U.S. patent application number 12/799517 was filed with the patent office on 2011-09-01 for smart capacitive detection sensor system.
Invention is credited to Wilbert Quinc Murdock, Philip Alister Williams.
Application Number | 20110212757 12/799517 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42669586 |
Filed Date | 2011-09-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110212757 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Murdock; Wilbert Quinc ; et
al. |
September 1, 2011 |
Smart capacitive detection sensor system
Abstract
An apparatus that wirelessly integrates actual golf equipment
with a computer to allow players to engage in a competitive real
sport such as golf. This system includes motion sensing devices,
smart golf clubs, and golf ball receptacles all containing circuits
and contact sensors coupled with signal processing and radio
frequency transmitter circuitry to thereby wirelessly communicate
game performance information to a remote receiver-computer. This
invention uses the electric field of a capacitive plate for sensing
object proximity, motion and composition. More particularly, the
invention relates to a system wherein an objects physical geometry,
spatial orientation and motion, and an environmental change of
state can be detected via a change in the dielectric of a capacitor
array. This invention also uses the coupling of sports equipment
and a computer to communicate information wirelessly to a personal
computer and thereby, if desired, to the internet. An individual
player may opt to play solo or practice to improve basic golfing
techniques. The system employs specially developed computer
software to process player performance data, control game play,
communicate game information, generate and control visual
simulations, and display player performance information.
Inventors: |
Murdock; Wilbert Quinc;
(Bronx, NY) ; Williams; Philip Alister; (Salt
Point, NY) |
Family ID: |
42669586 |
Appl. No.: |
12/799517 |
Filed: |
April 26, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09570233 |
May 12, 2000 |
7789742 |
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12799517 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 24/0021 20130101;
A63F 9/24 20130101; A63F 13/212 20140902; A61B 5/745 20130101; A63B
57/405 20151001; A63B 71/0616 20130101; A63B 2071/065 20130101;
A63B 57/357 20151001; A61B 5/0205 20130101; A63B 24/0075 20130101;
A63B 69/362 20200801; A63B 69/3655 20130101; A63B 2220/16 20130101;
A63F 13/42 20140902; G06Q 10/0639 20130101; A63B 24/0084 20130101;
A63B 69/3688 20130101; A63B 2220/13 20130101; A63F 13/795 20140902;
G01S 19/19 20130101; A63B 2220/62 20130101; A63B 57/40 20151001;
A61B 5/744 20130101; A63B 2024/0056 20130101; A63B 2225/20
20130101; A63F 13/79 20140902; A63B 24/0062 20130101; A63B 71/0622
20130101; A63B 2220/53 20130101; A61B 5/11 20130101; A61B 5/1127
20130101; A63B 2220/801 20130101; A63F 13/573 20140902; A63F 13/211
20140902; A63F 13/812 20140902; A63F 13/87 20140902; A61B 5/1121
20130101; A61B 5/6895 20130101; A63B 67/02 20130101; A63B 2225/50
20130101; A63B 69/3614 20130101; A63B 2024/0068 20130101; A63B
2220/833 20130101; A63F 13/21 20140901; A63B 71/0686 20130101; A63B
2071/063 20130101; G01S 19/26 20130101; G09B 19/0038 20130101; A63B
24/0006 20130101; A63B 69/3685 20130101; A63F 13/245 20140902; A63B
69/3676 20130101; G16H 40/67 20180101; A61B 5/1128 20130101; A61B
2503/10 20130101; A63B 2220/00 20130101; A63B 2220/30 20130101;
A63F 13/218 20140902; A63F 13/35 20140902; A63B 69/3632 20130101;
A63B 69/36 20130101; A63B 53/04 20130101; A63B 69/3658 20130101;
A63B 2220/89 20130101; A63B 63/00 20130101; A63B 2220/803 20130101;
A63B 2024/0034 20130101; A63B 71/0669 20130101; A63B 2024/0037
20130101; A63B 2071/0647 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/2 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A golf club or sports implement motion sensing and direction
detection device, comprising: a plurality of motion sensors
uniformity distributed upon or proximate to a device surface area;
and a communications circuit connected with a plurality of sensors
to transmit an electromagnetic signal upon one or more of the
sensors detecting club motion over the device. means for acquiring
information of a ball-club contact event from a first array of
sensors and transmitting these data via a first communications link
wirelessly to a receiver for analysis by a first computer; means
for detecting digitally coded wireless transmissions from data
derived from data acquired from said first communications link and
said first and second contact sensor arrays encompassing a golf
ball receptacle, golf club spatial orientation device, or a golf
club motion sensing plate, remotely connected to said means for
acquiring information of a ball-club contact event from a first
array of sensors and transmitting these data via a first
communications link wirelessly to a receiver for analysis by a
first computer; and means for a second computer programmed to
communicate with one or more said first computers. a third
