Golf support device and program

Abstract

To provide useful information for playing a golf.SOLUTION: A golf support device is moved to a cup position on a green, and registers a cup position in a buffer memory of the cup position on the basis of a current position. A drawing position of a flag icon I5 is an actual position whose point has been registered as the cup position. If point registration processing is not performed, the flag icon I5 is drawn on a green center position so as to be indicated by two-dot chain line. After registration of the cup position, if a user returns to a position where the user actually hits a ball, a control part draws a distance display region R5 to the cup position on a residual distance display region R1 to a normal green center as shown, and calculates a distance from the current position (self icon I) to the cup position and displays the distance (illustrated as "56"). Therefore the user can confirm the distance to the cup, for facilitating selection of a kind of a club in approach.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a golf support device that provides various information to a golf player while playing at a golf course. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, there is a golf support device that uses a GPS receiver to display the distance from the current position to the green, bunkers, etc., and the course layout at a golf course, and allows the user to accurately and easily record the position where the ball was hit during a golf game (Patent Document 1, etc.). The device disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a position information acquisition means that communicates with a GPS satellite to acquire current position information, a position information recording means that records the position information, a layout information recording means that records information on a layout image that allows the layout of the holes on the golf course to be visually recognized, along with information on the latitude and longitude, and a hit trajectory display processing means that plots the position information on the layout image and displays the hit trajectory.

[0003] According to the invention of Patent Document 1, by checking the trajectory of the hit after playing, it is possible to confirm and reflect on the play, check the course layout before or during play, and check the distance from the current position to the green, bunker, etc. during play, thereby formulating a strategy for play.

[0004] Patent document 2 also stores and retains layout information for each hole course of a golf course, including the pin position (cup position) of the hole, and has the function of displaying the distance from the position detected by the hitting position detection means to the pin position of the hole, and displaying the hitting direction on the hole course screen. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-339929 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-346930 DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] In conventional golf support devices of this type, the remaining distance from the current position to the green is displayed as the distance to the green edge or a fixed position such as the center of the green. This makes it difficult to accurately grasp the distance to the actual pin. In particular, on a large green such as a single green, the difference between the actual remaining distance to the pin (cup) on the course currently being played and the displayed remaining distance becomes large, which can make it difficult to properly select the club number or adjust the swing.

[0007] Furthermore, when playing golf, it is not enough to simply know the exact remaining distance to the pin; you need to look at the course layout, consider the location of hazards on the course, the presence and direction of slopes, etc., and decide how to attack the course. At this time, you can ask your caddy to tell you the distance to each location on the course, but asking every time is cumbersome, and there are also cases where a caddy is not nearby or where it is not practical to visit them in the first place, such as when playing by yourself.

[0008] As described above, current golf support devices still have the problem of not providing sufficient information when playing golf. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the golf support device of the present invention is configured to include (1) an information presentation means for presenting the hole layout of a golf course on a display unit, a cup position registration means for registering the cup position on the green of the hole layout displayed by the information presentation means, a current position detection means for detecting the current position, a cup remaining distance calculation means for calculating the distance from the current position detected by the current position detection means to the cup position, and a distance display means for displaying the calculated distance.

[0010] Typically, the cup position changes every day. Therefore, when a fixed distance, such as the distance to the center of the green, is required, it is not possible to accurately determine the remaining distance from the current position. In contrast, the present invention can display the exact distance to the cup by registering the cup position for the day. Therefore, checking the distance to the cup can be useful in selecting the type of club when approaching.

[0011] (2) The cup position registration means may have a function for registering the cup position based on the current position detected by the current position detection means when the golfer moves to the cup position on the green. This allows the golfer to easily and accurately determine the cup position. Furthermore, the player can know the exact distance without actually measuring the distance.

[0012] (3) The cup position registration means may register the cup position based on a designated point on the green displayed on the display unit, thereby enabling easy registration without actually going to the green.

[0013] (4) The cup position registered by the cup position registration means may be erased when a hole is completed. When a hole is completed, for example, it is possible to detect that the player has left the hole based on the current position or that the player has moved to the next hole. Since the cup position changes every day, the position information for the cup position becomes unnecessary when a hole is completed. Therefore, erasing the cup position reduces unnecessary memory usage. It also prevents the player from accidentally displaying information based on cup position information from a different day.

[0014] (5) It is preferable to provide a position designation means for designating any point on the course layout presented on the display unit by the information presentation means, a distance calculation means to a target point for calculating the distance between the current position detected by the current position detection means and the point designated by the position designation means, and a target point distance display means for displaying the distance calculated by the distance calculation means to the target point. Since it is possible to know the distance from the current position to any point, it is possible to, for example, determine where you should hit the ball in relation to your own driving distance, or check the distance to hazards and other places where you should not hit the ball, thereby obtaining useful information for conquering the course.

[0015] (6) It is preferable to provide a remaining distance calculation means for calculating the remaining distance from the point designated by the position designation means to the green, and a remaining distance display means for displaying the remaining distance calculated by the remaining distance calculation means. By setting the target point as the point where the ball will land (the next hit location), the distance from there to the green can be determined, and a more appropriate target point for the current hit can be identified taking into account the remaining distance to the next hit location.

[0016] (7) It is preferable to provide a two-point position designation means for designating two points on the course layout presented on the display unit by the information presentation means, a two-point distance calculation means for calculating the distance between the two points designated by the two-point position designation means, and a two-point distance display means for displaying the distance calculated by the two-point distance calculation means. This allows the distance of any section on the course to be confirmed, providing useful information for mastering the course.

[0017] (8) It is preferable to have a starting point position registration means for registering a starting point position, a travel distance calculation means for calculating the distance from the starting point position to the current position, and a travel distance display means for displaying the distance calculated by the travel distance calculation means. This is realized in the "practice mode" of the embodiment. During practice, the distance between the hitting point and the target can be accurately set, which is suitable for improving distance perception.

