U.S. patent application number 10/659331 was filed with the patent office on 2004-10-14 for system for and a method of manufacturing personal golf putters.
Invention is credited to Boscha, Bogie, Kelly, Martha A..
Application Number | 20040204257 10/659331 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34312698 |
Filed Date | 2004-10-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040204257 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Boscha, Bogie ; et
al. |
October 14, 2004 |
System for and a method of manufacturing personal golf putters
Abstract
For manufacturing a personal golf putter there are provided a
putting surface with at least one hole into which a golfer putts
balls, an initial putter with which the golfer hits the balls so as
to put the balls into the hole, sensors for sensing parameters of
the putter during hitting the balls by the golfer to putt the balls
into the hole, a data processor for processing data correspondingly
to the sensed parameters, a transmitter for transmitting data
corresponding to the sensed parameters, a computer for receiving,
determining final parameters of a personal putter based on the dat,
and making the personal putter with the parameters that are unique
to the golfer, with the sensors, processor and transmitter being
incorporated in the initial putter.
Inventors: |
Boscha, Bogie; (Metuchin,
NJ) ; Kelly, Martha A.; (Eaglesmere, PA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Ilya Zborovsky
6 Schoolhouse Way
Dix Hills
NY
11746
US
|
Family ID: |
34312698 |
Appl. No.: |
10/659331 |
Filed: |
September 11, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10659331 |
Sep 11, 2003 |
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09920529 |
Aug 1, 2001 |
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60473317 |
May 23, 2003 |
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60442548 |
Jan 27, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
473/131 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 24/0021 20130101;
A63B 71/0622 20130101; A63B 2220/56 20130101; C07D 239/95 20130101;
C07D 417/04 20130101; C07D 401/14 20130101; A61P 3/10 20180101;
A63B 2220/40 20130101; A63B 2071/063 20130101; A63B 60/42 20151001;
A63B 53/00 20130101; A63B 2024/0028 20130101; C07D 401/04 20130101;
C07D 253/08 20130101; C07D 405/12 20130101; A63B 2220/833 20130101;
A63B 53/007 20130101; A63B 24/0003 20130101; A63B 2024/0056
20130101; A63B 2102/32 20151001; C07D 217/24 20130101; A63B 2220/13
20130101; A63B 2220/30 20130101; C07D 239/96 20130101; A63B 69/3614
20130101; A63B 2220/52 20130101; C07D 401/12 20130101; A61P 3/04
20180101; A63B 2225/50 20130101; A63B 2220/64 20130101; C07D 403/14
20130101; A63B 2220/20 20130101; A63B 2220/24 20130101; C07D 417/14
20130101; C07D 487/04 20130101; A63B 2220/62 20130101; A63B 71/0669
20130101; C07D 239/91 20130101; C07D 403/06 20130101; C07D 401/06
20130101; C07D 471/04 20130101; C07D 403/12 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/131 |
International
Class: |
A63B 069/36 |
Claims
1. A system for manufacturing a personal golf putter, comprising a
putting surface with at least one hole into which a golfer puts
balls; an initial putter with which the golfer hits the balls so as
to put the balls into the hole; sensing means for sensing
parameters of the initial putter during hitting the balls by the
golfer to putt the balls into the hole; data collecting and
processing means for collecting and processing data corresponding
to said sensed parameters transmitting means for transmitting said
data corresponding to the sensed parameters; computing means for
receiving and processing said data; and design and manufacturing
means for receiving the data from said computing means, determining
final parameters of a personal putter based on said data, and
making the personal putter with said final parameters: and said
sensing means, said collecting means, and said transmitting means
being incorporated in said initial putter.
2. A system as defined in claim 1, wherein said computing means is
formed as a computer which is remote from said putting surface, and
said initial putter
3. A system as defined in claim 1, wherein said data collecting and
processing means include a microprocessor connected with electrical
signals amplifying means and collecting data from said sensing
means to configure said data.
4. A system as defined in claim 1, wherein said computing means is
selected from the group consisting of a remote receiving computer,
a pocket personal computer with compatible signal receiving means,
and a laptop computer with wireless receiving means.
5. A system as defined in claim 1; and further comprising a display
unit selected from the group consisting of a display unit connected
to said computing means and a display unit formed as an integral
part of a said computing means.
6. A system as defined in claim 5, wherein said display unit is
formed so as to display an information selected from the group
consisting of a position of a putter handle, position of putter
head, lie and loft angles with text identifying a deviation in
degrees, a putter path during a swing, an acceleration and a
deceleration of a putter head alongside of a putter path, a text
message with details related to a swing in real time, in
combinations thereof.
7. A system as defined in claim 5, wherein said display is provided
with radio buttons for computer commands selected from the group
consisting save, recall, and replay.
8. A system as defined in claim 1, wherein said computing means is
connected to an internet network.
9. A system as defined in claim 1, wherein said transmitting means
is formed so as to transmit information selected from the group
consisting of lie and loft angles, a weight of putter head, a
weight of a putter shaft, a location of a center of gravity of a
putter head, a putter face angle, a shaft lie angle, and offset
position, an identification of a golfer who hits the ball with a
golf putter, and combinations thereof.
10. A system as defined in claim 9, wherein said initial putter has
a handle and a head, said sensing means including
acceleration/deceleration measuring means, one part of putter path
measuring means, and rotation measuring means located in said head,
and also including lie/loft angles measuring means and another part
of the putter path measuring means located in said handle.
11. A system as defined in claim 10, wherein said data collecting
and processing means and said transmitting means are located in
said handle.
12. A system as defined in claim 1; and further comprising a
training putter which is identical with said final personal putter,
and in addition has said sensing means, said data collecting and
processing means, and said transmitting means.
13. A system as defined in claim 1; and further comprising a switch
actuatable by a user and switching operation of electronic system
of said initial putter between a plurality of modes.
14. A system as defined in claim 13; and further comprising
indicating means operative for visually indicating the modes to
which the electronic system of said initial putter is switched.
15. A system as defined in claim 13; and further comprising
indicating means operative for audio indicating the modes to which
the electronic system of said initial putter is switched.
16. A method for manufacturing a personal golf putter, comprising
providing a putting surface with at least one hole into which a
golfer putts balls; providing an initial putter with which the
golfer hits the balls so as to putt the balls into the hole;
sensing parameters of the initial putter during hitting the balls
by the golfer to putt the balls into the hole; collecting and
processing data corresponding to the sensed parameters by data
collecting and processing means; transmitting data corresponding to
the sensed parameters by transmitting means; receiving and
processing said data by computing means; receiving the data from
said computing means, determining parameters of a personal putter
based on said data, and making the personal putter with said
parameters by design and manufacturing means; and incorporating
said sensing means, said data collecting and processing means and
said transmitting means being incorporated in said putter.
