Remote golf club fitting system and method

Abstract

Methods and systems for remote fitting of golf clubs generally comprising assembling a set of test golf clubs at a first location, with the test golf clubs arranged to be swung by a golfer to determine the best golf club characteristics for the golfer’s swing. An order is placed for delivery of the set of test golf clubs to a second location remote to the first location. The clubs in set of test clubs are swung at the second location and swing data is recorded from the swinging of the clubs. The swing data is transmitted to the first location where it can be analyzed to provide recommendations and the best golf club fir based on the swing data.

Description

[0001] This application is a continuation of and claims priority of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 18 / 220,514 filed July 11, 2023, which claims priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 388,032, filed July 11, 2022, both entitled SYSTEM AND DEVICES TO ASSESS PROPER CLUB CHOICE FOR GOLFERS and both by Daniel Rogers, Chad Dietz, and Morgan Steven.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The field of this invention relates generally to the field of golf club fitting and instruction and more particularly toward a system that utilizes specialized golf equipment to fit clubs to an individual golfer.DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART

[0003] Golfing is a difficult yet very popular sport. Part of the difficulty in attaining skill in the game is making sure that the golfer is using the proper club for his or her frame and skill level.

[0004] There are many variables that affect club choice and accordingly a lot of time and money can be spent stabbing in the dark trying to find the proper club. Typically, when fitting a golfer, a large number of clubs are used for the determination which take up a lot of space and can be quite cumbersome.

[0005] Conventional fitting methods also rely on the customer coming to the location of the golf clubs and club selection professional, which is typically and brick and mortar golf shop or sporting goods store, or at golf course. There are many locations where it is not convenient to travel to these locations, and there is no system whereby the clubs for testing and fitting, and the actual fitting process can be brought to the location of the golfer instead of the golfer traveling to these locations. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] It is the object of the instant invention to provide a system with specialized assessment clubs to determine via a software algorithm based on data gathered through the specialized assessment with each of the specialized assessment clubs to determine the proper club to use for an individual golfer.

[0007] It is a further object of the instant invention to provide a system with specialized assessment clubs that is streamlined and simple 30 to use and that gives the individual golfer a satisfied experience in that the time taken to assess was exhaustive yet simple.

[0008] Some of the embodiments according to the present invention teach a system of assessing proper club choice for a golfer, comprising the steps of: collecting a plurality of specialized golf clubs, said specialized golf clubs being crafted to isolate a variety of variable golf club characteristics, said variable golf club characteristics being taken from the group comprising: sole design, lie angle, swing weight, total weigh, shaft kick point, grip size, shaft flex, club length; hitting a golf ball with each of the specialized golf clubs at least one time against an interface, said interface being configured to collect data associated with the impact of said golf ball against said interface; collecting said data through a data collector attached to said interface; entering said data in a computer software program which determines the appropriate golf club for said golfer based on said data collected.

[0009] These embodiments can be further modified by defining that said plurality of specialized golf clubs are identified with a marker to determine which of said variable golf club characteristics is being measured.

[0010] These embodiments can be further modified by defining that said marker is a color-coded ring attached to each of said plurality of specialized golf clubs.

[0011] These embodiments can be further modified by defining that said plurality of specialized golf clubs contains two or more different values for each of said variable golf club characteristics.

[0012] Embodiments of the present invention can also comprise systems and methos for remote fitting of golf clubs comprising testing of golf clubs to determine the best club fit for a particular golfer using swing data from swinging the golf clubs. An algorithm can be used to determine the recommended club based on the swing data, or the swing data can be received and analyzed by a club selection professional who determines the recommended club characteristics based on the swing data.

[0013] One embodiment of a method for remote fitting of golf clubs according to the present invention comprising assembling a set of test golf clubs at a first location, with the test golf clubs arranged to be swung by a golfer to determine the best golf club characteristics for the golfer’s swing.

[0014] The method further includes placing an order for delivery of the set of test golf clubs to a second location remote to the first location. The clubs in set of test clubs are swung at the second location and swing data is recorded from the swinging of the clubs. The method further includes transmitting the swing data to the first location where it can be analyzed to provide recommendations and the best golf club fit based on the swing data.

[0015] On embodiment of a system for remote fitting of golf clubs comprises a first computer and a set of test golf clubs at a first location. A second computer is included at a second location that is in communication with the first computer, wherein the second computer is capable of sending a message to the first computer ordering the set of test golf clubs, the set of test golf clubs delivered to the second location in response to the order. A monitoring system is included at the second location for measuring swing data from swinging of the set of test golf clubs and saving the swing data at the second computer. A communication system is included transmitting the swing data from the second computer to the first computer. A display system is included at the second computer for displaying the swing data that is analyzed to recommend the best golf club fit based on the swing data. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] For a better understanding of the present invention, reference is to be made to the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the precise arrangement shown in the drawings.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a flow chart showing the steps in the assessment using the specialized clubs that provide data that a computer software program uses to determine the proper club choice for the individual golfer.

[0018] FIG. 2 shows the selection of specialized clubs of the instant invention lined up in a row for use.

[0019] FIG. 3 is a closeup view of one of the club heads that has differing weights.

[0020] FIG. 4 shows the interface where an individual can swing the specialized clubs in a virtual setting where a computer collects the swing data to put into the algorithm that determines the proper club for the individual.

[0021] FIG. 5 is flow diagram for one embodiment of a remote golf club fitting system and method according to the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram for another embodiment of a remote golf club fitting system and method according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Turning to the drawings, the preferred embodiment is illustrated and described by reference characters that denote similar elements throughout the several views of the instant invention.

