Golf practice system, cup unit of said golf practice system, pin unit of said golf practice system, club unit of said golf practice system, control unit of said golf practice system, terminal device of said golf practice system, support aid of said golf practice system, and support pin of said golf practice system

Abstract

The disclosed golf practice system (S) is equipped with: a cup (2) which recesses away from a golf ball rolling surface; a hitting area (T2) which has a golf ball rolling surface and is separated from the cup (2); a rod-shaped pin (5) which functions as the cup (2) marker and is removably installed in the cup (2) in an upright orientation; a golf club (1) for hitting a golf ball (3) from any position in the hitting area (T2); and a first irradiation device (54) which is installed at the pin 5 and emits a guiding laser beam which presents a straight line from the pin 5 toward the hitting area T2.

Description

[Amendment under Rule 26 01.02.2023] Golf practice system, cup unit in the golf practice system, pin unit in the golf practice system, club unit in the golf practice system, control unit in the golf practice system, terminal device in the golf practice system, auxiliary equipment in the golf practice system, and auxiliary pin in the golf practice system

[0001] The present invention relates to a golf practice system, a cup unit in the golf practice system, a pin unit in the golf practice system, a club unit in the golf practice system, a control unit in the golf practice system, a terminal device in the golf practice system, an auxiliary device in the golf practice system, and an auxiliary pin in the golf practice system.

[0002] A putter equipped with a laser illuminator has been known as a technology for assisting practice of hitting (putting) using a golf club. One example of a putter equipped with a laser illuminator is a putter with a laser illuminator mounted on the head (see Patent Document 1). In this putter, the laser light emitted from the laser illuminator can be used to guide the hitting direction of the ball and the orientation of the face of the head.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-204846

[0004] However, for accurate putting, it is necessary to take into account not only the direction of impact of the ball and the orientation of the face, but also various other factors, such as the user's form, swing rhythm, the user's habits, skill level, etc. Therefore, the above-mentioned conventional technology does not sufficiently take these points into consideration, and there is room for improvement in terms of increasing the effectiveness of practice.

[0005] One of the objectives of the present invention, which was conceived in light of the above-mentioned problems, is to improve the effectiveness of golf practice in a golf practice system. In addition to this objective, another objective of the present invention is to achieve the effects derived from the various components shown in the "Description of the Invention" below, which cannot be obtained with conventional technology.

[0006] (1) The golf practice system of this case comprises a cup provided on the rolling surface (golf ball rolling surface) of a golf ball hit by a golf club, a hitting area spaced apart from the cup and having the golf ball rolling surface, a rod-shaped pin that is inserted and removed from the cup and serves as a marker for the cup, and a first illuminator attached to the pin that irradiates a guide laser beam in a straight line from the pin toward the hitting area.

[0007] (2) The golf practice system of the present invention also includes a golf practice machine having a cup provided on the rolling surface (golf ball rolling surface) of a golf ball hit by a golf club, and a hitting area separated from the cup and having the golf ball rolling surface, wherein a user standing in the hitting area hits the golf ball with the golf club toward the cup; a cup unit attached to the cup and having a first detection means for detecting cup-in information of the golf ball and a first transmission device for transmitting the cup-in information to an external device; a pin unit attached to a rod-shaped pin that marks the cup and having a first imaging means for taking an image from the pin toward the hitting area, a second transmission device for transmitting image data taken by the first imaging means to an external device, and a first irradiator for irradiating a guide laser beam from the pin toward the hitting area; and a golf practice machine attached to a head of a golf club used by the user in the hitting area and having a hitting device for detecting a hitting result of the ... a club unit having a second detection means for detecting shot information, a second photographing means for photographing an image from the head forward, a second irradiator for irradiating a guide sub-laser light from the head forward, and a third transmission device for transmitting the shot information and second image data photographed by the second photographing means to an external device; a first receiving device for receiving at least one of the cup-in information transmitted from the first transmitting device, the first image data transmitted from the second transmitting device, and the shot information and the second image data transmitted from the third transmitting device as monitor information; a control unit having a control device for generating guide information for providing guidance for the user's golf play based on the monitor information, and a fourth transmitting device for transmitting the guide information to an external device; a second receiving device for receiving the guide information transmitted from the fourth transmitting device, and a presenter for presenting guidance for golf play based on the guide information, and a terminal device portable by the user.

[0008] (3) This is a cup unit in the golf training system described in (2) above. (4) This is a pin unit in the golf training system described in (2) above. (5) This is a club unit in the golf training system described in (2) above. (6) This is a control unit in the golf training system described in (2) above. (7) This is a terminal device in the golf training system described in (2) above.

[0009] (8) This case is an auxiliary device for the golf practice system described in (1) or (2) above, which is arranged to provide the user with guidance on the direction of launch of the golf ball, and is characterized by comprising: a plate portion that serves as a cup marker on the golf ball rolling surface; a ball position marker that is arranged spaced apart from the plate portion in the left-right direction; and a laser light source that irradiates the user with laser light for guiding the direction of launch of the ball.

[0010] (9) The present invention also provides an auxiliary pin in the golf practice system described in (1) or (2) above, which is arranged to provide the user with guidance on the direction of launch of the golf ball, and is characterized by comprising a rod-shaped pin positioned behind the cup, and a laser light source attached to the pin that irradiates laser light toward the user to guide the direction of launch of the ball.

[0011] According to the disclosed golf practice system, the effectiveness of practice can be improved.

[0012] 7 is an explanatory diagram showing the overall configuration of a golf practice system according to a first embodiment; FIG. 8 is a front view of a portion of a golf club used in the golf practice system of FIG. 1; FIG. 9 is a plan view of the golf club of FIG. 2; (a) to (d) are plan views illustrating examples of golf club heads; (a) is a front view and (b) is a side view of a modified version of the golf club shown in FIGS. 2 and 3; (a) is a front view and (b) is a side view of another modified version of the golf club shown in FIGS. 2 and 3; (a) is a front view and (b) is a side view of the same; (a) is an explanatory diagram of an example configuration of a cup to which the cup unit of FIG. 1 is attached; (a) is an explanatory diagram of a receptacle portion provided in the cup of FIG. 7, and (b) is an explanatory diagram of a state in which the receptacle portion is tilted; (a) and (b) are explanatory diagrams of an example configuration of an extendable rod mechanism attached to the cup of FIG. 7; (a) and (b) are explanatory diagrams of an example configuration of a extendable rod mechanism; (a) to (c) are explanatory diagrams of an example configuration of a pin used in the golf practice system of FIG. 1; (b) is an explanatory diagram of an example configuration of a pin; (c) is an explanatory diagram of an example configuration of a first sensor in a cup; 20(a) and 20(b) are modified examples of the arrangement of the first sensor in the cup. FIG. 18(a) shows a state in which the receptacle portion is raised. FIG. 18(b) shows a state in which the receptacle portion is raised. FIG. 19 shows a state in which the sensor casing is further raised. FIG. 20 shows a state in which the sensor casing is further raised. FIG. 18(a) shows a state in which the sensor casing is raised and separated from the receptacle portion 2B without raising the receptacle portion. FIG. 20(a) shows a state in which the receptacle portion is raised and separated from the receptacle portion 2B. FIG. 20(b) shows a state in which the receptacle portion is raised. FIG. 20(a) shows a state in which the receptacle portion is raised and separated from the receptacle portion 2B. FIG. 20(b) shows a state in which the receptacle portion is raised. FIG. 20(b) shows a state in which the receptacle portion is raised. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing a modified arrangement of the telescopic rod mechanism, Fig. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a mini pin attached to a cup, Fig. 12 is an explanatory diagram of a modified arrangement of the mini pin attached to the cup.1 is a schematic diagram of smart glasses applied as a terminal device in a golf practice system according to an embodiment, and a user wearing the smart glasses. 2 is a schematic diagram of VR goggles applied as a terminal device in a golf practice system according to an embodiment, and a user wearing the VR goggles. 3 (a) and (b) are explanatory diagrams of a cup with a solar panel attached as a modified cup. 4 (a) to (c) are configuration examples in which a solar panel is attached to a pin. 5 (a) to (d) are configuration examples of a pin formed by connecting multiple members. 6 (a) to (c) are configuration examples of an auxiliary terminal device.

[0013] [1. Overall Configuration] In the following embodiment, a golf practice system according to one embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the overall configuration of the golf practice system. This golf practice system S includes a golf practice machine T for putting practice. As is well known, putting in golf is the act of hitting a golf ball with a golf club (typically a "putter") to put the ball into a hole called a cup (cup-in). Note that the golf practice machine T is not limited to putting practice using a putter, but can also be used for swing practice using golf clubs other than putters, such as drivers and irons.

[0014] The practice machine T has a cup area T1 in which a cup 2 is provided on the golf ball rolling surface, and a hitting area T2, spaced apart from the cup 2 and having a golf ball rolling surface, which serves as a hitting position for a user. The practice machine T may be, for example, a practice green, in which case the cup 2 is recessed relative to the golf ball rolling surface of the cup area T1. As another example, the practice machine T may be a golf practice mat. In this case, the cup 2 is not recessed, but is provided as a predetermined area (flat surface) on the golf ball rolling surface. Also, in the case of a golf practice mat, the cup 2 may be formed as a shallow depression on the mat. In other words, the cup 2 is not limited to a hole, but may be any target position for putting the golf ball. The following description will focus on the case where the cup 2 is a hole recessed relative to the golf ball rolling surface. The practice machine T is equipment for a user (golfer) standing in the hitting area T2 to practice putting by using a golf club 1 to hit a ball 3 toward the cup 2 provided in the cup area T1. The golf ball rolling surface is the surface on which the hit ball 3 rolls, and is the floor surface of the cup area T1 and the hitting area T2.

[0015] In this embodiment, the directions used in explaining the golf practice system S are defined as follows: Using the user putting in the hitting area T2 as a reference, the direction from the user toward the cup 2 is "front" (marked "F" in the figure), and the opposite side of "front" is "back" (marked "B" in the figure), and "left" and "right" (marked "L" and "R" in the figure) are defined based on "front." In addition, "up" and "down" (marked "U" and "D" in the figure) are defined based on the direction in which gravity acts.

[0016] As shown in Figure 1, the cup 2 provided in the cup area T1 of the training machine T is positioned forward of the hitting area T2. A pin 5 made of a rod-shaped member is erected on the cup 2. The pin 5 serves as a marker for the cup 2 for the user in the hitting area T2.

[0017] The golf practice system S of FIG. 1 includes a cup unit 20 attached to the cup 2, a pin unit 50 attached to the pin 5, a club unit 70 attached to the golf club 1, and a photography unit 60 arranged in the hitting area T2.

[0018] In addition to these units 20, 50, 60, and 70, the system S also includes a control unit 30 that manages the system S, and a terminal device 40 owned by the user. The devices 20 to 70 in the system S are connected via a wireless communication network so that they can exchange data, and can operate in cooperation with each other. The wireless communication network is a network that complies with well-known wireless communication standards such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0019] The overview of the present system S is that, based on monitor information acquired by the units 20, 50, 60, and 70, the control unit 30 generates guide information for providing guidance to the user's golf play, and the control unit 30 transmits the guide information to the terminal device 40, etc., which then provides guidance based on the guide information to the user in advance (in advance), for example, before the user hits the ball. In other words, the present system S is a system in which the devices 20 to 70 work together via a network to provide interactive guidance for the user's golf practice. The guidance includes advice on golf play and model plays to the user. Specifically, advice and model plays include hitting form, golf club swing rhythm, ball launch direction, timing, etc.

[0020] The monitor information acquired by the units 20, 50, 60, and 70 in the system S is the measurement results of the user's golf play. The monitor information includes multiple video data, cup-in information, ball hitting information, golf club head angle, etc. The cup unit 20, pin unit 50, club unit 70, and photographing unit 60 are monitor information sources that provide the control unit 30 with the monitor information.

[0021] <Cup Unit> The cup unit 20 is built into (attached to) the cup 2 and is a mechanism provided to provide monitor information on the cup 2 to the control unit 30. The cup unit 20 includes a first control mechanism (referred to as the "control mechanism" in the figure) 21, a first sensor (first detection means, referred to as the "sensor" in the figure) 22, and a first communication device (first transmission device, referred to as the "communication device" in the figure) 23. The first control mechanism 21 is an electrical control device configured to include a processor, a storage device, etc. that control the cup unit 20.

[0022] A first sensor 22 and a first communication device 23 are connected to the first control mechanism 21 so as to be able to exchange data. The first sensor 22 is a detection means provided to detect cup-in information indicating that the golf ball 3 has been cupped into the cup 2. The first sensor 22 may be, for example, an impact sensor that detects the impact of the golf ball 3 falling into the cup 2.

[0023] The first communication device 23 is a wireless communication mechanism connected to the control unit 30 (external) via a wireless communication network. The cup unit 20 can transmit a detection signal (cup-in information) of the first sensor 22 to the control unit 30 (external) via the first communication device 23, and can receive information from the external device.

[0024] In addition, the cup unit 20 includes additional devices such as a camera 20X for capturing images of the area around the cup 2, an audio device 20Y including an amplifier, speaker, and microphone, a lighting device 20Z, a laser irradiator 20W, and a power supply (not shown) for supplying power. These devices 21 to 23, 20W, 20X, 20Y, and 20Z, as well as various other devices not shown, may be detachably attached to the cup unit 20 or may be integrally provided with the cup unit 20. Sensors may also be provided, such as a speed sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a magnetic sensor, a biometric authentication sensor, an air pressure sensor (pressure sensor), a temperature sensor, a microphone (sound pressure sensor), a direction sensor, a proximity sensor, a brightness sensor (ambient light sensor), a human presence sensor, an anemometer, a wind vane, an infrared sensor, an infrared camera, and a snow depth meter (such as a snow depth meter based on laser reflection or images captured by a camera). That is, the cup 2 can be configured as a multi-functional "AI cup" that automatically detects whether the golf ball 3 has gone into the cup, outputs sound, performs predetermined functions in response to predetermined voice input such as "Alexa (registered trademark)," "OK Google (registered trademark)," or "Hey Siri (registered trademark)," emits light, and individually identifies the ball 3. When identifying the ball 3 dropped into the cup 2 using the cup unit 20, it is recommended to brighten the inside of the cup 2 using a light source (illumination means, lighting device 20Z in FIG. 1 ) in the cup unit 20 (cup 2). This improves the identification ability when identifying the ball 3 dropped into the cup 2 using the camera 20X (a normal camera) of the cup unit 20.

[0025] <Pin Unit> The pin unit 50 is attached to the pin 5 and is a mechanism provided to provide the control unit 30 with monitor information about the surroundings of the pin 5. The pin unit 50 includes a second control mechanism (referred to as the "control mechanism" in the figure) 51, a first camera (first photographing means, referred to as the "camera" in the figure) 52, a second communication mechanism (second transmitting device, referred to as the "communication mechanism" in the figure) 53, a first illuminator (referred to as the "laser" in the figure) 54, and a second light receiver (referred to as the "light receiver" in the figure) 55.

[0026] The second control mechanism 51 is an electrical control device including a processor, a storage device, etc. that controls the pin unit 50. The second control mechanism 51 is connected to a first camera 52, a second communication device 53, a first illuminator 54, and a second light receiver 55 so as to be able to exchange data.

[0027] The first camera 52 is an image sensor provided to capture video (first video data) around the pin 5. In this embodiment, the first camera 52 is a camera that captures video at least from the pin 5 toward the hitting area T2. As an example, the first camera 52 may be configured as a "360-degree camera" that can capture video in all directions, 360 degrees, in the vertical and horizontal directions, centered on the pin 5. Note that the first camera 52 is not limited to a 360-degree camera, and may also be a camera that captures a range narrower than 360 degrees. Furthermore, the first camera 52 may be configured as a 3D camera.

[0028] The second communication device 53 is a wireless communication mechanism connected to the control unit 30 (external) via a wireless communication network. The second communication device 53 can transmit video data captured by the first camera 52 to the control unit 30 (external) and receive information from the external device. The first illuminator 54 is a light source that emits guide laser light that indicates a straight line from the pin 5 toward the hitting area T2. The straight line indicates the rolling trajectory of the ball 3. The trajectory of the laser light functions as a guide line that indicates the trajectory of the ball 3. Here, the trajectory of the ball 3 is the trajectory connecting the cup 2 to a predetermined hitting position. The second light receiver 55 is a light receiving element (sensing device) that receives (detects) the guide laser light (guide sub-laser light) from the second illuminator 75 provided in the club unit 70 (described later).

