CA2515319A1 - Integrated putting training and green speed measuring apparatus and method of use thereof - Google Patents
Integrated putting training and green speed measuring apparatus and method of use thereof Download PDFInfo
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- CA2515319A1 CA2515319A1 CA002515319A CA2515319A CA2515319A1 CA 2515319 A1 CA2515319 A1 CA 2515319A1 CA 002515319 A CA002515319 A CA 002515319A CA 2515319 A CA2515319 A CA 2515319A CA 2515319 A1 CA2515319 A1 CA 2515319A1
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- mode
- golf ball
- putt
- meter
- green
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
- A63B69/36—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf
- A63B69/3676—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf for putting
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B24/00—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
- A63B24/0021—Tracking a path or terminating locations
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
- A63B69/36—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf
- A63B69/3658—Means associated with the ball for indicating or measuring, e.g. speed, direction
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B24/00—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
- A63B24/0021—Tracking a path or terminating locations
- A63B2024/0028—Tracking the path of an object, e.g. a ball inside a soccer pitch
- A63B2024/0034—Tracking the path of an object, e.g. a ball inside a soccer pitch during flight
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B24/00—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
- A63B24/0021—Tracking a path or terminating locations
- A63B2024/0037—Tracking a path or terminating locations on a target surface or at impact on the ground
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
- A63B2220/30—Speed
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
- A63B2220/80—Special sensors, transducers or devices therefor
- A63B2220/805—Optical or opto-electronic sensors
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
- A63B69/36—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf
- A63B69/3614—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf using electro-magnetic, magnetic or ultrasonic radiation emitted, reflected or interrupted by the golf club
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- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Biophysics (AREA)
- Length Measuring Devices By Optical Means (AREA)
Abstract
An integrated stimp-putt meter for use with a golf ball, putter and distance measure, for assessing golf ball speed along a given path is provided. The stimp-putt meter comprises:
at least two transmitter/receiver pairs, for transmission and reception of an electromagnetic beam; a microcontroller in electronic communication with the transmitter/receiver pairs; a display in electronic communication with the microcontroller; and a housing. The transmitter/receiver pairs are located along a given path, and the transmitter and receiver of each pair are separated by a predetermined distance sufficient for a golf ball to pass through and positioned such that each beam is interrupted by the passage of a golf ball.
at least two transmitter/receiver pairs, for transmission and reception of an electromagnetic beam; a microcontroller in electronic communication with the transmitter/receiver pairs; a display in electronic communication with the microcontroller; and a housing. The transmitter/receiver pairs are located along a given path, and the transmitter and receiver of each pair are separated by a predetermined distance sufficient for a golf ball to pass through and positioned such that each beam is interrupted by the passage of a golf ball.
Description
Integrated putting training and green speed measuring apparatus and method of use thereof Field:
The invention relates to an apparatus for golfers to practice putting and to assess the speed of a green. More specifically, the invention relates to an apparatus and method of using the apparatus that allows golfers to practice control of putting distance on a variety of surfaces as well as allowing for the determination of the speed of a green.
Background:
In order to improve putting performance, golfers need to improve both aim and distance control. The distance a ball travels is, of course, controlled both by the golfer, and the green speed. When practicing indoors golfers will normally be putting on surfaces that have completely different speeds than found on golf greens. The golfer therefore cannot accurately practice distance control on such surfaces.
Several putting training devices have been patented that relate to practicing distance control. Some assess the movement of the putter club head in the absence of a target.
For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,788,583 discloses the use of optical sensors to determine the speed of the putter club head. This value is then used to determine the distance a ball would have rolled had it been struck. Similarly, U.S Pat. No. 4,180,270 uses sensors to determine the speed and orientation of the putter club head during the stroke.
As putter club heads come in a range of different masses a given club head speed does not translate directly to a given ball roll distance.
Other devices have been developed that are supposed to indicate the distance that a golf ball would roll on a real green. U.S. Pat. No. 6,146,283 discloses a device where the golfer strikes a putting target that is free to rotate about an axis. The force that the putter strikes the target is measured and this value along with the input stimpmeter reading is used to calculate the distance that the ball would have traveled. While this device can readily be used in locations such as an office or at home, and is readily portable, it suffers from the fact that is does not provide the look and feel obtained with putting a real golf ball. Conseduently, whereas a ball can bounce and spin differently when struck by a club head, for example, the device of U. S. Pat. No. 6,146,283 does not account for this.
