U.S. patent application number 11/574895 was filed with the patent office on 2008-10-02 for golf training device.
Invention is credited to Malcolm George Taylor.
Application Number | 20080242437 11/574895 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 33186773 |
Filed Date | 2008-10-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080242437 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Taylor; Malcolm George |
October 2, 2008 |
Golf Training Device
Abstract
A golf training device comprises an input portion (10) for
inputting influence data comprising information that might affect
how the user should address the ball, a calculation portion (13)
for calculating address data, based on the input influence data, a
playing surface (9). and an indication portion (14) for indicating
address information from beneath the playing surface to the user,
based on the calculated address data, relating to how the user
should address the ball. In another aspect, a golf training device
is provided for improving a user's bodyweight distribution during a
golf stroke, comprising measurement means for providing a time
series of bodyweight distribution measurements storage means for
storing the time series of measurements and indication means for
providing a comparison against a corresponding ideal.
Inventors: |
Taylor; Malcolm George;
(Fife, GB) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MARK D. SARALINO (GENERAL);RENNER, OTTO, BOISSELLE & SKLAR, LLP
1621 EUCLID AVENUE, NINETEENTH FLOOR
CLEVELAND
OH
44115-2191
US
|
Family ID: |
33186773 |
Appl. No.: |
11/574895 |
Filed: |
September 6, 2005 |
PCT Filed: |
September 6, 2005 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/GB2005/050143 |
371 Date: |
January 21, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
473/269 ;
473/218; 473/270 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2220/52 20130101;
A63B 2225/70 20130101; A63B 24/0075 20130101; A63B 2024/0031
20130101; A63B 2225/15 20130101; A63B 69/3658 20130101; A63B
2069/367 20130101; A63B 2024/0012 20130101; A63B 24/0021 20130101;
A63B 47/002 20130101; A63B 69/3667 20130101; A63B 2225/30 20130101;
A63B 2230/62 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/269 ;
473/218; 473/270 |
International
Class: |
A63B 69/36 20060101
A63B069/36 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Sep 10, 2004 |
GB |
0420080.4 |
Claims
1. A golf training device for improving a user's address of a golf
ball, comprising: input means for inputting influence data
comprising information which might affect how the user should
address the ball; calculation means for calculating address data,
based on the input influence data, specifying one or more aspects
of an appropriate address for the user; a playing surface on which
at least the user is positioned at address; and indication means
for indicating address information to the user from beneath the
playing surface based on the calculated address data, the
information relating to how the user should address the ball, and
the indication means being operable to indicate the address
information to the user by illuminating a part or parts of the
playing surface from below.
2. A golf training device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
calculation means calculate the address data based on pre-collected
influence data and associated address data for a reference golfer
or golfers.
3. A golf training device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the
calculation means use an algorithm derived from the pre-collected
data.
4. A golf training device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the
calculation means use a store of such pre-collected data, selecting
the closest match from the store based on the input influence data
and using the associated address data for the closest match.
5. A golf training device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
address data comprise information relating to the user's stance at
address.
6. A golf training device as claimed in claim 5, wherein the
address data comprise information relating to the placement of the
user's feet in relation to each other and to the ball.
7. A golf training device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the
address data comprise information relating to positions and angles
of the user's feet.
8. A golf training device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the
address data comprise information relating to the position of the
ball.
9. A golf training device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the
address data comprise information relating to the distance between
the ball and the user's feet.
10. A golf training device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the
address data comprise information relating to the alignment of the
user's stance.
11. A golf training device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the
address data comprise information relating to the ball position in
the user's stance.
12. A golf training device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
address data comprise information relating to the clubface
placement in relation to the ball.
13. A golf training device as claimed in claim 12, wherein the
address data comprise information relating to alignment of the
clubface.
14. A golf training device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
influence data comprise one or more of the following items of
information: gender; age; date of birth; height; weight; build;
race; neck size; shoulder width; waist size; chest size; shoe size;
inside leg measurement; distance from tips of fingers to floor when
standing fully erect with arms hanging by the side; distance from
wrist to floor when standing fully erect with arms hanging by the
side; right or left-handedness; club selection for the stroke to be
played; length of club for the stroke to be played; lie of the club
for the stroke to be played; strength of the stroke to be played;
intended direction of the golf stroke to be played; intended golf
ball flight of the stroke to be played; golfing experience; golfing
handicap; and manufacturer and model of club for stroke to be
played.
15. A golf training device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
playing surface comprises an area on which the ball is positioned
at address.
16. A golf training device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
address data comprise information relating to the placement of the
user's feet in relation to each other and to the ball, and wherein
the indication means are operable to illuminate parts of the
playing surface that specify the user's feet placement for the
address.
17. A golf training device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
address data comprise information relating to the placement of the
user's feet in relation to each other and to the ball, and wherein
the indication means are operable to illuminate a part of the
playing surface that specifies the ball placement for address.
18. (canceled)
19. (canceled)
20. A golf training device as claimed in claim 1, further
comprising means for detecting the position of the ball.
21. A golf training device as claimed in claim 1, further
comprising means for detecting the positions of the user's
feet.
22. (canceled)
23. A golf training device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
indication means are operable to indicate the address information
relating to a stroke after the user has completed that stroke.
24. A golf training device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the input
means comprise a device for receiving an electronic data tag
holding the influence data.
25. A golf training device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the input
means comprise an interactive screen.
26. A golf training device as claimed in claim 1, further
comprising measurement means for providing a bodyweight
distribution measurement.
27. A golf training device as claimed in claim 26, wherein the
indication means are operable to provide an automated instructional
indication to the user from a separate display, involving a
comparison of the bodyweight distribution measurement at address
against a corresponding ideal bodyweight distribution.
28. A golf training device for improving a user's weight
distribution during a golf stroke, comprising: measurement means
for providing a time series of bodyweight distribution measurements
during a predetermined period of the stroke; storage means for
storing the time series of measurements; indication means for
providing an automated instructional indication to the user after
completion of the stroke involving a comparison of at least part of
the stored time series of measurements against a corresponding
ideal bodyweight distribution.
29. A golf training device as claimed in claim 28, wherein the
predetermined period at least includes address of the ball.
30. A golf training device as claimed in claim 28, wherein the
predetermined period at least includes address of the ball and
impact of the ball.
31. A golf training device as claimed in claim 28, wherein the
predetermined period at least includes the follow-through.
32.-58. (canceled)
Description
[0001] The present invention relates to a golf training device for
improving golf swings and ball striking, and more particularly, for
improving the stance, golf ball positioning, clubface alignment,
bodyweight distribution and bodyweight transfers of an individual
playing a golf stroke.
[0002] A wide variety of teaching and training aids have been
designed to aid individuals in developing golf swings of improved
power, accuracy and consistency. These devices have a diverse range
of purposes, including improving posture, swing plane, hand and/or
head position and the like.
[0003] Moreover, several devices have been proposed which are
directed at improving a golfer's stance. However, as discussed in
more detail below, these devices have drawbacks in terms of ease of
use and accuracy. For a golfer to have a consistent, effective golf
swing for striking the golf ball accurately to the target, correct
stance, ball position and clubface alignment at address of the golf
ball are fundamentally important.
[0004] On careful observation, there exists a consistency amongst
many high performing male and female golfers of stance width,
alignment, feet angles and ball position relative to the feet at
address of the golf ball, depending on gender, height and build. By
contrast, many amateur golfers routinely have some or all of these
items in incorrect positions at address. Amateur golfers of this
type, if they aim to improve their golf game, should, amongst other
things, aim to simulate the correct positions at address of an
expert golfer of similar gender, height and build to him or
herself. Moreover, repeated enforcement and training of these and
other correct fundamentals at address will aid significantly the
improvement of the golf game of the golfer, especially a young or
inexperienced one. Additionally, enforcement and training of these
fundamentals in a high-level golfer will aid in maintaining his or
her game in a consistently good state.
[0005] While many instructional articles, books, videos and the
like instruct the golfer of ways to address the golf ball such that
the feet, golf ball and clubface are in the correct positions
relative to each other and the target, it is difficult for a
golfer, especially a young or inexperienced one, to determine
whether he or she has all of these items in the correct positions
relative to each other during address of the golf ball without
close supervision by a coach.
[0006] At address of the golf ball, correct alignment of the
stance, with the feet aligned parallel or roughly parallel to the
target line between the golf ball and the target, promotes, amongst
other things, accuracy and consistency of swing path through impact
of the golf club with the golf ball. Correct width of the golfer's
stance aids in achieving optimal stability, balance, pivot and
power during the golf swing. Correct angles of the feet at address
promote optimal resistance of the rear side during the golfer's
backswing and optimal clearing of the forward side during the
forward swing. A stance at the correct distance from the golf ball
aids in optimal posture, swing plane and swing path. Correct
clubface alignment at address aids in the golfer's visualisation of
the stroke to the target and also negates the requirement for
compensatory action during the golf swing in order to align the
clubface squarely to the target at the moment of impact of the golf
club with the golf ball.
[0007] Golf mats which aid the golfer with foot alignment and golf
ball placement are known. For example, Grabowski in U.S. Pat. No.
6,482,102 discloses a mat with foot print patterns of different
colours and club numbers for indicating to the golfer correct foot
placement positions. In another example, Dionne et al. in U.S. Pat.
No. 5,645,494 disclose a golf mat with a grid for the golfer to use
as reference lines for aligning feet and judging ball position. In
another example, Shofner in U.S. Pat. No. 5,071,130 discloses a
grid pattern for ball placement with numbers and letters. In
another example, Bott in U.S. Pat. No. 4,805,913 discloses a mat
with a grid pattern to which foot silhouettes are removably
attached at desired stances.
[0008] Other instructional aids are known for aiding a golfer with
width and alignment of the stance as well as ball position for use
of various clubs. These devices are typically in the form of
frames, strips, boards, templates and the like. For example,
Froggatte in U.S. Pat. No. 6,726,576 discloses a cross-shaped
device with adjustable sliding members. Harrell in U.S. Pat. No.
6,723,003 discloses a golf stance coordinator template comprising
an adjustable E-shaped frame configuration with indicia provided to
serve as golf stance indicator markers. Ferrara in U.S. Pat. No.
6,142,883 discloses a framework of strips with indicia. Mason in
U.S. Pat. No. 5,984,801 discloses a frame comprising adjustable
plastic rulers. Dubois in U.S. Pat. No. 5,944,613 discloses a
horizontal tube with transverse shaft with marks for placing in
front of the golfer's feet. Best in CA 2,303,673 discloses a stance
instructor comprising two members attached at the ends, which is
personalised on first use by an individual placing stickers on the
device members. Lindberg Jr. in U.S. Pat. No. 5,131,659 discloses
an acrylic mirror which has foot placement indicia.
[0009] Other devices are known for aiding golfers with their
address position. For example, Yoshihiro, Ryoji, Masanori and
Yoshiaki disclose in JP7051421 an address instruction device which
indicates to the golfer proper footing positions by projecting
beams of light from a console adjacent to the ball hitting mat.
Golfer's data are input into the device and address data are
calculated from an expression of various variables. On the console
adjacent to the ball hitting mat, the projecting direction of a
light beam projector is adjusted, and the beams of light project to
points on the standing mat where the golfer should place the
toe-end points of his or her feet. In U.S. Pat. No. 4,891,748, Mann
discloses a system whereby a golfer addresses and plays a golf ball
whilst being filmed from a plurality of angles. From the filmed
images, the system calculates a model of ideal address and golf
swing positions, and presents these ideal positions to the golfer
by overlaying the model over images of the golfer on a screen. The
golfer can then try to improve his or her address position and
swing by moving his or her positions to coincide with those of the
model. In U.S. Pat. No. 6,533,675, Funk discloses a system that
uses recognition software to calculate a golfer's ideal address
position and swing orbits. Once the golfer assumes his or her
address position in front of the camera, he or she is then asked to
make body adjustments until the stance is deemed satisfactory by
the computer recognition software.
[0010] Golf clubface alignment guiding devices are also known, and
these are laser devices which point to reflective devices attached
to the clubface of putters.
[0011] In addition to the need for the above-mentioned fundamentals
of the golfer to be correct at the address of the golf ball,
correct distribution of bodyweight of the golfer through his or her
feet at address of the golf ball and also correct weight transfers
during the golf swing, in which the bodyweight is transferred
substantially onto the rear foot, relative to the target, during
the backswing and then substantially onto the forward foot during
the foreswing, aid the golfer in playing golf strokes of optimal
power, accuracy and consistency.
[0012] Devices that provide bodyweight transfer information to the
golfer for use by the golfer in training for optimising his or her
golf swing are known. For example, Bregman et al. in U.S. Pat. No.
5,118,112 disclose a system in which a golfer standing on two pads,
each pad with weight measuring means, hits a golf ball using his or
her normal golf swing. The golfer subsequently analyses the weight
transfer results on a visual display of the golf swing at top of
the backswing, at impact with the golf ball and at the top of the
foreswing or follow through.
[0013] Another such golf training aid is described by Ashton in
U.S. Pat. No. 5,358,251. Known pressure sensing devices are
provided beneath the golfer's standing area platform for detecting
the weight distribution between the respective feet, signals from
which are fed during a golf swing to comparator means and thence to
indicator means for showing the percentage of bodyweight taken by
each foot at address of the golf ball and the transfer of
bodyweight during a golf swing. In this device, the indicator means
is a strip of light emitting diodes (LEDs) located in a low
position directly adjacent to the golf ball striking mat.
