PORTABLE GOLF DATA SYSTEM

Abstract

A portable golf data system includes a golf data system unit. The system unit includes a processor which is communicatively coupled to a non-volatile memory configured to store a firmware. A display is communicatively coupled to the processor. A near field communication component is communicatively coupled to the processor. A navigation receiver is also communicatively coupled to the processor. At least one user entry device is communicatively coupled to the processor. The at least one user entry device is configured to allow a user to control the portable golf data system. At least one NFC tag is configured to be mechanically coupled to a golf club and to be read by the near field communication component. A method for automatically logging a use of each golf club of a plurality of golf clubs is also described.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a GPS unit for golf and more particularly to a GPS unit for golf which keeps track of golf game statistics.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The game of golf is one of the most widely enjoyed sports activities in the world. The number of persons participating in this activity, both at the professional and recreational level, is almost unparalleled to other sports. Not only is this activity already widespread, but also the ranks of golfers continue to swell at an unprecedented rate. The sport of golf is typically played on a course consisting of nine or eighteen “holes”. A set of clubs is used to strike a golf ball along each hole comprising the course. Each hole consists of a starting location wherein a golfer places a ball and initially strikes the ball towards a green. Each green includes a recessed cup, and it is the object of the golfer to strike the ball with a series of strokes into the cup. Different clubs are used to vary the height, distance and spin of the ball, and a set of clubs may number ten or more. The holes normally vary in length from short holes of approximately one hundred yards to longer holes of five hundred yards and greater. The holes are flanked by rough areas out of which it is more difficult to play, and hazards are provided to increase the intricacy and precision required in play.

Various golf GPS devices, both handheld and golf cart-mounted, have been described in the prior art. The GPS system determines the location of the device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect, a portable golf data system for providing golf game data on a golf course, the golf course having a number of holes, each hole having a hole number and a par value. The system includes a portable data collection unit adapted to be carried by a user, the portable data collection unit includes a receiver configured to receive at least one external locating signal from which a current location on the golf course can be determined. A course data storage is disposed within the data collection unit is configured to store data related to the location of a plurality of golf course feature. A processor is disposed within the data collection unit and operatively connected to the receiver and to the data storage. The processor is configured to determine the current location on the golf course and to calculate one or more distances between the current location and at least one of the plurality of golf course features retained in the data storage. A display is disposed on or in the data collection unit so as to be viewable. The display is electrically coupled to the processor and configured to display the distance between the current location and the at least one of the plurality of golf course features. The system also includes a plurality of golf club identifiers. Each golf club identifier is configured to contain information. Each of the golf club identifiers is configured to have an association with a golf club to which the golf club identifier is mechanically affixed. A golf club identifier reader is configured to read the information from the golf club identifiers when one of the golf club identifier is positioned in a close proximity to the golf club identifier reader. The system also includes a stroke register within or coupled to the processor. The stroke register is configured to register each stroke taken by a user. The stroke register is configured to be actuated by detection of one of the golf club identifiers being in close proximity to the golf club identifier reader so as to record each stroke. The processor is configured to be responsive to the stroke register to maintain a count of the strokes taken during a round, wherein the count is incremented each time a stroke is registered. The processor is also configured to be responsive to the golf club identifier reader to calculate, based on the external locating signal, a distance a golf ball has traveled between strokes. A stroke data storage of the data collection unit is configured to store a distance a golf ball has traveled between each stroke and to associate the distance the ball has traveled between each stroke with a particular club used during the each stroke.

In one embodiment, the display is configured to indicate a number of strokes taken by the user during the game.

In another embodiment, the processor is configured to calculate and the display is configured to indicate a difference between a number of strokes a user has taken and a par value total for the holes played.

In yet another embodiment, the display is configured to indicate a number of strokes the user has taken for each hole.

In yet another embodiment, the display is configured to indicate a hole number played and a par value for the hole played.

In yet another embodiment, the portable data collection unit is configured to accept a user input of a custom location of a golf course feature.

In yet another embodiment, the processor is configured to calculate for each club an average distance a golf ball has traveled after being stroked by a user.

In yet another embodiment, the processor compares an average distance the ball has traveled after being stroked by each club to a distance to a golf course feature and determines which club has an average distance closet to the distance to the golf course feature and the display is configured to indicate such club.

