Abstract: A device for tracking a golfer's shot during a round of golf wherein the device comprises a housing composed of a polymer material, the housing having a main body and a projection body extending from the main body, the projection body having a length ranging from 1 mm to 5 mm and a diameter ranging from 20 mm to 25 mm, a battery, a microprocessor and an accelerometer. The accelerometer is preferably a multiple axis accelerometer. The circuit is preferably utilized with a device for shot tracking.

Abstract: A putting trainer has a long strip mounted to the head along a length of the putter head. The long strip has a pair of ends, namely a close end toward the player and a far end away from a player. The putting trainer has a ball path having a pair of columns of sensors, namely a column of right sensors and a column of left sensors. The pair of columns of sensors detect the motion of the long strip over the pair of columns of sensors. An audio output from a speaker provides feedback to the player. A golf trainer also includes a golf putter having a handle, a shaft connected to the handle, a hosel connected to the shaft and a putter head connected to the hosel.

Abstract: A swing performance analysis device (10) is described. The device (10) includes a sole single axis accelerometer securable to an entity (60, 70) to be swung to measure centripetal acceleration. The accelerometer is arranged to communicate with a processor (30). The processor (30) is arranged to accept one or more parameters on the swing to be analysed and measurement data on the swing from the accelerometer, the processor being operative to determine the radius of curvature of the swing calculate in dependence on the one or more parameters and to determine one or more attributes on the swing in dependence on the radius and measurement data.

Abstract: A golf system for training a golf player includes a golf putter designed to train the user in practicing an unconventional motion and a grid for guiding the motion of the golf putter. The golf putter includes a club head and a plurality of marking instruments such as styluses for marking the trajectory of the putter. The grid includes an enclosure, a recording device to record the trajectory of the golf putter, a plurality of guiding rails and an optional leveling device as well as an optional aiming device, thereby allowing the user to analyze his/her putting trajectory.

Abstract: A performance test apparatus includes a control unit, an image taking device, and a base having a table and a frame mounted to the table. The image taking device includes at least one image taker and at least one parallel light source. The at least one image taker is movably mounted to the frame and electrically connected to the control unit. The at least one parallel light source faces the table and is electrically connected to the control unit. The least one parallel light source includes a plurality of spot light sources. The control unit controls on/off of the at least one parallel light source, so that the at least one parallel light source flickers at a high frequency.

Abstract: The present invention relates to method and apparatus adapted for use with an assistive energy type golf club which is safe to use, inconspicuous, and able to release sufficient assistive energy at the optimum time during a golf swing to add prescribed incremental velocity to a golf ball.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for providing coaching, training, or equipment specification information to individual golfers based on data generated during their individual golf swings. Additionally, data hubs are described that provide information and services to individuals based on data collected for a community of multiple golfers. Such community data hub systems and methods may provide one or more of the following: (a) storage of scoring data, swing data, ball flight data, and/or equipment data for multiple golfers; (b) at least some level of individual access to the stored data for the community; and/or (c) electronic interaction between golfers within the community.

Abstract: A system and method for shot tracking is disclosed herein. The system preferably includes a golf club and a receiver. The golf club preferably includes an active radiofrequency component, a power source and a shock switch. When the golf club strikes a golf ball, the shock switch closes thereby powering the radiofrequency component which sends a signal to the receiver for automatically tracking a golfer's round of golf.

Abstract: Disclosed is a learning assessment method and device using a virtual tutor. The device comprises at least one action acquisition module, a virtual tutor synthesis module, and a learning assessment module. The method captures and analyzes a first and a second action-feature for a first and a second targets respectively, and constructs an intrinsic model of the second target based on a reference data of the second target. A virtual tutor is synthesized by applying the first action-feature to the intrinsic model such that the virtual tutor exhibits the intrinsic characteristics of the second target but performs a synthesized action-feature similar to the first action-feature. The method then assesses the difference between the synthesized action-feature and the second action-feature.