[0024] The preferred embodiment of the instant invention provides for a system and specialized devices to assess proper club choice for golfers

[0025] There are eight categories of golf club characteristics that are assessed using this system. Specialized clubs are built to isolate each of these categories, which the user uses to ascertain the proper club for the golfer. These categories can include: sole design; lie angle, i.e., the angle of the club head relative to the ground; swing weight; total weight; shaft kick point, i.e., the part of the shaft where the shaft experiences the greatest amount of bend when the tip is pulled down, also known as the flex point or bend point; the grip size; shaft flex; and the length of the club, including the shaft and the club head. It is understood that in other embodiments other characteristics can be assessed in a similar manner to the characteristics above.

[0026] To make the assessment, the golfer will hit three shots with each specialized club in a set which isolates the variables defined above. Data is then gathered from these shots which is recorded by specialized software, which in turn determines the proper club for the golfer based on the data gathered.

[0027] As shown in the flow chart 10, the first box 12 defines that the golfer is being assessed for the proper club choice. The second box 14 notes that the golfer then tests with clubs with differing sole design. Not noted in the flow chart, but important to mention, is that during each test, data is recorded on the performance of the golfer using the specialized set of clubs. It is also important to note that the order of testing can be arbitrary and can be conducted in any order. In other embodiments, the order of testing can prescribed. Next, the golfer tests with clubs with a differing lie angle as shown in box 16, which is the angle of the clubhead relative to the ground. Next, the golfer is tested with differing swing weights 18, after which data is collected of the golfer's performance. Next, the golfer tests with clubs with differing total weight 20. Data is recorded based on the golfer's performance with these specialized clubs.

[0028] Next, the golfer tests with specialized clubs with differing kick points 22. The kick point is the part of the shaft where the shaft experiences the greatest amount of bend when the tip is pulled down, also known as the flex point or bend point. Data is recorded based on the golfer's performance using these clubs with different kick points. Next, the golfer tests with clubs with differing grip size 24. Again, data is recorded.

[0029] After that, the golfer tests with clubs with different shaft flex after which the data is recorded. After that, the golfer tests with clubs with differing length 28, after which data is recorded. After all of the data is recorded 30, the data is entered into a software program which analyzes the results and recommends the best club choice 32 for the individual golfer.

[0030] FIG. 2 shows 8 sets of three specialized clubs that correspond to each of the seven variables, i.e., sole design 14, swing weight 18, lie angle 16, total weight 20, kick point 22, grip size 24, length 28 and shaft flex. Again, the order can be arbitrary or prescribed. Each of the 8 sets has three different clubs with different values for each variable, i.e., varying angles, weights, grip sizes, lengths, etc. The club sets are color coded with a ring 34 or other marker between the shaft 36 and the club head 38 to correspond to which variable is being tested. It is important to note that this marker can be identified in any number of ways and at any point on the golf club. For illustration purposes, the marker used is a color ring 34 and the marker point is between the clubhead 38 and the shaft 36 of the golf club. For example, the clubs with different sole design could be identified with a blue ring, the clubs with differing weights with a red ring, etc. The color choice is arbitrary, but the point is to distinguish which set is testing which variable.

[0031] FIG. 3 is a close-up view of a club head 38 that is used to 15 test the variable of differing weight. As shown, there are four slots 40 that identify and hold the amount of weight in the club head 38.

[0032] FIG. 4 is a front view of interface 42 where the individual swings the different club sets. The interface 42 simulates a golf range with a visual virtual image of a golf range. The golfer swings each differing specialized club in each variable category and hits a ball which hits the interface 42. A detector 44 is connected to the interface 42 that can measure the various aspects of the swing, such as speed, impact, angle, etc. After the golfer has tested several different values of each variable, the computer algorithm uses the data collected from the swinging through the interface 42 collected by the detector 44 to determine which clubs are right for that golfer at that stage of his or her performance level.

[0033] It is understood that then interface 42 shown in FIG. 4 is only one of the many interfaces that can be used to measure aspects of the golfer’s swing. These can generally comprise interfaces that are commercially available interfaces / simulators (such as TrackmanTM, ForesightTM, SkytrakTM and Full SwingTM simulators), some versions of which may or may not have visual imagery of a golf range. Some of these can instead report aspects of the golf on a display, such as a digital display.

[0034] It is understood that the different embodiments of methodsand systems according to the present invention for assessing proper club choice for a golfer can take place at a location where the golfer is present with a club selection professional, and a golf simulator is also present. This allows the golfer to swing the different sets of clubs as described above, under the direction of club selection professional, and the swing aspect data can be recorded at the location. The club selection professional can then assess the swing data from the different club sets, as well as input from the golfer as to feel and preferences, and can then select the club that most closely fits the golfer’s swing and will result in improved golfing performance for the golfer without changing the golfer’s swing. The selection of the best club can be made at the time of the club testing or the golf selection professional can analyze the data at a later date or time and can then provide the recommended club particulars to the golfer at a later date.

[0035] Different steps of the methods described herein and the different aspects of the systems described herein can be computer based and at least partially automated through the use of sensors, recording devices and computer software. In other embodiments, the method steps and systems aspects can utilize artificial intelligence (AI) to at least partially automate.