In yet another embodiment, the processor is configured to calculate a number of holes in which a user has reached a feature of the hole in a par value minus two.

In yet another embodiment, the processor is configured to determine a number of strokes taken by a particular RFID tagged club.

In yet another embodiment, the processor is configured to calculate an average distance hit for a first stroke per hole.

In yet another embodiment, the processor is configured to keep track of an event selected from group consisting of pars, birdies, eagles, and bogeys.

In yet another embodiment, the golf club identifier reader includes a near field communication reader.

In yet another embodiment, the receiver includes a GPS receiver.

In yet another embodiment, the processor is configured to calculate a recommend club to use for a given shot based on a displayed yardage and the display is configured to display the recommended club.

In yet another embodiment, the processor is configured to calculate a recommend club to use for a given shot based on a displayed yardage and previous shot data and the display is configured to display the recommended club.

In yet another embodiment, the processor is configured to calculate a recommend club to use for a given shot based on a number of yards to a center of a green and an average yards hit per club and the display is configured to display the recommended club.

According to another aspect, a portable golf data system includes a golf data system unit includes a processor is communicatively coupled to a non-volatile memory configured to store a firmware. A display is communicatively coupled to the processor. A near field communication component is communicatively coupled to the processor. The near field communication component is electrically coupled to a NFC antenna. A navigation receiver is communicatively coupled to the processor. The navigation receiver is electrically coupled to a navigation receiver antenna. At least one user entry device is communicatively coupled to the processor. The at least one user entry device is configured to allow a user to control the portable golf data system. The system unit includes a means to accept power to operate the portable golf data system. At least one NFC tag is configured to be mechanically coupled to a golf club and to be read by the near field communication component.

In one embodiment, the receiver includes a GPS receiver.

In another embodiment, the portable golf data system further includes an audible signaling component configured to signal an event or a successful accomplishment of a set up or configuration feature.

In yet another embodiment, the means to accept power to operate the portable golf data system is configured to accept power from a rechargeable battery disposed within the golf data system unit.

According to yet another aspect, method for automatically logging a use of each golf club of a plurality of golf clubs at one or more locations on a golf course as determined by a navigation receiver including the steps of: providing a processor based golf data system unit including a navigation receiver and a near field communication component and a plurality of golf clubs, each of the golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag which is configured to be readable by the near field communication component of the golf data system unit; carrying the golf data system unit and at least one of the golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag to a location on a golf course; positioning the at least one of the golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag near a NFC antenna of the near field communication component and registering by the processor the use of the at least one of the golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag; recording the use of the at least one of the golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag at a holed defined by a correlation of a present position of the golf data system unit as determined by the navigation receiver at about a time when the step of positioning the at least one of the golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag near a NFC antenna of the near field communication component was performed; hitting a golf ball from the location on a golf course to another location on the golf course; carrying the golf data system unit and at least one of the golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag to the another location on the golf course about where the golf ball landed; calculating one or more golf game parameters or statistics based at least on which of the plurality of golf clubs was used and a distance between the location and the another location as determined by the navigation receiver; saving the one or more golf game parameters or statistics to a non-volatile memory; and repeating the steps from the step positioning the at least one of said golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag near a NFC antenna to the step of saving the one or more golf game parameters or statistics to a non-volatile memory during the course of a golf game.

In one embodiment, the step of providing a processor based golf data system unit including a navigation receiver and near field communication component includes providing a processor based golf data system unit including a GPS navigation receiver and a RFID near field communication component and a plurality of golf clubs, each of the golf clubs having affixed thereto a RFID tag which is configured to be readable by the near field communication component of the golf data system unit.

In another embodiment, the method for automatically logging a use of each club further includes following the step of carrying the golf data system unit and before the step of positioning the at least one of the golf clubs, recommending a club to use for a given shot based on at least a selected one of: a displayed yardage and a previous shot data.

In another embodiment, the method for automatically logging a use of each club further includes following the step of carrying the golf data system unit and before the step of positioning the at least one of the golf clubs, recommending a club to use for a given shot based on a number of yards to a center of a green, and an average yards hit per club.

The foregoing and other objects, aspects, features, and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following description and from the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The objects and features of the invention can be better understood with reference to the drawings described below, and the claims. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. In the drawings, like numerals are used to indicate like parts throughout the various views.

FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a portable golf data system unit;

FIG. 2A shows an illustration of one embodiment of a golf club identifier;

FIG. 2B shows an illustration of the golf club identifier cap of FIG. 2A affixed to a golf club handle;

FIG. 2C shows an illustration of the golf club identifier cap of FIG. 2A with the cover removed to expose the internal RFID tag;

FIG. 3A shows an illustration of an exemplary portable golf data system unit;

FIG. 3B shows the detail of an exemplary belt clip of the unit of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 3C shows another embodiment of an exemplary system unit having a USB interface;

FIG. 4 shows one exemplary display of golf game information;

FIG. 5 shows another exemplary display of golf game information;

FIG. 6 shows another exemplary display of golf game information as a round summary;

FIG. 7 shows another exemplary display of unit setup and control information; and

FIG. 8 shows a flow chart of an exemplary method for automatically logging the use and location of golf clubs as correlated to strokes and locations on a golf course.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Throughout the following description, specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the invention. However, the invention may be practiced without these particulars. In other instances, well known elements have not been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the disclosure. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.

As described hereinabove, golf GPS units have been available in the prior art. However, it was realized that there is a need for a golf GPS unit that can calculate one or more golf game parameters based on a location of the golf GPS unit, as well as to log information of which particular golf club was used for each golf stroke.

One solution includes a portable golf data system for providing golf game data to a user which is referred to herein as a “portable golf data system”. The user is typically a golfer playing a game of golf by stroking (i.e. hitting) a golf ball on a golf course. The golf course has a number of holes, which are typically numbered 1 through 9 or 1 through 18. Each hole typically has a par value, which is a number of strokes which a zero handicap golfer should need to complete the hole. The system includes portable data collection as part of a “portable golf data system unit” which is adapted to be carried by the user including a receiver for receiving at least one external locating signal, such as, for example, a GPS signal, from which the user's current location on the golf course can be determined. The data collection unit includes course data storage for storing data relating to the location of golf course features, such as greens and bunkers.

In some embodiments, the user can also optionally add input information about the location of golf course features. The data collection unit includes a processor operatively connected to the receiver and to the data storage for determining a user's current location on the course from the external locating signal and for calculating distances between the current location and at least one of the golf course features retained in the data storage. The data collection unit includes a display connected to the processor and is operative to display the distance between the current location and at least one selected golf course feature.

The system typically includes a plurality of golf club identifiers, each golf club identifier contains information and the information is associated with a club of the user. The golf club identifier is mechanically affixed by any suitable means in any suitable way to its corresponding golf club. For example, the golf club identifiers could be RFID tags which are inserted into the tops of each of the clubs. In one embodiment, each RFID tag has a number associated with it, and that number can be associated with a single club. The portable golf data system includes a golf club identifier reader for reading the information from the golf club identifiers when the user places the golf club identifier in close proximity to the golf club identifier reader. For example, the portable golf data system typically includes a near field communication reader.

In some embodiments, the data collection unit includes a stroke register to register each stroke taken by a user. The stroke register is actuated by the user placing the golf club identifier in close proximity to the golf club identifier reader to record each stroke. The processor is responsive to the stroke register to maintain a count of the strokes taken during a round, and the count is incremented each time a stroke is registered. The processor is responsive to the golf club identifier reader to calculate, based on the external locating signal, the distance the ball has traveled between strokes. Stroke data storage stores the distance the ball has traveled between each stroke and associates the distance the ball has traveled between each stroke with the club used for each stroke.

In some embodiments, the display can show information about the game being played by the user. In some embodiments, the display can also show the number of strokes taken by the user during the game, the number of strokes the user has taken for each hole, the number of the hole being played and the par value for that hole. The display can also show, for example, based on calculations from the processor the difference between the number of strokes the user has taken and the par value total for the holes played.