[0018] (9) When registering the starting point position using the starting point position registration means, it is advisable to draw a layout of a golf course on the display screen. This is preferable because it creates the atmosphere of a golf course even in an ordinary place such as a garden.

[0019] (10) The program of the present invention may be a program for causing a computer to realize the functions of each means in the golf support device according to any one of (1) to (9). [Effects of the Invention]

[0020] This allows the user to know the distance to the actual cup position, providing useful information when playing golf. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] 1 is an external view showing an embodiment of a golf support device according to the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram illustrating a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing an algorithm for registration processing when not playing. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen. [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart showing another algorithm for the registration process when not playing. [Figure 17] 10 is a flowchart showing an algorithm for registration processing during play. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0022] A preferred embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The golf support device of this embodiment is a golf support device that displays the course layout of an actual golf course, measures the current position, and notifies the player of the current position and the remaining distance to the green in real time as the player moves, and is also called a golf navigation device.

[0023] 1 and 2 show a preferred embodiment of a golf support device 1 according to the present invention. This golf support device 1 is equipped with a display unit 3 on the top surface of a flat, approximately rectangular case 2. The display unit 3 is a semi-transparent LCD touch panel. This allows for clear display even in bright daylight, improving visibility. A built-in backlight is also included, which turns on the screen backlight when a button is pressed or the screen is touched, further improving visibility. However, since leaving the backlight on all the time consumes battery power quickly, the backlight is turned on for a set period of time and then turned off. This period can be changed by the user (e.g., 5 seconds, 10 seconds, 20 seconds, 30 seconds, or 60 seconds). A completely off mode (OFF) is also available. Furthermore, a charging lamp 8 is located on the rear side of the top surface of the case 2.

[0024] A power button 4 and a location registration button 5 are located on both sides of the case 2. The power button 4 is used not only to turn the power on and off, but also as a button to lock and unlock touch panel operation. Specifically, when the control unit 11 recognizes that the power button 4 has been pressed and held (for example, for two seconds or more) while the power is off, the power turns on and the control unit 11 displays a predetermined main menu screen on the display unit 3. Furthermore, when the control unit 11 recognizes that the power button 4 has been pressed and held while the power is on, the control unit 11 displays a predetermined shutdown screen on the display unit 3 and then turns off the power.

[0025] Furthermore, if the power button 4 is pressed briefly while the power is on, the control unit 11 detects this and alternately locks and unlocks the touch panel. That is, if the current state is locked, it is unlocked, enabling operation via the touch panel, and if the current state is unlocked, it is locked, disabling operation via the touch panel. The current state is indicated by an icon drawn at a predetermined position on the display unit 3. The location registration button 5 is used to register locations, etc., and the specific processing functions associated with operating this button will be described later.

[0026] The GPS receiver 6, which receives radio waves from GPS satellites, is mounted inside the front of the case 2. An openable terminal cover 7 is attached to the rear of the case 2, and opening the terminal cover 7 as shown in Figure 1(b) exposes a miniUSB terminal 9. The device can be charged by connecting an AC adapter to this miniUSB terminal 9, and can be connected to a computer via a USB cable to send and receive data.

[0027] Inside the case 2, there are a GPS receiver 6 that receives GPS signals and determines the current position (longitude and latitude), a golf course data storage unit 12 that pre-stores golf information such as the course layout of the golf course, a control unit 11 that accesses the golf course data storage unit 12 based on the current position information from the GPS receiver 6, acquires information about the golf course, and controls the output device to output it, a display unit 3 and speaker 15 that constitute the output device, a battery 17 that serves as a power source when carried, a memory device 18 that stores the execution results of the control unit 11, a geomagnetic sensor 19, etc.

[0028] The golf course data storage unit 12 is configured with recording media such as internal memory and removable external recording media (such as a microSD memory card). The golf information stored in this golf course data storage unit 12 includes data about actual golf courses (such as the course layout of each hole and the positions of objects on the course, such as greens and bunkers). This information may be similar to that disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Nos. 7-57189 and 2003-339929.

[0029] The control unit 11 includes a microcomputer equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM, flash memory, various peripheral circuits, interfaces, etc. When the power is turned on, the control unit 11 receives power from the battery 17 and starts operating. The control unit 11 uses a boot loader recorded in the ROM to load the OS and application programs recorded in the flash memory onto the RAM, and executes the OS and application programs on the RAM to perform the various processes described below and realize various functions.

[0030] The storage device 18 records the calculation results and may be a non-removable internal storage device or a slot (including a read / write function) for inserting a removable recording medium such as an SD memory card. The recording medium / device constituting the storage device 18 may be shared with the golf course data storage unit 12 in the actual device.

[0031] Battery 17 is a secondary battery that can be charged like a rechargeable battery, and can be charged via miniUSB terminal 9. Based on the output of geomagnetic sensor 19, control unit 11 determines the direction and angle in which this device is facing.

[0032] The functions of the control unit 11 will be described below with reference to specific display screens. The control unit 11 accesses the golf course data storage unit 12 based on the location information (longitude and latitude) from the GPS receiver 6 and retrieves information about the golf course currently being played. The control unit 11 then retrieves the corresponding course from the current location information and renders it on the display unit 3. An example of the display screen rendered on the display unit 3 is shown in FIG. 3 . As shown in the figure, the layout of the hole currently being played is rendered across the entire display screen, with the green at the top. The control unit 11 then renders a player icon I overlaid on a position corresponding to the player's current location on the rendered hole (the player's current location obtained from the GPS receiver 6). This allows the user to know the direction toward the green and the location, size, and shape of ponds, bunkers, and other features around the green. The control unit 11 also renders concentric circular lines L overlaid on the hole layout, centered on the player icon I. This allows the user to understand the approximate distance to ponds and bunkers. By displaying the course layout in this way, the user can confirm how to tackle each hole, even if it's their first time playing the course.

