Abstract: In an example, a conductive concrete structure disclosed. The conductive concrete can include a plurality of conductive side structures defining an interior of the conductive concrete structure and a plurality of conductive concrete partitions disposed within the interior of the conductive concrete structure. The plurality of conductive concrete partitions are arranged to define a labyrinth within the conductive concrete structure.

Abstract: A system and structure determines when or if a utility cart is entering a restricted geographical area, and can disrupt the ignition of the cart to prevent or at least stop such use. The system can also determine a safe time and location for such ignition disruption. A monitoring device can remotely and reliably monitor the state of charge of the cart's battery, even for carts of a range of different battery energy capacities, rated voltage, and technical makeup, and communicate such information to a computer system. A standalone device can be retrofitted onto an existing golf cart without requiring fundamental changes to the cart's initial construction. The device can include an inexpensive module that can reliably monitor the battery state and implement ignition cutoff without requiring software processing capacity within the module.

Abstract: A 3-Dimensional golf game having a horizontal surface, a vertical surface, and a curvilinear surface that interconnects the horizontal and vertical surfaces, wherein at least the vertical surface includes one or more ball-receiving cups. The game of skill is played by one or more players putting or striking a golf ball along the horizontal surface with sufficient force to travel through the curvilinear surface and up the vertical surface. The force of gravity then causes the ball to return back down the vertical surface and—if appropriately aimed and struck—the ball travels downwardly into the opening of the least one ball receiving cup. Players are awarded points for successfully landing the ball into the ball receiving cup and the game may include differently sized and/or positioned cups having different point values.

Abstract: A sports training aid comprising a body unit, attachable to a person's body or the person's sports implement, is provided with a positioning sensor module; a feedback stimulator; and a processor. The sports training aid is configured to provide instantaneous feedback on motion faults of a studied sports motion, and the body unit is intended to be attached to a person's body (or a person's sports implement) at a representative location, the location being bound to travel a path representative of the studied sports motion, and the positioning sensor module comprises acceleration sensors and gyro sensors. The processor is configured to determine a still position corresponding to an event wherein the body unit is determined to be still, to keep track of the sensor module's movements relative to the still position, and to activate the feedback stimulator in real time, upon detection of a sports motion fault.

Abstract: A system for monitoring and recording and processing an activity includes one or more cameras for automatically recording video of the activity. A remote media system is located at the location of the activity. A network media processor and services is communicatively coupled with the remote media system. The remote media system includes one or more AI enabled cameras. The AI enabled camera is configured to record the activity. The network media processor is configured to receive an activation request of the AI enabled camera and the validate the record request.

Abstract: Implementations generally relate to determining golf swing characteristics. In some implementations, a method includes obtaining a video of a person performing an action. The method further includes determining from the video a plurality of points associated with the person, where the determining of the plurality of points is performed for each frame of the video. The method further includes determining a plurality of three-dimensional (3D) coordinates for each point of the plurality of points, where the determining of the 3D coordinates is performed for each frame of the video. The method further includes determining a movement of the plurality of points based at least in part on the 3D coordinates. The method further includes determining one or more movement errors based at least in part on the movement of the plurality of points.

Abstract: A putting cup includes an exterior housing configured to be disposed within a putting hole on a putting green and an interior core configured to be removably disposed within the exterior housing. The interior core defines an interior compartment for housing at least one electronic component and at least one battery for powering the electronic component. A first pair of charging contacts are provided on the interior core for being electrically connected to a second pair of charging contacts provided on a charger to charge the at least one battery with the interior core removed from the exterior housing. The at least one electronic component may include a printed circuit board (PCB) and at least one light-emitting diode (LED) of a predetermined color electrically coupled to the PCB. A dimmer circuit may be provided for periodically interrupting electrical power to the at least one LED to extend the battery life.

Abstract: A device and method for aiding an improvement of a golfer's swing with the goal of teaching the golfer to keep the golfer's head down until a fraction of a second after making contact with the golf ball. The golfer loads a customizable app into a smartphone placed on the ground a short distance from the golf ball which app flashes a symbol or color on the touch screen of the smartphone a preset time after detecting the sound of the club impacting the ball. The eyes of the golfer are trained on the smartphone forcing the head to remain looking down until observing the flashing symbol or color upon which the head is then turned upward to observe the path of the struck golf ball.