[0036] It is understood that the methods and systems according to the present invention can be used in arrangement where the golfer, club selection professional and swing monitor / simulator are not in the same location. In some embodiments, these are considered remote arrangements where the different individuals and swing monitors / simulators involved in the methods and systems according to the present invention can be far apart, and can be in different parts of the country or the world. In these embodiments, the sets of clubs for testing being assembled at a point of origin shipped to an individual at a remote location. The remote golfer can then systematically measure swing data using the clubs and can record the data. This data can then be sent / transmitted to the golf selection professional for analysis to select the most desirable club, and the golfer can return clubs by shipping back to the point of origin.

[0037] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram 50 showing one embodiment of a method and system for remote testing of clubs according to the present invention. In step 52 the clubs for testing are shipped to a remote golfer, and in some embodiments, these can comprise the 24 golf clubs having sets of three clubs to test different aspects of golfer’s swing as described above. It is understood that other systems and methods can use different numbers of testing clubs focusing on different characteristics.

[0038] In step 54, the golfer receives that shipped clubs at the remote location and tests the different sets in the same or similar manner as if he were at the location with the club selection professional. The golfer records swing data from each of the received clubs using any of the swing interfaces or monitors described above. In step 56, the golfer then returns the clubs that were tested, and the clubs are typically returned to the point of origin, but could also be shipped to other locations. In step 58, the swing data is transmitted to the club selection professional and is analyzed to determine the best club characteristics for the golfer.

[0039] It is understood that the above steps can be performed in many different ways and can use different processes or technologies to perform each of the steps.

[0040] FIG. 6 shows a flow diagram 60 for one embodiment of a method and system for remote testing of clubs that provides an example of more detailed steps for completing the steps in the method and system. The flow diagram 60 shows the process of sharing golf clubs and golf related materials, as well as information related to testing of the golf clubs, between the golfer and the home office where the testing clubs originate and the club selection professional can be located.

[0041] In step 62, clubs are ordered by a golfer seeking to use the methods or systems according to the present invention for testing to determine the best club for his / her swing. This ordering can be done in many different ways such as by email, text, phone call, etc., to the home office that provides the clubs for testing. In other embodiments the clubs can be ordered through an on-line website portal, such as a web-site portal provided by the home office. In some embodiments, the website portal can used to create a golfer profile that can include information such as age, height, weight, golf experience, scoring handicap and preferences for clubs. The testing clubs can be ordered by requesting shipment, inputting shipping location, and optionally, paying a shipping / testing fee.

[0042] In step 64, the home office can then package the sets of clubs for testing, and in some embodiments, this can include the 8 sets of 3 clubs used to isolate the best club for particular swing characteristics as described above. These can be packaged in many different ways, such as in hard plastic or metal case, or in a cardboard box, paper, or plastic wrap with shock absorbing materials to protect the clubs during shipment. In some embodiments, the home office can also send additional golf or testing related devices such as a swing monitor or simulator to be used with the testing of clubs. These additional devices can be shipped separately or in the same packaging with the clubs. The clubs (and additional devices) are then shipped to the ordering golfer at the address provided. Many different shipping processes can be used including, but not limited to, conventional shipping services can be used. The shipping packages can include devices to help the home office and ordering golfer track the location and progress of the shipped package, such commercially available Air Tag tracking devices.

[0043] In some embodiments, the clubs are typically all irons and of the same type. For example, in some embodiment all the test clubs could be seven irons, or all could also be any of the other typical irons from 3 iron to pitching wedge. It is understood, however, that the clubs may not all be the same type and other embodiments can include woods.

[0044] In step 66, the clubs (and additional devices) can be delivered to the address provided by the golfer and received by the golfer. In some embodiments, receipt can be confirmed by the shipping service using conventional delivery confirmation, or by the ordering golfer confirming receipt by email, text or phone to the home office, or by sending a message on the home office website portal mentioned above. The clubs and additional devices can be removed from the packaging and in some embodiments the packaging can be re-used to return the clubs and addition devices to the home office as discussed below. In other embodiments, the packaging can be discarded and new packaging used to return the clubs.

[0045] In step 68, the clubs are swing tested. In some embodiment, the clubs can be tested at a simulator (e.g. hitting bay) or swing monitor provided at the location where the clubs are received. This can be at the ordering golfer’s location or at a separate practice facility. The testing instructions can be provided with the shipped clubs, and can take the form of written instructions on paper, or as software on a standard memory device (e.g. memory stick) that can include instructions to be shown on a personal computer. In other embodiments the instructions can be included as audio recording or can be displayed on a cell phone. In other embodiments, the instructions can be provided on the home office website portal and accessed by the golfer by accessing the website portal.

[0046] Each of the clubs is tested pursuant to the instructions provided, and testing data points for each club can be recorded. This can include many different data points, some of which include ball distance, ball height, ball launch angle, ball spin rate, ball dispersion, club or ball speed, and location of ball strike on the club face. In some embodiments, a spray can be included with the shipped clubs that is sprayed on the face of each club prior to striking a ball, which the location on the face of the club revealed by missing spay where the ball comes in contact with the face. The golfer’s swing can also be recorded by photo or video for each test swing, which can help determine additional data points such as whether the swing is on plane and the angle of clubface when striking the ball. These data points are recorded. In some embodiments, step 70 can include the user inputting his subjective preferences as to feel and comfort for each club being tested. Other input can also be solicited from the golfer such as typical swing miss or fault (e.g. miss always high and right) or what he / she is looking to get out of new clubs (e.g. high spin or high launch angle).

[0047] In other embodiments, the club testing can be completed live and monitored in real time by the home office through video conference. The swing data can also be transmitted directly to the home office instead of being recorded first at the location of the golfer.