17. A method as defined in claim 16; and further comprising forming
said computing means is formed as a computer which is remote from
said putting surface.
18. A method as defined in claim 10; and further comprising
providing said data collecting and processing means with a
microprocessor connected with and collecting the data from said
sensing means to configure said data.
19. A method as defined in claim 16; and further comprising
selecting said computing means from the group consisting of a
remote receiving computer, a pocket personal computer with
compatible signal receiving means, and a laptop computer with
wireless receiving means.
20. A method as defined in claim 16; and further comprising
providing a display unit selected from the group consisting of a
display unit connected to said computing means and a display unit
formed as an integral part of a said computing means.
21. A method as defined in claim 20; and further comprising forming
said display unit so as to display an information selected from the
group consisting of a position of a putter handle, position of
putter head, lie and loft angles with text identifying a deviation
in degrees, a putter path during a swing, and acceleration and a
deceleration of a putter head alongside of a putter path, a text
message with details related to a swing in real time, in
combinations thereof.
22. A method as defined in claim 20; and further comprising
providing said display with radio buttons for computer commands
selected from the group consisting save, recall, and replay.
23. A method as defined in claim 16, and further comprising
connecting said computing means to an internet network.
24. A method as defined in claim 16; and further comprising
providing said transmitting means so as to transmit information
selected from the group consisting of lie and loft angles, a weight
of putter head, a weight of a putter shaft, a location of a center
of gravity of a putter head, a putter face angle, a shaft lie
angle, and offset position, an identification of a golfer who hits
the ball with a golf putter, and combinations thereof.
25. A method as defined in claim 16; and further comprising
providing said initial putter with a handle and a head; and
providing said sensing means with acceleration/deceleration
measuring means, one part of putter path measuring means, and
rotation measuring means located in said head, and also with
lie/loft angles measuring and another part of the putter path
measuring means located in said handle.
26. A method as defined in claim 16; and further comprising
arranging said data collecting and processing means and said
transmitting means in said handle.
27. A method as defined in claim 16; and further comprising
providing a training putter which is identical with said final
personal putter, and in addition has said sensing means, said data
collecting and processing means, and said transmitting means.
28. A method as defined in claim 16; and further comprising
providing a switch actuatable by a user and switching operation of
electronic systems of said initial putter between a plurality of
nodes.
29. A method as defined in claim 28; and further comprising
providing indicating means operative for visually indicating the
modes to which the electronic system of said initial putter is
switched.
30. A method as defined in claim 28; and further comprising
providing indicating means operative for audio indicating the modes
to which the electronic system of said initial putter is
switched.
31. A system as defined in claim 1; and further comprising means
operative for providing voice instructional commands from the group
consisting of a displayed information connected to said computing
means and a display unit formed as an integral part said computing
means.
32. A method as defined in claim 16; and further comprising
providing a voice instructional commands from the group consisting
of a displayed information connected to said computing means and a
display unit formed as an integral part of said computing means.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO A RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/920,529, filed on Aug. 1, 2001.
[0002] This application is based on provisional patent application
serial No. 60/473,317 Jun. 4, 2003, from which the priority is
claimed.
[0003] This application is based on provisional patent application
serial No. 60/442,548 Jan. 27, 2003, from which the priority is
claimed.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present invention relates to a system for and a method
of manufacturing personal golf putters in accordance with
individual swing characteristics of a golfer.
[0005] In the past five years, technology relating to the game of
golf has evolved rapidly, with many different systems having been
implemented for improving a golfer's performance and quality of the
golf clubs utilized.
[0006] U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,063,259 and 4,375,887 disclose techniques
for detecting golf club head position, and golf ball position,
shortly after impact using photoelectric means to trigger a flash
so as to permit a photograph to be taken of the head and golf ball
flight characteristics (e.g. Launch angels) where data is collected
using external monitoring cameras using standard golf club.
[0007] U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,565,448 B2, 5,342,054; 5,697,791;
5,486,001; 5,472,205; 5,249,967; 5,154,427; 5,111,410; and
4,713,686 disclose systems and methods for analyzing a golfer's
swing, and providing feedback to the golfer based on images
collected using external video cameras and standard golf clubs.
[0008] U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,501,463 and 5,575,719 disclose techniques
using external cameras for detecting club head position shortly
after impact using cameras capable of receiving light from multiple
reflectors placed on the club head prior to the swing.
[0009] The other solution disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,416,0942;
4,545,576; 4,713,686; 4,755,881; 4,860,096; 4,891,748; 5,111,410;
5,184,295; 5,210,603; 5,333,061; 5,342,054; 5,441,256; 5,472,205
5,486,001; 5,501,463; 5,575,791; 5,591,091; 5,772,522; 5,797,805;
5,214,417; 5,823,387; 5,827,127; 5,864,960; 5,911,636; 5,951,410;
6,041,651; 6,565,448.
[0010] It is believed that the existing system and methods can be
further improved.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to
provide a system and a method of manufacturing personal golf
putters, which avoids the disadvantages of the prior art.
[0012] In keeping with these objectives and with others which will
become apparent hereinafter, one feature of the present invention
resides, briefly stated, in a system for manufacturing a personal
golf putter, comprising a putting surface with at least one hole
into which a golfer putts balls; a putter with which the golfer
hits the balls so as to put the balls into the hole; sensing means
for sensing parameters of the putter during hitting the balls by
the golfer to putt the balls into the hole; collecting and
processing means for collecting and processing data corresponding
to said sensed parameters; transmitting means for transmitting said
data corresponding to the sensed parameters; computer means for
receiving and processing said data; and design and manufacturing
means for receiving the data from said computing means, determining
final parameters of a personal putter based on said data, and
making the personal putter with said parameters, said sensing
means, said collecting and processing means, and said transmitting
means being incorporated in said putter.