[0029] In addition, the pin unit 50 may be provided with additional devices such as an audio device 50X including an amplifier, speaker, and microphone, a lighting device 50Y, a power supply (not shown) for supplying power, a laser irradiator, and an automatic operation mechanism for automatically adjusting various aspects of image capture by the first camera 52 (e.g., focusing, brightness adjustment, tracking of the subject, switching of image capture direction, etc.), which may be detachable from or integral with the pin unit 50. Furthermore, the sensors 50S may be provided with, for example, a speed sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a magnetic sensor, a biometric authentication sensor, an air pressure sensor (pressure sensor), a temperature sensor, a microphone (sound pressure sensor), a direction sensor, a proximity sensor, a brightness sensor (ambient light sensor), a human presence sensor, an anemometer, a wind vane, an infrared sensor, an infrared camera, a snow depth meter (such as a snow depth meter based on laser reflection or images captured by a camera), etc. That is, the pin 5 can be configured as a multi-functional "AI pin" that automatically captures surrounding images, outputs audio, performs predetermined functions in response to predetermined voice inputs such as "Alexa (registered trademark)," "OK Google (registered trademark)," or "Hey Siri (registered trademark)," emits light, and individually identifies the ball 3. When identifying the ball 3 dropped into the cup 2 using the camera 52 of the pin unit 50, it is recommended to illuminate the inside of the cup 2 using a light source (illumination means, lighting device 20Z in FIG. 1 ) attached to the cup unit 20 (cup 2) as described above or the lighting device 50Y of the pin unit 50. This improves the identification of the ball 3 dropped into the cup 2 when using a conventional camera. Furthermore, for example, in poor visibility or during nighttime golf practice (night golf), the light-emitting function (lighting device 50Y) attached to the pin unit 50 can be used to enhance the identification of the pin 5 (i.e., to provide the pin 5 with a lighthouse function). The lighting by the lighting device 50Y attached to the pin 5 provides, for example, illumination, neon, lights, spotlights, rotating spotlights, mirror balls, LED lighting, etc. around the pin 5. The lighting device 50Y attached to the pin 5 turns on when, for example, a human presence sensor included in the sensor 50S of the pin unit 50 detects a person approaching the pin 5.Such lighting function can be switched on and off.

[0030] <Club Unit> The club unit 70 is attached to the head of the golf club 1, and is a mechanism provided to provide monitor information about the area around the head to the control unit 30. The club unit 70 includes a third control mechanism (referred to as the "control mechanism" in the figure) 71, a second camera (second photographing means, referred to as the "camera" in the figure) 72, a third communication mechanism (third transmitting device, referred to as the "communication mechanism" in the figure) 73, a second sensor (second detecting means, referred to as the "sensor" in the figure) 74, a second irradiator (referred to as the "laser" in the figure) 75, a display device (referred to as the "display" in the figure) 76, an acoustic device 77, and a first light receiver (referred to as the "light receiver" in the figure) 78.

[0031] The third control mechanism 71 is an electrical control device including a processor, a storage device, etc. that controls the club unit 70. Each of the elements 72 to 78 is connected to the third control mechanism 71 so as to be able to exchange data. The second camera 72 is an image sensor provided to capture an image (second image data) of the surroundings of the club 1. In this embodiment, the second camera 72 is an imaging means that captures an image at least from the head of the club 1 toward the front.

[0032] The second sensor 74 is a detection means for acquiring impact information related to the impact of the golf ball as monitor information. The second illuminator 75 is a light source that emits a guide laser beam forward from the head of the golf club 1. The trajectory of the laser beam functions as a guide line indicating the trajectory of the ball 3. Here, the trajectory of the ball 3 is a trajectory that is approximately perpendicular to the striking surface of the head and extends linearly forward from the striking surface. The display device 76 is a display device that displays visual information. An example of the display device 76 is an LCD. The audio device 77 is an audio input / output device that includes an amplifier, speaker, and microphone and reproduces audio signals and inputs sound. The first photoreceiver 78 is a photodetector (sensing device) that receives (detects) the guide laser beam from the first illuminator 54 provided in the pin unit 50.

[0033] The third communication device 73 is a wireless communication mechanism connected to the control unit 30 (external) via a wireless communication network. Via the third communication device 73, the video data captured by the second camera 72 and the detection signal of the second sensor 74 can be transmitted to the control unit 30 (external) and information can be received from the external.

[0034] In addition, the club unit 70 may be provided with a lighting device 70Y, a power source for supplying power (not shown), and an automatic operation mechanism for automatically adjusting various aspects of the second camera 72's image capture (e.g., focusing, brightness adjustment, tracking the subject, switching the image capture direction, etc.), which may be detachable from the club unit 70 or integral with the club unit 70. Sensors may also be provided, such as a speed sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a magnetic sensor, a biometric authentication sensor, an air pressure sensor (pressure sensor), a temperature sensor, a microphone (sound pressure sensor), a direction sensor, a proximity sensor, a brightness sensor (ambient light sensor), a human presence sensor, an anemometer, a wind vane, an infrared sensor, an infrared camera, and a snow depth meter (such as a snow depth meter based on laser reflection or images captured by a camera). In other words, the golf club 1 may be configured as an "AI club" with multiple functions, such as automatically capturing images of the surrounding area, detecting impact information, emitting laser light, outputting sound, operating in response to voice command input, and emitting light. The lighting provided by the lighting device 70Y attached to the golf club 1 provides, for example, illumination, neon, lights, spotlights, rotating spotlights, mirror balls, LED lighting, etc. around the golf club 1. The lighting device 70Y attached to the golf club 1 turns on, for example, when a human presence sensor mounted on the golf club 1 detects a person approaching the golf club 1. This lighting function can be switched on and off.

[0035] <Camera Unit> The camera unit 60 is attached to the hitting area T2 of the golf training machine and is a mechanism provided to capture video of the user standing in the hitting area T2 and the user's surroundings, and provide the video data as monitor information to devices in the system S, including the control unit 30 and the terminal device 40. The camera unit 60 in Fig. 1 includes multiple cameras 62. Specifically, the multiple cameras 62 include a left camera 62L (one of the third camera means) and a right camera 62R (one of the third camera means) provided on both the left and right sides of the hitting area T2, a rear camera 62B (one of the third camera means) provided behind the hitting area T2, and a head-mounted head camera 62H (fourth camera means) worn on the user's head.

[0036] The left and right cameras 62L, 62R and the rear camera 62B are imaging means for capturing images (third image data) of the user from both the left and right sides and from behind. The head camera 62H is imaging means for capturing images (fourth image data) of the user's line of sight while practicing golf. The image data captured by the imaging unit 60 is transmitted via a communication device 61 (fifth transmission device) to devices within the system S, such as the control unit 30 and the terminal device 40. The imaging unit 60 includes a control mechanism (not shown) that allows various adjustments related to imaging by the camera 62 (for example, focusing, adjusting brightness, tracking the subject, switching the imaging direction, etc.).

[0037] <Control Unit> The control unit 30 is a computer that manages the system S. The control unit 30 is installed at any location, such as near the training aircraft T or at a system base remote from the training aircraft T. The control unit 30 includes a control device 31, a receiving device (first receiving device, referred to as "receiving device" in the figure) 32, a first transmitting device (referred to as "fourth transmitting device" in the figure) 33, and a storage device 34. The receiving device 32 and transmitting device 33 are devices for sending and receiving data to and from the outside via a wireless communication network.

[0038] The control unit 30 receives various types of video data and sensor detection data acquired by the units 20, 50, 60, and 70 in the system S as monitor information via the receiving device 32. The control device 31 is a device that generates predetermined guide information based on the above monitor information, and is, for example, a processor that has a software program for generating guide information implemented therein. The guide information is information that provides the user with guidance on the above golf play.

[0039] The storage device 34 is a storage for storing various data. The storage device 34 is provided with a temporary storage device for temporarily saving received monitoring information, as well as a database in which the history of monitoring information over a certain period is accumulated in association with ID information for each user. The history of monitoring information is data that is treated as so-called "big data."

[0040] In addition to the monitor information, various other information is stored in the storage device 34. Examples of other information stored in the storage device include training machine information regarding the slope and turf texture of the golf training machine T on which the system S is used, and personal information regarding the user's age, gender, golfing ability, etc. When generating guide information, the control device 31 may take into account not only the received monitor information but also the above-mentioned history and other information. This increases the amount and variety of information taken into account when generating guide information, making it possible to provide the user with higher quality guidance.

[0041] The transmitting device 33 transmits the guide information generated by the control device 31 to the terminal device 40. Furthermore, the transmitting device 33 may transmit the guide information to at least one of the cup unit 20, the pin unit 50, the club unit 70, and the photographing unit 60 (i.e., any device in the system S) in addition to or instead of the terminal device 40. Note that the various functions of the control unit 30, including the guide information generation process in the control device 31, may be provided by cloud computing using computing services on a cloud environment (Internet environment).

[0042] <Terminal Device> The terminal device 40 is a portable information terminal device that can be carried by a user. The terminal device 40 includes a fourth control mechanism (referred to as the "control mechanism" in the figure) 41, a display 42 (presenter, referred to as the "display (presenter)" in FIG. 1), a fourth communication device (second receiving device, referred to as the "communication device" in the figure) 43, and an input device 44. The fourth control mechanism 41 is an electrical control device configured to include a processor and a storage device that implement a software program for overall control of the terminal device 40. The fourth communication device 43 is a wireless communication mechanism connected to the control unit 30 (external) via a wireless communication network. The terminal device 40 can receive guide information from the control unit 30 and transmit various information to the external via the fourth communication device 43.

[0043] The display 42 is an example of a presenting device that displays (presents) a guide based on the guide information to the user using some kind of visual image, such as a moving image or a still image. An example of the display 42 is an LCD. The input device 44 is, for example, a touch panel sensor, a button switch, or the like.

[0044] Examples of presenters other than the display 42 include an audio device 45 (presenter omitted) that outputs sound, a light-emitting lighting device (not shown), and a vibration generating mechanism (not shown) that generates vibrations. When an audio device is used as a guide presenter, guidance for golf play is presented by, for example, music, voice, electronic sounds, sound effects, or some other sound. When a lighting device is used as a guide presenter, guides or support content are displayed by flashing lights or changing the light color. In the case of a vibration generating mechanism, guidance for golf play is presented by vibration.

[0045] In addition, various sensors may be built into the terminal device 40. Examples of sensors include a gyro sensor, a magnetic sensor, a GPS, a biometric authentication sensor, a radar sensor, an air pressure sensor (pressure sensor), a temperature and humidity sensor, a microphone (sound pressure sensor), a direction sensor, a proximity sensor, a brightness sensor (ambient light sensor), an image sensor (camera 46), a vital sensor, a pulse sensor, a body temperature sensor, a moisture sensor, a blood pressure sensor, a distance sensor, a tilt sensor, a terrain sensor, a human presence sensor, an anemometer, a wind vane, an infrared sensor, an infrared camera, and a snow depth meter (such as a snow depth meter based on laser reflection or an image captured by a camera).

[0046] Portable devices used for the terminal device 40 include portable information terminal devices such as smartphones and tablet devices, and wearable devices that can be worn by the user. Alternatively, a well-known golf rangefinder that uses a laser to measure the distance from the user to a target may be used as the terminal device 40. From the viewpoint of achieving both golf play and display visibility, it is preferable to use a wearable device as the terminal device 40.

[0047] Examples of wearable devices include smart glasses, eyeglass-type wearable devices, and smart watches. Among wearable devices, head-mounted wearable devices, such as smart glasses and eyeglass-type wearable devices, are preferred because they allow the user to view guide and support content displays without stopping their golf game. When a head-mounted wearable device is used as the terminal device 40, the head camera 62H of the photographing unit 60 is configured as a camera 46 equipped on the head-mounted wearable device used as the terminal device 40. Additionally, the terminal device 40 may include an audio device (audio input / output device) 45 including earphones, headphones, a microphone, etc. Furthermore, the terminal device 40 may be executable and equipped with an application program for executing the functions of the control unit 30 (such as the overall management function of the system S, the generation and provision of guide information, etc.). In this case, the terminal device 40 may perform the overall management function of the system S, the generation and provision of guide information, etc., together with or in place of the control unit 30.

[0048] [2. Detailed Configuration] Next, a detailed configuration example of the golf club 1, cup 2, and pin 5 used in the present system S will be described. <Golf Club> Fig. 2 is a view of the head 1A of the golf club 1 as seen from the front, facing the striking surface (face) 1B. Fig. 3 is a plan view of the head 1A as seen from above. In this embodiment, the golf club 1 is a putter for right-handed players. Note that the type of golf club 1 is not important, and examples include putters, as well as woods, irons, hybrids, utilities, etc. The present system S is also applicable to golf clubs 1 for left-handed players.

[0049] 2 and 3, the head 1A of the golf club 1 is provided at the lower end of a shaft (not shown), and a grip (not shown) that is held by a user (golfer) is provided at the upper end of the shaft. The shape of the head 1A is not particularly limited. FIGS. 4(a) to 4(d) are plan views illustrating examples of types of putter heads 1A. In FIGS. 2 and 3, the shape of the head 1A is exemplified as a pin type as shown in FIG. 2(a). The head of the golf club 1 is not limited to this, and may be a mallet type head 1AX as shown in FIG. 2(b) or a neo-mallet type head 1AY, 1AZ as shown in FIGS. 2(c) and 2(d).

[0050] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , a mount 7 is detachably attached to the top surface of the head 1A. The mount 7 includes a control mechanism 71 (shown by a broken line), a second camera 72, a communication device 73 (shown by a broken line), a second illuminator 75, a display device 76 (see FIG. 3 ), an acoustic device 77 (shown by a broken line), and a first light receiver 78 (shown by a broken line), all of which are components of the club unit 70. The mount 7 is a base member for attaching the control mechanism 71, the second camera 72, the communication device 73, the second illuminator 75, the display device 76, the acoustic device 77, and the first light receiver 78, all of which are components of the club unit 70, to the head 1A. A second sensor 74 (shown by a broken line), one of the components of the club unit 70, is built into the head 1A. Note that the second sensor 74 is not limited to being built into the head 1A, and may be mounted on the mount 7.

[0051] 2 shows an example in which the lower end of the shaft of the club 1 is connected to the mount 7. It can be said that the shaft is indirectly connected to the head 1A via the mount 7. As another example, the lower end of the shaft may be directly connected to the head 1A. In this case, for example, a through-hole (not shown) that allows the shaft to pass through is drilled in the mount 7, and the shaft is directly connected to the head 1A via the through-hole. In other words, the mount 7 may be pre-attached to the club 1 (genuine type) or may be added to the club 1 afterwards (attached type).

[0052] The mount 7 shown in FIG. 2 is U-shaped when viewed from the front. A second camera 72 and a second illuminator 75 are mounted on a base 7C, which forms the body of the mount 7, on the surface facing the front of the head 1A. The base 7C is subdivided into two side sections 7CL and 7CR, located on the left and right sides, and a central section 7CC located between the two side sections 7CL and 7CR. As shown in FIG. 3, when viewed from above, the forward-facing surfaces of the two side sections 7CL and 7CR are located forward of the central section 7CC. Specifically, the forward-facing surfaces of the two side sections 7CL and 7CR are flush with the striking surface 1B, and the forward-facing surface of the central section 7CC is located rearward of the striking surface 1B.

[0053] The mount 7 is provided with three (one or more) second cameras 72. Specifically, the mount 7 shown in FIG. 2 includes three second cameras 72: a pair of left and right cameras (image sensors) provided on both side portions 7CL and 7CR, and a camera (image sensor) provided in the center of the center portion 7CC in the width direction. These three second cameras 72 are arranged in a line in the width direction on the front-facing surface of the mount 7. Each second camera 72 is positioned on both left and right sides of the head 1A (on both sides of the head 1A in the width direction) with its imaging range covering a predetermined range in front of the head 1A. Of the three cameras, the pair of left and right second cameras 72 are configured as stereo cameras that simultaneously capture video (video data) of a golf ball (object) within its imaging range from different directions. In this way, the imaging range facing forward of the head 1A can be said to overlap with the destination of the golf ball 3 hit by the head 1A. Therefore, each second camera 72 can track and capture the hit golf ball 3. By analyzing the video data captured by the second camera 72 using a computer, the direction of movement, speed, acceleration, direction of rotation, number of rotations, rotation speed, distance, ball quality, etc. of the hit golf ball can be obtained.

[0054] The portions of the side portions 7CL, 7CR and central portion 7CC of the base 7C to which the second camera 72 is attached are capable of protruding forward (see symbols 7CL', 7CR', and 7CC' in FIG. 3) as shown by the two-dot chain lines in Figures 2 and 3, and are also capable of moving up and down (see Figure 2), and are further configured to be rotatable around an axis along the up and down direction. The partial protrusion, up and down movement, and rotation of the side portions 7CL, 7CR, and central portion 7CC are controlled by a control mechanism 71.

[0055] By adjusting the positions of the side portions 7CL, 7CR, the vertical positions of the second cameras 72 provided on the side portions 7CL, 7CR can be adjusted to the same height as the striking surface, and the orientation of the second cameras 72 provided on the side portions 7CL, 7CR can be adjusted toward the center of the striking surface 1B (i.e., capturing images from both sides of the head 1A inward in the width direction). This makes it possible to capture images of both the head 1A and the ball 3 at the moment of impact. By adjusting the position of the center portion 7CC, the second camera 72 provided on the center portion 7CC can be moved forward. The position adjustments of the side portions 7CL, 7CR and the center portion 7CC and the orientation adjustment of the second camera 72 are performed automatically by the control mechanism 71 or manually in response to remote control by the user. Examples of remote control by the user include input of instructions from the terminal device 40 and input of predetermined voice commands. The mount 7 includes a motor, a motor control device, a power supply, and the like as mechanisms for adjusting the positions of the side portions 7CL, 7CR and the central portion 7CC and for adjusting the orientation of the second camera 72. The positions of the side portions 7CL, 7CR and the central portion 7CC and the orientation of the second camera 72 may be adjusted by manual operation by the user without using an electrical mechanism.

