JP5574609B2 - Method, apparatus and system for custom fitting of a golf club - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates generally to sports equipment, and more particularly to methods, apparatus, and systems for custom fitting of golf clubs.

  In order for an individual to play using appropriate tools, the golf club may be customized (custom fitting) to suit the individual. In one example, fitting a personal golf club (eg, an iron golf club) according to a custom fitting process developed by PING, Inc. (PING®, Inc.) to form a personalized golf set. You may go. As part of a custom fitting process developed by PING®, various physical properties (eg height, wrist-to-floor distance, hand dimensions, etc.) using, for example, a color code system And fitting for individuals with swinging tendencies (eg hooks, slices, pulls, pushes, etc.) and ball trajectory preferences (eg draws and fades) when using iron-type golf clubs It can be carried out. By using a custom-fitted golf club, an individual can play golf with full use of his / her ability.

  Typically, in a custom fitting process, when determining a set of golf clubs, an individual uses multiple clubs to make multiple shots, and a golf club fitter will fly on a golf club that has not been shot by an individual. Guess the distance. In accordance with the techniques described herein, a novel technique is disclosed that allows easier determination of the optimal golf club set in a custom fitting process.

Techniques disclosed herein is a gap distance to one or more targets, including the gap distance between adjacent clubs, a specifying step of specifying a golf preferences associated with individual club subsetting a receiving step of receiving a golf ball shot characteristic information including a golf ball launch condition data obtained from one or more golf shots individuals using, for evaluating the golf preferences and golf ball shot characteristic information relating to the individual Thereby determining a golf club set proposal indicating one or more target gap distances between adjacent clubs. The club subset includes fewer golf clubs than the proposed golf club set. The determining step of determining the proposed golf club set includes: providing a golf analyzer with a gap analyzer configured to identify a plurality of golf clubs for the proposed golf club set based on one or more target gap distances . the method comprising the steps of: providing access to the preferences and golf ball shot characteristic information, gap analyzer, the method comprising the steps of: access to the database with a golf club parameters of the library for the golf club, the gap distance to one or more of the target to select a set of golf clubs plan showing the the Gorufukura blanking in the library, calculating by a gap analyzer, and includes.
Other techniques disclosed herein can be implemented in a method for determining a golf club set. The method is determined by identifying golf preferences relating to an individual including differences in flight distances between golf clubs, receiving shot characteristic information, and evaluating golf preferences and shot characteristic information regarding the individual. Determining a golf club set having a difference in flight distance (gap distance) between adjacent clubs.

It is a block diagram which shows an example of the custom fitting system of the golf club which can implement | achieve gap determination. It is a block diagram which shows more specifically an example of a custom fitting system of a golf club which can realize gap determination. FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a gap determination user interface or display device of an example golf club custom fitting system capable of realizing gap determination. FIG. An example of the three-dimensional shot trajectory display part of a user interface or a display part is shown. An example of the two-dimensional shot trajectory display part of a user interface or a display part is shown. An example of the shot dispersion | distribution display part of a user interface or a display part is shown. An example of the tabular display of the component option display part of a user interface or a display part is shown. It is an Example of a user interface or a display part, and shows an example of the display mode of the gap distance between the exemplary clubs based on the first ground contact of a hit ball. It is an Example of a user interface or a display part, and shows an example of the display mode of the gap distance between the exemplary clubs based on the final position of a hit ball. 2 shows a flowchart illustrating a process for gap determination performed by an exemplary golf club custom fitting system. 6 shows a flowchart illustrating in more detail the gap determination step in the process for determining a gap. 2 shows a flowchart illustrating in more detail a first exemplary process for identifying optimal options associated with one or more golf clubs. 2 shows a flowchart illustrating in more detail a second exemplary process for identifying optimal options associated with one or more golf clubs. FIG. 2 shows a block diagram of an exemplary component system suitable for performing gap determination. FIG. 2 shows a block diagram illustrating an example of a fitting system according to embodiments of the methods, apparatus, systems, and products described herein. FIG. 16 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a processing device of the exemplary fitting system of FIG. 15. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display device of the exemplary fitting system of FIG. 15. FIG. 16 shows an example of another display device of the exemplary fitting system of FIG. 15. FIG. 16 shows an example of another display device of the exemplary fitting system of FIG. 15. FIG. 16 shows an example of another display device of the exemplary fitting system of FIG. 15. FIG. 17 shows a flowchart illustrating one way in which the exemplary processing device of FIG. 16 may operate. FIG. 17 shows a flowchart illustrating another method in which the exemplary processing apparatus of FIG. 16 may operate. FIG. 16 shows an example of another display device of the exemplary fitting system of FIG. 15. FIG. 16 shows an example of another display device of the exemplary fitting system of FIG. 15. FIG. 16 shows an example of another display device of the exemplary fitting system of FIG. 15. FIG. 16 shows a flowchart of one method by which the exemplary fitting system of FIG. 15 may operate.

  DETAILED DESCRIPTION This specification generally describes methods, apparatus, and products for custom fitting golf clubs. The methods, apparatus, and products described herein are not limited in this regard.

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of the present examples and is not intended to represent the only forms in which the present example may be constructed or utilized. This description shows the functionality of the example, as well as a series of steps for configuring and implementing the example. However, the same or equivalent functions and sequences can be achieved by various embodiments.
(First embodiment)

  In the embodiments described below, golf club fitting tailored to the user or player, more specifically gap analysis or gap determination will be described. The gap determination can be part of a club fitting system that also has other functions (eg, determining optimal length, grip, weight, loft, etc. for a particular user or player). In gap analysis and fitting (sometimes referred to herein as “gap”), a flight distance obtained by hitting a golf ball with a plurality of clubs is obtained, and the flight distance between golf clubs falls within the gap or range. Can be shown to adjust. In one example, the difference in flight distance between adjacent clubs of a plurality of clubs (ie, “gap”) may be maintained at a constant distance. In alternative examples, the gap between clubs can be adjusted non-uniformly or in any specified manner. It is also possible to specify different gaps for different clubs as desired. For example, the gap between the woods can be selected to be different from the gap between the irons in the club set. Gaps can be adjusted by selecting clubs and changing one or more club parameters to various amounts, and presenting a grab set with planned gaps and the like. Information used to determine or estimate club gaps can include player swing information, library information, or models that can be used in the process of modeling or estimating a specified gap. Ball trajectories and the like are estimated for various applicable clubs and club options. In particular, the final stage information of the ball trajectory can be obtained from the ball trajectory information measured first.

  In the present specification, the present embodiment is described and expressed as being implemented in a club fitting system, but the fitting system described here is an example, and the present invention is not limited thereto. One skilled in the art will appreciate that this embodiment can be applied to a wide variety of club fitting systems.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a custom fitting system for a golf club that can implement the gap determination 100. The fitting system 100 can include an input device 110, a tracking device 120 (e.g., a ball launch monitor and / or ball trajectory monitor) used with the input device 110, and a processing device 130. The processing device 130 can also be connected to a display device 150. Input device 110 and tracking device 120 may be connected to processing device 130 via a wireless connection and / or a wired connection. The input device 110 can be connected to the processing device 130 by one or more wired and / or wireless connections. In this fitting system, a gap determination process 101 can be implemented.

  With the fitting system 100, a driver type golf club, a fairway wood type golf club, a hybrid type golf club, an iron type golf club, a wedge type golf club, a putter type golf club, and / or other Various golf club fittings can be performed, such as an appropriate type of golf club. The fitting can include analysis of various parameters to recommend a club set. In particular, it is possible to obtain the ball ballistic information of the club by applying the ball launch parameters of the test shots of two or more clubs hit by the player 140 to all other clubs. By comparing the ball trajectories of two or more clubs, the gap in the shot range of the player 140 fitting in the club is displayed. In one embodiment described below, the fitting system 100 can present a club set having a specified gap.

  The input device 110 may be conventionally configured and may be selected for the purpose of assisting the interview portion of a custom fitting session with a player or user 140. An interview can usually ask any number of questions. In most cases, however, the greater the number of questions answered, the better. The input device 110 is connected to the processing device 130, and the preferences of the individual 140 fitting one or more golf clubs and other information related to the physical and performance characteristics of the individual 140 are input to the input device 110. To the processing device 130.

  The example input device 110 may be a keyboard and / or a mouse that operates in cooperation with the display device 150. The input device 110 also includes a display with a touch sensor, a trackpad, a trackball, a wireless ordering terminal, a paperless input system, a personal interview with an operator (data input will be performed later), a voice recognition system, a USB port (memory It may be a stick or other storage device), data port, internet connection (for remote input of data), other suitable human interface devices (HID), etc. In general, any type of data collection / input device suitable for collecting input data can be utilized as the input device 110.

  An example of data collected by input device 110 may include one or more categories of data. Player 140 test data is used extensively and may be used to account for differences that exist between irons, hybrids, fairway woods, wedges, and the like. Examples of categories include the physical characteristics of the player 140, the performance characteristics of the player 140, or the shot characteristics of the player. However, other categories can be formed equally if necessary. The accuracy of the model tends to be based on the amount of data provided, rather than the specific organization of the data within the category.

  The tracking device 120 can be configured conventionally and can measure characteristics associated with golf ball shots that the player 140 has hit using a particular golf club. For example, the example tracking device 120 can capture a plurality of data points, while the example radar tracking device 120 can provide more detailed information. In particular, shot characteristic information as described above can be collected using the tracking device 120. In order to provide shot characteristic information to the processing device 130, the tracking device 120 is connected to the processing device 130 by a wired connection and / or a wireless connection.

  The processing unit 130 can be configured conventionally and uses a processor, microprocessor to perform the process 101 to determine the appropriate gap for the club set using information from the input unit 110 and the tracking unit 120. , A graphics processor, and corresponding circuitry. The processing device 130 can generate one or more user interfaces for displaying the results determined by the process 101 on the display device 150, including the gap information, ballistic shot shot distribution display, And component distribution display and the like. Further, in the processing device, the input by controlling the flow of data from the input device 110 and the tracking device 120 and by providing a data input display 150 that guides the data input or data input at the interview stage. Data acquisition from device 110 and tracking device 120 can be controlled.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram more specifically illustrating an exemplary golf club custom fitting system 100 that can implement gap determination. The processing unit 130 may include a ballistic analyzer block 240, a shot dispersion analyzer block 250, a component option analyzer block 260, a gap analyzer block 270, a graphical user interface block 280, and a database block 290. Devices can communicate with each other in a conventional manner to perform an exemplary gap determination process 101 and generate an appropriate user interface 280.

  Each block 240, 250, 260, 270, 280, 290 may exist as a set of coded instructions or as storage according to conventional programming structures. Instructions can be coded using an object oriented programming language such as C #. Alternatively, the gap determination process 101 may be implemented by combining one or more blocks or further dividing into sub-blocks.

  As described below, a processing device (130 in FIG. 1) that cooperates with the gap determination process 101 (using one or more blocks 240, 250, 260, 270) presents recommended products and inputs devices ( Based on the exemplary input of physical characteristic information 210 and performance characteristic information 220 from 110) of FIG. 1, an individual (140 of FIG. 1) may be allowed to custom fit one or more golf clubs. The tracking device (120 in FIG. 1) can provide the shot characteristic information 230 to the processing device (130 in FIG. 1). Processing function processing blocks 240, 250, 260, 270, 280, 290, player input data 210, 220, 230, and information from database 290 by one or more blocks that implement gap determination 101. Thus, a display can be generated by the graphical user interface block 280 in recommending clubs with appropriate gaps.

  Exemplary physical characteristic information 210 includes gender (eg, male or female), age, dominant hand (eg, left or right hand), hand dimensions (eg, size of dominant hand, longest finger, etc.) height (eg, head Toe), wrist to floor distance, and / or other suitable characteristics.

