Rangefinding devices and methods for golfing

Abstract

A device comprises a rangefinder, memory, display, and processor. The rangefinder can measure a distance between a user and a target on a course. The memory stores data concerning a plurality of clubs including a hitting distance for each of the golf clubs. The processor, which is connected to the rangefinder, memory, and display, is configured to select, based on the measured distance, a recommended golf club and to determine a recommended swing speed for a golfer to hit a golf ball with the recommended golf club. The processor is further configured to cause the display to indicate the recommended golf club and swing speed. The device may alternatively or additionally comprise an inclinometer and calculate an adjusted distance based on tilt and the distance, and select the recommended golf club based on the adjusted distance.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 772,016, filed Feb. 9, 2006, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND INFORMATION [0002] This disclosure relates generally to the sport of golf and more particularly, but not exclusively, to rangefinding in the context of golfing. [0003] It is known to utilize rangefinding instruments while golfing to inform a golfer of the distance to a target, such a hole or pin, on a golf course. Several laser-based rangefinders targeted to the golf market are commercially available. Such rangefinders with a club selection or club suggestion feature are also known. For example, such a rangefinder is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005 / 02211905 of Dunne et al. The rangefinder described in Dunne et al. collects data about a golfer's hitting distances for various clubs and recommends a club based on that data and a distance to target as measured on t...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a device and method for using an electronic device to help golfers select the best golf club for their swing. The device includes a rangefinder, memory, display, input device, and processor. The rangefinder can determine the distance between the golfer and the target on the golf course. The memory stores data about multiple golf clubs, including their hitting distance. The display shows the recommended golf club based on the distance and the selected hitter ability. The processor is connected to the rangefinder, memory, and display. The method involves receiving an input from the golfer about the first hitting distance of a golf club, calculating the hitting distance for one or more other golf clubs in the set, and identifying the recommended golf club based on the target distance and the stored hitting distances. The technical effect of this invention is to provide golfers with a more accurate and efficient way to select the best golf club for their swing, resulting in better shots and improved golfing performance.

Problems solved by technology

Furthermore, the rangefinder described in Dunne et al. does not make any suggestion to the user other than the club to use.

In addition, Vermillion et al. does not select one or more recommended clubs based on a hitter ability.

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