[0056] The number of second cameras 72 is not limited to three and may be one or more. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which a pair of left and right cameras are provided instead of a camera in the center in the width direction. Also, a configuration may be adopted in which only one camera (only one) is provided in the center in the width direction in the central portion 7CC instead of a pair of left and right cameras. When a pair of left and right cameras is provided at least on both side portions 7CL, 7CR as the second cameras 72 to form a stereo camera, this is advantageous in that information in the depth direction can also be recorded.

[0057] 2 is provided with three laser light sources 75 arranged in a row in the left-right direction (width direction of the head 1A) on the upper part of the base 7C as second irradiators 75. Specifically, the three laser light sources (second irradiators) 75 include one disposed on each side of the base 7C (sides 7CL and 7CR in FIG. 3) and one disposed in the center of the base 7C in the width direction (reference numeral 7CC in FIG. 3).

[0058] Each of the three laser light sources (second irradiators) 75 is provided so that its mounting angle can be adjusted. By adjusting the angle of the second irradiators 75, the direction in which each second irradiator 75 irradiates laser light can be changed. The angle of each second irradiator 75 is adjusted by a drive mechanism (not shown) built into each second irradiator 75. The angle adjustment is performed automatically by the control mechanism 71 or manually in response to remote operation by the user. Examples of remote operation by the user include input of instructions from the terminal device 40 and input of a predetermined voice command. The angle of each second irradiator 75 may also be adjusted manually by the user without using an electrical mechanism.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 3 , the angles of the three laser light sources (second irradiators) 75 are set so that their laser beams intersect at a single point in the center of the width direction. Specifically, the angle of the central second irradiator 75 is set so that it irradiates laser beams toward the front of the striking surface 1B and perpendicular to the striking surface 1B. The angles of the second irradiators 75 on both the left and right sides are set so that it irradiates laser beams toward the front of the striking surface 1B and at an inclination inward in the width direction of the head 1A. By having the laser beams from the three laser light sources (second irradiators) 75 intersect at a single point (intersection spot 75X), the intersection spot 75X allows the user to check the distance from the head 1A to the forward striking target position. Alternatively, the angles of the three second irradiators 75 may be set so that the laser beams of the second irradiators 75 are parallel to each other.

[0060] The mount 7 (head 1A) may be provided with only either the second camera 72 or the second illuminator 75. In this case, the cost of the club 1 can be reduced. Additionally, the second illuminators 75 are turned on and off automatically by the control mechanism 71 or manually in response to remote control by the user. Examples of remote control by the user include input of instructions from the terminal device 40 and input of predetermined voice commands.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 3 , a display device 76 is detachably attached to the upward-facing surface of the mount portion 7. The display device 76 is attached with its display screen facing upward. The control unit 30 ( FIG. 1 ) may control the display device 76 to display guide information in addition to the terminal device 40. By displaying guide information on the display device 76 provided on the head 1A, the visibility of the guide information is improved during golf shots, improving the effectiveness of practice. The display on / off of the display device 76 is performed automatically by the control mechanism 71 or manually by the user. Examples of manual operation by the user include remote control from the terminal device 40 and operation of a local switch attached to the display device 76. Methods for inputting on / off instructions include switch operation and input of a predetermined voice command.

[0062] A smartphone (not shown) may be attached to the upward surface of the mount unit 7 instead of the display device 76, and the smartphone screen may be used as a display (presenter) for displaying guide information. Furthermore, various sensors and audio devices built into the smartphone attached to the mount unit 7 may be used in the system S. In this case, a mount for attaching the smartphone is provided on the upward surface of the mount unit 7. The mount may have any structure as long as it can detachably attach the smartphone to the mount unit 7. Examples of mounts include a structure that clamps the smartphone, a hook structure, and a close-contact structure.

[0063] FIG. 2 illustrates an example in which two types of sensors, an impact sensor 74A and an angle sensor 74B, are built into the head 1A as the second sensor 74. The impact sensor 74A detects impact data when the striking surface 1B strikes a golf ball. The angle sensor 74B detects the angle of the head 1A when striking a golf ball with the golf club 1. By acquiring various data detected by the second camera 72, the impact sensor 74A, and the angle sensor 74B as monitor information, the user's hitting tendencies (habits) and skill level can be identified. The impact sensor 74A and the angle sensor 74B may be detachably mounted on the head 1A or integrally mounted on the head 1A. The impact sensor 74A and the angle sensor 74B are not limited to being built into the head 1A (internal structure), but may also be detachably mounted on the head 1A or integrally mounted on the head 1A. When the impact sensor 74A and the angle sensor 74B are attached externally to the head 1A, there is no particular limitation, but as an example, they are attached to the surface (rear surface) opposite to the striking surface (front surface) 1B of the head 1A. The impact sensor 74A and the angle sensor 74B do not necessarily have to be provided on the head 1A.

[0064] The control mechanism 71 may be provided outside the mount portion 7 (head 1A). In this case, the elements 72 to 77 of the club unit 70 are communicably connected to the control mechanism 71 provided outside the mount portion 7, and communicate with the external control mechanism 71 or are remotely controlled by the external control mechanism 71.

[0065] In addition to the above, the second sensor 74 of the mount unit 7 may include a speed sensor that detects the speed of the head 1A and an acceleration sensor that detects the acceleration of the head 1A. Other examples of the second sensor 74 include a gyro sensor, a magnetic sensor, a GPS, a biometric authentication sensor, an air pressure sensor (pressure sensor), a temperature and humidity sensor, a microphone (sound pressure sensor), a direction sensor, a proximity sensor, a brightness sensor (ambient light sensor), a vital sign sensor, a pulse sensor, a body temperature sensor, a moisture sensor, a blood pressure sensor, a grip speed sensor, a distance sensor, a tilt sensor, and a terrain sensor. For example, if a pickup sensor (microphone) capable of detecting sound is mounted as the second sensor 74 of the mount unit 7, it can collect the impact sound of the head 1A. The impact sound can be output through earphones or a speaker. In addition, the mount unit 7 may include, as auxiliary or additional functions, a power source (battery) for supplying power to each device, an audio input device including a microphone, and switches for switching various functions on and off (all not shown).

[0066] The structure for attaching the mount unit 7 to the head 1A may be any structure as long as it allows the mount unit 7 to be detachably attached to the head 1A. An example of a structure for attaching the mount unit 7 to the head 1A is a concave-convex structure in which a mating recess is provided on one side of the mount unit 7 or the head 1A and a convex portion is provided on the other side. In this case, the mount unit 7 and the head 1A can be detachably attached by mating the convex portion with the concave portion. Other examples of a structure for attaching the mount unit 7 to the head 1A include a structure in which the mount unit 7 clamps the head 1A, a structure in which the mount unit 7 is hooked onto the head 1A, a structure in which the mount unit 7 is fastened to the head 1A with a metal fitting (hook), a structure in which the mount unit 7 is screwed to the head 1A, and a structure in which the mount unit 7 is tightly attached to the head 1A.

[0067] 5 and 6 show modified examples of the mount unit 7. Elements already described are given the same reference numerals, and their explanations will be omitted. The mount unit 7' shown in Figures 5(a) and 5(b) differs from the mount unit 7 of Figures 2 and 3 in that the head 1A is attached to the mount unit 7' in a "nested" manner, but the other points are the same.

[0068] 2 and 3 in that the lower ends of the front portion 7CF and rear portion 7CB of the base portion 7C' overlap the head 1A when viewed from the front-to-back direction, but the other points are the same. In this case, the mount 7' can be attached to the head 1A by sandwiching the front and rear surfaces of the head 1A between the lower ends of the front portion 7CF and rear portion 7CB. The mount 7' is advantageous in that it does not require fasteners such as screws or any processing to attach the mount 7 to the head 1A.

[0069] The mount 7'' shown in Figures 6(a) and 6(b) differs from the mount 7 shown in Figures 2 and 3 in two respects: first, a light 7E serving as a light source is provided on the upper surface of the base 7C, and second, the forward-facing surfaces of both sides 7CL, 7CR of the base 7C are attached so that they are positioned rearward of the striking surface 1B. The mount 7'' is the same as the mount 7 shown in Figures 2 and 3 in other respects. By illuminating the light 7E upon impact, it becomes easier to visualize the trajectory of the head 1A upon impact. Furthermore, the illumination of the light 7E can add an electric decoration to the golf club 1. This contributes to improving the appearance of golf play, for example, at night or in dimly lit indoors.

[0070] The mount 7" is configured so that its attachment position relative to the head 1A can be moved in the front-to-rear direction. The mount 7" can be attached to the head 1A after its attachment position in the front-to-rear direction can be adjusted to any position. This makes it possible to adjust the front-to-rear positions of the striking surface 1B of the head 1A and the second camera 72 and second illuminator 75. This contributes to improving the accuracy of the guide function using the mount 7". The above-mentioned mounts 7, 7', 7" are not limited to being configured so that they can be detachably attached to the head 1A, but may also be configured so that they are integrally attached to the head 1A.

[0071] <Cup> Next, the specific structure of the cup 2 used in the present system S will be described. Here, as described above, the cup 2 is a hole recessed into the golf ball rolling surface. However, the cup 2 is not limited to this and may be provided as a predetermined area (flat surface) on the golf ball rolling surface, or may be formed as a shallow depression on a mat. As shown in Figure 7, the cup 2 has a hollow cylindrical cup main body 2A with one end open. The dimensions of the cup main body 2A are set to, for example, a diameter of 108 mm and a depth of 101.6 mm or more.

[0072] A cup unit container (hereinafter also simply referred to as "container") 20A is removably mounted inside the cup body 2A on the bottom side opposite the opening. In other words, the container 20A is removably attached to the cup 2.

[0073] The housing body 20A is a casing that houses the cup unit 20. The housing body 20A houses a first control mechanism 21, a first sensor 22, a first communication device 23, etc. The housing body 20A in Fig. 7 is formed of a cylindrical (i.e., doughnut-shaped) member with a hole drilled in the center. The hole 2D drilled in the center of the housing body 20A is an insertion hole for a pin 5 (shown by a dashed line in Fig. 7). Note that the shape of the housing body 20A is not limited to the doughnut shape shown in the figure.

[0074] A tray 2B that forms the bottom surface of the cup 2 is provided on the upper surface side of the container 20A. The tray 2B is provided as a support surface (tray) for a ball 3 that falls into the cup 2, and is attached so as to be movable up and down relative to the cup 2. In Figure 7, the tray 2B is positioned downward and forms the bottom surface of the cup 2.

[0075] FIG. 8( a) shows the tray 2B moved to an upper position by the lifting mechanism 2C. The tray 2B can be raised above the opening of the cup body 2A (cup 2, shown by the dashed line). The lifting mechanism 2C includes a shaft member supporting the tray 2B, which moves up and down, an electric motor for moving the tray 2B up and down, a control device for the electric motor, and a power source. The drive device for the lifting mechanism 2C is not limited to one using an electric motor, and may be any device, such as a hydraulic drive device or a pneumatic drive device. The shaft member supporting the tray 2B may be configured to nest with the pin 5 inserted into the hole 2D. In this case, the tray 2B can be moved up and down with the pin 5 inserted into the hole 2D (with the pin 5 standing).

[0076] As shown in FIG. 8( a), when the tray 2B is moved to the upper position, it protrudes from the cup 2. By moving the tray 2B to the upper position, the ball 3 that has fallen into the cup 2 can be removed from the cup 2. This makes it easy to remove the ball 3 from the cup 2. As an example, the lifting mechanism 2C for the tray 2B is activated based on a voice command input using a predetermined voice (such as "remove the ball"). In this case, the ball 3 can be smoothly removed after the ball goes into the cup. The tray 2B may be raised and lowered not only by the voice command input but also by operation of a remote controller, a detection signal from a sensor (e.g., an infrared sensor) not shown, or the analysis results of video data from a camera. As an example of a remote controller, a remote controller for lifting and lowering the tray 2B may be built into the grip of a golf club. A cover 2Z (shown by a two-dot chain line) may be attached to cover the opening of the cup body 2A when the tray 2B is raised. For example, the cover 2Z is ​​formed as a cylindrical cover extending from the bottom end of the tray 2B to the opening of the cup body 2A. The cover 2Z is ​​accommodated on the bottom surface of the cup body 2A (below the tray 2B) when the tray 2B is lowered, using a well-known contracting structure, such as a bellows or nesting structure. The provision of the cover 2Z prevents the user's hands, feet, dust, and other debris from entering the cup body 2A when the tray 2B is raised. As shown in FIG. 8(b), the tray 2B is configured to be tiltable relative to the lifting mechanism 2C when moved to the upper position. This allows balls 3 placed on the tray 2B to automatically drop from the tray 2B. In other words, the tray 2B is tiltably attached to the lifting mechanism 2C. The lifting mechanism 2C includes a drive device for changing the orientation of the tray 2B from one of a horizontal position and an inclined position to the other. The drive device may be a well-known drive device such as an electric motor, a hydraulic drive device, or a pneumatic drive device.

[0077] Returning to Fig. 7, the cup main body 2A (cup 2) shown in Fig. 7 is provided with a camera-equipped extendable rod mechanism 20B below the container 20A. Figs. 9(a) and (b) show an example of the configuration of the camera-equipped extendable rod mechanism 20B, with (a) showing the extended state and (b) showing the contracted state (contained state).

[0078] The telescopic rod mechanism with camera 20B is provided to take the place of the pin unit 50 and capture images of the area around the cup 2 when the pins 5 are removed from the cup 2. The telescopic rod mechanism with camera 20B is provided with a rod 24 made of a telescopic rod-shaped member, a camera (fifth imaging means) 25 provided at the tip of the rod 24, and a drive mechanism (not shown) for driving the rod 24 to extend and retract. The drive mechanism includes a motor for driving the rod 24 to extend and retract, a motor control device, a power supply, etc. In Figures 9(a) and 9(b), the cup 2, cup main body 2A, container 20A, and telescopic rod mechanism with camera 20B are indicated by two-dot chain lines.

[0079] The rod 24 is disposed below a hole 2D (see FIG. 7) drilled in the center of the container 20A, and is a rod-shaped member that is extendable and retractable along the longitudinal direction (depth direction of the cup 2). The structure for extending and retracting the rod 24 is not particularly limited, but FIG. 9 shows an example of a rod 24 having a nested structure (telescopic structure).

[0080] In the contracted state shown in Fig. 9(b), the tip of the rod 24 is located below the hole 2D. Therefore, in the contracted state of the rod 24, the pin 5 can be inserted into the hole 2D. In the extended state shown in Fig. 9(a), the rod 24 extends upward from the hole 2D, and the camera 25 at the tip protrudes outward from the opening of the cup 2.

[0081] The longitudinal dimension of the rod 24 is set so that in the extended state shown in Figure 9(a), the camera 25 at the tip protrudes outside the cup 2, and in the contracted state shown in Figure 9(b), the tip is positioned below the hole 2D.

[0082] The camera 25 is configured to be able to capture video data at least from the rod 24 (cup 2) toward the hitting area T2 when the rod 24 is extended. As an example, the camera 25 is configured as a "360-degree camera" that can capture images in all directions, 360 degrees, in the vertical and horizontal directions, centered on the rod 24. Note that the camera 25 is not limited to a 360-degree camera, and may be a camera that captures images in a range narrower than 360 degrees. The camera 25 can be considered one of the cameras 20X attached to the cup 2 (cup unit 20). The camera 25 may also be configured as a 3D camera.

[0083] The telescopic rod mechanism with camera 20B is connected to the first control mechanism 21 of the cup unit 20, and the video data captured by the camera 25 is transmitted to the first control mechanism 21 of the cup unit 20. The video data captured by the camera 25 is supplied to the control unit 30 as one piece of golf play information acquired by the cup unit 20.

[0084] The rod 24 is extended and retracted in response to, for example, a remote control input from a user. One example of the remote control input is a voice command input using a predetermined voice (such as "extend the rod"). Another example of the remote control input is input from the terminal device 40. As another example, the rod 24 may be automatically extended and retracted in response to, for example, the insertion and removal of the pin 5. The rod 24 may be raised and lowered in response to the operation of a remote controller or a detection signal from a sensor (e.g., an infrared sensor) not shown. As an example of a remote controller, a remote controller for raising and lowering the rod 24 may be built into the grip of a golf club. The extension and retraction function of the rod 24 can be switched on and off by the user. The on / off of the extension and retraction function of the rod 24 and the timing of the extension and retraction may be automatically controlled by a program set by the user. Note that the telescopic rod mechanism with camera 20B is not limited to being provided on the bottom surface of the cup unit 20, but may also be embedded in the floor surface (the surface on which the golf ball rolls) of the training machine T. This configuration allows the telescopic rod mechanism with camera 20B to be applied to training machines that do not have a hole-shaped cup.

[0085] 10(a) and (b) show another example of a structure for extending and retracting a rod, illustrating a rod 24' having a foldable structure. FIG. 10(a) shows the extended state of the rod 24', and FIG. 5(b) shows the contracted state of the rod 24'. In this case, the rod 24' is made up of rod-shaped members interconnected via hinges, and when the individual rod-shaped members are folded, the rod 24' assumes the contracted state shown in FIG. 5(b). In the contracted state, a portion of the folded rod 24' is disposed on the bottom surface of the cup 2. When the rod 24' is folded at the hinges and extended linearly, the rod 24' assumes the extended state shown in FIG. 10(a). Note that the connection of the rod-shaped members constituting the rod 24' is not limited to hinges, and well-known foldable connection structures such as ball joints can also be used.