communications link for transmitting data derived from data
acquired by said first computers to said second computer. a fourth
communications link for transmitting data derived from said data
acquired by said second computer to said first computers. wherein
said second computer is programmed to cause the transfer of local
player events from a remote player site to one or more remote
player sites for presentation to said remote players, notify
players when it is their respective turn to play, measure player
time delays, disconnect remote player sites with excessive time
delays, and conduct an internet search for other opponents if the
remaining players wish to continue to play. at each remote player
site, the computer under the control of the golfing system program,
monitors and controls initialization and the sequential play of the
golf game, or alternatively, the individual player practice
session, electrically connected to said means for detecting
digitally coded wireless transmissions from data derived from data
acquired from said first communications link and said first and
second contact sensor arrays encompassing a golf ball receptacle,
golf club spatial orientation device, or a golf club motion sensing
plate.
2. The golf club motion sensing and direction detection device of
claim 1, wherein the plurality of motion detecting sensors comprise
a plurality of capacitors connected in a capacitor array and
adapted to create electromagnetic fields at an upper surface of the
device upon energizing with a high frequency alternating
voltage.
3. The golf club motion sensing and direction detection device of
claim 2, wherein the sensing device is a multilayer plate including
at least one continuous conductive layer and a plurality of
electrically isolated conductive platelets spaced from and located
above at least one continuous conductive layer with a dielectric
sandwiched between them to form the motion sensors.
4. The golf club motion sensing and direction detection device of
either 2 or 3, further comprising an array of comparators connected
to each one of the sensors.
5. The golf club motion sensing and direction detection device
according to claim 1, wherein the communications circuit includes a
wireless electromagnetic signal transmitting circuit.
6. The golf club motion sensing and direction detection device of
claim 5, wherein the wireless electromagnetic signal transmitting
circuit is a radio frequency transmitter.
7. The smart capacitive detective sensor system as recited in claim
1, further comprising: a top motion plate, bottom motion plate,
homogenous electrically conductive interior surface, capacitive
platelet, golf club motion plate capacitive network, capacitive
components of the motion sensor plate, network of electrical
comparator amplifiers, multiplexer, transmitter, antenna, spatial
orientation device golf club motion sensor, for sensing varying
characteristics of capacitance representing the velocity, angle,
and proximity of a golf club relative to the surface of the device
and or spatial orientation devices to detect the rotational
orientation, translational path, and directional orientation of
said club-head, remotely connected to said wireless signal receiver
and computer.
8. The smart capacitive detective sensor system in accordance with
claim 1, wherein said means for detecting digitally coded wireless
transmissions from data derived from data acquired from said first
communications link and said first and second sensor arrays
encompassing a golf club spatial orientation device, or a golf club
motion sensing plate comprises a computer, wireless signal
receiver, a golf club, golf ball receptacle, golf club motion
sensor plate, microprocessor wireless signal receiver and
computer.
9. An apparatus comprising: a first electrode; a second electrode
located at a distance from the first electrode, the second
electrode forming a capacitive element with the first electrode,
wherein a gap is present between the first and second electrodes,
wherein each of the first electrode and second electrode partially
surrounds a member subject to accumulation of frozen material, such
that the gap is formed between edges of the first and second
electrodes along lateral sides of the member; an electric field
sensor having an electrode terminal coupled to the first electrode
and providing an electric field output value representative of an
amount of frozen material located in the gap between the first and
second electrodes; a first insulating layer around the member,
between the member and the first electrode and between the member
and the second electrode; and a conductive layer around the member,
between the member and the first insulator, wherein a shield output
of the electric field sensor is coupled to the conductive
layer.
10. The apparatus of claim 7, further comprising: a coaxial cable,
wherein the electrode terminal is coupled to the first electrode
via a center conductor of the coaxial cable and wherein a shield
output of the electric field sensor is coupled to the conductive
layer via an outer shield of the coaxial cable.
11. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the shield output maintains
an approximately zero voltage differential between the center
conductor and the outer shield.
12. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the second electrode is
subject to frost accumulation and the first electrode at least
partially surrounds the second electrode.
13. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the member is at least a
portion of a cooling element.
14. The apparatus of claim 7, further comprising a refrigerator or
air conditioner, the refrigerator or air conditioner comprising the
first electrode, the second electrode, the electric field sensor,
the first insulating layer, and the first conductive layer.
15. The apparatus of claim 7, further comprising a transportation
device, the transportation device comprising the first electrode,
the second electrode, the electric field sensor, the first
insulating layer, and the first conductive layer.
16. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the transportation device
comprises a window, the window comprising the first and second
electrodes.
17. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the first and second
electrodes each comprises indium titanium oxide.
18. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the transportation device
comprises a wing, the wing comprising the first and second
electrodes.
19. An apparatus comprising: a member subject to accumulation of
frozen material; a first electrode at least partially surrounding
the member; a second electrode at least partially surrounding the
member and located at a first distance from the first electrode,
the second electrode forming a capacitive element with the first
electrode; an electric field sensor having a first electrode
terminal coupled to the first electrode and providing an electric
field output value representative of an amount of frozen material
formed on the member between the first and second electrodes; and a
third electrode at least partially surrounding the member and
located at a second distance from the first electrode, the first
electrode between the second and third electrodes; wherein the
electric field sensor comprises a second electrode terminal coupled
to the second electrode and a third electrode terminal coupled to
the third electrode, and wherein when the first electrode terminal
is enabled, the electric field output value is representative of an
amount of frozen material formed on the member between the second
and third electrodes.
20. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein when the first electrode
terminal is enabled, the second electrode terminal couples the
second electrode to ground and the third electrode terminal couples
the third electrode to ground.
21. The apparatus of claim 17, further comprising: a first
insulating layer at least partially surrounding the first
electrode; a first conductive layer at least partially surrounding
the first insulating layer, wherein a shield output of the electric
field sensor is coupled to the first conductive layer; second
insulating layer at least partially surrounding the second
electrode; and a second conductive layer at least partially
surrounding the second insulating layer, wherein the shield output
of the electric field sensor is coupled to the second conductive
layer.
22. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the first electrode, first
insulating layer, and first conductive layer form concentric rings,
and wherein the second electrode, second insulating layer, and
second conductive layer form concentric rings.
23. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the member subject to frozen
material accumulation comprises a cooling element of a refrigerator
or air conditioner.
24. An apparatus comprising: a member subject to accumulation of
frozen material; a first electrode at least partially surrounding
the member; a second electrode at least partially surrounding the
member and located at a first distance from the first electrode,
the second electrode forming a capacitive element with the first
electrode; an electric field sensor having a first electrode
terminal coupled to the first electrode and providing an electric
field output value representative of an amount of frozen material
formed on the member between the first and second electrodes; a
first insulating layer at least partially surrounding the first
electrode; a first conductive layer at least partially surrounding
the first insulating layer, wherein a shield output of the electric
field sensor is coupled to the first conductive layer; a second
insulating layer at least partially surrounding the second
electrode; and a second conductive layer at least partially
surrounding the second insulating layer, wherein the shield output
of the electric field sensor is coupled to the second conductive
layer; a third insulating layer at least partially surrounding the
member, the third insulating layer between the member and the first
electrode; a third conductive layer at least partially surrounding
the member, the third conductive layer between the member and the
third insulating layer, wherein the shield output of the electric
field sensor is coupled to the third conductive layer; a fourth
insulating layer at least partially surrounding the member, the
fourth insulating layer between the member and the third conductive
layer; a fifth insulating layer at least partially surrounding the
member, the fifth insulating layer between the member and the
second electrode; a fourth conductive layer at least partially
surrounding the member, the fourth conductive layer between the
member and the fifth insulating layer, wherein the shield output of
the electric field sensor is coupled to the fourth conductive
layer; and a sixth insulating layer at least partially surrounding
the member, the sixth insulating layer between the member and the
fourth conductive layer.
25. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the first electrode, first
insulating layer, and first conductive layer form concentric rings,
and wherein the second electrode, second insulating layer, and
second conductive layer form concentric rings.
26. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the member subject to frozen
material accumulation comprises a cooling element of a refrigerator
or air conditioner.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] Priority is claimed from U.S. Provisional Ser. No.
60/13,722, filed May 12, 1999 for all subject matter common hereto.
That provisional application is incorporated by reference herein.
This is a divisional application and the parent application for
this divisional application is, Ser. No. 09/570,233.
REFERENCE TO MICROFICHE APPENDIX
[0002] A microfiche appendix including 1 microfiche with 27 frames
accompanies and forms a part of this application.
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0003] This invention uses the electric field of a capacitive plate
for sensing object proximity, motion and composition. More
particularly, the invention relates to a system wherein an objects
physical geometry, spatial orientation and motion, and an
environmental change of state can be detected via a change in the
dielectric of a capacitor array. This invention also uses the
coupling of sports equipment and a computer to communicate
information wirelessly to a personal computer and thereby, if
desired, to the internet.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Resolving an object's direction post impact is a problem
that has been addressed in the literature often with great
complexity. In addition, few high-tech solutions have been employed
but may be unsuitable for use under repeated impact of the object
and impact surface.
[0005] A number of patented devices embody various object sensor
contacts or implement swing sensing components. Typically, these
devices display information related to a player's swing and
accuracy in hitting a golf ball. In certain of these, the
information is displayed and signaled by the golf club itself in
the form of a small visual readout or an audible sound. One such
device contains an array of mechanically depressible pins on the
face of the golf club. When the ball is struck by the club, the
pins are physically depressed in a pattern to inform the player of
the location on the club face where contact with the ball occurred,
however, it does fails to predict the ball's subsequent trajectory.
Another device uses a light emission and reflection detection
technique to provide information to a player, displayed on the
club, regarding the alignment of the golf ball with the preferred
location on the golf club face.
[0006] Also, numerous conventional computer golf game software
packages and video games use a variety of unrealistic techniques to
emulate the striking of a golf ball with a club. None of these
cooperates with actual golf clubs, actual golf ball target or cup
receptacles, or a swing detector that senses the actual golf
stroke.
[0007] It is desirable to obtain some insight into directionality
of an object resulting from the impact of a golf club or sports
implement and to remotely communicate actual player performance
location, whereby more sophisticated analysis and prediction
possibilities are realizable via computer technology and
state-of-the-art display techniques. Further, it is also desirable
to use such performance information in an expanded capacity to
provide interactive competitive play among numerous players in
locations remote from each other.
[0008] It is also desirable to sense and discern proximal object
shape factors, environmental changes, material composition, ambient
conditions and perturbations.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0009] This invention relates to a system that interconnects a golf
club or other sports implements to a computer. In a preferred
embodiment the computer is coupled wirelessly to a capacitive
plate, a receptacle or a swing sensing component. A single player
may play without an opponent to practice and improve basic sports
skills using a computer and display to track their performance.
Further, the invention, with components summarized below, uses the
electric field of a capacitive plate array for sensing object
proximity, motion and composition. More particularly, the invention
relates to a system wherein an objects physical geometry, spatial
orientation and motion, and an environmental change of state can be
detected via a change in the dielectric of each capacitor in the
array.
[0010] The system application is unlimited. Much of this system can
be used not only for golf competition locally and remotely via the
Internet, but for other sports and applications as well. Sports
implements other than golf clubs can be used with this invention to
determine proximity, spatial orientation, directionality, geometry,
and material composition. This invention can be used for training
purposes, rehab, or for interactive internet competition.
[0011] The technology can be used for training, competition, and
the improvement of player reflexes and coordination. With little or
no modification, the technology also has applications in medicine,
particularly physical therapy.
1. Smart Golf Club
[0012] A wireless golf club is constructed to contain or
alternatively, a standard golf club is modified to contain, a
multiple sensor or transducer array located on the club head at the
face or hitting surface. Upon impact of the head of the club with a
golf ball, the impacted sensors produce detectable variances
representing the magnitude and duration of the club-ball impact
force and the proximate location of such contact relative to the
preferred location, the "sweet spot", on the face of the club head.
The variances are electronically processed into digitally coded
information and remotely transmitted by an electrical communication
circuit either contained within or attached to the golf club.