[0048] In step 70, the golfer can transmit the recorded swing data points (including swing video) to the home office, and this can be done using many different methods, including but not limited to, email, texting, transmittal on memory device (e.g. memory stick), etc. In some embodiments, the memory device can be sent back to the home office with the return of the clubs as discussed below. In still other embodiments the data can be uploaded to the home office using many different methods, with some having an data uploading portal on the home office website. Receipt of the swing data can then be confirmed by the home office.

[0049] In step 72, the golfer returns the test clubs (and additional devices) to the home office. This can be done using the packaging from shipping or by using new packaging, and can comprise all the materials and protective packaging as mentioned above. Devices can be included with the clubs when shipped such as zip ties to bind the golf clubs together. The golfer can alert the home office when the clubs are being returned and a tracking device such as Air Tag mentioned above can also be included to track the package during shipment.

[0050] In step 74, the home office receives and analyzes the swing data from the golfer to determine the best golf club with the characteristics best matching the golfer’s swing, to recommend to the golfer. This can be done automatically by an algorithm that analyzes the different data points provided, and based on the algorithm and different combinations of data points (including user preferences) the appropriate golf club can be recommended. This automated approach can rely on different software programs or can rely on Artificial Intelligence (AI) formulated to evaluate swing data points to recommend best clubs for a particular swing. In still other embodiments, the best club is selected by a club selection professional trained to analyze the data points and make recommendations for the best club. In these embodiments the club selection professional can focus on objective data points like dispersion, standard deviation, ball height, ball spin, etc., but can also take into account subjective information such as preference of the golfer or what feels good to the golfer. In most embodiments where golfers’ subjective preferences are considered, there will likely be at least some input from a club selection professional. However, with improvements in AI or other analysis software programs, the club selection can be made with only the algorithm.

[0051] In step 76, the home office communicates to the golfer the recommended golf club characteristics to best fit his / her swing. This can include further consultation with recommendations moving forward, and be done by phone, video conference, text email or through the home office website portal. The method and systems according to the present invention can include building a set of clubs for the golfer based on the club recommendations, and selling those clubs to the golfer. In still other embodiments, the golfer can use the recommended golf club characteristics for any golf club brand or manufacturer to build the recommended club set.

[0052] The invention illustratively disclosed herein suitably may be practiced in the absence of any element which is not specifically disclosed herein. The discussion included in this patent is intended to serve as a basic description. The reader should be aware that the specific discussion may not explicitly describe all embodiments possible and alternatives are implicit. Also, this discussion may not fully explain the generic nature of the invention and may not explicitly show how each feature or element can actually be representative or equivalent elements. Again, these are implicitly included in this disclosure. Where the invention is described in device-oriented terminology, each element of the device implicitly performs a function. It should also be understood that a variety of changes may be made without departing from the essence of the invention. Such changes are also implicitly included in the description. These changes still fall within the scope of this invention.

[0053] Further, each of the various elements of the invention and claims may also be achieved in a variety of manners. This disclosure should be understood to encompass each such variation, be it a variation of any apparatus embodiment, a method embodiment, or even merely a variation of any element of these. Particularly, it should be understood that as the disclosure relates to elements of the invention, the words for each element may be expressed by equivalent apparatus terms even if only the function or result is the same. Such equivalent, broader, or even more generic terms should be considered to be encompassed in the description of each element or action. Such terms can be substituted where desired to make explicit the implicitly broad coverage to which this invention is entitled. It should be understood that all actions may be expressed as a means for taking that action or as an element which causes that action. Similarly, each physical element disclosed should be understood to encompass a disclosure of the action which that physical element facilitates. Such changes and alternative terms are to be understood to be explicitly included in the description.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0023] Turning to the drawings, the preferred embodiment is illustrated and described by reference characters that denote similar elements throughout the several views of the instant invention.

[0024] The preferred embodiment of the instant invention provides for a system and specialized devices to assess proper club choice for golfers

[0025] There are eight categories of golf club characteristics that are assessed using this system. Specialized clubs are built to isolate each of these categories, which the user uses to ascertain the proper club for the golfer. These categories can include: sole design; lie angle, i.e., the angle of the club head relative to the ground; swing weight; total weight; shaft kick point, i.e., the part of the shaft where the shaft experiences the greatest amount of bend when the tip is pulled down, also known as the flex point or bend point; the grip size; shaft flex; and the length of the club, including the shaft and the club head. It is...

[0001] This application is a continuation of and claims priority of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 18 / 220,514 filed July 11, 2023, which claims priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 388,032, filed July 11, 2022, both entitled SYSTEM AND DEVICES TO ASSESS PROPER CLUB CHOICE FOR GOLFERS and both by Daniel Rogers, Chad Dietz, and Morgan Steven.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The field of this invention relates generally to the field of golf club fitting and instruction and more particularly toward a system that utilizes specialized golf equipment to fit clubs to an individual golfer.DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART

[0003] Golfing is a difficult yet very popular sport. Part of the difficulty in attaining skill in the game is making sure that the golfer is using the proper club for his or her frame and skill level.

[0004] There are many variables that affect club choice and accordingly a lot of time and money can be spent stabbing in the dark trying to find the proper club. Typically, when fitting a golfer, a large number of clubs are used for the determination which take up a lot of space and can be quite cumbersome.

[0005] Conventional fitting methods also rely on the customer coming to the location of the golf clubs and club selection professional, which is typically and brick and mortar golf shop or sporting goods store, or at golf course. There are many locations where it is not convenient to travel to these locations, and there is no system whereby the clubs for testing and fitting, and the actual fitting process can be brought to the location of the golfer instead of the golfer traveling to these locations. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] It is the object of the instant invention to provide a system with specialized assessment clubs to determine via a software algorithm based on data gathered through the specialized assessment with each of the specialized assessment clubs to determine the proper club to use for an individual golfer.