Abstract: A motion analysis device includes a calculation unit which specifies a first imaginary plane, that is, a shaft plane formed by a first line segment representing a direction in which a shaft part of a sporting gear in a static posture extends and a second line segment representing a ball hitting direction, with the use of an output from an inertial sensor.

Abstract: A portable lighting apparatus is disclosed. The portable lighting apparatus includes a shaft, a lighting assembly coupled to a first end of the shaft, and a base coupled to a second end of the shaft. The lighting assembly includes a housing, a bulb coupled to an outer surface of the housing, and a cover coupled to the housing and overhanging the bulb. An inner surface of the cover facing the bulb is adapted to reflect light emitted from the bulb. The portable lighting apparatus also includes a rechargeable battery coupled to the bulb.

Abstract: A green simulation apparatus having a configurable upper surface with a changeable contour may comprise a covering forming the upper surface and a covering support assembly configured to support the covering. The support assembly may comprise a plurality of movable positioning elements having the covering resting thereon and positioned in an array extending in a reference plane and movable along axes extending substantially perpendicular to the reference plane. The support assembly may comprise a movement actuator configured to move at least one of the positioning elements independently of other positioning elements in the array.

Abstract: A green simulation apparatus having a configurable upper surface with a changeable contour may comprise a covering forming the upper surface and a covering support assembly configured to support the covering. The support assembly may comprise a plurality of movable positioning elements having the covering resting thereon and positioned in an array extending in a reference plane and movable along axes extending substantially perpendicular to the reference plane. The support assembly may comprise a movement actuator configured to move at least one of the positioning elements independently of other positioning elements in the array.

Abstract: A green simulation apparatus may comprise a covering forming a configurable upper surface with a changeable contour and being flexible such that the covering is movable between a base condition in which the upper surface has a substantially planar configuration and a contoured condition in which the upper surface has a contoured configuration. The apparatus may also comprise a covering support assembly configured to support the covering in the base condition and the contoured condition.

Abstract: A golf shot recordal system permits images of a golfer's shot to be recorded. The system comprises a tee unit adjacent to the tee comprising a tee camera and a green unit in the golf hole on the green comprising a green camera. The tee unit further comprises a radio frequency video receiver to receive and decode signals corresponding to the image from the green camera and a video encoder to receive signals corresponding to the image from the tee camera and signals corresponding to the green images from the radio frequency receiver. The green unit further comprises a pin located in the golf hole, wherein the green camera is mounted on the pin, and a radio frequency video transmitter to send signals to the radio frequency video receiver in the tee unit. Also provided is a method of recording video images of a golfer's shot using the recordal system.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining an angle of attack of a golf swing based on multiple ball hitting is disclosed. Multiple golf balls of different known constructions are hit by a golfer. Club head speed and backspin data associated with each of the hit golf balls is measured. Based on a correlation between an angle of attack and measured data associated with the golf balls of different known constructions, an angle of attack of a golf swing can be determined. Different sets of golf balls of known constructions can be provided based on characteristics of a golfer. A kit including at least three golf balls of different known constructions and a database containing the correlation between data associated with the at least three golf balls and an angle of attack is also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for visually superimposing a first image that may be in motion over and/or under a second image that may be in motion, the system including at least one generating device to provide a first image and a second image, a display device to display the first image and second image superimposed with each other, and an adjustment device for reconfiguring the first image and/or the second image to a size in agreement with a non-adjusted first image and/or second image, to a size in agreement with the display device, and/or to a size acceptable by a user. The first image or the second image is displayed in a different media than the other image to allow for a distinction to be made between movements occurring in both images. A method for visually superimposing a first image that may be in motion over and/or under a second image that may be in motion is further disclosed.

Abstract: A tiltable/adjustable golf practice device includes multiple height adjusters mounted on the respective corners of the teeing ground. By means of lifting or lowering the height adjusters, the teeing ground can be tilted to simulate the landform of a real golf course in accordance with the requirement of a user in practice. The tiltable/adjustable golf practice device is free from any electronic control or hydraulic device so that the manufacturing cost is greatly lowered. Also, a user can freely remove the tiltable/adjustable golf practice device so that the application of the tiltable/adjustable golf practice device is facilitated.