[0013] In each golf club device and golf ball receptacle device
according to this invention, in a preferred embodiment the
transducers are or include piezoactive elements and or pressure
sensors. As used herein, "piezoactive" includes piezoelectric and
piezoresistive components. Piezoactive components are defined as
components the electrical properties of which, when the component
is subjected to physical force, vary.
[0014] The smart golf club system uses biofeedback to create an
intelligent golf training and entertainment system. The smart golf
club system is a diagnostic and analysis tool used to improve a
player's skills by relatively instantaneous visual cues and
acoustic feedback with little or no human intervention. The smart
golf club system takes the generated data and reconstructs it into
a useful visual format that can be presented in a variety of ways
including 3-dimensional animation. The smart golf club system
integrated circuit or circuits can be located anywhere within the
club including the head and or shaft.
[0015] The smart golf club has a means via its built in
microcontroller to process, analyze, store, hitting pattern data
and transmit it to the computer and or the Internet for further
analysis. In playback mode the smart golf club system memorizes how
many times each sensor was hit. This provides the golfer
information about his or her hitting pattern. Using a computer
algorithm, we can analyze and calculate a hitting pattern and
having a personalized sports hitting detection system for each
athlete.
2. Golf Ball Receptacle
[0016] A ball receptacle has an open end to receive a golf ball and
contains a transducer located so as to sense the ball entering
receptacle. Upon impact with the golf ball, the sensor produces a
detectable variance representing impact with the ball. The variance
is electronically processed into display coded information and
remotely transmitted by an electrical communication circuit. In one
preferred embodiment the communication circuit is contained within
the receptacle. Preferably the communicate circuit for the
receptacle is a radio frequency transmitter. The receptacle can
either be designed for indoor use or can be a cup in an actual
green with the communication circuit housed in the cup or
elsewhere.
[0017] In each of the golf club device and golf ball receptacle
device according to this invention, in a preferred embodiment the
transducers are or include piezoactive elements. As used herein,
"piezoactive" includes piezoelectric and piezoresistive components.
Piezoactive components are defined as components the electrical
properties of which, when the component is subjected to physical
force, vary.
3. Golf Club Motion Sensor Plate
[0018] A golf club swing motion sensing device contains an array of
uniformly distributed sensing transducers upon or proximate to the
device surface. This motion sensing device may be formed as a mat
or a plate or other substantially flat surface from which a golf
ball is hit. The transducers produce detectable varying
characteristics such as capacitance representing the velocity,
angle, and proximity of a golf club relative to the surface of the
device. The variances are electronically processed into digitally
coded information and remotely transmitted by an electrical
communication circuit contained within or electronically connected
to the device.
4. Wireless Signal Receiver and Computer
[0019] At each remote player site, wireless radio frequency
equipment receives the digitally coded transmitted signals from the
golf club, the golf ball receptacle, and the club swing motion
sensing device. The signals are demodulated and processed into
serial binary data suitable for communications to the computer via
either serial or parallel ports. As the game progresses, the
computer under the control of the golfing software, monitors and
directs the flow of communications between the players via the
internet and displays the game simulations and performance
information.
5. Computer Golfing Software System
[0020] At each remote player site, a computer under the control of
the golfing software, monitors and controls the sequential play of
the game and interacts with the player at the site and also
competing players at the other remote sites via the internet. The
software system generates the game simulations for display and
tracks each player's performance as the game progresses.
[0021] The above and further features and advantages of the
invention will be better understood with reference to the
accompanying drawings and the following detailed description of
preferred embodiment.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic illustration of components of a
computer implemented golf system according to this invention.
[0023] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a golf club with sensors and
circuitry and used in the computer implemented system of FIG.
1.
[0024] FIG. 3 is front elevation view of the golf club head of FIG.
2, and shows three sensors located at the face of the club
head.
[0025] FIG. 3 A is a front plan view of a further embodiment of a
club head for use with the computer implemented golf system of FIG.
1.
[0026] FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic front plan view of a putter with a
club head and circuitry forming a further, alternative embodiment
of a club for use with the computer implemented system of FIG.
1.
[0027] FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of a club head
electronics installation for use with the club heads of FIGS.
2-4.
[0028] FIG. 6A is a front elevation view of a golf ball receptacle
for use with the system of FIG. 1.