[0013] Another feature of the present invention resides, briefly
stated, in a method for manufacturing a personal putter, comprising
providing a putting surface with at least one hole into which a
golfer puts balls; providing a putter with which the golfer hits
the balls so as to put the balls into the hole; sensibly sensing
means parameters of the, putter during hitting the balls by the
golfer to putt the balls into the hole; collecting and processing
data corresponding to the sensed parameters by collecting and
processing means; transmitting said data corresponding to the
sensed parameters by transmitting means; receiving and processing
said data by computer means; receiving the data from said computing
means, determining parameters of a personal putter based on said
data, and making the personal putter with said parameters by design
and manufacturing means; and incorporating said sensing means, said
collecting and processing means, and said transmitting means in
said putter.
[0014] When the system is designed and the method is performed in
accordance with the present invention, it is possible to analyze
golfer's individual swing characteristics and to determine based on
that analysis a suitable golf club configuration for the golfer
with the use of the sensing and transmitting means which are
incorporated in a normal golf putter with data related to the
golfer's swing obtained in the most natural setting, i.e.
unencumbered with cameras, lights and associated equipment, and to
manufacture a personal golf putter exactly in accordance with
personal characteristics of the golfer, by wirelessly taking the
data from the golf putter in a remote computer device for
collecting, computing and analyzing the data and subsequent
transmission of the data to a design and manufacturing facility
which manufactures a personal golf putter in correspondence with
personal characteristics of the golfer.
[0015] In accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the
invention, the sensing means include at least one memes
accelerometer sensor with at least one axis acceleration measuring
means built on a single monolithic integrated circuit; the said
sensing means is embedded in the golf head and shaft, and
transmitting means include a microprocessor mounted in the shaft of
the golf club and communicating wirelessly signals to the remote
computer means.
[0016] In accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention, the computer is connected to a display interface with
means to display text images and graphics, and in addition means is
included for analyzing the displayed graphics and text data of the
golfer's swing. Displayed graphics can include putter club head
acceleration/deceleration color coded line graph, putter path
tracking line alongside acceleration line, lie and loft angles at
address and at moment of impact with golf ball, color coded
positions of the top of the grip, displaying information related to
wrist applications and its effect in a putting stroke and ball
speed factor.
[0017] In accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention, the golf putter is electrically activated and the remote
computer is also activated; and golfer's swing related data from
the said golf club are automatically relayed to the computer
wirelessly and the feedback relayed to the computer wirelessly and
the feedback relayed to the golfer is instantaneously displayed on
a computer screen. The feedback displayed include the actual ball
travel distance is measured and a target distance is entered in the
database, and the golfer is ready to make a next swing. Each swing
data is displayed and stored in the computer database until a full
set of data is provided to the satisfaction of an instructor.
[0018] In accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention, the golfer's data can be e-mailed to a remote location,
in particular to a golf putter design and manufacturing center. The
center can be provided with means for interpretation and analysis
of the data and with means for providing recommendations for a
specific configuration of the golf putter.
[0019] In accordance with still another embodiment of the present
invention, in the design center computer can be provided with means
for generating a machine language coded file for CNC machines with
the use of mathematical models and with means to interface with the
golfer's swing data, wherein the specification criteria of a
personal golf putter include club head weight, lie and loft angles
of the putter head and the overall lie and loft angles for the golf
putter, and shaft length and shaft weight.
[0020] In accordance with still a further feature of the present
invention, the computer at the design and manufacturing center is
provided with means for simulation, based on the golfer's swing
data and the manufactured personal golf putter database, to test if
the thusly manufactured golf putter will result in better or
improved results of the golfer.
[0021] Also, means can be provided for confirming that the golf
putter specifications are such that they provide a golfer with
desired swing results, based on an analysis of the performance of a
golf ball following impact with the manufactured personal golf
putter, or on and analysis of the golfer's wrist movements during
the golf swing.
[0022] The novel features which are considered as characteristic
for the present invention are set forth in particular in the
appended claims. The invention itself, however, both as to its
construction and its methods of operation, together with additional
objects and advantages thereof, will be best understood from the
following description of specific embodiments when read in
connection with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] FIG. 1 is a view showing a golfer with a golf putter, a golf
ball, on a putting green and wirelessly connected pocket personal
computer of the system and method in accordance with the present
invention.
[0024] FIG. 2 is view showing a flowchart of the system and method
of the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 3 is a view showing some features of a golf putter in
accordance with the present invention, which is used in the
inventive system and method;
[0026] FIG. 3A is a cross sectional view showing sensor mounted in
shaft in accordance with the present invention, which is used in
the inventive system and method;
[0027] FIG. 3B is a view showing the top of the golf putter with a
light emitting diode and a speaker;
[0028] FIG. 4 is a view illustrating a display showing acceleration
and putter path color coded; color coded position of the grip
handle in accordance with the present invention, which is used in
the inventive system and method;
[0029] FIG. 5 is a view illustrating a display showing lie and loft
angles color coded; and ball speed factor text message in
accordance with the present invention, which is used in the
inventive system and method;
[0030] FIGS. 6a, 6b, 6c are views showing a configured putter head,
a configured putter assembly correspondingly;
[0031] FIGS. 7a and 7b are views showing a putter open position and
putter closed position at impact;
[0032] FIG. 8 is a view showing graphical plots as shown on
computer display of data received during implementing of the
inventive method and system;
[0033] FIG. 9 is a view illustrating sensing of corresponding
parameters of a golfer's swing with a golf putter in accordance
with the present invention;
[0034] FIG. 10 is a view additionally illustrating sensing of
corresponding golfer's parameters of a golf putter in accordance
with the present invention; and
[0035] FIG. 11a and 11b is a view schematically showing the
inventive system in general representation.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0036] The system and method in accordance with the present
invention are illustrated in this application by showing how
personal golf putter can be produced in accordance with the
invention to be customized in accordance with golfer's
characteristics. It is however to be understood that the term "golf
putter" is used in a broad sense, and the same system and method
can be used for manufacture of other personal clubs, such as
drivers, irons, wedges, sand wedges and similar golf clubs.
[0037] As shown in FIG. 1, the system in accordance to the present
invention has an initial putter, 300 with embedded electronic
sensors with means to transmit and receive RF signals via Bluetooth
module 360 having signal receiving and transmitting means, an
artificial putting surface 10; and a pocket personal computer 60
with means to receive and transmit RF signals from the putter 300.
A hole 30 in the putting surface 10 is the target for a golfer to
roll ball into it. The putting surface is marked with concentric
rings 14, placed about 5 feet apart for easy distance measuring.
The system is suitable for either indoor or outdoor use. The putter
300 at the top of the grip 356 illuminates LED 366 or LCD display
to show system status.