[0007] It is a further object of the instant invention to provide a system with specialized assessment clubs that is streamlined and simple 30 to use and that gives the individual golfer a satisfied experience in that the time taken to assess was exhaustive yet simple.

[0008] Some of the embodiments according to the present invention teach a system of assessing proper club choice for a golfer, comprising the steps of: collecting a plurality of specialized golf clubs, said specialized golf clubs being crafted to isolate a variety of variable golf club characteristics, said variable golf club characteristics being taken from the group comprising: sole design, lie angle, swing weight, total weigh, shaft kick point, grip size, shaft flex, club length; hitting a golf ball with each of the specialized golf clubs at least one time against an interface, said interface being configured to collect data associated with the impact of said golf ball against said interface; collecting said data through a data collector attached to said interface; entering said data in a computer software program which determines the appropriate golf club for said golfer based on said data collected.

[0009] These embodiments can be further modified by defining that said plurality of specialized golf clubs are identified with a marker to determine which of said variable golf club characteristics is being measured.

[0010] These embodiments can be further modified by defining that said marker is a color-coded ring attached to each of said plurality of specialized golf clubs.

[0011] These embodiments can be further modified by defining that said plurality of specialized golf clubs contains two or more different values for each of said variable golf club characteristics.

[0012] Embodiments of the present invention can also comprise systems and methos for remote fitting of golf clubs comprising testing of golf clubs to determine the best club fit for a particular golfer using swing data from swinging the golf clubs. An algorithm can be used to determine the recommended club based on the swing data, or the swing data can be received and analyzed by a club selection professional who determines the recommended club characteristics based on the swing data.

[0013] One embodiment of a method for remote fitting of golf clubs according to the present invention comprising assembling a set of test golf clubs at a first location, with the test golf clubs arranged to be swung by a golfer to determine the best golf club characteristics for the golfer’s swing.

[0014] The method further includes placing an order for delivery of the set of test golf clubs to a second location remote to the first location. The clubs in set of test clubs are swung at the second location and swing data is recorded from the swinging of the clubs. The method further includes transmitting the swing data to the first location where it can be analyzed to provide recommendations and the best golf club fit based on the swing data.

[0015] On embodiment of a system for remote fitting of golf clubs comprises a first computer and a set of test golf clubs at a first location. A second computer is included at a second location that is in communication with the first computer, wherein the second computer is capable of sending a message to the first computer ordering the set of test golf clubs, the set of test golf clubs delivered to the second location in response to the order. A monitoring system is included at the second location for measuring swing data from swinging of the set of test golf clubs and saving the swing data at the second computer. A communication system is included transmitting the swing data from the second computer to the first computer. A display system is included at the second computer for displaying the swing data that is analyzed to recommend the best golf club fit based on the swing data. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] For a better understanding of the present invention, reference is to be made to the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the precise arrangement shown in the drawings.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a flow chart showing the steps in the assessment using the specialized clubs that provide data that a computer software program uses to determine the proper club choice for the individual golfer.

[0018] FIG. 2 shows the selection of specialized clubs of the instant invention lined up in a row for use.

[0019] FIG. 3 is a closeup view of one of the club heads that has differing weights.

[0020] FIG. 4 shows the interface where an individual can swing the specialized clubs in a virtual setting where a computer collects the swing data to put into the algorithm that determines the proper club for the individual.

[0021] FIG. 5 is flow diagram for one embodiment of a remote golf club fitting system and method according to the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram for another embodiment of a remote golf club fitting system and method according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Turning to the drawings, the preferred embodiment is illustrated and described by reference characters that denote similar elements throughout the several views of the instant invention.

[0024] The preferred embodiment of the instant invention provides for a system and specialized devices to assess proper club choice for golfers

[0025] There are eight categories of golf club characteristics that are assessed using this system. Specialized clubs are built to isolate each of these categories, which the user uses to ascertain the proper club for the golfer. These categories can include: sole design; lie angle, i.e., the angle of the club head relative to the ground; swing weight; total weight; shaft kick point, i.e., the part of the shaft where the shaft experiences the greatest amount of bend when the tip is pulled down, also known as the flex point or bend point; the grip size; shaft flex; and the length of the club, including the shaft and the club head. It is understood that in other embodiments other characteristics can be assessed in a similar manner to the characteristics above.

[0026] To make the assessment, the golfer will hit three shots with each specialized club in a set which isolates the variables defined above. Data is then gathered from these shots which is recorded by specialized software, which in turn determines the proper club for the golfer based on the data gathered.

[0027] As shown in the flow chart 10, the first box 12 defines that the golfer is being assessed for the proper club choice. The second box 14 notes that the golfer then tests with clubs with differing sole design. Not noted in the flow chart, but important to mention, is that during each test, data is recorded on the performance of the golfer using the specialized set of clubs. It is also important to note that the order of testing can be arbitrary and can be conducted in any order. In other embodiments, the order of testing can prescribed. Next, the golfer tests with clubs with a differing lie angle as shown in box 16, which is the angle of the clubhead relative to the ground. Next, the golfer is tested with differing swing weights 18, after which data is collected of the golfer's performance. Next, the golfer tests with clubs with differing total weight 20. Data is recorded based on the golfer's performance with these specialized clubs.

