Portable golf ball launch monitor

Abstract

A portable golf ball launch monitor including at least one camera, a processor and memory, a power source, a case, and at least one additional component. The processor is electronically connected to a memory and is programmed to determine golf ball flight information based upon information from the camera. The case maintains the camera, processor, memory and power source. The at least one additional component includes at least one of, optionally two or more of, a mobile device interface unit, a wireless charging unit, a near field communication (NFC) unit, a color LCD display, a barometer device, a support arm, and a strap, each of which optionally carried by, or connected to, the case.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] The present disclosure is directed to golf ball measurement systems. More particularly, it relates to portable golf ball launch monitors.

[0002] A golf ball launch monitor is an electronic device for assisting a golfer in improving his or her game. More particularly, the monitor is used to analyze the initial path of the golf ball after it has been struck by a golf club, and to present to the golfer the likely flight path information for the ball. Typically, the flight path information will include ball speed, ball direction, back spin, side spin, tilt axis, projected carry distance, horizontal launch angle, vertical launch angle, etc. Current launch monitors are vision-based (one or more cameras or other imagers) or radar-based.

[0003] Many golfers desire the ability to easily transport, set-up, and operate the launch monitor at various locales (e.g., practice range, golf course holes (such as tee boxes, fairways, sand traps, and greens), at home, etc.). As such, portable launch monitors have become increasingly popular and generally entail a single case or housing maintaining all components necessary to analyze and convey likely flight path information (sensors, processor operating hardware / software, power supply, display, etc.). The case has a relatively small footprint and can be carried to and from a desired point of use. Typically, the user attempts to place the case on a stable surface at the point of use and orients the case so that the sensor(s) are facing the ball to be struck. After each ball strike, the launch monitor analyzes the ball flight and displays the determined flight path information to the user.

[0004] Given their wide popularity, any improvements to available portable golf ball launch monitors will be well-received.SUMMARY

[0005] The inventors of the present disclosure have recognized a need to address one or more of the above-mentioned problems.

[0006] Some aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a portable golf ball launch monitor. The launch monitor includes at least one camera, a processor and memory, a power source, a case, and at least one additional component. The processor is electronically connected to a memory and is programmed to determine golf ball flight information based upon information from the at least one camera. The case maintains the at least one camera, the processor, the memory and the power source. The at least one additional component includes at least one of a mobile device interface unit, a wireless charging unit, a near field communication (NFC) unit, a color LCD display, a barometer device, a support arm, and a strap. Where provided, the mobile device interface unit is carried by the case and is configured to wirelessly communicate with a mobile electronic device. In some embodiments, the mobile device interface unit includes programming adapted to prompt the display of at least some determined golf ball flight information on a display of the mobile electronic device. Where provided, the wireless charging unit is carried by the case and is configured to wirelessly charge a battery of the mobile electronic device. Where provided, the NFC unit is carried by the case and includes an NFC transmitter. In some embodiments, one or more of the mobile device interface unit, the wireless charging unit and / or the NFC unit includes a support assembly formed on or carried by the case that is configured to receive and maintain the mobile electronic device. Where provided, the color LCD display is carried by the case and is operable to display at least a portion of the determined golf ball flight information. Where provided, the barometer device is carried by the case and is configured to sense a parameter indicative of atmospheric pressure. Where provided, the support arm selectively extends from a base end of the case and is configured to enhance a stability of the launch monitor during use. Where provided, the strap selectively secured to the case and is configured to facilitate convenient handling by a user when transporting the launch monitor.

[0007] In some examples, the portable golf ball launch monitors of the present disclosure include only one of the additional components. In other example, the portable golf ball launch monitors of the present disclosure can include or incorporate two or more of the components.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a portable golf ball launch monitor in accordance with principles of the present disclosure;

[0009] FIG. 2A is a front perspective view of a portable golf ball launch monitor in accordance with principles of the present disclosure;

[0010] FIG. 2B is a rear perspective view of the portable golf ball launch monitor of FIG. 2A;

[0011] FIG. 3 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of a portion of the portable golf ball launch monitor of FIG. 2A;

[0012] FIG. 4 is a side plan view of the portable golf ball launch monitor of FIG. 2A in use with a mobile electronic device;

[0013] FIG. 5 is a front plan view of the portable golf ball launch monitor of FIG. 2A in use with a mobile electronic device;