Abstract: A method for predicting a golfer's swing speed, wherein the method comprises determining that the golfer is addressing a golf ball to swing a golf club, monitoring a backswing, determining a transition time, monitoring a downswing, determining an impact time, transmitting data for the golfer's swing to a receiver for analysis and generating a golfer's swing speed using a length of a shaft of the golf club.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods are provided for measuring and analyzing movements of a body and for communicating information related to such body movements over a network. In certain embodiments, a system gathers biometric and biomechanical data relating to positions, orientations, and movements of various body parts of a user performed during sports activities, physical rehabilitation, or military or law enforcement activities. The biometric and biomechanical data can be communicated to a local and/or remote interface, which uses digital performance assessment tools to provide a performance evaluation to the user. The performance evaluation may include a graphical representation (e.g., a video), statistical information, and/or a comparison to another user and/or instructor. In some embodiments, the biometric and biomechanical data is communicated wirelessly to one or more devices including a processor, display, and/or data storage medium for further analysis, archiving, and data mining.

Abstract: A golf equipment fitting system that uses advanced technology to not only objectively identify the optimum equipment for the golfer, but to also identify and help correct swing flaws so that the golfer can achieve optimum performance on the golf course. Thus, in one embodiment, golf fitting includes collecting data related to the golfer's swing and determining if the golfer's swing technique should be modified based at least in part on the collected swing data. When it is determined that the golfer's swing technique should be modified, then providing swing instruction to the golfer. When, however, it is determined that the golfer's swing technique is fine, then collecting data related to how the golfer's swing launches a golf ball. Finally, golf equipment, e.g., golf clubs, can be specified based on the collected swing data and launch data.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a shot tracking device for attachment to a golf club. The shot tracking device comprises a housing, a battery, and a circuit board. A plurality of board components are disposed on the circuit board, the plurality of comprise a microprocessor, a resistor, a capacitor, a load switch and a RFID chip.

Abstract: A putting trainer has a long strip mounted to the head along a length of the putter head. The long strip has a pair of ends, namely a close end toward the player and a far end away from a player. The putting trainer has a ball path having a pair of columns of sensors, namely a column of right sensors and a column of left sensors. The pair of columns of sensors detect the motion of the long strip over the pair of columns of sensors. An audio output from a speaker provides feedback to the player. A golf trainer also includes a golf putter having a handle, a shaft connected to the handle, a hosel connected to the shaft and a putter head connected to the hosel.

Abstract: Apparatus and a method that enables an assistive energy type golf club to sense the approach of the club face toward a golf ball, and to trigger the release of the assistive energy at the optimum time to achieve the desired golf ball velocity and distance.

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: The present invention is a transponder for transmitting a RFID signal for shot tracking a golfer's round of golf while conserving battery power, comprising a battery in electrical communication with a resistor, the resistor in electrical communication with a capacitor and a load switch, which in turn is in electrical communication with a microprocessor comprising a radiofrequency transceiver.

Abstract: A putter training system includes a putter with putter head, an attachment secured adjacent the putter head, and a grid having sidewalls and a grid bottom. The putter head includes a bottom, a top and a face, where the top has at least one putter alignment line appearing thereon. The grid sidewalls are spaced apart by a distance larger than a length of the putter head. The grid bottom includes at least one grid alignment line cooperable with the at least one putter alignment line to facilitate alignment perception during a putting stroke. Additionally, the attachment is cooperable with the grid bottom to facilitate alignment feedback during the putting stroke.

Abstract: A multifunctional self-contained golf club that wirelessly integrates actual golf equipment with a computer providing critical feedback to improve all aspects of a player's golf game and also allows players to play an actual competitive real or visually simulated golf game with one or more players. Therefore, an individual player may opt to play solo or practice to improve basic golfing skills and techniques. The system includes smart golf clubs, a golf ball receptacle and a golf club motion sensing device, all containing circuits with contact sensors and or motion sensors coupled with signal processing and radio frequency transmitter circuitry to wirelessly communicate game status and performance parameters to a remote receiver and computer.

Abstract: A device for tracking a golfer's shot during a round of golf wherein the device comprises a housing, a battery having no more than 225 milliamp hours of power, a microprocessor and an accelerometer. The accelerometer is preferably a multiple axis accelerometer. The circuit is preferably utilized with a device for shot tracking.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for matching a test golfer with a particular golf club selected from a group of golf clubs having a plurality of styles. The method utilizes data set derived in an initial procedure in which the club style preferences for each of a large number of pre-test golfers is recorded and correlated with a set of performance parameters for the golf swings of such pre-test golfers. This data enables the pre-test golfers to be classified into subgroups, in which golfers within the same subgroup generally prefer the same club style and golfers in different subgroups generally prefer different club styles. After this data set has been established, the test golfer takes a golf swing with a golf club, while performance parameters for the swing are measured. Based on the measured performance parameters and the previously established data set, the test golfer is classified according to swing type, and the optimum golf-club is then selected from the plurality of styles of golf clubs.