[0033] Additionally, a remaining distance display area R1 is set in the lower right of the screen. That is, the positions of the green edge and the center of the green are registered as information about the green in the golf course data storage unit 12. The control unit 11 then calculates the distance between the current position and the center of the green and displays the remaining distance to the center of the green ("366" in the figure). The control unit 11 also calculates the intersection point between the line connecting the current position and the center of the green and the green edge, calculates the distance between the position of this intersection point and the current position, and displays the remaining distance to the green edge ("350" in the figure).

[0034] The control unit 11 also draws a flag icon I5 at a location on the green corresponding to the pin position (cup position). The initial drawing position of this flag icon I5 is the center of the green. As will be described later, the pin position can be changed by user registration, so if a change is made, the new position will be used. In addition, in accordance with the change, the remaining distance from the current position to the pin position may be calculated, and the calculated remaining distance may be displayed in the display area for the remaining distance to the center of the green.

[0035] The upper area of ​​the display screen of the display unit 3 also displays an icon I1 indicating the remaining battery level, an icon I2 indicating the hole number currently being played, an icon I3 (L (left side) / R (right side)) specifying the green used on a hole with two greens, and an icon I4 (yd (yards) / m (meters)) indicating the unit of distance display. Furthermore, the right edge of the information area displays the time. The display of the icon I3 specifying the green can be switched by operating the location registration button 5. In other words, when the control unit 11 recognizes that the location registration button 5 has been pressed briefly while displaying a hole with two greens, it switches from the currently selected green to another green, and changes the drawing position of the flag icon I5 and the display of the icon I3 accordingly.

[0036] Furthermore, an arbitrary location can be registered based on a switch operation or the like. Specifically, when the control unit 11 recognizes that the location registration button 5 has been pressed and held (for example, for two seconds or more), it acquires the current location at that time from the GPS receiver 6 and registers the location. This arbitrary location can be used, for example, to register the location where the ball was actually hit. If such a registered arbitrary location exists within the hole layout displayed on the display screen, a location registration icon I0 is drawn at the corresponding position, as shown in FIG. 4, etc. In addition to drawing this location registration icon I0, the control unit 11 also draws a flight distance display area R2 in the lower left corner of the display screen. The initial value displayed in this flight distance display area R2 is "0" as shown in the figure.

[0037] Furthermore, the control unit 11 detects the direction in which the device is facing based on the output of the geomagnetic sensor 19, and draws that direction as a direction indicator line S consisting of an arrow and a dotted line superimposed on the hole layout. The origin of this direction indicator line S is the current position (user icon I). As a result, when the user changes the orientation of the device while holding it, the direction indicator line S on the display screen rotates accordingly, and by aligning the direction indicator line S (dotted line) with the green or the place where the user wants to hit the ball, the user can confirm that the target point is where they are currently facing. Therefore, even if visibility is poor due to fog, the target is far away, or there are trees or obstacles, the user can accurately know the direction.

[0038] Furthermore, the control unit 11 calculates the distance between the registered location and the current location of the user's icon I, and displays the distance in a distance display area R2 provided at the bottom left of the display screen. For example, the user may register a shot location for hitting a ball, and then actually hit the ball and move to the landing point. Then, as shown in FIG. 5, the distance between the registered location (shot location) and the current location (drop point) is displayed in the distance display area R2 ("232" in the figure). This allows the user to know the actual distance traveled. As is clear from FIGS. 4 and 5, the control unit 11 positions the user's icon I, which indicates the current location, at the bottom center of the display screen in the basic state.

[0039] In addition, multiple location registrations are possible, and the location information for each registered location is recorded in the order of registration for each hole in the storage device 18. This allows the trajectory of play on an actual golf course to be recorded by registering the location of each shot where the ball was hit, and also allows the trajectory of actual play to be confirmed on the display screen by drawing each hole layout together with the location registration icon I0 on the display unit 3.

[0040] <Distance display function to any point (target point)> For example, as shown in FIG. 3, while a golf course is being displayed on the screen, a user touches any location on the course. Then, as shown in FIG. 6, the control unit 11 draws the course so that the touched location is located at the center of the screen, and also draws a mark M (a circle with a cross over it) indicating the target location at the touched location. The control unit 11 then calculates the distance from the current location to the touched location and displays the calculated distance in the distance-to-target-location display area R3 ("200" in the figure). At the same time, the control unit 11 also calculates the remaining distance from the touched location to the green (edge ​​position, center pin position) and displays it in the remaining-distance display area R1. By comparing the distances displayed in both areas R1 and R3, the user can consider the appropriate club type to use at the current location to hit the ball to the touched location and the appropriate club type to use next to aim for the green from the touched location.

[0041] Furthermore, the control unit 11 draws a zoom-out button B1, a zoom-in button B2, and a back button B3 at the bottom of the display screen, as shown in FIG. 6, and also draws a triangular cursor K at each of the central positions on the top, bottom, left, and right of the course layout display area. When the control unit 11 recognizes that the zoom-out button B1 or zoom-in button B2 has been pressed, it zooms in or out and draws the course layout. When the control unit 11 recognizes that the cursor K has been pressed, it moves and draws the course layout in that direction. At this time, since the position of mark M is at the center of the screen, the position on the course indicated by mark M changes as the cursor K moves. Therefore, the distance to the point indicated by mark M and the remaining distance from that point are recalculated and displayed in areas R3 and R1. This is preferable because it makes it easy to determine which position is best to aim.

[0042] Although this function is primarily used to display the distance to the target point, it can also be used to display the distance to a place where you should not aim (do not hit). In other words, by touching a bunker or other hazard, the distance to the hazard can be displayed, which can be useful for selecting a club type that will stop just before the hazard or one that will allow you to clear the hazard with confidence.

