RF Node Network for Golf Course Distance Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current distance measuring technologies for golf, such as laser rangefinders and GPS units, have limitations including the need for line of sight, accuracy issues due to satellite reception, and inability to provide comprehensive data on environmental conditions and asset location on the golf course.
Innovation Solution
A wireless network with multiple nodes across the golf course, utilizing RF technology for bidirectional data communication and distance measurement, enabling accurate distance calculation and real-time asset tracking, while reducing power consumption and improving data communication efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If laser rangefinders are used for distance measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but the need for line of sight and steady hand requirement worsen the ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of fixed transceivers installed at reference locations (flagsticks, tees, hazards) and a mobile transceiver carried by the golfer. Instead of directly measuring distance optically, the system uses RF signal transmission through this intermediary network to calculate distances via triangulation and signal strength comparison, eliminating the need for line of sight and steady hand requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the optical/mechanical laser rangefinding system with an electromagnetic RF communication system. The mechanical/optical process of aiming and steadying a laser device is substituted by the automated RF signal transmission and processing, where distances are calculated through signal strength comparison and triangulation based on fixed transceiver locations.
2Ease of operation
If GPS units are used for location and distance determination, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to satellite reception variability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the golf course into multiple reference locations with fixed transceivers (flagsticks, tees, hazards, water obstacles). Instead of relying on a single satellite-based positioning system, the course is divided into discrete measurement zones, each with its own reference points. This segmentation allows for more precise local measurements through signal strength comparison between multiple fixed points, improving overall measurement precision while maintaining ease of operation.
3Measurement precision
If multiple fixed transceivers are deployed across the golf course to improve location accuracy and data communication, then measurement precision and data communication capability are improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the golf course into discrete reference locations with fixed transceivers placed at key points (flagsticks, tees, hazards, water obstacles). This segmentation creates a distributed network of reference points that improve location accuracy through triangulation and signal strength comparison, while keeping individual transceiver units simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixed transceivers are designed to be passive or low-power devices that primarily receive signals from the mobile transceiver. The system uses the mobile device's processor to perform complex calculations including triangulation and signal strength comparison, rather than requiring each fixed transceiver to be fully active. This self-service approach reduces the complexity and power consumption of individual fixed units while maintaining overall system functionality.
4Adaptability or versatility
If RF transceivers are used for bidirectional data communication between golfer and course management, then adaptability and information availability are improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic action by having the mobile transceiver transmit data only when necessary (e.g., when approaching reference points, when requesting information) rather than maintaining continuous transmission. The fixed transceivers can periodically broadcast location and environmental data. This periodic communication pattern enables bidirectional data exchange for adaptability while significantly reducing overall power consumption compared to continuous communication.
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
The system provides accurate distance measurements and real-time asset tracking, enhancing golfer decision-making and golf course management by integrating distance measurement, data communication, and node location, improving overall efficiency and reducing power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
Each node includes a transceiver that can transmit and receive RF signals
Implementation Method 2
The system can determine the location of nodes on the course and calculate distances between nodes and between nodes and reference points
Data Source
AI summary
An intelligent golf course system comprising at least a network comprised of nodes and deployed on a golf course, the golf course comprising a series of holes or playing areas; The golf course system includes a means for determining the physical location of a node on the golf course, a means for tracking a change in a physical location of a node on the golf course, and a portable display unit configured to display information to a user. At least some portion of the network communicates using a wireless communication means and wherein the information at least includes a distance from the display unit to a node on the golf course.