer 505 and gyroscopes 503 of the motion sensing system
519 are in channelized communications with the data acquisition
system 211 of the command station 209. The data acquisition system
211 can include a clock 555 for synchronization of the channelized
motion parameters measured by the accelerometer 505 and gyroscopes
503. Electrically programmable read-only-memory (EPROM) 561 for
storing software algorithms appropriate for the processing of the
measured motion parameters may also be present as well as a Random
Access Memory 559 for temporarily storing the measured motion
parameters and/or the produced data.
[0067] The command station 209 may also include a display monitor
215 or similar device that can be used to interpret and display the
data acquisition system 211 produced data. In an embodiment, the
display monitor 215 can comprises software and/or hardware for use
with a portable computing device such as a personal digital
assistant (PDA), a laptop computer, or a portable telephone. In
another embodiment the display monitor 215 could be a fixed device
such as a desktop computer or a computer permanently mounted at a
golf course, for instance in a kiosk or in the golf cart.
[0068] The display monitor 215 of the command station 209 may be
generally designed to display the produced data of the data
acquisition system 211 in a format that may be useful for a player
or other person interested in the golf swing. FIG. 6 provides one
embodiment of such a display. FIG. 6 shows a display 601 from a
display monitor 215 utilizing a version of the Windows.TM.
operating system. The display 601 displays produced data in textual
and graphical formats. In particular there is a club head position
section 641 which can provide a numerical head position 611
indicating the point on the club face where the ball was struck.
The impact location data is also shown graphically in graphical
display 621. From examining the graphical display 621, for example,
one can visually see that the golfer struck the ball slightly too
close to the toe of the club (i.e., display 621 indicates a
negative y-axis measurement).
[0069] Display 601 also shows Peak information 631 which provides
information as to the force that was used to hit the ball. This
produced data can be useful in determining how hard the ball should
have been hit to make the put or to make the drive.
[0070] Also included in display 601 is information related to the
angular orientation of the club face (e.g., 101) at the time of
impact with the ball. This is shown graphically by the rotation
diagram 613 and numerically by the values included at calculations
623. In this example, the club face impacted the ball at about 4
degrees difference from where the club was lined up prior to the
start of the stroke. This may have caused an undesired motion to be
imparted on the ball.
[0071] The display 601 further includes a readout 605 showing the
measured motion parameters of the accelerometers and gyroscope for
a period of time around the club's impact with the ball. It can be
seen in readout 605 that the club had some slight tremors in its
path which could lead to the slight mis-impact shown by the other
figures. There is also a legend 615 to aid in the interpretation of
the readout 605.
[0072] Also included in display 601 are buttons 607 which can
enable the user to set start and stop times for the measurement of
the motion by the club (e.g. to turn off a sleep mode). There is
also a button to exit the program when the game or session is
complete. Also, there are fill-in areas 609 which can enable the
user to store data based on a particular game for later reference,
or with which to retrieve data from memory if the player, or
another party, would like to examine the particular swings at a
later time using the command station 209. Finally, there is shown a
control statistics section 610 where various motion parameters
regarding the operation of the sensors are displayed. Such a
section could be useful for diagnostics on the sensors, or for
setting the sensors to insure they read accurately for the play of
a particular golfer.
[0073] The display 601 of FIG. 6 is merely one example of the types
of information that could be presented. In one embodiment, the
command station 209 can allow a golfer to examine the produced
data, replay or simulate a portion of the movement (e.g., golf
swing), to compare the movement to another movement, or to even
predict the result of the motion (for instance the distance and
direction that the ball is expected to travel). This can also be
combined with information from sensors external to the motion
sensing system, for instance weather sensors, GPS systems, or
terrain maps to determine additional factors related to the shot,
or to do anything else that could be useful to the golfer to
determine how the particular motion they made may have effected the
resulting performance. Further, although FIG. 6 illustrates a
visual display, audio or other sensory output could be provided
instead of, or in addition to, visual output. The output could also
be used to provide feedback to the user during the swing, for
instance if the user had a habit of twisting the club face during
the swing, the club handle could tingle indicating that the club
face is being twisted and encouraging the player to try and
eliminate the behavior before actually following through with the
putt.
[0074] In another embodiment, the golfer's performance could be
compared against the performance of a professional or highly
skilled golfer performing a similar putt (or drive off a tee shot)
to show the differences in performance. The display 601 could also
include information showing the layout of the course or green, and
a map showing a mathematical calculation of the putt (or drive) as
made compared to a putt (or drive) which would have gone in the cup
(or was made by another golfer). In yet another embodiment, the
display 601 could provide a golfer with their performance over
time. For instance their performance over nine holes could be shown
simultaneously to attempt to point out recursive problems. The
display 601 could also provide suggestions about what might be
causing the problems and how the golfer may be able to improve
their game.