Both the green speed and the interaction between the club and the ball are taken into consideration in U.S. Pat. No. 5,586,941. Disclosed is the use of an inclined track of length 6 to 7 feet that can be adjusted for height to simulate various golf distances.
Further, the surface of the track can be altered to simulate putting on a dry and a wet green. The golfer putts a golf ball down the track and determines the distance that the ball travels. This device is relatively bulky and is not very accurate in that it does not allow for the range of various green speeds found on real golf courses.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,872,687 uses photogates to determine the ball speed and allows the user to input stimpmeter reading. However, as the device has the user putting the ball from an attached flexible surface and the ball is stopped at the back of the unit, the device cannot be used by the golfer to determine green speed on various greens of interest and then practice using those settings.
Knowledge of the green speed is crucial with any training device if golfers are to be able to practice distance control when putting. The stimpmeter, invented in 1937 by Mr.
Edward Stimpson, is the standard instrument used in determining green speed The stimpmeter is a long V-shaped aluminum bar with a notch at one end. The bar is laid flat on the ground with a ball placed in the notch. The stimpmeter is then raised and when it reaches an angle of 20° the ball rolls out of the notch and down the trough and onto the putting surface. The distance the ball rolls is referred to as the stimpmeter reading of the green. This value can range from 5 feet for a very slow green to 12 feet for a very fast green.
The invention relates to an apparatus for golfers to practice putting and to assess the speed of a green. More specifically, the invention relates to an apparatus and method of using the apparatus that allows golfers to practice control of putting distance on a variety of surfaces as well as allowing for the determination of the speed of a green.
Background:
In order to improve putting performance, golfers need to improve both aim and distance control. The distance a ball travels is, of course, controlled both by the golfer, and the green speed. When practicing indoors golfers will normally be putting on surfaces that have completely different speeds than found on golf greens. The golfer therefore cannot accurately practice distance control on such surfaces.
Several putting training devices have been patented that relate to practicing distance control. Some assess the movement of the putter club head in the absence of a target.
For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,788,583 discloses the use of optical sensors to determine the speed of the putter club head. This value is then used to determine the distance a ball would have rolled had it been struck. Similarly, U.S Pat. No. 4,180,270 uses sensors to determine the speed and orientation of the putter club head during the stroke.
As putter club heads come in a range of different masses a given club head speed does not translate directly to a given ball roll distance.
Other devices have been developed that are supposed to indicate the distance that a golf ball would roll on a real green. U.S. Pat. No. 6,146,283 discloses a device where the golfer strikes a putting target that is free to rotate about an axis. The force that the putter strikes the target is measured and this value along with the input stimpmeter reading is used to calculate the distance that the ball would have traveled. While this device can readily be used in locations such as an office or at home, and is readily portable, it suffers from the fact that is does not provide the look and feel obtained with putting a real golf ball. Conseduently, whereas a ball can bounce and spin differently when struck by a club head, for example, the device of U. S. Pat. No. 6,146,283 does not account for this.
Both the green speed and the interaction between the club and the ball are taken into consideration in U.S. Pat. No. 5,586,941. Disclosed is the use of an inclined track of length 6 to 7 feet that can be adjusted for height to simulate various golf distances.
Further, the surface of the track can be altered to simulate putting on a dry and a wet green. The golfer putts a golf ball down the track and determines the distance that the ball travels. This device is relatively bulky and is not very accurate in that it does not allow for the range of various green speeds found on real golf courses.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,872,687 uses photogates to determine the ball speed and allows the user to input stimpmeter reading. However, as the device has the user putting the ball from an attached flexible surface and the ball is stopped at the back of the unit, the device cannot be used by the golfer to determine green speed on various greens of interest and then practice using those settings.
Knowledge of the green speed is crucial with any training device if golfers are to be able to practice distance control when putting. The stimpmeter, invented in 1937 by Mr.
Edward Stimpson, is the standard instrument used in determining green speed The stimpmeter is a long V-shaped aluminum bar with a notch at one end. The bar is laid flat on the ground with a ball placed in the notch. The stimpmeter is then raised and when it reaches an angle of 20° the ball rolls out of the notch and down the trough and onto the putting surface. The distance the ball rolls is referred to as the stimpmeter reading of the green. This value can range from 5 feet for a very slow green to 12 feet for a very fast green.
