Golf Wind Indicator Using Powder Dispenser
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining wind direction and velocity on a golf course are inaccurate and unreliable, particularly when grass or other indicators are not available, and distant wind indicators do not provide localized information relevant to the golfer's location.
Innovation Solution
A portable, eco-friendly powder dispenser that releases a finely ground powder, which floats with the wind to indicate direction and velocity, allowing golfers to select appropriate clubs and adjust their stance based on wind conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional wind indication methods (wet finger, grass blades) are used, then wind direction and velocity can be determined, but the accuracy is poor and the results are gross determinations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance (powder or liquid) that is dispensed from a container to serve as a mediator between the golfer and the wind. This intermediary carries the wind's movement characteristics directly to the golfer, providing accurate local wind information without requiring complex electronic sensors or distant indicators.
Solution Approach 2:
The powder or liquid creates a visible copy of the wind's path and characteristics. By observing how the dispersed material moves, flows, or accumulates, the golfer can directly see the wind direction and estimate velocity, transforming invisible wind into visible information without complex measurement devices.
2Measurement precision
If distant wind indicators (pennant on cup pole) are used, then wind information is available, but the information is not accurate for the golfer's local position due to variations in wind direction and velocity caused by surrounding trees, structures and terrain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the wind indication local by dispensing the powder or liquid at the golfer's immediate position. The material interacts with the local wind conditions right where the golfer stands, capturing the specific effects of nearby trees, structures, and terrain on that particular spot, rather than providing averaged or distant wind information.
Solution Approach 2:
The powder or liquid acts as a local intermediary that bridges the gap between the golfer and the immediate wind environment. It provides tactile and visual feedback about the wind conditions exactly where the golfer needs to make decisions, eliminating the distance problem of traditional indicators.
3Measurement precision
If a portable powder dispenser is used, then accurate local wind determination is achieved, but the device adds portability and operational considerations
Solution Approach 1:
The powder dispenser is designed to be self-contained and easy to operate, requiring minimal effort from the golfer. The golfer simply activates the dispenser (e.g., pressing a button or pulling a tab), and the device automatically releases the powder or liquid, providing wind information without requiring complex setup, calibration, or interpretation by the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a simple, inexpensive dispenser that can be easily replaced or refilled. The powder or liquid itself is a consumable material that provides immediate, single-use wind indication, eliminating the need for expensive, complex, or maintenance-heavy equipment while maintaining high accuracy.
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
Provides an accurate and portable means for golfers to assess wind direction and velocity, enabling informed club selection and shot planning, while also serving as a marker for ball location on the green.
Implementation Method 1
The puff of powder will float with the wind for a significant distance before descending to the ground. The direction and velocity of the puff of powder will provide an accurate indication of both the direction and velocity of the wind as the powder is carried by the wind.
Implementation Method 2
The puff of powder will float with the wind for a significant distance before descending to the ground.
Data Source
AI summary
A powder dispenser useable as a golf accessory includes a body of flexible material for housing a quantity of powder and a cap for controlling discharge of the powder. The cap includes an orifice for discharging the powder and a gate controlled by rotating the cap relative to the body to provide selective fluid communication with the powder within the body.