[0014] FIGS. 6A and 6B are side plan views of a portable golf ball launch monitor in accordance with principles of the present disclosure; and

[0015] FIG. 7 is a front plan view of a portable golf ball launch monitor in accordance with principles of the present disclosure, with portions shown in simplified form.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] Some aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a portable golf ball launch monitor capable of generating flight path information along with one or more additional features. With this in mind, one example of a portable golf ball launch monitor 20 is shown in FIG. 1 and includes a case 30 maintaining core components for analyzing and generating ball flight path information, such as one or more processor(s) 40 coupled to one or more memories 42, one or more cameras 44, and a battery or other power source 46. As described below, the processor(s) 40 is adapted (e.g., by executing program code stored as software or firmware in the memory 42) to extract data from images captured by the camera(s) 44 relating to flight of a golf ball in the field of view, and determine or calculate flight path information from the extracted data. In addition to the core components, the case 30 maintains, carries and / or forms a part of one or more additional, optional features or components of the portable golf ball launch monitor 20, such as a mobile device interface unit 50, a wireless charging unit 52, a near field communication (NFC) unit 54, a display 56, barometer device 58, and / or a support arm 60. In some examples, the portable golf ball launch monitors of the present disclosure can optionally further include a strap 62 that can be connected to the case 30. Each of the optional components 50-62 are described in greater detail below, and generally serve to enhance a user's experience. In some examples, the portable golf ball launch monitors of the present disclosure include only one of the components 50-62. In other example, the portable golf ball launch monitors of the present disclosure can include or incorporate two or more of the components 50-62.

[0017] The program code operated by the processor(s) 40, as well as the type(s) and number of the camera(s) 44, can incorporate or utilize a wide variety of techniques and algorithms to monitor and analyze (e.g., calculate) golf ball flight path information of interest (e.g., ball speed, ball direction, back spin, side spin, tilt axis, projected carry distance, horizontal launch angle, vertical launch angle, etc.) based upon extracted data from the camera(s) 44 and other, optional data sources or sensors (not shown) as employed with launch monitors currently available or developed in the future. In more general terms, the processor(s) 40 can be one or more of a microprocessor, a microcontroller, an embedded microprocessor, an embedded controller, a digital signal processor (DSP), etc., configured to execute program codes stored in the memory 42 (e.g., read-only memory, random-access memory, flash memory, USB drives, or the like or combinations thereof). The processor(s) 40 can further cooperate with the memory 42 to store data. In some examples, the processor(s) 40 can be configured (e.g., via the program code) to perform several calculations which include detecting the placement of the golf ball (as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,641,565 and 7,497,780 the entire teachings of each of which are incorporated herein by reference), calculating the flight parameters (as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 7,324,664 and U.S. Application Publication No. 2018 / 0133578 the entire teachings of each of which are incorporated herein by reference), aligning the device relative to earth tangential (as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 7,292,711 the entire teachings of which are incorporated herein by reference), calculating the position of the golf club during impact (as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 8,951,138 the entire teachings of which are incorporated herein by reference), etc.

[0018] The battery / power source 46 provides electrical power to the other electronic components of the portably golf ball launch monitor 20, and can be configured to provide electrical power without requiring a wired power connection. In some embodiments, the battery 46 can be associated with a separate power source for charging the battery 46 and / or providing dedicated power to one or more of the electrical components. With this in mind, the battery 46 can assume a wide variety of forms, for example a lithium-ion battery.

[0019] In some examples, the core components of the portable golf ball launch monitors of the present disclosure can be, or can be akin to, those provided with launch monitors available from Foresight Sports of San Diego, CA. In some non-limiting embodiments, the portable golf ball launch monitors of the present disclosure can utilize the monitoring and analyzing technologies provided with the GC3® launch monitor available from Foresight Sports. As a point of reference, the Foresight Sports GC3® launch monitor uses three high-speed / high-resolution cameras to capture hundreds of images of a golf ball within the first 30 centimeters of its flight. The cameras are positioned from different perspectives to create a 3D image of the ball's movement. Camera-based launch monitors, like the GC3®, typically take multiple images of the ball, usually from a position slightly in front and opposite the golfer at address. The cameras are calibrated and the images are then compared to determine how the ball is moving after impact. The GC3® uses a combination of high-speed, high-resolution camera-based technology to precisely measure ball launch performance and infrared object tracking to measure club head performance. Other core component configurations are equally acceptable. For example, more or less than three of the cameras 44 can be provided, with the program code operated by the processor(s) 40 formatted to extract and analyze image data accordingly.

