Golf Club Head Sensor System for Swing Parameter Analysis
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current golf swing analysis methods lack the ability to provide quantitative, real-time data on swing parameters without requiring static leveling and knowledge of input forces and torques, limiting their effectiveness in improving golfer performance.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an inertial measurement unit (IMU) with accelerometers and gyroscopes, processed by a computing device using unknown input observer methods to construct motion equations that compensate for gyroscope bias and saturation, allowing for the calculation of golf club position and swing parameters during motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional qualitative evaluation methods are used, then simplicity and ease of operation are maintained, but measurement precision and quantitative analysis capability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/qualitative swing evaluation methods with an electronic sensor-based system. An inertial measurement unit (IMU) containing accelerometers and gyroscopes is integrated into the golf club head, enabling automatic quantitative measurement of swing parameters such as club head speed, acceleration, orientation angles, and impact forces without requiring manual observation or complex mechanical measurement devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system performs multiple functions simultaneously: it measures linear acceleration, angular velocity, club head orientation, swing speed, and impact characteristics using a single integrated IMU unit. This multi-functional approach provides comprehensive swing analysis without requiring separate devices for each measurement parameter, thereby improving measurement precision without proportionally increasing system complexity.
2Measurement precision
If real-time sensor data collection is implemented, then measurement precision and data availability are improved, but loss of time for data processing and computation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously collects and pre-processes sensor data during the swing motion itself, rather than attempting to process all raw data after the swing is complete. The microcontroller unit computes swing parameters in real-time during the swing event, and stores processed results for later analysis. This preliminary processing during data collection minimizes post-processing time and enables immediate feedback on swing characteristics.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are integrated into the golf club head, then measurement precision and swing parameter detection capability are improved, but weight of the moving object increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensing functions (accelerometry, gyroscopy) into a single integrated inertial measurement unit (IMU) that is embedded within the golf club head. This consolidation allows the system to measure multiple swing parameters simultaneously using a compact sensor package, minimizing the additional weight compared to using separate sensors for each measurement function.
4Reliability
If unknown input observer methods are used to compensate for gyroscope bias, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements an unknown input observer that continuously monitors gyroscope output and automatically compensates for bias errors through feedback processing. The microcontroller compares expected versus actual sensor readings during known motion phases, calculates bias deviations, and applies real-time corrections to the measured data. This feedback mechanism improves measurement reliability without requiring manual calibration or complex external equipment.
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 accurate, real-time analysis of golf swing motion without static leveling, providing detailed data on position, force, torque, roll, and pitch angles, enhancing golfer training and performance improvement.
Implementation Method 1
an accelerometer sensor, a gyroscope sensor
Implementation Method 2
a gyroscope sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A golf club head having accelerometer and gyroscope sensors measuring swing motion acceleration and angular rate values. Inputs of force and torque to the golf club head during the swing motion may be unknown, such that a system of motion equations may be used to calculate functions for the unknown input force and torque, as well as roll angle and pitch angle for the golf club head, and compensate for gyroscope bias, without using static leveling processes.