Abstract: In a method of determining a deviation of a path of a projectile from a predetermined path, the method uses an image of a target area in which the desired path or direction is pointed out. Subsequently, the real direction or real path is determined and the deviation is determined.

Abstract: The training aid for practicing the skill of putting a golf ball in a straight direction is comprised of a kit which provides developmental drills to allow the avid golfer or participant an opportunity to improve their putting skills. The kit comprises a playing surface with various indicia and a set of target balls which enables the participant(s) to play various games which correspond to golfing. A base mat is placed underneath the playing surface and further has a perimeter rim to retain errant golf balls when exiting the playing surface. An auxiliary attachable backstop, a plurality of removably attachable standing platforms, and a detachable putter are also provided.

Abstract: A disclosed device provides a trajectory detection and feedback system. The system is capable of detecting one or more moving objects in free flight, analyzing a trajectory of each object and providing immediate feedback information to a human that has launched the object into flight, and/or one or more observers in the area. In a particular embodiment, a non-intrusive machine vision system that remotely detects trajectories of moving objects may be used to evaluate trajectory parameters for a basketball shot at a basketball hoop by a player. The feedback information, such as a trajectory entry angle into the basketball hoop and/or an entry velocity into the hoop for the shot, may be output to the player in an auditory format using a sound projection device. The system may be operable to be set-up and to operate in a substantially autonomous manner.

Abstract: A green simulation apparatus may comprise a covering forming a configurable upper surface with a changeable contour and being flexible such that the covering is movable between a base condition in which the upper surface has a substantially planar configuration and a contoured condition in which the upper surface has a contoured configuration. The apparatus may also comprise a covering support assembly configured to support the covering in the base condition and the contoured condition.

Abstract: This golf course includes a fairway (11), tees (17), greens (1), holes (3) and bunkers (4), and other customary obstacles (6). As a particular feature, it has a special lighting arrangement, such that it also allows golf to be played during hours of darkness. To this end, at least the tees (17), the greens (1), the bunkers (4) and obstacles (6) are each equipped with a series of discrete or continuous light sources (12, 15, 18, 20, 36), preferably in the form of ground-installed LEDs or of OLEDs or LEDs. These lights extend along the edges of the objects in question and are installed flush with the ground. The holes (3) are illuminated internally by means of a light source, and the flagpoles (24) are designed as removable illuminating poles, such that the hole (3) remains lit even after removal of the flagpole. On a golf course equipped in this manner, the game of golf is played with an illuminating golf ball.

Abstract: A tape measure is attached to an accessory attached to a flag pole residing in a golf course hole. The accessory includes a mouth openable to engage the flag pole. Once the mouth is closed, the pole resides in a throat surrounded by a plurality of rollers residing co-axial with the pole. The rollers allow the accessory to freely rotate on the flag pole, but include a non-slip outer surface to prevent the accessory from sliding on the pole. Tape is drawn from the tape measure attached to a measuring tape attachment feature to measure the distance to a golf ball, and the accessory freely rotates on the flag pole to provide accurate repeatable measurements. The tape measure is preferably attached to an axially rotating measuring tape attachment feature.

Abstract: A system that captures, analyzes and provides feedback related to golf is described. The system is designed to capture and analyze an initial trajectory of a golf ball and predict a subsequent flight of the ball. The system may be configured to provide immediate feedback that may be utilized by a player to improve their performance as well as provide entertainment value above and beyond what is normally associated with the play of a game of golf. The analysis and feedback system may be portable and may be operable for use in an area where golf is normally played, such as a golf course or an area where golf training takes place, such as a driving range. In one example, the analysis and feedback system may be integrated into a golf bag. Further, the system may be designed to be non-intrusive such that a player may use the system and receive feedback during normal activities associated with golf, such as out on a golf course.

Abstract: A tee-off golfing mat which includes an upper layer and which positions the upper layer on a distance D from a reference layer. The upper layer of the golfing mat provides a platform for teeing-off a golfing ball. At least a part of the upper layer, when exerting a force on the mat during teeing-off, is resilient in height direction of the golfing mat. The resiliency of the golfing mat is caused by magnetic forces.