[0020] With the above explanations of the core components 40-46 in mind, the mobile device interface unit 50 can assume various forms and is generally configured to facilitate a user's personal mobile electronic device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, etc.) serving as a display for the portable golf ball launch monitor 20. As a point of reference, portable golf ball launch monitors conventionally include an on-board display device (e.g., a basic LCD screen) for conveying information to the user, such as determined golf ball flight path information, operating instructions, status information, prompting user actions, etc., with the processor(s) 40 programmed to prompt operation of the display device in a particular manner. With optional embodiments of the present disclosure that include the mobile device interface unit 50, the portable golf ball launch monitor 20 need not include an on-board display device and / or can provide a user with the ability to use his / her personal mobile electronic device in place of the on-board display device.

[0021] The mobile device interface unit 50 generally includes an electronic device support assembly defined by or carried along an exterior of the case 30, along with appropriate electronics / circuity components appropriate for electronically interfacing with a personal mobile electronic device housed within the case 30. The electronics and circuitry components can assume various forms and include a wireless communication module incorporating known wireless technologies (e.g., a transceiver) formatted to communicate with a personal mobile electronic device (e.g., Bluetooth™, near field communication (NFC), etc.). Program code can be provided with the mobile device interface unit 50 (e.g., stored in the memory 42 and operated by the processor(s) 40 or a dedicated processor provided with the mobile device interface unit 50), programmed to prompt delivery of data to, and process data received from, the personal mobile electronic device via the wireless communication module. In this regard, the electronics and circuitry components can be configured to recognize and wirelessly communicate with a software application operating on different mobile electronic device operating system formats (e.g., iOS, Android, etc.) such that most any available personal mobile electronic device can be employed with the launch monitor 20. Regardless, the electronic device support assembly is configured to receive and maintain the personal mobile electronic device in close proximity to the wireless communication module (thus better ensuring a stable wireless connection). Further, the electronic device support assembly naturally locates a display screen of the personal mobile electronic device at a location and orientation that convenient for a user to visualize. Example formats of the support assembly are described in greater detail below.

[0022] As implied by the above, in some examples the mobile device interface unit 50 is configured or programmed to prompt operation of a software application (or “app”) running on the personal mobile electronic device. With these and related embodiments, a user first loads the app onto his or her personal mobile electronic device and then connects the personal mobile electronic device to the mobile device interface unit 50. Programming code provided with the launch monitor 20 then operates to prompt the personal mobile electronic device, via the app, to display information in a designated format, such as determined golf ball flight information following a ball strike. With these and related embodiments, the so-connected personal mobile electronic device can further be operated, via programming of the mobile interface unit 50 interfacing with the app, to receive and deliver user prompts.

[0023] The wireless charging unit 52 can assume various forms, and is configured to wirelessly charge a personal mobile electronic device. In general terms, the wireless charging unit 52 includes wireless charger components and an electronic device support assembly defined by or carried along an exterior of the case 30. The wireless charger components are configured to facilitate charging of a battery associated with a mobile electronic device, and conventionally include a transmitter coil and corresponding circuitry appropriate to cause the transmitter coil to interface with a receiver coil carried by the mobile electronic device via electromagnetic induction. In some embodiments, a power source is electrically connected to the wireless charger components prior to use. Regardless, the electronic device support assembly is configured to receive and maintain the personal mobile electronic device in close proximity to the transmitter coil. Example formats of the support assembly are described in greater detail below.

[0024] In some embodiments, the wireless charging unit 52 can be provided with or as part of the mobile device interface unit 50 (with the units 50, 52 sharing the same electronic device support assembly). With these and related embodiments, a personal mobile electronic device, as received and maintained by the electronic device support assembly, can simultaneously interface with the wireless communication module of the mobile device interface unit 50 and the transmitter coil of the wireless charging unit 52. In other embodiments, the golf ball launch monitors of the present disclosure can include the mobile device interface unit 50 and exclude the wireless charging unit 52, and vice-versa.