[0014] According to a first aspect of the present invention there
is provided a golf training device for improving a user's address
of a golf ball, comprising: input means for inputting influence
data comprising information which might affect how the user should
address the ball; calculation means for calculating address data,
based on the input influence data, specifying one or more aspects
of an appropriate address for the user; a playing surface on which
at least the user is positioned at address; and indication means
for indicating address information to the user from beneath the
playing surface based on the calculated address data, the
information relating to how the user should address the ball.
[0015] The calculation means may calculate the address data based
on pre-collected influence data and associated address data for a
reference golfer or golfers.
[0016] The calculation means may use an algorithm derived from the
pre-collected data.
[0017] The calculation means may use a store of such pre-collected
data, selecting the closest match from the store based on the input
influence data and using the associated address data for the
closest match.
[0018] The address data may comprise information relating to the
user's stance at address.
[0019] The address data may comprise information relating to the
placement of the user's feet in relation to each other and to the
ball.
[0020] The address data may comprise information relating to
positions and angles of the user's feet.
[0021] The address data may comprise information relating to the
position of the ball.
[0022] The address data may comprise information relating to the
distance between the ball and the user's feet.
[0023] The address data may comprise information relating to the
alignment of the user's stance.
[0024] The address data may comprise information relating to the
ball position in the user's stance.
[0025] The address data may comprise information relating to the
clubface placement in relation to the ball.
[0026] The address data may comprise information relating to
alignment of the clubface.
[0027] The address information indicated to the user may depend not
only on the influence data and address data derived therefrom, but
also on the intended target direction. The intended target
direction may also be indicated to the user.
[0028] The influence data may comprise one or more of the following
items of information: gender; age; date of birth; height; weight;
build; race; neck size; shoulder width; waist size; chest size;
shoe size; inside leg measurement; distance from tips of fingers to
floor when standing fully erect with arms hanging by the side;
distance from wrist to floor when standing fully erect with arms
hanging by the side; right or left-handedness; club selection for
the stroke to be played; length of club for the stroke to be
played; lie of the club for the stroke to be played; strength of
the stroke to be played; intended direction of the golf stroke to
be played; intended golf ball flight of the stroke to be played;
golfing experience; golfing handicap; and manufacturer and model of
club for stroke to be played.
[0029] The playing surface may comprise an area on which the ball
is positioned at address.
[0030] The indication means may be operable to indicate the address
information to the user by illuminating a part or parts of the
playing surface from below.
[0031] The indication means may be operable to illuminate parts of
the playing surface from below that specify the user's feet
placement for the address.
[0032] The indication means may be operable to illuminate a part of
the playing surface that specifies the ball placement for
address.
[0033] The indication means may comprise an array of light-emitting
devices beneath the playing surface that are selectively
illuminated to indicate the address information to the user. In
this respect, therefore, illuminating the playing surface should be
taken to include providing illumination through the playing surface
from beneath, such that the playing surface appears illuminated to
the user. The array of light-emitting devices may comprise
LEDs.
[0034] The playing surface is to be understood as being the top
surface of the area or mat on which at least the user is
positioned, and as such has no volume or depth. The playing surface
need not be contiguous; for example it may comprise separate areas
for the user's feet and for the ball. The ball may be positioned on
the playing surface using a tee.
[0035] The device may further comprise means for detecting the
position of the ball.
[0036] The device may further comprise means for detecting the
positions of the user's feet.
[0037] The detecting means may comprise a pressure-responsive
device or devices beneath the playing surface.
[0038] The indication means may be operable to indicate the address
information relating to a stroke after the user has completed that
stroke.
[0039] The input means may comprise a device for receiving an
electronic data tag or the like holding the influence data.
[0040] The input means may comprise an interactive screen.
[0041] The device may further comprise measurement means for
providing a bodyweight distribution measurement.
[0042] The indication means may be operable to provide an automated
instructional indication to the user involving a comparison of the
bodyweight distribution measurement at address against a
corresponding ideal bodyweight distribution.
[0043] The indication means are able to provide information to the
user in an automated manner based on the calculated address data.
This provides a very convenient training aid for the user, who is
able to receive targeted training with minimal input from the user
and minimal or no intervention from trained personnel or an
experienced golfer.
[0044] According to a second aspect of the present invention there
is provided a golf training device for improving a user's weight
distribution during a golf stroke, comprising: measurement means
for providing a time series of bodyweight distribution measurements
during a predetermined period of the stroke; storage means for
storing the time series of measurements; indication means for
providing an automated instructional indication to the golfer after
completion of the stroke involving a comparison of at least part of
the stored time series of measurements against a corresponding
ideal bodyweight distribution.
[0045] The predetermined period may at least include address of the
ball.
[0046] The predetermined period may at least include address of the
ball and impact of the ball.
[0047] The predetermined period may at least include the
follow-through.
[0048] The indication means may comprise a display device for
displaying the instructional indication.
[0049] The instructional indication may comprise a plot of the
measured bodyweight distribution of the user.
[0050] The instructional indication may comprise a plot of the
measured bodyweight distribution of the user together with a plot
of the ideal bodyweight distribution.
[0051] The device may further comprise calculation means for
determining differences between the measured bodyweight
distribution and the ideal bodyweight distribution.
[0052] The instructional indication may comprise advice relating to
how the user should change his or her bodyweight distribution at
address and/or during the golf swing to reduce the determined
differences.
[0053] The measurement means may be operable to measure bodyweight
distribution between the heel end and toe end of one or both of the
user's feet as well as bodyweight distribution between respective
feet.
[0054] The instructional indication may comprise a graphical
representation of the measured bodyweight transfer between heel end
and toe end during a predetermined short period of the stroke.
[0055] The instructional indication may comprise a graphical
representation based on the measured change in bodyweight
distribution between the respective feet and between heel end and
toe end of both feet during a predetermined short period of the
stroke together with a graphical representation of the ideal change
in bodyweight distribution for that short period. The graphical
representation may be in the form of an arrow.
[0056] The instructional indication may comprise advice relating to
how the user should change his or her bodyweight transfer between
heel end and toe end of the respective feet during a predetermined
short period of the stroke to reduce the determined
differences.
[0057] The predetermined short period may include the moment of
impact with the ball. The device may further comprise means for
detecting the moment of impact. The detecting means may comprise a
microphone. The device may further comprise a playing surface on
which the user and ball are positioned. The measurement means may
be located beneath the playing surface.
[0058] The measurement means may comprise one or more
pressure-sensitive devices.
[0059] The device may further comprise input means for inputting
influence data comprising information which might affect the user's
weight distribution, and wherein the instructional indication is
provided by the indication means in dependence on the input
influence data.
[0060] The ideal bodyweight distribution may be based on
pre-collected bodyweight distribution data for a reference golfer
or golfers.
[0061] The indication means may use an algorithm derived from the
pre-collected data to determine the ideal bodyweight
distribution.
[0062] The indication means may use a store of such pre-collected
data, selecting the closest match from the store based on the input
influence data and using the bodyweight distribution for the
closest match.
[0063] The predetermined period may at least includes address of
the ball, and the indication means may be operable to provide an
automated instructional indication to the user involving a
comparison of a single one of the stored time series of
measurements during the address, or an average measure relating to
a plurality of the stored time series of measurements during the
address, against a corresponding ideal bodyweight distribution. The
average measure may, for example, be an actual average or some sort
of median measure.
[0064] A device according to the first and second aspects of the
present invention may be operable in a practice swing mode in which
no physical ball is used during the address and/or the stroke. In
such a mode, the user of the device could take his or her stance in
relation to an indicated ball position but no actual ball.
[0065] According to a third aspect of the present invention there
is provided an operating program which, when loaded into a device,
causes the device to become one according to the first or second
aspect of the present invention.
[0066] The operating program may be carried on a carrier medium.
The carrier medium may be a transmission medium. The carrier medium
may be a storage medium.
[0067] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there
is provided a method of providing golf training, comprising
directing a person to use a device according to the first or second
aspect of the present invention.
[0068] An embodiment of the present invention can provide a device
which aids the golfer in playing golf strokes of optimal power,
accuracy and consistency by displaying the precise positions and
angles the individual should place his or her feet relative to a
golf ball while using a chosen golf club.
[0069] A device embodying the present invention preferably allows
the foot placement and angular instruction to be directed and
tailored to the individual by allowing the individual to input data
such as height and build into a computer. The correct clubface
alignment is preferably indicated to the golfer.
[0070] It is preferable that at least one of the following is
displayed: optimal foot placement positions and angles, golf ball
position, clubface position and clubface alignment for a chosen
straight ball flight stroke, straight high ball flight stroke,
straight low ball flight stroke, right-to-left ball flight stroke,
high right-to-left ball flight stroke, low right-to-left ball
flight stroke, left-to-right ball flight stroke, high left-to-right
ball flight stroke or low left-to-right ball flight stroke.
[0071] It is preferable that there is an option for the device to
detect foot positions and angles and golf ball position during
address of the golf ball before instruction commences, in order
that the golfer can be given instruction by the device to direct
him or her to move his or her feet and/or clubface into optimal
positions and angles relative to the position of the ball if any of
these were previously incorrect.
[0072] The device preferably measures, displays and saves
information on bodyweight distribution between the golfer's feet
both at address of the golf ball and during all of the golf swing
for a golf stroke. The device preferably measures bodyweight
distribution between the toe ends and heel ends of the golfer's
feet. The device preferably possesses and displays a saved set of
ideal golf ball address and golf swing bodyweight distribution and
transfer data, including heel and toe bodyweight distribution data,
from a large size and age range of expert golfers playing golf
strokes using a range of golf clubs using a range of swing powers
and swing tempos for use by the golfer in comparing his or her own
results for use in improving his or her golf swing. The device
preferably measures the bodyweight transfer of the golfer between
the respective feet, as well as toe and heel weight distribution,
for a short period of time during the golfer's swing before, during
and after the impact of the golf club with the golf ball, and to
display this information in the form of a vector arrow for use by
the golfer in assessing his or her bodyweight transfer information
and comparing it with saved data from expert golfers, for use in
improving his or her golf swing.
[0073] The device preferably conveys instructional information to
the golfer so that the golfer can easily and readily adjust his or
her foot placement and/or ball position, bodyweight distribution
and/or transfers towards those saved from expert golfers in order
for the golfer to improve his or her golf swing.
[0074] In one embodiment of the first aspect of the present
invention, a device comprises a matrix bed of lights beneath a
translucent mat, golf ball striking areas on or beside the mat with
golf ball position sensors beneath, a screen for inputting and
displaying information, an algorithm for using input data to switch
on particular lights in the matrix to form a line immediately
behind the golf ball relative to the target to indicate correct
clubface position and alignment and to form two feet shapes to
indicate to the golfer precise foot positions and angles for use in
a golf stroke, a pressure responsive device for detecting the
positions of the respective feet of the golfer when the matrix bed
of lights is not chosen for use, and a further set of pressure
responsive devices for detecting bodyweight distribution between
the respective feet of the golfer as well as the heel ends and toe
ends of the golfer's feet, and a microphone for detecting the
moment of impact of the golfer's club with the golf ball.
[0075] Should the individual using such a device choose to have the
foot placement lights in delay mode for foot placement guidance,
signals from the pressure responsive devices can be fed during
address of the golf ball to the computer and the device will show
to the golfer where the feet should be placed relative to where
they were placed for the golf stroke unless no change is required,
and the golfer will be notified of this.
[0076] One embodiment of the present invention provides a golf
training device comprising a base unit including a platform
providing standing area comprising translucent mat, and golf ball
striking mats with a plurality of tees and a matrix bed of lights
beneath the standing and hitting area wherein an algorithm
programmed into a computer is used to switch on or off particular
lights in the matrix bed of lights to indicate to the individual
using the device the optimal positions and angles he or she should
place his or her feet, place the golf ball and align the clubface
behind the golf ball for playing a golf stroke depending on data
input by the individual into the computer with regard to gender,
age, weight and dimensions, club selection and type of golf stroke
to be played.
[0077] In this embodiment, the golf ball location, which needs to
be known for use by the device for indicated foot placement
positions relative to the golf ball, is known from the golf ball
being either placed in either a known fixed, a computer-selected
position or else is ascertained by known pressure responsive
devices beneath the golf ball striking areas.
[0078] An algorithm calculates foot placement positions for a large
size and age range of right handed and left handed individuals of
both genders to play a range of regular straight, low straight,
high straight, regular right-to-left, low right-to-left, high
right-to-left, regular left-to-right, low left-to-right and high
left-to-right ball flight golf strokes using a wide range of golf
clubs. An algorithm calculates foot placement positions for a large
size and age range of right handed and left handed individuals of
both genders to play a range of golf strokes of varying power. An
individual has means of selecting a swing to the left whereby the
right foot is the rear foot or a swing to the right whereby the
left foot is the rear foot. An individual has a choice of at least
two mats on the base unit from which he or she can play a golf
stroke, and the golf ball can be placed either directly on a mat or
on a plurality of tees.
[0079] A known pressure sensing device or devices can be provided
beneath the standing area for detecting positions of the respective
feet of an individual striking a golf ball from a known position
wherein the matrix bed of lights does not indicate foot placement
position. The matrix bed of lights then lights up after a chosen
period or else after the individual has struck his or her golf ball
to show the individual where he or she should have placed his or
her feet to play that golf stroke, and concomitant instruction to
the individual by way of text and/or arrows or lines on the
computer screen or monitor and/or print-out, a computer or
otherwise generated voice and/or a movie on the computer screen or
monitor and/or lighting in the matrix bed of lights in the form of
arrows or other suitable shapes to indicate this to the individual.