Abstract: Described herein are methods and apparatuses for simulating golf. For example, described herein is a system for simulating a golf game. The system includes a simulator with a golf ball launch area and a display and an exercise device. The exercise device and simulator are connected to a computer.

Abstract: The golf swing training aid for simulating the feeling of creating a divot during a practice golf swing includes a flexible mat including an upper surface and a leading edge. A flexible ball support member is spaced from the leading edge for temporarily supporting a golf ball therebetween. The support member resiliently flexes away from the leading edge as the golf ball is struck by a golf club permitting the golf club to travel below the upper surface immediately beyond the leading edge and provide a divot feedback to a golfer. The upper surface or the ball support member comprises resiliently flexible plastic and can also include a ball alignment feature. The flexible mat includes an upper pad overlying a turf layer disposed above a resiliently flexible base layer. The flexible mat comprises a U-shaped recess where the ball support member is disposed within.

Abstract: Identification of the tee-off bay (52;53) from which a golf ball landing on a golf-range target (51) originated, is made by calculating an estimate of flight duration (Edurk) of the descending ball as a function of the measured angle (?) of descent in elevation, and, in respect of each ball launched from the bays (52,53), comparing this estimate for a match with a measured interval between the launch of the respective ball and descent of the descending ball. The originating bay (52;53) of the launched ball for which there is the closest match is identified as the origin of the descending ball, and ambiguity or uncertainty between which bay (52,53) is identified is resolved through comparison of the measured angle (?des) of descent in azimuth of the descending ball with estimates (Edirk) of it calculated for each launched ball, and through similar comparison in respect of a calculated decelaration ratio (Edeck) and flight duration (Durk).

Abstract: A stroboscope is utilized as an input device of a golf game system (10), for example. The golf game system includes a game machine (12) as an information processing apparatus and a golf-club-shaped input device (14), and within a housing of the game machine, an imaging unit (28) is housed, and the imaging unit is provided with an image sensor (40) and an infrared-LED. By utilizing the infrared-LED, an infrared ray is intermittently emitted to a predetermined range of an upper portion of the imaging unit. Accordingly, the image sensor intermittently images a reflective body provided in the golf-club-shaped input device moving within the range. Such the stroboscope image processing of the reflective body enables calculation of a velocity, and so on as an input of the game machine.

Abstract: A method of determining a deviation of a path of a projectile from a predetermined path. The method uses an image of a target area in which the desired path or direction is pointed out. Subsequently, the real direction or path is determined and the deviation determined.

Abstract: The present invention relates to shot tracking. More specifically, the present invention relates to a method and system for tracking shots of a golfer during a round of golf. One aspect of the present invention is a system for automatically tracking a golf club swung by a golfer. The system comprises a plurality of golf clubs. Each of the plurality of golf clubs comprises a device attached to a grip which is attached to a shaft which is attached to a golf club head. The device comprises a power source, a shock switch and a RFID component.

Abstract: An electronic sensor module for us in an interactive system, such as an interactive sports training device, for accurately detecting a projectile brought within close proximity of a target. The sensor module includes a plurality of light sources arranged in a housing such that the light sources are visible through a surface of the housing when activated. A plurality of sensors are also arranged in the housing for detecting the presence of a projectile. In one aspect, the sensors are arranged in a polar array about a center of housing with spaces between adjacent sensors, and with a light source positioned in each space between adjacent sensors.

Abstract: A system is provided for tracking and visually displaying golf reservations in a computer-implemented environment. The system provides a display with a grid or array of times arranged according to golf hole numbers. A reservation designator, by its location on the grid, identifies a start time and start hole, and includes an identifier to identify one or more golfers corresponding to a reservation. The duration of the game associated with reservation designator is estimated based upon golf course parameters. The reservation designator thus visually indicates a predicted location of the players corresponding to a golf game reservation. Additionally, the system may provide for tracking and sales of green fees and merchandise.