The design of the stimpmeter often produces a number of inaccuracies in green-speed measurement. The release height of a golf ball placed in the notch in the V-shaped channel depends upon the dimple configuration and exact placement position of the golf ball relative to the edge of the notch. This causes errors in the initial speed of release of balls onto the green surface, which in turn, cause direct errors in green-speed measurements. Operator error, such as lifting or raising the bar in a jerky motion or not holding the bar steady as the ball rolls during a test may also cause a relatively large variation in roll distance. Further, because balls impact the green surface at the lower end of the stimpmeter at a 20-degree angle, they may bounce, thereby creating further variables in roll distance.
A number of approaches have been developed to overcome the deficiencies in the stimpmeter. For example, U.S. Patent No. 6749,527 discloses a collapsible, portable green-speed meter that differs from the original stimpmeter in that it is more stable. The angle is about 30 degrees incline for the ball route while the original stimpmeter is 20 degrees. This apparatus would be fraught with all the deficiencies noted above, with the exception that it is portable and arguably more stable.
The green-speed measuring apparatus of U.S. Patent No. 6,860,139 includes a three-track ramp for rolling three golf balls along parallel, but distinct tracks over the surface of a green being tested. The ramp is raised above the putting surface to a precise 20.2-degree angle relative to the local horizontal using a preconfigured angled level-vial and an adjustable-length leg structure that mechanically supports the upper start end of the ramp at a fixed position. The local horizontal is defined as a plane perpendicular to the local gravitational vertical vector. Each golf ball sits in a radiused rolling groove against a radiused ball stop and is held in a pre-release starting position by a release trigger holding plate, which is also radiused to hold golf balls in a repeatable position, regardless of ball surface dimple location or size. The ramp has three ball-radiused rolling grooves that reduce golf ball chatter when a dimpled surface ball rolls down the grooves.
The end of the ramp is curved in order to release golf balls horizontally so as to be essentially parallel to the putting green surface thereby minimizing or totally eliminating ball bounce as the ball impacts the surface of the green. This apparatus does overcome some of the deficiencies noted in the original stimpmeter, but it is relatively bulky.
Regardless of the stimpmeter design, stimpmeters only provide information on green speed. They are not used to determine putting performance.
There is a need for a compact integrated device that will allow golfers to practice control of putting distance on any surface and that can accurately assess green speed.
It is an object of the present invention to overcome the deficiencies in the prior art Summary:
In one embodiment of the invention, an integrated sump-putt meter for use with a golf ball, putter and distance measure, for assessing golf ball speed along a given path is provided. The sump-putt meter comprises: at least two transmitter/receiver pairs, for transmission and reception of an electromagnetic beam; a microcontroller in electronic communication with the transmitter/receiver pairs; a display in electronic communication with the microcontroller; and a housing. The transmitter/receiver pairs are located along a given path, and the transmitter and receiver of each pair are separated by a predetermined distance sufficient for a golf ball to pass through and positioned such that the beam is interrupted by the passage of a golf ball.
In another aspect of the invention, the transmitter/receiver pairs are photo transmitters/sensors.
In another aspect of the invention, the microcontroller comprises a calculator to calculate golf ball speed and projected ball roll distance.
In another aspect of the invention, the housing comprises a top and two sides.
In another aspect of the invention, the transmitter/receiver pairs are approximately 6 inches apart along a given path.
In another aspect of the invention, the integrated stimp-putt meter further comprises a set of switches, and the switches in communication with the microcontroller and the display, to permit switching from one mode to another mode.
In another aspect of the invention, the mode is a calculation and display of a projected ball roll distance mode.
In another aspect of the invention, the mode is a green speed selection mode, to permit preselection of a stimpmeter reading of a green.
In another aspect of the invention, the mode is a floor speed selection mode, to permit preselection of a stimpmeter reading of a surface.
In another aspect of the invention, the mode is a preselected hole distance mode In another embodiment of the invention, a method of determining a stimpmeter reading of a given surface is provided. The method comprises:
propelling a golf ball through a series of at least two pairs of electromagnetic radiation transmitter/receivers aligned along a given path;
calculating the speed of the golf ball based on the difference in time between the interruption of one beam and the interruption of at least one other beam;
calculating a projected ball roll distance;
measuring an actual ball roll distance;
calculating a stimpmeter reading for the given surface; and displaying the stimpmeter reading for the given surface.
In another aspect of the method of the invention, the transmitter/receiver pairs are photo transmitters/sensors.
In another aspect of the method of the invention, the transmitter/receiver pairs are approximately 6 inches apart along a given path.
In another aspect, the method further comprises switching a microcontroller from one mode to another mode.
In another aspect of the method of the invention, the mode is a calculation and display of projected ball roll distance mode In another aspect of the method of the invention, the mode is a green speed selection mode, to permit preselection of a stimpmeter reading of a green.
