U.S. patent application number 16/949015 was filed with the patent office on 2022-04-14 for electronic golf target game.
This patent application is currently assigned to Indian Industries, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Indian Industries, Inc.. Invention is credited to Nicholas Martin, Daniel L. Webb.
Application Number | 20220111281 16/949015 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-04-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220111281 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Webb; Daniel L. ; et
al. |
April 14, 2022 |
ELECTRONIC GOLF TARGET GAME
Abstract
An electronic golf based target game in which one or more
players use a golf club to hit golf balls towards one or more
target zones located on a target. The target zones are assigned a
corresponding score earned upon being struck by a golf ball from a
respective player. The target is wirelessly in electronic
communication with a mobile electronic device which displays a user
interface. The target may be folded for ease of transportation and
storage.
Inventors: |
Webb; Daniel L.; (Newburgh,
IN) ; Martin; Nicholas; (Newburgh, IN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Indian Industries, Inc. |
Evansville |
IN |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Indian Industries, Inc.
Evansville
IN
|
Appl. No.: |
16/949015 |
Filed: |
October 9, 2020 |
International
Class: |
A63B 69/36 20060101
A63B069/36; A63B 67/02 20060101 A63B067/02; A63B 71/06 20060101
A63B071/06 |
Claims
1. A method of using an electronic golf game target, comprising:
downloading a computer software application to a mobile device;
spreading a target base made of a sheet material and having a
surface divided into a plurality of target zones on a support
surface; establishing a wireless communication link between the
target base and the mobile device; striking a golf ball aimed at
the target with a golf club; detecting impact data determining when
and where the golf ball impacts the target; wirelessly
communicating the impact data to the mobile device; storing the
impact data in the mobile device and displaying scoring information
based on the impact data via a user interface on the mobile device;
and controlling game play via commands entered via the user
interface.
2. The method of claim 1, comprising folding the target base for
transportation and storage.
3. The method of claim 2, comprising folding a central target zone
over a portion of the target base prior to folding the target
base.
4. The method of claim 3, comprising folding the target base into
overlapping halves and then folding the target base into
overlapping quarters.
5. The method of claim 4, comprising rolling the folded target base
into a cone.
6. The method of claim 1, comprising rolling the target base into a
tube for transportation and storage.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the target base is made of a
flexible sheet material.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the target base is made of rigid
sheet portions with hinges arranged between the portions to allow
the sheet portions to folded over each other.
9. A method of using an electronic golf game target, comprising:
downloading a computer software application to a mobile device;
unfolding a circular target base having a surface divided into a
plurality of target zones and placing the target base on a support
surface; establishing a wireless communication link between the
target base and the mobile device; striking a golf ball aimed at
the target with a golf club; detecting impact data determining when
and where the golf ball impacts the target; wirelessly
communicating the impact data to the mobile device; and storing the
impact data in the mobile device and displaying player and scoring
information based on the impact data on the mobile device.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein the target base has a plurality
of impact sensors arranged in the target base to detect when a golf
ball impacts a target zone.
11. The method of claim 10, wherein the impact sensors are
piezoelectric impact sensors.
12. The method of claim 9, comprising folding the target base for
transportation and storage.
13. The method of claim 12, comprising folding a central target
zone over a portion of the target base prior to folding the target
base.
14. The method of claim 9, wherein the target base defines a
circular central target zone and four arcuate target zones define a
first ring around the central target zone.
15. A method of using an electronic golf game target, comprising:
downloading a computer software application to a mobile device;
spreading a circular target base made of a sheet material defining
a circular central target zone and four arcuate target zones
defining a first ring around the central target zone on a support
surface; establishing a wireless communication link between the
target base and the mobile device; striking a golf ball aimed at
the target with a golf club; detecting impact data determining when
and where the golf ball impacts the target; wirelessly
communicating the impact data to the mobile device; storing the
impact data in the mobile device and displaying scoring information
based on the impact data via on a user interface on the mobile
device; and controlling game play via commands entered via the user
interface.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the target base defines four
target zones defining a second ring concentrically around the first
ring.