[0028] Next, the golfer tests with specialized clubs with differing kick points 22. The kick point is the part of the shaft where the shaft experiences the greatest amount of bend when the tip is pulled down, also known as the flex point or bend point. Data is recorded based on the golfer's performance using these clubs with different kick points. Next, the golfer tests with clubs with differing grip size 24. Again, data is recorded.

[0029] After that, the golfer tests with clubs with different shaft flex after which the data is recorded. After that, the golfer tests with clubs with differing length 28, after which data is recorded. After all of the data is recorded 30, the data is entered into a software program which analyzes the results and recommends the best club choice 32 for the individual golfer.

[0030] FIG. 2 shows 8 sets of three specialized clubs that correspond to each of the seven variables, i.e., sole design 14, swing weight 18, lie angle 16, total weight 20, kick point 22, grip size 24, length 28 and shaft flex. Again, the order can be arbitrary or prescribed. Each of the 8 sets has three different clubs with different values for each variable, i.e., varying angles, weights, grip sizes, lengths, etc. The club sets are color coded with a ring 34 or other marker between the shaft 36 and the club head 38 to correspond to which variable is being tested. It is important to note that this marker can be identified in any number of ways and at any point on the golf club. For illustration purposes, the marker used is a color ring 34 and the marker point is between the clubhead 38 and the shaft 36 of the golf club. For example, the clubs with different sole design could be identified with a blue ring, the clubs with differing weights with a red ring, etc. The color choice is arbitrary, but the point is to distinguish which set is testing which variable.

[0031] FIG. 3 is a close-up view of a club head 38 that is used to 15 test the variable of differing weight. As shown, there are four slots 40 that identify and hold the amount of weight in the club head 38.

[0032] FIG. 4 is a front view of interface 42 where the individual swings the different club sets. The interface 42 simulates a golf range with a visual virtual image of a golf range. The golfer swings each differing specialized club in each variable category and hits a ball which hits the interface 42. A detector 44 is connected to the interface 42 that can measure the various aspects of the swing, such as speed, impact, angle, etc. After the golfer has tested several different values of each variable, the computer algorithm uses the data collected from the swinging through the interface 42 collected by the detector 44 to determine which clubs are right for that golfer at that stage of his or her performance level.

[0033] It is understood that then interface 42 shown in FIG. 4 is only one of the many interfaces that can be used to measure aspects of the golfer’s swing. These can generally comprise interfaces that are commercially available interfaces / simulators (such as TrackmanTM, ForesightTM, SkytrakTM and Full SwingTM simulators), some versions of which may or may not have visual imagery of a golf range. Some of these can instead report aspects of the golf on a display, such as a digital display.

[0034] It is understood that the different embodiments of methodsand systems according to the present invention for assessing proper club choice for a golfer can take place at a location where the golfer is present with a club selection professional, and a golf simulator is also present. This allows the golfer to swing the different sets of clubs as described above, under the direction of club selection professional, and the swing aspect data can be recorded at the location. The club selection professional can then assess the swing data from the different club sets, as well as input from the golfer as to feel and preferences, and can then select the club that most closely fits the golfer’s swing and will result in improved golfing performance for the golfer without changing the golfer’s swing. The selection of the best club can be made at the time of the club testing or the golf selection professional can analyze the data at a later date or time and can then provide the recommended club particulars to the golfer at a later date.

[0035] Different steps of the methods described herein and the different aspects of the systems described herein can be computer based and at least partially automated through the use of sensors, recording devices and computer software. In other embodiments, the method steps and systems aspects can utilize artificial intelligence (AI) to at least partially automate.

[0036] It is understood that the methods and systems according to the present invention can be used in arrangement where the golfer, club selection professional and swing monitor / simulator are not in the same location. In some embodiments, these are considered remote arrangements where the different individuals and swing monitors / simulators involved in the methods and systems according to the present invention can be far apart, and can be in different parts of the country or the world. In these embodiments, the sets of clubs for testing being assembled at a point of origin shipped to an individual at a remote location. The remote golfer can then systematically measure swing data using the clubs and can record the data. This data can then be sent / transmitted to the golf selection professional for analysis to select the most desirable club, and the golfer can return clubs by shipping back to the point of origin.

[0037] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram 50 showing one embodiment of a method and system for remote testing of clubs according to the present invention. In step 52 the clubs for testing are shipped to a remote golfer, and in some embodiments, these can comprise the 24 golf clubs having sets of three clubs to test different aspects of golfer’s swing as described above. It is understood that other systems and methods can use different numbers of testing clubs focusing on different characteristics.

[0038] In step 54, the golfer receives that shipped clubs at the remote location and tests the different sets in the same or similar manner as if he were at the location with the club selection professional. The golfer records swing data from each of the received clubs using any of the swing interfaces or monitors described above. In step 56, the golfer then returns the clubs that were tested, and the clubs are typically returned to the point of origin, but could also be shipped to other locations. In step 58, the swing data is transmitted to the club selection professional and is analyzed to determine the best club characteristics for the golfer.

[0039] It is understood that the above steps can be performed in many different ways and can use different processes or technologies to perform each of the steps.

[0040] FIG. 6 shows a flow diagram 60 for one embodiment of a method and system for remote testing of clubs that provides an example of more detailed steps for completing the steps in the method and system. The flow diagram 60 shows the process of sharing golf clubs and golf related materials, as well as information related to testing of the golf clubs, between the golfer and the home office where the testing clubs originate and the club selection professional can be located.

