Forensic Golf Stroke Verification via Ball ID and Sensor Fusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for verifying a golfer's single stroke achievements, such as hole-in-one, are prone to human error and observer influence, lacking forensic reliability and requiring non-standard equipment, which is not suitable for regular golf courses.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a golf ball identifier mechanism, launch monitor, target monitor, and golf cup monitor, using video recordings and GPS, to validate the identity of a standard golf ball before and after a stroke, minimizing observer impact by employing unique identifier marks and digital techniques for distance calculation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If human verification methods are used to validate golf achievements, then observer involvement is increased, but human error and confirmation bias reduce reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual verification processes with an automated digital system comprising sensors, cameras, GPS receivers, and processing units. The system automatically detects ball launch, tracks flight trajectory, and validates hole-in-one achievements without human intervention during the verification process, thereby eliminating human error and observer bias while maintaining high reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-verification where the golf course infrastructure itself automatically validates achievements. Sensors embedded in the ground, cameras positioned around the green, and GPS receivers work autonomously to detect and confirm hole-in-one events, removing the need for external observers and their associated errors
2Measurement precision
If nonstandard equipment is introduced to monitor golf strokes, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and suitability for regular golf courses deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multi-functional devices that serve both standard golf course purposes and verification functions. For example, cameras positioned to monitor the green also capture imagery for achievement validation, GPS receivers used for general course management also track ball trajectory, and sensors in the ground serve both drainage and detection purposes. This integration maintains equipment simplicity while achieving precise measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses intermediate detection elements such as sensors embedded in the ground near the cup, cameras positioned at strategic locations, and GPS receivers that indirectly detect ball arrival without requiring direct contact or complex interaction with the golf ball itself, thereby simplifying the overall system while maintaining precision
3Reliability
If multiple monitors and recording devices are deployed, then forensic reliability is improved, but loss of time for data processing and coordination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-configures multiple sensors, cameras, and GPS receivers in strategic positions around the golf course before play begins. Detection algorithms and validation logic are pre-programmed into the processing unit, enabling immediate automated verification upon ball arrival without requiring real-time human analysis or complex data coordination, thereby maintaining high forensic reliability while minimizing processing time
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements real-time feedback loops where sensors immediately detect ball arrival, cameras automatically capture relevant imagery, and the processing unit instantly validates the achievement against pre-set criteria. This automated feedback mechanism eliminates delays associated with manual data collection and analysis, providing rapid verification while maintaining comprehensive forensic evidence
Data Source
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AI summary
A single golf stroke achievement is forensically validated with minimal observer influence by digitally or electronically identifying a golfer and a golf ball, producing video recordings of the golf stroke, a subsequent flight of the ball, and arrival of the ball (if this occurs) at a target area which contains a golf cup, and detecting and recording entry of the golf ball into the cup (if this occurs).