Real-Time Golf Swing Odds Prediction via Laser Rangefinder

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The game of golf presents challenges in predicting the success of a golf swing in real-time due to its large geographical scope and conservative nature, making it difficult to accurately calculate the odds of a swing terminating in a hole without disrupting playing conditions.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that utilize electronic communication-enabled ball position identifying equipment, such as drones or laser rangefinders, to determine the ball's position in real-time and compare it with historical data to calculate the odds of success, allowing for minimal disruption to the game and enabling precise betting opportunities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If real-time ball position tracking equipment is deployed, then measurement precision of ball position is improved, but device complexity and disruption to playing conditions worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveball position determination accuracyVSAvoidtracking system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a laser rangefinder as an intermediary device that measures ball position indirectly through distance measurement from a known reference point, rather than using complex direct tracking systems. This mediator approach simplifies the overall system while achieving the required measurement precision for odds calculation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical or optical tracking systems with a simpler laser-based rangefinding system. The laser rangefinder uses electromagnetic radiation (laser) instead of mechanical tracking devices, reducing system complexity while maintaining or improving measurement precision through optical principles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If real-time ball position tracking is implemented, then calculation speed of swing odds is improved, but loss of time for game disruption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveodds calculation speedVSAvoidtime for game disruption
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary actions by establishing known reference points (starting positions of players and ball) before the swing occurs. The laser rangefinder measures distance from these pre-established references, allowing rapid odds calculation without requiring continuous real-time tracking during the game, thus minimizing time loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts only the essential information needed for odds calculation (ball position relative to hole) from the complex game environment. By focusing solely on measuring the distance between the ball and hole using the laser rangefinder, the system eliminates unnecessary tracking data processing, improving calculation speed while minimizing interference with the game flow.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Reliability

If conservative organizers and players resist changes, then reliability of playing conditions is improved, but adaptability of tracking system worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveplaying condition stabilityVSAvoidsystem adaptability to conservative environment
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-service approach where the laser rangefinder operates autonomously to measure ball position without requiring active participation or permission from players or organizers. The system independently collects data at functional distances, adapting to the conservative environment by making minimal intrusions while maintaining reliable measurement capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies partial action by measuring ball position only at functional distances relevant to the game (within 250 meters, preferably within 200 meters of the hole) rather than continuously tracking the entire course. This selective measurement approach reduces system complexity and resistance from conservative organizers while maintaining sufficient adaptability for odds calculation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS11975238B2Method and apparatus for predicting likely success of golf swings
Publication Date: 2024.05.07 CALABRESE CHRISTOPHER

AI summary

A method of predicting the likelihood of a post tee off golf swing or consecutive swings resulting in a ball being sunk in a hole; the method utilizing communication equipped cameras or communication equipped laser rangefinders at known locations to determine accurate ball lie information. Transmission of this location information in real time to a processing facility linked to a database of historical play information incorporating at least ball position information and golf course in order to calculate odds of success of the upcoming swing and/or subsequent swings.