  Exemplary player performance characteristic information (player preferences) 220 may include the type and number of clubs desired in the set (number of irons, wedges, wood, etc.) and club length. In addition, gap information can be specified. For example, you can specify gaps between all clubs as desired constant gaps, specify non-uniform gaps, specify gaps between specific clubs as specific gaps, or specify gaps in other ways . In addition, the average carry distance of one or more golf clubs (for example, the average carry distance of shots shot by an individual using a driver golf club, 7 iron golf club, etc.), golf handicap, Provide the number of rounds played per specific period (eg, month, quarter, year), golf preferences (eg, distance, direction, trajectory, loft, shot pattern), and / or other suitable characteristics You can also. Player preferences can usually be gathered from the answers received during the interview process.

  Shot characteristic information (or launch conditions) 230 may include information collected from one or more club swings. In particular, take-off information collected over several feet after the ball is hit can be used to determine the last gap information of the ball trajectory. In one example, information can be collected from two clubs. In an alternative example, information may be obtained from three clubs, typically one of the three being the middle club of the golf set, the other two being as far apart as possible and the middle Clubs that are as far away as possible from other clubs.

  The shot characteristic information 230 may include ball speed, vertical launch angle, and backspin. The ball speed of the golf ball can be the speed of the golf ball in response to a hit with a golf club. The launch angle of the golf ball can be the angle of the ball trajectory in response to the hit with the golf club. Thus, exemplary shot information includes information that enables three-dimensional modeling. However, even when the two-dimensional parameter is used in another embodiment, the gap can be determined, but usually a decrease in accuracy is observed in the gap result.

  Other shot characteristics 230 to be measured include horizontal launch angle, side spin, club speed, smash factor (confirmed as defined herein as “ball speed / club speed”), carry distance, total distance. , Offline distance, and / or other suitable characteristics. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard. Exemplary shot characteristics 230 may include information gathered from a tracking device (120 in FIG. 1) or shot information estimated from other inputs such as cataloged player test data.

  Ballistic analyzer 240 can analyze shot characteristic information 230 and the like to generate information such as a two-dimensional ballistic display or a three-dimensional ballistic display that can be processed by graphical user interface 280 for display device 150. It is. These displays 150 are generated to use the initial launch data 230 to determine the final or final characteristics of the shot. Therefore, it is possible to model where the ball will land according to the initial conditions, and as a result, a gap between clubs is obtained.

  The shot dispersion analyzer 250 can analyze the shot characteristic information 230 and generate shot dispersion information to be processed and displayed by the graphical user interface 280. In the shot dispersion display section, it is possible to indicate how steadily the shot can be shot by the player. All data points generated by the shot variance analyzer 250 can be used to determine the gap, or out-of-range shots can be identified and eliminated.

  Component option analyzer 260 analyzes physical characteristic information 210, performance characteristic information 220, and / or shot characteristic information 230 into one or more components (more specifically, gap determination) of a golf club. Appropriate options can be identified. Typically, a club set or a list of clubs can be determined and this information can be provided to the graphical user interface 280 for the display device 150 as a table, chart, graph, or the like.

  The component option analyzer 260 can identify a particular model (eg, model option) based on the golf club swing speed and the gender of the individual (140 in FIG. 1). The component option analyzer 260 may identify one or more lofts that are presented by the manufacturer along with the selected model option based on the selected model option (eg, a loft option). In addition, the component option analyzer 260 can also provide selected model options and one or more types of shafts (eg, regular, stiff, extrastiff, soft) that correspond to the selected loft options. (Eg shaft option). For example, the component option analyzer 260 can identify shaft options based on an individual's swing speed. The component option analyzer 260, based on the selected model option, the selected loft option, and the selected shaft option, corresponds to the model option, the loft option, and the shaft option. Alternatively, a plurality of lengths can be specified. In addition, the component option analyzer 260 identifies one or more grips corresponding to the selected model option, the selected loft option, the selected shaft option, and the selected length option. Can do. For example, if an individual wants to make a straight trajectory because the shot's trajectory is sliced, the component option analyzer 260 can allow the individual to reduce the tilt of the golf club's axis of rotation (eg, side A relatively thin grip can be identified (so that spin is reduced). The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  The gap analyzer 270 analyzes the physical characteristic information 210, the performance characteristic information 220, and / or the shot characteristic information 230 to determine that the gap distance between two adjacent golf clubs in the golf club set is substantially uniform. Can be specified. In addition, the module can utilize the results of the other blocks 240, 250, 260 to generate a gap result that can be processed by the graphical user interface 280 for the display device 150.

  Database 290 can be configured as before. The database can act as a repository for stored club information and shot information. Alternatively, the club information and shot information can be stored as data structures on a computer readable medium or the like for loading into a database. The database 290 may also exchange information with one or more blocks 240, 250, 260, 270, 280 as a temporary information repository, or one or more blocks 240, 250 within the gap determination process 101. , 260, 270, 280 can be used. For example, the physical parameters of various types of clubs and the various options for those clubs can be stored in the database 290 as cataloged data or library data. In addition, launch conditions associated with cataloged clubs can also be stored in the database 290. It is also possible to store multiple simulated ball trajectories or actual ball trajectories for each cataloged club. When using stored ball trajectory information, it can be averaged, selected to match exemplary ball trajectory information, or similarly evaluated. The launch data can be obtained from an interview session with the user (140 in FIG. 1) and / or collected from other users. In one example, the database 290 can be integrated into a central server (not shown) and the processing device 130 can download information from the database 290 to a local storage device or memory (not shown).

  Although one or more components are described as separate blocks, in an alternative embodiment, two or more components 240, 250, 260, 270, 280 of processing device 130 are combined into a single block. You may integrate. Although certain components are described as being integrated within processing unit 130, further alternative embodiments may perform remote processing with one or more components independent of processing unit 130. Also good. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  FIG. 3 shows an example of a gap determination user interface (display unit 300) of an exemplary golf club custom fitting system (100 in FIG. 1) capable of exchanging information with the gap determination unit. The display may be generated by a graphical user interface block (280 in FIG. 2) and displayed on the previously described display device (150 in FIG. 1). Such a graphical user interface 300 may include a plurality of displays that are displayed as 310, 320, 330, 340, 350, 360.

  For example, the plurality of display units 300 include a three-dimensional ballistic display unit 310, a two-dimensional ballistic display unit 320 (here, the display units 310 and 320 can be collectively referred to as an example of the ballistic display unit 315), A display unit for determining a gap such as the shot dispersion display unit 330 and the component option display unit 340 can be included. Further, it is possible to provide a display unit 350 for determining the gap based on the first ground contact at the time of landing and a display unit 360 for determining the gap based on the final ground contact or rolling (here, the display units 350 and 360). Can be regarded as an example of the gap determination display portion 355). In alternate embodiments of the user interface 300, any number of displays may be provided. The information can be provided in a graphic format, text format, tabular format, or any format suitable for conveying gap determination information.

  The processing device (130 in FIG. 1) may provide a multimedia display unit (not shown) for the purpose of providing information or teaching, for example, in addition to or instead of the component option display unit 340. . For example, the multimedia display unit may provide a video explaining various modes such as golf clubs and golf play. Accordingly, the processor may provide information analysis or educational analysis instead of or in addition to providing recommended products for one or more golf clubs.

  In general, the plurality of displays 300 may provide information associated with a virtual depiction and / or information associated with a golf club custom fitting session in a gap determination process (101 in FIG. 1). Although only a certain number of displays are shown in the figure, the plurality of displays 300 are more display units that can provide virtual depictions and / or information associated with a custom fitting session for a golf club. More or less may be included. The embodiments described herein are not limited in this respect.

  FIG. 4 shows an example of a three-dimensional shot trajectory display unit (310 in FIG. 3) displayed by the user interface or the display device. The three-dimensional trajectory display unit 310 can generate a plurality of trajectories 400 (each trajectory is displayed as a trajectory 410, 420, 430) that can be associated with a particular golf club. The trajectory starts from an initial position representing the initial position 440 where the golf ball was set. The trajectory usually ends at positions 421, 411, 431 where the ball lands or rests.

  That is, the three-dimensional trajectory display unit 310 can be a series of views from the viewpoint of an individual who hits the golf ball (140 in FIG. 1) and / or from the viewpoint of someone else located near the individual (140 in FIG. 1). Ballistic and information 400 can be generated. The ballistic analyzer 240 analyzes the shot characteristic information 230 related to the shot in which the individual 140 hits the golf ball and / or another person having characteristics close to those of the individual 140 among other persons stored in the database 290. The objective shot characteristic information can be analyzed. That is, data of a person whose physical characteristic information 210 and performance characteristic information 220 are similar to the individual 140 can be selected. In one example, the three-dimensional trajectory display unit 310 includes a first trajectory 410 that shows a first golf ball shot using a specific golf club, and a second golf ball shot that uses the same golf club. And a third trajectory 430 showing a third golf ball shot using the same golf club. Information indicating the club being used, distance, and other indicators can also be displayed. For example, shot distance, shot height, rolling distance, etc. can be displayed along with or in place of the graphic. Further, in an alternative embodiment, information such as ball speed, height direction, etc. may be displayed by placing a cursor (not shown) on the trajectory 410, 420, 430.

  The trajectories 410, 420, 430 can be entered or distinguished in several ways. The first trajectory 410, the second trajectory 420, and the third trajectory 430 are depicted by a solid line, a broken line, and a dotted line, respectively, but the trajectory 400 is colored, line thickness, symbol, key, label. Or the like. In one embodiment, the first trajectory 410 is shown in a first color (eg, red), the second trajectory 420 is shown in a second color (eg, blue), and the third trajectory 430 is shown in a third color. It can be indicated by a color (for example, yellow).

  As shown in the figure, three trajectories 410, 420, and 430 indicating shots when the same club is used are displayed. This display can show the dispersion due to the striking ability of individuals (140 in FIG. 1), ie the trajectory can show the use of clubs with various options. In another embodiment, the first trajectory 410 is associated with the first golf club, the second trajectory 420 is associated with the second golf club, and the third trajectory 430 is associated with the third golf club. Also good. Clubs can be of different types (3 iron, 5 iron, 1 wood, etc.). As described in detail below, the first golf club, the second golf club, and the third golf club may have one or more component options (eg, model, loft, lie, shaft, long , Grips, etc.) may be different from each other.

  The trajectories 410, 420, 430 can represent a single shot or an average of any number of shots. When averaging is used, various conventional averaging methods can be applied. In particular, the first trajectory 410 may represent an average of a plurality of shots associated with the first golf club. The second trajectory 420 can indicate an average of a plurality of shots associated with the second golf club. The third trajectory 430 may indicate an average of a plurality of shots associated with the third golf club. These trajectories can be distinguished as described above.

  The three-dimensional ballistic display unit 310 can provide environmental information (elevation, wind speed, humidity, and / or temperature) of the location of the custom fitting session in addition to the above-described ballistic information. In the above embodiment, three trajectories 410, 420, and 430 are depicted and described. However, in the method, apparatus, and system described herein, the number of trajectories included in the display unit 310 is increased from three. Can also be reduced. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  FIG. 5 is a first example of a two-dimensional shot ballistic display that can be determined by a ballistic analyzer (320 in FIG. 3) of the user interface or display (300 in FIG. 3). In this embodiment, the shot end reference point can be captured as a position 531 where the ball first contacts the ground when the ball lands. The two-dimensional trajectory display 320 can generate one or more trajectories that are generally displayed at 500 and displayed as trajectories 510, 520, 530 for the optimal trajectory or trajectory range 540. The illustrated two-dimensional trajectory display unit 320 provides a side view of the ball trajectory.

  In particular, each of the trajectories 500 can show a different shot using a particular golf club. For example, the first trajectory 510 can indicate the trajectory of a first shot using a golf club. The second trajectory 520 can indicate the trajectory of the second shot using the same golf club. The third trajectory 530 can indicate the trajectory of a third shot using the same golf club.