[0075] Although the system described in FIGS. 1-6 describes the
motion sensing system as being located in the head of the golf club
and the other components located in various other parts of the
club, it will be readily understood by one of skill in the art that
the sensors and components could be placed anywhere within the club
where the motion of that portion of the club is desired or space
allows. The motion of the club head is generally measured because
the club head actually impacts the golf ball and therefore provides
the motion to the ball, whose resultant location is what is
desired. Alternatively or additionally, sensors could be placed in
the shaft or handle of the golf club to enable a recordation of the
motion of those items so as to use their motion in comparing golf
swings. Such a measurement may be desirable to determine the result
on the swing of the flexibility of the club, for example.
[0076] The data provided from the motion sensing system could be
used as part of a training program in another embodiment of the
invention. In one such embodiment, a particularly fine athlete
could be provided with devices like those above and could
participate in one or more sporting events while all their motion
was recorded. Their success could then be analyzed and used to
train other athletes to perform in a similar manner. This could be
performed by providing the training athlete with a similar analysis
of motion, comparing the differences between the motions, and
developing a training routine, training materials, or specially
designed sporting goods to help the training athlete to better
conform their movement to the successful athlete's movement. Since
the motion of the club head is recorded, the training regime could
encourage the player to copy the club's motion, instead of the
skilled player's motion. This would then enable the player to adapt
a comfortable play style which emulates the skilled player's
results, but may be a completely different, and personalized,
style.
[0077] The produced data could also be used in the design of
sporting equipment. For instance, a designer could build a range of
sporting goods incorporating different principles and provide these
to an athlete. They can then compare success and failure of the
designs of the sporting goods, along with the motion of the
sporting goods to develop new sporting goods that promote the
ability of, at least some, athletes to perform better. Sporting
goods could also be manufactured with a higher degree of
customization for the athlete by analyzing the motion of an athlete
with a particular sporting good or goods and then selecting or
designing a sporting good that capitalizes on the unique abilities
of that athlete.
[0078] In a still further embodiment, the produced data could be
used to provide better simulations and predictions of motion. A
putting simulator could be provided which enables a golfer to swing
a club at a tethered ball that, based on the motion of the club
allows for a more realistic practice experience in a limited
environment. For instance, it would be possible to provide for a
simulated green (for instance via a video screen) with a club
including a motion sensing system and a tethered ball. A computer
could then analyze the hit at the moment of impact, compute the
course of the ball and show the ball move on the screen with a high
degree of accuracy.
[0079] Such systems could also predict the outcome of a particular
sporting action in real time. This could enable a commentator
and/or player to know at the instant a ball was hit that it was
going in the cup. This commentator ability could also allow a
golfer's motion can be analyzed as they are playing allowing a
spectator to know that one particular golfer is hitting their putts
or drives much cleaner or better than another golfer, or compared
to the way they usually play. The information could also be used by
coaches or trainers during a sporting event to determine if a
player is not performing in a normal manner and allow the coach to
determine if the player may be having an off day, and why the
player may be having an off day. The information could also be
provided via television, Internet or other networks to the public,
spectators, or other interested parties.
[0080] The devices can also be used in sports safety and in sports
medicine. Since the motion of an athlete may always be recorded, if
the athlete was to suffer an injury, for instance a back injury
during a golf swing, medical professionals could review the
recorded motion to determine the nature of the athletes injury from
the difference in the motion and what that could mean for
underlying body structure and what was injured. The system could
also be used to detect an athlete who may be injured but is playing
on by detecting subtle changes in the motion of their play. Such a
system could allow a coach or trainer to make a decision that the
athlete should discontinue play to avoid further injury, even if
the athlete thinks he is still fit to continue.
[0081] The systems and methods could also be used medically to
rehabilitate from injuries or surgery. With a recording of the
golfer's original motion the golfer can train after an injury to
duplicate that motion as their body heals, this could lead to
faster recovery of athletic ability and performance after injury or
surgery, even if the athlete is required to live is a restricted
environment (such as a hospital). Such a system could also be used
if the player takes a leave of absence from the sport for a period
of time. It could also be used if the player wished to alter a
specific facet of their play at a future time, for instance because
of a switch in sporting equipment manufacturers.
[0082] In yet a further embodiment, the recorded motion could be
used to build a machine to accurately simulate the motion that has
been recorded. In this way, robots or other machines could be built
which were particularly good at putting exactly like a particular
player. The machine could then be provided with clubs manufactured
to deal with the particular problem and designed to correct the
problem so the machine can test them. Therefore the system could
result in a player being provided with custom designed clubs that
will help them correct a problem with their game, or may even
correct it for them, that have been engineered based on exactly how
they swing.
[0083] The motion could also be used to create particularly good
visual representations of the motion allowing creators in the
visual arts, for instance special effects producers in the movies,
to simulate the golfing motion in an animated figure.
[0084] While the invention has been disclosed in connection with
the preferred embodiments shown and described in detail, various
modifications and improvements thereon will become readily apparent
to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the spirit and scope of
the present invention is to be determined by the following
claims.
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