[0038] The means for sensing characteristics of the golf putter
during swinging, the means for collecting and processing data
corresponding to the sensed characteristics, and means for
transmitting corresponding data to a computer are incorporated in
the golf putter.
[0039] The output of the putter 300 is wirelessly connected to the
computer 60. The computer which can be formed a pocket PC; IPAQ
5400 series HP-Compaq computer with built-in integrated display 62
for reviewing visual images and text messages.
[0040] In one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the
computer 60 can include software for interacting with the putter
data and control signals.
[0041] FIG. 2 shows a flow chart illustrating corresponding steps
of the inventive method which is realized in this inventive system.
As shown in FIG. 2, a golfer 5 has a need for custom fitted golf
club (step 210) and he must be first be equipped with an
initial-putter 300 (step 220). The golfer, 5 at a custom fitting
golf pro shop is equipped with a golf putter 300 of known
specification (aka initial Putter), identified as such with Serial
number which will be electronically transmitted with each swing
data, which includes data on: lie and loft angles, shaft length,
putter club head weight, shaft weight. A golfer 5 hits series of
golf balls from varying distances to the hole (step 230). All golf
balls are of same make and specification. Each swing data are
processed by the microprocessor MP to provide data corresponding to
the sensed parameters, and then the data are electronically
transmitted wirelessly to the computer, 60 for data collection,
organization, and storage with appropriate comments. The data are
then transmitted by the computer 60 via internet connection to
remote design and manufacturing center (step 240). At design
center--swing data are analyzed using engineering workstations with
software means to configure a specification for new putter head
which is shown in FIG. 6a and a configured putter shaft which is
shown in FIG. 6b and a configured putter shaft which is shown in
FIG. 6c and the configured putter specification is realized (step
250). The specification includes club head weight, lie and loft
angles, and ball striking surface characteristics and angular
dimensions, shape of the sole, location of the center of gravity of
the putter head assembled with the shaft. In step 260, a computer
at the design and manufacturing center develops codes for the CNC
machine which is employed to make the new personal configured
putter to exact precision specification. In step 270, the putter is
fitted with a shaft and lie and loft angles tuned in to realize a
configured putter. In step 280, quality control verifies the new
putter performance. In step 290, the thusly produced personal
putter is shipped to golfer. On the shipping day it is possible to
charge credit card to receive payments.
[0042] The putter system as disclosed contains an exemplary Putter
300 (FIG. 3) which has a putter head 320 with embedded sensors
which include at least one gyro sensor 340, xxx and at least one
linear accelerometer sensor 340, xxx mounted on a printed circuit
board 340 with an appropriate orientation with means to optimize
signal strength and accuracy, with a connection means wire 354 to a
main printed circuit board 352 provided with a microprocessor MP,
with means for connecting to a battery 370, and means to connect to
a Bluetooth module 360 with an antenna 364 for wireless
transmission to a computer the 60 shown in FIG. 1. The Sensors
which are mounted on printed circuit board 350 are dual x and y
monolithic sensors placed horizontally to the earth E plane and x/y
orientation placed with respect to putting stroke direction for
measuring the lie and loft angles as well as providing a system
control signal for the microprocessor. The microprocessor collect
and processes data related to parameters sensed by the sensors. The
putter 300 has a rubber grip with an embedded multifunctional
momentary switch 358 and a light emitting diode 366 placed on top
of the grip 355. The light emitting diode 366 can also be replaced
with LCD displays with alphanumeric display characters for
information related to controls and putter system status. By
depressing and holding the switch for programmed time enables the
golfer to select various control functions of the putter
system.
[0043] The switch 360 is used for turning on the electronic system
of the initial golf putter (for example by pushing the switch and
letting it go), for activating of sensing, data collecting and
processing, and transmitting means (for example by further pushing
the switch and letting it go), for resetting the electronic system
in the event of malfunction (for example by pressing and holding
the switch for 10 sec), for loading a new software into the
microprocessor which collects and processes data and acts as a
controller for controlling the system through the software (for
example, by pressing and holding the switch for 30 sec).
[0044] The light emitting diode 366 in correspondence with the
above-listed modes of the switch 366a, for example flashes for 15
sec, comes on and stays on for 2 sec and then turns off, flashes
very quickly 15 cycles per 1 sec, flashes at 60 cycles per sec.,
correspondingly.
[0045] A speaker 366a (FIG. 3b) provides voice messages
corresponding to the above listed 4 modes, for example "on",
"ready", "reset", "program".
[0046] A screw cap 367 is provided for closing a compartment for
the battery.
[0047] The putter head 320 includes a hosel 310, a back surface
380, a heel 314 and toe 317, a sole 330, and a front strike face
325. The front strike face 325 is flat, and is set at approximately
4 degree loft 327 with respect to a line perpendicular to the sole
330. The putter head 320 and a putter shaft 304 are configured such
that the putter 300 has a 74 degree. lie 390. The said lie angle,
390 can range from 60 to 85 degrees as a part of custom
fitting.
[0048] FIG. 3A shows a cross section of a dual axis linear
accelerometer sensor assembly 350 mounted in the putter shaft 304.
The sensor assembly comprises of a dual axis linear accelerometer
sensor 340 mounted with its flat surface on a flat surface provided
on a shaft insert 343 and angled to the shafts lie angle 390 with
the horizontal surface or the earth plane O-ring 3437 seals the
inserts 343 in the interior of the shaft. In accordance to the
invention, the position of the sensitive dual axis of the sensors
must be approximately orthogonal 341 to the gravity vector force g.
The Y axis 345 of the sensor is mounted such that it's pointing in
the direction of the ball travel when hit squarely and it is
orthogonal to the gravity g vector force. The x axis is positioned
orthogonal to the y axis and the g vector force. The sensor 340 is
mounted on a conventional printed circuit board 342 with electronic
components 344 on both sides of the board manufactured using
conventional surface mount technology practiced in the electronic
industry. The mechanical pin 348 is press fit to hold the main
printed circuit board 352 to the mount 343.