  Alternatively, each of the trajectories 500 can indicate an average of multiple shots for one golf club. For example, the first trajectory 510 can indicate an average of multiple shots for the first golf club. The second trajectory 520 can represent an average of multiple shots for a second golf club (different from the first golf club). Third trajectory 530 may indicate an average of multiple shots for a third golf club (different from the first and second golf clubs). Various conventional averaging methods can be applied.

  In an alternative embodiment, the first, second, and third golf clubs are the same type of club, as described below, and one or more component options (e.g., model, loft, Lie, shaft, length, grip, etc.) may be different.

  The optimal trajectory range 540 can indicate a personal target range using specific swing parameters (eg, swing speed, etc.). The trajectory range 540 can be represented by a single trajectory, a shaded area between trajectories, an optimal trajectory with an indicator of allowable deviation, and the like. Thus, the trajectory 500 can be compared to the optimal trajectory range 540.

  In the two-dimensional ballistic display unit 320, in addition to the above ballistic information, shot information related to each shot (club speed, ball speed, smash factor, launch angle, backspin, side spin, vertical landing angle, offline distance, Data or text can also be provided indicating carry distance, etc.).

  Further, the two-dimensional trajectory display unit 320 can expand or hide shot information related to a series of shots as desired. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  FIG. 6 shows an example of a user interface that can be generated by a shot dispersion analyzer (240 in FIG. 2) or a shot dispersion display section (330 in FIG. 3) of the display section. The shot distribution display 330 can generate one or more perimeters 600 (typically displayed as 610 and 620) associated with the shot distribution. Each of the perimeters 600 can surround the final ground contact point of two or more shots obtained using a particular golf club. Each perimeter can also be used to surround a certain percentage of shots (eg 90%) that fall within the range, whereas multiple shots (eg 10%) are outside that particular perimeter Can be displayed.

  Alternatively, the distributed display unit 330 may include a first outer periphery 610 containing a plurality of shots associated with the first golf club and a plurality of associated with the second golf club (different from the first golf club). A second perimeter 620 containing the shot can be generated. In particular, one or more component options (eg, model, loft, lie, shaft, length, grip, etc.) of the first golf club and the second golf club may be different from each other. The first outer periphery 610 may be indicated by a first color (eg, blue) and the second outer periphery 620 may be indicated by a second color (eg, red). Alternatively, the outer periphery can be distinguished using various line types (dotted line, solid line) or the like.

  The shot scatter display can provide a centerline 630 to represent a substantially straight shot (eg, a shot showing landing at a particular location 640). For each shot hit, centerline 630 can be used to determine the off-line distance or deviation 650 from the straight shot. The shot to the left of the center line 630 is a hook shot or draw shot 660, while the shot to the right of the center line 630 is a slice shot or fade shot 670. For example, the shot surrounded by the first outer periphery 610 may include a hook shot and a draw shot. The shot surrounded by the second perimeter 620 can include a draw shot, a slice shot, or a fade shot.

  The outer peripheries 610 and 620 are displayed in an elliptical shape, but other peripheries having an appropriate shape (for example, a circle, a rectangle, and an irregular shape) can be used. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard. As with ballistic analyzer 240, shot variance analyzer 250 analyzes shot characteristic information 230 related to shots in which individual 140 hits a golf ball and / or an individual from among others stored in database 290. Objective shot characteristic information of another person having an attribute similar to 140 (for example, a person whose physical characteristic information 210 and performance characteristic information 220 are similar to the individual 140) can be analyzed.

  FIG. 7 is an example of the tabular display of the component option display section (340 in FIG. 3) of the user interface or display section (300 in FIG. 3). The component option display 340 can display one or more options associated with one or more components of the golf club. In one example, the component option display 340 includes physical characteristic information (210 in FIG. 2), performance characteristic information (220 in FIG. 2), and / or shot characteristic information (FIG. 2) corresponding to an individual (140 in FIG. 1). 2) 230), one or more models of a driver-type golf club presented by the manufacturer may be shown.

  The gap analyzer (270 in FIG. 2) can identify a plurality of golf clubs that can constitute a set with a substantially uniform gap distance. Alternatively, the gap can be non-uniform or selected according to a desired gap criterion. The gap distance 702 may be a difference 704 between two carry distances between two adjacent clubs. Alternatively, if the gap distance 702 is defined as a difference 704 between two total distances between two adjacent clubs, it can be designated as such. In particular, the gap analyzer can identify golf clubs constituting a set in which the gap distance between two adjacent golf clubs in the set is substantially uniform (for example, a driver type golf club and a putter type golf club). Excluding golf clubs). In the figure, the carry distance gap of the iron 711 is 10 yards.

  As shown in this exemplary table, the gap distance 710 between the 8-iron golf club and the 7-iron golf club may be set to 10 yards (the carry distance is 130 yards and 140 yards, respectively). Thus, the substantially uniform gap distance between two adjacent golf clubs in the set can also be about 10 yards. As shown in the table, the gap distance 720 between the 7 iron golf club and the 6 iron golf club can be 10 yards (for example, the carry distance is 140 yards and 150 yards, respectively). Similarly, the gap distance 730 between the 6 iron golf club and the 5 iron golf club can also be 10 yards (for example, the carry distance is 150 yards and 160 yards, respectively).

  For a substantially uniform gap distance 710, 720, and 730 (10 yards), a gap distance 740 between an individual's 5-iron golf club and 4-iron golf club is a substantially uniform gap distance (10 Yard) may be shorter. In this case, since the gap distance 740 between the 5th iron golf club and the 4th iron golf club is shorter than the uniform gap distance (10 yards), the gap analyzer maintains the gap at a substantially uniform value (10 yards). In order to do so, a hybrid golf club can be presented or specified in place of the 4-iron golf club. The gap analyzer can present an alternate club to maintain a 10 yard gap distance between the 5-iron golf club and the next golf club in the set. Therefore, in the gap analyzer, the gap distance between the 5-iron golf club and the hybrid 22 ° golf club is 10 yards (for example, the carry distance between the 5-iron golf club and the hybrid 22 ° golf club is 160 respectively. Therefore, the hybrid 22 ° golf club can be specified.

  In another embodiment, the gap analyzer (220 in FIG. 2) has a gap distance between the hybrid 22 ° golf club and the hybrid 18 ° golf club of 10 yards (eg, carry distances of 170 yards and 180 yards, respectively). On the other hand, the gap distance between the hybrid 22 ° golf club and the hybrid 15 ° golf club is 15 yards (for example, the carry distances are 170 yards and 185 yards, respectively). ° A golf club can be identified.

  By applying shot characteristic information (230 in FIG. 2) (for example, ball speed, ball launch angle, ball spin rate, etc.) in addition to the swing speed of an individual (140 in FIG. 1), a gap analyzer (FIG. 2). 220) can achieve a substantially uniform gap distance between two adjacent golf clubs in a set. In the above embodiment, the gap distance is described as the difference between the two carry distances 706 of the two adjacent clubs. However, the gap distance is the two total distances of the two adjacent clubs (the carry distance and the carry distance). It is good also as the difference of 708 which added the rolling distance.

  In the example of FIGS. 8 and 9, the processing device (130 of FIG. 1) can generate one or more gap analysis displays, as previously indicated as 350 and 360 of FIG. Gap analysis displays 350 and 360 may each visually display at least one gap distance between two shots shot using different golf clubs (eg, two golf clubs in a set). In general, the gap between the first ground contact points (805 in FIG. 8) and the gap between the end points of the rolling of the shot (905 in FIG. 9) are respectively displayed.

  FIG. 8 is a first example of a user interface or display (350 in FIG. 3) that displays an exemplary gap between clubs based on the initial ground contact of the ball. The gap distance 805 can be the difference in carry distance between two shots hit by two different golf clubs. In one embodiment, an individual (140 in FIG. 1) can hit a golf ball with a 6 iron golf club to produce a 150 yard flight 820, while an individual (140 in FIG. 1) A golf ball can be hit with an iron golf club to obtain a flying distance 810 of 160 yards. For this reason, the gap distance 805 between the 5th iron golf club and the 6th iron golf club can be 10 yards. Further, the carry distances 815 and 825 generally indicated by the curves 810 and 820 can be the travel distance of the golf ball from hitting by the golf club to the first landing on the ground. Thus, the gap distance 805 can be the difference between the carry distance 815 corresponding to the first shot 810 and the carry distance 825 corresponding to the second shot 820. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  FIG. 9 is an example of a user interface or display (360 in FIG. 3) that displays an exemplary gap between clubs based on the final position of the hit ball. Here, the gap distance 905 can be a difference between the total distances of two shots hit by two different golf clubs (the carry distance plus the rolling distance or the slip distance). Accordingly, the gap distance 905 can be defined as the difference between the total distance 915 corresponding to the first shot and the total distance 925 corresponding to the second shot. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  The number of golf clubs that an individual (140 in FIG. 1) can use during a golf round (for example, the number of golf clubs that an individual (140 in FIG. 1) can carry in a golf bag) during a golf round. It is prescribed. For example, an individual (140 in FIG. 1) is allowed to carry a maximum of 14 golf clubs in a golf bag. However, an individual (140 in FIG. 1) may not always be able to effectively use all 14 clubs. As described in detail below, especially when the club set is limited, when selecting a club set, various golf clubs within the set (eg, fairway wood type golf clubs, hybrid type golf clubs, irons) By maintaining a uniform gap between shots of type golf clubs, wedge type golf clubs, etc., individual (140 in FIG. 1) performance can be supported.

  The gap can be determined by examining various measurement parameters, calculation parameters, and the like. In general, the gap analyzer (270 in FIG. 2) may be coupled with other blocks 240, 250, 260, 290 or alone to provide physical characteristic information (270) to provide a golf club set with uniform gaps. 2), performance characteristic information (220 in FIG. 2), and / or shot characteristic information (230 in FIG. 2) can be analyzed. The gap analyzer (270 in FIG. 2) also provides ball launch parameters (eg, ball speed, ball launch angle, ball spin rate, etc.) for other golf clubs in the set that an individual (140 in FIG. 1) may use. In addition to swing speed, shot characteristic information (230 in FIG. 2) (eg, ball speed, ball launch of two or more shots associated with two or more golf clubs) in addition to swing speed Angle, ball spin rate) can be used.

  In one example, an individual (140 in FIG. 1) can hit two or more shots using a first golf club (eg, a 7 iron). An individual (140 in FIG. 1) can also make two or more shots using a second golf club (eg, hybrid 22 °). A ball trajectory can be simulated based on shot characteristic information collected from these shots (230 in FIG. 2) and stored or cataloged reference data regarding golf clubs not used during the fitting session. . Upon implementation of the ball trajectory simulation, the gap analyzer (270 in FIG. 2) can estimate various golf club ball launch parameters for the individual (140 in FIG. 1). For example, reference data for various clubs and options can be calculated and / or measured based on shots shot by other individuals. The reference data can be stored in a database (290 in FIG. 2) for use in the modeling and / or estimation process. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process 101 for gap distance determination that may be performed by an exemplary golf club caster fitting system (eg, 100 of FIG. 1). The preference of the first player is identified (1015). Identifying player preferences may include two sub-steps 1010, 1020. First, in step 1010, personal preferences can be entered. In step 1010, physical characteristic information associated with the individual (210 in FIG. 2) may be entered or received (eg, via input device 110 in FIG. 1). In step 1020, the gap analyzer (270 in FIG. 2) may receive performance characteristic information (220 in FIG. 2) associated with the individual (140 in FIG. 1). Further, in step 1030, the gap analyzer (270 in FIG. 2) can receive shot characteristic information (230 in FIG. 2) associated with the individual that can be obtained via the tracking device (120 in FIG. 1).

  In step 1035, physical characteristic information (210 in FIG. 2), performance characteristic information (220 in FIG. 2), shot characteristic information (230 in FIG. 2), (eg, ballistic analyzer) (240 in FIG. 2), shot It can be processed or modeled by a dispersion analyzer (250 in FIG. 2), a component option analyzer (260 in FIG. 2), and / or a graphical user interface (280 in FIG. 2). In step 1040, the results can be used to generate a plurality of displays (300 in FIG. 3).