In one embodiment, the processor calculates for each club the average distance the ball has traveled after being stroked by the user. The processor can also compare the average distance the ball has traveled after being stroked by each club to the distance to a golf course feature and determine which club has an average distance closet to the distance to the golf course feature and the display indicates such club. Additionally, the processor can calculate the number of holes in which the user has reached a feature of the hole in the par value minus two, known as the greens in regulation (GIR) number. The processor can also determine the number of strokes taken with one of the clubs, such as the number of strokes (puts) made with the putter. The processor can also calculate the average distance hit on the first stroke of every hole, so that the user can determine his average drive length. The processor can also keep track of statistics such as the number of pars, birdies eagles and bogeys made by the user

FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of one exemplary embodiment of a portable golf data system, a golf GPS game tracker. The portable golf data system unit 10 includes a microprocessor unit 12. The microprocessor can be, for example, an ARM-based microprocessor such as those available from Freescale™ Semiconductor, however any other suitable type of microcontroller, microcomputer or microprocessor, etc. can be used. The portable golf data system includes various firmware and/or software generally stored on any suitable non-volatile computer media and/or in any suitable non-volatile memory (e.g. any suitable non-volatile semiconductor memory). The firmware is configured to control the operation of the golf data system 10 and to provide the functionality described hereinbelow.

A GPS module 20 is communicatively coupled to the microprocessor 12 and a GPS antenna 22 is connected to the GPS module 20. The GPS module can be, for example, a Telit brand GPS module, available from the Telit Wireless Solutions Corporation of Morrisville, N.C.; however, any other suitable GPS module can be used. The GPS antenna 22 receives the GPS signal from the GPS satellites (not shown). The GPS module 20 transfers location information to the microprocessor unit 12. The GPS module is preferably an integrated circuit based GPS module which typically includes a GPS L1 band receiver (or, equivalent navigation system receiver) and a microcontroller. It is unimportant if the GPS chipset is based on a single, integrated microchip, or multiple microchips such as a processor and a separate receiver which are operably coupled to each other. Thus, the GPS module typically includes a GPS receiver, associated integrated circuit(s), firmware and/or software to control the operation of the microchip, and may also include one or more correction signal receiver(s). Alternatively, the correction signal receiver(s) may be integrated into a single receiver along with the GPS receiver. As is well known, the GPS unit 20 (or equivalent satellite navigation system receiver) receives signals from GPS satellites (or equivalent satellite navigation satellites) and/or other signals such as correction signals, and calculates the positional coordinates of the GPS unit 20. The portable golf data system utilizes this positional data to calculate and display distances to features or selected locations on a golf course, as described in more detail below. The portable golf data system calculates the distance between the determined location of the device 10 and the front, middle and back of the green and displays the distance from the unit 10 to the front, the middle, and back of the green. As the portable golf data system 10 is moved, the location of the device 10 is continually updated, and the distances displayed are updated accordingly.

A near field communication system 30 is also communicatively coupled to the microprocessor unit 12. A near field communication antenna 32 is electrically coupled to the near field communication system 30 for transferring information from a golf club identifier device disposed on or in one or more of the golf clubs to the near field communication system 30. In some embodiments, the near field communication system is configured as a RFID near field communication system, such as is available from the Texas Instruments Corporation of Dallas, Tex. The information from the near field communication system 30 is transferred to the microprocessor 12. The memory includes all memory of the device including both non-volatile memory 40 and volatile memory as can be provided on the microprocessor unit 12, and any other volatile or non-volatile memory storage such as flash memory, coupled to the microprocessor. The memory 40 typically includes at least some of the software and data used to control and operate the golf data system 10. The microprocessor unit 12 retrieves and executes instructions and reads and writes data to and from the memory 40. The golf data system 10 is powered by a battery 50, and the battery is charged by charger 52. A USB port 54 can be used to power the charger 52 as well as provide a serial communication link between the portable golf data system 10 and any suitable computer, notepad, or mobile device offering USB connectivity. A regulator 56 regulates power supply voltages to the various components of the portable golf data system 10.

A power button 60 turns the portable golf data system 10 on and off. Buttons 62 allow the user to control the unit 10.A display 70 (e.g. a LCD color or mono-tone display) provides information to the user, as described hereinbelow. In some embodiments, a unit 10 can include a motor driver 80 for controlling a vibration motor 82 to provide a tactile indication related to preprogrammed events by mechanical coupling to a user, such as from through the pocket or belt clip of a portable golf data system 10 to the user. A buzzer 90 similarly can provide an optional audio indication related to preprogrammed events.