[0049] FIG. 4 shows an interface displays output from computer 60
based on golf swing data received from the putter 300 with the
means to transmit and receive data wirelessly 360, and received by
computer 60 with means to receive and transmit data wirelessly 64
(antenna). The computer 60 has the means to compute the data and
display multi-color coded acceleration data 400 of the putter head
club and putter path of the club head 420 (color yellow) along the
putter head length of travel L, of the putter head of a known
specification, initial putter. The color for the acceleration is
green 406; black 404 shows constant speed; and red 402 shows
deceleration of the putter head The display shows ball speed factor
410 (text message in yellow color), which is the measured force by
which the embedded accelerometer sensors measure impulse magnitude
at impact of club head and the golf ball at rest. The ball speed
factor is a derived measure of the impulse force magnitude and is
correlated to stimp measure of the putting greens. The golf ball
goes from rest state to rolling state. The acceleration bar 400 is
multi-color coded; the black 404 shows the zone where putter stroke
is at a constant speed, zero acceleration. The red color 402
denotes deceleration of the putter head. The green color 406
denotes accelerating zone of the putter head. The radio buttons,
450, are control buttons for the computer software. The red
elliptical element 444 shows the position of the golf club shaft
top part of the grip position at address, and it shows blue color
442 for the handle position at the moment of impact of the club
head with the ball. In this example, it is a forward press, term
used by golfers, by forward pressing the loft angled is de-lofted
resulting in improper rolling of the golf ball and possible loss of
direction control and distance the golf ball will roll.
[0050] In FIG. 4 the ball speed factor 410, is the computed force
measured at impact of the putter club head 320 with sensor 340 and
the golf ball, B (FIG. 3), based on the formula, F=ma, where F is
Force, m is Mass of the putter head, and a is the acceleration of
the-putter head as measured by sensor 340 in FIG. 3. Using
tabulated data of ball speed factor and the distances balls rolled
for corresponding hits, the computer model with means of modeling,
mathematical formulas related to conservation of momentum, impulse
energies, and vector analysis are used to determine putter head
mass, that would be suitable to a particular golfer's swing
characteristics. The results can be virtually tested on the
computer to optimize the configuration of the putter.
[0051] FIG. 5 shows interface displays output from computer 60
based on golf swing data received from the Putter 300 with the
means to transmit and receive data wirelessly 360, and received by
computer 60 with means to receive and transmit data wirelessly 64
(antenna). The computer 60 has the means to compute the data and
display color coded lie, 500(gray), 520(green) and loft,
510(green), 540(green) and text data(yellow) 502, 504, 506, and 508
of the putter. The lie and loft displays can be displayed at any
selected points, for example 550 along the length of putter travel,
length L. The putter images 500 and 510 are position of the shaft
at address with respect to lie angle 500, 0 deg 502 in this
example; and loft 510, minus 1 deg 504 in this example. This data
based on several swings can be averaged and general putting
tendency can be determined using law of averages and statistical
modeling to determine a configured putter specification that would
improve the putting accuracy and consistency. The position of the
putter grip, top of the handle is shown with an elliptical shape
552, which is color coded blue designating the position at the
moment of ball hit. The red color 554 designates the postion of the
handle at address.
[0052] FIG. 6 A shows a putter head with a newly modeled
specification. The putter head 610 has a defined weight, lie and
loft angles and hosel hole position, 620, with hole center 620'
with respect to the putter striking surface 325 to allow for
off-sets specifically tailored to golfer's particular
characteristic.
[0053] FIG. 6 B shows a putter shaft 650 of specific length 660 and
660' and weight, lie angle, 640
[0054] FIG. 6C shows putter assembly 670 comprising a configured
putter club head 610' FIG. 6 A and a configured putter shaft 650'
FIG. 6B. and the overall all putter lie angle 640' that is
configured to the golfer's specific needs with shaft length L' 660'
or L 660. The putter off set can also be designed into the shaft
with appropriate bends incorporated in the it.
[0055] FIG. 7 a shows the putter head 320 in closed position angle
710 at the moment of impact with the golf ball B and the arrow 720
pointing the direction the ball will travel as a result of the
closed clubface hit. FIG. 7b shows the putter head 320 in open
position angle, 730 at the moment of impact with the golf ball B
and the arrow 740 pointing the direction ball will travel as a
result of the closed clubface hit. The gyro sensors mounted on
sensor assembly 340, 340G(FIG. 10) in accordance with the invention
determine precise angles at which the putter face 325 makes contact
with the ball B at impact.
[0056] Table I includes Z,X and Y axes data set as transmitted by
the putter 300 of an actual swing.
[0057] FIG. 8 is a graphical presentation of the data set in table
I. The Z axis shows acceleration of the putter head as it moves
forward towards striking the ball. The begining of the forward
stroke is at time 801 first minimum voltage of the back stroke. v1
and v2 are examples of acceleration zone.
[0058] FIGS. 9 and 9A illustrates the basic concept of measuring
lie and loft 92 and 92' angles of the putter head attached to shaft
304 of length L. The sensor assembly printed circuit board 350 is
mounted inside the hole of the shaft near the grip area to minimize
the dynamic signal component to the swing data and obtain better
and more accurate handle position 96 data fron the sensors 350A, in
x and y axis 350A-X and 350A-Y respectively. The travel range 90 of
interest for loft measure is less than 30 degrees. The lie angle
350A-X measure is orthogonal to the loft angle 350A-Y, similar to
that of the loft angle measurement. The length of the putter shaft
adds to sensitivity of angle measure.
[0059] FIG. 10 illustrates the basic concept of measuring the
acceleration and angular rotation of the putter head. The sensor
assembly printed circuit board comprises of at least one linear
accelerometer sensor 340A and one GYRO sensor 340G. The linear
accelerometer sensor 340A is a dual axis sensor, axis X and axis Z,
340A-X and 340A-Z respectively measure acceleration and
deceleration component of the club head. The GYRO sensor, 340G
measures the rotational component of the club head movement about
the center of putter shaft 304 axis. The sensor assembly 340 is
electrically connected with wire transmitting means 354. The putter
shaft hozel 310 hold the shaft in position rigidly to the putter
head. The sensor assembly is mounted so that the sensitive axis
340A and 340G is orthogonal to the earth surface with gravity force
g component orthogonal to the sensor sensitive axis 340A-X and
340A-Y and 340G.
[0060] FIG. 11A, 110 illustrates the putter 300 system block
diagram which comprise the sensor assembly in the putter head 119,
which is electrically connected to the mixed signal microprocessor
116. The sensor assembly in the handle 118 is also connected
electrically to the mixed signal microprocessor 116 which is
connected to the power source 111 and to the transmission and
receiving means 112 with antenna 114. The multifunctional switch
113 is mounted on the handle embedded in the grip to provide
control to system. FIG. 11B illustrates the remote computer part of
the system wirelessly connected to pocket personal computer 122
which has a display interface 120 to provide instantaneous visual
feedback to the golfer and computer 122 has the interface to enable
connection to conventional telephone lines for internet
connectivity to design center 124 and beyond.