17. The method of claim 15, wherein the target base defines a
plurality of target zones arranged around the first ring.
18. The method of claim 15, comprising folding the central target
zone over a portion of the target base.
19. The method of claim 18, comprising folding the target base for
transportation and storage.
20. The method of claim 19, comprising rolling the folded target
base into a cone.
Description
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of
recreational games, and more specifically provides certain golf
based target game systems.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] Many people enjoy playing golf as a game on a golf course.
However, it often requires a significant investment of time and
money to play on a dedicated golf course. Accordingly, there has
developed a need and market for portable golf games that can be
used for practice and/or recreation. Such games can be used, for
example, in backyards, while tailgating, in basements, garages,
game rooms, gyms, fairs, party facilities or otherwise and
preferably can be stored within a relatively small area.
SUMMARY
[0003] In certain embodiments, an electronic golf game includes at
least one golf ball and at least one golf club. A target base is
made of a flexible sheet material with a surface divided into a
plurality of target zones. An array of impact sensors are within
the target base and configured to detect when a golf ball impacts a
target zone. An electronics module/controller assembly is within
the target base. The impact sensors communicate impact data
regarding an impacted target zone to the electronics module. A
wireless transceiver is operably connected to the electronics
module and configured to wirelessly communicate with a remote
device. The remote device has a computer software application
stored thereon which receives the impact data from the wireless
transceiver and is programmed to display the information on a user
interface.
[0004] A method of using an electronic golf game target includes
downloading a computer software application to a mobile device and
spreading a target base made of a sheet material and having a
surface divided into a plurality of target zones on a support
surface. The method includes establishing a wireless communication
link between the target base and the mobile device. Game play
includes striking a golf ball aimed at the target with a golf club.
The target system determined impact data including when and where
the golf ball impacts the target and wirelessly communicating the
impact data to the mobile device. The mobile device stores the
impact data and displays scoring information based on the impact
data via a user interface on the mobile device. The user can
control game play via commands entered via the user interface. In
some embodiments, the target base is folded for transportation and
storage.
[0005] In an alternate embodiment, a method of using an electronic
golf game target, includes downloading a computer software
application to a mobile device, unfolding a circular target base
having a surface divided into a plurality of target zones and
placing the target base on a support surface. The method includes
establishing a wireless communication link between the target base
and the mobile device; and striking a golf ball aimed at the target
with a golf club. The system detects impact data determining when
and where the golf ball impacts the target; and wirelessly
communicates the impact data to the mobile device. The impact data
is stored and the mobile device displays player and scoring
information based on the impact data.
[0006] In some embodiments, the target base is includes a circular
central area and ring of target zones around the central area. In
further embodiments, the target base includes a second ring of
target zones concentric to the first ring.
[0007] Other objects and advantages of embodiments of the present
disclosure will be apparent from the description, figures and
claims.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a player using an electronic
golf target game according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[0009] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a target of the game as
shown in FIG. 1.
[0010] FIG. 3 is a view of a user interface on a mobile device used
with the game as shown in FIG. 1.
[0011] FIGS. 4A-D are perspective views illustrating a method of
folding the target of FIG. 2.
DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS
[0012] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the
principles of the disclosure, reference will now be made to the
embodiments illustrated and specific language will be used to
describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no
limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended, such
alterations, modifications, and further applications of the
principles of the disclosure being contemplated as would normally
occur to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure
relates.
[0013] In certain embodiments, an electronic golf game includes at
least one golf ball and at least one golf club. A target base is
divided into a plurality of target zones. An array of impact
sensors are within the target base. The impact sensors determine
impact data when a golf ball impacts a target zone. The impact data
is wirelessly communicate with a remote device. The remote device
receives the impact data from the wireless transceiver and displays
the information on a user interface.
