Putter Assembly with Image Sensor and Display for Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing golf putters lack effective alignment aids that utilize image sensors and displays to properly align the face angle with the target, limiting golfer focus on speed and stroke mechanics during practice and play.
Innovation Solution
A putter assembly incorporating an elongated shaft, putter head, grip, image sensor, display, and energy source, where the image sensor is associated with the putter head or shaft, and the display provides real-time alignment data, including distance to the target and STIMP conditions, to facilitate improved alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional alignment aids (laser, mirror, pipe) are added to putters, then alignment capability is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical alignment systems (laser projectors, mirrors, pipe structures) with an electronic image-based alignment system. The image sensor captures visual information of the putting surface and target, while the display presents alignment guidance to the golfer, eliminating the need for complex mechanical alignment components.
Solution Approach 2:
The putter head combines multiple functions into a single integrated system: the image sensor serves both as a camera for capturing putting surface information and as an alignment aid, while the display provides both visual feedback and alignment guidance. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate alignment devices.
2Measurement precision
If alignment aids are integrated into the putter, then alignment precision is improved, but the putter cannot be used for both practice and play due to deactivated sensors
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment system incorporates dynamic control through the controller that can activate or deactivate the image sensor and display based on the intended use. During play, the system remains deactivated to avoid distraction, while during practice, the controller activates the alignment aids, allowing the same putter to serve both purposes effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes its operational parameters (activation state of sensor and display) based on the usage context. The controller manages the transition between practice mode (sensors active, alignment aids enabled) and play mode (sensors deactivated, clean interface), allowing the putter to adapt to different scenarios without physical modification.
3Loss of information
If image sensor and display are added to the putter, then alignment information is provided, but weight of the putter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the alignment information function from heavy mechanical components and implements it through lightweight electronic components. The image sensor and display provide comprehensive alignment information while weighing significantly less than traditional mechanical alignment aids like laser projectors or mirror systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A putter assembly, configured to facilitate improved alignment by enabling the face angle of the putter to be properly aligned with the hole, including: (a) an elongated shaft; (b) a putter head; (c) a grip; (d) an image sensor, wherein the image sensor is associated with at least one of the putter head and the elongated shaft; (e) a display, wherein the display is in communication with the image sensor; and (f) an energy source, wherein the energy source is in electrical communication with the image sensor and the display.