This instruction may be flashing. This and other data and the
instruction may be saved for subsequent retrieval and/or viewing
either on the device or remotely on a database or on the world wide
web via the internet.
[0080] It will be appreciated that the golfer can obtain beneficial
golf stance training using the first aspect of the invention
without the need for foot placement position sensors, such that
foot and ball placement positions are indicated directly from
matrix bed of lights 14.
[0081] Such a golf training device, as described in the first
aspect of the present invention, serves to provide the golfer with
useful automated address instruction tailored to his or her input
data, and offers significant advantages over the prior art. The
first aspect of the present invention is able to indicate address
data for a large size range of golfers of both genders using a
range of golf clubs, whereas devices such as the rods, strips,
frames and mats with indicia are not able to express a sufficiently
large number of parameters to provide ideal foot placement
positions and angles for this group of individuals. The first
aspect of the present invention offers more useful features as
compared to the device disclosed in JP7051421 since the former is,
in addition to indicating ideal address foot placement positions,
able to indicate ideal angles for the whole of the golfer's feet
through lighting directly beneath the golfer from below the playing
surface. As such, optimal resistance from the rear side during the
backswing (which arises from an optimal angle of the foot further
from the target), and optimal clearing of the front side during the
forward swing (which arises from an optimal angle of the foot
nearer the target) will be facilitated. Furthermore, optimal width
of the golfer's stance between the heels as well as the toes using
the first aspect of the present invention will be achieved, and
therefore optimal stability and balance during address and the
swing will be facilitated. In the device disclosed in JP7051421,
projected beams of light from a console adjacent to and above the
standing area point to small areas on the standing mat equivalent
to the positions of the toe-end tips of the golfer's feet.
Therefore, when using this device, since desired foot angles are
not indicated, angles of the golfers' feet could vary a great deal
from the optimal angles, depending on individual preferences and
habits. As such, the golfer's resistance during the backswing and
clearing during the forward swing, as well as stability and balance
may be sub-optimal. Furthermore, with the beams of light projecting
directly across the golfer's swing path and line of vision to the
ball, the device disclosed in JP7051421 may be distracting for the
golfer during his or her practice session. The device in the first
aspect of the present invention will not present this distraction
problem since the golfer's feet will be covering the indicated
regions on the playing surface. The golf training device as
described in the first aspect of the present invention offers more
useful features over the device disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
4,891,748, since the device in the present invention is able to
indicate ideal address foot placement positions and angles to the
golfer by use of a simple procedure whereby the golfer simply
places his or her feet directly over the indicated areas on the
playing surface, whereas when using the device disclosed in U.S.
Pat. No. 4,891,748, the golfer needs to study a plurality of images
taken from the side and rear on a screen at a distance away and
adjust his or her foot positions and angles until they match
exactly the ideal model images overlaid over his or her own images.
The image from the rear needs to be studied in order to achieve
optimal stance distance from the ball, and the image from the side
needs to be studied to achieve optimal stance width, ball position
and feet angles. It will be appreciated that in order to ensure the
foot nearer the target is precisely the correct distance from the
ball, a third image, taken from the target side of the golfer, may
be required since this foot would be likely to be somewhat hidden
by the leg, ankle and/or foot further from the target. This
situation could be impractical and/or distracting for the
golfer.
[0082] The golf training device as described in the first aspect of
the present invention offers significant advantages over the device
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,533,675 in a similar way to that
described for U.S. Pat. No. 4,891,748 since video filming, image
recognition software and instruction are used. Furthermore,
instruction from the device of U.S. Pat. No. 6,533,675 is only
given based on images taken from directly facing the golfer, thus
instruction on accurate distances the golfer should stand from the
ball, depending on factors such as club selection, may not be
provided.
[0083] According to one embodiment of the second aspect of the
present invention, two moveable pressure sensing devices can be
provided beneath a standing area for detecting bodyweight
distribution between the respective feet of an individual striking
a golf ball from a known position before and during all of the golf
swing, these pressure sensing devices each having two components in
order to measure bodyweight distribution between the heel and toe
ends of each of the individual's feet.
[0084] A microphone or other known suitable detection device can be
used to detect the moment of impact of the golf club of an
individual using the device with a golf ball.
[0085] Data from an individual using the device can be saved,
retrieved and/or viewed on a suitable computer screen or monitor
and/or a print-out and/or viewed remotely from a database or on the
world wide web via the internet.
[0086] Data can be collected of ideal bodyweight distribution and
transfers before and during the golf swings of a range of
experienced or expert male and female golfers, of a large size and
age range using a range of golf clubs using a range of swing tempos
and playing a range of types of golf strokes of varying ball flight
and swing power are saved and can be viewed by an individual using
the device to compare with his or her own golf swing results. If
desired, the individual can view his or her results alongside or
superimposed on those of the expert golfers and also if so desired
these results can be saved together with or separately for
retrieval and/or viewing later, either on a suitable computer
screen or monitor and/or a print-out and/or viewed remotely from a
database or on the world wide web via the internet for use by the
individual in training his or her golf swing.
[0087] Bodyweight transfer and distribution between the two feet of
the golfer and also between the heel and toe areas of the
respective feet can be measured across a short time span
immediately before, during and after the impact of the golf club
with the golf ball during the individual's golf swing, and the
results of these measurements can be displayed by vector-like
arrows or similar indicating the degree and direction of bodyweight
transfer in this time period.
[0088] Corresponding data can also be saved for the corresponding
period for a range of expert golfers using a range of golf clubs
and playing a range of types of golf strokes.
[0089] Data from the golf swings of both the individual using the
device and the expert golfers can be displayed in the form of
graphs, arrows pointing towards specific parts of the feet and the
like can be displayed at the same time and instruction can be given
to the individual using the device should this be required by way
of text and/or arrows or lines on the computer screen or monitor
and/or print-out, a computer or otherwise generated voice and/or a
movie in order to reduce the difference between the results of the
golfer using the device and the expert golfer or golfers should
this be required. The instruction on the computer screen or monitor
may be flashing.
[0090] This data and the instruction may be saved for subsequent
retrieval and/or viewing either on the device or remotely on a
database or on the world wide web via the internet for use by the
individual in training his or her golf swing.
[0091] Two pressure responsive devices, each incorporating heel and
toe component pressure responsive devices, can be provided to send
signals during address of the golf ball and during the golfer's
swing to comparator means, and thence to indicator means by way of
a graphical representation of the feet on a computer screen or
similar for showing the relative amount of bodyweight taken by each
foot of the golfer both at address and/or a graph on a computer
screen or similar for showing the relative amount of bodyweight
taken by each foot both at address and during the golf swing and an
arrow on a computer screen or similar for showing the bodyweight
transfer between the heel-ends and toe-ends of the golfer's feet in
a short time period before, during and after the impact of the
golfer's club with the golf ball.
[0092] For use by the individual using the device to improve his or
her golf swing by comparing his or her results with those of expert
golfers, data can be provided of ideal bodyweight distribution
taken in a continuous fashion by the feet of a large size range of
expert golfers of both gender at address and during golf swings
playing a range of ball flight strokes using a range of golf clubs
using a range of swing powers and swing tempos. Data can be
displayed, at the choice of the individual using the system, of
bodyweight distribution and transfers for an expert golfer. The
computer will select the expert golfer with the closest match to
the golfer's input data, i.e. an expert golfer of the closest match
in terms of for instance gender, height, weight and build using a
chosen golf club with a chosen golf swing tempo categorized as one
from a range of at least slow, medium or fast. The individual using
the system will thus be able to compare his or her golf swing with
that or those of an expert golfer or golfers playing a similar golf
stroke to his or her chosen stroke with a similar swing tempo to
his or her own. The individual can thus easily monitor and assess
his or her bodyweight distribution and transfers against a known
expert standard for use in improving his or her weight distribution
and transfers before and during a golf swing.
[0093] Additionally, since the moment of impact of the golf club of
the individual using the device with the golf ball can be detected
by a microphone, the bodyweight distribution of the individual at
the moment of impact is known.
[0094] An embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention
provides a device that expresses simply and clearly to the golfer
the desired foot placement positions and angles, golf ball position
and clubface alignment for playing a golf stroke. Such a training
aid can express a sufficiently large number of parameters to be
applicable to both a wide range of golf clubs and a large size
range of individuals of both genders. Such a training aid is able
to indicate in a simple, easily understood fashion with precision
optimal positions and angles the golfer should place his or her
feet and clubface relative to the golf ball and the target when
playing a golf stroke. Such a training aid can be both quick and
easy to use, amenable to driving range use and is quickly and
easily adjusted from one golf stroke to another, particularly when
the golf club is changed, and for use by one individual to
another.
[0095] Such a training aid can provide measurement of feet
positions and angles before the golfer is instructed of correct
foot placement, clubface and ball position, followed by
instructional advice and information, conveyed to the golfer by
means such as an audible voice generated by a computer or similar,
text on a screen and/or print-out and/or indicating arrows on the
screen, print-out and/or golf mat, to indicate to the golfer what
adjustments he or she needs to make to his or her feet positions
and/or angles and/or ball position at address of the golf ball in
order to achieve optimal positions and angles at address of the
golf ball.
[0096] Such a training aid system can serve the purpose of
improving the stance alignment, stance positioning, stance width,
feet angles, ball positioning, posture, address bodyweight
distribution, swing bodyweight distribution, swing balance, swing
plane, swing path, ball striking quality, power and consistency of
golf strokes of the golfer. With repeated training use of the
device by the golfer, the correct stance, golf ball and clubface
positions, bodyweight transfers and balance should come more
instinctively and comfortably to the golfer whilst he or she is
playing on the golf course, practice range, driving range or
similar with no instructional or training aid.
[0097] One embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention
provides a system which measures and indicates bodyweight
distribution in a continuous manner immediately before and during
all of a golfer's swing, rather than just at extremes and golf ball
impact, which can be viewed and/or saved on a computer or similar
with monitor or similar or on a print-out after the golf swing has
taken place such that the golfer can analyse, and if desired
repeatedly analyse, his or her bodyweight distribution and transfer
information at address of the golf ball and throughout all of the
golf swing. By use of such a continuous bodyweight distribution and
transfer measurement system, a comparison can be made between the
results of the golfer's swing saved on the computer and shown on a
monitor and/or print-out and that of an ideal swing made by an
expert golfer for a similar golf stroke, thus allowing the golfer
using the device to assess and/or modify his or her golf swing as
appropriate to improve and/or optimise bodyweight distribution and
transfers during his or her golf swing for achieving improved golf
swing and golf stroke power, accuracy and consistency.
Instructional advice and information can be conveyed to the golfer
by means such as an audible voice generated by the computer or
similar, text on the screen and/or print-out and/or indicating
arrows on the screen, print-out and/or golf mat, to indicate what
bodyweight distribution and/or transfer adjustments the golfer
needs to make in his or her address position and/or golf swing in
order to achieve optimal bodyweight distribution and transfers for
improved golf stroke power, accuracy and consistency.
[0098] Reference will now be made, by way of example, to the
accompanying drawings, in which:
[0099] FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view of a golf training aid
embodying the present invention;
[0100] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of a golf training aid
embodying the present invention;
[0101] FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d and 3e are schematic views of
indications to the golfer to show optimal clubface alignment and
foot placement positions and angles for right-handed straight,
fade, draw, high and low ball flight golf strokes respectively in
an embodiment of the present invention;
[0102] FIG. 4a shows an indication produced by an embodiment of the
present invention to show the golfer's measured bodyweight
distribution at address;
[0103] FIG. 4b shows the indication of FIG. 4a together with a
corresponding indication for an expert golfer and instructional
advice provided to the golfer in an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0104] FIG. 4c shows a comparison and instructional advice similar
to that in FIG. 4b, using a quadrant percentage mode;
[0105] FIG. 5a shows an indication produced by an embodiment of the
present invention to show the golfer's measured bodyweight
distribution during a golf stroke, together with a corresponding
indication for an expert golfer;
[0106] FIG. 5b shows an indication like that of FIG. 5a, with the
axes reversed for display;
[0107] FIG. 5c shows an indication like that of FIG. 5b, together
with instructional advice provided to the golfer;
[0108] FIG. 6 is a diagram of a guidance element provided with an
embodiment of the present invention explaining to the golfer the
correct and incorrect means of transferring bodyweight during a
golf swing;
[0109] FIG. 7a shows an indication produced by an embodiment of the
present invention to show the golfer's measured bodyweight transfer
at impact, together with a corresponding indication for an expert
golfer;
[0110] FIG. 7b shows an indication like that of FIG. 7a, together
with instructional advice provided to the golfer;
[0111] FIG. 7c shows an indication produced by an embodiment of the
present invention to show the golfer's measured bodyweight transfer
at impact, together with a corresponding indication for an expert
golfer;
[0112] FIG. 7d shows an indication like that of FIG. 7c, together
with instructional advice provided to the golfer;
[0113] FIG. 8a shows an indication produced by an embodiment of the
present invention comprising indications like those in FIGS. 5b and
7c;
[0114] FIG. 8b shows an indication like that of FIG. 8a, together
with instructional advice provided to the golfer; and
[0115] FIG. 8c shows another example of an indication corresponding
to the type shown in FIG. 8b, for a golfer exhibiting a
reverse-pivot type of swing.