[0043] <Distance display function between two points> The two-point distance display function calculates the distance between two points by touching them, and displays the calculated distance. This allows you to check the distance of any section on the course.

[0044] For example, when the control unit 11 recognizes that the menu button B4 set in Figures 3 to 5 has been touched, it displays a menu screen (not shown) overlaid on the course layout. The menu screen has button areas for selecting various functions, and the control unit 11 activates the function by recognizing that a button specifying the "distance between two points" has been selected. First, as shown in Figure 7, the control unit 11 draws triangular cursors K at the center positions of the top, bottom, left, and right of the display area of ​​the course layout, overlaid on the course layout, and draws a mark M' at their intersection (the center of the screen). Furthermore, the control unit 11 draws a zoom-out button B1, a zoom-in button B2, and a back button B3 at the bottom of the display screen, and a point-to-point distance display area R4 at the bottom left. Here, since no two points are selected, the distance display is "0."

[0045] In this state, when the control unit 11 recognizes that the zoom-out button B1 / zoom-in button B2 has been pressed, it zooms in / zooms in and draws the course layout. Furthermore, when the control unit 11 recognizes that the cursor K has been pressed, it moves and draws the course layout in that direction. In this state, when a point on the screen is touched, the control unit 11 recognizes the touched point and draws a start icon Is (e.g., a red circle) at that position (see FIG. 8). Thus, the user can register the first point they want to check by displaying it on the screen and touching it. Furthermore, when the control unit 11 touches the screen again after the first point has been registered (the start icon Is has been drawn), it registers the touched point as the second point and draws an end icon Ie at that position (see FIG. 9). This end icon Ie may be a red circle of the same shape and dimensions as the start icon Is, or it may be different in at least one of shape, size, and color so that it is clear which is the start icon Is.

[0046] Once the two points are registered, the control unit 11 draws a straight line L1 connecting the two points and calculates the distance between the two points, and displays the calculated distance in the point-to-point distance display area R4 ("148" in the figure).

[0047] This allows you to know the distance between any two points on the course, providing useful information for deciding how to approach the course. When the back button B3 is selected, the display returns to the basic display shown in Figure 3, etc.

[0048] <Cup position registration function> The cup position registration function allows you to register the cup position on the day of play. As mentioned above, the remaining distance display area R1 displays a standard remaining distance, such as the green edge or the center of the green. On an actual golf course, the cup position changes daily. Therefore, if the cup position is near the edge of the green, the larger the green is, or the closer you are to the green, the greater the deviation from the cup position (pin position) set at the center of the green. The impact of this error is particularly pronounced the closer you are to the green, such as on an approach shot.

[0049] Therefore, by registering the cup position on the day of play, the distance to the cup can be calculated and displayed accurately without pacing, allowing the user to check the exact remaining distance. As a result, accurate navigation can be achieved right up to the hole-out.

[0050] Specifically, the user carries the device and moves to the cup position on the green, where the cup position is registered. For example, when the control unit 11 recognizes that a "Cup Position Registration" button provided on the menu screen has been touched, the control unit 11 activates the cup position registration mode. If the position registration button 5 is pressed and held down (for example, for two seconds or more) during the cup position registration mode, the current position (obtained from the GPS receiver 6) at that time is registered in the buffer memory as the cup position. Therefore, the user can register the exact position by activating the cup position registration mode while traveling to the cup position or upon reaching the cup position, and then holding down the position registration button 5 while the device is positioned close to or directly above the cup position.

[0051] As a result, as shown in FIG. 10, for example, the drawing position of the flag icon I5 is the actual location registered as the cup position. If this location registration process is not performed, the flag icon I5 is drawn in the center of the green, as indicated by the two-dot chain line. The flag icon I5 drawn based on this location registration process and the flag icon I5 drawn in the center of the green, as originally registered at the time of factory shipment, have different drawing styles. Specifically, the control unit 11 draws the flag icon I5 in different display colors. Instead of changing the display color, various different styles can be used, such as changing the shape or size, or flashing the flag icon I5 based on the location registration. By varying the drawing style in this way, the user can easily recognize which flag icon is currently being drawn. Of course, the drawing styles can be the same without being different.

[0052] 10 shows the state after the cup position has been registered and the user has returned to the position where the ball will actually be hit. When the cup position has been registered in this way, the control unit 11 displays a distance display area R5 to the cup position on top of the usual remaining distance display area R1, and also calculates the distance from the current position (own icon I) to the cup position and displays that distance ("56" in the figure). Therefore, checking the distance to the cup helps the user select the type of club to use when approaching.

[0053] Once the control unit 11 registers the cup position in the buffer memory, it retains the cup position until the end of the hole. This allows the player to know the exact remaining distance to the cup position based on the previously registered cup position when making a second approach shot, even if the ball does not land on the green in one shot. Furthermore, the remaining distance information can be effectively used when putting on the green.

[0054] The control unit 11 erases the registered cup position when it determines that the player has moved to the next hole based on the position information acquired from the GPS receiving unit 6. The registered cup position is also erased when the power is turned off.

[0055] In the above example, the cup position was registered by going to the actual cup position and pressing and holding the position registration button 5, but this is not limited to pressing and holding the position button.The current position when instructed can be registered as the cup position in various ways, such as clicking a button area provided on the screen.

[0056] While an accurate position can be registered by actually moving to the cup position in this manner, it is also possible to register the cup position by, for example, drawing the target green on the screen and touching any point on the green. In this case, it is preferable to enlarge the green to fill the screen as much as possible, as this allows for more accurate registration of the point. While this method is less accurate than registering the actual cup position as in the present embodiment, it is more accurate than displaying the remaining distance uniformly set at the center of the green. Furthermore, since there is no need to actually go to the green, it is possible to register a relatively distant point, which is preferable in that it promotes speedy play. Furthermore, caddies carry documents listing the approximate pin position for the day, and some golf courses offer access to documents listing the pin position for the day for self-play. Registering the cup position based on this information allows players to more accurately select a club type by knowing the approximate remaining distance to the cup position, even when the remaining distance is 100 to 150 yards or more and it is difficult to actually go to the green.