[0029] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view along the lines B-B of
FIG. 6A.
[0030] FIG. 6C is a fragmentary top plan view of the receptacle of
FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrating internal components of the
receptacle.
[0031] FIG. 7 is a top plan view of a golf ball sensing element
with three distinct activation areas for use in the receptacle of
FIGS. 6A-6C.
[0032] FIG. 8 is a schematic block diagram of a receptacle
electronics installation for communicating with the computer in a
computer implemented system according to FIG. 1.
[0033] FIGS. 9A-9D are diagrammatic illustrations of a golf club
motion or swing sensor plate for use with the system according to
FIG. 1.
[0034] FIG. 9E is a block diagram of electronics used in
association with the swing sensors plate of FIGS. 9A-9D.
[0035] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a computer installation for
use as the computer and information receiving interconnect of the
system of FIG. 1.
[0036] FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram of the software
operation of the computer of FIG. 10.
[0037] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrative of a portion of the
operation of the computer of FIG. 10 operating as indicated in the
block diagram of FIG. 11.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
1. Smart Golf Club
[0038] The smart golf club 20 has a head 40 and a shaft 42. As
shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the head 40 has a shaft opening 42, a
plurality of embedded contact sensors 46 (three are illustrated in
the preferred embodiment), and the internal electronics circuitry
48 including a wireless radio frequency transmitter (58 in FIG. 5).
As shown, at least one of the sensors 46 is located at or proximate
to the optimal location on a club face 47 for contact with the golf
ball, the "sweet spot" 49. The remaining two sensors are adjacent
and on either side of the sweet spot 49. The contact sensors may
be, but are not limited to sensors employing piezoactive type
transducers, specifically, either piezo-electric or piezo-resistive
transducers (similar, but is not limited to the Cooper Instruments
LPM 562).
[0039] In an alternative embodiment, FIG. 3A, three sensors 46 are
applied to the face of an adapted club by a Mylar tape or other
means 49. Again, the electronic circuitry is internal to the club
head 40 and connects to the sensors 46 by leads 27.
[0040] In a second alternative embodiment, to retrofit a standard
golf club, contact sensors 46 are part of an adapter 40 attached to
an ordinary club head as seen in FIG. 4 and wire connected to an
electronic circuitry 48 attached to the club shaft 42 or elsewhere
on the club.
[0041] A golf ball contacting any sensor 46 produces a detectable
variance indication the magnitude and duration of sensor-ball
impact. The variance may be a change in resistance of a
piezo-resistive transducer or a voltage change in the case of a
piezo-electric transducer. As shown in FIG. 5, the variance is
detected and amplified by an associated amplifier 52 and is the
input to an associated integration circuit 54, the output of which
represents the energy of the ball-club contact event. Connected to
the integration circuit 54, a microprocessor 56 is a multi-input
signal processing circuit (similar, but not limited to a Motorola
#68HCO5) having analog to digital signal converting circuits
(ADCs), one for each input channel, and a sequential digital signal
encoding circuit connected so as to convert the ADC outputs into a
time multiplexed serial digital data stream containing a
binary-coded word for each channel indicating the energy of the
associated sensor-ball impact event.
[0042] A radio frequency transmitting circuit 58 receives the
serial digital data from the microprocessor 56 and wirelessly
transmits the information via an internal antenna 60 to a receiver
26 (FIG. 1) for subsequent processing by the computer 28.
2. Golf Ball Receptacle
[0043] The golf ball receptacle 22 has a top 62 shaped to allow
entry of a golf ball, as shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C. The
receptacle has a contact sensor pad 64, shown in FIG. 7, containing
at least one contact sensor (three different activation areas 65,
66, and 67 are illustrated in the preferred embodiment), a ball
return mechanism 69 (FIG. 6B) and internal electronic circuitry 68
(FIG. 6B). The internal circuitry includes a wireless radio
frequency transmitter (not separately shown in FIGS. 6A, B and C).
As shown, the preferred embodiment has contact sensor pad 64
positioned within the receptacle 60 such that the center activation
area 66 aligns with the center of a ball entry 70. Additional
sensor activation area 65 and 67 are adjacent, one on either side
of the center area 66. In the preferred embodiment, of FIGS. 6A,
6B, and 6C, and like the sensor used at the face of the club, the
sensors may be, but are not limited to, sensors employing
piezo-active type transducers, specifically, either piezo-electric
or piezo-transducers.
