Golf Pace Regulator Mechanical Timing Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Golf courses face issues with slow play due to golfers not being aware of the time allocated for each hole, leading to bottlenecks and reduced player capacity, as existing devices are often complex, prone to human error, and not user-friendly.
Innovation Solution
A tamperproof, durable, and easy-to-use Golf Round Pace Regulator device that displays the time allotted for each hole, featuring a customizable decal, a mechanical timing mechanism, and a battery-powered quartz movement, allowing golf course management to enforce pace of play without requiring extensive installation or monitoring systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a timing device is provided to display time allotted for each hole, then pace of play is improved and congestion is reduced, but device complexity and susceptibility to tampering increase
Solution Approach 1:
The timing device is designed to be self-contained and self-regulating. It automatically displays the allotted time for each hole without requiring external control or adjustment during play. The device serves itself by mechanically tracking time and presenting it to golfers, eliminating the need for complex electronic systems or human operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive mechanical components rather than complex electronics. The timing mechanism uses basic mechanical elements that are durable yet simple in construction, prioritizing reliability and tamper-resistance over sophistication. This approach reduces complexity while maintaining functionality.
2Measurement precision
If existing timing devices are used, then time tracking is provided, but human error reduces accuracy and reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic or programmable systems with a purely mechanical timing mechanism. This mechanical system is inherently more reliable as it has no software bugs, battery failures, or programming errors. The mechanical components physically track and display time, eliminating human error in operation and interpretation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device creates a physical copy or representation of the time allocation that is visually displayed to golfers. This mechanical visualization accurately replicates the predetermined time limits without requiring interpretation or manual input, ensuring consistent and error-free timing information.
3Productivity
If complex monitoring systems are installed on the course, then pace enforcement is improved, but installation cost and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The timing function is segmented into a portable, self-contained device that can be distributed to individual golfers or groups rather than requiring a centralized course-wide system. Each device operates independently, eliminating the need for complex installation infrastructure across the entire course while maintaining effective pace enforcement.
Solution Approach 2:
The timing device is designed as a universal tool that can be used by any golfer or group on the course. It performs multiple functions: displaying allotted time, tracking current hole, and providing pace guidance. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate systems for different purposes, reducing overall installation and maintenance requirements.
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 device ensures consistent and accurate tracking of pace, minimizing congestion and frustration, allowing golf courses to maintain scheduled tee times and maximize player capacity, thereby improving revenue.
Implementation Method 1
a battery-powered quartz movement
Data Source
AI summary
A Golf Round Pace Regulator timing device is shown and described. The invention, with a custom course specific face decal, illustrates the time allocated to each hole on the golf course to help golfers maintain a steady pace of play to complete the course in the time allotted by the golf course management. The golfer(s) are responsible for maintaining the same pace on the course as the pace of the invention's moving clock hand across the easy to read face decal. The invention solves the problem of slow play and decreased course revenue due to slow play. The invention solves the expensive customization manufacturing problem since it may be mass produced, and after manufacturing the customized course decal may be created and applied. The Invention is easy to implement and use on any golf course.