  At step 1050, the process performed by the component option analyzer (260 in FIG. 2) can identify appropriate options associated with one or more components of the golf club. In step 1060, a golf set can be identified in which the gap distance between two adjacent golf clubs in the set is a specified distance.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining in detail the gap distance determination and modeling step (1035 in FIG. 10) in the gap distance determination (101 in FIG. 1) process. In step 1102, data collected when an individual (140 in FIG. 1) uses the fitting system in an actual club may be loaded from the database 290. This information can include club data as well as ball trajectory information. The ball trajectory information can include data related to the vertical launch angle, spin rate, and the like. Typically, gaps may exist in the collected data even if the user has shot only a few clubs to generate data for gap analysis. As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 7 described above, data of four clubs are measured (lob wedge, 6 iron, hybrid 15 °, and driver). In the process, the player's actual shot information for the four clubs can be used to determine the carry distance, total distance, and gap distance of the four clubs. In the example of FIG. 7, the gap distance is based on the carry distance, but can be determined based on the total distance.

  In step 1104, the test data and ball trajectory calculation stored for modeling can be accessed. To give a full set of possible clubs, refer to the database and create a club array containing cataloged data (stored test data) and player data pre-collected and stored from user test shots. Can be entered. In particular, information obtained from exemplary camera measurement or radar measurement is used in a ball trajectory calculation formula, and includes ball speed, vertical launch angle, spin rate, spin axis, and the like. Certain clubs can be excluded from the sequence according to user preferences obtained during the interview process. For clubs that are allowed by an individual, all possible clubs may be substantially configured and given a value in the array. When there is a club that is considered to have missing stored data, it is possible to estimate data relating to the missing club by a conventional numerical method. As shown in FIG. 7, under the “type” column, there are a plurality of clubs designated as “calculated”. These clubs are clubs that the user wants to include in their set and that the user has not shot to determine the carry distance, total distance, or gap distance. If the user determines the carry distance, total distance, and gap distance for those clubs that have not shot, the test data for these clubs is loaded.

  In step 1106, all possible club launch conditions and ball trajectories may be determined based on the initial ball launch conditions. At this stage of processing, a conventional formula showing the ball trajectory known to those skilled in the art can also be loaded for processing. In these calculations, golf ball launch parameters can be taken to determine a complete ball trajectory model including rebound and roll for each club. Therefore, a library of test shot information and club parameters providing a ball trajectory model for estimating the ball trajectory pattern and the total distance traveled by the ball using a known linear equation or quadratic equation. ("Library information"). If necessary, higher order equations may be used. The travel distance of the ball can include the carry distance and the total distance. Once the shot distance for each club can be calculated, the gap can be determined as described above. As shown in exemplary FIG. 7, the model uses the club library information for “calculated” clubs and user-provided data for “measured” clubs to carry distances, total distances, and gaps for all clubs. The distance is entered. Since the process selects and displays only clubs that can achieve the specified gap distance (determined in the next step), there may actually be more calculation results than shown in FIG.

  In step 1108, the club corresponding to the recommended gap distance is selected. Once the shot distance is known, the clubs are sorted to recommend the gap distance based on the user input and user preferences described above. Results can be provided in a table, bar graph, or other suitable user interface. Next, one club set can be presented. Alternatively, a plurality of club sets may be presented. As shown in exemplary FIG. 7, a plurality of clubs with specified gaps are displayed.

  In step 1110, the club set can be modified interactively. When an individual (140 in FIG. 1) requests a change, the club is typically replaced using the user interface (150 in FIG. 1). Selection can be facilitated by various graphical user interfaces (300 in FIG. 3) that can be provided for the club under consideration. As shown in exemplary FIG. 7, the user may wish to add or delete clubs depending on the results found. As shown in FIG. 7, when the 4 iron and the hybrid 22 ° are compared, the total distance is the same (180 yards), but the carry distance used to calculate the gap is different (165 yards and 175 yards, respectively). The user may wish to select both the 4th iron and the hybrid 22 °. Since the user can obtain the same total distance, the user may wish to delete one of the clubs. If instructions are entered according to the user's desires, the process is performed so that the assortment in the club set can be customized as requested by the user.

  Alternatively, the gap analyzer 270 can identify the transition of the gap distance in the golf club set (eg, the gap distance between two adjacent golf clubs in the set can be increased or decreased throughout the set. Is possible). In particular, the gap analyzer 270 can identify a first gap distance in a first golf club group in the set and a second gap distance in a second golf club group in the same set. In one example, the gap analyzer 270 may identify a first gap distance (8 yards) for a wedge type golf club in a set and a second gap distance (10 yards) for an iron type golf club. Further, the gap analyzer 270 can specify the third gap distance (15 yards) for a fairway wood type golf club.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating in more detail a first exemplary process 1200 for performing identification of optimal options (1050 in FIG. 10) associated with one or more golf clubs. The processing device (130 in FIG. 1) is based on physical property information (210 in FIG. 2), performance property information (220 in FIG. 2), and / or shot property information (230 in FIG. 2). It is possible to specify the components of the golf club that suit the requirements.

  Further, although the processes are shown in a specific order, these processes can be executed in other temporal orders. Further, the exemplary process 1200 is only provided and described as an example of one method for recommending a golf club to an individual in connection with a processing device (130 in FIGS. 1 and 2).

  Process 1200 may begin by identifying options for each of a plurality of golf club components (step 1210). In general, the process 1200 can separate each of the plurality of components and identify the optimal option for each of the plurality of components (1201, 1203).

That is, an individual (140 in FIG. 1) can shot a golf ball one or more times using a golf club with the first option of the first component. In one example, the fitting system (100 in FIG. 1) can allow an individual to fit a driver-type golf club. Accordingly, the component option analyzer (260 in FIG. 2) can identify a specific model for an individual based on physical characteristic information (210 in FIG. 2) and performance characteristic information (220 in FIG. 2). . In step 1220, the process 1200 identifies a user who makes one or more shots using a club with a _first option (eg, A ₁ ) of the first component to a tracking device (120 in FIG. 1). ) Can be monitored (step 1220).

In step 1230, the component option analyzer (230 in FIG. 2) determines that the first option (eg, A ₁ ) is the best option for the first component based on the shot result obtained in step 1220. Can be determined. For example, when the trajectory of the shot result is in the optimal trajectory range 540 and / or when the variation in the shot result is within a predetermined range (for example, within the outer periphery 600), the first option ( For example, A ₁ ) may be determined to be the optimal option for the first component. If the first option is not the optimal option for the first component, the process proceeds to step 1240 and identifies a _second option (eg, A ₂ ) for the first component. The process can continue to execute the loop as described above until the component option analyzer (260 in FIG. 2) identifies the best option (eg, A _N ) for the first component.

Returning to step 1230, once the first option is determined for the first component, the process proceeds to the next step. In step 1250, the process can then identify options for the second component. This second component can be based on the option determined to be most suitable for the first component. For example, the process can identify the optimal loft corresponding to the optimal model that has been collected or assembled so far. In step 1260, the process monitors one or more shots based on the club incorporating the _first option (eg, B ₁ ) of the second component via the launch monitor (120 in FIG. 1). can do.

In step 1270, the component option analyzer (230 in FIG. 2), based on the shot measurement result obtained from step 1260, the first option (eg, B ₁ ) is optimal for the second component. It can be determined whether it is optional. The determination in step 1270 can be performed based on the same criteria as in the determination in step 1230. If the first option is not the optimal option for the second component, the process proceeds to step 1280 and identifies a _second option (eg, B ₂ ) for the second component. The process may continue to execute the loop as described above until the component option analyzer identifies an appropriate option (eg, B _N ) for the second component. In step 1260, the part is measured within the variation introduced for the second component, and the result can be evaluated again in step 1220.

Returning to step 1270, if it is determined that the first option is an appropriate option for the second component, the process proceeds to step 1290 to select the optimal option for the first and second components. (Eg, A _N , B _N ) can be specified.

  Although this process shows how to identify the best option for two components, an alternative embodiment of this process is to identify the best option for more than two components. It may be expanded (or only one component may be identified). Although the processes are shown in a particular order, these processes can also be performed in other temporal orders. For example, the illustrated two or more processes may be executed sequentially, simultaneously, or simultaneously. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  As described above, process 1200 may first identify the appropriate options for the first component. In response to identifying the appropriate option for the first component, the process can identify the appropriate option for the next component based on the option appropriate for that component. In further alternative embodiments, the process may be repeated one or more times to further adjust the selected components.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating in more detail a second exemplary process 1300 for identifying optimal options associated with one or more golf clubs (1050 in FIG. 10). In step 1310, the process 1300 may begin by identifying options for each of the plurality of components of the golf club (1301, 1303). Next, in step 1320, the process (via launch monitor 130 of FIG. ₁ ) is obtained by utilizing or setting a _first option (eg, A ₁ ) for the first component 1. One or more test shots can be monitored.

Based on the shot obtained in step 1320, the component option analyzer (230 in FIG. 2) determines in step 1330 whether the first option (eg, A ₁ ) is an appropriate option for the first component. It can be determined. In step 1330, the determination can be made based on the same criteria as in the determination in step 1230. If the first option is not the optimal option for the first component, the process may proceed to step 1340 and a second option (eg, A ₂ ) for the first component may be identified. The component option analyzer (260 in FIG. 2) identifies the best option (eg, A _N ) for the first component by evaluating component adjustments using the collected shot monitor data. Until then, the process can run continuously as described above.

  Returning to step 1330, if the first option is determined to be the optimal option for the first component, the process proceeds to step 1350 and is independent of the optimal option for the first component. Options for the second component can be identified.

Process 1300 can monitor one or more shots (eg, via launch monitor 130 of FIG. 1) based on a first option (eg, B ₁ ) of the second component (steps). 1360).

In step 1370, the component option analyzer (230 in FIG. 2), based on the test shot results obtained from step 1360, the first option (eg, B ₁ ) is appropriate for the second component. It can be determined whether it is an option (step 1370). The determination in step 1370 can be performed based on the same criteria as in the determination in step 1230. If the first option is not the optimal option for the second component, the process may proceed to step 1380 and a second option (eg, B ₂ ) for the second component may be identified. Process 1300 may continue to execute the loop as described above until component option analyzer (260 in FIG. 2) identifies the appropriate option (eg, B _N ) for the second component. .

Returning to step 1370, if a suitable option is found for the second component, the process proceeds to step 1390 where the optimal option for the first and second components (eg, A _N , B _N ). Can be specified.

  The process of the first embodiment can be performed in any combination of machine accessible media, such as volatile memory, non-volatile memory, or other mass storage device (eg, floppy disk, CD, DVD). It can be implemented as machine accessible instructions using any of a variety of stored programming code. For example, the implementation of machine accessible instructions includes programmable gate arrays, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), cancellation / programmable read only memory (EPROM), read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), It can be performed by machine accessible media such as magnetic media, optical media, and / or other suitable types of media.

  Although FIG. 13 illustrates a method for identifying appropriate or acceptable options for two components, in the methods, apparatus, and systems described herein, two or more components It is also possible to specify the most suitable option (or only one component may be specified). Although FIG. 13 shows processes in a specific order, these processes can be executed in other temporal orders. For example, the two or more processes shown in FIG. 13 may be executed sequentially or simultaneously. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  FIG. 14 illustrates an exemplary fitting system computing environment 100 in which the gap determination process 101 described herein may be implemented. The exemplary fitting system con-computing environment 100 is only one example of a suitable computing system, and not all examples described herein are limited to such a particular computing environment.

  For example, the computing environment 100 can be implemented using many other general purpose or special purpose computing system configurations. Examples of well-known computing systems include, but are not limited to, personal computers, handheld or laptop devices, microprocessor-based systems, multiprocessor systems, and the like.