[0086] <Pin> Next, an example of the configuration of the pin 5 will be described with reference to Figures 11(a) to 11(c). As is well known, the pin 5 is a rod-shaped member that serves as a marker for the cup 2. Figures 11(a) to 11(c) show a practice pin 5 as an example of the pin 5. The practice pin 5 is a rod-shaped member with a handle 5Y provided at the tip.

[0087] In FIG. 11A, a pin unit container 50A containing a pin unit 50 is detachably mounted below the handle 5Y of the rod-shaped member forming the pin 5. The pin unit container 50A is, for example, a cylindrical member extending along the axial direction of the pin 5. The container 50A contains a control mechanism 51, a camera 52, a communication device 53, a laser 54, a photodetector 55, an acoustic device 50X, an illumination device 50Y, and other components (see FIG. 1). The container 50A is not limited to a cylindrical shape and may be any shape, such as a cubic or pyramidal shape. The pin unit container 50A is attached to the pin 5 so that its vertical mounting position can be adjusted. The pin unit container 50A includes a motor, a motor control device, a power supply, and other components as a mechanism for adjusting the mounting position of the container 50A. The pin unit container 50A may be built into the pin 5, as indicated by the dashed line in FIG. 11B. 11(c), the pin 5 may have a telescopic structure in which multiple rod members are connected in a nested manner, and may be configured to be extendable and retractable. The pin unit container 50A may be housed in the handle portion 5Y as shown in FIG. 11(c). The structure for extending and retracting the pin 5 is not limited to the nesting type, and well-known structures such as a folding type may also be used. In this case, the pin 5 can be contracted to make it more compact. The lighting provided by the lighting device 50Y attached to the pin 5 provides illumination around the pin 5, illumination, neon, lights, spotlights, rotating spotlights, mirror balls, LED lighting, etc.

[0088] The position of the pin unit container 50A on the pin 5, i.e., the position of the camera 52 and the laser 54, is not particularly limited and may be at the top, middle, or bottom of the pin 5. The pin unit container 50A may be fixed to the pin 5 or may be detachable. The pin 5 may be configured so that its upper and lower portions can be bent at an angle of approximately 90 degrees via a bending mechanism. In this case, when the pin 5 is removed from the cup 2 and laid down (tilted), the upper portion stands at an angle of approximately 90 degrees relative to the lower portion, allowing photography and laser light irradiation using the camera of the pin unit 50. The pin 5 is not limited to a practice pin as shown in FIG. 11 , but may also be a flagpole with a flag attached to its tip.

[0089] [3. Control] Next, a specific example of control for providing guidance in the system S will be described. In the control unit 30, the control device 31 constantly receives, as monitor information, image data acquired from the camera 25 of the cup unit 20, the first camera 52 of the pin unit 50, the cameras 62L, 62R, 62B, and 62H of the photographing unit 60, and the second camera 72 of the club unit 70, image data from the cameras 52, 62, 72, and 25, cup-in information from the first sensor 22 of the cup unit 20, impact information from the impact sensor 74A of the club unit 70, and angle data of the head 1A from the angle sensor 74B.

[0090] The control device 31 stores the received video data, cup-in information, impact information, and angle data (monitor information) in a storage device and accumulates them as big data, and based on this monitor information, generates guide information to provide guidance to the user's golf play.

[0091] <Providing Guidance> First, an example of control for providing guidance (instructions) for golf play will be described. The control device 31 analyzes acquired video data using well-known image analysis technology to calculate play situation estimation data. The play situation estimation data is data estimated from the video. The estimated data includes, for example, the user's current position, the user's posture before swinging, head-up analysis, head-up check, the user's line of sight, head position, stance, distance to the pin 5, and the like. The play situation estimation data allows the control unit 30 to grasp (estimate) the play situation based on the monitor information.

[0092] The control device 31 generates guide information based on the calculated play situation estimation data and model (model play) data. The guide information is advice (guide) for achieving a better shot based on the current play situation (such as the user's current position, the user's posture before the swing, head-up analysis, head-up check, the user's line of sight, head position, stance, and distance to the pin 5). Specifically, the guide information presents golf play tips such as a model swing trajectory, a model form, swing rhythm, ball launch direction, standing position, foot width, and accurate impact using images, photos, videos, audio, rhythmic sounds, or text. Additionally, the playing form of a master or expert golfer, for example, a professional golf player, can also be presented as a model play.

[0093] Model data that serves as a reference for guiding golf play, and various video, image, and audio data for generating guide information are stored in advance in the storage device 34. Examples of the model data include the user's posture before swinging, the user's line of sight, head position, stance, body movement, and golf club trajectory.

[0094] The control device 31 transmits the generated guide information to the terminal device 40. The terminal device 40 outputs guide content for golf play based on the guide information from the display 42 or the audio device. The destination of the guide information may be the terminal device 40, the display device 76 or the audio device 77 of the club unit 70, or other units 20, 50.

[0095] The guide content is at least one of a guide video and a guide audio. Examples of the guide video include the user's eye position during the swing, head position, posture, head-up analysis, head-up check, hitting form, golf club stroke trajectory, head angle, ball launch angle, head speed, hitting strength, swing tempo, glove path (trajectory), and putter face direction (angle). Examples of the guide audio include a metronome sound (including music, voice, and other rhythmic sounds) that guides the swing rhythm of the golf club, and advice (audio comments) for improving golf play. The device may also be connected to an interactive online golf lesson service via the Internet.

[0096] As a guide for playing golf, predicted results from the current playing situation may be presented, such as predicted ball trajectory, predicted swing trajectory, predicted form, etc.

[0097] When generating the guide information, the control device 31 can take into account monitor information accumulated as big data, practice field information such as the slope and turf grain of the green, and personal information such as the user's age, gender, physique, constitution, height, weight, and golfing skills. By taking into account various information, the accuracy of the golf play guidance provided by the guide information can be improved. Furthermore, by taking into account the user's golf play information history into account, the user's "habits" can be more easily reflected, making it possible to provide personalized golf play guidance.

[0098] <Guidance by Laser Light> In the present system S, a laser light (guide laser light) is emitted from the first illuminator 54 of the pin unit 50 toward the hitting area T2. Meanwhile, a first light receiver 78 is provided in the club unit 70 of the golf club 1 used by a user of the hitting area T2. Therefore, when the user stands in an appropriate position relative to the pin unit 50, the first light receiver 78 of the club unit 70 receives the laser light from the first illuminator 54. When the first light receiver 78 receives the guide laser light, a display device in the system S displays this fact. Examples of the display device include the display device 42 of the terminal device 40 and the display device 76 of the club unit 70. Furthermore, when the first light receiver 78 receives the guide laser light, a speaker in the system S may output a sound to notify the user of this fact. Examples of speakers in the system S include the audio device 45 of the terminal device 40, the audio device 20Y of the cup 2, the audio device 50X of the pin 5, and the audio device 77 of the club 1.

[0099] Furthermore, a laser beam (guide sub-laser beam) is emitted from the second illuminator 75 of the club unit 70. When the user is standing in an appropriate position relative to the pin 5, the laser beam from the second illuminator 75 is emitted toward the pin 5 (pin unit 50). Meanwhile, the pin unit 50 is provided with a second light receiver 55. Therefore, when the user is standing in an appropriate position relative to the pin unit 50, the second light receiver 55 of the pin unit 50 receives the laser beam from the second illuminator 75 of the club unit 70. When the second light receiver 55 receives the guide sub-laser beam, a display in the system S displays this fact. Examples of the display include the display 42 of the terminal device 40 and the display device 76 of the club unit 70. When the second light receiver 55 receives the guide sub-laser beam, a notification to that effect may be made by audio output from a speaker in the system S. The speakers in the system S include the sound device 45 of the terminal device 40, the sound device 20Y of the cup 2, the sound device 50X of the pin 5, the sound device 77 of the club 1, and the like.

[0100] As described above, when the first light receiver 78 receives the guide laser beam, the display in the system S displays that fact, and when the second light receiver 55 receives the guide sub-laser beam, the display in the system S displays that fact, so that the user can confirm from the display that he or she is standing in the appropriate position relative to the pin unit 50. The display content may be anything as long as it informs the user that he or she is standing in the appropriate position relative to the pin unit 50. The respective trajectories of the laser beam from the first light receiver 78 and the laser beam from the second light receiver 55 function as guide lines indicating the trajectory of the ball 3, so that the user can understand the launch direction of the ball 3 after standing in the appropriate position relative to the pin unit 50. Therefore, a visual guide regarding putting (hitting the ball 3) can be provided to the user.

[0101] Furthermore, using the first illuminator 54 of the pin unit 50 and the second illuminator 75 of the club unit 70, it is possible to present guide light in both directions, using laser light from the front and laser light from the rear. Bidirectional guide light can provide more reliable guidance. The illumination angle between the first illuminator 54 of the pin unit 50 and the second illuminator 75 of the club unit 70 can be automatically adjusted based on the results of analysis of the monitor information and video data. This allows for adjustment of the direction of the laser light from the second illuminator 75 of the club unit 70 and the front-to-rear position of the intersection spot 75X, enabling accurate guidance that reflects the current playing situation.

[0102] <Feedback of Current Analysis Results> Furthermore, the control device 31 can provide feedback on the play results after the hit is completed based on the results of analyzing the video data. In this case, the control device 31 identifies the swing made by the user in the video based on the results of analyzing the video data, analyzes the identified swing, and tracks the hit golf ball 3 in the video to analyze the movement of the golf ball 3. Here, analyzing and evaluating the swing includes analyzing the user's form and analyzing the movement of the golf club (head).

[0103] Examples of analysis items for the user's form include the user's eye position, head position, posture, head-up analysis, and head-up check. Examples of analysis items for the golf club (head) movement include the golf club stroke trajectory, head angle, head speed, impact strength, putter face angle, ball launch angle, club path (in-out / out-in movement of the club head at impact), swing tempo, swing flow, and club head flow.

[0104] Examples of analysis items for the movement of the golf ball 3 include the speed of the golf ball 3, the launch angle (launch direction) of the golf ball 3, and the flight distance of the golf ball 3. The control device 31 calculates analysis result data for each of the above items by analyzing the video data, and generates the calculated various analysis result data as practice support information. The analysis result data generated as support information is used as information for displaying the analysis results and evaluation of the golf play for each of the above items.

[0105] The control device 31 transmits the analysis result data generated as support information to the terminal device 40. The fourth control mechanism 41 of the terminal device 40 displays the analysis results and evaluation of the golf play for each of the above items on the display 42 as practice support content based on the received analysis result data (support information). In other words, feedback on the golf play results is provided. Such feedback contributes to improving the user's golfing technique. Furthermore, visualizing one's own play as numerical values ​​and video also contributes to improving the enjoyment of golf.

[0106] Examples of golf play analysis results displayed as support content on the display 42 are listed below. Examples of support content include the speed of the golf ball 3, the launch angle (launch direction) of the golf ball 3, the flight distance of the golf ball 3, the number of rotations of the ball 3, the rotation direction of the ball 3, the rotation speed, the ball quality, the quality of rotation, a video recording of the user's form during the swing, a series of high-speed photographs of the user's form during the swing, the user's eye position during the swing, the position and posture of the head, a head-up analysis, a head-up check, the golf club stroke trajectory, the measured head angle, the measured head speed, the measured strength of the impact, the swing tempo, the swing flow, and the flow of the club head. The golf club stroke trajectory includes the so-called glove path. The head angle includes the orientation (angle) of the putter face.

[0107] Feedback on the golf play result is not limited to the visual feedback described above, but may also be provided by audio information (i.e., auditory feedback). Specifically, auditory feedback refers to the transmission of the analysis results of the golf play by audio. Specifically, audio such as "Nice shot," "Out of alignment," "Hooked," "Open," "Out of alignment n degrees (n is any number)," "Hooked n degrees (n is any number)," and "Open alignment n degrees (n is any number)" may be output in response to the user's swing. These audio feedbacks can be provided in combination with the visual feedback described above.

[0108] In this case, the storage device of the control unit 30 is provided with a database that stores various voice data (audio data) used for auditory feedback. Based on the calculated various analysis result data, the control device 31 extracts voice data to be provided to the user from the database and generates practice support information including this voice data. The terminal device 40 outputs voice based on the transmitted voice data. For example, headphones or earphones can be used to output the voice. Note that the voice output is not limited to the terminal device 40, and may be performed by an audio device of any device within the system S.

[0109] <Banner Advertisement> The control device 31 may generate banner advertisement display information in conjunction with providing the above-mentioned guide information or providing feedback on the golf play results, and transmit the banner advertisement display information to the terminal device 40 of the user.

[0110] The banner advertisement display information is information for displaying a banner advertisement video (a small advertisement displayed in a part of the screen). In this case, the terminal device 40 displays the banner advertisement in association with the provision of guide information or feedback on the golf play results. The banner advertisement may be displayed on any display device in the system S, such as the display device of the cart 6, in addition to the terminal device 40. The control device 31 may generate advertising audio output information instead of or in addition to the banner advertisement display information and send it to the terminal device 40 of the user. In this case, the terminal device 40 outputs advertising audio in association with feedback on the golf play results. The content of the output video or audio is not limited to advertising, and may be any video or audio (e.g., ASMR).

[0111] In addition, the content provided from the control unit 30 to the terminal device 40 and other devices 20, 50, 70 in this system S is not limited to the above. For example, audio and video guidance for "prize presentation," advertising video and audio, points awarded at stores and websites, miles, mileage, stay mileage, discount tickets, service coupons, music, audio support, lighting effects, etc. may be provided.

[0112] In this case, the storage device 34 of the control unit 30 has a database that stores a large amount of information (including advertising video signals) related to advertising videos, advertising audio, point awards at stores and websites, music, support audio, lighting effects, etc. For example, in response to a cup-in, the control unit 30 extracts information related to advertising videos, advertising audio, point awards at stores and websites, miles, mileage, stay mileage, discount tickets, service coupons, music, support audio, lighting effects, etc. from the database and transmits it to the terminal device 40. Support audio is audio that enhances the enjoyment of golf, specifically, cheers, cheers, applause, etc. from the gallery. Lighting effects enhance the user's enjoyment of golf by controlling the on / off, color, brightness, etc. of light source devices within the system S. Lighting provides illumination, neon, lights, spotlights, rotating spotlights, mirror balls, LED lighting, etc. Lighting effects may be accompanied by music. The user can select a desired music genre or song, such as disco, gravure music, classical music, pop music, enka, etc. In the lighting effect, it is preferable to change the control of the light source device according to the selected music genre.

[0113] The timing for providing banner advertising videos, advertising audio, music, etc. is not limited to when the ball goes into the hole. Advertising videos, advertising audio, music, radio broadcasts, movies, etc. can be provided at any time during practice using the training device T. Providing "music" as described above includes playing music based on a playlist of desired music genres or songs created by the user, as well as playing music selected by a DJ (disc jockey). The user may be able to request a desired song from the DJ's selection. The music provided may also be so-called "karaoke." In this case, the user can sing along with the karaoke performance. The user can freely turn on or off the playback of audio and video from advertising videos, advertising audio, music, radio broadcasts, movies, television, video streaming services, etc. In other words, the user can individually select whether or not the various content described above is provided, for example, via the terminal device 40.

[0114] In addition, a competitive game function, a putting game, an approach game, and the like linked to the acquired monitor information may be provided by the terminal device 40. If the user's terminal device 40 is a wearable device (head-mounted wearable device) that is worn on the head, such as smart glasses or an eyeglass-type wearable device, the above-mentioned various guide displays and images of the support content are superimposed on the real world and displayed on the display 42 of the terminal device 40. In this way, by providing guide displays and support content as AR (Augmented Reality), VR (Virtual Reality), or MR (Mixed Reality), the user's enjoyment of playing golf can be further enhanced.

[0115] If the user's terminal device 40 is a head-mounted wearable device such as smart glasses or an eyeglass-type wearable device, the display 42 of the terminal device 40 can be used to play audio and video content such as advertising videos, audio advertisements, music, radio broadcasts, and movies, as well as browse websites and various file documents while playing golf or traveling between courses. In other words, while playing golf, the user can engage in auditory and visual experiences and tasks separate from golf. The user can select from the various guide displays and support content described above on the terminal device 40 as appropriate and receive the support content in the desired combination.