Abstract: A device for tracking a golfer's shot during a round of golf wherein the device comprises a housing composed of a polymer material, the housing having a main body and a projection body extending from the main body, the projection body having a length ranging from 1 mm to 5 mm and a diameter ranging from 20 mm to 25 mm, a battery, a microprocessor and an accelerometer. The accelerometer is preferably a multiple axis accelerometer. The circuit is preferably utilized with a device for shot tracking.

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: A system and method for shot tracking disclosed herein. The system preferably includes a golf club, a receiver and a device. The golf club preferably includes an active RFID transponder, a power source, a switch and an accelerometer. Each golf shot is recorded on the device including the type of club and club swing speed.

Abstract: A system is provided for training a golf club stroke. The system includes a sensor, and a transmitter positioned in a spaced relation to the sensor, where the transmitter transmits a signal received by the. The system further includes a golf club including a head including a transparent medium region, where the head is positioned between the sensor and the transmitter. The signal passes through the transparent medium region.

Abstract: The present invention is a transponder for transmitting a RFID signal for shot tracking a golfer's round of golf while conserving battery power, comprising a battery in electrical communication with a resistor, the resistor in electrical communication with a capacitor and a load switch, which in turn is in electrical communication with a microprocessor comprising a radiofrequency transceiver.

Abstract: Position measuring system including a synchronization transducer used to synchronize a position signal evaluation with the position signal emission of a wireless synchronization transmission line between a position signal transmitter and a position signal evaluation unit, or visa versa, in order to transmit synchronization signals to a series controller of a position signal transmitter or to identifying means of the position signal evaluation unit.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods are provided for measuring and analyzing movements of a body and for communicating information related to such body movements over a network. In certain embodiments, a system gathers biometric and biomechanical data relating to positions, orientations, and movements of various body parts of a user performed during sports activities, physical rehabilitation, or military or law enforcement activities. The biometric and biomechanical data can be communicated to a local and/or remote interface, which uses digital performance assessment tools to provide a performance evaluation to the user. The performance evaluation may include a graphical representation (e.g., a video), statistical information, and/or a comparison to another user and/or instructor. In some embodiments, the biometric and biomechanical data is communicated wirelessly to one or more devices including a processor, display, and/or data storage medium for further analysis, archiving, and data mining.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods are provided for measuring and analyzing movements of a body and for communicating information related to such body movements over a network. In certain embodiments, a system gathers biometric and biomechanical data relating to positions, orientations, and movements of various body parts of a user performed during sports activities, physical rehabilitation, or military or law enforcement activities. The biometric and biomechanical data can be communicated to a local and/or remote interface, which uses digital performance assessment tools to provide a performance evaluation to the user. The performance evaluation may include a graphical representation (e.g., a video), statistical information, and/or a comparison to another user and/or instructor. In some embodiments, the biometric and biomechanical data is communicated wirelessly to one or more devices including a processor, display, and/or data storage medium for further analysis, archiving, and data mining.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for transmitting a signal while conserving battery power by utilizing a resistor in series with a power source prior to a capacitor, allowing that capacitor to be charged at a controlled rate and further comprising an automatic switch, allowing power to flow when desired.

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: 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 golf club is provided with a transponder that will transmit a coded signal when polled. The transmitter is small enough to fit into the golf club and does not need an external power supply. A data base associated with the coded signal is a depository of information related to the golf club.

Abstract: A golf club and accessory system utilizable during actual golf game play configured to obtain information related to a player's golf swing. This information may include information generated by a sensor(s) located on or within a golf club, which information is configured to be sent to a golf appliance, such as a golf glove, or other appliances used during play. These sensors provide data to facilitate assessing a player's swing, to determine a ball strike, determine swing velocity, identify the club used, or other such data obtainable during actual game play. One aspect of the invention provides for a golf appliance configured to display data relevant to game play and the player's swing obtained from a sensor(s) integral a golf club or integrated into the worn appliance. In another aspect of the invention the golf appliance(s) are configured to only accept input from specified sensor(s) or other appliances, encrypt data, and alert the user of any errors in operation.