[0061] The golfer 5 is equipped with the Putter 300 of known
specifications which is an initial putter. As explained, putting
results are used in custom fitting of a personal putter in
accordance with the golfer's individual swing characteristics.
[0062] For example, it has been determined that, putter with strike
face 325 has a 4.degree. loft to impart a perfect roll on the golf
ball at impact enabling the golfer to better control ball direction
of travel and the ball speed factor (FIG. 4, 410).
[0063] This assumes that the golfer managed a perfect lie and loft
angles, that is the top of the grip 442 at moment of impact with
the golf ball was superimposed on the reference, R.
[0064] The system determines a particular golfer's 5 forward press
tendency (see FIG. 4, 442) which, one skilled in the art will
understand, is a situation wherein the golfer 5 allows his
hands/grip, 355 to travel ahead of the club striking face 325,
during the putting stroke and at the moment of the ball hit. i.e
de-lofting the club head striking surface 325. Thus, at impact,
through imparted tangential forces, the golf ball will be pushed
into the putting surface, resulting in loss of direction and
distance control. This downward action on the ball, by de-lofted
putter striking surface 325, causes the opposite reaction and the
golf ball jumps off of the putting surface. This jumping out
results in loss of direction and loss of energy imparted in
striking the ball, thus loss of control and accuracy. Therefore, in
custom configuration of the putter, the design would have built in
loft angle to compensate for the forward press natural tendencies
of the golfer 5, so that the effective loft angle of the strike
surface 325 is 4 degrees at the moment of club head face 325
impacts with the ball 20 resulting in perfect roll of the ball and
hence controlling the ball speed/distance relation and ball's
direction.
[0065] In another example, the system determines a particular
golfer's 5 rearward press tendency (see FIG. 5, 552) which, one
skilled in the art will understand, is a situation wherein the
golfer allows his hands/grip, 355 to lag behind of the club
striking face 325, during the putting stroke and at the moment of
the ball hit. The resulting tangential force on the ball will cause
the ball to be lifted up and off the putting surface in 10, FIG. 1
and slight undesirable back spin will be imparted on golf ball 20,
causing the golf ball 20 to "check-up" or "push-up" upon impact
with the putting surface 325, again resulting in loss of direction
and distance control, as this upward action on the ball, by
increased lofted putter striking surface causes the ball to become
airborne for a moment and the inertial forces on the ball are back
spinning causing the ball to bounce on the putting surface 10, and
skidding before the ball's back spinning inertial forces are
neutralized to zero by frictional forces of the putting surface 10
before the ball begins to resumes forward roll in the direction of
the hole. This skidding and ball check-up results in loss of
direction and loss of energy imparted in striking the ball, thus
loss of control and accuracy. Therefore, in custom configuration of
the putter, the design would have built in loft angle to compensate
for the rearward press natural tendencies of the golfer 5, so that
the effective loft angle of the strike surface 325 is 4 degrees at
the moment of club head face 325 impacts with the ball 20 resulting
in perfect roll of the ball and hence controlling the ball
speed/distance relation and ball's direction.
[0066] In the event the data collected on a golfer shows such type
of inherent natural behavior, as described above; (either forward
press tendency, FIG. 4, 442; or rearward press tendency, FIG. 5,
552 by the golfer) then the computer modeling will take this
information in to account and result in a custom design CNC
machined personal putter and shaft combination that will account
for this deviation in angular lofts, therefore resulting in an
effective 4 degree loft at moment of impact with the golf ball
resulting in consistent forward roll of the ball and distance
control.
[0067] Similarly, loss of energy and direction results in
deviations resulting from the lie angles and open or close
positions of the putter striking front face at impact. By analyzing
the data, it is determined that the golfer 5 is slicing or drawing
the golf ball at impact.
[0068] It is also determined if the golfer is keeping the club face
square through impact or, alternatively, whether the golfer is
opening or closing the club face through impact. This is
combination of information available in the putter path 420 FIG. 4,
forward 442 FIG. 4 or reward press 552, FIG. 5 and open angle 710
FIG. 7 or closed 720 FIG. 7 as measured by gyro sensors built into
the PC board 340 FIG. 3.
[0069] For a right handed golfer, "slicing" refers to those
situations wherein the ball is imparted with a force resulting in
clockwise spin rotation about the balls center axis, when viewed
from the golfer's perspective, upon impact a sliced putt may result
when the putting stroke starts outside the proper swing plane, and
then proceeds to move towards the inside of the swing plane upon
impact with golf ball B FIG. 7A. For a right handed golfer,
"drawing" refers to those situations wherein the ball is imparted
with force resulting in counter-clockwise spin rotation about the
balls center axis, when viewed from the golfer's perspective, upon
impact a drawn putt may result when the putting stroke starts
inside the proper swing plane, and then proceeds to move towards to
the outside of the swing plane upon impact with the golf ball, B
FIG. 7B. Slicing or drawing of the golf ball FIGS. 7a and 7B during
the putting stroke is undesirable, as it results in a loss of
putting accuracy, both in terms of direction and in terms of
distance and ball speed control. A failure to keep the club face
square through impact is undesirable for these same reasons.
[0070] In the computer the golfer's data are analyzed and golfer's
preferred tendencies during the putting stroke are determined.
Based on these conclusions, the specifications for a configured
putter, the offsets--i.e. strike face to putter shaft relationship
is set. The putter shaft center is either moved forward and
backward 610, FIG. 6a with respect to the referenced putter center
for the configured personal putter. Neutral or aggressive hand
action is information extracted from the putter path 420, data and
all other data related to effects of the hand grip position 442,
and 552 at impact, and combined with other data to obtain an
overall grasp of the putting stroke. The final personal putter is
configured to fit the golfer 5 so that natural swing tendencies
specific to individuals are maintained resulting in effective
putting.
[0071] Depending on the desired means for storing data obtained
from Putter 300, computer 60 may additionally be wirelessly
connected to other peripheral devices such as video cassette
recorder (VCR), a DVD player, or a CD RW ROM (read and write)
drive. The computer 60 includes a software for converting digital
data in meaningful images and text messages formed from data
collected from the VisVia Putter as shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5.
[0072] Once all the data has been collected and transmitted, or
e-mailed to design center, in step 240, FIG. 2, a computerized
design model with mathematical algorithms using engineering
workstation computer is employed to perform swing related analysis.