[0025] The near field communication (NFC) unit 54 can assume various forms, and is configured to wirelessly communicate (e.g., wirelessly exchange data) with a personal mobile electronic device. In general terms, the NFC unit 54 includes an NFC device and an electronic device support assembly defined by or carried along an exterior of the case 30. The NFC device components are configured to facilitate NFC communication, and conventionally include an NFC transmitter appropriate for short-range wireless communication with a compatible device (e.g., an electronic device carrying an NFC chip) via radio frequency waves. The electronic device support assembly is configured to receive and maintain the personal mobile electronic device in relatively proximity to the transmitter of the NFC unit 54. Example formats of the support assembly are described in greater detail below.

[0026] In some embodiments, the NFC unit 54 can be provided with or as part of the mobile device interface unit 50 (with the units 50, 55 sharing the same electronic device support assembly). With these and related embodiments, a personal mobile electronic device, as received and maintained by the electronic device support assembly, can simultaneously interface with the wireless communication module of the mobile device interface unit 50 and the transmitter of the NFC unit 54. In other embodiments, the golf ball launch monitors of the present disclosure can include the mobile device interface unit 50 and exclude the NFC unit 54, and vice-versa.

[0027] As explained above, in some embodiments the portable golf ball launch monitors of the present disclosure are configured to utilize a user's personal mobile electronic device to display information (e.g., flight path information) to the user via the mobile device interface unit 50 and do not include or require an on-board display. In other embodiments, the on-board display 56 can be included. Where provided, the display 56 can assume various forms, and is carried by the case 30 so as to be readily visible during use. In some examples, the display 56 is or includes a color liquid-crystal display (LCD), such as an LCD screen made up of sub-pixels that are red, green, and blue. In related embodiments, a graphic operating system (e.g., Android OA) can be associated with the display 56. Regardless, the display 56 is electronically connected to the processor(s) 40 that operates to prompt the display 56 to present determined information in a designated format.

[0028] The barometer device 58 can assume various forms and is generally configured to measure atmospheric pressure. The barometer device 58 can include a barometric pressure sensor formatted to measure atmospheric pressure and height changes (e.g., a piezo-resistive type barometric pressure sensor). Data generated by the barometric pressure sensor can be signaled directly to the processor(s) 40 and / or the barometer device 58 can include electrical components / circuitry appropriate for converting raw data from the barometric pressure sensor into a format useful with various algorithm(s) being operated by the processor(s) 40. In some examples, the sensed atmospheric pressure can be displayed to the use. In other examples, the golf ball flight analysis algorithms or models operated by the processor(s) 40 can be adjusted or account for the measured atmospheric pressure. In yet other, related embodiments, the barometer device 58 can further include a temperature sensor, with the golf ball flight analysis algorithms or models operated by the processor(s) 40 being programmed to also adjust or account for measured temperature. In other embodiments, the barometer device 58 can be omitted.

[0029] One example of a portable golf ball launch monitor 120 in accordance with principles of the present disclosure is shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. The portable golf ball launch monitor 120 can include one or more of the features described above with respect to the launch monitor 20 (FIG. 1) and includes a case 130. The case 130 can have various shapes and sizes, and in some embodiments has a generally elongated shape defining a base end 170, an upper region 172 opposite the base end 170, a front face 174, and a rear face 176 opposite the front face 174. The case 130 forms or defines an open interior region within which various components are housed or maintained, including the core components described above such as the processor(s) 40 (hidden), the memory 42 (hidden), the cameras 44, and battery / power 46 (hidden). As a point of reference, FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate the portable golf ball launch monitor 120 in an upright, in-use orientation in which the base end 170 is placed on a ground (or other) surface. In this regard, the base end 170 can form or define a substantially flat or planar surface (i.e., within 10 percent of a truly flat or planar surface) to enhance a stability of the case 130 in the upright orientation.

[0030] With the non-limiting example of FIGS. 2A and 2B, the portable golf ball launch monitor 120 incorporates three of the cameras 44. The cameras 44 can assume various forms appropriate for capturing images (e.g., high resolution images). One or more of the cameras 44 can be provided as part of a camera system that further includes one or more lamps or lights 180 that operate to illuminate the corresponding camera's field of view (e.g., the lamps 180 can be formatted to emit electromagnetic radiation in the visible light spectrum, infrared spectrum, etc.). Regardless, an opening is formed in the front face 174 for each of the cameras 44, such that the field of view of the cameras 44 overlap (e.g., the cameras 44 are all arranged to capture images proximate the front face 174). While the cameras 44 are shown as being vertically aligned (in the upright orientation), other arrangements are also acceptable.