[0057] In this embodiment, the cup position is erased when moving between holes, but it may also be left as is. This is particularly convenient when playing the same hole twice in the same day, such as in a one-and-a-half-round or two-round game, because the previously registered cup position information can be used as is. However, even in this case, it is preferable to erase the cup position when play for the day is completed. By erasing the cup position in this way, it is possible to prevent the remaining distance based on an incorrect cup position registered during a previous play from being displayed during play on a later day.

[0058] If the data is not erased, for example, by importing and recording cup position information into a computer or the like, it is possible to have the advantage of being able to more accurately and in detail reflect on and consider the player's play. In this case, to avoid the display of erroneous information as described above, the registered cup position can be registered in association with the date, and if the registration date is not the date of the current play, it can be not displayed (the cup position information cannot be used). It is also advisable to provide a real-time clock in the control unit 18 and record date and time information in association with the position information.

[0059] In the above embodiment, the cup position is registered by moving to the actual cup position, but it can also be registered by manual operation without moving to the actual cup position. This manual cup position registration process can be performed while actually playing at the golf course, or while not playing. Registration while not playing can be performed on the golf course, or before arriving at the golf course. Examples of a state where a player is not playing on the golf course include the time between arriving at the golf course on the morning of the day of play and going to the course to be played (the first hole), or when the player is in the clubhouse for lunch or other waiting time that occurs after playing the first nine holes and before the start of the second nine holes.

[0060] 12 shows the algorithm for the registration process when not playing. First, when the power button 4 is operated to turn on the power, the control unit 11 displays a predetermined main menu screen on the display unit 3 (S1, S2). When the control unit 11 detects that "cup registration" has been selected (by pressing the touch panel, etc.) from the processing items listed on the menu screen (not shown), it searches for golf courses registered in the golf course data storage unit 12 based on the current location information obtained from the GPS receiving unit 6 (S4).

[0061] If a golf course corresponding to the current location exists, the control unit 11 displays a golf course selection screen for that golf course on the display unit 3 (S5). That is, golf courses typically have multiple courses, each consisting of nine holes. For example, a golf course consisting of 18 holes may have an out course and an in course. In such a case, the order in which the courses are played is determined by which course is played first. Furthermore, in golf courses with three or more courses (27 holes), each course is given a name and the order in which the courses are played (Course A → Course B → Course C) is determined. Therefore, particularly in golf courses with three or more courses, a player playing one round may not play some courses that day. Since the user only needs to register the courses they will actually play, the device is provided with a function for selecting the course for which the cup position (pin position) is to be registered.

[0062] That is, the control unit 11 displays a list of the name of the golf course and the names of the courses at that golf course, and prompts the user to register the course from which to start. The control unit 11 determines the position touched on the touch panel and identifies the corresponding course name to select the course. The user may select multiple courses or one course.

[0063] In addition, if the golf course has three or more courses, by storing information on the order of play for each course as data on the golf course, when the specification of the starting course is accepted, the next course to be played after that course can be identified. Therefore, even when one course is selected as described above, once the registration of all holes on that course has been completed, the control unit 11 should have a function to identify the next course to be played based on the information on the order of play and prompt the user to register the first hole on that course.

[0064] On the other hand, if GPS location detection is not possible, the system switches to manual selection mode (S6), and the control unit 11 identifies a golf course according to the user's input and displays a golf course selection screen for the identified golf course on the display unit 3 (S7). Golf course selection can be performed by entering keywords such as "reading kana" (hiragana / alphabet) or "phone number" to search for matching golf courses, or by entering a region and displaying a list of matching golf courses to prompt selection, or by combining these methods. Region input can be performed by gradually narrowing the area (such as region → prefecture → ...), and selection can be made by text input or from a list display. Alternatively, a map can be drawn and the area can be gradually narrowed (by enlarging the drawn map) to specify the desired golf course. The golf course selection process in processing step S7 can be essentially the same as processing step S5. Furthermore, providing an input screen for specifying the hole to be input in one or both of processing steps S5 and S7 allows for more detailed settings. For example, if the pin position is known to a certain extent on a frequently visited course, or if it can be seen visually from the hole being played (fairway / rough) and the player can easily mentally correct any deviation from the center position, it is sufficient to display the reference cup position and the remaining distance to that position, in which case the cup position registration process can be omitted. Of course, as explained below, it is possible to avoid the actual input process by skipping the input of the corresponding hole in the cup position registration process, but by specifying the hole to be input in advance, skipping the process becomes unnecessary and the input process becomes even simpler.

[0065] Next, the control unit 11 executes the cup position input operation (S8). The control unit 11 reads data for the first hole of the course specified in the pre-processing (S5, S7) from the golf course data storage unit 12, and displays a cup position input screen on the display unit 3. In this embodiment, the following four methods are available for specifying the cup position input, and the user can select which method to use by setting it on the menu screen.

[0066] <Block input method> As shown in FIG. 13, the control unit 11 draws a screen simulating the green G of the corresponding hole on the display unit 3, and overlays a lattice frame K that covers the entire green. The user visually checks a cup position map prepared by the golf course and touches and selects a location that appears to be the closest within the area defined by the lattice frame K. The control unit 11 determines that the touched location is the cup position. Note that although the shape of the green G is shown as a circle in the drawing, in reality it should approximate the shape of the green of an actual hole.

[0067] To obtain information about the actual cup position, golf courses use a paper (cup position map) that shows the cup position (pin position) for the day, which is placed in the cart or carried by the caddy. Of course, it is not limited to such paper, and users can confirm and register the cup position based on information provided through various media provided by the golf course (such as the website or signs displaying green information).