FIG. 2A shows an illustration of one exemplary embodiment of a golf club identifier which can contain information associated with a club of the user. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2A, golf club identifier cap 200 includes a golf club identifier body 201 housing an RFID tag (not shown in FIG. 2A) and covered by a cover 202. A cover 202 can be snapped in place, press fit, or adhered by a glue or solvent. Any suitable protective housing can be used in place of the body 201 and cover 202. Spike 203 can be used to affix a golf club identifier cap 200. In some embodiments, the cap housing can be manufactured from plastic. However, any material suitable to house an RFID tag can be used. Golf club identifier cap 200 is but one example of a RFID tag which can be used with a portable golf data system. For example, in one contemplated alternative embodiment, the RFID tag could be a relatively flat structure wrapped around the top of the handle by tape or adhesive.

FIG. 2B shows an exemplary golf club identifier cap 200 according to FIG. 2A affixed to the top of a golf club handle 210, such as by pressing spike 203 of the golf club identifier cap 200 into the top of the handle. Any other suitable means of affixing a golf club identifier cap to a golf club can be used, such as, for example, a threaded screw, any other suitable type of spike like fastener, glues, adhesives, etc.

FIG. 2C shows an illustration of the golf club identifier cap of FIG. 2A with cover 202 removed to expose the internal RFID tag 250.

The system includes a plurality of golf club identifiers, each golf club identifier containing information and associated with a club of the user. For example, the golf club identifiers could be RFID tags which are inserted into the tops of each of the clubs. In some embodiments, each RFID tag has a number associated with it, and that number is associated with a single club. The portable golf data system includes a golf club identifier reader for reading the information from the golf club identifiers when the user places the golf club identifier in close proximity to the golf club identifier reader. For example, the portable golf data system could include a near field communication reader.

FIG. 3A shows an illustration of one exemplary portable golf data system unit 310. Unit 310 includes a case 311, and a display 313, such as for example a liquid crystal display (LCD). Display 313 can be provided using any suitable display technology, such as for example, a LED back lit LCD, or an OLED display. Display 313 can be black and white (or any suitable monotone color) or a color display. Buttons 312a, 312b, and 312c provide a means for user interaction with unit 310. Any suitable jack 314 can be used to recharge the internal batteries (e.g. one or more rechargeable lithium ion batteries) or to power the unit 310 when used near an external power source.

FIG. 3B shows the detail of one exemplary embodiment of unit 310 having a belt clip 315. Unit 310 can be carried by a golfer in a pocket or worn on a belt, such as, for example, by use of belt clip 315, which in some embodiments includes a spring loaded pivot 316 to hold belt clip 315 closed about a belt or strap (belt not shown in FIG. 3A).

FIG. 3C shows another embodiment of system unit 320. Unit 320 includes a USB jack 316 for connecting unit 320 to any suitable computer. Other embodiments of a system unit can include one or more of any suitable means of wired or wireless connection to any suitable computer. For example, it is contemplated that a system unit could include a WiFi component configured to wirelessly transfer data to or from, for example, a smart phone or tablet computer. Similarly, it is contemplated that there could be any other wired communications means, such as for example, Bluetooth™. It is contemplated that a system unit can receive system unit updates, such as, for example, firmware upgrades, golf course updates, etc. via any suitable wired or wireless means. It is also contemplated that a system unit can download golf game data from the system unit to any suitable computer, including for example, a desktop computer, laptop computer, notebook computer, netbook computer, tablet, smart phone, etc. While some embodiments of a system unit might be compatible with only one computer operating system, it is contemplated that a system unit can be programmed to be compatible one or more of any suitable operating systems, such as, for example, the Apple operating systems, LINUX operating systems, etc. It is also contemplated that system unit having, for example, a WiFi network and/or Internet interface could support viewing of current game data by a web browser running on a remote computer communicatively coupled to a network and/or the Internet.

FIG. 4 shows one exemplary display 400 which displays game information. The users current score 110 is displayed, which is the total number of strokes taken during the game. The GPS feature is operating as indicated by GPS icon 403. The current time 402, can be based either on an internal clock, or preferably on a precise time obtained from the GPS receiver. Battery icon 405 indicates the charge status of the unit. The current number of strokes for the hole number being played and the par value are displayed by the HOLE/PAR numbers 410. The number of yards to the center of the green 406, the number of yards to the far edge, or front of the green 408 and the number of yards to the near edge, or back of the green 407with respect to a current GPS determined location are displayed. The number of yards to a second course feature, 409 (in this example a bunker) is also displayed with respect to the current GPS determined location. The recommended club 401 is displayed based on a comparison by the unit's processor of the number of yards to the center of the green 406 and the average yards hit per club.