  The computer 100 includes a general-purpose computing system in the form of a computing device 130. The components of the arithmetic unit 130 include one or a plurality of processors (including a CPU, a GPU, a microprocessor, and the like) 1407, a system memory 1409, and a system bus 1408 that connects various components of the system. it can. The processor 1407 processes instructions that can be executed by various computers. The instructions include instructions for implementing the gap determination process 101 to control the operation of the arithmetic device 130, other electronic devices and arithmetic devices (not shown). Command) to communicate with the device. The system bus 1408 illustrates several types of bus structures: a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, an accelerated graphics port, and a processor or local using any of a variety of bus architectures. Including bus.

  The system memory 1409 includes computer readable media in the form of volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM), and / or in the form of non-volatile memory, such as read only memory (ROM). During operation, an application program that performs the processing of gap determination 101 may be loaded into volatile memory. The basic input / output system (BIOS) is stored in the ROM. The RAM typically contains data and / or program modules that are immediately accessible to one or more processors 1407 and / or data and / or program modules that are currently in operation by one or more processors 1407.

  The mass storage device 1404 can be connected to the arithmetic device 130 or can be incorporated into the arithmetic device by connecting to the bus. As such a large-capacity storage device 1404, a magnetic disk drive that reads / writes data from / to a nonvolatile removable magnetic disk (for example, “floppy (registered trademark) disk”) 1405, or a nonvolatile removable optical disk (for example, CD ROM) 1406 may be an optical disk drive that reads and writes. The computer readable media 1405, 1406 embody computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, etc., typically provided on a floppy disk, CD, portable memory stick or the like. An application program that implements the gap determination process 101 can be located in the mass storage device described above. Also, test data that is stored and used in gap analysis can be stored on a computer readable medium used in the gap determination process 101.

  The hard disk 1410, the mass storage device 1404, the ROM and / or the RAM 1409 can store any number of program modules such as a gap determination process. This includes, for example, an operating system, one or more application programs (eg, one that determines the gap 101), other program modules, program data, and the like. Each such operating system, application program, other program module, and program data (or combination thereof) may include an embodiment of the method 101 described herein.

  The display device 150 can be connected to the system bus 1408 via an interface such as a video adapter 1411. Such a display would be suitable for displaying a graphical user interface (300 in FIG. 3) corresponding to the gap determination process 101. A user can interface with the computing device 702 via any input device 110 (keyboard, pointing device, joystick, gamepad, serial port, etc.). These input devices and other input devices are connected to the processor 1407 via an input / output interface 1412 connected to the system bus 1408, such as a parallel port, a game port, and / or a universal serial bus (USB), etc. They may be connected by other interfaces or bus structures.

  The computing device 100 can operate in a network environment connected to one or a plurality of remote computers via one or a plurality of local area networks (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), or the like. The processing device 130 may be connected to the network 1414 via a network adapter 1413 or alternatively by a modem, DSL, or ISDN interface. Computer program products can include instructions, control logic, and program information transferred over a network (usually floppy (registered trademark) disks, CDs, etc. in addition to volatile and non-volatile memory). Storage or transfer to existing storage media).

  Typically, in order to optimize the entire club set with prior art gap analysis, an individual can have multiple clubs (e.g., four or more clubs) so that the golf club fitter can estimate the distance of the club where the individual has not shot. You may have to hit a shot in the club). In contrast, with the apparatus, method, and system described herein (compatible system 100), golfing is accomplished by hitting a shot with a small number of clubs, eg, three clubs (metalwood, iron, wedge, etc.). Accurate gap analysis of the entire club set. For example, the devices, methods, and systems described herein recommend a “best” club to achieve a complete club set (eg, 14 golf clubs), while at the same time making player preferences, uniform In consideration of the gap and the skill of the player, the trajectory of each club constituting the complete club set can be appropriately maintained.

  Furthermore, most of the conventional methods are subjective and many performance trends cannot be accurately predicted, such as long iron performance degradation and the effect of other conditions on gap analysis. Normally, the balance between the carry distance and the total distance of a golf shot is difficult for a golf club fitter to judge, and it is difficult for an individual who fits a golf club to understand. The techniques described herein allow a golf club fitter to quickly and easily identify and confirm the carry distance and total distance of a golf shot.

  With data from the tracking device 120 and analysis routines (eg, executed by the processor 130), the devices, methods, and systems described herein (fitting system 10) allow the ball trajectory of the club where the individual shot the shot. Further, the fitting system 100 of the present embodiment compares the ball performance of other clubs in the golf club set by comparing the individual performance with the player data stored in the database 290. Can be modeled and predicted. The techniques described herein may also provide golf club fitters with relative shot variance, shot profiles compared to optimal ranges, and 3D shot information from various viewpoints. The techniques described herein can provide more tools for golf club fitting analysis and make the golf club set recommendations reliable.

  Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the above sequence of processes can be performed equally in any order to achieve the desired result. In addition, the sub-process can be omitted as necessary without reducing the effect of the overall function of the above-described process.

Although the process is shown in a particular order in the figure, these processes can also be performed in other temporal order. For example, the illustrated two or more processes may be executed sequentially, simultaneously, or simultaneously. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.
(Second Embodiment)

  In the example of FIGS. 15 and 16, the fitting system 2100 can include an input device 2110, a tracking device 2120 (eg, a ball launch monitor and / or ball trajectory monitor), and a processing device 2130. Input device 2110 and tracking device 2120 may be connected to processing device 2130 via a wireless connection and / or a wired connection. With the fitting system 2100, a driver type golf club, a fairway wood type golf club, a hybrid type golf club, an iron type golf club, a wedge type golf club, a putter type golf club, and / or other Various golf club fittings can be performed, such as an appropriate type of golf club.

  In general, the input device 2110 can assist the interview portion of a custom fitting session. Information relating to the physical and performance characteristics (eg, physical characteristic information 2210 and performance characteristic information 2220 of FIG. 16) of the individual 2140 fitting one or more golf clubs via the input device 2110 The input device 2110 may be connected to the processing device 2130 (eg, via one or more wired and / or wireless connections) so that input to the 2130 is possible. In one example, the physical property information 2210 includes gender (eg, male or female), age, dominant hand (eg, left or right hand), hand dimensions (eg, dominant hand size, longest finger, etc.), height (eg, Head to toe), wrist to floor distance, and / or other suitable characteristics. The performance characteristic information 2220 includes an average carry distance of one or more golf clubs (for example, an average carry distance of shots shot by an individual using a driver golf club, a 7 iron golf club, etc.), Golf handicap, number of rounds played per specific period (eg, month, quarter, year), golf performance (eg, flight distance, direction, trajectory, shot pattern), and / or other suitable Characteristics can be included. The input device 2110 allows an individual to input data and commands to the processing device 2130. For example, the input device 2110 can be implemented by a keyboard, mouse, display with touch sensor, trackpad, trackball, voice recognition system, and / or other suitable human interface device (HID). The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  The tracking device 2120 can measure a characteristic (shot characteristic information 2230 in FIG. 16) regarding a shot of a golf ball hit using a specific golf club. In order to provide shot characteristics information 2230 to processing device 2130, tracking device 2120 is connected to processing device 2130 via one or more wired and / or wireless connections. For example, the shot characteristic information 2230 includes the speed of the golf club during the shot, the speed of the golf ball in response to the hit with the golf club, the launch angle of the ball in response to the hit with the golf club, and the hit with the golf club. Golf ball backspin in response, golf ball side spin in response to golf club hit, golf ball smash factor (eg, golf ball speed divided by golf club head speed), total shot distance , Shot bends (eg, bends in the initial direction and due to side spin), shot off-center distances, and / or other suitable shot characteristics. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  The processing device 2130 can include a ballistic analyzer 2240, a shot dispersion analyzer 2250, a component option analyzer 2260, and a gap analyzer 2270. The processing device 2130 can also include a graphical user interface 2280 and a database 2290. Ballistic analyzer 2240, shot dispersion analyzer 2250, component option analyzer 2260, gap analyzer 2270, graphical user interface 2280, and / or database 2290 can communicate with each other via bus 2295. As will be described below, the processor 2130 presents a recommended product based on the physical property information 2210, the performance property information 2220, and / or the shot property information 2230 and provides the individual 2140 with one or more golf clubs. Can be custom fitted. In general, the ballistic analyzer 2240 analyzes the shot characteristic information 2230 and the like to generate a two-dimensional ballistic display (2320 in FIG. 19) and a three-dimensional ballistic display (2310 in FIG. 18). The shot dispersion analyzer 2250 analyzes the shot characteristic information 2230 in order to generate a shot dispersion display section (for example, a display section displayed as 2330 in FIG. 20). Component option analyzer 2260 analyzes physical characteristic information 2210, performance characteristic information 2220, and / or shot characteristic information 2230 to identify options appropriate for one or more components of the golf club. . The gap analyzer 2270 may include a golf club set in which a gap distance between two adjacent golf clubs in the golf club set is substantially uniform, and / or a transition of the gap distance in the golf club set (eg, Physical characteristic information 2210, performance characteristic information 2220, and / or shot characteristic information to identify a gap distance between two adjacent golf clubs that may or may not widen throughout the set. 2230 is analyzed. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  In FIG. 16, one or more components are represented as individual steps, but two or more components of the processing device 2130 may be integrated into one step. In FIG. 16, certain components are integrated within the processing device 2130, but one or more components can be independent of the processing device 2130. In one example, database 2290 can be integrated into a central server (not shown), and processing unit 2130 can download information from database 2290 to local storage or memory (not shown). The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  Referring now to FIG. 17, for example, the graphical user interface 2280 can generate a plurality of displays 2300 (generally displayed simultaneously or simultaneously as 2310, 2320, 2330, and 2340). For example, the plurality of display units 2300 may include a three-dimensional ballistic display unit 2310, a two-dimensional ballistic display unit 2320, a shot dispersion display unit 2330, and a component option display unit 2340. In general, the plurality of displays 2300 can provide virtual drawings and / or information related to a custom fitting session of a golf club. FIG. 17 shows a specific number of display units, but virtual drawings and / or information related to a custom fitting session of a golf club by increasing or decreasing the number of display units included in the plurality of display units 2300. Can be provided. FIG. 17 shows a specific configuration and size for a plurality of display units 2300, but the graphical user interface 2280 may generate a plurality of display units 2300 with other different configurations, sizes, and the like. it can. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  In the example of FIG. 18, the three-dimensional ballistic display 2310 is displayed as one or more ballistics 2400 (usually 2410, 2420, 2430) from the initial position 2440 of the golf ball associated with a particular golf club. Can be generated. That is, the three-dimensional trajectory display unit 2310 can generate the trajectory 2400 from the viewpoint of the individual 2140 hitting the golf ball and / or from the viewpoint of someone else located near the individual 2140. In one example, the three-dimensional trajectory display unit 2310 includes a first trajectory 2410 that shows a first golf ball shot using a specific golf club and a second golf ball shot that uses the same golf club. , And a third trajectory 2430 showing a third golf ball shot using the same golf club.

  In FIG. 18, the first trajectory 2410, the second trajectory 2420, and the third trajectory 2430 are depicted by solid lines, broken lines, and dotted lines, respectively, but the trajectory 2400 is a type of color and / or shadow. It may be expressed by. In one example, the first trajectory 2410 is shown in a first color (eg, red), the second trajectory 2420 is shown in a second color (eg, blue), and the third trajectory 2430 is shown in a third color ( For example, yellow). In another example, the first trajectory 2410 may be associated with a first golf club, the second trajectory 2420 may be associated with a second golf club, and the third trajectory 2430 may be associated with a third golf club. Good. As described in detail below, the first golf club, the second golf club, and the third golf club have one or more component options (eg, model, loft, lie, shaft, length , Grip, rebound, and weight (eg, swing weight) may be different from each other. In particular, the first trajectory 2410 can indicate an average of a plurality of shots associated with the first golf club. The second trajectory 2420 can indicate an average of a plurality of shots associated with the second golf club. Third trajectory 2430 may indicate an average of a plurality of shots associated with the third golf club. Accordingly, the first trajectory 2410 is shown in a first color (eg, red), the second trajectory 2420 is shown in a second color (eg, blue), and the third trajectory 2430 is shown in a third color (eg, red). , Yellow). Although the above examples describe specific colors, the methods, apparatus, and systems described herein can be used with other suitable rendering methods, such as shade types.