In another aspect of the method of the invention, the mode is a floor speed selection mode, to permit preselection of a stimpmeter reading of a surface.
In another aspect of the method of the invention, the mode is a preselected hole distance mode.
In another embodiment of the invention, a method of practicing putting for a selected green is provided. The method comprises:
propelling a golf ball through a series of at least two pairs of electromagnetic radiation transmitter/receivers aligned along a given path on a selected green;
measuring the speed of the golf ball based on the difference in time between the interruption of one beam and the interruption of at least one other beam;
calculating a projected ball roll distance;
measuring an actual ball roll distance;
calculating a stimpmeter reading for the selected green;
displaying the stimpmeter reading for the selected green;
moving to a selected surface;
putting a golf ball through a series of at least two pairs of electromagnetic radiation transmitter/receivers aligned along a given path on the selected surface;
measuring the speed of the golf ball based on the difference in time between the interruption of one beam and the interruption of at least one other beam;
calculating a first stimpmeter reading for the selected surface;
displaying the stimpmeter reading for the selected surface;
putting a golf ball through the series of at least two pairs of electromagnetic radiation transmitter/receivers aligned along a given path on the selected surface;
measuring the speed of the golf ball based on the difference in time between the interruption of one beam and the interruption of at least one other beam;
calculating a second stimpmeter reading for the selected surface;
displaying the stimpmeter reading for the selected surface;
comparing the stimpmeter reading for the selected surface with the stimpmeter reading for the selected green;
determining the distance that the golf ball would have traveled on the selected green; and displaying the distance that the golf ball would have traveled on the selected green.
In another aspect of the method of the invention, an integrated sump-putt meter of an embodiment of the invention is employed.
Figures:
Figure 1 is a plan view of the sump-putt meter in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 2 is a side view of the sump-putt meter of Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a face view of the stimp-putt meter of Figure 1.
Figure 4 is a top view of the sump-putt meter of Figure 1.
Description:
A stimp-putt meter, generally referred to as 12 is shown in Figure 1. The sump-putt meter 12 has two open-bottomed sides 14, and a top 15. Two pairs of photo-sensor transmitter/receivers, a first transmitter/receiver pairl6 and a second transmitter/receiver pairl8 are positioned 6 inches apart on the sides 14 and at a level that allows a passing ball to intercept the beams. The user stands a predetermined distance, for example 3 feet, in front of the sump-putt meter 12 and putts a golf ball between the open-bottom sides 14 of the stimp-putt meter 12. The output voltage of the two transmitter/receivers 16, 18 is fed to a microcontroller 20. The microcontroller 20 monitors the voltage and when it changes by a set level at the first transmitter/receiver 16 it measures the time until the voltage changes by a set level at the second transmitter/receiver 18. From this time delay the microcontroller 20 calculates the ball speed and determines the distance that the ball would have rolled on a real green of given stimpmeter setting. This value is then visually displayed on a display module 22.
The stimp-putt meter 12 can be used on any surface. As the ball rolls through the stimp-putt meter 12 users are allowed to use any target they wish or simply place a towel or cushion in the way to stop the ball. The stimp-putt meter 12 will also allow the user to simultaneously use one of the many track devices on the market that train the putting stroke.
The sump-putt meter 12 has 5 modes. The first or calibration mode allows a golfer to determine the stimpmeter reading of a green or a surface such as a floor. The golfer stands a set distance in front of the sump-putt meter 12 and putts the ball through the sump-putt meter 12. The actual distance that the ball travels is measured then the user finds the displayed distance that is closest to the actual distance by pressing an up button 24 or a down button 26. The user then switches, by means of a mode button 28, to floor mode and the stimpmeter reading of the surface is displayed. Not only does this allow the user to assess green speed, it allows the golfer to calibrate the sump-putt meter 12 accurately to match the local golf course greens, when used on a floor in the home or at the office. The sump-putt meter 12 allows the golfer to practice putts of up to many feet in length over a range of green speeds.
The second or green mode allows the golfer to input by means of an up button 24 or a down button 26 the speed of the green that they want to practice on. The green speed is input as a stimpmeter reading, the traditional way of specifying green speed.
For a typical golf course the stimpmeter reading of the greens range from 5 ft to 12 ft with values normally given to the nearest '/2 foot.
The third or floor mode is for the user to input by means of an up button 24 or a down button 26 the speed of the floor the stimp-putt meter 12 is being used on.