FIG. 5 shows another exemplary display 500 which displays game information. The users current score 501 is displayed, which is typically the total number of strokes taken during the game. The current number of strokes 502 for the hole number being played and the par value are also both displayed as HOLE/PAR numbers 410.

FIG. 6 shows another exemplary display 600 which displays game information as a round summary. The round summary screen can include, for example, a score, an average drive distance, and a green in regulation (GIR) rating, the total number of putts, pars, birdies, bogeys and other types of shots.

FIG. 7 shows another exemplary display 600 which displays unit setup and control information. For example, the current highlighted item, when selected, as by clicking a button, such as, for example, button 312b, “Pair Clubs” 701 allows a user to add and define clubs having a golf club identifier, such as the golf club identifier cap 200 show in FIG. 2.

Summary of exemplary unit features: In some embodiments, a buzzer or beeper provides audio feedback for various events and/or functions. For example, there can be an audio indication that a club has been properly recognized and registered to the unit. In some embodiments, a vibration motor can provide an alternative or supplementary indication of an event or operation of a function, such as a successful operation to recognize a new RFID cap. Typically, the Flash memory will hold a full course database (typically including over 30 thousand courses) along with audio files (e.g. WAV files) that can be used for embodiments of the unit incorporating a voice feature of the unit (such as, for example reading various yardages). In some embodiments, on board non-volatile memory (e.g. one time writable ROM, EEPROM, etc.) can be used to store the unit's program code as firmware.

Thus, it can be seen that in preferred embodiments, the unit combines a Golf GPS and Game Tracking in one unit. One exemplary implementation can be supplied, for example, with 14 club RFID caps that can screw onto the top of each golf grip. Each of the caps has a uniquely coded passive RFID tag embedded within them.

The unit uses the NFC technology to recognize each club as it is held near or tapped closed to the unit before it is used. Preferred embodiments of the unit provide instant, accurate distance to front, center and back of the green and also keep track of a user's round data (without having to manually input any information) and allow a user to review their round. In some embodiments, users' can also transfer round data to the web and/or view a user's data for all rounds played.

Typically during a round, the unit performs at least some of the following functions: keeps the user's overall score (in stroke form and/or as +/− Par); auto advances to the next hole (e.g. by computer position awareness of position of the golf course with respect to holes and distances to points on the course including, for example, each hole and/or the center, front and back of each green); keeps a user's per number of strokes by hole, so you can see where you stand each hole; displays the hole number and par for each hole; allows a user to add at least one additional waypoint per hole which can provide a distance to another point on the hole (i.e.: dog leg, bunker, water hazard, etc.); records how far a user hits for each of the user's clubs. In some embodiments, the unit will only consider a shot that is within 80% of a user's previous shot, that way, wiffs, duffs and chips will not skew the overall average; recommend which club to hit (which club to use for a given shot) based on the current yardage shown and previous shot data collected (sometimes referred to as a “caddy feature” or “electronic caddy”); keep track of and record a user's GIR (Greens in regulation); keep track of and record a user's puts per round; and/or keep Track of and record a user's average driving distance; keep track of and record the number of Pars, Birdies, Eagles, Bogeys and Others per round.

Turning to the caddy feature in more detail, in some embodiments, the processor of the golf data system can be configured to calculate a recommend club to use for a given shot based on a displayed yardage and the display can show the recommended club. The processor of the golf data system can also be configured to calculate a recommend club to use for a given shot based on a displayed yardage and previous shot data and the display can show the recommended club. The processor of the golf data system can also be configured to calculate a recommend club to use for a given shot based on a number of yards to the center of the green and an average yards hit per club and the display can show the recommended club.