  The three-dimensional ballistic display unit 2310 can provide environmental information (for example, altitude, wind speed, humidity, and / or temperature) of the location of the custom fitting session in addition to the above-described ballistic information. Although FIG. 18 and the above example depict and describe three ballistics, the methods, devices, and systems described herein can increase or decrease the number of ballistics. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  Referring to FIG. 19, for example, the two-dimensional trajectory display unit 2320 generates one or more trajectories 2500 (usually displayed as 2510, 2520, and 2530) for the optimal trajectory range 2540. be able to. In FIG. 19, the optimal trajectory range 2540 is depicted by a dotted line, but the optimal trajectory range 2540 may be depicted as a gray scale band. In particular, the optimal trajectory range 2540 can be based on the optimal trajectory and tolerances. An upper limit 2542 and a lower limit 2544 can define tolerances for the optimal trajectory. The two-dimensional trajectory display unit 2320 can provide a side view of the trajectory 2500. In particular, each of the trajectories 2500 can show a shot using a specific golf club. For example, a first trajectory 2510 can indicate the trajectory of a first shot using a golf club. The second trajectory 2520 can indicate the trajectory of the second shot using the same golf club. The third trajectory 2530 can indicate the trajectory of a third shot using the same golf club. Alternatively, each of the trajectories 2500 can indicate an average of a plurality of shots associated with the golf club. For example, the first trajectory 2510 can indicate an average of a plurality of shots associated with the first golf club. Second trajectory 2520 may indicate an average of a plurality of shots associated with a second golf club (different from the first golf club). Third trajectory 2530 may indicate an average of a plurality of shots associated with a third golf club (different from the first and second golf clubs). In particular, as described below, the first, second, and third golf clubs may include one or more component options (eg, model, loft, lie, shaft, length, grip, rebound, weight) Etc.) may be different. Optimal trajectory range 2540 can indicate an individual's target range using specific swing parameters (eg, swing speed, ball speed, etc.). Thus, the trajectory 2500 can be compared to the optimal trajectory range 2540.

  In addition to the above-mentioned ballistic information, the two-dimensional ballistic display unit 2320 includes shot information related to each shot (eg, club speed, ball speed, smash factor, launch angle, backspin, side spin, vertical landing angle, offline Distance, carry distance, etc.). In addition, the two-dimensional trajectory display unit 2320 can expand or hide shot information related to a series of shots. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  Referring now to FIG. 20, the shot variance display 2330 can generate one or more perimeters 2600 (typically displayed as 2610 and 2620) associated with the shot variance. In each perimeter of perimeter 2600, two or more shots obtained using a particular golf club can be shown (eg, a dispersion eye). Each perimeter can also be used to surround a certain percentage of shots (eg 90%) that fall within the range, whereas multiple shots (eg 10%) are outside that particular perimeter Can be displayed.

  In one example, the shot distribution display unit 2330 is associated with a first outer periphery 2610 containing a plurality of shots associated with the first golf club, and a second golf club (different from the first golf club). A second outer perimeter 2620 containing a plurality of shots can be generated. In particular, one or more component options (eg, model, loft, lie, shaft, length, grip, bounce, weight, etc.) of the first golf club and the second golf club, as described in detail below. ) May be different from each other. The first outer periphery 2610 may be indicated by a first color (eg, blue) and the second outer periphery 2620 may be indicated by a second color (eg, red).

  Shot distribution display 2330 can provide a centerline 2630 to represent a substantially straight shot (eg, a shot displayed as 2640). By using the center line 2630, the off-line distance 2650 of each shot can be determined. A shot on the left side of the center line 2630 is a hook shot, a draw shot, or a pull shot, while a shot on the right side of the center line 2630 is a slice shot, a fade shot, or a push shot. For example, the shot surrounded by the first perimeter 2610 may include a hook shot, a draw shot, and / or a pull shot. Shots surrounded by the second perimeter 2620 may include draw shots, slice shots, or fade shots and / or push shots.

  Although FIG. 20 depicts an elliptical perimeter, the methods, apparatus, and systems described herein can also include perimeters of other suitable shapes (eg, circles, rectangles, etc.). The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  The component option display portion 2340 can display one or more options related to one or more components of the golf club. In one example, the component option display 2340 may include one or more of the driver-type golf clubs presented by the manufacturer based on physical characteristic information, performance characteristic information, and / or shot characteristic information corresponding to the individual 2140. Multiple models can be shown. In particular, the component option analyzer 2260 can identify a particular model based on the golf club swing speed and the gender of the individual 2140 (eg, model options). The component option analyzer 2260 may identify one or more lofts that are presented by the manufacturer along with the selected model option based on the selected model option (eg, a loft option). In addition, component option analyzer 2260 can also provide selected model options and one or more types of shafts (eg, regular, stiff, extrastiff, soft) corresponding to the selected loft options. (Eg shaft option). For example, the component option analyzer 2260 can identify shaft options based on the swing speed of the individual 2140. Based on the selected model option, the selected loft option, and the selected shaft option, the component option analyzer 2260 may select one or more corresponding to the model option, the loft option, and the shaft option. Multiple lengths can be specified. The component option analyzer 2260 also identifies one or more grips corresponding to the selected model option, the selected loft option, the selected shaft option, and the selected length option. Can do. For example, in the case of an individual 2140 who wants to make a straight trajectory because the shot's trajectory is sliced, the component option analyzer 2260 can allow the individual 2140 to achieve a ball trajectory with less bending (eg, low side spin). A relatively thin grip can be specified. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  The component option analyzer 2260 and / or component option display 2340 is used in conjunction with a replaceable club head and shaft system to identify the optimal options for each component of the golf club. The component option analyzer 2260 may determine the best option for a particular component by changing various options of a particular component of the golf club with the other components fixed. it can. In one example, by using various clubs with different lofts in the same model, the loft most suitable for the individual can be determined.

  During the fitting session, the processing device 2130 may also receive environmental property information 2235 (FIG. 15) via the input device 2110 to allow the individual 2140 to have a virtual experience. Thereby, the processing device 2130 can generate a visual display (for example, via a plurality of display units 2300) of an environment in which the individual 2140 may play golf for one round. For example, the environmental characteristic information 2235 includes golf ball conditions (for example, golf ball brand (high quality golf ball, non-high quality golf ball, etc.), golf ball structure (two-piece ball, multilayer ball, etc.), Golf ball type (distance ball, spin control ball, etc.), golf ball cover (surlyn cover, urethane cover, etc.)), weather conditions (temperature, humidity, wind, etc.), golf course conditions (elevation of golf course, golf) Course fairway surface conditions, golf course green surface conditions, etc.) and / or other suitable environmental conditions when playing a round of golf.

  In one example, the individual 2140 is typically considered to play on a golf course that is at a relatively high elevation, but the fitting session may be conducted at a relatively low elevation. Accordingly, the processing device 2130 can receive environmental characteristic information 2235 (eg, via the input device 2110) such as an approximate value of the elevation of such a golf course. The ballistic analyzer 2240 and / or the shot dispersion analyzer 2250 can generate a visual representation on the plurality of display units 2300 based on the approximate altitude value at the time of performing the fitting session. As a result, the processing device 2130 generates shot trajectory information in order to generate a trajectory 2400 in the three-dimensional ballistic display unit 2310, a trajectory 2500 in the two-dimensional ballistic display unit 2320, and / or an outer periphery 2600 in the shot dispersion display unit 2330. 2230 (eg, acquired via tracking device 2120) and environmental property information 2235 can be used.

  In another example, an individual 2140 may typically use a particular brand of high quality golf ball during a round of golf. Individual 2140 may hit a golf ball that is not of high quality (eg, a ball for a driving range) during a fitting session, but processing device 2130 may (eg, via ballistic analyzer 2240 and / or shot dispersion analyzer 2250). ) A virtual representation can be provided as if an individual 2140 used a particular brand of high quality golf ball during a fitting session. For example, an individual 2140 may hit a non-quality golf ball during a fitting session, but the ballistic analyzer 2240 may have a trajectory 2400 on the 3D trajectory display 2310 and / or a trajectory on the 2D trajectory display 2320. Data related to a particular brand of high quality golf ball and shot characteristic information 2230 can be used to generate 2500. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  Although the above example describes a fitting system 2100 for custom fitting a golf club to an individual 2140, the methods, devices, and systems described herein may be used in other suitable forms. The processing device 2130 may provide a multimedia display unit for information provision or education in addition to or instead of the component option display unit 2340. For example, the multimedia display unit may provide a video explaining various modes such as golf clubs and golf play. In this manner, the processor 2130 can provide information analysis or educational analysis instead of or in addition to providing recommended products for one or more golf clubs.

  FIG. 21 illustrates the processing device 2130 of FIG. 15 to identify a golf club suitable for the individual 2140 based on the physical characteristic information 2210, performance characteristic information 2220, and / or shot characteristic information 2230 associated with the individual 2140. 1 shows one way that can be configured. The exemplary process 2700 is stored in any combination of machine-accessible media, such as volatile memory, non-volatile memory, or other mass storage device (eg, floppy disk, CD, DVD). Can be implemented as machine accessible instructions using any of a variety of programming codes. For example, the implementation of machine accessible instructions includes programmable gate arrays, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), cancellation / programmable read only memory (EPROM), read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), It can be performed by machine accessible media such as magnetic media, optical media, and / or other suitable types of media.

  Although FIG. 21 shows processes in a specific order, these processes can also be executed in other temporal orders. Also, the exemplary process 2700 is only provided and described as an example of one method for recommending a golf club to an individual 2140 in connection with the processing device 2130 of FIGS. 15 and 16. The example process 2700 uses a replaceable component system (e.g., a replaceable club head / shaft system) to combine various options (e.g., model, Loft, lie, shaft, length, grip, bounce, and / or weight) can also be provided.

In the example of FIG. 21, process 2700 may begin by identifying options for each of a plurality of components of a golf club (eg, via processing device 2130 of FIGS. 15 and 16) (steps). 2710). Options for each component can be specified according to the content stored in the database 2290. In general, the process 2700 separates each of the plurality of components to identify the optimal option for each of the plurality of components so that independent processing is performed for each component. Can do. That is, an individual 2140 can shot a golf ball one or more times using a golf club with the first option of the first component. In one example, the fitting system 2100 (FIG. 15) can cause a driver 2 type golf club to be fitted to an individual 2140. Accordingly, the component option analyzer 2260 can identify a specific model for the individual 2140 based on the physical characteristic information 2210 and the performance characteristic information 2220. Process 2700 may monitor one or more shots (via tracking device 2120 of FIG. 15) based on a first option (eg, A ₁ ) of the first component (step 2720).

The component option analyzer 2230 can determine whether the first option (eg, A ₁ ) is most suitable for the first component based on the shot result obtained in step 2720 (step 2730). The determination in step 2730 can be performed based on the same criteria as in the determination in step 1230 of the first embodiment. If the first option is not the most suitable option for the first component, the process 2700 proceeds to the next step and identifies the _second option (eg, A ₂ ) as the first component (step 2740). ). Process 2700 may continue to execute the loop as described above until component option analyzer 2260 identifies the most appropriate option (eg, A _N ) for the first component.

Returning to step 2730, if the first option is most appropriate for the first component, the process 2700 proceeds to the next step, based on the option that is optimal for the first component. Options for two components may be identified (step 2750). For example, in process 2700, the optimal loft corresponding to the optimal model can be identified. In step 2700, one or more shots based on the club incorporating the _first option of the second component (eg, B ₁ ) are made (eg, via the launch monitor of the tracking device 2120 of FIG. 15). ) Can be monitored (step 2760).