The engineering workstation is equipped with software means to
custom design putter parts and assembly process: club head, shaft
and shaft installation. At the output there are provided CNC
related machine codes for milling a precision putter head out of a
block of metal, or forged metal pre-form or pre-form molded part,
or a die caste part, with precise lie, and loft angles, weight,
club-face-finish and also the final shaft lie angles and required
off-sets and shaft weight and shaft length. The machine process is
not limited to CNC machines but is adaptable to other processes as
well.
[0073] The resulting custom designed putter is then computer tested
using the same putting strokes to determine if the newly configured
putter would result in improved results. Similarly several computer
iterations can be performed to realize optimum putter design for
the golfer. The putter is manufactured and tested to verify the
performance and mailed to golfer's ship to address.
[0074] This is an efficient process and lends to having
professional golf teachers and others in the field of golf all
around the world to have the ability with the invented apparatus to
collect data form golfers and have at least one design center
supply custom configured golf clubs.
[0075] Additional details for determination of corresponding
characteristics and calculations of corresponding data are
presented herein below.
[0076] How to Measure Accelerations of Putter Head and Ball speed
Factor: (FIG. 4,410,402, 400, 404)
[0077] MEMS accelerometers, manufactured by, for example, Analog
Devices, Massachusetts company, model numbers ADXL 202, ADXL 210
(or other similar parts manufactured by other companies) can be
used as liner acceleration or force measuring sensors for sensing
the movement of the putter head. In this invention, Analog Devices
parts, ADXL 210, 202, 260, and 183 were used.
[0078] There are two forces; one is gravity force which is a
constant, and second force is the variable force which changes in
the sensor mounted in the club head as the golf club moves. The
changing variable force is monitored continually monitored with
respect to the gravity force constant. Motion as influenced by
gravity forces which for the invention is constant as all the
motions are done on the earth's surface.
[0079] The sensor 340 assembly comprise a linear dual axis
accelerometer sensor 340A and Gyro sensor 340G, positioned in the
clubhead, FIG. 3 and FIG. 10, so that at least one axis, Z--Axis,
340AZ for the linear accelerometer 340A is aligned along and
parallel to the axis of travel of the club head, F vector and that
this axis is perpendicular to the earth's gravity vector, g. It is
also perpendicular to the putter face 325 FIG. 3. Club head 320
movement gravity forces "g" are detected by the sensor and
converted into electrical signals. The electrical signals, analog
in characteristic are connected to and transmitted to mixed signal
microprocessor's analog to digital input ports and digitized for
the microprocessor protocol. The digitized signals will be
transmitted to the computer 60 for processing. Similarly, data from
X axis, 340AX is collected and processed for use in putter path
measurements and compliment data from other axis to form a true 3-D
image of the dynamics of the putter.
[0080] Table I, Z axis, column A is representative of the data
collected for a putting stroke from, this sensor 340A-Z This data,
velocity-time graph is plotted, example of an actual swing is shown
on FIG. 8, Z axis. The voltages directly correlate to velocity
factor "v" as per Analog Devices component ADXL specification. The
"v" values are then used in mathematical formulas concepts
discussed below. The second axis of the dual sensor 340A, 340A-X
data is not shown here, this axis is perpendicular to the, Z axis
of travel of the putter head, vector F. The 340A-X axis data can be
used can be used for putter path and compliment data from other
axis to form a true 3-D image of the dynamics of the putter.
[0081] The data form the gyro sensor 340G is not displayed but it
is similar to the 340A, and in this invention the Gyro sensor data
is to measure angular rate of change of the putter head about the
shaft 304 axis of rotation. In this invention, it is important to
know the position of the putter face 325 FIG. 3 at the moment of
ball hit, ie Putter face angular orientation at the moment of
contact with the ball.
[0082] Distance traveled by the putter head on the back stroke and
forward stroke at any interval can be calculated from the
velocity-time graph data base for the Z-axis (sensor 340AZ). From
this data, acceleration factors are calculated; by definition, "a"
acceleration is change in velocity over change in time.
[0083] Distance traveled over finite time 0.008 second interval as
used in this invention is only an example, is calculated from the
collected data obtained related to velocity over that time period.
All calculated distances are summed up on the back stroke and like
wise all forward moving putter stroke distances are calculated and
summed.
[0084] This back stroke and forward stroke distance verses impulse
force imparted to the golf ball at rest is one of the determining
factor in putter weight measure in custom fitting of the golf club.
It is a measure of how efficient a golfer is in putting, in
controlling ball speed and direction, which translates into
accuracy. Shorterstrokes result in higher accuracy. Stroke
distances create momentum, which directly corresponds to ball speed
and distance it rolls on the putting surface. This however needs to
be optimized, and this invention can assist golfers to do just that
optimization process. Or golfers can train to develop sensitivities
to distances and hands grip force applied to the putter.
[0085] Forces can be measured from the data base by using well
known Newton's Law of Motion.
[0086] First law--has to do with mass of the putter head. Mass of a
body is a measure of its inertia. For all practical purposes for
the determining the cause and effect in golf, we will consider mass
to be same as weight of the putter head, weight of the shaft and
off course the total weight. Typically, putter weight ranges from
300 to 425 grams.
[0087] Second law--Force is equal to rate of change of momentum.
The rate of change of momentum of a body is proportional to the
resultant force applied and occurs in the direction of the force.
The momentum of a putter head of constant mass "m" moving with
velocity "v" by definition in physics is a product of the two,
"mv". (M=mv) And as this movement of the putter head is caused by a
golfer applying the necessary force by holding on to the putter
shaft at the grip location, therefore resulting in change of
momentum, we can represent this as mv1 and mv2 and as this change
is taking over a finite time change, we can then calculate force.
As Force is proportionate to the difference in momentum 1 and
momentum 2 over time "t".{F=mv2-mv1)/t}
[0088] Grip pressure applied at the moment of impact with the ball
plays a very significant role on the impulse force imparted to the
ball. Grip pressure analysis can be performed from the data and
comments can be conveyed to the golfer via computer generated voice
or text messages on the display interface.
[0089] If we make the time factor very small, for example one
microsecond, for the application of golf and for this invention,
Force impulse can be calculated--that is a very short duration
force applied to an object, like a golf ball at rest. When the said
golf ball B is hit with putter head 320 FIG. 3 with a mass of
factor 7 more than the golf ball. {Putter Head typically weighs 340
grams and the golf ball weighs 46 grams) This factor of seven mass
differentials between the golf ball and the putter head makes these
calculations even more accurate approximation and very repeatable.