Again this is input as a stimpmeter reading. This compensates for the distance that the ball travels before passing through the stimp-putt meter 12.
After the green speed and floor setting have been input the user switches the stimp-putt meter 12 to the fourth or distance mode. The golfer then stands the set distance in front of the stimp-putt meter 12 and putts the ball through. The distance the ball would have traveled on a green of the set stimpmeter reading is then displayed. With the stimp-putt meter 12 a golfer can practice putts over a wide range of distances, and at least up to 99' in length over a wide range of green speeds.
The user can use the stimp-putt meter 12 in basic distance mode and practice putts of any distance or can select the fifth or challenge mode. In this mode the stimp-putt meter 12 displays a series of hole distances and the number of successive putts required. The user then tries to putt the required number of successive putts the given distance within a certain tolerance. If successful the device subsequently displays different hole distances and the user then attempts these putts. The user can change the number of successive putts required by means of an up button 24 or a down button 26.
A number of approaches have been developed to overcome the deficiencies in the stimpmeter. For example, U.S. Patent No. 6749,527 discloses a collapsible, portable green-speed meter that differs from the original stimpmeter in that it is more stable. The angle is about 30 degrees incline for the ball route while the original stimpmeter is 20 degrees. This apparatus would be fraught with all the deficiencies noted above, with the exception that it is portable and arguably more stable.
The green-speed measuring apparatus of U.S. Patent No. 6,860,139 includes a three-track ramp for rolling three golf balls along parallel, but distinct tracks over the surface of a green being tested. The ramp is raised above the putting surface to a precise 20.2-degree angle relative to the local horizontal using a preconfigured angled level-vial and an adjustable-length leg structure that mechanically supports the upper start end of the ramp at a fixed position. The local horizontal is defined as a plane perpendicular to the local gravitational vertical vector. Each golf ball sits in a radiused rolling groove against a radiused ball stop and is held in a pre-release starting position by a release trigger holding plate, which is also radiused to hold golf balls in a repeatable position, regardless of ball surface dimple location or size. The ramp has three ball-radiused rolling grooves that reduce golf ball chatter when a dimpled surface ball rolls down the grooves.
The end of the ramp is curved in order to release golf balls horizontally so as to be essentially parallel to the putting green surface thereby minimizing or totally eliminating ball bounce as the ball impacts the surface of the green. This apparatus does overcome some of the deficiencies noted in the original stimpmeter, but it is relatively bulky.
Regardless of the stimpmeter design, stimpmeters only provide information on green speed. They are not used to determine putting performance.
There is a need for a compact integrated device that will allow golfers to practice control of putting distance on any surface and that can accurately assess green speed.
It is an object of the present invention to overcome the deficiencies in the prior art Summary:
In one embodiment of the invention, an integrated sump-putt meter for use with a golf ball, putter and distance measure, for assessing golf ball speed along a given path is provided. The sump-putt meter comprises: at least two transmitter/receiver pairs, for transmission and reception of an electromagnetic beam; a microcontroller in electronic communication with the transmitter/receiver pairs; a display in electronic communication with the microcontroller; and a housing. The transmitter/receiver pairs are located along a given path, and the transmitter and receiver of each pair are separated by a predetermined distance sufficient for a golf ball to pass through and positioned such that the beam is interrupted by the passage of a golf ball.
In another aspect of the invention, the transmitter/receiver pairs are photo transmitters/sensors.
In another aspect of the invention, the microcontroller comprises a calculator to calculate golf ball speed and projected ball roll distance.
In another aspect of the invention, the housing comprises a top and two sides.
In another aspect of the invention, the transmitter/receiver pairs are approximately 6 inches apart along a given path.
In another aspect of the invention, the integrated stimp-putt meter further comprises a set of switches, and the switches in communication with the microcontroller and the display, to permit switching from one mode to another mode.
In another aspect of the invention, the mode is a calculation and display of a projected ball roll distance mode.
In another aspect of the invention, the mode is a green speed selection mode, to permit preselection of a stimpmeter reading of a green.
In another aspect of the invention, the mode is a floor speed selection mode, to permit preselection of a stimpmeter reading of a surface.
In another aspect of the invention, the mode is a preselected hole distance mode In another embodiment of the invention, a method of determining a stimpmeter reading of a given surface is provided. The method comprises:
propelling a golf ball through a series of at least two pairs of electromagnetic radiation transmitter/receivers aligned along a given path;
calculating the speed of the golf ball based on the difference in time between the interruption of one beam and the interruption of at least one other beam;
calculating a projected ball roll distance;
measuring an actual ball roll distance;
calculating a stimpmeter reading for the given surface; and displaying the stimpmeter reading for the given surface.