[0116] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the overall arrangement of a
golf training aid embodying invention. The aid comprises a base
unit 1 with surround 2, and golf ball striking areas 3 (within the
confines of which are located high tee 5 and low tee 6) and 4
(within the confines of which are located high tee 7 and low tee
8). Optionally, the outer margins of the golf ball striking areas 3
and 4 can be indicated by lines on the mat or else by lighting in
the matrix bed of lights 14. The aid further comprises a mat
providing a flat, level standing area 9. A microphone 18 is also
located on the computer pedestal to pick up the sound of the impact
of the golf club with the golf ball. Beneath the golf ball striking
areas 3 (containing tees 5 and 6) and 4 (containing tees 7 and 8)
and standing area 9, base unit 1 contains golf ball weight sensors
11 and 12 for detecting the position of the golf ball, a matrix bed
of lights 14, and pressure responsive devices 15, 16 and 17. The
aid further comprises an interactive screen 10 as the user
interface.
[0117] FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view featuring a sandwich
construction of the base unit 1 containing standing and ball
striking mats 9, 3 and 4 respectively, matrix bed of lights 14,
golf ball position sensors 11 and 12, foot position sensor 15 and
moveable pressure responsive devices 16 and 17. The layers above
the matrix bed of lights 14 are translucent.
[0118] The device can be operated by means of cash, credit or debit
card, key, electronic card or electronic key or similar. A typical
example would be an electronic key, which could be paid for in
advance at, for example, a cash register or credit or debit card
payment machine. A payment could be made corresponding to an
allotted number of golf balls to be dispensed from the reservoir
within pedestal 19. The electronic key indicating the allotted
number of golf balls could be placed on a reader or sensor
connected to computer 13 at the start of the practice session.
[0119] The payment or recognition of payment will start the
computer and present the user with the main menu on screen 10. The
language to be used can be chosen at an early stage, however many
menu choices and/or instructions will be in simple and/or graphic
format so as to be easily understood by a wide range of
individuals.
[0120] Data applicable to both the individual and the intended golf
stroke about to be played is input via the menu on screen 10. Such
data includes, but is not limited, to any one or more of the
following parameters, indications and measurements: [0121] Gender
[0122] Age [0123] Height [0124] Weight [0125] Build (such as very
thin, thin, medium, athletic, large, rotund etc.) [0126] Race
[0127] Neck size [0128] Shoulder width [0129] Waist size [0130]
Chest size [0131] Shoe size [0132] Inside leg measurement [0133]
Distance from tips of fingers to floor when standing fully erect
with arms hanging by the side [0134] Distance from wrist to floor
when standing fully erect with arms hanging by the side [0135]
Right or left-handedness for golf stroke to be played [0136] Club
selection (this can include training clubs such as a known
Momentus.RTM. training club (www.momentusgolf.com)) [0137] Length
of the golf club [0138] Lie of the golf club (e.g. standard,
1.degree. upright, 1.degree. flat etc.) [0139] Full or easy power
golf stroke (or increments thereof) [0140] Intended target
direction [0141] Intended golf ball flight of golf stroke to be
played, for example: [0142] straight ball flight [0143] high
trajectory straight ball flight [0144] low trajectory straight ball
flight [0145] right-to-left ball flight (i.e. a "draw" for a
right-handed golfer or a "fade" for a left-handed golfer) [0146]
high trajectory right-to-left ball flight [0147] low trajectory
right-to-left ball flight [0148] left-to-right ball flight (i.e. a
"fade" for a right-handed golfer or a "draw" for a left-handed
golfer) [0149] high trajectory left-to-right ball flight [0150] low
trajectory left-to-right ball flight [0151] Golfing experience (for
example, in years) [0152] Handicap [0153] Manufacturer and model of
golf club
[0154] A measurement guide and/or tape can be located on the side
of pedestal 19 and/or another suitable location on the device for
use in determining one more of the above measurements. The most
preferred parameter for measuring using this guide is the distance
of the user's wrist to the floor. The individual operates the
device by using screen 10 to choose options from menus and by
following instructions in an ordered, logical fashion. It is also
possible for an individual to be supplied with an electronic key or
tag which can be used to store this data and other personal
preferences so that these do not have to be entered before each
use. The function of this data tag can be combined with the
function of the above operating key in a single device.
Alternatively, the user may enter his or her data remotely via the
internet.
[0155] Golf balls are entered into a hopper housed within pedestal
19. The hopper may have a locked door so that only a limited number
of people such as a driving range proprietor can have access.
Should the device be used by an individual or individuals bringing
their own golf balls, the electronic key can have no limit on it or
else the golf ball dispenser can be by-passed and golf balls can be
placed on the mat by the individual using the device and the device
operated by screen 10 accordingly. If the hopper within pedestal 19
is in use and should the hopper become lower than a predetermined
level of golf balls, the computer screen and/or computer generated
voice will alert the individual of this so that the hopper can be
charged with further golf balls for use.
[0156] Once the golfer using the device has entered all the
relevant data into computer 13, and is satisfied with all the data
entered and that he or she is ready to play a golf stroke, a menu
option called "Dispense golf ball" or similar can be selected. This
causes the holding peg or similar such device at the bottom of the
hopper to release a golf ball and dispense it from outlet 20. The
chute is angled such that the golf ball will fall out of the chute
gently and will roll only a short, convenient distance, such as
towards golf ball striking mat 3. An alternative option on the menu
on screen 10 gives the individual using the device the choice of
carrying out practice swings, i.e. simulated golf strokes without a
golf ball, with the indicating, measuring and/or instructional
features of the device turned on (i.e. practice swing mode). Use of
the practice swing mode of the device can, if desired, be charged
at a lower rate relative to striking golf balls or else can be used
free for a limited or unlimited time. It will be noted that this
practice swing mode is particularly useful for the golfer to use at
the start of his or her training session to promote correct
positions, angles and/or bodyweight transfers if so desired during
a warm up. Furthermore, it will be noted that this practice swing
mode is useful for an individual using training clubs or aids such
as the Momentus.RTM. golf club swing trainer, which can involve the
individual making practice swings.
[0157] When a golf ball is placed on the golf ball striking mat 3
or one of tees 5 or 6 for example for an individual inputting
right-handedness, or golf ball striking mat 4 or one of tees 7 or 8
for example for an individual inputting left-handedness, and lies
in a static position for a predetermined short period of time, one
of golf ball position sensors 11 or 12 respectively detects the
location of the golf ball to be struck. The predetermined period of
time could be, for example, two seconds. This period of time could
depend on the settings of the golf ball position sensors 11 and 12
linked up to the computer 13, and can if necessary be changed by
the individual using the device and/or by a superuser (such as a
driving range proprietor with extra access privileges) via the menu
on screen 10. The system could also be programmed to detect if the
golfer moves the ball subsequently so that the position can be
re-calculated.
[0158] Alternatively, from the options on the menu on screen 10,
the individual using the device has a choice of having the location
in which the golf ball should be placed and played from indicated
by the matrix bed of lights 14. This option is chosen automatically
when the practice swing mode is chosen using the menu, where it
will be appreciated the spot of lighting in matrix bed of lights 14
serves to indicate an imaginary golf ball. If, for example, a
individual using the device selects a driver as the club to be
used, the computer will present the user with a choice of high tee,
low tee or golf ball striking mat from which to play the golf
stroke or practice swing (depending on mode chosen), with the
recommended location being the high tee. If, for example, the
individual using the device selects a 8-iron as the club to be
used, the computer will present the user with a choice of high tee,
low tee or golf ball striking mat from which to play the golf
stroke or practice swing, with the recommended location being the
golf ball striking mat. Once the individual using the device
chooses the position from which he or she wishes to play the golf
ball, the device will indicate to the golfer the golf ball
position, both to remind the golfer and also to ensure the golf
ball is placed in the correct location, in the following manner.
Should the individual using the device select, for example, a high
tee, a flashing arrow pointing towards one of chosen high tees 5 or
7 (depending on input data to the effect of a right handed or left
handed golf stroke respectively) in the matrix bed of lights 14
will indicate for a short period where the individual should place
the golf ball. Alternatively, a ring of lights lit up in matrix bed
of lights 14 around the base of the tee can be lit up to indicate
to the golfer the location for placing the golf ball. This ring of
lights can be chosen, via the menu on screen 10, to be illuminated
for only a short period of time prior to the golf stroke, or else
remain illuminated during the golf stroke. If the individual using
the device selects for example a golf ball striking mat, a computer
program will select a location within the confines of one of golf
ball striking mats 3 or 4 (depending upon input data to the effect
of a right handed or left handed golf stroke respectively). At the
location for the golf ball to be placed on the appropriate golf
ball striking mat will be lit up a set of lights in matrix bed of
lights 14 in the shape of a small spot or similar (which can be
similar in diameter as a golf ball (i.e. 1.68 inches) or else
smaller, for example of diameter of around 0.7 inches to indicate
an area resembling the resting area of a golf ball). The golfer may
also be informed by text, graphics and/or movie on screen 10 and/or
a computer or other generated voice that he or she must place the
golf ball on the indicated illuminated spot.
[0159] A further device which can place the golf ball in a known
position for the golfer to address and strike are systems which
deliver the golf ball on an ascending height-adjustable tee from a
hole in the mat. Such teeing systems are used by the Pareto Auto
Tee (www.seoulnassau.co.uk), Golf Tech Ltd. Power Tee
(www.powertee.co.uk), Computee by Sunaga Kaihatsu
(www9.ocn.ne.jp/.about.skg-ka/Products/golf/results.sub.--1.htm)- ,
Golf Tee-Up Systems International (www.golfeeupsystems.com),
Ikemoto Shatai Kogyo Co. Ltd. Auto Setter
(www.ikemoto-shatai.co.jp) and the X-golf system
(www.x-golf.net).
[0160] At the same time or optionally after a small delay period,
lights will be lit up in matrix bed of lights 14 in the shape of a
line immediately behind the golf ball location to indicate correct
clubface alignment and position and also feet shaped sets of lights
to indicate to the golfer optimal foot placement positions and
angles for playing the chosen golf stroke. An algorithm programmed
into computer 13 calculates which lights in matrix bed 14 to switch
on beneath golf ball striking mat 3 or 4 to indicate optimal
clubface alignment and standing area 9 to indicate to the golfer
optimal foot placement. The positions and angles of the feet and
clubface indications relative to the golf ball location will depend
on the individual's data previously entered into computer 13 via
screen 10 or data tag.
[0161] An algorithm programmed into computer 13 may light up areas
in matrix bed of lights 14 beneath golf ball striking mats 3 and 4
to indicate the golf ball position in randomly chosen locations
within the confines of the golf ball striking mats 3 or 4 for
different golf strokes in order to reduce wear on the mat at
specific points or regions.
[0162] Should the individual using the device choose to have the
position of the golf ball sensed by one of golf ball location
sensors 11 or 12, once the golf ball position is sensed, an
algorithm programmed into computer 13 calculates which lights in
matrix bed 14 to switch on beneath golf ball striking mat 3 or 4
and standing area 9, the lights acting to indicate to the golfer
where his or her feet should be positioned and also the correct
alignment and position of his or her clubface. The positions and
angles of the feet and clubface indications relative to the golf
ball location will depend on the individual's data previously
entered into computer 13 via screen 10 or data tag.
[0163] In the mode wherein one of golf ball position sensors 11 or
12 is in use, the golfer will be informed by text, graphics and/or
movie on screen 10 and/or a computer or other generated voice that
he or she must place the golf ball in a static position for a
particular length of time and wait this short period for the
clubface alignment and foot placement lights to be illuminated,
after which he or she can take his or her stance, address the golf
ball and play the golf stroke.
[0164] Alternatively, if the golf ball is placed in a known fixed
position such as a spot, mark, cross or tee, or illuminated area,
the algorithm programmed into computer 13 will calculate which
lights in matrix bed 14 to switch on without the need for golf ball
position sensors 11 and 12.
[0165] The lights in matrix bed of lights 14 can be in the form of
known lights such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The matrix bed
of lights 14 may comprise many small lights in close proximity to
each other in order that shapes and/or lines illuminated and
indicated by the matrix bed of lights 14 are shown clearly to the
user with good definition. Although any reasonable make-up of
light-emitting devices can be employed for matrix bed of lights 14,
the preferred constitution for the matrix bed of lights for the
device embodying the first aspect of the present invention is high
brightness LEDs of diameter of around 3.5 mm at a pitch of around
10 mm. The LED matrix may be situated beneath a hard-wearing
translucent mat such that the selectively illuminated LEDs may
provide useful indication to the user. In this instance the
indication lighting will be directed from beneath the playing
surface, however to the user this illumination will appear visually
to be on the playing surface. It will be appreciated that even if
the lighting source were to come from a position not beneath the
mat but be directed through the mat to the playing surface (by for
instance fibre optics), this will still constitute indication from
beneath the surface since the playing surface is considered to be
infinitely thin. Alternatively, the matrix bed of lights 14 can be
in the form of a computer, television or other similar screen. To
indicate correct clubface alignment and position, immediately
behind the golf ball relative to the target will be lit up in
matrix bed of lights 14 a line of lights perpendicular, or roughly
perpendicular, to the target line, equal or approximately equal in
length to that of the clubface of the golf club. The individual can
use this line of lights as a visual guide to align the clubface of
his or her golf club squarely to the target or intended line of
golf ball flight for potentially improved accuracy and consistency
of golf stroke. The line to indicate clubface alignment and
position may be either straight or slightly bowed to simulate, for
example, the clubface of a wood.