[0041] In step 62, clubs are ordered by a golfer seeking to use the methods or systems according to the present invention for testing to determine the best club for his / her swing. This ordering can be done in many different ways such as by email, text, phone call, etc., to the home office that provides the clubs for testing. In other embodiments the clubs can be ordered through an on-line website portal, such as a web-site portal provided by the home office. In some embodiments, the website portal can used to create a golfer profile that can include information such as age, height, weight, golf experience, scoring handicap and preferences for clubs. The testing clubs can be ordered by requesting shipment, inputting shipping location, and optionally, paying a shipping / testing fee.

[0042] In step 64, the home office can then package the sets of clubs for testing, and in some embodiments, this can include the 8 sets of 3 clubs used to isolate the best club for particular swing characteristics as described above. These can be packaged in many different ways, such as in hard plastic or metal case, or in a cardboard box, paper, or plastic wrap with shock absorbing materials to protect the clubs during shipment. In some embodiments, the home office can also send additional golf or testing related devices such as a swing monitor or simulator to be used with the testing of clubs. These additional devices can be shipped separately or in the same packaging with the clubs. The clubs (and additional devices) are then shipped to the ordering golfer at the address provided. Many different shipping processes can be used including, but not limited to, conventional shipping services can be used. The shipping packages can include devices to help the home office and ordering golfer track the location and progress of the shipped package, such commercially available Air Tag tracking devices.

[0043] In some embodiments, the clubs are typically all irons and of the same type. For example, in some embodiment all the test clubs could be seven irons, or all could also be any of the other typical irons from 3 iron to pitching wedge. It is understood, however, that the clubs may not all be the same type and other embodiments can include woods.

[0044] In step 66, the clubs (and additional devices) can be delivered to the address provided by the golfer and received by the golfer. In some embodiments, receipt can be confirmed by the shipping service using conventional delivery confirmation, or by the ordering golfer confirming receipt by email, text or phone to the home office, or by sending a message on the home office website portal mentioned above. The clubs and additional devices can be removed from the packaging and in some embodiments the packaging can be re-used to return the clubs and addition devices to the home office as discussed below. In other embodiments, the packaging can be discarded and new packaging used to return the clubs.

[0045] In step 68, the clubs are swing tested. In some embodiment, the clubs can be tested at a simulator (e.g. hitting bay) or swing monitor provided at the location where the clubs are received. This can be at the ordering golfer’s location or at a separate practice facility. The testing instructions can be provided with the shipped clubs, and can take the form of written instructions on paper, or as software on a standard memory device (e.g. memory stick) that can include instructions to be shown on a personal computer. In other embodiments the instructions can be included as audio recording or can be displayed on a cell phone. In other embodiments, the instructions can be provided on the home office website portal and accessed by the golfer by accessing the website portal.

[0046] Each of the clubs is tested pursuant to the instructions provided, and testing data points for each club can be recorded. This can include many different data points, some of which include ball distance, ball height, ball launch angle, ball spin rate, ball dispersion, club or ball speed, and location of ball strike on the club face. In some embodiments, a spray can be included with the shipped clubs that is sprayed on the face of each club prior to striking a ball, which the location on the face of the club revealed by missing spay where the ball comes in contact with the face. The golfer’s swing can also be recorded by photo or video for each test swing, which can help determine additional data points such as whether the swing is on plane and the angle of clubface when striking the ball. These data points are recorded. In some embodiments, step 70 can include the user inputting his subjective preferences as to feel and comfort for each club being tested. Other input can also be solicited from the golfer such as typical swing miss or fault (e.g. miss always high and right) or what he / she is looking to get out of new clubs (e.g. high spin or high launch angle).

[0047] In other embodiments, the club testing can be completed live and monitored in real time by the home office through video conference. The swing data can also be transmitted directly to the home office instead of being recorded first at the location of the golfer.

[0048] In step 70, the golfer can transmit the recorded swing data points (including swing video) to the home office, and this can be done using many different methods, including but not limited to, email, texting, transmittal on memory device (e.g. memory stick), etc. In some embodiments, the memory device can be sent back to the home office with the return of the clubs as discussed below. In still other embodiments the data can be uploaded to the home office using many different methods, with some having an data uploading portal on the home office website. Receipt of the swing data can then be confirmed by the home office.

[0049] In step 72, the golfer returns the test clubs (and additional devices) to the home office. This can be done using the packaging from shipping or by using new packaging, and can comprise all the materials and protective packaging as mentioned above. Devices can be included with the clubs when shipped such as zip ties to bind the golf clubs together. The golfer can alert the home office when the clubs are being returned and a tracking device such as Air Tag mentioned above can also be included to track the package during shipment.

[0050] In step 74, the home office receives and analyzes the swing data from the golfer to determine the best golf club with the characteristics best matching the golfer’s swing, to recommend to the golfer. This can be done automatically by an algorithm that analyzes the different data points provided, and based on the algorithm and different combinations of data points (including user preferences) the appropriate golf club can be recommended. This automated approach can rely on different software programs or can rely on Artificial Intelligence (AI) formulated to evaluate swing data points to recommend best clubs for a particular swing. In still other embodiments, the best club is selected by a club selection professional trained to analyze the data points and make recommendations for the best club. In these embodiments the club selection professional can focus on objective data points like dispersion, standard deviation, ball height, ball spin, etc., but can also take into account subjective information such as preference of the golfer or what feels good to the golfer. In most embodiments where golfers’ subjective preferences are considered, there will likely be at least some input from a club selection professional. However, with improvements in AI or other analysis software programs, the club selection can be made with only the algorithm.