In another aspect of the method of the invention, the transmitter/receiver pairs are photo transmitters/sensors.
In another aspect of the method of the invention, the transmitter/receiver pairs are approximately 6 inches apart along a given path.
In another aspect, the method further comprises switching a microcontroller from one mode to another mode.
In another aspect of the method of the invention, the mode is a calculation and display of projected ball roll distance mode In another aspect of the method of the invention, the mode is a green speed selection mode, to permit preselection of a stimpmeter reading of a green.
In another aspect of the method of the invention, the mode is a floor speed selection mode, to permit preselection of a stimpmeter reading of a surface.
In another aspect of the method of the invention, the mode is a preselected hole distance mode.
In another embodiment of the invention, a method of practicing putting for a selected green is provided. The method comprises:
propelling a golf ball through a series of at least two pairs of electromagnetic radiation transmitter/receivers aligned along a given path on a selected green;
measuring the speed of the golf ball based on the difference in time between the interruption of one beam and the interruption of at least one other beam;
calculating a projected ball roll distance;
measuring an actual ball roll distance;
calculating a stimpmeter reading for the selected green;
displaying the stimpmeter reading for the selected green;
moving to a selected surface;
putting a golf ball through a series of at least two pairs of electromagnetic radiation transmitter/receivers aligned along a given path on the selected surface;
measuring the speed of the golf ball based on the difference in time between the interruption of one beam and the interruption of at least one other beam;
calculating a first stimpmeter reading for the selected surface;
displaying the stimpmeter reading for the selected surface;
putting a golf ball through the series of at least two pairs of electromagnetic radiation transmitter/receivers aligned along a given path on the selected surface;
measuring the speed of the golf ball based on the difference in time between the interruption of one beam and the interruption of at least one other beam;
calculating a second stimpmeter reading for the selected surface;
displaying the stimpmeter reading for the selected surface;
comparing the stimpmeter reading for the selected surface with the stimpmeter reading for the selected green;
determining the distance that the golf ball would have traveled on the selected green; and displaying the distance that the golf ball would have traveled on the selected green.
In another aspect of the method of the invention, an integrated sump-putt meter of an embodiment of the invention is employed.
Figures:
Figure 1 is a plan view of the sump-putt meter in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 2 is a side view of the sump-putt meter of Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a face view of the stimp-putt meter of Figure 1.
Figure 4 is a top view of the sump-putt meter of Figure 1.
Description:
A stimp-putt meter, generally referred to as 12 is shown in Figure 1. The sump-putt meter 12 has two open-bottomed sides 14, and a top 15. Two pairs of photo-sensor transmitter/receivers, a first transmitter/receiver pairl6 and a second transmitter/receiver pairl8 are positioned 6 inches apart on the sides 14 and at a level that allows a passing ball to intercept the beams. The user stands a predetermined distance, for example 3 feet, in front of the sump-putt meter 12 and putts a golf ball between the open-bottom sides 14 of the stimp-putt meter 12. The output voltage of the two transmitter/receivers 16, 18 is fed to a microcontroller 20. The microcontroller 20 monitors the voltage and when it changes by a set level at the first transmitter/receiver 16 it measures the time until the voltage changes by a set level at the second transmitter/receiver 18. From this time delay the microcontroller 20 calculates the ball speed and determines the distance that the ball would have rolled on a real green of given stimpmeter setting. This value is then visually displayed on a display module 22.
The stimp-putt meter 12 can be used on any surface. As the ball rolls through the stimp-putt meter 12 users are allowed to use any target they wish or simply place a towel or cushion in the way to stop the ball. The stimp-putt meter 12 will also allow the user to simultaneously use one of the many track devices on the market that train the putting stroke.
The sump-putt meter 12 has 5 modes. The first or calibration mode allows a golfer to determine the stimpmeter reading of a green or a surface such as a floor. The golfer stands a set distance in front of the sump-putt meter 12 and putts the ball through the sump-putt meter 12. The actual distance that the ball travels is measured then the user finds the displayed distance that is closest to the actual distance by pressing an up button 24 or a down button 26. The user then switches, by means of a mode button 28, to floor mode and the stimpmeter reading of the surface is displayed. Not only does this allow the user to assess green speed, it allows the golfer to calibrate the sump-putt meter 12 accurately to match the local golf course greens, when used on a floor in the home or at the office. The sump-putt meter 12 allows the golfer to practice putts of up to many feet in length over a range of green speeds.