[0014] Various embodiments include methods of using an electronic
golf game target, including downloading a computer software
application to a mobile device and unfolding or spreading a target
base divided into a plurality of target zones on a support surface.
A wireless communication link is established between the target
base and the mobile device. Game play includes striking a golf ball
aimed at the target with a golf club. The target determines impact
data and wirelessly communicating the impact data to the mobile
device. The mobile device stores the impact data and displays
scoring information based on the impact data via a user interface
on the mobile device.
[0015] The user can control game play via commands entered via the
user interface. In some embodiments, the target base is folded for
transportation and storage.
[0016] Illustrated in FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a player 10
playing an electronic golf target game according to an embodiment
of the present disclosure. Player 10 uses a golf club 14 to strike
a projectile 18 such as a golf ball towards a target 50. Target 50
is spaced away from player 10 by a selected distance and spread
over a support surface. Target 50 is wirelessly in electronic
communication with a mobile electronic device 20. The game may
include one or more targets 50. In one embodiment, two targets 50
are spaced apart to provide back and forth game play comparable to
a game of horseshoes or cornhole. In another embodiment, two or
more targets 50 are arranged at different distances and/or in
different directions and a player 10 may aim a projectile toward
any of the available targets.
[0017] The game may include one or more golf clubs 14 which may be
the same or which may have different characteristics (woods, irons,
different angled heads, etc.). The game also includes one or more
projectiles, such as golf balls, which may be the same or which may
have different characteristics. In some versions, the game may be
provided as a kit which includes the golf clubs 14 and projectiles
18. In other versions, target 50 is provided and the players
provide their own clubs and projectiles.
[0018] FIG. 2 illustrates a representative target 50. Target 50
includes a target base 52 divided into a plurality of target zones.
In the illustrated embodiment, target base 52 is circular. An
optional pole and flag 64 may extend upward in the center. As
illustrated, target 50 includes a circular central target zone 54,
four arcuate target zones 56 in a first ring around target zone 54,
and four arcuate target zones 58 in a second ring concentrically
around the first ring of target zones 56. Alternately, the first
ring and the second ring can be each be made of a single target
zone or a different number of target zones. In the illustrated
embodiments, target zones 56 and 58 are formed as truncated
pie-shaped wedges. In an alternate embodiment, target 50 may only
include central target zone 54 and a first ring of target zones. In
other embodiments, target 50 may incorporate multiple rings and/or
target 50 can be formed in alternate shapes with target zones
symmetrically or asymmetrically arranged as regular or irregular
shapes and/or patterns. Examples with multiple target zones include
a triangular arrangement comparable to a shuffleboard court or an
elongated alternating arrangement comparable to a hopscotch court.
In some embodiments, different target zone sizes correspond to
different levels of difficulty and the resulting value of the
target zone during game play. Typically the largest or closest
target zone would have the lowest difficulty and accordingly it
would be afforded the lowest score. Optionally, a target 50 may
have indicia such as printed lines to delineate different target
zones or score values.
[0019] Each target 50 incorporates software and hardware components
that may be used to detect impacts and communicate with mobile
device 20. In certain embodiments, target base 52 is made in a
layered arrangement including an upper/outer target surface and an
opposing lower or backing layer. An array of impact sensors and
corresponding wiring is arranged and concealed in target base 52
between the target surface and the backing layer. The impact
sensors are configured to detect when and where a projectile 18
impacts target 50. Certain embodiments use piezoelectric impact
sensors. The impact sensors are operably connected to an
electronics module/electronics module 60 within target base 52 with
appropriate wiring. When an impact sensor detects a projectile
impact, the sensor sends impact data to electronics module 60.
Electronics module 60 may be concealed in target 50, for instance
in the central target zone 54 or in an outer portion. Alternately,
electronics module may be spaced from target base 52 and connected
by a cable.