[0116] In addition, the analysis results of the video data and the generated support information may be accumulated as big data in the storage device of the control device 31 (control unit 30). By storing the analysis results of the video data and the generated support information as big data in the control unit 30, a data platform that aggregates golf play information can be provided. Big data can be shared among multiple golf training machines. In the golf training system S shown in FIG. 1 , a user display (monitor) 1M is disposed in the hitting area T2. This monitor 1M is an example of a display device for displaying various information and is installed near the user. The monitor 1M is equipped with a control mechanism 91, a display device 92, a communication device 93, an input device 94, an audio device 95, a camera 96, a sensor 97, a lighting device 98, and the like. Sensors may include, for example, a speed sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a magnetic sensor, a biometric authentication sensor, an air pressure sensor (pressure sensor), a temperature sensor, a microphone (sound pressure sensor), a direction sensor, a proximity sensor, a brightness sensor (ambient light sensor), a motion sensor, an anemometer, a wind vane, an infrared sensor, an infrared camera, a snow depth meter (such as a snow depth meter based on laser reflection or images captured by a camera), etc. That is, the monitor 1M functions as one of the devices in the practice system S and can be configured as a multi-functional AI device that can link with other devices in the system S, display various information to the user, output audio, perform predetermined functions in response to predetermined voice input such as "Alexa (registered trademark)," "OK Google (registered trademark)," or "Hey Siri (registered trademark)," and emit light. The monitor 1M may display the various guides described above, support content, video and still images of the user's form, weather, current news, the user's score, ranking, etc. The monitor 1M allows the user to easily check the visual information provided by the system S. Additionally, the monitor 1M functions as one element of the golf practice system S in conjunction with other devices within the system S. For example, a user may use the monitor 1M to connect to an interactive online golf lesson service via the Internet.An electronic scoreboard 8 (display) may also be installed at any location within the golf practice system S (for example, behind the cup area T1). The electronic scoreboard 8 is an example of a display for displaying various information within the golf practice system S, and is preferably a large display device, for example, from the perspective of ensuring visibility. However, the size of the electronic scoreboard 8 is not particularly limited. The electronic scoreboard 8 may be configured as an information terminal device equipped with additional mechanisms such as a control mechanism 81, a display 82, a communication device 83, an input device 84, an audio device 85, a camera 86, a sensor 87, and a lighting device 88, and can function as one of the devices constituting the system S. Sensors such as a speed sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a magnetic sensor, a biometric authentication sensor, an air pressure sensor (pressure sensor), a temperature sensor, a microphone (sound pressure sensor), a direction sensor, a proximity sensor, a brightness sensor (ambient light sensor), a human presence sensor, an anemometer, a wind vane, an infrared sensor, an infrared camera, a snow depth meter (such as a snow depth meter based on laser reflection or images captured by a camera), and the like may also be provided. That is, the scoreboard 8 functions as one of the devices in the practice system S and can be configured as a multi-functional AI device that can link with other devices in the practice system S, display various information to the user, output audio, perform predetermined functions in response to predetermined voice input such as "Alexa (registered trademark)," "OK Google (registered trademark)," or "Hey Siri (registered trademark)," and emit light. The display of various information on the scoreboard 8 is controlled, for example, by the control unit 30. The scoreboard 8 may be controlled not only by the control unit 30 but also by any of the cup unit 20, the control unit 30, the terminal device 40, the pin unit 50, the photographing unit 60, and the club unit 70 in the system S. The scoreboard 8 may display the various guide displays and support content described above. In addition to the guides and content described above, any information such as weather, current news, the user's score, and ranking may be displayed on the scoreboard 8. Furthermore, a projector may be provided instead of or in addition to the scoreboard 8. The projector can project images using projection mapping into the system S.All of the cameras installed within the golf practice system S may be 3D cameras. Furthermore, each device within the golf practice system S may be configured to share its respective power status (e.g., remaining battery level) and operating status (meters). Furthermore, since the photographing units 60 are positioned to surround the user standing in the hitting area T2, the photographing units 60 can capture a full-body (all-around) image of the user. This image information can be used to obtain measurement data when customizing clothing, accessories, and tools, such as golf wear, golf caps, golf shoes, and golf clubs. This image information can also be used to create icons, avatars, and characters (two-dimensional and three-dimensional characters) for users to use on social networking sites (SNS) on the Internet. The created avatars can be used in a three-dimensional virtual space constructed on a computer, such as the Metaverse.

[0117] 4. Effects and Advantages The golf training system S of this embodiment has the above-described configuration and therefore provides the following effects and advantages.

[0118] (0) According to the present system S, when the user is standing in the appropriate position relative to the pin 5, the guide laser light from the first illuminator 54 attached to the pin 5 is received by the first light receiver 78 attached to the golf club 1, and the display within the system S displays this fact. Therefore, the user can confirm that he or she is standing in the appropriate position relative to the pin unit 50 by the display on the display. Furthermore, the guide sub-laser light from the second illuminator 75 attached to the golf club 1 can be received by the second light receiver 55 attached to the pin 5, and the display within the system S can display this fact. Therefore, the user can confirm his or her position by using two-way laser light, that is, the guide laser light directed from the pin 5 to the user and the guide sub-laser light directed in the opposite direction from the user to the pin 5. The display may be any display within the system S, such as the display 42 of the terminal device 40 or the display device 76 attached to the golf club 1. In this way, by providing the user with a visual guide for golf play (putting) using the guide laser light from the first illuminator 54 and the guide sub-laser light from the second illuminator 75, the effectiveness of practice can be improved in the golf practice system.

[0119] (1) According to the present system S, at least one of the following monitor information is acquired: cup-in information from the first sensor 22 of the cup unit 20; video data captured by the first camera 52 of the pin unit 50 from the pin 5 toward the hitting area T2 (rearward); video data captured by the second camera 72 of the club unit 70 from the head 1A toward the front; and impact data and head 1A angle data detected by the sensor 74 of the club unit 70. The control unit 30 grasps the current playing situation based on the monitor information and generates guide information to provide guidance to the user's golf play according to the playing situation. The terminal device 40 provides the user with guidance based on the guide information in advance (in advance) before the user hits the ball. Guidance is provided based on monitor information obtained from multiple monitor information sources (cup unit 20, pin unit 50, club unit 70) located at the front (cup 2 side) and rear (hitting area T2 side) of the training machine T. The types of monitor information include video data, impact information, and cup-in information. Therefore, highly accurate guidance that takes into account multiple factors is provided. Therefore, the effect of practice can be improved. Also, by using the first illuminator 54 of the pin unit 50 and the second illuminator 75 of the club unit 70, it is possible to present guide light in both directions, using laser light from the front and laser light from the rear. Therefore, more accurate guidance is possible than with a structure in which guide light is irradiated in one direction from the golf club.

[0120] (2) The camera unit 60 is further included as a monitor information source, and video data captured by cameras 62L, 62R, and 62B on the left, right, and rear sides of the user is provided as monitor information. In conjunction with the first camera 52 of the pin unit 50, video data captured from all four sides (front, back, left, and right) of the user can be obtained, providing guidance that takes into account a greater number of factors. This further enhances the effectiveness of practice. (3) The camera unit 60 further includes a head camera 62H, which further provides video data of the user's line of sight. This allows for more accurate understanding of information such as the user's line of sight, head position, and posture during golf play. This allows for head-up checks and highly accurate confirmation of the golf club stroke trajectory. As a result, the accuracy of the guidance is improved.

[0121] (4) The second illuminators 75 of the club unit 70 are arranged along the width direction of the head 1A, and the laser light emitted from the three illuminators intersects at one point (intersection spot), so that the direction of the guide light indicates the direction in which the golf ball will be launched and the distance from the head 1A to the forward hitting target position.

[0122] (5) The club unit 70 includes a pair of second cameras 72 provided at both ends of the head 1A in the width direction, so that it can capture images of the hit golf ball 3. (6) The club unit 70 includes an angle sensor 74B, so that it can acquire angle data of the head 1A. (7) The club unit 70 includes an impact sensor 74A, so that it can acquire the presence or absence of an impact and the impact force as impact information. By virtue of the above (5) to (7), highly accurate impact information that reflects the user's impact can be acquired as monitor information, so that more accurate guidance can be provided.

[0123] (8) The control device 31 of the control unit 30 analyzes the video data, calculates play situation estimation data, and generates the guide information based on the calculated play situation estimation data. Because the analysis results of the video data are used, a guide that takes into account a large number of factors is provided. This further enhances the effectiveness of practice. (9) Because the guide information takes into account the history information accumulated in the storage device 34, it is possible to provide the user with personalized guide video and guide audio (which reflect the user's habits, so to speak).

[0124] (10) The control device 31 of the control unit 30 can display banner advertisements in conjunction with the guide. This makes it possible to provide advertisements to users who are enjoying golf. (11) Because the cup unit container 20A containing the cup unit 20 is built into the cup main body 2A, it is easy to add the functionality of the unit 20 to an existing cup 2. (12) The telescopic rod mechanism with camera 20B allows the surroundings of the cup 2 to be photographed even when the pin 5 is removed and the first camera 52 of the pin 5 cannot be used. (13) When the pin 5 is removed, the telescopic rod mechanism with camera 20B automatically extends, allowing the surroundings of the cup 2 to be photographed. Therefore, video data of the surroundings of the cup 2 can be reliably obtained even when the pin 5 is removed.

[0125] (14) The pin unit container 50A containing the pin unit 50 is attached to the pin 5 so that its mounting position can be adjusted freely, allowing the position of the first camera 52 (pin unit 50) to be adjusted as desired. This ensures the accuracy of the monitor information. (15) When a head-mounted wearable terminal is used as the terminal device 40, it is possible to balance playing golf with viewing the display. Furthermore, when displaying guide information, an image is provided superimposed on the real world. By providing a guide as augmented reality in this way, the user's enjoyment of playing golf can be further enhanced.

[0126] [5. Other] The above-described embodiment is merely an example, and is not intended to exclude various modifications and applications of techniques not explicitly stated in the present embodiment. Each configuration of the present embodiment can be modified and implemented in various ways without departing from the spirit thereof. Furthermore, they can be selected and / or combined as needed.

[0127] In the above embodiment, a configuration in which a cup 2 is provided in a hole drilled in the golf ball rolling surface has been described as an example. However, in the golf training system S, the cup need not be a hole; it may be provided on the golf ball rolling surface as a predetermined area (flat surface) below the pin. In this case, as shown in FIG. 12 , a pin 5′ having three legs 5X is used. The pin 5 is placed on the ground by the legs 5X. The area below the legs 5X is the destination (i.e., the cup) for hitting the ball. In other words, the user putts by aiming at the area below the feet 5X. The pin 5′ shown in FIG. 12 can stand on its own with the legs 5X, which has the advantage that the installation location can be freely set. Furthermore, while the system has been described as being applied to a golf training device T, this system may also be applied to outdoor golf courses. While an example in which three second illuminators 75 are provided on the mount unit 7 has been described, the number of second illuminators 75 may be one or more. The number and arrangement of cameras provided in the imaging unit 60 are not limited to the above example. The more cameras there are, the more data available for analyzing the video data, contributing to improved analysis accuracy. On the other hand, the more cameras there are, the greater the processing load and the higher the costs. Furthermore, it is also possible to perform facial recognition of a user or detect the user's vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, body temperature, hydration, etc.) based on the video data captured by the cameras 20X, 35, 46, 52, 62, and 72 installed in the various devices 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, and 70 in the system S, such as the imaging unit 60. The power sources (batteries) for the various devices described above may be any well-known power source, such as rechargeable batteries or solar cells. When rechargeable batteries are used as the power source, they may be capable of air charging (wireless power transmission) or USB charging.

[0128] The smartphone or wearable device used as the terminal device 40 may have, for example, the following functions. The following functions are also useful for increasing the enjoyment of golf and for improving the golf shot support effect.・A function to provide play support information via a voice assistant ・A function to provide play support information in response to specified voice input such as "Alexa (registered trademark)," "OK Google (registered trademark)," or "Hey Siri (registered trademark)" ・A function to provide play support information via AI (artificial intelligence application) ・A function to provide banner ads and audio ads ・A function to provide games during waiting times during a golf round ・A function to provide points according to golf play ・A function to survey the golf course and present the results of the measurement to the user ・A function to guide the user in the direction to hit the golf ball ・A function to measure the movements of the user while playing golf ・A function to detect the user's vital information (blood pressure, pulse rate, body temperature, hydration, etc.) while playing golf ・A function to estimate the trajectory of the golf ball's movement ・A function to track the movement of the golf ball ・A function to film the user's swing and form ・A function to record golf play as a video ・A function to upload videos of golf play ・A function to remotely control golf carts and drones ・A function to browse social media and websites while playing golf ・A function to view videos while playing golf - Ability to view document and video files while playing golf - Ability to input documents and make calls while playing golf

[0129] While the above-described FIG. 7 illustrates an example in which the first sensor 22 is housed in a cup unit housing 20A located below the tray portion 2B on the bottom surface of the cup 2, the location of the first sensor 22 is not limited to the above-described example. FIGS. 13 to 18 illustrate variations in the location of the first sensor 22 in the cup 2, illustrating examples in which the first sensor 22 is disposed in a location other than the cup unit housing 20A. In these examples, the cup unit housing 20A houses the components of the cup unit 20 except for the first sensor 22. Elements already described are assigned the same reference numerals and will not be described again. FIG. 13 illustrates an example in which a protruding (bump-shaped) sensor casing 22A protrudes radially inward from the inner circumferential surface of the cup main body 2A above the bottom surface of the cup 2. The first sensor 22 is housed in the protruding sensor casing 22A. In addition to the first sensor 22, a camera that photographs (detects) the ball 10 that has fallen into the cup 2 may be provided inside the ring-shaped sensor casing 22B.

[0130] FIG. 14 illustrates a ring-shaped sensor casing 22B disposed along the inner circumferential surface of the cup body 2A above the bottom surface of the cup 2. A first sensor 22 is housed within this ring-shaped sensor casing 22B. In addition to the first sensor 22, a camera for photographing (detecting) the ball 10 that has fallen into the cup 2 may also be provided within the ring-shaped sensor casing 22B. FIG. 15 illustrates an example configuration in which a sensor casing 22C is embedded in the center of the tray 2B. The sensor casing 22C is formed in a shape that surrounds the hole 2D (i.e., the shaft member of the lifting mechanism 2C that forms the pin case) in the center of the tray 2B. The first sensor 22 is housed within this sensor casing 22C. In addition to the first sensor 22, a camera for photographing (detecting) the ball 10 that has fallen into the cup 2 may also be provided within the sensor casing 22C.

[0131] 16 illustrates an example configuration in which a ring-shaped sensor casing 22D is formed on the outer periphery (edge) of the tray 2B. The first sensor 22 is housed within this ring-shaped sensor casing 22D. The ring-shaped sensor casing 22D may be formed integrally with the tray 2B, or may be a separate body detachably attached to the tray 2B. In addition to the first sensor 22, a camera may be provided within the ring-shaped sensor casing 22D to photograph (detect) the ball 10 that has fallen into the cup 2 and to photograph the area around the cup 2.

[0132] FIG. 17 illustrates a configuration example in which a sensor casing 22C' (see FIG. 15) is embedded in the center of the tray portion 2B, and a ring-shaped sensor casing 22D' (see FIG. 16) is formed around the outer periphery of the tray portion 2B. In this case, at least one of a camera and a first sensor 22 may be provided in one of the sensor casing 22C' and the ring-shaped sensor casing 22D', and at least the other of the camera and the first sensor 22 may be housed in the other. Specifically, a configuration example is given in which a camera is housed in the sensor casing 22C', and the first sensor 22 is housed in the ring-shaped sensor casing 22D'. As another example, the first sensor 22 may be housed in the sensor casing 22C', and the camera may be housed in the ring-shaped sensor casing 22D'. In addition, a camera (or first sensor 22) may be provided in both sensor casing 22C' and ring-shaped sensor casing 22D', or both a camera and first sensor 22 may be provided in both sensor casing 22C' and ring-shaped sensor casing 22D'.

[0133] 18(a) and 18(b) show examples of the configuration of a sensor casing 22E that protrudes upward from the center of the receiving tray 2B. The sensor casing 22E forms a raised portion relative to the upper surface of the receiving tray 2B. At least one of the first sensor 22 and a camera is housed within this sensor casing 22E. The sensor casing 22E may be formed integrally with the receiving tray 2B, or may be a separate body that is detachably attached to the receiving tray 2B. FIG. 18(a) shows an example of a configuration in which, in addition to the sensor casing 22E, a ring-shaped sensor casing 22D'' is erected along the outer periphery of the upper surface of the receiving tray 2B. In this case, at least one of the camera and the first sensor 22 may be provided in one of the sensor casing 22E and the ring-shaped sensor casing 22D'', and at least the other of the camera and the first sensor 22 may be housed in the other. FIG. 18B shows a configuration example in which the sensor casing 22E is provided and the ring-shaped sensor casing 22D'' is not provided.

[0134] FIG. 19 shows the state in FIG. 18( a ) where the tray 2B has been raised by the lifting mechanism 2C. In this configuration, if a camera is housed in the sensor casing 22E and the first sensor 22 is housed in the ring-shaped sensor casing 22D″, the camera in the sensor casing 22E can be raised to the outside of the cup body 2A by raising the tray 2B, as shown in FIG. 19 . This allows the camera in the sensor casing 22E to capture, for example, 360-degree images of the area around the cup 2. FIG. 20 shows the state in FIG. 18( b ) where the tray 2B has been raised by the lifting mechanism 2C. In this case, for example, by housing a camera and the first sensor 22 in the sensor casing 22E′, the falling of the ball 10 into the cup 2 can be detected using the camera and the first sensor 22. Furthermore, when the tray 2B is raised as shown in FIG. 20 , the camera in the sensor casing 22E can capture, for example, 360-degree images of the area around the cup 2.