Abstract: Analysis of a golfer's putting stroke towards a target-hole (2) is derived by an analyzer (12;50) from sensor-signals representative of initial ball-speed and direction, using accumulated sets of historical putting-data, each set of historical data including initial putted ball-speed and direction and the resultant ball-speed and direction in approach to the target-hole (2), together with representation of whether the putt was successful. Initial ball-speed and direction is sensed by opto-electronic sensors (45) responding to back-reflection of infrared beams (13) from retro-reflectors (22-26) on the putted ball (1;20;52), or, is using retro-reflectors (71-73; 77,75) on the putter (3;51;70;74). Resultant ball-speed and direction in approach to the target-hole (2), and whether the putt is successful, is sensed by a monitor (7) from infrared beams (8-10).

Abstract: A golf training aid which incorporates a standard golf club, with a Nerf golf ball or a whiffle golf ball, and a target which is hung on the wall at adjustable heights, the target having a backboard removable secured to the wall, a face board positioned forward of the backboard, the face board having an aperture there through, the aperture in communication with a cavity positioned between said face board and said backboard for the collection of a Nerf golf ball or whiffle golf ball whose trajectory from the golf club has carried it through the aperture and into the cavity.

Abstract: A portable golf practice game consisting of a wall having a front face, rear face, and base. The wall includes a plurality of openings along the base for the entry of an object there-through. Each opening includes an opening sensor to detect the presence of an object there-through. The wall further includes proximity sensors along the base to detect the presence of an object not passing though an opening. The sensors emit a signal which is detected by a processor connected to the wall. Each opening has a corresponding graphic element which displays a value interpreted by the processor. A user chooses a game on the input device, then propels an object toward the wall, a sensor emits a signal, the processor interprets the signal and the graphic element displays an assigned value.

Abstract: This application relates to a single camera monitoring system useful for determining parameters relating to a striking instrument as it approaches an object. The monitoring system may be used to determine the swing characteristics of a golf club as it approaches and impacts with a golf ball. The accuracy of the single camera system may be comparable to the accuracy of more complex, multi-camera systems. The application also relates to methods for calibrating a single camera system.

Abstract: A stroboscope is utilized as an input device of a golf game system (10), for example. The golf game system includes a game machine (12) as an information processing apparatus and a golf-club-shaped input device (14), and within a housing of the game machine, an imaging unit (28) is housed, and the imaging unit is provided with an image sensor (40) and an infrared-LED. By utilizing the infrared-LED, an infrared ray is intermittently emitted to a predetermined range of an upper portion of the imaging unit. Accordingly, the image sensor intermittently images a reflective body provided in the golf-club-shaped input device moving within the range. Such the stroboscope image processing of the reflective body enables calculation of a velocity, and so on as an input of the game machine.

Abstract: A golf shot recordal system that permits images of a golfer's shot to be recorded comprises: (a) a tee unit that comprises a tee camera, which can provide a video image of the golfer and the golf ball at the tee, and down the fairway towards the green, the tee unit being locatable adjacent to the tee; and (b) a green unit that comprises a green camera, which can provide a video image of the golf ball when it has been hit onto the green, the green unit being locatable in the golf hole on the green. The tee unit further comprises: (i) a radio frequency video receiver which can receive and decode signals corresponding to the image from the green camera; and (ii) a video encoder that can receive signals corresponding to the tee images from the tee camera and that can receive signals corresponding to the green images from the radio frequency receiver.

Abstract: A golf course marker comprising of at least one extendable member made of multiple telescoping sections capable of existing in a fully contracted configuration under ground or a fully extended configuration above the ground, and housed in an underground container.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and method for correcting a golf swing using the Internet, which allows a golf to correct his golf swing through the use of the Internet, thus improving the golfing ability of the golfer. The system of the present invention includes photographing means, image processing means, weight center detecting means, club head detecting means, signal processing means, control means, display means, practice center communication means, personal communication means, a Web server, a three-dimensional data generating server, a golf swing managing server, and a mail server. The system of the present invention can provide moving pictures of golf swing practice and golf swing correcting data via the Internet, so a user's golf swing can be easily corrected at a golf practice center, home or office.

Abstract: A marker for a golf course and a method for using the marker that can have a changeable message. The marker can have a transparent plastic outer body, a display means, a changeable message and an anchoring device. There can also be an adhesive pad that can connect the anchoring device to the transparent plastic outer body. The display means can be visible through eh transparent foldable plastic outer body.