Exemplary method: FIG. 8 shows a flow chart of an exemplary method for automatically logging the use and location of golf clubs as correlated to strokes and locations on a golf course. The steps include: A) Provide a processor based golf data system unit including a navigation receiver and a near field communication component and a plurality of golf clubs. Each of the golf clubs has affixed thereto a tag which is configured to be readable by the near field communication component of the golf data system unit; B) Carry the golf data system unit and at least one of the golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag to a location on a golf course; C) position the at least one of the golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag near a NFC antenna of the near field communication component and registering by the processor the use of the at least one of the golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag; D) Record the use of the at least one of the golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag at a holed defined by a correlation of a present position of the golf data system unit as determined by the navigation receiver at about a time when the step of positioning the at least one of the golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag near a NFC antenna of the near field communication component was performed; E) hit a golf ball from the location on a golf course to another location on the golf course; carry the golf data system unit and at least one of the golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag to the another location on the golf course about where the golf ball landed; calculate one or more golf game parameters or statistics based at least on which of the plurality of golf clubs was used and a distance between the location and the another location as determined by the navigation receiver; F) save the one or more golf game parameters or statistics to a non-volatile memory; and G) repeat the steps from the step of position said at least one of the golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag near a NFC antenna to the step of save the one or more golf game parameters or statistics to a non-volatile memory during the course of a golf game.

Caddy feature method: In some embodiments, the method includes a recommendation of what club to use for a given shot based on at least a selected one of: a displayed yardage and a previous shot data. There can also be a recommendation of what club to use based on a number of yards to the center of the green and an average yards hit per club.

As will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing disclosure, many alterations and modifications are possible in the practice of this invention without departing from the spirit or scope thereof.

A computer readable non-transitory storage medium as non-transitory data storage includes any data stored on any suitable media in a non-fleeting manner. Such data storage includes any suitable computer readable non-transitory storage medium, including, but not limited to hard drives, EEPROM, non-volatile RAM, SSD devices, CDs, DVDs, etc.

While the present invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to the preferred mode as illustrated in the drawing, it will be understood by one skilled in the art that various changes in detail may be affected therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A portable golf data system for providing golf game data on a golf course, the golf course having a number of holes, each hole having a hole number and a par value, the system comprising:

a portable data collection unit adapted to be carried by a user, said portable data collection unit including a receiver configured to receive at least one external locating signal from which a current location on said golf course can be determined;

a course data storage disposed within the data collection unit configured to store data related to the location of a plurality of golf course features;

a processor disposed within the data collection unit operatively connected to said receiver and to said data storage, said processor configured to determine said current location on said golf course and to calculate one or more distances between said current location and at least one of said plurality of golf course features retained in said data storage;

a display disposed on or in said data collection unit so as to be viewable, said display electrically coupled to said processor and configured to display said distance between said current location and said at least one of said plurality of golf course features;

a plurality of golf club identifiers, each golf club identifier configured to contain information, each of said golf club identifiers configured to have an association with a golf club to which said golf club identifier is mechanically affixed;

a golf club identifier reader configured to read said information from said golf club identifiers when one of said golf club identifier is positioned in a close proximity to said golf club identifier reader;

a stroke register within or coupled to said processor, said stroke register configured to register each stroke taken by a user, said stroke register configured to be actuated by detection of one of said golf club identifiers being in close proximity to said golf club identifier reader so as to record each stroke;

the processor configured to be responsive to the stroke register to maintain a count of the strokes taken during a round, wherein the count is incremented each time a stroke is registered;

the processor configured to be responsive to the golf club identifier reader to calculate, based on the external locating signal, a distance a golf ball has traveled between strokes; and

a stroke data storage of said data collection unit configured to store a distance a golf ball has traveled between each stroke and to associate the distance the ball has traveled between each stroke with a particular club used during said each stroke.

2. The golf data system of claim 1, wherein said display is configured to indicate a number of strokes taken by the user during the game.

3. The golf data system of claim 1, wherein said processor is configured to calculate and said display is configured to indicate a difference between a number of strokes a user has taken and a par value total for the holes played.

4. The golf data system of claim 1, wherein said display is configured to indicate a number of strokes the user has taken for each hole.

5. The golf data system of claim 1, wherein said display is configured to indicate a hole number played and a par value for said hole played.

6. The golf data system of claim 1, wherein said portable data collection unit is configured to accept a user input of a custom location of a golf course feature.

7. The golf data system of claim 1, wherein said processor is configured to calculate for each club an average distance a golf ball has traveled after being stroked by a user.

8. The golf data system of claim 7, wherein said processor compares an average distance the ball has traveled after being stroked by each club to a distance to a golf course feature and determines which club has an average distance closet to said distance to said golf course feature and said display is configured to indicate such club.

9. The golf data system of claim 1, wherein said processor is configured to calculate a number of holes in which a user has reached a feature of the hole in a par value minus two.