[0135] FIG. 21 shows a state in which the sensor casing 22E has been further elevated above the tray 2B by the lifting mechanism 2C from the state shown in FIG. 19 . FIG. 22 shows a state in which the sensor casing 22E' has been further elevated above the tray 2B by the lifting mechanism 2C from the state shown in FIG. 20 . As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22 , the sensor casing 22E and the sensor casing 22E' may be configured to be liftable relative to the tray 2B. If a camera is housed within the sensor casing 22E, the camera within the sensor casing 22E can be used to capture, for example, 360-degree images around the cup 2. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 23 , the sensor casing 22E may be elevated away from the tray 2B without raising the tray 2B as shown in FIG. 18( a ). In this case, if a camera is housed within the sensor casing 22E, the camera within the sensor casing 22E can be used to capture, for example, 360-degree images around the cup 2. 19 to 23, the receiving tray 2B and the sensor casing 22E can be raised and lowered by the lifting mechanism 2C with the pin 5 (shown by the dashed lines in the figures) inserted in the hole D. Here, the pin 5 inserted into the hole 2D may be raised and lowered together with the receiving tray 2B and the sensor casing 22E by the lifting mechanism 2C, or only the receiving tray 2B and the sensor casing 22E may be raised and lowered by the lifting mechanism 2C, without raising and lowering the pin 5 inserted into the hole 2D.

[0136] FIG. 24 shows a configuration example in which a storage section 22F housing a first sensor 22 or a camera is disposed on a shaft member of the lifting mechanism 2C (i.e., a member that is extendable in the vertical direction and forms a pin case through which a pin 5 can be inserted). Here, the camera is used to photograph (detect) a ball 10 that has fallen into the cup 2 and to photograph the surroundings of the cup 2. In FIG. 24, the storage section 22F is disposed at the tip of the shaft member of the lifting mechanism 2C. The tip of the shaft member of the lifting mechanism 2C rises and falls independently of the tray 2B by the lifting and lowering drive of the lifting mechanism 2C. FIG. 24 shows a state in which the tray 2B rises from the bottom surface of the cup 2, and the portion (tip) of the shaft member of the lifting mechanism 2C that includes the storage section 22F protrudes above the tray 2B. With the portion (tip) including the storage portion 22F protruding above the tray portion 2B, a camera inside the storage portion 22F can be used to capture, for example, 360-degree images of the area around the cup 2. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 25 , the tray portion 2B may not be moved from the bottom of the cup 2, and only the portion (tip) of the shaft member of the lifting mechanism 2C including the storage portion 22F may be extended upward. With the portion (tip) including the storage portion 22F extended upward, a camera inside the storage portion 22F can be used to capture, for example, 360-degree images of the area around the cup 2. As shown in FIG. 26 , the storage portion 22F may be disposed below the tray portion 2B on the shaft member of the lifting mechanism 2C. While FIGS. 19 to 26 describe the vertical lifting drive by the lifting mechanism 2C, the operational mode of the lifting drive is not particularly limited, and various modes are conceivable. For example, the lowering operation may be started immediately after the lifting operation by the lifting mechanism 2C, or the lifted state may be maintained after the lifting operation by the lifting mechanism 2C. Also, the lifting operation by the lifting mechanism 2C may be started in response to the extraction of the pin 5.

[0137] 9(a), (b) and 10(a), (b) described above show configuration examples in which the rods 24, 24' of the camera-equipped extensible rod mechanism 20B are arranged at the radial center of the cup 2, but the arrangement of the rods of the camera-equipped extensible rod mechanism 20B is not limited to this. For example, as shown in FIG. 27, the rods 24'' of the camera-equipped extensible rod mechanism 20B may be arranged on the outer periphery of the cup 2.

[0138] <System Modification> As an embodiment of the golf practice system according to the present invention, the system S shown in FIG. 1 has been illustrated. However, the embodiment of the golf practice system according to the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a golf practice system S' shown in FIG. 28 is also possible. In the golf practice system S' shown in FIG. 28, a cup 200 recessed in the golf ball rolling surface is provided in a cup area T1'. A rod-shaped pin 500 serving as a marker for the cup 200 is provided in the cup area T1' and is insertable and removable from the cup 200. A predetermined area spaced apart from the cup 200 forms a hitting area T2'. The hitting area T2' is an area where a user (golfer) hits a golf ball 300 toward the cup 200. A golf club 100 is disposed within the hitting area T2' for hitting the golf ball 300 from any position within the hitting area T2. The golf ball rolling surface refers to the floor surface on which the golf ball 300 rolls.

[0139] In the golf practice system S′ shown in FIG. 28 , a first illuminator (referred to as “laser” in FIG. 28 ) 510 is attached to the pin 500 and irradiates a guide laser beam L1 (shown by a dashed line in the figure) that forms a straight line from the pin 500 toward a hitting area T2′. A first light receiver (referred to as “light receiver” in FIG. 28 ) 120 that can receive the guide laser beam L1 from the first illuminator 510 is attached to the golf club 100. The positions of the first illuminator 510 on the pin 500 and the first light receiver 120 on the golf club 100 are not limited as long as they can irradiate the guide laser beam L1 toward the hitting area T2′ and receive the guide laser beam L1. For example, the first illuminator 510 can be disposed below the pin 500, and the first light receiver 120 can be disposed on the head of the golf club 100. In this case, the guide laser beam L1 is irradiated along the trajectory of the golf ball 300 on the rolling surface of the golf ball. This makes it easier for the user to grasp the direction in which the golf ball is being hit.

[0140] 28 , a second illuminator ("laser" in FIG. 28 ) 110 that irradiates a guide sub-laser beam L2 (shown by a dashed line in the figure) from the golf club 100 toward the pin 500 is attached to the golf club 100, and a second light receiver ("light receiver" in FIG. 28 ) 520 that can receive the guide sub-laser beam L2 from the second illuminator 110 is attached to the pin 500. The position of the second illuminator 110 on the golf club 100 and the position of the second light receiver 520 on the pin 500 are not limited as long as they can irradiate the guide sub-laser beam L2 toward the pin 500 and can receive the guide sub-laser beam L2. As an example, the second illuminator 110 can be disposed on the head of the golf club 100, and the second light receiver 520 can be disposed below the pin 500. In this case, the guide sub-laser beam L2 is emitted along the trajectory of the golf ball 300 on the golf ball rolling surface, which makes it easier for the user to grasp the direction in which the golf ball is launched.

[0141] The golf practice system S' shown in Fig. 28 includes a display 130 attached to the golf club 100 as an indicator that displays when the first light receiver 120 receives the guide laser beam L1 and when the second light receiver 520 receives the guide sub-laser beam L2. An example of the display 130 is the one provided on the top surface of the head of the golf club 100 as described above with reference to Fig. 3. The display 130 is not limited to this, and may be any of the indicators given as examples in the description of the system S above, such as a terminal device, a headset, smart glasses, or an electronic scoreboard, which are not shown in Fig. 28.

[0142] According to the above-described system S′, when the user is standing in an appropriate position relative to the pin 500, the guide laser beam L1 from the first illuminator 510 attached to the pin 500 is received by the first light receiver 120 attached to the golf club 1, and the display 130 in the system S′ displays that fact. Furthermore, the guide sub-laser beam L2 from the second illuminator 110 attached to the golf club 100 can be received by the second light receiver 520 attached to the pin 500, and the display 130 in the system S′ can display that fact. Therefore, the user can confirm his or her own position using two-way laser light, namely the guide laser beam L1 directed from the pin 500 to the user and the guide sub-laser beam L2 directed in the opposite direction from the user to the pin 500. In this way, by providing the user with a visual guide for golf play (putting) using the guide laser beam L1 from the first illuminator 510 and the guide sub-laser beam L2 from the second illuminator 110, the golf practice system can enhance the effectiveness of practice. The cup 200 is not limited to being a recess (hole) formed in the golf ball rolling surface, but may be provided on the golf ball rolling surface as a predetermined area (flat surface) below the pin 500. As a modification of the golf practice system S' shown in Fig. 28, the first illuminator 510 may be attached to the pin 500, and the first illuminator 510 may simply irradiate the guide laser beam L1, i.e., the first light receiver 120, the second illuminator 110, and the second light receiver 520 may be omitted from the golf practice system S'. In this case, the user can grasp the direction in which the golf ball is launched by the guide laser beam L1.

[0143] If the training machine T is configured as a golf practice mat, it may be configured so that the undulations of the golf ball rolling surface in the cup area T1 can be adjusted. Specifically, a training machine T configured as a golf practice mat may be provided with an undulation adjustment means for the golf ball rolling surface. Well-known technology can be applied as the undulation adjustment means, and examples include an air jack that lifts part of the mat from below, a spacer, etc.

[0144] As shown in Figure 29, a ball cage 600 may be disposed behind the cup 2 as seen from the user within the hitting area T2 (see Figure 1). The ball cage 600 is an auxiliary device that provides the user with marks indicating positions spaced apart in the left-right direction (L and R directions in the figure) from the cup 2 as a guide for the ball's launch direction. The ball cage 600 in Figure 29 is formed from a member that has an overall rectangular parallelepiped shape. Of the six faces of the ball cage 600, the face that faces the user when positioned behind the cup 2 is referred to as the "front face" 610.

[0145] The front portion 610 is formed longitudinally along the left-right direction. A panel 611 is fixedly provided in the center of the front portion 610 in the left-right direction. The panel 611 is a marker that informs the user of the position of the cup 2. Multiple images 612 are arranged spaced apart in the left-right direction on the panel 611. The images 612 are, for example, circular, simulating a ball, and serve as ball position markers that indicate the left-right position of the ball 3 relative to the panel 611 (cup 2). The images 612 function as scales (scales in units of approximately one ball) that measure the left-right distance from the panel 611 (cup 2). For example, the image 612 to the right of the panel 611 is a marker indicating a position one ball to the right of the cup 2. In addition, laser light sources 613L and 613R are fixedly provided on both the left and right sides of the front portion 610, emitting laser light LX for hitting direction guidance toward the user. The ball cage 600 of FIG. 29 also has a panel 611, a pattern 612, and laser light sources 613L and 613R on the top surface 620.

[0146] The left-right dimension of the panel 611 is set to be equal to or smaller than the diameter of the cup 2. The diameter of the pattern 61 is set to be equal to or smaller than the diameter of the ball. From the viewpoint of improving the accuracy as a marker, the left-right dimension of the panel 611 is preferably slightly smaller than the diameter of the cup 2, and the diameter of the pattern 61 is preferably slightly smaller than the diameter of the ball. The laser light sources 613L, 613R are attached to the front portion 610 so that their angles can be adjusted. As an angle-adjustable attachment structure, well-known techniques such as a ball joint may be applied. The angles of the laser light sources 613L, 613R may be manually adjustable by the user or automatically adjusted by a drive mechanism including a power source or motor (not shown).

[0147] The ball cage 600 is positioned behind the cup 2 from the user's perspective, with the front part 610 facing the user. This allows the panel 611 and the image 612 on the front part 610 to serve as markers for the position of the cup 2 and the direction of the ball strike. In a ball cage 600 in which the panel 611 and the laser light sources 613L and 613R are fixedly mounted, the position of the marker (panel 611) relative to the cup 2 can be adjusted by changing the position of the ball cage 600 relative to the cup 2. For example, when practicing hitting one ball to the right (or left) or half the ball's diameter to the right (or left) in accordance with the undulations of the golf ball rolling surface, the left-right position of the ball cage 600 is adjusted so that the panel 611 is moved half the ball's diameter to the right (or left) relative to the cup 2. This provides a marker for the left-right position of the ball relative to the cup 2. This enhances the support effect of the golf practice system. To facilitate movement (position adjustment) of the ball cage 600, the bottom surface of the ball cage 600 may be equipped with a moving mechanism such as casters, wheels, rollers, etc. to facilitate movement.

[0148] The ball cage 600′ shown in FIG. 30 is a modified example of the ball cage 600 shown in FIG. 29 , in which a panel 611′ and laser light sources 613L′, 613R′ are provided on a front surface 610′ so as to be movable in the left-right direction. In FIG. 30 , the movement directions of the panel 611′ and the laser light sources 613L′, 613R′ are indicated by outline arrows. In the example shown in FIG. 30 , rails 614, 615 extending in the left-right direction are provided on the front surface 610′. The rail 614 supports the panel 611′ so as to be movable in the left-right direction, and the rail 615 supports each of the laser light sources 613L′, 613R′ so as to be movable in the left-right direction. The movement ranges of the panel 611′ and the laser light sources 613L′, 613R′ are set to the entire width of the ball cage 600′ in the left-right direction, for example. The range of movement of the panel 611' and the laser light sources 613L', 613R' is not limited to the entire width of the ball cage 600' in the left-right direction, but may be appropriately variably set within a portion of the entire width in the left-right direction. Since the rails 614 and 615 are arranged side by side without intersecting each other, the panel 611' and the laser light sources 613L', 613R' can pass each other when moving left and right. The ball cage 600' in FIG. 30 also has a panel 611', a design 612', and laser light sources 613L', 613R' on the top surface 620'. In this case, the position of the mark (panel 611) relative to the cup 2 is adjusted by moving the panel 611' (and the laser light sources 613L', 613R') left and right without moving the ball cage 600'. For example, the panel 611' and the laser light sources 613L', 613R' can be moved in accordance with the undulations (undulations) of the green. This can further enhance the support effect of the golf practice system. The movement of the panel 611' and the laser light sources 613L', 613R' in the left and right directions may be manually adjusted by the user, or may be automatically adjusted by a drive mechanism including a power supply and a motor (not shown).

[0149] 29 and 30 show ball cages 600 and 600' that are placed directly on the floor. However, the ball cages 600 and 600' may have legs (not shown) for supporting the ball cages 600 and 600' from below, and may be placed on the floor via the legs (not shown). Also, as shown in FIG. 31, the ball cages 600 and 600' may be attached to pins 5. In the case of the ball cages 600 and 600' attached to pins 5 as shown in FIG. 31, the ball cages 600 and 600' may be fixed to the pins 5, or may be attached so that their attachment positions can be moved up, down, left, and right. The attachment positions may be moved manually or electrically controlled by a drive mechanism (not shown). The electrically controlled operation may be remotely controlled using a remote controller (not shown), or may be operated by a switch (not shown) provided on the ball cages 600 and 600'.

[0150] The front portion 610 may have any shape other than a circle as the pattern 612. Furthermore, the front portion 610 may have a scale for measuring length instead of or in addition to the pattern 612 as a marker. The scale may be in any unit, such as centimeters, millimeters, feet, or inches. The ball cages 600 and 600' may have a structure in which panels 611 and 611', a pattern 612, and laser light sources 613L, 613R, 613L', and 613R' are provided on at least one of the front portion 610 and 610' and the top portion 620 and 620'. The shape, size, and horizontal dimensions of the ball cages 600 and 600' are not limited. For example, the ball cages 600 and 600' are not limited to a rectangular column shape as shown in FIGS. 29 and 30 , but may also be flat, disc-shaped, or have any other shape. The number of laser light sources is not limited to two, and may be one or more. Furthermore, the ball cages 600 and 600' may include a communication device, a camera, a display, an audio device (microphone, speaker), etc. (not shown), and may be one of the components of the golf practice systems S and S'. Furthermore, the ball cages 600 and 600' may be provided with a level.

[0151] 32 and 33 may be provided instead of or in addition to the ball gauges 600, 600' as markers for the left-right position of the ball relative to the cup 2 (the L and R directions in the drawings). The mini pins 700, 700' are positioned behind the cup 2 as seen from the user within the hitting area T2 (see FIG. 1) and are displaced left-right (the L and R directions in the drawings) relative to the cup 2, and serve as markers for the position of the cup 2 and the direction of hitting the ball.

[0152] The mini pins 700, 700' are short rod-shaped members. The mini pin 700 in FIG. 32 has a spike portion 701 for contact with the ground at its bottom end and a laser light source 702 at its top. The mini pin 700 is used by piercing the spike portion 701 into the floor. The mini pin 700' in FIG. 33 has a plate portion 703 for contact with the ground at its bottom end and a laser light source 704 at its top. The mini pin 700' is used by standing upright on the floor using the plate portion 703. The laser light sources 702, 704 emit laser light LY for guiding the hitting direction. The position of the laser light sources 702, 704 on the mini pins 700, 700' is not limited to the top, but may also be at the bottom or middle, and is optional. The mini pins 700, 700' may also include a communication device, camera, display, audio device (microphone, speaker), etc. (not shown), and may be one of the components of the golf practice systems S, S'.