[0031] The portable golf ball launch monitor 120 further includes the mobile device interface unit 50 (FIG. 1). The mobile device interface unit 50 includes the electronics / circuity components (hidden) appropriate for electronically interfacing with a personal mobile electronic device as described above housed within the case 130, and an electronic device support assembly 190 (referenced generally) formed by, or carried at, an exterior of the case 130 at the upper region 172. The electronic device support assembly 190 includes a platform 200 and one or more floor bodies, such as floor bodies 202a, 202b. An exterior face of the platform 200 is substantially flat or planar (i.e., within 10 percent of a truly flat or planar surface), and is sized and shaped in accordance with the size and shape of many available personal mobile electronic devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets, etc.). Thus, the platform 200 can have the generally rectangular perimeter shape as shown, corresponding with the generally rectangular footprint of most mobile electronic devices. In that most, if not all, personal mobile electronic devices are relatively thin with a substantially flat, rectangular rear face, the platform 200 is configured to readily receive and support the rear face of a personal mobile electronic device placed or laid on the platform 200. In some embodiments, a length and width of the platform 200 is substantially similar to a length and width (i.e., within 10 percent of an identical length and width) of most available smartphone (regardless of manufacturer).

[0032] A spatial arrangement of the upper region 172 relative to the base end 170 is such that a major plane defined by the exterior face of the platform 200 is non-parallel and non-perpendicular to a major plane defined by the base end 170. Thus, for example, in the upright arrangement of FIG. 2A in which the base end 170 resides on a horizontal surface such that the major plane of the base end 170 is also horizontal, the major plane of the platform 200 will be arranged at non-parallel and non-perpendicular angle relative to horizontal. Stated otherwise, the platform 200 can be viewed as defining or terminating at a top edge 210 opposite a bottom edge 212. In the upright orientation, the top edge 210 is vertically above the bottom edge 212. With these designations in mind, an angle or “tilt” of the platform 200 relative to the base end 170 can be characterized by the bottom edge 212 being spatially closer to the front face 174 as compared to the top edge 210. Stated otherwise, a shape of the front face 174 generally defines a major plane (that, in the upright orientation, is substantially vertical); a linear distance between the bottom edge 212 and the front face major plane is less that a liner distance between the top edge 210 and the front face major plane. Thus, the platform 200 has a vertically downward component in extension from the top edge 210 to the bottom edge 212. In other examples, the case 130 can be configured to arrange the major plane of the exterior face of the platform 200 to be substantially parallel with the major plane of the base end 170 (such that when the base end 170 is placed on a flat surface and is substantially horizontal, the plane of the platform 200 will also be substantially horizontal).

[0033] The floor bodies 202a, 202b can assume various forms, each terminating at a contact face 220. The contact faces 220 are located proximate the bottom edge 212 (opposite the top edge 210), in general alignment with a footprint of the platform 200. The contact faces 220 can be co-planar, with a distance between the contact face 220 of the first floor body 202a and the contact face 220 of the second floor body 202b being less than the length of most, if not all, available personal mobile communication devices (e.g., less than the length of most smartphones). Further, and with additional reference to FIG. 3, a thickness or extent of outward projection of each of the floor bodies 202a, 202b (the floor body 202b being visible in FIG. 3), at least in a region of the corresponding contact face 220, is greater than that of the platform 200. Stated otherwise, in the view of FIG. 3, a shape of an exterior face 224 of the case 130 along the upper region 172 defines an upper region primary plane P1. Projection of each of the contact faces 220 (one of which is visible in FIG. 3) beyond the primary plane P1 is greater than a projection of the platform 200 beyond the primary plane P1. With this construction, and as shown in FIG. 4, when the case 130 is arranged in the upright orientation and a mobile electronic device 230 is placed or laid flat on the platform 200, the mobile electronic device 230 will naturally slide to and bear against the contact faces 220 under the force of gravity. The floor bodies 202a, 202b (one of which is visible in FIG. 4) thus support and maintain the mobile electronic device 230 on the platform 200.