[0044] A golf ball entering the receptacle 60 and containing the
sensor pad 65, 66 or 67 produces a detectable variance indicating
the ball entry event. The variance may be a change in resistance in
the case of a piezo-resistive transducer (similar, but not limited
to Cooper Instruments LPM 562) or a voltage change in the case of a
piezo-electric transducer. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the variance
is detected and amplified by an associated amplifier 71. The
amplified signal then is input to a microprocessor 72 having an
analog to digital signal converting circuit (ADC) and a digital
signal encoding circuit connected so as to convert the ADC output
representing the sensors signals into a serial digital data stream
containing a binary coded word indicating the sensor-ball contact
event. The microprocessor 72 may be the same or similar to the
microprocessor 56 of the golf club electronics. A radio frequency
transmitter circuit 74 receives the serial digital data from the
microprocessor 72 and wirelessly transmit' the information via an
internal antenna 76 to the receiver 26 (FIG. 1) for subsequent
processing by the computer 28.
[0045] The ball return mechanism 68 can be simple as a back plate
80 located to be engaged by a golf ball entering the receptacle 22
and supported and biased by a spring or springs 82 to eject the
ball. Other known ejection devices, similar to those used in pin
ball machines and either mechanically or even electrically
activated, can be used to improve the effect if desired.
[0046] The receptacle configuration is susceptible to much
variation. The receptacle illustrated and described above is well
suited to indoor use, on carpet for example. It is clear, however,
that an actual cup, installed in an actual green, with real or
synthetic grass, can be similarly equipped.
3. Golf Club Motion Sensor Plate
[0047] The golf club motion sensor plate 80 having a top motion
plate 82 and a bottom motion plate 84 is diagrammatically shown in
FIGS. 9A-D, wherein the top motion plate 82 contains a plurality of
capacitor-forming electrically isolated platelets 83 (twelve
platelets are illustrated in this exemplary preferred embodiment).
They are evenly distributed at or just below the top plate's
exterior upper surface 82. The bottom plate 84 has a homogenous
electrically conductive interior surface 85 underlying the
platelets 83. Each capacitive platelet 83 contained in the top
motion plate 82 forms a capacitive component when the top and
bottom motion plates are vertically closely spaced to form the golf
club motion sensor plate. A suitable insulator may be sandwiched
between the two plates. The structure is adhesively or otherwise
mechanically joined and it may be covered or coated as desired. The
result is a golf club motion sensor plate 80 containing a capacitor
matrix (a 3.times.4 capacitor matrix is illustrated in the
preferred embodiment0. The capacitive components 83 are connected
to form a capacitive network 88 as is indicated in FIG. 9E.
[0048] Applying an energizing high frequency alternating electrical
signal having a frequency in the range from 100 MHz to 200 MHz from
an oscillator 87 to the golf club motion plate capacitive network
88 produces an electromagnetic field above the surface of each
platelet 83 of the capacitive components of the motion sensor plate
80. Any object, including a golf club, passing near the surface of
the energized motion plate will cause a perturbation of the
electromagnetic field as illustrated by the sample possible
pathways 90 across the plate in FIG. 9C. A network 92 of electrical
comparator amplifiers (FIG. 9B) is connected to the capacitor
network. The comparators of the network 92 are connected one to one
with the capacitive elements of the capacitive network 88. The
comparators of the network 88 detect voltage variations occasioned
by electromagnetic field disturbance due to a golf cub moving over
certain of the capacitive elements of the motion plate. Each
different golf club motion over the energized motion plate will
produce a uniquely identifiable signal from the comparator
amplifier network. There are a variety of known proximity sensors
that could be gathered together in an array like that of the
platelets 83 to serve as the transducer portion of the golf club
motion detector.
[0049] The electrical signal from the comparative amplifier network
92 is applied to an analog to digital signal converter 94 (ADC) and
the ADC digitized output signal is converted into a serial digital
data stream by a multiplexer 96. This data identifies each platelet
having had its field disturbed. The serial digital data can be
input directly by wire from a multiplexer 96 to the computer 28
located at the site of the golf player and golf club motion sensor
plate 80, or as in the preferred embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 1,
the serial data can be transmitted 100 and an antenna 102, included
in the golf club motion electronic transmitter communication
circuitry from FIG. 1.
