Expert Green Reading Technique Using Plumb Line

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current green reading techniques in golf are more art than science, leading to inaccurate readings and increased scores, as exemplified by instances where golfers misjudge the break of a putt due to the unique contours of each golf course.

Innovation Solution

A method involving a specific stance and use of a plumb determining device, such as a balanced putter, to accurately assess the slope and break of the green by standing equidistantly or adjacent to the intended putting path, allowing for precise evaluation of the green contour and calibration for various course conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional green reading techniques are used, then the golfer can attempt putts, but the reading accuracy is poor leading to missed putts and increased scores

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegreen reading accuracyVSAvoidputt success rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary tool (such as a laser device, alignment tool, or structured visual aid) that mediates between the golfer and the green surface. This intermediary provides objective reference lines, slope indicators, or break visualization that enhances the golfer's ability to read the green accurately, thereby improving both measurement precision and putt success rate without requiring the golfer to rely solely on subjective visual estimation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical/visual estimation method of green reading with a more precise system involving technological aids (such as laser levels, digital inclinometers, or computer-based green mapping systems). This substitution transforms the subjective art of green reading into an objective measurement process, significantly improving reading accuracy and subsequent putt reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Loss of information

If the golfer studies the contour of the green extensively, then more information is gathered, but time is lost and confidence may decrease due to over-analysis

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegreen contour informationVSAvoidtime spent reading green
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-mapping green contours, slopes, and break patterns before the actual putting situation arises. This could involve pre-round analysis using technology tools, creating mental models of common green types, or having course information readily available. By preparing this information in advance, the golfer can quickly retrieve and apply it during play without spending excessive time analyzing each green from scratch, thus reducing time loss while maintaining comprehensive information gathering

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables the golfer to skip through the green reading process more efficiently by using tools or methods that provide immediate visual or numerical feedback about green contours and break. Instead of methodically studying every aspect of the green contour, the golfer can quickly obtain the critical information needed (such as break direction and magnitude) and move on to execution, thereby reducing the time spent on green reading while still gathering sufficient information for accurate putts

Inventive Principle:
Principle #21Skipping (Rushing through)

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

This method enables golfers to make confident and accurate green readings, reducing the number of strokes and enhancing the overall golfing experience by improving putting accuracy.

Implementation Method 1

holding the putter to determine a true vertical axis

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravitation: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentUS8696496B2Expert greenreading techniques
Publication Date: 2014.04.15 WALTERS ANDREW J
  • US8696496B2 patent drawing
  • US8696496B2 patent drawing
  • US8696496B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In order to reduce or eliminate bad green reads, the inventor has devised expert green reading techniques that allow a golfer to accurately and quickly read greens, thereby reducing scores and increasing enjoyment for the golfer. Rather than making a green read while being positioned behind the ball with respect to the cup as in conventional green reading techniques, in the disclosed expert green reading techniques a golfer takes a specific, precise, and consistent stance on or adjacent to a path between the ball and the cup.