[0068] The number of grids that make up this grid frame K can be changed arbitrarily (e.g., 10 vertical x 10 horizontal, 3 vertical x 10 horizontal), or it can be a fixed value (5 vertical x 5 horizontal). The grid frame K is a collection of multiple grids divided into n x m grids, but one of the grids can have a value of "1." In particular, players usually attack from just in front of the green, and the remaining distance to the cup is more affected by the deviation in the depth direction in the front-to-back direction than by the deviation in the width direction from the center position on the green. For this reason, it is possible to simplify the setting by dividing only the front-to-back direction without dividing it in the width direction. The pin based on this registered cup position is displayed at a representative point, such as the center of the grid.

[0069] <How to enter numbers> As shown in FIG. 14, the control unit 11 prepares a screen simulating a green G on the screen and inputs distances X and Y from specific positions (P1, P2) as numerical values. The specific positions P1 and P2 can be, for example, the right end (P1) and front end (P2) of the green. The distances X and Y are input by touching numerical input boxes B1 and B2 provided on the display screen. That is, when the control unit 11 detects that either area of ​​the numerical input box B1 or B2 has been touched, the control unit 11 draws a numeric keypad input button area on the display unit 3, receives input from the user using the numeric keypad, and displays the corresponding number in the numerical input box B1 / B2. Then, when the confirm button is pressed, the control unit 11 erases the numeric keypad input button area and draws a mark M at the point specified by X and Y. The user determines whether the position is correct based on the position of the mark M on the green G and the numerical values ​​displayed in the numerical input boxes. If correct, the user touches a registration button area (not shown) displayed in a predetermined position on the display unit 3.

[0070] <Guessing input method> In the case of a device equipped with a touch panel, as shown in Fig. 15(a), the control unit 11 draws a screen simulating green G on the screen of the display unit 3. Then, the control unit 11 detects the touched position on the green G and determines that position as the cup position.

[0071] 15(b), in the case of a device that does not have a touch panel, the control unit 11 draws a screen that resembles green G on the screen of the display unit 3, and draws an arrow pointer superimposed on a reference position (such as the center of the green). Then, the control unit 11 receives instructions from an input device such as a button switch or a remote control, and moves the arrow pointer up, down, left, and right to determine the position.

[0072] The control unit 11 associates the cup position determined using any of the above input methods with the hole number and registers it in an internal / external memory such as RAM / memory (such as the storage device 18) (S9).

[0073] After this registration, the control unit 11 determines whether a next hole exists (S10), and if so, returns to processing step S8, switches to the next hole as the processing target, and executes the cup position input operation. The determination of whether a next hole exists may be made by the control unit 11 automatically determining whether a next hole exists on the same course as the hole currently being processed, for example, from the golf course data registered in the golf course data storage unit 12, or by the control unit 11 drawing a button area at a predetermined position on the display unit 3 for inputting whether a next hole exists and detecting which button area is touched. Furthermore, when making an automatic determination, the process may be set to end once input has been completed up to the final hole on the same course, or the first hole on the next course may be set to be processed.

[0074] An interrupt (end) button area is displayed on each screen that transitions during this cup position registration process, and the control unit 11 terminates the process when it detects that the interrupt (end) button area has been touched. Also, if the process is terminated with registration partially completed and then the above processing steps are executed again to select a golf course, the control unit 11 searches for whether or not a cup position has been registered for each hole on the course to be processed, and selects unregistered holes as the target holes for processing, and executes processing step S8 and subsequent steps for the target holes.

[0075] If it is not possible to register the cup positions for all holes before play begins due to factors such as starting time, you can register the cup positions up to a certain point and then register the cup positions during play as described below, or you can register the cup positions for the first half of the course before the start and register the cup positions for the second half of the course during a break such as lunch.

[0076] FIG. 16 shows another algorithm for the registration process when not in play. In this example, when the power button 4 is pressed to turn on the power, the control unit 11 displays a predetermined main menu screen on the display unit 3 (S11, S12). When the control unit 11 detects that "Cup Registration (Data Use)" has been selected (e.g., by pressing the touch panel) from among the processing options listed on the menu screen (not shown), it acquires and registers the GPS coordinates of the cup position for each hole registered in the storage device 18 (e.g., a media card) or an external storage device via a USB cable connected to the USB terminal 9 (S14). To utilize this function, the golf course (golf club) can publish the location information (longitude and latitude) of the cup position for the current day or the next day on its website or on a computer (server) installed at the golf course. The published data can be acquired in advance via the Internet or the like and stored on a recording medium such as a media card, or the data can be acquired by connecting to a computer installed at the golf course via a USB cable. This process allows for the accurate registration of cup positions in a single operation.

[0077] 17 shows the algorithm for the registration process during play. While the golf navigation mode is running, the control unit 11 displays a menu screen (S21). When the control unit 11 detects that "Cup Registration" has been selected from the menu screen (S22), the control unit 11 proceeds to inputting the cup position (S23).

[0078] This cup position input operation begins with identifying the course to be processed. That is, the control unit 11 determines which hole the user is currently on based on the current position information acquired from the GPS receiving unit 6 and the layout of each hole (with position information) of the golf course. The control unit 11 then selects the hole currently being played as the processing target, reads the green information for that hole, and displays a cup position input screen on the display unit 3. After the hole to be processed has been determined in this way, the cup position input process is carried out in the same manner as the four input processes described above.

[0079] Some golf courses do not provide specific information about the cup location as described above, but instead indicate the cup location by changing the color of a flag attached to the top of the flagpole or by the position of a ball attached to the flagpole that can slide up and down. In such cases, the cup location is reported as a rough indication, such as in front of the green, in the center, or at the back. Therefore, in the block input method using a grid frame, it is recommended to use one grid in the horizontal direction and multiple grids in the front-to-back direction (three in the figure, but four or more grids are acceptable), as shown in Figure 13(b).

