Golf Putting Precision via Fixed Reference Points and DEMs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current golfing aids, such as GPS devices and laser rangefinders, provide coarse accuracy for determining distances on a golf course, particularly challenging for precise putting and real-time adjustments during a game, as they rely on the golfer's steady hand and do not account for the green's topography and surface characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A method using multi-image photogrammetry and Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) with fixed reference points, like sprinkler heads, to determine the precise location of a golf ball or hole on a putting green, incorporating 3D coordinates and distance measurements to enhance putting accuracy and surface understanding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS receivers are used to determine distances on a golf course, then distance information is provided to assist club selection, but the precision is coarse (varying by 10 to 15 yards) which adversely impacts club selection accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces fixed reference points (such as sprinkler heads) as intermediary objects with known precise locations on the golf course. These reference points serve as mediators between the GPS system and the target location, enabling more precise distance calculations by measuring distances to multiple reference points and computing the target position through triangulation or trilateration methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional GPS coordinates to three-dimensional spatial positioning by incorporating elevation data from Digital Elevation Models (DEMs). This dimensional enhancement allows for more precise location determination on the golf course surface by considering vertical variations in terrain, particularly important for putting green topography
2Measurement precision
If laser rangefinders are used to measure distance to a target, then precise distance measurement is achieved, but the accuracy depends heavily on the golfer's ability to hold the rangefinder steady which introduces human error
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic distance measurement without requiring the golfer to manually steady the device. By using multiple fixed reference points and computational algorithms, the system self-determines the target position and distance, eliminating human error related to hand stability while maintaining high measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where distance measurements to multiple reference points are collected and processed to compute the target position. The system continuously refines the position calculation by comparing measurements from different reference points and using DEM data to account for terrain variations, thereby improving measurement reliability
3Loss of information
If course markers and yardage books are used to provide distance information, then pre-determined distance data is available, but the golfer must manually calculate exact distances for specific shots which is time-consuming and challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of reading yardage books and calculating distances with an automated electronic system. The device automatically captures GPS coordinates, retrieves reference point data, performs computational geometry calculations, and displays precise distances, thereby eliminating the time-consuming manual calculation process while preserving comprehensive distance information
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-loading GPS coordinates and elevation data for multiple fixed reference points onto the device before the golf round. This preliminary preparation enables rapid real-time distance calculations during play without requiring manual setup or calculation, thus reducing time loss while maintaining information availability
4Adaptability or versatility
If existing golf aids provide distance information for full swing shots, then club selection is assisted, but information for putting is limited which does not sufficiently assist with real-time putting execution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing differentiated information for different areas of the golf course. The system specifically enhances putting green functionality by incorporating detailed DEM data and fixed reference points near greens, enabling precise putting distance and slope information while maintaining general course mapping for other areas, thus achieving both versatility and specialized precision
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
This approach provides improved precision and accuracy for putting by leveraging fixed reference points and photogrammetric methods, allowing golfers to better align and strike the ball based on precise location and surface contours, enhancing both training and real-time performance.
Implementation Method 1
determining the precise location of a target on a surface using photogrammetric methods
Implementation Method 2
Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) with fixed reference points, like sprinkler heads, to determine the precise location of a golf ball or hole on a putting green
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for determining the precise location of a target on a surface by utilizing a plurality of objects that are fixed in their position proximate to the location, thereby constituting a plurality of fixed reference points, upon which the target(s) resides or is otherwise located. The plurality of fixed references points are used either in conjunction with images of the target or certain distance measurements between the target and the fixed reference points to determine the precise location of the target(s) on the surface.