Abstract: The present method and apparatus capture the position of a golf ball on a golf course consistently and accurately using consumer-grade, affordable technology. The output provides the latitude and longitude of the ball along with, optionally, additional insights including surface type, club, stroke, penalties, etc. Accuracy can differ slightly depending on location but is typically within a matter of feet. For example, the rough may be less accurate whereas the greens should be very accurate. This method and apparatus utilize 3-5 trackers, typically volunteers, per hole to capture shot-level data while leveraging commercially available smart devices and range finders.

Abstract: A method and system that allows a self-standing vending machine to distribute controlled goods only to authorized purchasers wherein the authorization and purchase occurs via the purchaser's mobile computing device. The invention allows the purchaser to locate products, get information about products, and purchase products using their mobile phone and receive those products at a specified vending machine. The system uses information provided by the purchaser and possibly information from 3rd party sources to authorize the purchase of the controlled item.

Abstract: A robust system, method and environment for the programming, collection, manipulation, and propagation of RFID data enhances the integration of RFID elements into new and existing enterprise systems.