Component option analyzer 2230 can determine whether the first option (eg, B ₁ ) is most suitable for the second component based on the shot results obtained from step 2760 ( Step 2770). The determination in step 2770 can be performed based on the same criteria as in the determination in step 1230 of the first embodiment. If the first option is not the most suitable option for the second component, process 2700 proceeds to the next step and identifies a _second option (eg, B ₂ ) for the second component (step 2780). ). Process 2700 may continue to execute the loop as described above until component option analyzer 2260 identifies an appropriate option (eg, B _N ) for the second component.

Returning to step 2770, if the first option is determined to be an appropriate option for the second component, the process 2700 proceeds to the next step, for the first and second components. Optimal options (eg, A _N , B _N ) can be identified (step 2790).

  Although FIG. 21 illustrates a method for identifying optimal options for two components, the methods, apparatus, and systems described herein provide optimal options for three or more components. It can also be specified. FIG. 21 shows the processes in a specific order, but these processes can also be executed in other temporal orders. For example, the two or more processes shown in FIG. 21 may be executed sequentially, simultaneously, or simultaneously. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

As described above, the process 2700 may first identify the optimal options for the first component. In response to identifying the optimal option for the first component, process 2700 may identify the optimal option for the next component based on the optimal option for that component. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 22, the process 2800 can identify the optimal option of a component independently of the optimal option of another component. Process 2800 may begin by identifying options for each of a plurality of golf club components (step 2810). The processor 2800 may monitor one or more shots (eg, via the launch monitor of the tracking device 2120 of FIG. 15) based on a first option (eg, A ₁ ) of the first component. Yes (step 2820).

The component option analyzer 2230 can determine whether the first option (eg, A ₁ ) is the optimal option for the first component based on the shot result obtained in step 2820 (step 2830). If the first option is not the optimal option for the first component, the process 2800 can proceed to the next step to identify a _second option (eg, A ₂ ) for the first component. (Step 2840). Until the component option analyzer 2260 identifies the best option (eg, A _N ) for the first component, the process 2800 can continuously loop as described above.

Returning to step 2830, if the first option is determined to be the optimal option for the first component, the process 2800 proceeds to the next step, from the optimal option for the first component. Independent second component options may be identified (step 2850). Process 2800 may monitor one or more shots (eg, via tracking device 2120 of FIG. 15) based on a first option (eg, B ₁ ) of the second component (step 2860). ).

The component option analyzer 2230 can determine whether the first option (eg, B ₁ ) is the best option for the second component based on the shot result obtained from step 2860. (Step 2870). If the first option is not the optimal option for the second component, the process 2800 may proceed to the next step to identify a _second option (eg, B ₂ ) for the second component ( Step 2880). Process 2800 may continue to execute the loop as described above until component option analyzer 2260 identifies the best option (eg, B _N ) for the second component.

Returning to step 2870, if the first option is the best option for the second component, the process 2800 proceeds to the next step to select the best option for the first and second components ( For example, A _N , B _N ) can be identified (step 2890).

  Although FIG. 22 illustrates a method for identifying the best option for two components, the method, apparatus, and system described herein are most suitable for more than two components. You can also specify options. Although the processes are shown in a specific order in FIG. 22, these processes can be executed in other temporal orders. For example, the two or more processes shown in FIG. 22 may be executed sequentially or simultaneously. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  In the example of FIGS. 23 and 24, the processing unit 2130 can generate one or more gap analysis displays (typically displayed as 2900 and 3000). Gap analysis displays 2900 and 3000 each visually display at least one gap distance between two shots hit using different golf clubs (eg, two golf clubs in a set). (Generally displayed as 2905 and 3005). The gap distance 2905 can be the difference in carry distance between two shots hit by two different golf clubs. In one example, an individual 2140 can hit a golf ball with a 6 iron golf club to achieve a flying distance of 150 yards, and an individual 2140 can hit a golf ball with a 5 iron golf club and fly 160 yards. You can get a distance. Therefore, the gap distance 2905 between the 5 iron golf club and the 6 iron golf club is 10 yards. Further, generally, the carry distance shown as 2910 and 2920 in FIG. 23 can be the travel distance of the golf ball from hitting by the golf club to landing. Thus, the gap distance 2905 can be the difference between the carry distance 2910 corresponding to the first shot 2915 and the carry distance 2920 corresponding to the second shot 2925. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 24, the gap distance 3005 can be a difference in total distance between two shots shot with two different golf clubs. In particular, the gap distance 3005 can be a difference in total distance between two shots hit with two different golf clubs. In general, the total distance displayed as 3010 and 3020 is the carry distance 2920 and 2930, respectively, plus the distance traveled by the golf ball from landing to resting in its final position. be able to. Therefore, the gap distance 3005 can be the difference between the total distance 3010 corresponding to the first shot 2915 and the total distance 3020 corresponding to the second shot 2925. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  The number of golf clubs that can be used by the individual 2140 during a golf round (for example, the number of golf clubs that the individual 2140 can carry in a golf bag) is defined by the golf rule defining group. For example, an individual 2140 is allowed to carry a maximum of 14 golf clubs in a golf bag. However, an individual 2140 may not always be able to effectively use all 14 clubs. As described in detail below, gaps between shots of various golf clubs in the set (eg, fairway wood type golf clubs, hybrid type golf clubs, iron type golf clubs, wedge type golf clubs, etc.) By maintaining uniformity, the performance of the individual 2140 can be supported. Alternatively, an individual 2140 may own, use, and / or purchase 15 or more golf clubs and replace the clubs based on course conditions.

  In general, gap analyzer 2270 (FIG. 16) can analyze physical characteristic information 2210, performance characteristic information 22220, and / or shot characteristic information 230 to provide a golf club set with uniform gaps. Gap analyzer 2270 uses shot characteristic information 2230 (eg, ball speed, ball launch angle, ball spin rate of two or more shots associated with two or more golf clubs) in addition to individual 2140 swing speed. Thus, the ball launch parameters (for example, ball speed, ball launch angle, ball spin rate, etc.) can be calculated and estimated for other golf clubs that can be used by the individual 2140. In one example, the individual 2140 can hit two or more shots using a first golf club (eg, a 7 iron). The individual 2140 can also hit two or more shots using a second golf club (eg, hybrid 22 °). Gap analyzer 2270 may provide various golf clubs for individual 2140 based on shot characteristic information 2230 for these shots and reference data regarding golf clubs that individual 2140 is not using for any shots during the fitting process. The ball launch parameters can be simulated. For example, the reference data can be calculated and / or measured based on shots shot by other individuals. The reference data can be stored in the database 2290 (FIG. 16). The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  Referring to FIG. 25, for example, the gap analyzer 2270 can identify a plurality of golf clubs that implement an associated set with a substantially uniform gap distance. In one example, the gap distance can be the difference between the two carry distances of two adjacent clubs. In particular, the gap analyzer 2270 can identify a set of 12 golf clubs in which the gap distance between two adjacent golf clubs of the golf club set is substantially uniform (eg, a driver type golf club). Clubs and putter-type golf clubs are excluded). In accordance with the above embodiment, for an individual 2140, the gap distance 3110 between the 8 iron golf club and the 7 iron golf club can be set to 10 yards (the carry distance is 130 yards and 140 yards, respectively). ). Thus, the substantially uniform gap distance between two adjacent golf clubs in the set can also be about 10 yards. As shown in the table, the gap distance 3120 between the 7-iron golf club and the 6-iron golf club can be 10 yards (for example, the carry distance is 140 yards and 150 yards, respectively). Similarly, the gap distance 3130 between the 6 iron golf club and the 5 iron golf club can be 10 yards (for example, the carry distance is 150 yards and 160 yards, respectively).

  In contrast to gap distances 3110, 3120, and 3130, the gap distance 3140 between a 5 iron golf club and a 4 iron golf club for an individual 2140 is shorter than a substantially uniform gap distance of 10 yards. There is a case. Therefore, since the gap distance 3140 between the 5 iron golf club and the 4 iron golf club is shorter than the uniform gap distance of 10 yards, the gap analyzer 2270 replaces the 4 iron golf club with a hybrid golf club. Can be identified for an individual 2140. The gap analyzer 2270 is a gap distance between the 5 iron golf club and the hybrid 22 ° golf club in order to maintain the gap distance between the 5 iron golf club and the next golf club at 10 yards in the set. However, since the carry distance of the 5-iron golf club and the hybrid 22 ° golf club is 160 yards and 170 yards, respectively, the hybrid 22 ° golf club can be specified. In another example, the gap analyzer 2270 may have a hybrid 22 ° golf club having a gap distance of 10 yards (eg, carry distances of 170 yards and 180 yards, respectively), compared to a hybrid 22 ° golf club and a hybrid 18 ° golf club. The gap distance between the golf club and the hybrid 15 ° golf club is 15 yards (for example, the carry distance is 170 yards and 185 yards, respectively), so the hybrid 18 ° golf club is identified instead of the hybrid 15 ° golf club. can do. The gap analyzer 2270 applies shot characteristic information 2230 (for example, ball speed, ball launch angle, ball spin rate, etc.) in addition to the swing speed of the individual 2140, so that two adjacent golf clubs in the set A substantially uniform gap distance between them can be realized.

  Alternatively, the gap analyzer 2270 can identify the transition of the gap distance in the golf club set (eg, the gap distance between two adjacent golf clubs in the set can be widened or narrowed through the set. Is possible). In particular, the gap analyzer 2270 can identify a first gap distance in a first golf club group in the set and a second gap distance in a second golf club group in the same set. In one example, the gap analyzer 2270 may identify a first gap distance (8 yards) for a wedge type golf club in a set and a second gap distance (10 yards) for an iron type golf club. Further, the gap analyzer 2270 can specify a third gap distance (15 yards) for a fairway wood type golf club.

  In the above embodiment, the gap distance is described as a difference between two carry distances between two adjacent clubs. However, the gap distance may be a difference between two total distances between two adjacent clubs. The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  In the example of FIG. 26, process 3200 may begin by receiving physical characteristic information 2210 associated with individual 2140 (eg, via input device 2110) (step 3210). At step 3200, performance characteristic information 2220 associated with individual 2140 may also be received (eg, via input device 2110) (step 3220). Further, process 3200 can receive shot characteristic information 2230 associated with individual 2140 (eg, via tracking device 2120) (step 3230). The process 3200 can also receive environmental property information 2235 associated with the individual 2140 (eg, via the tracking device 2120) (step 3235).

  Process 3200 may include (eg, via ballistic analyzer 2240, shot dispersion analyzer 2250, component option analyzer 2260, and / or graphical user interface 2280) physical characteristic information 2210, performance characteristic information 2220, shot characteristic information 2230, and A plurality of display units 2300 can be generated based on / or environmental characteristic information 2235 (step 3240). Process 3200 may also identify optimal options associated with one or more components of the golf club (eg, via component option analyzer 2260) (step 3250). Further, process 3200 may identify a golf club set using the gap distance between two adjacent golf clubs in the set (eg, via gap analyzer 2270) (step 3260). As described above, the gap distance can be substantially uniform throughout the golf club set. Alternatively, the gap distance can be gradually increased or decreased based on the type of golf club throughout the golf club set.

  In FIG. 26, the processes are shown in a specific order, but these processes may be executed in other temporal orders. For example, the two or more processes shown in FIG. 26 may be executed sequentially, simultaneously, or simultaneously. Also, one or more processes shown in FIG. 26 may not be executed at all. In one example, process 3200 may not perform step 3260 (eg, process 3200 may end after step 3250). The methods, apparatus, and systems described herein are not limited in this regard.