10. The golf data system of claim 1, wherein said processor is configured to determine a number of strokes taken by a particular RFID tagged club.

11. The golf data system of claim 1, wherein said processor is configured to calculate an average distance hit for a first stroke per hole.

12. The golf data system of claim 1, wherein said processor is configured to keep track of an event selected from group consisting of pars, birdies, eagles, and bogeys.

13. The golf data system of claim 1, wherein said golf club identifier reader comprises a near field communication reader.

14. The golf data system of claim 1 wherein said receiver comprises a GPS receiver.

15. The golf data system of claim 1 wherein said processor is configured to calculate a recommend club to use for a given shot based on a displayed yardage and said display is configured to display said recommended club.

16. The golf data system of claim 1 wherein said processor is configured to calculate a recommend club to use for a given shot based on a displayed yardage and previous shot data and said display is configured to display said recommended club.

17. The golf data system of claim 1 wherein said processor is configured to calculate a recommend club to use for a given shot based on a number of yards to a center of a green and an average yards hit per club and said display is configured to display said recommended club.

18. A portable golf data system comprising:

a golf data system unit comprises: a processor communicatively coupled to a non-volatile memory configured to store a firmware; a display communicatively coupled to said processor; a near field communication component communicatively coupled to said processor, said near field communication component electrically coupled to a NFC antenna; a navigation receiver communicatively coupled to said processor, said navigation receiver electrically coupled to a navigation receiver antenna; at least one user entry device communicatively coupled to said processor, said at least one user entry device configured to allow a user to control said portable golf data system; a means to accept power to operate said portable golf data system; and

at least one NFC tag configured to be mechanically coupled to a golf club and to be read by said near field communication component.

19. The portable golf data system of claim 18, wherein said receiver comprises a GPS receiver.

20. The portable golf data system of claim 18, wherein said portable golf data system further comprises an audible signaling component configured to signal an event or a successful accomplishment of a set up or configuration feature.

21. The portable golf data system of claim 18, wherein said means to accept power to operate said portable golf data system is configured to accept power from a rechargeable battery disposed within said golf data system unit.

22. A method for automatically logging a use of each golf club of a plurality of golf clubs at one or more locations on a golf course as determined by a navigation receiver comprising the steps of:

providing a processor based golf data system unit including a navigation receiver and a near field communication component and a plurality of golf clubs, each of said golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag configured to be readable by said near field communication component of said golf data system unit;

carrying said golf data system unit and at least one of said golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag to a location on a golf course;

positioning said at least one of said golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag near a NFC antenna of said near field communication component and registering by said processor the use of said at least one of said golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag;

recording said use of said at least one of said golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag at a holed defined by a correlation of a present position of said golf data system unit as determined by said navigation receiver at about a time when said step of positioning said at least one of said golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag near a NFC antenna of said near field communication component was performed;

hitting a golf ball from said location on a golf course to another location on said golf course;

carrying said golf data system unit and at least one of said golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag to said another location on said golf course about where said golf ball landed;

calculating one or more golf game parameters or statistics based at least on which of said plurality of golf clubs was used and a distance between said location and said another location as determined by said navigation receiver;

saving said one or more golf game parameters or statistics to a non-volatile memory; and

repeating said steps from said step of positioning said at least one of said golf clubs having affixed thereto a tag near a NFC antenna to said step of saving said one or more golf game parameters or statistics to a non-volatile memory during the course of a golf game.

23. The method for automatically logging a use of each club of claim 19, wherein said step of providing a processor based golf data system unit including a navigation receiver and near field communication component comprises providing a processor based golf data system unit including a GPS navigation receiver and a RFID near field communication component and a plurality of golf clubs, each of said golf clubs having affixed thereto a RFID tag configured to be readable by said near field communication component of said golf data system unit.

24. The method for automatically logging a use of each club of claim 19, further comprising following the step of carrying said golf data system unit and before said step of positioning said at least one of said golf clubs, recommending a club to use for a given shot based on at least a selected one of: a displayed yardage and a previous shot data.

25. The method for automatically logging a use of each club of claim 19, further comprising following the step of carrying said golf data system unit and before said step of positioning said at least one of said golf clubs, recommending a club to use for a given shot based on a number of yards to a center of a green, and an average yards hit per club.