Golf Ball RFID Identification Via Helical Track Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing golf ball identification systems at driving ranges are inefficient in accurately and reliably identifying golf balls with RFID tags, particularly in dynamic environments with varying conditions and debris, leading to potential interference and reduced accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A golf ball identification apparatus comprising a housing with a helical track, cover, and an antenna configured to detect golf balls with wireless transmitters, integrated with a target collection system that includes netting and pneumatic tubes for efficient ball collection and RFID reading, utilizing multiple antennas and RFID readers to enhance reading accuracy and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional RFID reading systems are used in golf driving ranges, then the system structure is simple, but the identification accuracy is reduced due to interference from debris and varying environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the RFID detection function into multiple independent antennas arranged in an array, each capable of individual signal processing. This segmentation allows the system to handle interference from debris and environmental variations more effectively by processing signals from multiple sources, thereby improving identification accuracy without requiring a completely complex new system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple antennas and RFID readers into a unified detection system that works together to identify golf balls. By merging multiple detection elements into a single coordinated system, the apparatus achieves higher identification accuracy through signal aggregation and cross-validation, while maintaining manageable system complexity through integrated control.
2Reliability
If multiple antennas and RFID readers are used to enhance reading accuracy, then the identification reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multiple antennas and RFID readers are designed to perform multiple functions: primary ball identification, interference detection, signal validation, and environmental adaptation. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve higher reading accuracy and reliability while justifying the increased complexity through versatile operational capabilities that address various detection scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where signals from multiple antennas and readers are continuously monitored and processed. The system uses feedback from signal strength, phase, and quality metrics to adjust detection parameters and validate identifications, thereby improving reliability while managing complexity through intelligent signal processing rather than purely hardware-based solutions.
3Measurement precision
If the antenna is positioned at the bottom of the housing, then the golf ball detection is improved as balls pass through the helical track, but the system becomes more complex compared to simple top-mounted antennas
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a helical track with curved geometry that guides golf balls through the detection zone. The curved path ensures balls pass close to the bottom-mounted antenna, improving detection accuracy. The helical structure achieves this positioning improvement while maintaining relatively simple construction using standard curved profile extrusions or formed components.
Solution Approach 2:
The bottom-mounted antenna is integrated within the housing structure, with the helical track nested around or above it. This nesting arrangement allows the antenna to be positioned optimally for ball detection while keeping the overall housing compact and structurally simple, avoiding the need for separate complex mounting mechanisms.
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
The system provides efficient and accurate identification of golf balls with RFID tags, even in challenging conditions, ensuring reliable data transmission to the facility's computer system for scoring and game management, while minimizing interference and improving player experience.
Implementation Method 1
The antenna is configured to detect a golf ball comprising a wireless transmitter
Data Source
AI summary
A golf ball identification apparatus and system for is disclosed herein. The golf ball identification apparatus includes a housing, a cover, a helical track within the housing, and an antenna. The antenna is positioned at a bottom of the housing and is configured to identify a golf ball that has a wireless identification device.