The second or green mode allows the golfer to input by means of an up button 24 or a down button 26 the speed of the green that they want to practice on. The green speed is input as a stimpmeter reading, the traditional way of specifying green speed.
For a typical golf course the stimpmeter reading of the greens range from 5 ft to 12 ft with values normally given to the nearest '/2 foot.
The third or floor mode is for the user to input by means of an up button 24 or a down button 26 the speed of the floor the stimp-putt meter 12 is being used on.
Again this is input as a stimpmeter reading. This compensates for the distance that the ball travels before passing through the stimp-putt meter 12.
After the green speed and floor setting have been input the user switches the stimp-putt meter 12 to the fourth or distance mode. The golfer then stands the set distance in front of the stimp-putt meter 12 and putts the ball through. The distance the ball would have traveled on a green of the set stimpmeter reading is then displayed. With the stimp-putt meter 12 a golfer can practice putts over a wide range of distances, and at least up to 99' in length over a wide range of green speeds.
The user can use the stimp-putt meter 12 in basic distance mode and practice putts of any distance or can select the fifth or challenge mode. In this mode the stimp-putt meter 12 displays a series of hole distances and the number of successive putts required. The user then tries to putt the required number of successive putts the given distance within a certain tolerance. If successful the device subsequently displays different hole distances and the user then attempts these putts. The user can change the number of successive putts required by means of an up button 24 or a down button 26.
Claims (20)
1. An integrated stimp-putt meter for use with a golf ball, putter and distance measure, for assessing golf ball speed along a given path, said stimp-putt meter comprising:
at least two transmitter/receiver pairs, for transmission and reception of an electromagnetic beam, said pairs located along a given path, the transmitter and receiver of each pair separated by a predetermined distance sufficient for a golf ball to pass through and positioned such that said beam is interrupted by the passage of a golf ball;
a microcontroller in electronic communication with said transmitter/receiver pairs;
a display in electronic communication with said microcontroller; and a housing.
at least two transmitter/receiver pairs, for transmission and reception of an electromagnetic beam, said pairs located along a given path, the transmitter and receiver of each pair separated by a predetermined distance sufficient for a golf ball to pass through and positioned such that said beam is interrupted by the passage of a golf ball;
a microcontroller in electronic communication with said transmitter/receiver pairs;
a display in electronic communication with said microcontroller; and a housing.
2. The integrated stimp-putt meter of claim 1 wherein said transmitter/receiver pairs are photo transmitters/sensors.
3. The integrated stimp-putt meter of claim 2 wherein said microcontroller comprises a calculator to calculate golf ball speed and projected ball roll distance.
4. The integrated stimp-putt meter of claim 3 wherein said housing comprises a top and two sides.
5. The integrated stimp-putt meter of claim 4 wherein said transmitter/receiver pairs are approximately 6 inches apart along a given path.
6. The integrated stimp-putt meter of claim 5 further comprising a set of switches, said switches in communication with said microcontroller and said display, to permit switching from one mode to another mode.
7. The integrated stimp-putt meter of claim 6 wherein said mode is a calculation and display of a projected ball roll distance mode
8. The integrated stimp-putt meter of claim 7, wherein said mode is a green speed selection mode, to permit preselection of a stimpmeter reading of a green.
9. The integrated stimp-putt meter of claim 7, wherein said mode is a floor speed selection mode, to permit preselection of a stimpmeter reading of a surface.
10. The integrated stimp-putt meter of claim 7, wherein said mode is a preselected hole distance mode
11. A method of determining a stimpmeter reading of a given surface, said method comprising:
propelling a golf ball through a series of at least two pairs of electromagnetic radiation transmitter/receivers aligned along a given path;
calculating the speed of said golf ball based on the difference in time between the interruption of one beam and the interruption of at least one other beam;
calculating a projected ball roll distance;
measuring an actual ball roll distance;
calculating a stimpmeter reading for the given surface; and displaying said stimpmeter reading for the given surface.
propelling a golf ball through a series of at least two pairs of electromagnetic radiation transmitter/receivers aligned along a given path;
calculating the speed of said golf ball based on the difference in time between the interruption of one beam and the interruption of at least one other beam;
calculating a projected ball roll distance;
measuring an actual ball roll distance;
calculating a stimpmeter reading for the given surface; and displaying said stimpmeter reading for the given surface.
