Universal Golf Club Fitting Mat and Lie Angle Protractor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for custom fitting golf clubs and similar game implements are impractical, requiring physical visits to pro shops, costly inventory, and specific models, limiting adaptability and convenience for golfers and players.
Innovation Solution
A method allowing golfers to use their existing clubs for fitting, utilizing a universal setup mat and lie angle protractor to determine lie angle and playing length, enabling self-fitting at home and adaptable for distribution via internet or mail, using a conversion angle for different club models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional custom fitting methods are used at pro shops or retail stores, then fitting precision can be maintained, but device complexity and cost increase due to requiring extensive inventory of every club model
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal fitting system using a standardized mat and protractor that can measure any club model regardless of manufacturer or design. The fitting tools are model-agnostic, allowing one set of tools to serve all club types, eliminating the need for extensive model-specific inventory.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses photographic images of clubs positioned on the mat instead of requiring physical club inventories. The fitting process captures measurements from images, creating a digital record that can be analyzed without needing the actual physical clubs present during the fitting.
2Measurement precision
If traditional custom fitting methods are used at pro shops or retail stores, then fitting can be performed, but loss of time increases due to requiring travel and scheduled appointments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables golfers to perform their own club fittings at home using the provided mat, protractor, and imaging system. The golfer positions their own clubs, captures images, and obtains measurements without requiring a professional fitter's time, eliminating travel and appointment scheduling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent provides golfers with pre-packaged fitting kits containing the mat, protractor, and instructions before they begin the fitting process. This preliminary preparation allows the fitting to occur immediately at home without needing to schedule an appointment or travel to a facility.
3Measurement precision
If traditional custom fitting methods are used, then fitting can be performed, but loss of substance increases due to requiring physical presence and travel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables golfers to perform their own club fittings at home using the provided mat, protractor, and imaging system. The golfer positions their own clubs, captures images, and obtains measurements without requiring a professional fitter's time, eliminating travel and appointment scheduling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces digital imaging and communication technology as an intermediary between the golfer and the club manufacturer. Measurements are captured via camera or smartphone and transmitted electronically, replacing the need for physical travel and in-person consultations.
4Measurement precision
If model-specific fitting is used, then fitting accuracy for that model is improved, but adaptability decreases because fitting numbers cannot be applied to different club models
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal fitting system using a standardized mat and protractor that can measure any club model regardless of manufacturer or design. The fitting tools are model-agnostic, allowing one set of measurements to be applied across different club models through the conversion angle calculation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter transformation to convert measurements from one club model to another by calculating the difference in lie angles (conversion angle). This allows fitting data obtained from one model to be mathematically adjusted and applied to different models, maintaining accuracy across variations.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of custom fitting a golf club or like implements having a shaft and a club head at a lower end thereof. The method utilizes the centerline of the shaft to determine the proper lie angle and true playing length for the shaft. A pointing device is attached to the shaft such that a projected point thereof is aligned with the centerline of the shaft to extend the centerline to the sole of the club head. The club head is placed on a universal setup mat with the club face aligned with the baseline thereof and the projected point on a target line where the sweet spot of the club head should hit a ball. A lie angle protractor on the mat is folded upward so the lie angle can be read from the protractor. The method also determines the proper grip size for the handle of the shaft.