Golf Ball Placement Detection Using Image Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current golf ball launch monitors require manual setup and are prone to false triggers due to external stimuli and variations in ball-club contact, necessitating trial and error for proper positioning, which can lead to unreliable measurement of flight parameters.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for detecting the placement of a golf ball using image analysis to determine if an object is a golf ball based on predefined attributes like size, dimple pattern, and position, with adjustable exposure and illumination to ensure accurate detection, and providing directional alerts for proper placement, allowing for automated setup and reliable measurement of flight parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual setup and positioning is used for the launch monitor, then the device can be configured to measure flight parameters, but false triggers occur due to external stimuli and variations in ball-club contact
Solution Approach 1:
The launch monitor automatically detects the golf ball's presence, position, and readiness without requiring manual configuration. The system self-calibrates by analyzing images of the scan zone to determine if the ball is properly positioned, eliminating the need for manual setup and reducing false triggers caused by improper positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning and setup with an automated optical detection system. The image sensor and algorithmic analysis substitute for manual observation and adjustment, automatically determining ball placement and readiness based on visual analysis of the scan zone.
2Measurement precision
If trial and error positioning is used to achieve proper ball placement, then the launch monitor can capture accurate flight data, but time is lost and false triggers increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection and analysis of the golf ball's position before the actual measurement begins. By analyzing the scan zone image in advance to determine ball placement and readiness, the system prepares the optimal measurement parameters beforehand, eliminating the need for trial-and-error adjustments during the measurement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The launch monitor provides real-time feedback by analyzing the scan zone image to determine ball placement quality. This feedback mechanism allows the system to automatically adjust or confirm positioning, ensuring measurement precision without requiring multiple trial attempts that would consume time.
3Device complexity
If external stimuli and variations in ball-club contact are not accounted for, then the launch monitor setup is simpler, but false triggers occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts measurement parameters based on the analyzed ball placement and detected conditions. By changing parameters such as exposure settings, illumination intensity, and detection thresholds based on the scan zone analysis, the system maintains high trigger accuracy without requiring complex manual configuration for each scenario.
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
Enables quick and accurate detection of a golf ball, reducing false triggers and setup errors, allowing for immediate and reliable measurement of flight parameters such as speed, direction, and spin, providing valuable feedback to golfers without requiring manual configuration or special equipment.
Implementation Method 1
capturing an image of a scan zone... the imager's sensor directed toward the ball or tee
Data Source
AI summary
A novel method and apparatus for detecting the placement of a golf ball for a launch monitor is disclosed. The method comprises capturing an image of a scan zone that is adjacent to the launch monitor and in the field of view of the launch monitor's image sensor, analyzing the scan zone image for the placement of an object, and determining if the object is likely the golf ball. An apparatus is also disclosed that implements the golf ball detection method.