[0034] Returning to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the electronic device support assembly 190 can have other configurations differing from the two floor bodies 202a, 202b to establish at least one contact face 220“below” the platform 200. For example, a single cross-member can be formed. Further, the electronic device support assembly 190 can include one or more additional features that assist in retaining a mobile electronic device relative to the platform 200. For example, ribs 240 can be formed or provided proximate, but spaced from, opposing side edges of the platform 200. A linear distance or spacing between the ribs 240 can approximate (e.g., is slightly greater than) the length of most smartphones or other mobile electronic devices. With this construction, the ribs 240 can impede or prevent overt side-to-side movement of a mobile electronic device that is lying flat on the platform 200.

[0035] The mobile device interface unit 50 can optionally include one or more features that inform or encourage a user to place his or her mobile electronic device on the platform 200. For example, indicia 250 can be formed or displayed on the exterior face of the platform 200 that readily conveys to the user where the mobile electronic device should be placed. To better ensure a robust wireless connection with the so-positioned mobile electronic device, the transceiver (or similar component) of the wireless communication module can be located at, or in close proximity to, an underside of the platform 200. Regardless, and as shown in FIG. 5, when the mobile electronic device 230 is placed on the platform 200 (hidden) and linked to the wireless communication module, the portable golf ball launch monitor 120 can operate to convey information to a user at a display 260 of the mobile electronic device 230.

[0036] With additional reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B, though hidden in the views, the portable golf ball launch monitor 120 optionally includes the wireless charging unit 52 (FIG. 1). The wireless charging unit 52 can incorporate or utilize the electronic device support assembly 190 as described above, with the transmitter coil of the wireless charging unit 52 located at, or in close proximity to, an underside of the platform 200. With this construction, when the mobile electronic device 230 is placed on the platform 200 as in the arrangement of FIG. 5, the transmitter coil will readily interface with a receiver coil of the mobile electronic device 230 to effect charging of the mobile electronic device's battery.

[0037] Though primarily hidden in the views, the portable golf ball launch monitor 120 optionally includes the NFC unit 54 (FIG. 1). The NFC unit 54 can incorporate or utilize the electronic device support assembly 190 as described above, with the transmitter of the NFC unit 54 located at, or in close proximity to, an underside of the platform 200. To better ensure a robust NFC wireless connection, indicia 270 can be formed or displayed on the exterior face of the platform 200 that readily conveys to the user a general location of the NFC transmitter, and thus a desired orientation of the user's mobile electronic device relative to the platform 200. Regardless, when the mobile electronic device 230 is placed on the platform 200 as in the arrangement of FIG. 5, the NFC transmitter of the NFC unit 54 will readily interface with the NFC chip of the mobile electronic device 230 to complete an NFC connection / wireless communications.

[0038] As mentioned above, in some embodiments the portable golf ball launch monitors of the present disclosure can include or incorporate the on-board display 56 (FIG. 1), for example a color LCD display and corresponding graphic operating system. With this in mind, in some examples, a size, shape, and location of the platform 200 in FIGS. 2A and 2B is indicative of a useful location for the on-board display 56 (e.g., the platform 200 can be replaced with a color LCD display).

[0039] Though hidden in the views, the portable golf ball launch monitor 120 optionally includes the barometer device 58. The barometric pressure sensor (and optional temperature sensor) are housed inside of the case 130.

[0040] A size and shape of the case 130 is configured to stably maintain the portable golf ball launch monitor 120 in the upright orientation with the base end 170 placed or residing on a relatively flat surface (e.g., ground). A footprint of the base end 170 is relatively large, thus preventing the portable golf ball launch monitor 120 from tipping under expected conditions (e.g., windy environment, user interfacing with components of launch monitor 120, incidental contact with a side of the case 130, etc.). In some embodiments, one or more additional stability features can be provided, such as the optional support arm 60 of FIG. 1. The support arm 60 can assume various forms and is generally configured to enhance a stability of the case 130 when placed on a surface (e.g., ground) during use. For example, FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a portable golf ball launch monitor 320 in accordance with principles of the present disclosure. The portable golf ball launch monitor 320 can be akin to the portable golf ball monitor 120 (FIGS. 2A and 2B) described above, and include a case 330 maintaining the core components (e.g., the processor(s) 40 (FIG. 1), the memory 42 (FIG. 1), the cameras 44 (FIG. 1), and the battery / power 46 (FIG. 1), as well as one or more of the optional components 50-58 (FIG. 1). The case 330 includes a main body 340 and a support arm assembly 342. The main body 340 can be akin to the case 130 (FIGS. 2A and 2B) at least in terms of size and shape. The support arm assembly 342 includes a support arm 350 and a connection mechanism (hidden) that connects the support arm 350 to the main body 340.

