Golf Ball Fitting System Using Swing Flight Correlation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current golf ball fitting methods rely on subjective question-and-answer processes or measurements with assumptions, lacking objective criteria and requiring expertise, and struggle to efficiently gather and present relevant information in a short time.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using the flight pattern of a golf ball hit by a golfer to determine swing parameters, correlating grid positions with flight characteristics to estimate swing profiles, and recommending golf balls based on objective criteria, eliminating the need for deep knowledge or experience in the testing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a purely subjective question and answer process is used for golf ball fitting, then the process is simple and quick, but the accuracy and objectivity of the recommendations deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the subjective human judgment process with an automated computer-based system that uses objective measurements from launch monitors and video analysis. The system substitutes mechanical/optical measurement devices for human expertise, automatically processing swing data and ball flight characteristics to generate ball recommendations without requiring tester knowledge or experience.
2Measurement precision
If launch monitors and video devices are used to measure swing parameters, then the objectivity and precision improve, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple measurement functions into a single computer-based system that can process data from various sources including launch monitors, video devices, and grid position tracking. The system performs multiple functions: capturing swing parameters, analyzing ball flight, determining grid positions, and generating recommendations, thereby reducing the need for separate specialized equipment for each measurement task.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a computer-based processing system as an intermediary that consolidates data from multiple measurement devices. Rather than requiring direct human interpretation of complex measurements from multiple devices, the computer system acts as an intermediary that automatically processes and integrates data from launch monitors, video analysis, and grid positioning systems into unified swing profile assessments.
3Measurement precision
If a wide range of parameters and inputs are gathered for ball fitting, then the comprehensiveness and accuracy improve, but the time required and golfer inconvenience increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous automated data collection and processing throughout the fitting session. The system continuously captures swing parameters, ball flight data, and grid positions without interruption, processing measurements in real-time rather than requiring separate analysis steps. This continuous automated process allows comprehensive data gathering to occur naturally during the golfer's normal swing practice, minimizing additional time requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary automated processing of measurement data during the fitting session itself, rather than requiring post-session analysis. The computer system immediately processes swing parameters and ball flight characteristics as they are collected, generating preliminary swing profiles and ball recommendations during the session, thereby eliminating time-consuming post-session analysis steps.
4Measurement precision
If expert knowledge and subjective judgment are required to interpret measurements, then the quality of recommendations may improve, but the ease of operation and accessibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service automated system where the computer program independently performs all analysis and recommendation functions without requiring human expertise. The system automatically processes swing measurements, determines swing profiles, correlates data with ball specifications, and generates recommendations autonomously. This eliminates the need for testers to possess specialized knowledge of swing mechanics or ball construction, making the fitting process accessible to anyone with basic operational skills.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides golf ball recommendations correlating to a golfer's swing parameters determined by comparing the flight characteristics of a golf ball driven by the golfer with a database of flight characteristics of golf balls associated with particular swing parameters. The swing parameters in the database may be correlated with golf ball flight characteristics determined using empirical tests.