[0166] Should the individual choose via the menu on screen 10 a
straight ball flight golf stroke, the line of lights behind the
golf ball relative to the target will be perpendicular or roughly
perpendicular to the imaginary line between the golf ball and the
target.
[0167] For ease of alignment and use, the default setting imaginary
target line running between the golf ball and the target, i.e. the
default line on which the clubface alignment lights are directing
the golfer to aim the clubface and play a straight ball flight golf
stroke, will, if the mat is of square or rectangular form, be
parallel to the edge of the mat, in the case of a rectangular mat
the short sides, unless the mat is of a non-square or rectangular
shape, such as oval or round. The target is either out in the
distance of a driving range, practice ground or similar, or else
the back of a net placed in front of the device, or else a spot on
the back of a net placed in front of the device.
[0168] If the device were placed in a driving range, it would be
useful if it were placed facing out directly perpendicular to the
driving range bay front margin. As such, it will be appreciated
that it would be useful to have a flag, board or other such target
placed out in the driving range ball landing area on a line
perpendicular to the front edge of the bay in which the device is
situated. It will be appreciated that a straight ball flight stroke
may be the most common a golfer will use during a practice session.
Should the golfer align his or her address position for a straight
ball flight stroke correctly using the device, his or her
default-set alignment to the target or imaginary target will be
perpendicular to the outer margin of the driving range bay. Since
many golfers have a three-dimensional spatial awareness when
aligning their golf strokes, there will be an added feeling to the
golfer of correct alignment if the device is so aligned.
[0169] The device could also be adapted to indicate the target line
by use of lights under the golf ball striking mat 3 or 4 as a
further indication to the golfer. The device could also be adapted
to allow the direction of the target line to be modified by the
golfer to enable the golfer to play strokes at a target not
directly in front of the device. To facilitate choices for targets
to which the user can aim his or her golf strokes, via superuser
access one or more target directions can be calibrated and set
using screen 10. These target directions can correspond to, for
example, different flags or target boards in the driving range ball
landing area. Thus, when using the menu, the user will have an
option of a default setting (directly straight) or one or more
targets, which can be distinguished from each other by colour,
yardage, text on the screen or other appropriate means, and the
computer algorithm will calculate ideal stance and ball placement
positions for aligning the user's address position to play the golf
stroke to the chosen target.
[0170] If this device optionally comes with a net into which golf
balls are struck, the net can be either a separate entity sitting
out in front of the device or else an object which is attached or
removably attached to the device. The net may have a spot or spots
or similar mark or marks at which the golfer may aim his or her
stroke.
[0171] Should the individual choose via screen 10 that he or she
wishes to play a right-to-left golf ball flight stroke, the line of
lights lit up in matrix bed of lights 14 behind the golf ball
relative to the target may aim directly at, or slightly left of,
the imaginary target line.
[0172] Should the individual choose via screen 10 that he or she
wishes to play a left-to-right golf ball flight stroke, the line of
lights lit up in matrix bed of lights 14 behind the golf ball
relative to the target may aim directly at, or slightly right of,
the imaginary target line.
[0173] The angle of the clubface alignment line of lights relative
to the target line will depend upon the degree or amount to which
the individual using the device has chosen to shape the golf ball
flight in either a right-to-left or left-to-right fashion, and/or
also the intended golf ball trajectory (i.e. high or low or
increments thereof) via the menu on screen 10.
[0174] Optionally, other shapes of lighting could be lit up in
matrix bed of lights directly behind, and/or in front of and/or to
the side(s) of, the golf ball to provide particular indications.
For example, shapes such as iron clubhead or wood clubhead could be
indicated with a set of lights, with the leading edge forming the
straight or slightly bowed edge of the set of lights directly
behind the golf ball, and other shapes could be square,
rectangular, triangular or other such shapes. The lights or sets of
lights could also flash for a period to attract the golfer's
attention.
[0175] The device may, by way of either text on the screen 10, a
computer or similar generated voice and/or arrows lit up or
flashing on the matrix bed of lights 14, indicate to and/or
instruct the golfer to align the leading edge of his or her club
with the line or set of lights behind the golf ball for correct
clubface alignment for playing the golf stroke, and if necessary
explain the reasons behind having correct clubface alignment for
playing golf strokes of optimal power, accuracy and consistency by
way of text, graphics, sound and/or movie.
[0176] Also, beneath standing area 9 in the matrix bed of lights 14
are lit up a pair of footprint-shaped (i.e. the filled-in
two-dimensional shapes of the soles of shoes) sets of lights to
indicate to the individual the correct positions and angles the
individual should place his or her feet for addressing and striking
the golf ball from its sensed, fixed or indicated position
depending on the data the individual input into the computer 13 via
data tag or screen 10 and also the algorithm programmed into
computer 13 using address position data of a range of expert
golfers.
[0177] For a straight ball flight golf stroke, the front such
footprint-shaped set of lights (relative to the target, i.e. the
left foot for a right-handed golfer and the right foot for a
left-handed golfer), will typically be angled towards the target by
around 10-30.degree., more preferably around 15.degree.. In other
words, the angle between an imaginary line perpendicular to the
imaginary target line and the axis from heel end to the toe end is
typically in this range, although any angle can of course be
indicated if appropriate. For a chosen fade golf stroke (i.e. a
left-to-right ball flight stroke for a right-handed golfer or
right-to-left ball flight stroke for a left-handed golfer), this
angle will be around 20.degree.. For a chosen draw golf stroke
(i.e. a right-to-left ball flight stroke for a right-handed golfer
or left-to-right ball flight stroke for a left-handed golfer), this
angle will be around 12.degree..
[0178] Likewise, for a straight ball flight golf stroke, the rear
footprint-shaped set of lights (relative to the target, i.e. the
right foot for a right-handed golfer and the left foot for a
left-handed golfer), will typically be angled perpendicular to the
imaginary target line or angled slightly away from the target (i.e.
roughly in the range 0-10.degree.). Due to body torsion during the
golfer's backswing, this angle will need to be greater for users of
lower flexibility, which is generally consistent with age. For a
user of age below 20 years, this angle will be set around
0.degree., and users of age greater than 70 years, this angle will
be set at around 8.5.degree.. In other words, the angle between an
imaginary line perpendicular to the imaginary target line and the
axis from heel end to the toe end is typically in this range,
although any angle can of course be indicated if appropriate. For a
chosen fade golf stroke (i.e. a left-to-right ball flight stroke
for a right-handed golfer or right-to-left ball flight stroke for a
left-handed golfer), this angle will generally be smaller than for
a straight stroke at around 0.degree. for an average age user. For
a chosen draw golf stroke (i.e. a right-to-left ball flight stroke
for a right-handed golfer or left-to-right ball flight stroke for a
left-handed golfer), this angle will generally be greater than for
a straight stroke at around 6.5.degree. for an average age
user.
[0179] The size of the footprint-shaped sets of lights shown will
be determined by the shoe size entered by the golfer into computer
13 via screen 10 or other input. If no foot size data is available,
a combination of the gender, height and build data can be used to
estimate an appropriate foot size and shape. Or the foot size and
shape can be estimated by the height and build data alone, or else
by other available data. If no suitable data are available, a
default size and shape can be used.
[0180] Both the width of the stance and the distance of the feet
away from the golf ball will also be dependent on data entered by
the golfer, the most relevant being, but not restricted to being,
gender, height and build. These issues are discussed in many golf
articles and books, examples being Golf Magazine, April 1998, pages
146 to 147, Ben Hogan's book "Five Lessons; The Modern Fundamentals
of Golf", "The Encyclopedia of Golf Techniques" by Chris Meadows
with Allen F. Richardson and also "Ultimate Golf Techniques" by
Malcolm Campbell (published by Dorling Kindersley Limited).
[0181] Suitable widths of stance, distance of the feet from the
golf ball, alignment of the feet, angles of the feet and placement
of the golf ball in the stance relative to the feet have been
estimated by analysing the stances of both right-handed and
left-handed professional and high-level amateur golfers of both
genders of a large size and age range. These prior measurements are
used in the algorithm programmed into computer 13 for calculating
which lights in matrix bed of lights 14 to illuminate to indicate
optimal foot and/or ball placement.
[0182] This analysis has shown that both the width of the stance
and the distance of the feet away from the golf ball will increase
on changing the golf club from the shortest clubs, i.e. lofted
wedge irons through the irons and fairway woods, to the longest
club, the driver. The device also has the option of foot placement,
ball position and clubface alignment guidance for a golfer using a
putter and training aids or clubs such as a Momentus.RTM. golf club
(www.momentusgolf.com).
[0183] The position of the centre of the golf ball may vary in
position relative to the two feet from being approximately opposite
the inside edge of the heel of the forward foot, relative to the
target, of the golfer for the longest club, the driver, and will
gradually move back in the stance towards being approximately in
the middle of the stance, i.e. opposite the point mid-way between
the inside edges of the golfer's two heels for the most lofted
clubs, e.g. a sand wedge.
[0184] In general, the distance an individual should take his or
her stance from the golf ball is governed by the lie, loft and
shaft length of the golf club they are using. Typically, a tall
person will stand with his or her feet slightly closer to the golf
ball than a shorter person of the same gender, similar build and
using the same golf club, assuming the golfers have their clubs
fitted correctly for their height, gender and build, since the
taller person will have a more upright posture and golf clubs with
a more upright lie. Some junior golfers may stand closer to the
ball than their taller adult counterparts due to the length of the
shafts being smaller in junior golf clubs. An individual with a
large shoulder width will typically have a wider stance, i.e. the
feet will be further apart at address of the golf ball, than an
individual of the same or similar height with a smaller shoulder
width using the same golf club. Furthermore, a more senior golfer
may have (but is not restricted to having) his or her rear foot,
relative to the target, angled slightly more away from target, due
to the individual's lower degree of body flexibility relative to
younger golfers. All this information is ideally available to the
golfer using the device.
[0185] Two example sets of data for expert golfers used by the
algorithm programmed into computer 13 for indicating via matrix bed
of lights 14 optimal foot placement as well as clubface alignment
and positioning, relative to the position of the golf ball are
provided below.
EXAMPLE 1
Input Data
[0186] Male, Caucasian, height: 5'11'' (180 cm), build: medium,
age: 40 years, shoe size: UK 9 [0187] Right handed golfer [0188]
Club selection=7-iron [0189] Golf ball placement selection=golf
ball striking mat 3 [0190] Intended golf ball flight: straight,
regular trajectory
Indication Data
[0190] [0191] Shortest distance from nearest part of golf ball to
imaginary line running across the toe ends of the golfer's shoes
approximately =20 inches (50.8 cm) [0192] Distance between the
inside edges of the heels of the golfer's shoes approximately =14.5
inches (36.8 cm) [0193] Distance between the centres of the points
of the toe ends of the golfer's shoes approximately =19.5 inches
(49.5 cm) [0194] Distance from point on target line perpendicularly
opposite the inside edge of the heel of the golfer's left shoe to
the centre of the golf ball approximately =4 inches (10.2 cm) (i.e.
the centre of the golf ball is back ca. 28% in the golfer's stance)
[0195] Left foot splayed towards the target, from the axis of the
heel end to the toe end, relative to an imaginary line
perpendicular to the imaginary line extending from the centre of
the golf ball to the target by an angle of approximately 15 or
20.degree. [0196] Right foot splayed away from the target, from the
axis of the heel end to the toe end, relative to an imaginary line
perpendicular to the imaginary line extending from the centre of
the golf ball to the target by an angle of approximately 4.5 or
7.degree. [0197] Length of each sole of shoe shaped set of lights
illuminated in matrix bed of lights 14 approximately =11.75 inches
(29.8 cm) [0198] Width of each sole of shoe shaped set of lights at
widest (ball) part of feet illuminated in matrix bed of lights 14
approximately =4.25 inches (10.8 cm) [0199] Distance of point of
toe end of the golfer's left shoe to an imaginary line that runs
parallel from the point of the toe end of the golfer's right shoe
to the imaginary line that runs from the centre of the golf ball to
the target approximately =0.3 inches (0.8 cm) [0200] Clubface
alignment and position set of lights in matrix bed of lights 14:
directly behind golf ball, straight line of approximate length 4
inches (10.2 cm) perpendicular to the imaginary line between the
centre of the golf ball and the target lined up such that the golf
ball is directly in front of the middle of the line of lights, or
else, from the visual perspective of the golfer addressing the
ball, the golf ball appears to be aligned with the centre of the
clubface line of lights.