Abstract: The present invention achieves technical advantages as a device and system utilizable during actual golf game play configured to obtain information related to a player's golf swing and game performance. This information may include information generated by a sensor(s) located on or within a golf club or worn by the golfer, which information is configured to be sent to a golf appliance, such as a golf glove, an automatic scoring and game statistics apparatus worn by the golfer, or a remotely located monitoring/display unit. These sensors provide data to facilitate assessing a player's swing, to determine a ball strike, determine swing velocity, identify the club used, and other data usable during actual game play. An additional aspect of the invention provides for a golf glove appliance and club grip system for detecting correct hand position as the golfer grips the club during a swing.

Abstract: Apparatus and a method that enables an assistive energy type golf club to sense the approach of the club face toward a golf ball, and to trigger the release of the assistive energy at the optimum time to achieve the desired golf ball velocity and distance.

Abstract: An apparatus for indicating the proper pendulum putting stroke to a golfer with An elongated display device that is positioned on a floor parallel to the stroke path of the practicing golfer, A display device containing multiple microcontroller module sections, each containing visual indicators spaced uniformly along the length of the sections, Each section being responsive to commands from a peripheral computing device to turn on a specific visual indicator, a peripheral computing device such as a personal computer running a computer program which calculates the putting stroke based on desired distance, green speed, and the golfer's personal rhythm rate in beats per minute, A peripheral computing device that after calculating the putting stroke time-position data, commands the display device to turn on and off consecutive visual indicators at a predefined time in such a way as to display a putting stroke path, and show the golfer the proper time-space dynamics to strike a golf ball a desired distance.

Abstract: A golf training device having a foot plate, an upright support extending from the foot plate, and a brace associated with the upright support, wherein a golfer may stand upon the foot plate with his buttocks against the brace to provide visual and tactical indication of a departure from the brace during the golfer's swing. In some embodiments of the training device, the brace may be resilient and/or the upright support may rotate. In such cases, the device may include a measurement device to measure the movement of the brace during the golfer's swing. The training device may also include an outrigger with elastic cord for attachment to a golfer to correct a “sway” or “slide” condition. The device may also include indicators to indicate a departure from correct positioning during a golf swing.

Abstract: A device and system utilizable during actual golf game play configured to obtain information related to a player's golf swing. This information may include information generated by a sensor(s) located on or within a golf club, which information is configured to be sent to a golf appliance, such as a golf glove, or other appliances used during play. These sensors provide data to facilitate assessing a player's swing, to determine a ball strike, determine swing velocity, identify the club used, or other such data obtainable during actual game play. One aspect of the invention allows for sensor(s) to be an integral part of a newly manufactured club. Another aspect of the invention allows for existing golf clubs to be retrofitted by an individual with a sensor(s). An additional aspect of the invention provides for power coupling across the sensor(s) golf appliance interface.

Abstract: A golf swing-measuring system including a computer (16) for capturing a colored moving image obtained by photographing a golfer (11) who swings by gripping a golf club (13). The computer (16) selects and extracts one or more images each showing a swing posture as check-point images such as an address image, a take-back shaft 8 o'clock image, a take-back shaft 9 o'clock image, a take-back unskillful arm horizontal image, a top image, a downswing unskillful arm horizontal image, a downswing shaft 9 o'clock image, an impact image, a follow-through shaft 3 o'clock image, and a finish image and extracts from a large number of still images constituting said color moving image. Thereafter the computer (16) obtains coordinates of positions of attention-focused points that operate in said check-point images when said golfer swings.

Abstract: A golf appliance, such as a glove and golf club grip system providing for club specific parametric signal transfer there between providing for the ability to automatically score golf rounds and analyze golf club swings in real-time. In addition, enhanced capability may also be achieved by integrating GPS parametric and golf course specific information. One aspect of the invention includes the capability to provide power between the golf glove and a golf club grip. Another aspect of the invention transfers data particular to a player's swing, a ball strike, and club information.