[0020] Electronics module 60 may include any suitable arrangement
of hardware and control logic. For example, electronics module 60
may include a housing, a processor, a memory or data storage media,
a power supply, and pressure sensor circuits operatively connected
to impact sensors in target zones 54, 56 and 58. Electronics module
60 may include one or more external interfaces for charging the
power supply, inputting programming, communicating data and the
like. The processor may be a microprocessor or other suitable
control circuitry configured to accept sensor input and to
calculate and/or send control output signals. The power supply may
be a sealed and portable power supply such as a battery. The
battery may be a long-life battery, a replaceable battery or
alternately may be rechargeable using wired or wireless external
charging methods, such as wireless induction.
[0021] Electronics module 60 includes or is operably connected to a
wireless transceiver to exchange information wirelessly with mobile
device 20. For example, a communications link from the control
assembly to a device 20 may be established via a wireless
technology such as Bluetooth.RTM., WiFi.RTM., or the like.
Electronics module 60 may include one or more buttons or other
controls and/or connector plugs or sockets to input programming
into the control assembly, for resetting or pairing the control
assembly, a power button or switch, and for other control
functions.
[0022] Mobile electronic device 20 includes a display screen and a
suitable arrangement of hardware and programming. Examples of
mobile electronic devices include tablets, smart phones, personal
digital assistants (PDAs), smart watches or laptop computers. The
game includes a computer software application (e.g. an app) which
can be installed on an owner's or player's mobile electronic device
20. The computer software application is programmed with game rules
and control logic for one or more games or game variations using
target 50. The app includes a user interface 30 which is displayed
on the screen of the mobile electronic device 20.
[0023] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the user interface 30 includes a
graphical representation 32 of targets 50 arranged to correspond to
the arrangement of one or more targets 50 being used in the game.
Graphical representation 32 includes a target graphic corresponding
to the size and shape of target 50, for instance with central
target zone 34 and target graphics 36 and 38 matching the
configuration of target zones 54, 56 and 58. In alternate
embodiments of target 50, target graphic 32 may be displayed in a
different size, shape or arrangement to match the different
configuration of target 50. User interface 30 further includes
player or team indicia 41, 43 such as "Player 1" and "Player 2,"
and corresponding player or team cumulative scores 42, 44. The game
may be setup to be played by a single player or for one to four
players to play individually or in teams. In alternate embodiments,
the game could support play by more than four players or teams.
[0024] When a target zone on target 50 is impacted by a projectile
18, the impact sensors detect and report which target zone was
impacted to control assembly 60 which then wirelessly communicates
with mobile device 20. This causes a corresponding graphic zone
displayed on user interface 30 to display a corresponding impact
indicator and score value 39, e.g. 5 points for hitting a target
zone 58, 10 points for hitting a target zone 56 or 50 points for
hitting central target zone 54. In certain embodiments the score
value can be adjusted using the app based on target distance, for
instance if one target is farther away from the other. Alternately,
score values can be based on the shape and arrangement of the
target zones. The score value 39 is then added to the player's or
team's cumulative score 42, 44 and the user interface 30 then
indicates that play switches to the next player or team 41, 43.
User interface 30 operates to display scoring, to track the active
player or team and to track the rounds of play until a game is
completed.
[0025] User interface 30 may include a touch screen or similar
control inputs. The computer software application is programmed to
control game play via commands input via the control inputs and/or
to wirelessly communicate input from the controls as commands to
the electronics module. For instance, within the software
application a game reset button 48 and/or a "player" button 49 can
be activated to switch play to the next team. The user interface
may also include controls which communicate with the control
assembly, such as a connect button 47 to establish a Bluetooth.RTM.
pairing or a WiFi.RTM. connection, or a test mode button.
Alternately, the wireless communication link may be established
using a general settings interface for the mobile device outside of
the computer app.