[0041] The support arm 350 can have various shapes and sizes, and is generally configured as an elongated, substantially flat (i.e., within 10 percent of truly flat) body. In some examples, at least some dimensions of the support arm 350 correspond with those of the main body 340. For example, a length and width of the support arm 350 can be less than a depth and width of the main body 340 (at least in a region of the base end 170) for reasons made clear below.

[0042] In addition to securing the support arm 350 and the main body 340, the connection mechanism can be configured to facilitate sliding movement of the support arm 350 relative to the main body 340 between a deployed arrangement (FIG. 6A) and a storage arrangement (FIG. 6B). In some embodiments, the connection mechanism includes one or more rails (not shown) along an interior of the main body 340 that slidably support the support arm 350. With this arrangement, during periods of non-use, the support arm 350 can be slid into, and held within, an interior of the main body (i.e., the storage arrangement of FIG. 6B). In the deployed arrangement of FIG. 6A, the support arm 350 effectively serves as an extension of the base end 170, increasing an overall footprint or contact surface area with the ground surface to enhance stability of the portable golf ball launch monitor 320 during use. Other connection mechanism configurations are also acceptable. For example, the support arm 350 can be pivotably connected to an exterior of the main body 340, allowing the support arm 350 to be articulated between a storage arrangement (e.g., in which the support arm 350 extends along an exterior of the main body 340) and a deployed arrangement.

[0043] Returning to FIG. 1, the case 30 can be configured to provide one or more features that promote convenient handling by a user when transporting the portable golf ball launch monitor 20 from location to location. For example, and as shown with the case 130 of FIG. 2B, a handle 370 can be formed or provided. Alternatively or in addition, the portable golf ball launch monitors of the present disclosure can optionally include the strap 62. The strap 62 can assume various forms, and is generally configured to be secured to the case 30 and can then be grasped by the user's hand and / or draped over the user's shoulder when transporting the portable golf ball launch monitor 20.

[0044] For example, FIG. 7 illustrate a portable golf ball launch monitor 420 in accordance with principles of the present disclosure. The portable golf ball launch monitor 420 can be akin to the portable golf ball monitor 120 (FIGS. 2A and 2B) described above, and include a case 430 maintaining the core components (e.g., the processor(s) 40 (FIG. 1), the memory 42 (FIG. 1), the cameras 44 (FIG. 1), and the battery / power 46 (FIG. 1), as well as one or more of the optional components 50-60 (FIG. 1). In addition, the portable golf ball launch monitor 420 includes a strap 440.

[0045] The strap 440 can have a variety of shapes and sizes, and is generally an elongated body terminating at opposing ends 450, 452. In some embodiments, the portable golf ball launch monitor 420 is configured such that the strap 440 can be removably connected to the case 430. For example, a user can attach the strap 440 to the case 430 when transporting the portable golf ball launch monitor 420, and can remove the strap 440 from the case 430 during periods of use (e.g., when operating the portable golf ball launch monitor 420 to monitor / analyze ball flight information). Releasable attachment of the strap 440 to the case 430 can be accomplished in various manners. In some examples, the strap 440 can further include a looped segment extending between the ends 450, 452 and sized to receive the case 430. In other examples, the case 430 forms or defines posts 460, 462 at opposite sides thereof. The ends 450, 452 of the strap 440 and the posts 460, 462 have complementary constructions whereby the ends 450, 452 can be readily attached to, and removed from, a corresponding one of the posts 460, 462. For example, the ends 450, 452 can each define an aperture that is sized and shaped to be received over a corresponding one of the posts 460, 462. Regardless of an exact form, the posts 460, 462 are, in some embodiments, extend from an outer surface of the case 430 at a location that is substantially aligned (i.e., within 10 percent of truly aligned) with a center of gravity of the portable golf ball launch monitor 420. With this arrangement, a user may more comfortably carry the portable golf ball launch monitor 420 by grasping the strap 440 and / or with the strap 440 draped over the user's shoulder. Other configurations are equally acceptable.

[0046] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes can be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A portable golf ball launch monitor comprising:at least one camera;a processor electronically connected to a memory and programmed to determine golf ball flight information based upon information from the at least one camera;a power source;a case maintaining the at least one camera, the processor, the memory and the power source; anda mobile device interface unit carried by the case and configured to wirelessly communicate with a mobile electronic device.