[0050] The computer 28, under the control of the golf system
software, will analyze the serial digital club motion signal,
recognize from the transmitted signals the platelets 83 over which
the club head passed and display the golf club swing motion.
4. Wireless Signal Receiver and Computer
[0051] At each player site, a wireless radio frequency signal
receiver 26 is connected to the computer 28 by either the serial
(USB) or parallel computer ports, as shown in the functional block
diagram, FIG. 10. The wireless signal receiver 26 detects digitally
coded radio frequency transmissions from the communication circuit
associated with any of a smart golf club 20, a golf ball receptacle
22, or a golf club motion sensing plate 24, as shown in FIG. 1. The
received transmission are demodulated by the RF receiver circuitry
122 (FIG. 10) connected to a microprocessor 124, which converts the
demodulated data signal to serial binary coded data suitable for
communications to a computer 28. The computer 28, under the control
of the internally installed golf system software program, monitors
and directs the flow of communications between remotely located
players via the internet and displays the game simulations and
performance information. In appropriate installations the wireless
electromagnetic signals that communicate with the receiver may be
infrared communications.
5. Computer Golfing Software
[0052] At each remote player site, the computer 28 (FIG. 1) under
the control of the golfing software program (shown in the golfing
software system functional block diagram, FIG. 11) monitors and
control initialization and the sequential play of the golf game, or
alternatively, the individual player practice session. Upon start
up by a player at a particular site, the system input parameters
are set and the system internet and player port interfaces are
initialized 130 as indicated by the arrows 130a and 130b. For
internet communications, the serial port listener of the computer
28 is enabled in the preferred embodiment. A remote player event
listener is initialized. It will communicate events from one or
more of the smart golf club, the golf ball receptacle and the
motion sensor plate. The main operational software (program) thread
is run 130, and the system awaits data input from the appropriate
computer communications ports at 132 (port), 133 (Remote player
Socket Event Listener)
[0053] If the competitive play mode has been selected, the program
generates a player participation request and sends 134 the request
to the GGC game internet server (GGC server) 34 (FIG. 1). Upon
identification of a player opponent at 150 (FIG. 12) by the GGC
server, the program initiates the player identification sequence
152 and sequential play begins 154 (This software sequence and
control routine occurs at each remote site where play has been
initiated. During the game play sequences 154, the program
generates the appropriate animation, display, and audio data and
commands 136 and 138 (FIG. 11), and communicates with the
associated display and speaker devices 30 and 31 (FIG. 1). Upon the
occurrence of a local player event, detected at 133, the main
operating program at 130, displays the event at 136, and
communicates the event at 132 by causing a device transmission at
137 to be send at 134 via the internet GGC server 135 which
displays the event for the opposing player and alerts the opposing
player it is his/her turn to play. The local player event may be,
but is not limited to the smart golf club impacting a ball, the
swing of a club across the sensing plate or the balls entry into
the receptacle. The program contains time delay limits for the
player action, and delays of play beyond these limits generate play
quit and disconnect signals.
[0054] The event at 133 also has the effect of indicating at 139
that it is no longer the local players turn and enables (as
indicated by line 139) the serial port listener at 132 to detect an
event from the remote player, again via the internet.
[0055] If the single player practice mode is selected, the internet
communications sequences are disabled, other software sequential
operating routines continue as above described and the players golf
club stroke, ball-receptacle contact, and/or club swing motion
sensor information are communicated only to the computer located at
the players site and the performance information analyzed and
displayer only at the local players site.
[0056] When a game is won, lose, or terminated, the golf software
system generates the appropriate output signals 156 (FIG. 12),
displays the player performance information, and resets to initial
pre-game conditions. If one player opponent quits the game or is
"timed out" (due to excessive delay in play) and the remaining
player wishes to continue play, the software resumes an internet
search for another opponent 152 and 153.
[0057] Using programming as contained in the accompanying
microfiche appendix, one skilled in the art can readily accomplish
the game programming described. Alternative programming too will be
apparent from the foregoing functional description and the
illustrations contained in the appended drawings
[0058] While a preferred embodiment has been described, it will be
appreciated that many variations and modifications in the system,
its operation, and its various components may be made without
departure from the spirit and scope of invention as set forth in
the appended claims.
* * * * *