Abstract: An improved golf putter incorporating a weight management system that allows for adjustment of a golf club head weighting by incorporating an adjustable weight system wherein weights may be removed and replaced quickly and easily without requiring a specialized tool is disclosed. Weights received within weight ports formed in the heel and toe portions of the putter are maintained securely affixed within the club head body by plugs adapted for snap fit engagement with the club head. Unlike other putter weight adjustment systems disclosed in the art, the present invention does not require use of a special tool, such as a wrench, to remove and replace the weights. While the preferred golf club embodiment disclosed is a putter, the present invention contemplates incorporating any of the features and/or advancements disclosed herein into any golf club.

Abstract: A wireless detecting apparatus and a wireless detecting system are disclosed. The wireless detecting apparatus is applicable to a golf club. The apparatus includes an accelerometer, a terminal wireless module and a terminal microprocessor module. The accelerometer is used to generate an accelerating variable and output an electric signal. The terminal microprocessor module receives the electric signal, and generates a golf swing dynamic signal according to the electric signal, and outputs the golf swing dynamic signal to a wireless remote device via the terminal wireless module. The wireless remote device includes a remote wireless module, a remote displayer and a remote microprocessor module. The wireless remote device receives the golf swing dynamic signal via the remote wireless module and controls the remote displayer for displaying the golf swing dynamic signal. The wireless detecting apparatus and the wireless remote device form the wireless detecting system.

Abstract: A putter fitting method and system comprising a laser configured to deflect a laser beam off of a putter at address and strike a scoring map in such a way so as to indicate the any error's in a golfer's aim. The method and system may further comprise determining physical alterations to the golfer's putter in order to correct the aim errors. Such changes may be to the hosels (neck), hosel offset, hosel types, head shape, loft, line combination, length or the like. These changes may be suggested automatically, for example, by a computer program, based on the location of the laser strike, or by a fitting professional.

Abstract: A swing performance analysis device (10) is described. The device (10) includes a sole single axis accelerometer securable to an entity (60, 70) to be swung to measure centripetal acceleration. The accelerometer is arranged to communicate with a processor (30). The processor (30) is arranged to accept one or more parameters on the swing to be analysed and measurement data on the swing from the accelerometer, the processor being operative to determine the radius of curvature of the swing calculate in dependence on the one or more parameters and to determine one or more attributes on the swing in dependence on the radius and measurement data.

Abstract: A swing training apparatus is used with a golf club or other sporting club. The golf club has a light projector that sweeps a moving light beam along a path parallel to the face of the club. A light beam receiver provides two spaced apart linear rows of light detectors which are able to receive the light beam. An electrical circuit includes the detectors, a source of electrical power, a microprocessor, and an audio or visual alert circuit. With the receiver positioned so that the detectors are directed along a desired ball trajectory, the light beam sweeps across the detectors when the golf ball is driven, the information of club head velocity and face misalignment are then able to be calculated and the golfer alerted.

Abstract: A system is provided for training a golf club stroke. The system includes a sensor, and a transmitter positioned in a spaced relation to the sensor, where the transmitter transmits a signal received by the. The system further includes a golf club including a head including a transparent medium region, where the head is positioned between the sensor and the transmitter. The signal passes through the transparent medium region.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a golf swing trainer. The golf swing trainer includes a body member including a first surface; a first elongated array of light emitting elements arranged in a longitudinal direction on the first surface of the longitudinal body member; and a controller configured actuate the first elongated array of light emitting elements to generate a moving light pattern representing a position of a simulated golf club head during a simulated swing with at least one of the light emitting elements of the first elongated array.

Abstract: A measurement setup to determine hitting parameters of a golf club includes a group of reflectors with at least two strip-shaped reflectors with retroreflective surfaces applied to the golf club shaft. The group of reflectors is attached to the club shaft with a detachable, yet tight clamp-connection. At least three retroreflective areas are arranged in a determined geometry at the club shaft and/or at the group of reflectors. At least one first reflective light barrier sends its beam at a right angle to the ideal swing path of the club head near the tee and/or the golf ball at the group of reflectors. During the penetration of the beam the three strip-shaped retroreflective surfaces elicit temporally staggered pulse-shaped signals that the receiver of the first reflective light barrier receives and which it transmits to the data acquisition device. A calibration setup is also provided.

Abstract: A golf club face position detection system incorporates a light beam reflected off the face of a golf club as the face strikes the ball which activates a circuit to capture the image of the reflected light beam against a target area thereby indicating horizontal and vertical angulation of the face at or near the time of ball contact.