Repeatability is important for this invention application as to
convey consistent feedback to the golfer.
[0090] The well known laws of conservation of momentum is applied
in this invention. And knowing the mass of the golf ball and the
mass of the putter head, one can calculate the rest state(zero
velocity V=0) to instantaneous velocity Vi of the golf ball when
hit. This is the ball speed factor calculation. (MpVp=MgVg), Mp is
Putter head mass, Vp is Putter head velocity and Mg is golf ball
mass, and Vg is golf-ball instantaneous velocity. Mass is equal to
weight for all calculations for this invention.
[0091] Kinetic Energy is the energy putter head has because it has
motion, or is in motion during the forward putting stroke, Kinetic
energy, Ek, of a putter moving at velocity v; is equal to 1/2Mv2.
Kenetic energy is another methodology for calculating ball speed
factor.
[0092] Consistent grip pressure is necessary to impart consistent
force to the golf ball at rest assuming other factors such
acceleration and putter weight being constant and consistent.
Impulse Force measure to gather with club head velocity and putter
weight can provide feedback on the grip pressure.
[0093] How to Measure of Lie and Loft and Angles--
[0094] MEMS accelerometers, parts manufactured by Analog Devices,
part no ADXL202 and ADXL 210 and other similar parts manufactured
by other companies in the trade is used in this invention to take
advantage of the gravity as an input vector to determine the
position of the golf club-grip in free space. As the golf grip is
part of the shaft which is rigid and which is connected to the
putter head, by measuring the position of the grip in free space
the putter face position with respect to the vertical plane is
determined with good resolution and repeatability, which
conveniently happens to be the same as gravity vector. This applies
for both the loft and lie angles.
[0095] In our golf application, FIG. 9, the dual axis
accelerometer, x and y sensitive axis, 350A, FIG. 3 and FIG. 9 is
placed perpendicular, to the earth's gravity vector, g. In this
orientation the sensor 350A is most sensitive to changes in tilt in
any direction as the axis X and Y will be affected. And it happens
by design the tilt measures to be most linear in the first 15
degrees tilt. In this invention the range of interest, 90 FIG. 9 is
within first plus or minus ten degrees, 92. The linearity within
first 10 degrees is very good and hence enables for very accurate
and repeatable readings. The putter has tilt resolution of less
than 0.1 degree as in this invention the putter shaft, 304 FIG. 3,
36 inches length typical comes in to play. At position 96, when
sensor's sensitive axis is perpendicular to that of the gravity
vector g, the sensors are most sensitive to tilt. i.e. minute tilt
angle change will result in maximum electrical signal change.
[0096] Hence in the putter, the dual axis sensor' both sensitive
axis is positioned in the putter handle, so that the sensor's
sensitive axis are perpendicular to the earth's gravity vector. And
since the X and Y axis of the sensor are orthogonal to each other
by position the sensor in the handle so the X axis is oriented to
measure the lie and angles and the Y axis is positioned to measure
the loft angles
[0097] FIG. 8 shows the plots of data from Table I columns B, is
for X axis, and Column C is for Y axis.
[0098] The data is used in mathematical calculations where the "mg"
(milli g) experienced by the sensors are converted in to electrical
signals which in turn are used to determine the tilt angle. This
information is then displayed on the display of the computer.
[0099] How to Measure or Determine the Putter Path?
[0100] Determination of the Putter path 420 is performed by use of
X and Y tilt angles over time base form the sensors 350A in the
putter shaft, 304 and the position of the putter head as measured
by sensor 340 as per distance traveled in the putter head 320 also
over the same time base. These three points over time base provides
the means to determine mathematically the exact position of the
putter head along the forward and backward stroke of the putter
head in the line of the putter path and its lie and loft angles at
any given time during the putting stroke.
[0101] Sample Calculations for Measure of Lie or Loft Angles: FIG.
9 Reference:
[0102] Sensor 350A is positioned in the shaft and it sensitive axis
X and Y is perpendicular to the earths gravity vector.
[0103] At 0 g=90 degrees grip handle position 96 FIG. 9. And at 0
degrees the sensor out put is at 1 g, or 1000 mg(milli g's). This
corresponds to 11.11 mg's per degree change in the grip handle
position along the circle radius, L inches. Typically the shaft
length is 36 inches long. The longer the shaft better is the
measuring resolution.
[0104] The circumference of the grip travel with putter sole 97 as
a pivot point is simply 2pieR, pie=3.174, R=36 inches. And since,
we are only concerned over 90 degree angular travel, the quarter
circumference, pie/2.times.36=57.132 inches. This comes to 0.6348
inches per degree change in the grip handle position. Per analog
Devices specification the sensor out put as per inventions
positioning in the shaft, results in 17.5 mg out put per degree
change. The system design per invention is able to measure 0.1
degree resolution with good repeatability.
[0105] The major new feature of the present invention is that the
sensing means, the data collecting and processing means, and the
data transmitting means are incorporated in the initial putter. How
these means are mounted on and connected to the initial putter is
not Germaine to the invention, and conventional techniques are
possible.
[0106] The sensor assembly can be mounted inside the putter
positioned just below the hosel 310. The assembly is inserted from
the bottom side (sole 330) of the putter end and sealed with RTV
and epoxies with a thin metal plate for fine finish.
[0107] In accordance with the present invention also a training
golf putter is produced and used. The training golf putter is
designed exactly as the final personal putter, and in addition has
the sensing means, the data colleting and processing means, and the
transmitting means incorporated in it. A player uses the training
putter to strike the ball and to analyze his performance with the
use of a computer with the display, etc., as in the case of using
of the initial putter.
[0108] It will be understood that each of the elements described
above, or two or more together, may also find useful application in
other types of methods and constructions differing from the types
described above.
[0109] While the invention has been illustrated and described as
embodied in a system for and a method of manufacturing personal
golf putters, it is not intended to be limited to the details
shown, since various modifications and structural changes may be
made with out departing in any way from the sprit of the present
invention.
[0110] Without further analysis, the forging will so fully reveal
the gist of the present invention that others can, by applying
current knowledge, readily adapt it for various applications
without omitting features that, form the standpoint of prior art,
fairly constitute essential characteristics of the generic or
specific aspects of this invention.
[0111] What is claimed as new and desired to be protected by
Letters Patent is set forth in the appended claims:
* * * * *