Abstract: A golf swing measurement device is placed in front of a golfer when the golfer swings a golf club to hit a golf ball. The golf swing measurement device includes a sidewall portion extending substantially in parallel to a swing path of the club head; a first sensor coil and a second sensor coil disposed along the sidewall portion for detecting a club head with a permanent magnet on a distal thereof passing therethrough; a calculation unit for calculating a swing time from a start moment of a backswing to a moment of an impact, a head speed upon the impact, and a total flying distance; a display unit for displaying the swing time, the head speed, and the total flying distance; a memory unit for storing measurement data including the swing time, head speed, and the total flying distance; and a transmission unit for sending the measurement data.

Abstract: A marker for a golf course and a method for using the marker that can have a changeable message. The marker can have a transparent plastic outer body, a display means, a changeable message and an anchoring device. There can also be an adhesive pad that can connect the anchoring device to the transparent plastic outer body. The display means can be visible through eh transparent foldable plastic outer body.

Abstract: The present invention provides a ball measuring apparatus capable of measuring a trajectory of a ball from a hitting position to a landing position, the landing position and a stop position. A ball measuring apparatus 100 according to a first embodiment includes a first millimeter wave radar device 1 capable of carrying out a measurement from the hitting position to a predetermined position of the trajectory and having at least one transmitting antenna and a plurality of receiving antennas, and a second millimeter wave radar device 2 capable of measuring the stop position and having at least one transmitting antenna and a plurality of receiving antennas. A ball measuring apparatus 101 according to a second embodiment has a millimeter wave radar device 31 and a CCD camera 32.

Abstract: A system for aligning an object with a target is disclosed. The system allows an operator to monitor the alignment of the object, either while the object is stationary or while the object is moving through a trajectory, without requiring that the operator directly view the target. The system preferably comprises a positioning unit for attaching to the object, such as a golfing putter, and a target unit for positioning at, near or over a target location, such as a hole. The positioning unit and the target unit are in two-way communication to detect and to indicate alignment of the object with the target. Preferably, the positioning unit emits light that is preferably laser light or infrared light, and the target unit detects that light when the units are aligned. When the positioning unit and the target unit are aligned, the target unit emits an alignment signal that is preferably a radio signal. The radio signal initiates a display element for indicating that the object and target are aligned.

Abstract: A golf game apparatus which provides a unique form of swing measurement, scaled course maps for play, and interchangeable club heads to play with. The apparatus is particularly suited to indoor play with the scaled maps. The apparatus features recordable ball distance measurement which is reset after each swing, thereby enabling a player to progress along the course map.

Abstract: A device for marking a distance to a golf player when playing golf on a golf course, the golf course comprising an area established for striking out a golf ball and an essentially open field, the device comprising a body adapted to be positioned in a visible manner to the golf player in said field and at a definite distance from said area, and a golf course for at least one golf player during golf play, the golf course comprising an area for striking out a golf ball and an essentially open field.

Abstract: A miniature golf game involving a miniature golf hole having a playing surface including a tee-off area and a ball-receiving cup. The hole includes a pachinko game or other game of chance, which may be positioned within the playing surface or otherwise adjacent the cup. The game of chance is operable to select one a predetermined plurality of prizes. The player putts the golf ball along the playing surface and into the cup. The game of chance is operated to select a prize for award to the player. The travel of the ball within the game of chance may determine the selection of the prize. Such operation may occur automatedly or manually in response to receipt of the ball in the cup. The player is awarded the prize selected by the game of chance. Prizes may be dispensed in an automated fashion, and may include a counter for accounting purposes.

Abstract: A golf practice and exercise system having a practice ball and a target assembly, using either a conventional or practice golf club. The practice ball is any generally spherical shape made of a flexible material and having an internal pressure of approximately atmospheric, for example an uninflated soccer ball. The weight of the practice ball is sufficient to provide muscle development, but is limited to allow the golfer to complete the follow-through of the golf swing. The target assembly has an energy absorbing surface attached to a rigid frame held in place by a frame support structure. Alternatively, the target assembly is a flat surface made of a hard material. The practice golf club has a substantially oversized club head with a peripheral rim defining a large opening through the club head. The club head may be selectively weighted. The grip of the club has alternating annular ridges and recesses.