[0080] The control unit 11 associates the cup position specified by various input methods with the hole information and registers it in a predetermined storage device (S24). Next, the control unit 11 determines whether there is a next hole (S25). If there is a next hole, the control unit 11 switches the hole to be processed to that next hole and returns to processing step S23. Then, when the registration of all holes is completed, the branch determination in processing step S25 becomes No, and the process returns to processing step S21. The processing of processing steps S24 and S25 can be similar to processing steps S9 and S10.

[0081] Furthermore, in processing step S23, if the cup position for the hole at the current position has already been registered, the next hole will be processed. This allows cup position information to be registered sequentially while playing, for example, while traveling in a cart. Particularly in the case of a golf course where cup position information is provided on the cart, processing can be performed smoothly by registering at a location where green information (cup position information) is available. Furthermore, the user can avoid delays in play by dividing the registration process into small increments, such as for one or more holes, while traveling in a cart. Furthermore, as mentioned above, in the case of golf information in which cup position information is reported based on the state of the flagstick (pin), the cup position can only be registered while actually playing, so it is convenient to be able to perform registration processing while playing in this way.

[0082] In addition, once the registration of the cup position for one hole is completed, the control unit 11 automatically displays the cup position selection screen for the next hole, allowing multiple courses to be continuously registered while traveling by cart.

[0083] The cup position information registered as described above can be used to calculate the remaining distance from the current position to the cup, as mentioned above, but it is also preferable to draw a flag icon I5 at a position corresponding to the registered cup position along with a diagram of the green of the hole currently being played, as this makes it easier to imagine the condition of the green even when hitting from a raised green or a location where the green cannot be seen directly due to a dogleg.

[0084] Furthermore, when the control unit 11 detects that the current position is moving to the position of the next hole, it determines whether the cup position for the next hole has already been registered. If it has not been registered, it displays a registration screen and prompts the user to register the cup position. That is, it executes processing step S23. By automatically displaying the registration screen in this manner, the user does not need to operate the screen to load the cup registration screen. Furthermore, even if the user does not remember how far the cup has been registered for the intermediate holes, the user can know by automatically displaying the registration screen when the user reaches an unregistered hole. Furthermore, registering the cup position while moving to the next hole is preferable because it not only effectively utilizes travel time and prevents delayed play, but also provides an opportunity to consider strategies for the next hole and allows the user to come up with more effective strategies by checking the cup position.

[0085] Furthermore, if the cup position for the next hole has already been registered, the control unit 11 does not prompt the player to register the cup positions for subsequent holes that have not yet been registered, but instead displays a schematic diagram of the green that reflects the registered cup positions and a schematic diagram of the entire course alternately or simultaneously on one screen. This allows the player to consider strategies for playing while moving around by looking at the green and course that accurately reflect the cup positions.

[0086] Furthermore, by providing the above-described function of automatically drawing the cup position registration screen, the user can input the cup position for the appropriate hole at the appropriate location. Furthermore, since no specific processing is required to load the input screen, the user can concentrate on playing the game. Furthermore, in addition to detecting that the user is moving to the next hole, the condition for automatically drawing the cup position registration screen at the appropriate location can also be detected as a condition for detecting that the cart is moving even during actual play of the hole. In such a case, the control unit 11 may identify the hole currently being played based on the current position information obtained from the GPS receiver 6, determine whether cup position information for that hole has been registered, and draw the registration screen if it has not. The determination of whether the cart is moving may be made, for example, when the moving speed exceeds the normal walking speed (above a certain speed). Furthermore, some golf courses have designated areas (cart paths) where carts can be driven. In such cases, the control unit 11 may determine that the user is moving by cart if it detects that the current position is within the designated cart-driveable area. Furthermore, for example, if a player carrying this device goes to the cart to retrieve clubs and selects and removes the necessary clubs from their golf bag, they will be considered to be within the area where the cart can be driven. Therefore, in addition to being within the area where the cart can be driven, it is also advisable to add the condition that the player is moving (regardless of speed), and determine that the player is moving with the cart when both conditions are met. In this way, even if the cart is moving slowly (similar to a person's walking or running speed), it is possible to detect the cart as moving, and if the player is simply going to retrieve clubs, there is almost no movement, which prevents false detection.

[0087] Furthermore, if the control unit 11 detects that the current position obtained from the GPS receiving unit 6 is within a golf course and detects the speed and trajectory corresponding to movement by cart to the first hole, it may display a screen asking, "Do you want to register today's cup position?"

[0088] It is also preferable for the device to have a communication (data exchange) function with other devices via wireless communication (including infrared communication) or wired communication. In this way, when multiple people with the same type of device play at the same golf course, one person can register the cup position and then use the communication function to transfer the registered data to other devices, eliminating the need for everyone to register the cup position information and making cup position registration easier. This function can also be used by someone (one device) to register the cup positions for all holes and then transfer or distribute the data to other devices, or by having multiple devices each register cup position information for different holes and exchange information, allowing cup position registration to be completed in a short amount of time. In particular, when considering input during play on a self-play course, it is difficult for the person driving the cart to input cup positions, so it is advantageous to be able to use data registered by others.

[0089] The golf support device may further include an in-vehicle mode, such as a road map display function that displays the roads on which the vehicle is traveling when installed in a vehicle. The golf support device may be configured to be switchable between this mode and the golf mode, which is a function of the golf support device described above. The mode may be switched by, for example, providing a switch button connected to the control unit 11, and the control unit 11 detecting the operation of the switch button to switch the mode.

[0090] The road map display function can be realized by a configuration used in known navigation devices, etc. For example, it can be realized by storing road map information including road position information in the storage device 18, acquiring the current position from the GPS receiving unit 6, reading out road map information for positions within a predetermined range from the current position from the storage device 18, and displaying the roads at the corresponding positions on the display unit 3.