12. The method of claim 11 wherein said transmitter/receiver pairs are photo transmitters/sensors.
13. The method of claim12 wherein said transmitter/receiver pairs are approximately 6 inches apart along a given path.
14. The method of claim 12 further comprising switching a microcontroller from one mode to another mode.
15. The method of claim 14 wherein said mode is a calculation and display of projected ball roll distance mode.
16. The method of claim 14 wherein said mode is a green speed selection mode, to permit preselection of a stimpmeter reading of a green.
17. The method of claim 14 wherein said mode is a floor speed selection mode, to permit preselection of a stimpmeter reading of a surface.
18. The method of claim 14 wherein said mode is a preselected hole distance mode.
19. A method of practicing putting for a selected green, said method comprising:
propelling a golf ball through a series of at least two pairs of electromagnetic radiation transmitter/receivers aligned along a given path on a selected green;
measuring the speed of said golf ball based on the difference in time between the interruption of one beam and the interruption of at least one other beam;
calculating a projected ball roll distance;
measuring an actual ball roll distance;
calculating a stimpmeter reading for the selected green;
displaying said stimpmeter reading for the selected green;
moving to a selected surface;
putting a golf ball through a series of at least two pairs of electromagnetic radiation transmitter/receivers aligned along a given path on the selected surface;
measuring the speed of the golf ball based on the difference in time between the interruption of one beam and the interruption of at least one other beam;
calculating a first stimpmeter reading for the selected surface;
displaying the stimpmeter reading for the selected surface;
putting a golf ball through the series of at least two pairs of electromagnetic radiation transmitter/receivers aligned along a given path on the selected surface;
measuring the speed of the golf ball based on the difference in time between the interruption of one beam and the interruption of at least one other beam;
calculating a second stimpmeter reading for the selected surface;
displaying the stimpmeter reading for the selected surface;
comparing the stimpmeter reading for the selected surface with the stimpmeter reading for the selected green;
determining the distance that the golf ball would have traveled on the selected green; and displaying the distance that the golf ball would have traveled on the selected green.
propelling a golf ball through a series of at least two pairs of electromagnetic radiation transmitter/receivers aligned along a given path on a selected green;
measuring the speed of said golf ball based on the difference in time between the interruption of one beam and the interruption of at least one other beam;
calculating a projected ball roll distance;
measuring an actual ball roll distance;
calculating a stimpmeter reading for the selected green;
displaying said stimpmeter reading for the selected green;
moving to a selected surface;
putting a golf ball through a series of at least two pairs of electromagnetic radiation transmitter/receivers aligned along a given path on the selected surface;
measuring the speed of the golf ball based on the difference in time between the interruption of one beam and the interruption of at least one other beam;
calculating a first stimpmeter reading for the selected surface;
displaying the stimpmeter reading for the selected surface;
putting a golf ball through the series of at least two pairs of electromagnetic radiation transmitter/receivers aligned along a given path on the selected surface;
measuring the speed of the golf ball based on the difference in time between the interruption of one beam and the interruption of at least one other beam;
calculating a second stimpmeter reading for the selected surface;
displaying the stimpmeter reading for the selected surface;
comparing the stimpmeter reading for the selected surface with the stimpmeter reading for the selected green;
determining the distance that the golf ball would have traveled on the selected green; and displaying the distance that the golf ball would have traveled on the selected green.
20. The method of claim 16 wherein the integrated stimp-putt meter of claim 1 is employed.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002515319A CA2515319A1 (en) | 2005-07-18 | 2005-07-18 | Integrated putting training and green speed measuring apparatus and method of use thereof |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002515319A CA2515319A1 (en) | 2005-07-18 | 2005-07-18 | Integrated putting training and green speed measuring apparatus and method of use thereof |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2515319A1 true CA2515319A1 (en) | 2007-01-18 |
Family
ID=37663437
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002515319A Abandoned CA2515319A1 (en) | 2005-07-18 | 2005-07-18 | Integrated putting training and green speed measuring apparatus and method of use thereof |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2515319A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2014147639A2 (en) * | 2013-03-19 | 2014-09-25 | Mann Gurbaaz Pratap Singh | The falcon eve |
-
2005
- 2005-07-18 CA CA002515319A patent/CA2515319A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2014147639A2 (en) * | 2013-03-19 | 2014-09-25 | Mann Gurbaaz Pratap Singh | The falcon eve |
| WO2014147639A3 (en) * | 2013-03-19 | 2014-12-04 | Mann Gurbaaz Pratap Singh | The falcon eve |
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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| FZDE | Discontinued |