[0153] FIG. 34 is a schematic diagram of an example of smart glasses (eyeglass-type wearable device) 40X applied as the terminal device 40 and a user wearing the smart glasses 40X. The camera 46 mounted on the smart glasses 40X is used as the head camera 62H (see FIG. 1) of the photographing unit 60 (see FIG. 1) as described above. FIG. 35 is a schematic diagram of an example of VR goggles (head-mounted VR terminal device) 40Y applied as the terminal device 40 and a user wearing the VR goggles 40Y. The camera 46 mounted on the VR goggles 40Y is used as the head camera 62H (see FIG. 1) of the photographing unit 60 (see FIG. 1) as described above. Note that well-known technologies may be adopted as the smart glasses and VR goggles as appropriate, and their shapes and structures are not limited to the illustrated examples. The smart glasses 40X and VR goggles 40Y can be used as displays for displaying images using various well-known information display technologies, such as AR (Augmented Reality), VR (Virtual Reality), or MR (Mixed Reality). Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 36( a), a solar panel 2X may be attached to the upper surface of the saucer portion 2B of the cup 2. As shown in FIG. 36( a), the solar panel 2X may be attached to the entire upper surface of the saucer portion 2B, or may be provided on only a portion of the upper surface of the saucer portion 2B. In this case, a protective sheet (protective cover) may be provided on the surface of the solar panel 2X to protect the surface of the solar panel 2X. Furthermore, FIG. 36( b) is a cross-sectional view (cut surface along the axial direction of the cup main body 2A) of a portion of the cup 2, as viewed from the arrow V in FIG. 36( a). As shown in Fig. 36(b), a solar panel 2Y may be attached to the inner peripheral surface of the cup main body 2A. In Fig. 36(b), the solar panel 2Y is provided on a part of the cup main body 2A, but it may also be provided on the entire inner peripheral surface of the cup main body 2A.

[0154] In the golf practice systems S and S', the cup 2, the pin 5, and the club 1 are each described as being equipped with a camera, laser, sensor, sound device, etc. (cup unit 20, pin unit 50, club unit 70). However, at least one of the cup 2, the pin 5, and the club 1 may be configured with a camera, laser, sensor, sound device, etc. For example, the cup 2 may be configured as a normal cup without an attached mechanism such as a camera, and the pin 5 and the club 1 may be configured as an AI pin and an AI club equipped with a camera, etc. In the above-described embodiment, the golf practice systems S and S' are described. However, one of the features of the golf practice systems S and S' is that each device in the system, i.e., the cup 2, the pin 5, and the club 1, is equipped with a camera, laser, sensor, sound device, etc. (cup unit 20, pin unit 50, club unit 70), as described above. Therefore, it is possible to configure the invention as a pin equipped with a camera, laser, sensor, acoustic device, etc., a cup equipped with a camera, laser, sensor, acoustic device, etc., or a club equipped with a camera, laser, sensor, acoustic device, etc.

[0155] Solar panels may be attached to the pins 5. The solar panels are power generating panels for generating electricity for various devices in the practice system S, such as the terminal device 40. The placement of the solar panels relative to the pins 5 may be determined appropriately based on the perspectives of efficiently collecting sunlight and the functionality of the pins 5. FIG. 37( a) shows an example of a configuration in which a plate-shaped solar panel 5S is attached to the tip of the pin 5. Here, an example of a pin configuration is shown in which the pin 5 is a rod-shaped member with a flag 5A attached to the tip. FIG. 37( b) shows an example of a configuration in which the solar panel 5S is attached below the flag 5A at the tip of the pin 5. FIG. 37( c) shows an example of a configuration in which the solar panel 5S is attached to a pin 5' whose upper portion 5U can be bent relative to the lower portion 5D at a hinge portion 5C. As shown in FIG. 37( c), the solar panel 5S may be positioned below the hinge portion 5C on the pin 5'. In this case, a portion of the solar panel 5S can support the pin 5' in a reclined position. The solar panel 5S is detachably attached to the pins 5 and 5'. The power generated by the solar panel 5S can be used to charge the batteries of the pin unit 50 and other devices.

[0156] As shown in FIG. 38 , a pin 5′, whose upper portion 5U can be bent relative to a lower portion 5D at a hinge portion 5C, may have a support plate 5L provided below the hinge portion 5C. The support plate 5L has functions such as supporting the pin 5′ in a horizontal position and providing a grip support when lifting the pin 5′. The support plate 5L is detachably attached to the pin 5′. Alternatively, a grip member may be attached to the pin 5′ instead of the support plate 5L to facilitate lifting the pin 5′. The grip member may be shaped to cover the pin 5′ and made of a well-known material with excellent gripping properties, such as a resin material or EVA foam. The grip member may be attached below the hinge portion 5C, for example, but may also be attached to the upper, middle, or lower portion of the pin 5′.

[0157] The pin 5 may be formed into a rod shape by connecting multiple components, as shown in Figures 39(a) to 39(d). Figures 39(a) to 39(d) show an example of a configuration in which a single pin 5 is formed by detachably connecting three components: an upper portion 5P, a middle portion 5Q, and a lower portion 5R. The upper portion 5P, the middle portion 5Q, and the lower portion 5R may be connected by a screw-type, push-type, folding type, button-type, or any other connection method. In this case, a pin unit 50 including a first camera 52 or a sensor may be built into at least one of the upper portion 5P, the middle portion 5Q, and the lower portion 5R. Figure 39(a) shows an example of a configuration in which the pin unit 50 is built into the upper portion 5P. Figure 39(b) shows an example of a configuration in which the pin unit 50 is built into the middle portion 5Q. Figure 39(c) shows an example of a configuration in which the pin unit 50 is built into the lower portion 5R. Figure 39(d) shows an example of a configuration in which the pin unit 50 is built into both the upper portion 5P and the lower portion 5R. In the configuration example of FIG. 39(d), the components of the pin unit 50 may be housed separately in the upper portion 5P and the lower portion 5R. The mounting position of the pin unit 50 may be freely set by the user. Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 39(a) to 39(d), a solar panel 5Z (shown by a dashed line) may be wrapped around the pin 5. The solar panel 5Z is detachably attached to the pin 5. Well-known techniques, such as a screw system, a protrusion engagement system, or a snap-in system, can be used to detachably attach the solar panel 5Z to the pin 5. The vertical position of the solar panel 5Z is not limited. The power generated by the solar panel 5Z can be used to charge the pin unit 50 and batteries of other devices. The solar panel 5Z may be fixedly attached to the pin 5 (i.e., "formed as a single pull with the pin 5").

[0158] As shown in FIG. 1 , the golf practice system S may further include an auxiliary terminal device 90. The auxiliary terminal device 90 is an auxiliary information terminal device (i.e., a slave device of a device within the system S) provided to assist, link, complement, or replace various processes and functions performed by the devices 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, etc. that constitute the golf practice system S. The auxiliary terminal device 90 may be configured as an information terminal device equipped with additional mechanisms such as a control mechanism 91, a display 92, a communication device 93, an input device 94, an audio device 95, a camera 96, a sensor 97, and a lighting device 98, and can function as one of the devices that constitute the system S. That is, the auxiliary terminal device 90 can transmit information captured or detected by the camera 96 ​​or the sensor 97 to other devices within the system S, and can output sound or provide illumination based on information received from other devices within the system S. The camera 96 ​​may be a 360-degree camera or a camera that captures images within a range narrower than 360 degrees. The camera 25 may also be configured as a 3D camera. As described above, various information within the driving range (e.g., monitoring information on players and balls) can be acquired using the camera 96 ​​and the sensor 97. The various pieces of information acquired by the auxiliary terminal device 90 may be treated as secondary, complementary, auxiliary, or alternative information to the various pieces of information acquired by other devices within the system S, or as independent main information. The images acquired by the camera 96 ​​may be used to generate guide information or as live video data (live camera) for monitoring and managing the current situation within the driving range. Sensors may include, for example, a speed sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a magnetic sensor, a biometric authentication sensor, an air pressure sensor (pressure sensor), a temperature sensor, a microphone (sound pressure sensor), a direction sensor, a proximity sensor, a brightness sensor (ambient light sensor), a human presence sensor, an anemometer, a wind vane, an infrared sensor, an infrared camera, a snow depth meter (such as a snow depth meter based on laser reflection or images captured by a camera), and the like.In other words, the auxiliary terminal device 90 functions as one of the devices within the practice system S, and can be configured as a multi-functional AI device that can link with other devices within the system S, display various information to the user, output audio, perform specified functions in response to specified voice input such as ``Alexa (registered trademark),'' ``OK Google (registered trademark),'' or ``Hey Siri (registered trademark),'' and emit light.

[0159] The auxiliary terminal device 90 may be installed at any location within the driving range, either fixedly or with its mounting position reversible (movable). As an example, one or more auxiliary terminal devices 90 are installed outside the area T1 and near the cup 2. In this installation example, the auxiliary terminal device 90 performs photography, sensing, and the like outside the cup area T1, so that the information acquired by the auxiliary terminal device 90 can compensate for the "blind spots" outside the cup area T1 and the cup unit 20, pin unit 50, club unit 70, and photography unit 60. As an example of the external shape of the auxiliary terminal device 90, as shown in FIG. 40( a), there is one formed by a rod-shaped member 90A extending upward from the floor surface 93 (sub-pin, antenna type). In this case, the rod-shaped member 90A is equipped with attached mechanisms such as a control mechanism 91, a display 92, a communication device 93, an input device 94, an audio device 95, a camera 96, a sensor 97, and a lighting device 98.

[0160] Furthermore, when not in use, the rod-shaped member 90A serving as the auxiliary terminal device 90 may be stored in a storage section 91 (shown by a dashed line in the figure) embedded in the floor surface 93. FIG. 40(b) shows the rod-shaped member 90A stored in the storage section 91. The rod-shaped member 90A may be configured to be adjustable in its axial dimension. When in use, as shown in FIG. 40(a), the rod-shaped member 90A is extended. When not in use, as shown in FIG. 40(b), the rod-shaped member 90A is contracted and stored in the storage section 91 below the floor surface 93. A lid 92 may be provided to cover the upper end of the storage section 91. By closing the lid 92 when not in use, the rod-shaped member 90A can be hidden and foreign objects can be prevented from entering the storage section 91. The lid 92 opens automatically or manually when the auxiliary terminal device 90 is in use. The lid 92 may be covered with grass similar to the surface of the floor surface 93 in the driving range. In this case, the user can walk on the lid 92 (storage section 91) without feeling uncomfortable. In the unused state, the upper end of the rod-shaped member 90A may be positioned lower than the lid 92 or at the same height (ground level) as the lid 92. If the upper end of the rod-shaped member 90A is at the ground level in the unused state, for example, a structure can be adopted in which a hole through which the rod-shaped member 90A is inserted is provided in part of the lid 92, and the rod-shaped member 90A is allowed to protrude above the ground level through the hole in the lid 92 or is retracted into the storage section 91.

[0161] The mechanism for extending and retracting the rod-shaped member 90A is not particularly limited, and may be a known structure such as a telescopic structure or a folding structure. The rod-shaped member 90A may be automatically extended and retracted by a drive device (not shown), or may be manually extended and retracted. The drive device may be a known drive device such as an electric motor, a hydraulic drive device, a pneumatic drive device, or a water hydraulic drive device. Furthermore, the auxiliary terminal device 90 may be supplied with power via a wire or wirelessly from a power source (not shown). Furthermore, the auxiliary terminal device 90 may be equipped with the various accessory devices described above, such as a solar panel.

[0162] The auxiliary terminal device 90 may be switched between active and inactive states depending on weather information such as wind and weather. For example, in bad weather such as strong winds or rain, the auxiliary terminal device 90 may be housed in the housing section 91 with the lid 92 closed, and in weather other than bad weather, the lid 92 may be open and the auxiliary terminal device 90 may extend outward from the housing section 91. Furthermore, the auxiliary terminal device 90 may be used to check the state of the cup area T1 and the hitting area T2 when no player (user) is present in the hitting area T2. The rod-shaped member 90A serving as the auxiliary terminal device 90 may be fixed and not extendable. That is, the rod-shaped member 90A serving as the auxiliary terminal device 90 may always protrude from the floor surface 93. The auxiliary terminal device 90 need not be housed in the housing section 91 below the floor surface 93, but may also be installed on the floor surface 93. For example, as shown in FIG. 40( c), the rod-shaped member 90A′ may be installed on the floor surface 93 using legs 94 attached to the lower end of the rod-shaped member 90A′. In this case, the user can place the rod-shaped member 90A' (auxiliary terminal device 90) at any position.

[0163] The auxiliary terminal device 90 is not limited to operating in conjunction with other devices in the golf practice system S, but can also operate independently or selectively operate several devices.

[0164] The golf practice system S's functions of outputting sound and lighting using information acquired by cameras and sensors can also be applied to security systems. That is, cameras and sensors can monitor a monitored area, and when a suspicious individual, vermin, or vermin bird is detected, a report can be sent to a monitoring center, a warning sound can be emitted, or lighting can be activated. When the golf practice system S is used as a security system, examples of applications include golf courses, private homes, ranches, farmland, tourist spots, parks, and entertainment districts. The examples of applications are merely illustrative and are not limited to the above. When the golf practice system S is used to protect farmland from vermin and birds, laser irradiation, lighting, and sound can be used to scare off vermin and birds when they invade the monitored area, preventing their intrusion. The warning sound can be ultrasonic waves that have animal and bird-repelling effects, or the calls of predators (natural enemies). Examples of the cries of predators (natural enemies) include the cries of wolves, hawks, dogs, etc. In the golf practice system S, the function of outputting sound and lighting using information acquired by cameras and sensors can be applied not only to security systems but also to other systems that use sound output and lighting.

[0165] The following appendices are related to the above embodiments. [Appendix 1] A golf practice system comprising: a cup provided on the rolling surface of a golf ball (golf ball rolling surface) hit by a golf club; a hitting area spaced from the cup and having the golf ball rolling surface; a rod-shaped pin that is inserted and removed from the cup and serves as a marker for the cup; and a first illuminator that is attached to the pin and irradiates a guide laser beam that indicates a straight line from the pin toward the hitting area. [Appendix 2] The golf practice system described in Appendix 1, further comprising: a first light receiver that is attached to the golf club and can receive the guide laser beam from the first illuminator; and an indicator that displays a message when the first light receiver receives the guide laser beam. [Supplementary Note 3] The golf practice system described in Supplementary Note 2 is characterized in that it comprises a second illuminator attached to the golf club and irradiating a guide sub-laser light from the golf club toward the pin, and a second light receiver attached to the pin and capable of receiving the guide sub-laser light from the second illuminator, and the display displays that when the first light receiver receives the guide laser light and the second light receiver receives the guide sub-laser light.

