Pressure Mat Golf Club Selection via Load Factor Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for selecting golf clubs, baseball bats, or hockey sticks rely primarily on the speed of the projectile, which is an incomplete parameter, failing to consider the complex ground pressure forces and load profiles applied by the player during a swing.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus using a pressure sensing mat to measure vertical and lateral forces, along with lateral speed, to generate output signals that a processor analyzes, employing algorithms to determine the most suitable club or shaft based on load factors, mass distribution, and flexibility profiles, and providing color-coded recommendations for optimal selection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If club selection is based on projectile speed alone, then the selection process is simple, but the selection precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the club selection process into multiple independent measurement components: vertical force measurement, lateral force measurement, and swing speed measurement. Each component is measured separately by dedicated sensors, and the results are integrated to form a comprehensive load profile for accurate club selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional projectile speed measurement to three-dimensional force analysis by adding vertical and lateral force measurements. This multi-dimensional approach captures the complete ground reaction forces applied during the swing, enabling precise club fitting based on actual load profiles.
2Measurement precision
If multiple force metrics are measured during swing, then the club selection accuracy improves, but the measurement system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a multi-functional sensing platform that simultaneously measures vertical forces, lateral forces, and swing speed using an integrated sensor array. This universal measurement system captures all necessary load parameters in a single setup, avoiding the need for multiple separate testing apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms complex force vector data into simplified load profile parameters that directly correlate with club shaft flexibility requirements. By changing the representation from raw force components to derived load characteristics, the system maintains high measurement precision while simplifying the interpretation and club selection process.
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 allows for a more precise selection of clubs or bats by considering multiple metrics, improving the fit and performance by matching the player's swing dynamics with the appropriate flexibility and grip, enhancing overall playing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure sensing mat or plate upon which the player places both feet while carrying out a sample swing or stroke; the pressure sensing mat or plate measuring forces applied by both feet of the player during the stroke and generating output signals dependent on the measured forces
Data Source
AI summary
A method for selecting a most suitable golf club from a set, where the shafts of the set are of different levels of flexibility along the shaft, includes using a pressure sensing mat upon which the player places both feet while carrying out a sample swing to measure forces applied by feet of the player during the stroke. The pressure sensing mat provides output signals indicative of vertical forces, lateral forces, both heel to toe and side to side, lateral speed, both heel to toe and side to side applied by the feet of the player during the swing and a processor operating on the signals selects certain ones of the output signals to calculate a load factor from the selected signals which is used to select one of the set most suitable for use by the player using a color coding system applied to the load factor.