[0051] In step 76, the home office communicates to the golfer the recommended golf club characteristics to best fit his / her swing. This can include further consultation with recommendations moving forward, and be done by phone, video conference, text email or through the home office website portal. The method and systems according to the present invention can include building a set of clubs for the golfer based on the club recommendations, and selling those clubs to the golfer. In still other embodiments, the golfer can use the recommended golf club characteristics for any golf club brand or manufacturer to build the recommended club set.

[0052] The invention illustratively disclosed herein suitably may be practiced in the absence of any element which is not specifically disclosed herein. The discussion included in this patent is intended to serve as a basic description. The reader should be aware that the specific discussion may not explicitly describe all embodiments possible and alternatives are implicit. Also, this discussion may not fully explain the generic nature of the invention and may not explicitly show how each feature or element can actually be representative or equivalent elements. Again, these are implicitly included in this disclosure. Where the invention is described in device-oriented terminology, each element of the device implicitly performs a function. It should also be understood that a variety of changes may be made without departing from the essence of the invention. Such changes are also implicitly included in the description. These changes still fall within the scope of this invention.

[0053] Further, each of the various elements of the invention and claims may also be achieved in a variety of manners. This disclosure should be understood to encompass each such variation, be it a variation of any apparatus embodiment, a method embodiment, or even merely a variation of any element of these. Particularly, it should be understood that as the disclosure relates to elements of the invention, the words for each element may be expressed by equivalent apparatus terms even if only the function or result is the same. Such equivalent, broader, or even more generic terms should be considered to be encompassed in the description of each element or action. Such terms can be substituted where desired to make explicit the implicitly broad coverage to which this invention is entitled. It should be understood that all actions may be expressed as a means for taking that action or as an element which causes that action. Similarly, each physical element disclosed should be understood to encompass a disclosure of the action which that physical element facilitates. Such changes and alternative terms are to be understood to be explicitly included in the description.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0023] Turning to the drawings, the preferred embodiment is illustrated and described by reference characters that denote similar elements throughout the several views of the instant invention.

[0024] The preferred embodiment of the instant invention provides for a system and specialized devices to assess proper club choice for golfers

[0025] There are eight categories of golf club characteristics that are assessed using this system. Specialized clubs are built to isolate each of these categories, which the user uses to ascertain the proper club for the golfer. These categories can include: sole design; lie angle, i.e., the angle of the club head relative to the ground; swing weight; total weight; shaft kick point, i.e., the part of the shaft where the shaft experiences the greatest amount of bend when the tip is pulled down, also known as the flex point or bend point; the grip size; shaft flex; and the length of the club, including the shaft and the club head. It is...

Claims

1. A method for remote fitting of golf clubs, comprising:assembling a set of test golf clubs at a first location, said test golf clubs arranged to be swung by a golfer to determine the best golf club characteristics for said golfer’s swing;placing an order for delivery of said set of clubs to a second location remote to said first location;swinging clubs in said set of test clubs at said second location and recording swing data from said swinging of clubs in said set of test clubs;transmitting said swing data to said first location; andanalyzing said swing data and providing recommendations of said best golf club characteristics based on said swing data.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein said step of swinging clubs includes hitting golf balls.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein said step of analyzing said swing data comprises analysis by a computer based algorithm.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein said step of analyzing said swing data comprising analysis by a club selection professional.

5. The method of claim 1, where said transmitting of said swing data comprises uploading said swing data from a computer at said second location to a computer at said first location.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein said set of test golf clubs comprises subsets of test golf clubs, wherein each subset test a respective golf club characteristic.

7. The method of claim 2, wherein said swing data includes ball flight characteristics recorded from said hitting of golf balls.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein said swing data comprises golfer club preferences.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein said swing data comprises photos of video of said swinging.

10. A system for remote fitting of golf clubs, comprising:a first computer and a set of test golf clubs at a first location;a second computer at a second location that is in communication with said first computer, wherein said second computer is capable of sending a message to said first computer ordering said set of test golf clubs, said set of test golf clubs delivered to said second location in response to said order;a monitoring system at said second location for measuring swing data from swinging of said set of test golf clubs and saving said swing data at said second computer; a communication system for transmitting said swing data from said second computer to said first computer; anda display system at said second computer for displaying said swing data that is analyzed to recommend the best golf club fit based on said swing data.

11. The system of claim 10, further comprising a website on said second computer that is accessible by communication from said first computer.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein said ordering is completed through said website.

13. The system of claim 11, wherein said website includes instructions for said measuring of swing data, said instruction viewable at said first computer.

14. The system of claim 11, wherein said communication system comprises a system for uploading data from said first computer to said second computer through said website.

15. The system of claim 10, wherein said swing data includes data from hitting golf balls.

16. The system of claim 10, wherein said analysis of said swing data comprises analysis by a computer-based algorithm.

17. The system of claim 1, wherein analysis of said swing data comprising analysis by a club selection professional.

18. The method of claim 1, wherein said set of test golf clubs comprises subsets of test golf clubs, wherein each subset tests a respective golf club characteristic.

19. A method for remote fitting of golf clubs, comprising:assembling a set of test golf clubs at a first location; placing an order for delivery of said set of clubs to a second location remote to said first location;delivering said test golf clubs from said first location to said second location; swinging clubs in said set of test clubs at said second location monitoring swing data from said swinging of clubs in said set of test clubs;saving said swing data at said second location; transmitting said swing data from said second location to said first location; analyzing said swing data and providing recommendations based on said swing data; and returning said set of test golf clubs to said first location.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein said set of test golf clubs comprises subsets of test golf clubs, wherein each subset tests a respective golf club characteristic.

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