  By using a combination of the above characteristic information (for example, physical characteristic information 2210, performance characteristic information 2220, shot characteristic information 2230, environmental characteristic information 2235), it is possible to customize the golf club according to the individual. Yes, as a result, performance can be maximized. A plurality of display units 2300 including a three-dimensional ballistic display unit 2310, a two-dimensional ballistic display unit 2320, and a shot dispersion display unit 2330 can provide a virtual experience during a fitting session. Each shot in the fitting session is displayed in various ways, so that the golf club fitter can analyze the fitting message from various viewpoints as much as possible and transmit the fitting message to the individual. In each of the display units 2310, 2320, and 2330, for example, shots can be displayed individually, or can be displayed as an average of clubs used for hitting shots. When not using the apparatus, method, and system described herein (fitting system 2100), a golf club fitter may have different characteristics of a golf shot (spin, total distance, carry distance, offline, distributed, depending on the particular club configuration. In order to determine whether or not a change has been made by comparison with the configuration of other clubs, the result is estimated largely depending on the tabular data from the tracking device 210. The apparatus, method and system described herein (adaptation system 2100) provides golf club fitters and / or individuals with visual tools so that the results of a golf shot can be verified and visually grouped The values can be easily compared.

  A combination of these characteristic information, ie, physical characteristic information 2210 (related to at least one of individual gender, age, dominant hand, hand size, height, or wrist-to-floor distance) and performance characteristic information 2220 (Related to at least one of an average carry distance of one or more golf clubs, a golf handicap, or a golf preference (corresponding to individual distance, direction, trajectory, or shot pattern)) and shot characteristics Information 2230 (the speed of the golf club at the time of the shot, the speed of the golf ball in response to the hit of the golf club, the launch angle of the golf ball in response to the hit of the golf club, the backspin of the golf ball in response to the hit of the golf club, Golf ball side spin in response to golf club hit, golf ball smash fact In conjunction with at least one of shot total distance, shot bend, or off-center distance of shots by individuals) makes golf clubs more suitable for individuals who have custom-fitted golf clubs It can be useful additional information for customization. With additional information, the golf club can be more appropriately customized to meet individual needs and requirements. In addition, the component option analyzer 2260 can take into account personal preferences and skills in addition to physically shots and clubs used when presenting recommended products. Even without using the apparatus, methods, and systems described herein (e.g., the adaptation system 2100), a golf club fitter can perform such analysis and recommended product presentation manually, In this case, the skill of the club fitter is the basis, and there is a possibility that there will be a large variation due to the preconception. Further, if the devices, methods, and systems described herein (eg, compliant system 2100) are not used, an individual may not be able to confirm the basis for selection and may be anxious when making a purchase decision. Absent.

  In addition to the above functions, the environmental characteristic information 2235 can also be useful additional information for more appropriately customizing the golf club for the individual. Therefore, in a fitting session, virtual experiences of various golf clubs can be provided to individuals. Since multiple displays 2300 are provided, the golf club fitter may select an appropriate tool to indicate what is being communicated to the individual who is fitting the golf club. become able to.

  In one example, if the individual shot is very high (eg, when drifting in the air), the golf club fitter uses the two-dimensional display 2320 to place the individual shot in the optimal band (optimal ballistic range 540). Can be compared. Therefore, since the shot is too high and the carry distance and / or the rolling distance is lost, the reason why the maximum distance cannot be obtained can be confirmed. In addition, the golf club fitter uses the shot dispersion display unit 2330 to check the first group shot hit by the first club and the second group shot hit by the second club, and Based on the distribution result, the first club or the second club can be recommended.

  The trajectory display can provide a variety of graphical representations about an individual's shots, which allows the golf club to be more appropriately customized for the individual. Further, the three-dimensional display unit 2310 allows the golf club fitter to display shots from various angles and to display the landing angles of the shots.

  The two-dimensional display unit 2320 can generate one or a plurality of trajectories 2500 for the optimal trajectory range 2540. Individuals 2140 and golf club fitters can easily compare the trajectory associated with individual 2140 with the optimal trajectory range 2540. Further, the two-dimensional display unit 2320 can make it easy for the golf club fitter to compare the shape of the individual golf shot and the optimum shot band.

  The shot distribution display 2330 may indicate a representative type of shot (eg, hook, draw, pull, slice, face, or push shot) associated with the individual 2140 so that the fitting for the individual 2140 is performed correctly. it can. In addition, the golf club fitter uses the shot dispersion display unit 2330 to check the first group shot hit with the first club and the second group shot hit with the second club, The first club or the second club can be recommended based on the distribution result.

  Component option analyzer 2340 and component option display 2340 each identify various golf club options (eg, model, loft, lie, shaft, length, grip, bounce, weight, etc.) for individual 2140 and Can be displayed, allowing individuals 2140 to make a selection from those options and play using a customized golf club to maximize performance. For example, the component option analyzer 2340 may be used for an individual 2140 based on personal 2140 preferences, workmanship, and shots shot by the individual 2140 using known combinations of club heads, shafts, and / or grips. A combination of a club head, a shaft and a grip that are optimized for the above can be recommended.

  Although specific embodiments of methods, apparatus, systems, and / or articles of manufacture have been described herein, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Rather, the present disclosure covers all methods, devices, systems, and / or articles of manufacture that fall literally or equivalently within the scope of the appended claims.

110: input device 120: tracking device 130: processing device 150: display device 210: physical characteristic information 220: performance characteristic information 230: shot characteristic information 240: ballistic analyzer 250: shot dispersion analyzer 260: component option analyzer 270: gap Ping analyzer 280: Graphical user interface 290: Database 300: Display unit

Claims (27)

Identifying a golf preference associated with an individual that includes one or more target gap distances , including the gap distance between adjacent clubs ;
A receiving step of receiving a golf ball shot characteristic information including a golf ball launch condition data obtained from a golf shot at least once in the individual who has access to the club subsetting,
Determining a golf club set proposal indicative of the one or more target gap distances between adjacent clubs by evaluating the golf preference and the golf ball shot characteristic information associated with the individual; and
With
The club subset includes fewer golf clubs than the proposed golf club set,
The determining step of determining the golf club set proposal includes:
Based on the gap distance to the one or more targets, the gap analyzer is configured to identify a plurality of golf clubs for the golf club set draft to the golf preferences and the golf ball shot characteristic information the method comprising the steps of: providing of access,
The gap analyzer accessing a database comprising a library of golf club parameters for a golf club;
A step for selecting the golf club set draft indicating a gap distance between said one or more targets, the Gorufukura blanking included in the library, is calculated by the gap analyzer,
Including. Generating at least one display representative of the one or more target gap distances indicated by at least a portion of the proposed golf club set;
The display is
A structural element option display showing options related to the structural elements of the golf club of the proposed golf club set ;
The method of claim 1, comprising at least one of a gap analysis display. The determination step, in order to achieve at least one of the gap distance of the gap distance between the one or more target, comprising the step of identifying the options for the components of the golf club of the golf club set draft,
The options regarding the components and models, and loft option, a shaft option comprises at least one optional grip option A method according to claim 1 or 2. The determination step, by the gap analyzer, comprising the step of the gap distance is to identify the golf club set draft is substantially uniform,
4. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more target gap distances comprise a substantially uniform gap distance. In order to select the golf club set proposal indicating the one or more target gap distances, calculating the golf clubs included in the library with the gap analyzer comprises:
By the gap analyzer, Ru comprising the step of identifying a set of golf clubs having a non-uniform gap distance A method according to any one of claims 1 to 3.   6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the one or more target gap distances are defined by a carry distance difference between adjacent clubs included in the proposed golf club set.   The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the one or more target gap distances are defined by a total distance difference between adjacent clubs included in the proposed golf club set.   The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the launch condition data is used to determine a ballistic pattern of a golf ball and a total travel distance of the golf ball.   The method according to claim 1, wherein the shot characteristic information includes golf ball trajectory information. The club subset is
A low loft subset club,
10. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising a high loft subset club. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the club subset further comprises an intermediate loft subset club. The gap analyzer includes a first type of first golf club plan and a second type of second golf club plan for the golf club set plan, wherein the first golf club plan and the second golf club plan. Identifying the first golf club proposal and the second golf club proposal having a first to second gap distance between
12. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first to second gap distances correspond to at least one gap distance of the one or more target gap distances. The first type golf club plan of the first type is any one of a wedge type, an iron type, a hybrid type, a fairway wood type, and a driver type,
The second type of second golf club plan is one type different from the first type of first golf club plan among the wedge type, iron type, hybrid type, fairway wood type and driver type. The method of claim 12.   14. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the club subset comprises at least two clubs.   14. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the club subset comprises at least three clubs. Calculated in order to determine the gap distance for a plurality of golf clubs, based on the determination of the gap distance between the club adjacent included in the golf club set proposal, calculating the set of golf clubs plan including a golf club proposal A processing device,
A tracking device connected to the processing device during a fitting session;
A system comprising:
The plurality of golf clubs are:
The golf club set proposal;
One or more measurement golf clubs that are hit during the fitting session and are to be measured, the number of measurement golf club subsets being less than the number of proposed golf club sets ,
A calculated golf club subset that has not been hit during the fitting session and is calculated; and
Said the decision of the gap distance golf club set proposal,
Actual shot characteristic information of the measured golf club subset measured by the tracking device using one or more actual fitting shots of the measured golf club subset;
Calculated shot characteristic information of the calculated golf club subset estimated by the processing device based on actual shot characteristic information of the measured golf club subset and catalog reference data of the calculated golf club subset;
The system calculated by the processing device based on A display device;
The display device, the display and the structural element option indication options for structural elements of a golf club of the golf club set draft, a gap analysis display, at least one of the system according to claim 16,. The processor is
A gap analyzer for generating the gap distance determination;
A database connected to the gap analyzer and comprising the catalog reference data of the calculated golf club subset;
The gap analyzer, a gap distance between the golf club adjacent groups out of the golf club proposed to calculate the set of golf clubs proposals relating to one or more of the gap distance to the target, according to claim 16 or 18. The system according to 17. The golf club plan comprises a first type of first golf club plan and a second type of second golf club plan different from the first type,
The first golf club plan and the second golf club plan have first to second gap distances between the first golf club plan and the second golf club plan,
The first and second golf club proposals may be arranged such that the gap analyzer reaches at least one gap distance of the one or more target gap distances based on the first to second gap distances. The system of claim 18, wherein: The first type golf club plan of the first type is any one of a wedge type, an iron type, a hybrid type, a fairway wood type, and a driver type,
The second type of second golf club plan is one type different from the first type of first golf club plan among the wedge type, iron type, hybrid type, fairway wood type and driver type. The system of claim 19. The processor is
Golf ball launch of shots for the one or more fittings, connected to the gap analyzer, to determine final shot characteristic information of the shots for the one or more fittings for shot ballistic display 21. A system according to any one of claims 18 to 20 comprising a ballistic analyzer for analyzing initial shot characteristic information from data. The processor is
Wherein is connected to the gap analyzer, to generate a shot variance information for the shot dispersion display comprises a shot dispersion analyzer for analyzing the shot characteristic information of the shot for the one or more fitting, claims The system according to any one of 18 to 21. The processor is
One or more pieces of information that are connected to the gap analyzer and that are personal physical characteristic information, personal performance characteristic information, and shot characteristic information of shots for the one or more fittings of the individual. 23. The system of any one of claims 18 to 22, comprising a component option analyzer that analyzes a golf club component option for one or more golf clubs of the proposed golf club. The proposed golf club set comprises both the measured golf club subset and the calculated golf club subset,
24. The system of any one of claims 16 to 23 , further comprising an input device that provides physical characteristic information and performance characteristic information to the processing device.   25. A system according to any one of claims 16 to 24, wherein the club subset comprises at least two clubs.   25. A method according to any one of claims 16 to 24, wherein the club subset comprises at least three clubs. The golf ball shot characteristic information is
First golf ball shot characteristic information including first golf ball launch condition data obtained from one or more golf shots using a first subset club of the club subset;
Second golf ball shot characteristic information including second golf ball launch condition data obtained from one or more golf shots using a second subset club of the club subset,
Calculating golf clubs included in the library to select the proposed golf club set;
Calculated with the gap analyzer to select a golf club included in the library based on the golf preference, the first golf ball shot characteristic information, and the second golf ball shot characteristic information. The method of claim 1.

Images