[0026] In one form, target base 52 is formed of flexible sheet
materials, such as cloth, plastic, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE),
foam, or the like allowing the base to be spread out for use and
then folded or rolled for easy transportation and storage after
game play. In a further optional yet preferred aspect, target base
52 is constructed from waterproof or semi-waterproof and weather
resistant materials. In alternate less preferred forms, target base
52 is made of semi-rigid or rigid sheet portions made of wood,
plastic, lightweight metal or another suitable material, and may
include hinges such as mechanical hinges or living hinges/flexible
hinge portions between the portions to allow target 50 to be folded
for transportation and storage.
[0027] Optionally, during the folding process, the circular central
target zone 54 may be partially disconnected and folded over a
portion of the ring shaped remainder. A flexible connector may
connect the circular central target zone 54 to the remainder of
target base 52, forming a hinge. Cabling may extend though the
hinge to connect an electronics module 60 located in the central
target zone to impact sensors in the ring shaped portion or to
connect an electronics module 60 outside of the central target zone
to sensors in the central target zone. During play, central target
zone 54 may be held in place with separable fasteners, such as hook
and loop fasteners, snaps, zippers, buttons or the like.
[0028] FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate a representative method of folding
target 50. Starting with a playing configuration spread over a
support surface as shown in FIG. 2, as shown in FIG. 4A the
optional pole and flag 64 are removed from the middle and laid
horizontally on a portion of the target base, preferably with the
pole along a radial axis. The circular central target zone 54 is
then partially unfastened, raised and folded to one side, leaving a
ring shaped remainder. In certain embodiments the circular central
target zone 54 is folded over the same portion where the pole and
flag 64 are placed. Next, the target base 52 is folded over itself
into overlapping halves (FIG. 4B) and then folded over itself again
into overlapping quarters (FIG. 4C). Optionally, target 50 may have
indicia such as printed lines or living hinges (areas of reduced
thickness) to indicate fold axes and to facilitate folding. The
folded target base 52 can then be rolled into a cone, as shown in
FIG. 4D, and optionally secured in the rolled configuration with a
strap 68. Alternately, target 50 can be rolled into a tube. The
illustrated folding method is representative and other methods can
be used as desired. The specific folding method will also vary
accordingly to different embodiments of target 50. Optionally, a
case may be provided to transport and store the target(s), clubs
and/or projectiles.
[0029] In certain embodiments, the ring shaped portion forms a
continuous circle and the portions are not separable. In certain
less desired embodiments, the ring shaped portion may be formed of
a series of portions which are separable and selectively linked at
joints with separable fasteners. If separable, the joints between
the portions will include cabling or connectors to establish
electronic circuits between the portions and the electronics
module.
[0030] As representatively illustrated in FIG. 1, when playing a
game using a system herein, a first player 10 stands a selected
distance in front of a target 50. Player 10 attempts to hit a
projectile 18 using a golf club 14 to strike the target 50. If the
target is hit, the target zone and score are registered and
displayed on user interface 30 and score 42 for first player 10 is
updated. Play then passes to the next player and the process is
repeated. Thereafter, the players or teams take turns hitting
projectiles toward the target for designated number of rounds of
game play. Typically, the player or team who scores the most points
is the winner.
[0031] In alternate embodiments, each player may be allowed
multiple attempts before play passes to another player, the players
may be given different difficulty levels such as different
distances from the target, the players may use unequal or different
equipment, or other aspects may be varied to add more excitement
and entertainment to the game.
[0032] The components of the system can be manufactured and
assembled from standard materials, such as fabric, rubber, wood,
plastic or metal based materials as examples. The target zones
preferably do not permanently deform or indent when projectiles
strike the target surface. The projectiles used may be standard or
regulation golf balls, or may be made of softer materials and/or
reduced in size as appropriate for the desired players' ages and
the desired game environment. Preferably, the game embodiments are
portable to enable the device to be positioned at various
locations. In certain embodiments, the system may be manufactured
in a modular, lightweight form to enhance the ease of transport,
assembly and disassembly.
[0033] While the disclosure has been illustrated and described in
detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be
considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it
being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown
and described and that all changes and modifications that come
within the spirit of the disclosure are desired to be
protected.
* * * * *