[0166] [Supplementary Note 4] A golf training machine having a cup provided on the rolling surface of a golf ball (golf ball rolling surface) hit by a golf club, and a hitting area separated from the cup and having the golf ball rolling surface, wherein a user standing in the hitting area hits the golf ball with the golf club toward the cup; a cup unit attached to the cup and having a first detection means for detecting cup-in information of the golf ball and a first transmission device for transmitting the cup-in information to an external device; a pin unit attached to a rod-shaped pin that marks the cup and having a first image capturing means for capturing an image from the pin toward the hitting area, a second transmission device for transmitting image data captured by the first image capturing means to an external device, and a first irradiator for irradiating a guide laser beam from the pin toward the hitting area; a club unit attached to the head of the golf club used by the user in the hitting area, the club unit having: a second detection means for detecting impact information regarding the impact of the golf ball; a second photographing means for photographing an image forward from the head; a second irradiator for irradiating a guide sub-laser light forward from the head; and a third transmission device for transmitting the impact information and second image data photographed by the second photographing means to an external device; a first receiving device for receiving at least one of the cup-in information transmitted from the first transmitting device, the first image data transmitted from the second transmitting device, and the impact information and the second image data transmitted from the third transmitting device as monitor information; a control unit having: a control device for generating guide information for providing guidance for the user's golf play based on the monitor information; and a fourth transmitting device for transmitting the guide information to an external device; and a terminal device portable by the user, the control unit having: a second receiving device for receiving the guide information transmitted from the fourth transmitting device; and a presenter for presenting guidance for golf play based on the guide information.[Supplementary Note 5] The golf practice system of Supplementary Note 4, further comprising a first light receiver attached to the golf club and capable of receiving the guide laser light from the first illuminator, wherein the indicator of the terminal device displays an indication when the first light receiver receives the guide laser light. [Supplementary Note 6] The golf practice system of Supplementary Note 5, further comprising a second light receiver attached to the pin unit and capable of receiving the guide sub-laser light from the second illuminator, wherein the indicator of the terminal device displays an indication when the first light receiver receives the guide laser light and the second light receiver receives the guide sub-laser light. [Supplementary Note 7] The golf practice system of any one of Supplementary Notes 4 to 6, further comprising a photographing unit having third photographing means for photographing the user in the hitting area from at least one of both the left and right sides and the rear, and a fifth transmission device for transmitting third video data photographed by the third photographing means to an external device. [Appendix 8] The golf practice system of Appendix 7, wherein the photographing unit has a fourth photographing means disposed on the user's head and photographing a direction in which the user's line of sight is directed, and the third transmission device transmits the third video data and fourth video data photographed by the fourth photographing means to an external device. [Appendix 9] The golf practice system of any one of Appendixes 4 to 8, wherein the second illuminator in the club unit includes a plurality of laser light sources aligned along the width direction of the head. [Appendix 10] The golf practice system of any one of Appendixes 4 to 9, wherein the second photographing means in the club unit includes a pair of stereo cameras provided at both ends in the width direction of the head. [Appendix 11] The golf practice system of any one of Appendixes 4 to 10, wherein the second detection means in the club unit includes an angle sensor built into the head. [Appendix 12] The golf practice system according to any one of Appendices 4 to 11, wherein in the club unit, the second detection means includes an impact sensor built into the head.[Supplementary Note 13] The golf practice system of any one of Supplements 4 to 12, characterized in that the control device in the control unit analyzes at least one of the received first video data and second video data to calculate play situation estimation data, and generates the guide information based on the calculated play situation estimation data. [Supplementary Note 14] The golf practice system of any one of Supplements 4 to 13, characterized in that the control device in the control unit has a storage device that accumulates at least one of the cup-in information, the first video data, the hit information, and the second video data as history information, and generates the guide information taking into account the history information accumulated in the storage device. [Supplementary Note 15] The golf practice system of any one of Supplements 4 to 14, characterized in that the control device in the control unit generates banner advertisement display information for displaying a predetermined banner advertisement together with the guide information, and the presenter of the terminal device displays a banner advertisement based on the banner advertisement display information together with the guide information. [Appendix 16] The golf practice system of any one of Appendices 4 to 15, characterized in that the cup of the golf practice machine comprises a cylindrical cup main body having an opening at one end, and a cup unit container that is housed in the bottom of the cup main body on the opposite side to the opening and houses the cup unit. [Appendix 17] The golf practice system of any one of Appendices 4 to 16, characterized in that the cup of the golf practice machine comprises a cylindrical cup main body having an opening at one end, a cup unit container that is housed in the bottom of the cup main body on the opposite side to the opening and houses the cup unit, and an extendable rod mechanism that is housed in the cup main body below the cup unit container, and is made of a rod-shaped member that is extendable along the depth direction of the cup and that is set so that its tip protrudes outward from the opening of the cup in an extended state, and whose tip is equipped with a fifth imaging means for photographing the surroundings of the cup.[Appendix 18] The golf practice system of Appendix 17, wherein the telescopic rod mechanism is configured so that the rod-shaped member automatically assumes the extended state when the pin is removed from the cup, thereby enabling the fifth photographing means to photograph the periphery of the cup. [Appendix 19] The golf practice system of any one of Appendixes 4 to 18, wherein the pin unit is detachably attached to the tip side of the pin and the attachment position is freely adjustable along the longitudinal direction. [Appendix 20] The golf practice system of any one of Appendixes 4 to 19, wherein the terminal device is a head-mounted wearable terminal. [Appendix 21] The cup unit in the golf practice system of any one of Appendixes 4 to 20. [Appendix 22] The pin unit in the golf practice system of any one of Appendixes 4 to 20. [Appendix 23] The club unit in the golf practice system of any one of Appendixes 4 to 20. [Supplementary Note 24] A control unit in the golf training system described in any one of Supplementary Notes 4 to 20. [Supplementary Note 25] A terminal device in the golf training system described in any one of Supplementary Notes 4 to 20. [Supplementary Note 26] The golf training system described in any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 20, further comprising an auxiliary device arranged behind the cup as viewed from the hitting area to provide a user with guidance on the direction in which the golf ball will be launched, the auxiliary device having a plate portion marking the cup, a ball position mark arranged spaced apart in the left-right direction from the plate portion, and a laser light source that irradiates a laser light toward the user to guide the ball's launch direction.[Appendix 27] The golf practice system of Appendix 26, wherein the auxiliary device comprises a camera for photographing the surroundings, an audio device for inputting and outputting audio signals, a lighting device for illuminating the surroundings, a communication device for communicating with external devices, and a display device for displaying information. [Appendix 28] The golf practice system of any one of Appendices 1 to 20, wherein the auxiliary device is arranged to provide a user with guidance on the golf ball's launch direction, and comprises a plate portion forming a cup marker on the golf ball rolling surface, a ball position marker disposed spaced apart from the plate portion in the left and right directions, and a laser light source for emitting a laser light for guiding the ball's launch direction toward the user. [Appendix 29] The golf practice system of Appendix 28, wherein the auxiliary device comprises a camera for photographing the surroundings, an audio device for inputting and outputting audio signals, a lighting device for illuminating the surroundings, a communication device for communicating with external devices, and a display device for displaying information. [Appendix 30] The golf practice system of any one of Appendices 1 to 20, 26, and 27, further comprising an identification means for identifying the golf ball that has fallen into the cup. [Appendix 31] The golf practice system of Appendices 30, further comprising an illumination means for illuminating the inside of the cup. [Appendix 32] The golf practice system of any one of Appendices 1 to 20, 26, 27, 30, and 31, further comprising a human presence sensor that detects a person approaching the pin, and a lighting device that turns on when the human presence sensor detects the approach of a person. [Appendix 33] The golf practice system described in any one of Appendices 1 to 20, 26, 27, and 30 to 31, further comprising an auxiliary pin arranged to provide the user with guidance on the direction of launch of the golf ball, the auxiliary pin having a rod-shaped pin located behind the cup and a laser light source attached to the pin for emitting laser light toward the user for guiding the direction of launch of the ball.[Appendix 34] The golf practice system according to any one of Appendices 1 to 20, 26, 27, and 30 to 33, wherein the auxiliary pin comprises a camera that photographs the surroundings, an audio device that inputs and outputs audio signals, an illumination device that illuminates the surroundings, a communication device that communicates with external devices, and a display device that displays information. [Appendix 35] The auxiliary pin in the golf practice system according to any one of Appendices 1 to 20, 26, 27, and 30 to 34, wherein the auxiliary pin is arranged to provide a user with guidance in the direction of launch of the golf ball, and comprises: a rod-shaped pin located behind the cup; and a laser light source attached to the pin that irradiates the user with a laser light for guiding the ball's launch direction. [Appendix 36] The auxiliary pin in the golf practice system described in Appendix 35, characterized in that the auxiliary pin is equipped with a camera that photographs the surroundings, an audio device that outputs and inputs audio signals, a lighting device that illuminates the surroundings, a communication device that communicates with external devices, and a display device that displays information.

[0167] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Golf club 1A Head 1B Striking surface 2 Cup 2A Cup main body 2B Receptacle 2C Lifting mechanism 2D Hole 3 Golf ball 5 Pin 5Y Handle 7 Mounting portion 7C Base 7CB Rear portion 7CC Central portion 7CF Front portion 7CL Side portion 7CR Side portion 7E Light 20 Cup unit 20A Cup unit container 20B Telescopic rod mechanism with camera 21 First control mechanism 22 First sensor 23 First communication device 24 Rod 25 Camera 30 Control unit 31 Control device 32 Receiving device 33 Transmitting device 34 Storage device 40 Terminal device 41 Fourth control mechanism 42 Display 43 Fourth communication device 44 Input device 50 Pin unit 50A Pin unit container 51 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 52 Second control mechanism 52 First camera 53 Second communication device 54 First illuminator 55 Second light receiver 60 Photography unit 61 Communication device 62L, 62R Left and right cameras 62B Rear camera 62H Head camera 70 Club unit 71 Third control mechanism 71 Control device 72 Second camera 73 Third communication device 74 Second sensor 74A Impact sensor 74B Angle sensor 75 Second illuminator 76 Display device 77 Sound device 78 First light receiver G Green S, S' Golf practice system T Golf practice machine T1, T1' Cup area T2, T2' Hitting area 500 Pin 510 First illuminator 520 Second light receiver 100 Golf club 110 Second illuminator 120 First light receiver 130 Display 300 Ball 600, 600' Ball gauge (auxiliary equipment)

Claims

1. a cup provided on the rolling surface of a golf ball hit by a golf club (golf ball rolling surface); a hitting area spaced from the cup and having the golf ball rolling surface; a rod-shaped pin that is provided upright and can be inserted into and removed from the cup and serves as a marker for the cup; an assisting device attached to the pin to provide a user with guidance on the direction of launch of the golf ball; The auxiliary device is a plate portion that marks a cup on the golf ball rolling surface; a ball position mark that is disposed laterally spaced apart from the plate portion; and a laser light source that irradiates a laser light for guiding the ball's launch direction toward a user, The mounting position in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction relative to the pin can be adjusted. A golf practice system comprising:

2. a first light receiver attached to the golf club and capable of receiving the guide laser light from the laser light source; and a display that displays, when the first light receiver receives the guide laser light, that the guide laser light is received by the first light receiver.

2. The golf practice system of claim 1.

3. a cup provided on the rolling surface of a golf ball hit by a golf club (golf ball rolling surface); a hitting area spaced from the cup and having the golf ball rolling surface; a rod-shaped pin that is provided upright and can be inserted into and removed from the cup and serves as a marker for the cup; a first irradiator attached to the pin for irradiating a guide laser beam in a straight line from the pin toward the hitting area; a first light receiver attached to the golf club and capable of receiving the guide laser light from the first irradiator; an indicator that indicates that the first light receiver receives the guide laser light; a second irradiator attached to the golf club and irradiating a guide sub-laser beam from the golf club toward the pin; a second light receiver attached to the pin and capable of receiving the guide sub-laser beam from the second irradiator, When the first light receiver receives the guide laser beam and the second light receiver receives the guide sub-laser beam, the indicator displays that fact.

10. The golf practice system according to claim 9, wherein:

4. a golf training device including a cup provided on a rolling surface of a golf ball (golf ball rolling surface) hit by a golf club, and a hitting area spaced apart from the cup and including the golf ball rolling surface, wherein a user standing in the hitting area hits the golf ball with the golf club toward the cup; a cup unit attached to the cup, the cup unit having a first detecting means for detecting cup-in information of the golf ball and a first transmitting device for transmitting the cup-in information to an external device; a pin unit having a first image capturing means attached to a rod-shaped pin that serves as a marker for the cup, capturing an image from the pin toward the hitting area, a second transmission device that transmits the first image data captured by the first image capturing means to an external device, and a first irradiator that irradiates a guide laser beam from the pin toward the hitting area; a club unit attached to a head of the golf club used by the user in the hitting area, the club unit including: a second detection means for detecting hitting information related to hitting the golf ball; a second image capturing means for capturing an image from the head toward the front; a second irradiator for irradiating a guide sub-laser light from the head toward the front; and a third transmission device for transmitting the hitting information and second image data captured by the second image capturing means to an external device; a control unit including: a first receiving device that receives, as monitor information, at least one of the cup-in information transmitted from the first transmitting device, the first video data transmitted from the second transmitting device, and the hitting information and the second video data transmitted from the third transmitting device; a control device that generates guide information for providing guidance for the user's golf play based on the monitor information; and a fourth transmitting device that transmits the guide information to an external device; a terminal device portable by the user, the terminal device having a second receiving device that receives the guide information transmitted from the fourth transmitting device, and a presenter that presents a guide for playing golf based on the guide information; A golf practice system comprising:

5. a first light receiver attached to the golf club and capable of receiving the guide laser light from the first irradiator; When the first light receiver receives the guide laser light, the presenter of the terminal device displays the fact.

5. The golf practice system according to claim 4.

6. a second light receiver attached to the pin unit and capable of receiving the guide sub-laser beam from the second irradiator; The presenter of the terminal device receives the guide laser beam with the first light receiver and receives the guide sub-laser beam with the second light receiver, and displays the fact.

6. The golf practice system according to claim 5.

7. a photographing unit including a third photographing means for photographing the user from at least one of the left and right sides and the rear in the hitting area, and a fifth transmitting device for transmitting third video data photographed by the third photographing means to an external device; 5. The golf practice system according to claim 4.

8. the photographing unit has a fourth photographing means that is disposed on the user's head and photographs a direction in which the user's line of sight is directed, The third transmitting device transmits the third video data and the fourth video data captured by the fourth imaging means to an external device.

8. The golf practice system according to claim 7.

9. In the club unit, the second irradiator includes a plurality of laser light sources arranged along the width direction of the head.

8. The golf practice system according to claim 4 or 7.

10. In the club unit, the second image capturing means includes a pair of stereo cameras provided at both ends of the head in the width direction.

8. The golf practice system according to claim 4 or 7.

11. In the club unit, the second detection means includes an angle sensor built into the head.

8. The golf practice system according to claim 4 or 7.

12. In the club unit, the second detection means includes an impact sensor built into the head.

8. The golf practice system according to claim 4 or 7.

13. The control device in the control unit analyzes at least one of the received first video data and the second video data, calculates play situation estimation data, and generates the guide information based on the calculated play situation estimation data.

8. The golf practice system according to claim 4 or 7.

14. In the control unit, the control device has a storage device that stores at least one of the cup-in information, the first video data, the hitting information, and the second video data as history information, and generates the guide information by taking into account the history information stored in the storage device.

14. The golf practice system of claim 13.

15. a control device in the control unit generating banner advertisement display information for displaying a predetermined banner advertisement together with the guide information; The presenter of the terminal device displays the banner advertisement based on the banner advertisement display information together with the guide information.

14. The golf practice system of claim 13.

16. The cup of the golf training machine is a cylindrical cup body having an opening at one end; a cup unit container that is installed inside the bottom of the cup body on the opposite side to the opening and that contains the cup unit; 5. The golf practice system according to claim 4.

17. The cup of the golf training machine is a cylindrical cup body having an opening at one end; a cup unit container that is disposed inside the bottom of the cup body on the opposite side to the opening and that contains the cup unit; an extendable rod mechanism that is housed in the cup main body below the cup unit container, is made of a rod-shaped member that is extendable and contractible along the depth direction of the cup and has a tip that protrudes outward from the opening of the cup in an extended state, and has a fifth imaging means attached to the tip for imaging the periphery of the cup.

5. The golf practice system according to claim 4.

18. The telescopic rod mechanism is configured so that when the pin is removed from the cup, the rod-shaped member automatically assumes the extended state, allowing the fifth imaging means to capture an image of the periphery of the cup.

18. The golf practice system of claim 17.

19. The pin unit includes: The pin is attached to the tip end of the pin in a detachable manner and the attachment position is adjustable along the longitudinal direction.

5. The golf practice system according to claim 4.

20. The terminal device is a head-mounted wearable terminal.

5. The golf practice system according to claim 4.

21. The golf club further includes an auxiliary device that is disposed behind the cup as viewed from the hitting area to provide a user with guidance on the direction of launch of the golf ball, the auxiliary device including a plate portion that marks the cup, ball position marks that are spaced apart from the plate portion in the left-right direction, and a laser light source that irradiates a laser light for guiding the direction of launch of the ball toward the user.

5. The golf practice system according to claim 3 or 4.

22. The assistive device includes a camera for capturing images of the surroundings, an audio device for inputting and outputting audio signals, a lighting device for illuminating the surroundings, a communication device for communicating with external devices, and a display device for displaying information.

22. The golf practice system of claim 21.

23. An auxiliary tool for a golf practice system includes a cup provided on the rolling surface of a golf ball (golf ball rolling surface) hit by a golf club, a hitting area separated from the cup and having the golf ball rolling surface, and a rod-shaped pin that is inserted into and removed from the cup and serves as a marker for the cup, attached to the pin to provide a user with guidance on the direction of launch of the golf ball; a plate portion that marks a cup on the golf ball rolling surface; a ball position mark that is disposed laterally spaced apart from the plate portion; and a laser light source that irradiates a laser light for guiding the ball's launch direction toward a user, The mounting position in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction relative to the pin can be adjusted.

1. An auxiliary device for a golf practice system.

24. 5. An auxiliary device for the golf practice system according to claim 3 or 4, provided to provide a user with guidance on the direction of launch of the golf ball; a plate portion that marks a cup on the golf ball rolling surface; a ball position mark that is disposed laterally spaced apart from the plate portion; and a laser light source that irradiates a laser light for guiding the ball's launch direction toward a user, The assistive device includes a camera for capturing images of the surroundings, an audio device for inputting and outputting audio signals, a lighting device for illuminating the surroundings, a communication device for communicating with external devices, and a display device for displaying information.

1. An auxiliary device for a golf practice system, comprising:

25. The golf ball is dropped into the cup.

5. The golf practice system according to claim 1, 3 or 4.

26. The cup unit further includes a lighting means for illuminating the inside of the cup.

26. The golf practice system of claim 25.

27. The pin is a human presence sensor that detects a person approaching the pin; and a lighting device that lights up when the human presence sensor detects the approach of a person.

5. The golf practice system according to claim 1, 3 or 4.

28. The golf club further includes an auxiliary pin, which is arranged to provide a user with guidance on the direction of launch of the golf ball, and which includes a rod-shaped pin located behind the cup and a laser light source attached to the pin for emitting a laser light for guiding the direction of launch of the ball toward the user.

5. The golf practice system according to claim 1, 3 or 4.

29. The auxiliary pin includes a camera for capturing images of the surroundings, an audio device for inputting and outputting audio signals, a lighting device for illuminating the surroundings, a communication device for communicating with external devices, and a display device for displaying information.

29. The golf practice system of claim 28.

30. The laser light source is adjustable in its mounting position in the vertical direction relative to the rod-shaped member.

29. The golf practice system of claim 28.

31. 5. The golf practice system according to claim 1, 3 or 4, further comprising an auxiliary pin, the auxiliary pin being arranged to provide a user with guidance on the direction of launch of the golf ball, the auxiliary pin being a rod-shaped pin located behind the cup, and a laser light source attached to the pin for emitting a laser light for guiding the direction of launch of the ball toward the user, The auxiliary pin includes a camera for capturing images of the surroundings, an audio device for inputting and outputting audio signals, a lighting device for illuminating the surroundings, a communication device for communicating with external devices, and a display device for displaying information.

1. An auxiliary pin in a golf practice system.

32. The pin is equipped with a camera for capturing images of the surroundings, an acoustic device for inputting and outputting acoustic signals, and a communication device for communicating with external devices.

2. The golf practice system according to claim 1.