[0091] Furthermore, the location information acquired from the GPS receiver 6 may be stored as needed while the road map display function is being executed, and when the function is switched to the golf support function, the golf course currently being played and displayed by the golf support function may be identified based on the location information stored while the road map display function is being executed. For example, the golf course closest to the location information stored while the road map display function is being executed may be searched from the golf course data storage unit 12, and that golf course may be identified as the golf course currently being played.

[0092] The in-vehicle mode may be provided with a function for providing driving information related to the current location, instead of or including a road map display function. Alternatively, instead of a switching button, the following configuration may be used. For example, a portable golf support device 1 equipped with a golf support function for providing golf information related to golf courses and a cradle (cradle body) for installing the golf support device 1 in a predetermined location in a vehicle may be provided. The golf support device 1 is detachable from the cradle, and in the portable mode in which it operates when removed from the cradle, it activates a golf mode that operates using a built-in battery. On the other hand, when the golf support device 1 is attached to the cradle, it receives power from the vehicle via the cradle to charge the battery and activates an in-vehicle mode that operates using power supplied from the vehicle. In the in-vehicle mode, a driving information provision function that notifies the user of driving information that is useful while driving is activated. Which mode to operate in is determined by whether or not power is supplied from the cradle. The control unit 11 switches to the in-vehicle mode when power is supplied from the cradle, and when power is lost from the cradle in the in-vehicle mode, it stores the current position information at that time and switches to a suspended state. When started up without power from the cradle, it may start up in the golf mode and identify the golf course currently being played to be displayed by the golf support function based on the stored current position information. The process of identifying the golf course to be displayed in the golf mode based on the current position information stored in the in-vehicle mode may be executed only when the GPS receiver 6 is in a non-positioning state in the golf mode.

[0093] Also, when starting the golf mode, the control unit 11 may display a message such as "Do you want to register the cup position?" on the display unit 3, and then perform processing to identify the golf course if the cup position is not registered, or after the cup position registration function has completed registration of the cup position.

[0094] In this way, even if the current position cannot be determined by the GPS receiver 6 at the golf course, the golf course currently being played can be immediately displayed based on the position information determined in in-vehicle mode. In particular, at golf courses, stable positioning may be difficult due to tree shade, but the golf course can be immediately displayed using the positioning results from a wide area, such as a parking lot, where GPS positioning is easy. Furthermore, due to the characteristics of GPS, the GPS receiver 6 may not be able to determine position or the accuracy may be insufficient immediately after power-on or resuming from suspend mode. However, by using position information based on the results of continuous positioning in in-vehicle mode to identify the golf course currently being played, the golf course can be immediately and accurately identified and displayed.

[0095] <Practice Mode> This practice mode is suitable for checking distances when practicing approaches. In this practice mode, the distance traveled from a registered starting point is displayed in real time in the travel distance display area R6. This allows, for example, the user to check the distance to a net or other target when practicing approaches. Specifically, when the control unit 11 recognizes that the "Practice Mode" button has been touched on the menu screen, it activates the practice mode and displays a practice mode screen such as that shown in FIG. 11. The course displayed in this practice mode is virtual. By displaying a virtual golf course in this way, the user is given a more realistic feel, making the game more interesting. In particular, displaying the green creates the feeling of practicing approaches, which also encourages practice.

[0096] Next, the user registers the starting point. That is, the user touches the registration button B7 provided on the display screen at the location where the ball will be hit. When the control unit 11 recognizes that the registration button B7 has been touched, it acquires the current location at that time from the GPS receiving unit 6 and registers it as the starting point.

[0097] Next, the user moves to a target location or a location where a net or the like will be placed. The control unit 11 calculates the distance from the registered starting point location to the current location and displays it in the travel distance display area R6 ("40" is displayed in the figure). The user then determines the distance from the location where the ball will be hit from the value displayed in the travel distance display area R6, and when it reaches the desired distance for practice, the user places a target at that location. This allows the user to accurately set the location where the ball will be hit and the distance to the target.

[0098] The user then returns to the ball-hitting position and hits the ball toward the target. This allows the user to hone their sense of distance and improve their practical skills, making it ideal for practicing approaches. This practice mode is ideal for practicing hitting from a set distance, such as 20 or 40 yards, in a backyard or driving range. [Explanation of symbols]

[0099] 1. Golf support device 2 cases 3 Display section 5 Location registration button 11 Control section 12 Golf course data storage section 17 Batteries

Claims

1. 1. A golf support device having a function of displaying an image showing a hole layout based on a storage means for storing an image showing a hole layout together with an initial cup position for each of a plurality of holes, the device comprising: a function for identifying a golf hole that the user is playing; a function of registering the cup position of the specified hole in response to a user operation; a function of displaying an image showing the layout of the first hole together with the registered cup position when it is specified that a first hole will be played on a predetermined day, and when there is a cup position registered as the cup position for the predetermined day for the first hole, and when there is no registered cup position, displaying an image showing the layout of the first hole together with the default cup position; A golf assist device having:

2. 1. A golf support device having a function of displaying an image showing a hole layout based on a storage means for storing an image showing a hole layout together with an initial cup position for each of a plurality of holes, the device comprising: a function for identifying a golf hole that the user is playing; a function of registering the cup position of the specified hole in response to a user operation; When a first hole is specified to be played, displaying an image showing the layout of the first hole along with a default cup position; When it is determined that a second hole is to be played after the first hole, displaying an image showing the layout of the second hole together with an initial cup position; a function of displaying an image showing the layout of the first hole together with a cup position registered for the first hole when it is determined that the first hole will be played on a predetermined date after the second hole, if the cup position for the first hole has been registered as the cup position for the predetermined date; A golf assist device having:

3. A program for causing a computer to realize the functions of the golf support device according to claim 1 or 2.

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