2. The portable golf ball launch monitor of claim 1, wherein the mobile device interface unit includes a transceiver contained within the case for wirelessly communicating with the mobile electronic device, and an electronic device support assembly formed at an exterior of the case for receiving and maintaining the mobile electronic device relative to the transceiver.

3. The portable golf ball launch monitor of claim 2, wherein the electronic device support assembly includes a platform sized and shaped to receive and support a major face of the mobile electronic device.

4. The portable golf ball launch monitor of claim 3, wherein the case has an elongated shape, extending from a base end to an upper region, wherein the platform is formed along the upper region, and further wherein a major plane defined by the platform is non-perpendicular and non-parallel with a major plane defined by the base end.

5. The portable golf ball launch monitor of claim 4, wherein the platform defines a top edge opposite a bottom edge, and wherein relative to an upright orientation of the case in which the base end rests on a horizontal surface, the bottom edge is vertically below the top edge, and further wherein the electronic device support assembly further includes a floor body defining a contact face proximate the bottom edge.

6. The portable golf ball launch monitor of claim 5, wherein the electronic device support assembly is configured such that with the case in the upright orientation and the mobile electronic device lying flat on the platform, the mobile electronic device bears against and is supported by the contact face.

7. The portable golf ball launch monitor of claim 3, wherein the transceiver is maintained proximate an underside of the platform.

8. The portable golf ball launch monitor of claim 1, further comprising a wireless charging unit carried by the case and configured to wirelessly charge a battery of the mobile electronic device.

9. The portable golf ball launch monitor of claim 8, wherein the wireless charging unit includes a transmitter coil maintained within the case for electrically interfacing with a receiver coil of the mobile electronic device, and an electronic device support assembly formed at an exterior of the case for receiving and maintaining the mobile electronic device relative to the transmitter coil.

10. The portable golf ball launch monitor of claim 9, wherein the electronic device support assembly includes a platform sized and shaped to receive and support a major face of the mobile electronic device, and further wherein the transmitter coil is located at an underside of the platform.

11. The portable golf ball launch monitor of claim 1, further comprising a near field communication (NFC) unit carried by the case.

12. The portable golf ball launch monitor of claim 11, wherein the NFC unit includes an NFC transmitter maintained within the case for wirelessly communicating with an NFC receiver of the mobile electronic device, and an electronic device support assembly formed at an exterior of the case for receiving and maintaining the mobile electronic device relative to the transmitter coil.

13. The portable golf ball launch monitor of claim 12, wherein the electronic device support assembly includes a platform sized and shaped to receive and support a major face of the mobile electronic device, and further wherein the NFC transmitter is located at an underside of the platform.

14. The portable golf ball launch monitor of claim 1, further comprising a color LCD display carried by the case and operable to display at least a portion of the determined golf ball flight information.

15. The portable golf ball launch monitor of claim 1, further comprising a barometer device carried by the case and configured to sense a parameter indicative of atmospheric pressure.

16. The portable golf ball launch monitor of claim 15, wherein the barometer device includes a barometric pressure sensor, and further wherein the processor is programmed to account for atmospheric pressure as measured by the barometric pressure sensor in determining golf ball flight information.

17. The portable golf ball launch monitor of claim 1, further comprising a support arm selectively extending from a base end of the case.

18. The portable golf ball launch monitor of claim 1, further comprising a strap selectively secured to the case.

19. A portable golf ball launch monitor comprising:at least one camera;a processor electronically connected to a memory and programmed to determine golf ball flight information based upon information from the at least one camera;a power source;a case maintaining the at least one camera, the processor, the memory and the power source;a mobile device interface unit carried by the case and configured to wirelessly communicate with a mobile electronic device, wherein the mobile device interface unit includes a near field communication (NFC) transmitter; anda wireless charging unit carried by the case and configured to wirelessly charge a battery of the mobile electronic device;20. A portable golf ball launch monitor comprising:at least one camera;a processor electronically connected to a memory and programmed to determine golf ball flight information based upon information from the at least one camera;a power source;a case maintaining the at least one camera, the processor, the memory and the power source;a color LCD display carried by the case and operable to display at least a portion of the determined golf ball flight information;a barometer device carried by the case and configured to sense a parameter indicative of atmospheric pressure;a support arm selectively extending from a base end of the case; anda strap selectively secured to the case.

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