Embedded Golf Club Head Tracking Markers for USGA Compliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tracking markers for golf club heads are imprecise, time-consuming to apply, leave adhesive residue, and violate USGA rules, necessitating manual removal before play, increasing costs and risks of disqualification.
Innovation Solution
A golf club head with permanently embedded tracking markers featuring a retroreflective surface, integrated between layers, allowing accurate detection by launch monitors without manual application and ensuring USGA compliance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional tracking markers are manually adhered to the face of a golf club head, then tracking accuracy can be achieved, but the process is time-consuming and requires removal of adhesive residue
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking markers are pre-integrated into the golf club head during manufacturing, eliminating the need for manual application and removal. The markers are embedded within the club head structure before the face is finished, so they are already in position when the club is ready for use.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking markers are merged with the golf club head structure itself, becoming an integral part of the club rather than a separate component. This integration eliminates the need for separate application and removal steps while maintaining tracking functionality.
2Ease of operation
If conventional tracking markers are manually placed on a finished golf club head, then tracking functionality is achieved, but manufacturing precision is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking markers are positioned with high precision during the manufacturing process using automated placement systems. This preliminary positioning ensures exact alignment with the launch monitor's expected locations, achieving manufacturing precision that cannot be obtained through manual placement.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical placement of markers is replaced with automated manufacturing processes that can position markers with sub-millimeter accuracy. This substitution of manual operation with automated systems resolves the contradiction between ease of placement and positioning precision.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If tracking markers are placed on the outside surface of the strike face, then tracking detection is enabled, but the golf club head becomes non-conforming under USGA rules
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking markers are nested within the golf club head structure, embedded between the face and the underlying layers. This nesting allows the markers to be detectable by launch monitors through the face material while remaining hidden from visual inspection, thus maintaining USGA conformity.
Solution Approach 2:
The face material acts as an intermediary layer that allows launch monitor detection of the embedded markers while preventing visual detection by players and officials. This intermediary structure enables tracking functionality without compromising regulatory compliance.
4Measurement precision
If conventional tracking markers are used temporarily during launch monitor sessions, then accurate detection is achieved, but additional costs and burden are incurred for separate manufacturing, purchase, and storage
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking markers are combined with the golf club head into a single integrated product. This merging eliminates the need for separate manufacturing, purchasing, and storage of markers, as they become an inherent part of the club head structure during the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The golf club head is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides the primary golf playing function while also incorporating embedded tracking markers for launch monitor detection. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate tracking marker components and their associated logistics.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides accurate, efficient, and cost-effective detection of head presentation parameters, maintaining USGA conformity and reducing the risk of disqualification.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one tracking marker comprises a retroreflective surface that is more retroreflective than the strike face
Data Source
AI summary
A golf club head comprises a forward portion, comprising a strike face, and at least one tracking marker, configured to be tracked by a launch monitor and permanently embedded in the forward portion. The at least one tracking marker comprises a retroreflective surface that is more retroreflective than the strike face.