EXAMPLE 2
Input Data
[0200] [0201] Male, Caucasian, height: 6'3'' (191 cm), build:
medium, age: 25 years, shoe size: UK 12 [0202] Right handed golfer
[0203] Club selection=3-wood [0204] Golf ball placement
selection=tee 6 [0205] Intended golf ball flight: straight, regular
trajectory
Indication Data
[0205] [0206] Shortest distance from nearest part of golf ball to
imaginary line running across the toe ends of the golfer's shoes
approximately =27 inches (68.6 cm) [0207] Distance between the
inside edges of the heels of the golfer's shoes approximately =16.5
inches (41.9 cm) [0208] Distance between the centres of the points
of the toe ends of the golfer's shoes approximately =22.5 inches
(57.2 cm) [0209] Distance from point on target line perpendicularly
opposite the inside edge of the heel of the golfer's left shoe to
the centre of the golf ball approximately =2 inches (5.1 cm) (i.e.
the centre of the golf ball is back ca. 12% in the golfer's stance)
[0210] Left foot splayed towards the target, from the axis of the
heel end to the toe end, relative to an imaginary line
perpendicular to the imaginary line extending from the centre of
the golf ball to the target by an angle of approximately 15 or
20.degree. [0211] Right foot splayed away from the target, from the
axis of the heel end to the toe end, relative to an imaginary line
perpendicular to the imaginary line extending from the centre of
the golf ball to the target by an angle of approximately 4.5 or
7.degree. [0212] Length of each sole of shoe shaped set of lights
illuminated in matrix bed of lights 14 approximately 12.3 inches
(31.2 cm) [0213] Width of each sole of shoe shaped set of lights at
widest (ball) part of feet illuminated in matrix bed of lights 14
approximately =4.4 inches (11.2 cm) [0214] Distance of point of toe
end of the golfer's left shoe to an imaginary line that runs
parallel from the point of the toe end of the golfer's right shoe
to the imaginary line that runs from the centre of the golf ball to
the target approximately =0.3 inches (0.8 cm) [0215] Clubface
alignment and position set of lights in matrix bed of lights 14:
directly behind golf ball, straight line of approximate length 4.3
inches (10.9 cm) perpendicular to the imaginary line between the
centre of the golf ball and the target lined up such that the golf
ball is directly in front of the middle of the line of lights, or
else, from the visual perspective of the golfer addressing the
ball, the golf ball appears to be aligned with the centre of the
clubface line of lights.
[0216] Should the individual input data into computer 13 to the
effect that he or she wishes to play a straight golf ball flight
stroke of normal or full power, the device will indicate a square
stance whereby the lights lit up in matrix bed 14 beneath standing
area 9 will indicate feet position such that the individual's toes
will line up parallel or approximately parallel to the imaginary
target line and the line of lights lit up in matrix bed 14 beneath
golf ball striking area 3 or 4 or tees thereon directly behind the
golf ball to indicate clubface alignment will be substantially
perpendicular to the imaginary target line. Since the golfer's
front foot, relative to the target, may be somewhat splayed towards
the target, the stance will appear to be slightly open, but only to
the small extent that the point of the toes of the golfer's left
foot will be further away from the ball than the imaginary line
that runs parallel from the point of the toe end of the golfer's
right foot to the imaginary line that runs from the centre of the
golf ball to the target by approximately 0.3 inches.
[0217] Should the golfer indicate that he or she wishes to play a
right-to-left golf ball flight stroke (i.e. a "draw" for a
right-handed golfer or a "fade" for a left-handed golfer), the foot
placement lights will be aligned such that the individual's toes
will be aligned slightly right of parallel to the imaginary target
line, i.e. "closed" for a right-handed golfer or "open" for a left
handed golfer, and the clubface alignment will be perpendicular to,
or aiming slightly left of, the imaginary target line. Also,
optionally, the foot placement lights for a right handed golfer's
front foot, relative to the target, may be splayed towards the
target at a slightly smaller angle than for a corresponding
straight golf ball flight stroke, and the rear foot, may be splayed
away from the target at a slightly larger angle. Also for this type
of stroke, the golf ball position will be slightly further back in
the right handed golfer's stance. For the left handed golfer
playing a right to left ball flight, the front foot, relative to
the target, may be splayed more towards the target and the rear
foot less so. Also, for this type of stroke, the golf ball position
will be slightly further forward in the left handed golfer's
stance. In general, the degree to which the foot placement lights
may be aligned to the right of the target line and also the
clubface alignment set of lights may be aligned to the left of the
target line and also how much the splaying of the golfer's feet may
vary from a straight ball flight stroke as described above will
depend upon the degree of right-to-left golf ball flight shape the
golfer chooses he or she wishes to play from the options on the
menu shown on screen 10.
[0218] Should the golfer indicate that he or she wishes to play a
left-to-right golf ball flight stroke, (i.e. a "fade" for a
right-handed golfer or a "draw" for a left-handed golfer), the feet
lights will be aligned such that the individual's toes will be
aligned slightly left of parallel to the imaginary target line,
i.e. "open" for a right-handed golfer or "closed" for a left handed
golfer, and the clubface alignment will be perpendicular to, or
aiming slightly right of, the imaginary target line. Also,
optionally, the foot placement lights for a right handed golfer's
front foot, relative to the target, may be splayed towards the
target at a slightly larger angle than for a corresponding straight
golf ball flight stroke, and the rear foot, may be splayed away
from the target at a slightly smaller angle. Also for this type of
stroke, the golf ball position will be slightly further forward in
the right handed golfer's stance. For the left handed golfer
playing a left to right ball flight, the front foot, relative to
the target, may be splayed to a lesser degree towards the target
and the rear foot to a greater degree. Also, for this type of
stroke, the golf ball position will be slightly further back in the
left handed golfer's stance. In general, the degree to which the
foot placement lights may be aligned to the left of the target line
and also the clubface alignment set of lights may be aligned to the
right of the target line and also how much the splaying of the
golfer's feet may vary from a straight ball flight stroke as
described above will depend upon the degree of left-to-right golf
ball flight shape the golfer chooses he or she wishes to play from
the options on the menu shown on screen 10.
[0219] Should the golfer indicate that he or she wishes to play a
high trajectory ball flight stroke, whether this be with a
straight, right-to-left or left-to-right flight, the feet lights
may be aligned in the same or similar positions according to
whether the golfer intends to play a straight, right-to-left or
left-to-right flight stroke respectively, and the golf ball
position may be located such that it is slightly further forward in
the stance, i.e. closer to the target than for a regular trajectory
stroke.
[0220] Should the golfer indicate that he or she wishes to play a
low trajectory ball flight stroke, whether this be with a straight,
right-to-left or left-to-right flight, the feet lights may be
aligned in the same or similar positions according to whether the
golfer intends to play a straight, right-to-left or left-to-right
flight stroke respectively, and the golf ball position may be
located such that it is slightly further back in the stance, i.e.
further from the target than for a regular trajectory stroke.
[0221] The golfer may also have the option, for example via the
menu on screen 10, of choosing a golf stroke to be played with a
swing of significantly less than full power (i.e. an "easy" swing).
The intended degree of power to be used for the golf stroke can be
chosen via the menu on screen 10. In the case of such an easy swing
golf stroke, the lights illuminated in matrix bed of lights 14 to
indicate foot placement positions will aim parallel with, or
slightly left of, the imaginary target line for a right-handed
golfer and parallel with, or slightly right of, the imaginary
target line for a left-handed golfer. Also, the stance may be
narrower than for a corresponding full or normal power golf stroke.
Also, the golfer's front foot, relative to the target may be
splayed towards the target to a greater degree than for a
corresponding full or normal power golf stroke. In general, the
degree to which the indication lights in matrix bed of lights 14
for the stance is opened, narrowed and the also the amount of
splaying of the golfer's front foot, relative to a full or normal
power golf stroke, may depend on how much lower than full or normal
power the golf stroke is, which is chosen by the golfer using the
device via the options on the menu on screen 10. The easy swing
golf stroke is particularly useful for practicing, using a training
device embodying this invention, the iron clubs and more
particularly the wedge iron clubs, where a less than full power
stroke is typically often encountered during normal play on a golf
course.
[0222] The golfer may also, via use of the menu, obtain instruction
from the stance lighting from matrix bed of lights 14 to adopt a
routine for moving into the address position in an ordered fashion.
Using this function, the footprint lights may start off with the
golfer's feet together, perpendicularly opposite the ball relative
to the target at the correct distance from the ball with the
correct foot angles, then after a small delay period (the time
length of which may be controlled by use of the menu on screen 10)
the footprint illuminations open out to form the full address
stance. It will be appreciated that training of this ordered
movement into the address position will promote a useful routine
for the golfer to adopt a correct stance when on the golf course,
when no instructional aid is used.
[0223] FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d and 3e are schematic views of the
lighting on matrix bed of lights 14 used to indicate to the golfer
optimal clubface alignment and foot placement for a right-handed
golfer to play example golf strokes of straight golf ball flight,
left-to-right (fade) golf ball flight, right-to-left (draw) golf
ball flight, high straight ball flight and low straight ball flight
respectively.
[0224] Other shapes of lights which can be illuminated in the
matrix bed of lights 14 to indicate optimal foot placement
positions and angles are suggested in the following non-exhaustive
list: a line or lines outlining the shape of the shoe, straight
lines at the desired angles, wavy lines at the desired angles,
rectangles at the desired angles, ovals, circles, triangles,
triangles at the desired angles, diamonds, diamonds at the desired
angles, feet-shaped/foot-print shaped sets of lights (i.e. like
bare feet showing individual toes) or an outline or outlines of
this, a curve or curves outlining the toe-end of the shoes only,
two curves showing where the heel should be placed and where the
tips of the toes should be placed and other similar shapes.
[0225] Alternatively, lines of illuminated lights extending
perpendicularly optionally either from the imaginary line between
the golf ball and the target or the vicinity of the golf ball to
the desired points at which the golfer should place the point of
the toe end of each foot can be used (either instead of, or in
conjunction with, any of the above shapes to indicate foot
placement positions and angles). Also, optionally, a line of lights
extending perpendicularly from the golf ball position to the
vicinity of the golfer's feet can be illuminated. These lines may
serve to give the golfer a good visual impression of the width of
the stance and/or the golf ball position in the stance required for
a particular golf stroke and thus adopt more correct positions on
the golf course or similar without the use of a training aid.
[0226] Optionally, other indicating means can be used in
combination with or instead of the lighting in matrix bed of lights
14 for indicating to the golfer optimal foot placement positions.
These indicating means can be in the form of rods protruding from
holes or gaps within the standing area mat 9 around the edges of
the feet placement areas, and/or plates or rods which slide in from
the edge of the mat to the edge of the foot placement areas, and/or
arrows lit up in matrix bed of lights 14.
[0227] Alternatively, a computer, television or other similar
display could be provided within the base unit 1 beneath the
standing area 9, with a surface protective layer; this screen could
convey information to the golfer in a similar way as the matrix bed
of lights 14.
[0228] Alternatively, all of the lights in matrix bed 14 can be lit
up except those indicating correct clubface alignment and position
and foot placement positions and angles. The lights illuminated in
matrix bed 14 to indicate foot placement positions and angles and
clubface alignment and position can be either on for a short period
of time, for the period of the stroke, and/or can be flashing to
attract the attention of the golfer.
[0229] Also, the device may, by way of either text on the screen
10, a computer or similar generated voice and/or arrows lit up or
flashing on the matrix bed of lights 14, indicate to and/or
instruct the golfer to place his or her feet precisely on the lit
up lights in order for him or her to have the correct width of
stance, correct alignment of stance, have the correct feet angles
and be standing the correct distance from the golf ball for an
individual of his or her gender, height and build for playing the
golf stroke, and if necessary explain the reasons behind having
each aspect of the golf address position and possibly others
correct by way of text, graphics, sound and/or movie for playing
golf strokes of optimal power, accuracy and consistency.
[0230] The individual using the device can choose, if he or she
wishes, via the menu options, the foot placement guidance lighting
from matrix bed of lights 14 (or other indication means) to be in
delay form. In this foot placement guidance lighting delay mode,
the golfer will set up to and play the golf stroke (or practice
swing if the practice swing mode is chosen) with the chosen club as
normal without the lighting coming on to indicate foot placement
and/or clubface alignment, and pressure responsive device 15 (such
as a known force transducer from manufacturers such as Honeywell)
will detect the positions of the two feet of the golfer.
[0231] In this foot placement guidance lighting delay mode, the
golfer can indicate to the device when he or she is ready to
address the golf ball and play the golf stroke (or make a practice
swing, in which case instead of a golf ball is used a spot of
lights indicated by matrix bed of lights 14) from its static
position on one of mats 3 or 4 or a tee thereon, by pressing a
start button or using a voice controller or other suitable
interface. This start signal will initiate a delay period, the
length of which may, optionally, be chosen on the menu by the
golfer, which will count down to when foot placement measurement
will commence. Additionally, optionally, via screen 10, for further
ease of use, an audible signal can be chosen by the golfer for the
device to indicate to the golfer, once the delay period has
elapsed, when the foot placement position measurements are
starting. The device will know when the golf stroke is complete by
use of microphone 18 to detect the impact of the golf club with the
golf ball and/or use of one of golf ball position sensors 11 or 12,
which will detect that a golf ball is no longer resting on the golf
ball striking mat or tee. In practice swing mode, the device will
allow a suitable fixed time for the golfer to make his or her
practice swing, or else the golfer can choose from options on the
menu a measurement period.
[0232] In this foot placement guidance lighting delay mode, once
the golf stroke is complete, the device will show via lighting in
matrix bed 14 where the golfer should ideally place his or her feet
for addressing and playing the golf stroke (or practice swing) of
the golf ball from it's known position (or in the case of practice
swing mode the known position of where the golf ball would be
situated) with the chosen club for the particular gender, height,
build etc. data entered into the computer. Other instructional
advice for foot placement which can be given to the golfer at this
stage include a pair of soles of shoes shaped sets of lights where
the golfer actually took his or her stance and/or arrows pointing
to, if necessary from the used footprint placement areas, the soles
of shoes shaped sets of lights in the correct position(s), text,
graphics and/or a movie on the screen and/or a computer or other
generated voice. The soles of shoes shaped sets of lights and/or
arrows can be flashing to attract the golfer's attention. It will
be appreciated that the golfer using the device may obtain
beneficial stance instruction from stance indication lighting
directly, without the need for foot placement position sensors for
the foot placement guidance lighting delay mode.
[0233] Although it is described above that golf ball weight sensors
11 and 12 are provided to detect the position of the golf ball,
each of golf the ball striking mats 3 and 4 can have one tee or
height-adjustable ascending tee such as those described above in a
fixed position for placing the golf ball to be struck on, for use
by all clubs, without the need for golf ball location sensors 11
and 12. It will be appreciated that the golf ball hitting area mat
surrounding such a tee or height-adjustable tee need not be
translucent since the position from which the ball should be struck
is apparent above the playing surface. Another means of detecting
the position of the golf ball to be struck upon one of the golf
ball striking mats could be a device above the mat such as a known
photometric device for positional detection of the golf ball to be
struck.
[0234] Other possibilities for ensuring a known golf ball position
without the need for golf ball position sensors 11 and 12 include
marking a cross, spot or other similar indication on each of the
golf ball striking mats 3 and 4 on which the golf ball is placed.
These crosses, spots or other similar marks can be on their own, or
in combination with one or more tees protruding from the golf ball
striking mats 3 and 4. In such cases, the individual would have the
option, via screen 10, to choose which tee or mark the golf ball is
to be struck from (each may have an indication such as a label or
illuminated instruction alongside it for ease of reference), or
else this can be chosen by default by the computer program and
instructions given to the golfer as to where to place the golf ball
for striking.
[0235] For example, if the golf club selected by the user via
screen 10 to be used is the driver, the golfer could be instructed
either by text on the screen, a computer generated voice and/or an
arrow from lighting beneath the mat, to place the golf ball on the
high tee. Or when a fairway wood is selected as the golf club to be
used, the golfer could be instructed to place the golf ball on the
low tee. Or when an iron club (e.g. 6-iron) is selected as the golf
club to be used, the golfer could be instructed to place the golf
ball on a particular one of the marks on the mat 3 or 4, depending
on whether he or she entered data to the effect of right-handedness
or left-handedness.
[0236] Two golf ball striking areas 3 and 4 are provided in the
example described above so that the device can easily be used by
both right and left handed golfers in an enclosed area such as a
driving range bay where golf balls are struck in one direction. It
will be appreciated that it is not essential to provide two such
areas 3 and 4 where a single area would suffice.
[0237] There may optionally be more or fewer than four tees on the
device, i.e. greater or fewer than two tee height options per golf
ball striking mat. Similarly, there may optionally be more than two
golf ball striking areas. The mat providing standing area 9 can
either be the same mat or a separate mat to golf ball striking
areas 3 and 4.
[0238] The construction and maintenance of base unit 1, surround 2
and mats 3, 4 and 9 will be apparent to someone skilled in the art.
The edging of the surround 2 of base unit 1 holding mats securely
in place may be held in place by screws, Allen key locks or other
similar means. Mats 3, 4 and/or 9 may be lifted and/or removed by
removal of the edging of surround 2, for cleaning, maintenance or
replacement purposes and/or for replacement of the tees with
different or new tees, for instance new tees of different height,
which may protrude through holes in the mat(s). Golf ball striking
mats 3 and 4, if they are separate mats to standing area mat 9, may
be held in place either by Velcro.RTM. or other similar attachments
on the underside, or else by having a lip around the bottom edge
which is trapped all the way around by a sure-fitting edge on the
underside of the larger mat 9.
[0239] Either the entirety or surface of standing area mat 9 and/or
golf ball striking areas 3 and 4 can be made of for instance
durable artificial grass such as Astroturf.RTM. with many small
translucent sections made of, for instance, moulded silicone,
plugged through holes in this type of mat to allow light through
from matrix bed of lights 14 beneath. Tees 5, 6, 7 and 8 can be
made of for instance durable rubber, with the stalks of the tees
protruding through holes in the mats 3 and 4 and supported and held
by a base component trapped securely beneath the mats. Standing
area mat 9 and/or golf ball striking mats 3 and 4 can be pale green
or green in colour to simulate grass but still be transparent
enough to allow lighting to show through from matrix bed of lights
14 beneath. These mats 9, 3 and 4 are sufficiently thick and strong
to protect the layers of matrix bed of lights 14, golf ball
position sensors 11 and 12, pressure responsive devices 15, 16 and
17 beneath from the impact of golf clubs from strokes and practice
swings and also golf shoe spikes and other wear and tear. The
surface of the translucent mat 9 can be made of either durable
artificial grass such as Astroturf.RTM. or the same or similar
durable translucent material used to cover aisle floor lighting in
commercial aircraft or else other suitable material.
[0240] The surface of standing area mat 9 may be level with the
surfaces of golf ball striking mats 3 and 4 or else it may be at a
level slightly below those levels of the surfaces of the golf ball
striking mats 3 and 4. The latter option may be more preferable in
order to simulate the type of lie a golfer would encounter during a
round of golf, in that typically the lowest part of the golf ball
will rest at a higher level relative to the soles of the golfer's
shoes on a golf course than on a golf driving range mat. The
reasons for this are that typically the golfer's feet will depress
the ground slightly on the grass of a golf course whereas typically
they will not on the hard surface of a driving range mat, and also
a golf ball may sit up slightly higher when resting on the blades
of grass on a golf course relative to how it would rest on the
flatter surface of a driving range mat.
[0241] A touch sensitive screen 10 can be chosen for use in the
example described above for durability and ease of use. However,
other known types of computer apparatus, in combination with a
screen, such as control buttons surrounding the screen, a joystick,
remote control, keyboard, keypad, printer and/or mouse or other
known devices could be used in conjunction with or instead of the
touch sensitive screen 10. The computer may also be voice
activated, which would be convenient for instructing the computer
to commence measurements in situations such as when the golfer is
about to play a golf stroke. Another option is to enable the golfer
to select or change options by convenient use of the golf club to
allow him or her to do so without taking his or her hands off the
club. This type of interface could be in addition to the
already-described interface, and may be provided, for example, by
way of touch or pressure sensitive devices under the striking mat
or similar. With such an interface an option could be selected or
changed (for example to change the type of stroke to be played or
to indicate use of a particular mode of operation) by tapping an
area associated with an indication as to what option or mode is
changed or selected by tapping there.
[0242] In the above-described examples, it has been assumed that
the golf ball position is measured or chosen, and that the
indications as to feet positions and clubface alignment are
determined based on the golf ball position and target direction.
Another mode of operation is possible in which the golfer is
allowed to take his or her stance without any indication from the
device, with the positions and angles of the golfer's feet
subsequently being measured by the device. Based on the measured
positions and angles, the correct golf ball placement is then
indicated to the golfer, by such means as via matrix bed of lights
14, based on the golfer's physical data as well as the intended
type of stroke (e.g. draw or fade). Alternatively, the device can
suggest a particular stroke or strokes which can be played with
such a measured stance. The electronic circuitry of the device will
be apparent to someone skilled in the art.
[0243] According to an embodiment of another aspect of the present
invention, the individual has the option, via the menu on screen
10, of having bodyweight distribution measurement during the
address of the golf ball and/or golf swing whilst playing a golf
stroke or making a practice swing. For this purpose, known pressure
responsive devices 16 and 17 (such as known force transducers from
manufacturers such as Honeywell) are provided beneath standing area
9, each being approximately the same size as a large foot. The
pressure responsive devices 16 and 17 will move to the positions
and angles where the golfer should take his or her stance (i.e.
where the golfer is instructed to place his or her feet by
illumination from matrix bed of lights 14 and/or instruction from
the computer by way or computer or otherwise generated voice,
and/or text, lines, arrows and/or movie via the screen or matrix
bed of lights 14. The visual instruction may be flashing.). A
sheet-like form of pressure responsive device 16 and 17 can also be
employed which is responsive to force over a wide area to detect
where the golfer has positioned his or her feet. The electronic
circuitry of the device will be apparent to someone skilled in the
art.
[0244] When using this mode, the golfer may be asked by the
computer, via the menu on screen 10, to enter further data which
may effect his or her bodyweight distribution and/or transfer
during address and/or the swing. Such data may comprise some or all
of the input data for the first aspect embodying this invention, as
well as some or all of swing tempo (categorised as one of at least
very slow, slow, medium slow, medium, medium fast, fast and very
fast), shaft flex of the club to be used for the stroke to be
played (e.g. extra stiff, stiff, firm, regular, senior, ladies,
etc.) and clubhead speed at impact with a driver (e.g. >110 mph,
100-110 mph, 90-100 mph, 80-90 mph, 70-80 mph etc.). Should some of
these data not be available, the parameters for use in comparing
the golfer's bodyweight distribution and/or transfer with that of
an expert golfer with the closest match can be estimated using a
combination of the gender, age, height, build, handicap and shaft
flex for the club to be used. Or the parameters can be estimated
using a combination of the gender, age, height and build, or else
by other available data.
[0245] During the address of the golf ball and during the golf
swing, the pressure responsive devices 16 and 17 will
electronically convey weight distribution data between the two
feet, and also between the heel and toe areas of each of the two
feet, to computer 13. The pressure responsive devices 16 and 17 are
moved by hydraulics or other known means and may be each split
50/50 with heel area and toe area force transducers. If the force
transducers are split halfway, there will be no need for them to
turn round when a left-handed golfer uses the device after a
right-handed golfer and vice versa. The computer will know which
way round to collect and report data from the previously-input data
relating to the right- or left-handedness of the golfer.
[0246] The golfer can give his or her indication when he or she is
ready to address the golf ball and play the golf stroke (or make
the practice swing if practice swing mode is chosen on the menu)
from its static position on one of mats 3 or 4 or a tee thereon, by
either pressing a start button, touching a start button area on the
screen 10, using a voice controller or by some other interface.
This start signal will initiate a delay period, the length of which
can be chosen on the menu on screen 10 by the golfer, however for
ease of use a default setting will also be programmed into the
computer 13 which can be chosen if desired, which will count down
to when bodyweight distribution measurement will commence.
Additionally, for further ease of use, an audible signal could be
chosen by the golfer for example via screen 10 which the device
would emit to indicate to the golfer when the bodyweight
distribution measurements are starting (once the delay period has
elapsed).
[0247] The force transducers may measure bodyweight distribution
between the right toe area, right heel area, left toe area and left
heel area of the individual in a continuous manner for the duration
of the measurement period. The computer will know when the golf
stroke is complete by use of microphone 18 to detect the impact of
the golf club with the golf ball and/or use of one of golf ball
position sensors 11 or 12, which will detect that a golf ball is no
longer resting on the golf ball striking mat or tee. If practice
swing mode is employed, bodyweight distribution measurement will
stop after a default period or else the period of time can be
chosen by the golfer using the menu on screen 10.
[0248] Also, once the golf stroke is complete, the lights switched
on in matrix bed of lights 14 may be switched off until the golfer
indicates to computer 13 via screen 10 that he or she is satisfied
with all of the data entered for the next stroke (amongst other
things, the golf club selection and/or type of golf ball flight can
be changed at this stage) and, if golf ball striking mode is
chosen, another golf ball is placed upon golf ball striking areas 3
or 4 or one of the tees thereon.
[0249] Of course, the golf swing does not end with the impact of
club against ball, but also comprises a follow-through period after
impact. Since the moment of impact of the golfer's club with the
golf ball is detected by microphone 18, and the golf swing does not
last for a great deal of time following the moment of impact, the
device can be adapted to continue to measure bodyweight
distribution for each golf swing a predetermined time after the
moment of impact of the golfer's club with the golf ball, for
example 1.5 seconds. Immediately after the weight distribution
measurement has been switched off at the end of the golfer's swing,
and the lights on the matrix bed 14 have been switched off, the
screen may display weight distribution results as measured for the
last golf swing taken.
[0250] Optionally, the golfer can choose (for example via the menu
on screen 10) to have his or her bodyweight distribution at the
address of the golf ball measured. The force transducers 16 and 17
will measure bodyweight distribution between the golfer's left toe
area, left heel area, right toe area and right heel area. The
golfer has the option, via use of the menu on screen 10, of having
the address position bodyweight distribution measured only, without
the need for a stroke, or else having this measurement taken
together with that of the proceeding swing (for either a golf
stroke or practice swing) associated with that address. Should the
golfer choose to have the address position bodyweight distribution
measured before the commencement of a swing, the data shown will be
from one particular time measurement or else an average over a
short time period. The golfer may wish to have an indication of a
period of time in which he or she should remain steady in his or
her address position for the address position bodyweight
distribution measurement, and he or she may receive this from the
device in the form of a countdown (the length of this can be
adjusted by the golfer if so desired) and/or a visual or audible
signal for the start and/or end of this period.
[0251] Once measurement is complete, the address bodyweight
distribution measurement data can be displayed on the screen and/or
mat via matrix bed of lights 14, and this data may be displayed
either on its own or in conjunction with instructional advice
and/or data for an expert golfer or golfers using the same club
intending to play the same type of stroke for use by the individual
using the device to potentially improve his or her bodyweight
distribution both through the respective feet in general and also
in the toe and heel areas of the respective feet at address of the
golf ball. An example set of results of an individual's address
position bodyweight distribution measurement are shown in FIG.
4a.
[0252] FIG. 4b shows the results of the device user's address
position bodyweight distribution shown in FIG. 4a together with
that of an expert golfer for the same type of chosen stroke. Also
shown in FIG. 4b is instructional advice given by the device for
the golfer to modify his address position bodyweight distribution
to a distribution resembling that of the expert golfer. The arrows
and/or instruction and/or data may be flashing to attract the
attention of the golfer. The golfer using the device has the
option, via the menu on screen 10 to have the address position
bodyweight distribution results shown as quadrant percentages, i.e.
the percentage of the total bodyweight taken by the left toe area,
left heel area, right toe area and right heel area. FIG. 4c shows
the results in quadrant percentage mode for the same measurements
as taken for FIG. 4b.
[0253] Descriptions of ideal bodyweight distributions and transfers
can be found in "Ultimate Golf Techniques" by Malcolm Campbell
(Dorling Kindersley Limited) and Golf Magazine, April 1998, pages
142 to 143.
[0254] For use of the device for golf swing bodyweight distribution
measurement, information including such data as gender, height,
build, weight, golfing handicap, swing tempo, clubhead speed at
impact with a driver, club selection, club shaft flex and type of
intended stroke (e.g. full power, low trajectory straight ball
flight stroke) may be input by the golfer by use of the menu on
screen 10 before a golf stroke or practice swing commences. Also,
the countdown period and/or start and/or finish time of measurement
may be selected. Pressure sensing devices 16 and 17 will measure
bodyweight distribution both through the respective feet in general
and also in the toe and heel areas of the respective feet. This
bodyweight distribution measurement may be chosen to be carried out
either in golf ball striking or practice swing mode by choosing
from options on the menu on screen 10. Once measurement is
complete, the bodyweight distribution measurement data can be
displayed on the screen and/or mat via matrix bed of lights 14, and
this data may be displayed either on its own or in conjunction with
instructional advice and/or data of an expert golfer or golfers of
the closest match to the golfer using the device in terms of the
data input by the golfer using the device, using the same club
intending to play the same type of stroke for use by the individual
using the device to potentially improve his or her bodyweight
distribution through the respective feet both at address of the
golf ball and during the golf swing.
[0255] An example graph of bodyweight distribution of a right
handed male golfer during a golf swing playing a golf stroke is
shown in FIG. 5a, in which the x axis shows the time elapsed. In
this graph, also displayed is the bodyweight distribution and
transfer information for an expert golfer with the nearest match
from a selection of input data including but not limited to gender,
height, build, weight, swing tempo, club selection, clubhead speed
at impact with a driver and type of stroke. The y axis is a weight
distribution ratio scale, with "0% R:100% L" at one extreme
representing a distribution with all the golfer's weight on his
left foot, and "100% R:0% L" at the other extreme representing a
distribution with all the golfer's weight on his right foot. Should
the individual be using this measurement feature of the device in
practice swing mode, there will of course be no golf ball impact
indication in the graphs. Should the individual be using the device
in golf ball striking mode and should he or she miss the ball, or
if the impact of the club with the ball is so faint that the
microphone does not detect it, the bodyweight distribution
measurement graph for the swing will still be shown, however
without the golf ball impact indication. Should the individual
using the device not commence his swing at the same time as
bodyweight distribution measurement commences, the computer program
will provide a best fit curve for the expert golfer's bodyweight
distribution curve overlaid on the device user's curve. For
example, if the individual using the device commences his swing
with a significant delay after the bodyweight distribution
measurement has commenced, there will be a significant portion of
address-only bodyweight distribution before the swing curve
commences. The computer program will recognise this and either
remove the address-only portion of the curve and start the device
user's and expert golfer's curve in a synchronised form, or else
the program can leave the address-only portion in, and best-fit the
expert golfer's curve to start after the same or similar delay
period.
[0256] It can be seen from FIG. 5a that the golfer using the device
has too much of his bodyweight on his left foot at address of the
golf ball and does not transfer enough of his bodyweight to his
right foot during the backswing as compared with the expert golfer.
At impact of the golf club with the golf ball, the golfer has too
much of his bodyweight distribution onto his left foot.
[0257] The golfer can, if so desired, repeat his or her golf swing
and use the graphs as a training device for improving bodyweight
distributions and transfers during his or her address position
and/or golf swing. The results can be printed and/or saved for
future reference.
[0258] The golfer has means, optionally, via screen 10, to set the
x axis to bodyweight distribution instead, so that the graph can
more easily be interpreted whereby bodyweight distribution
information is from left to right, as per a golfer's feet during
the golf ball address and swing. The swing results shown in FIG. 5a
are shown in this axis form in FIG. 5b. Additional information can
be marked on the graph, for example to clarify which part represent
the address, which part represents the backswing, which part
represents the foreswing, which part represents the moment of
impact, and which part represents the follow through.
[0259] Once this graph is displayed, automated instruction can be
provided by the device as to what aspects of his or her bodyweight
distribution and/or transfers can be improved to be the same as or
more like that or those of an expert golfer with an ideally
balanced golf swing. This instruction can be in the form of text on
the screen and/or a computer generated voice and/or arrows and/or
animation on the graph and/or display of an instructional video, or
by some other similar means. For the golf swing made by the golfer
using the device producing the graph shown in FIG. 5b, an example
of a text-based instruction post-swing is shown in FIG. 5c. The
arrows and/or instructional text and/or graphs shown in FIG. 5c can
be flashing to attract the attention of the individual using the
device.
[0260] It will be noted that a young or inexperienced golfer using
the system may try to effect a transfer of bodyweight onto his or
her rear foot, relative to the target, during the backswing and/or
forward foot relative to the target during the foreswing by a
swaying motion. This type of weight transfer can be detected by the
training device, and immediate guidance and instruction can be
provided to the golfer. Referring to FIG. 6, there is seen a
diagram of a guidance element of the system, for example located on
the face of the pedestal 19 and/or provided on the screen 10,
conveniently facing the golfer, which is an instructional diagram
explaining to the golfer in simple terms the correct and incorrect
means of transferring bodyweight during the golf swing. Such a
guidance element explains to the golfer that the correct motion is
to transfer bodyweight during the backswing by a turning motion of
the shoulders and upper body (the so-called coil), and the
incorrect motion during the backswing is via a swaying motion of
the hips and upper body, with reduced or no turn of the shoulder
and upper body (less coil). The training device is therefore able
to offer specific advice to the golfer tailored according to the
golfer's actual swing as determined from the measurements taken.
The device can also tailor the advice based on the golfer's data,
for example so that different advice can be offered according to
the golfer's experience, gender, age or handicap.
[0261] The golfer, when using the device in golf ball striking
mode, can also select the option (for example via screen 10) to
have further measurement taken and displayed during the time around
impact of the golf club with the golf ball. In addition to, or
instead of the above diagrams and graphs, an arrow representation
can be provided showing the golfer's measured bodyweight
distribution and/or transfer between the right toe area, right heel
area, left toe area and left heel area in a short period of time
prior to, during, and after the moment of impact of the golf club
with the golf ball during the golfer's swing. The moment of impact
is known from the sound detected by microphone 18. Should the
individual using the device in this mode miss the golf ball, or if
the impact of the club with the ball is so faint that the
microphone does not detect it, during the measurement period, the
device may not be able to provide an accurate impact area
measurement. The device may notify the individual of this via text
on the screen, computer generated voice or some other means, in
which case it may instruct him or her to attempt another stroke if
so desired.
[0262] FIG. 7a shows an example arrow representation of a golfer
using the device in this mode together with an expert golfer. It
will be seen in this example in FIG. 7a that the right-handed
golfer using the device, in the short period just prior to, during
and just after the moment of impact, as compared to the expert
right-handed golfer, has initiated the general transfer of
bodyweight from his right side correctly (since the arrow for the
golfer using the device starts from the same place as the arrow for
the expert golfer), and generally from his right foot to his left
foot to the correct degree (since the arrow for the golfer using
the device is of the same width and length as the expert golfer),
however he has transferred too much of his bodyweight onto his left
toe area (as also indicated by the arrow), rather than onto the
left heel area, as was done by the expert golfer. It can be seen
that the expert golfer has transferred his bodyweight from his
right foot (with the bodyweight distribution in the right foot
being roughly equal across the heel and toe areas) towards the left
foot, and more specifically to a bodyweight distribution across the
left foot biased towards the heel area. FIG. 7b shows the same data
as shown in FIG. 7a but with instruction.
[0263] FIG. 7c shows another example arrow representation of a
golfer using the device in this mode together with an expert
golfer. This representation is for the same golf stroke as was used
to generate the graphs in FIGS. 5a, 5b and 5c. It will be seen in
this example in FIG. 7c that the right-handed golfer using the
device, in the short period just prior to, during and just after
the moment of impact, as compared to the expert right-handed
golfer, has initiated the general transfer of bodyweight with too
much of his bodyweight on his left side (and consequently not
enough bodyweight on his right side), since the arrow for the
golfer using the device starts at a point well to the left of the
right foot. Also, since the arrow for the golfer using the device
is fatter and ends further left than for the expert golfer, the
golfer's general bodyweight distribution is further to the left.
Additionally, as also indicated by the arrow, the golfer
transferred too much of his bodyweight onto his left toe area,
rather than onto the left heel area, as was done by the expert
golfer. FIG. 7d shows the same data as shown in FIG. 7c but with
instruction.
[0264] In a similar fashion to the instruction given by the device
to the golfer shown in FIG. 5c, arrows, text and/or a computer
generated voice or similar can instruct the golfer using the device
how to improve his bodyweight distribution and/or transfer during
the time around the impact of the golf club with the golf ball.
Examples of this are shown in FIG. 7b, FIG. 7d, FIG. 8b and FIG.
8c. The text, arrows, and/or instructional arrow can be flashing to
attract the attention of the individual using the device.
[0265] In another example, FIG. 8c shows a graph for the entire
swing and arrows for the impact area made by a right-handed golfer
striking a golf ball using the device, in which a swing with a
so-called "reverse-pivot" is used, i.e. bodyweight is transferred
onto the forward foot (the left foot) relative to the target during
the backswing and onto the rear foot (the right foot) relative to
the target during the foreswing. FIG. 8c also shows an example of
instruction given to the golfer.
[0266] As described above, a device is provided for indicating
optimal clubface alignment and positioning and foot placement
positions and angles for a wide range of golfers to make practice
swings and play golf strokes using a wide range of golf clubs and
training aids or clubs. The device also measures and indicates to
the golfer optimal bodyweight distribution and bodyweight transfers
during the address position and golf swing. The system comprises a
base unit containing a matrix bed of lights, beneath a translucent
mat, which illuminate to form a line behind the golf ball to
indicate correct clubface alignment and positioning and
footprint-shaped sets of lights to indicate optimal foot placement
positions and angles. The information given by the lighting depends
on data entered into the computer by the golfer including gender,
height, build, right or left handedness, shoe size, club selection
and type of stroke to be played, as well as the position of the
golf ball on one of the golf ball striking areas or tees of the
mat, which can be either from a known or selected fixed position or
else the golf ball position can be elucidated by a weight sensor.
Also, two force transducers, each with heel and toe components,
beneath the mat measure bodyweight distribution and transfers
between the respective feet during address of the golf ball and all
of the swing. Graphs of bodyweight distribution and transfer
information of ideally balanced expert golfers playing golf strokes
using a range of golf clubs using a range of swing tempos and
playing a range of types of golf strokes are provided for use by
the golfer in comparing with his or her data for use in training
his or her golf swing. Also measured and displayed are the
bodyweight distribution through the right toe area, right heel
area, left toe area and left heel area at the address position and
also bodyweight distribution and transfer through the right toe
area, right heel area, left toe area and left heel area through the
impact area for the individual using the device as well as a range
of expert golfers using a range of golf clubs. Instruction is given
by the device to highlight to the golfer what he or she needs to do
with his or her bodyweight distribution and transfers in general
between the two feet during his or her full swing and also between
the toe and heel areas of his or her two feet during both the
address position and the impact area in order to be more like an
ideally balanced expert golfer. Variations and modifications of
this are described above.
[0267] The functionality of the computer 13 (or similar calculating
or operating device) described above can be implemented in hardware
or software, or a combination thereof. A program for use in
directing the computer can be stored on a computer-readable medium
or could, for example, be embodied in a signal such as a
downloadable data signal provided from an Internet website.
Examples of devices which could have hardware and/or software of
one or more aspects of the present invention added to them to
improve the usefulness of these devices include, but are not
limited to, golf simulators and computerised video overlay golf
tuition systems. The appended claims are to be interpreted as
covering a computer or operating program by itself, or as a record
on a carrier, or as a signal, or in any other form.
[0268] It should be noted that the appended claims are also
intended to cover a device used in the practice swing mode
described above in which no actual ball is employed during use,
either at address or during the stroke.
[0269] It will be appreciated that embodiments of the present
invention have been described specifically in relation to a golf
training aid. It is also possible that the same or equivalent
principles are applied to provide a training aid for use with other
sports. For example, the principles can be applied to provide a
training aid for improving a snooker player's stance, or for
improving the stance and weight distribution of a baseball/softball
pitcher.
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