WO2004064945A1

WO2004064945A1 - Golfing apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2004064945A1
Application number: PCT/GB2004/000240
Authority: WO
Inventors: Malcolm Mason; David Callaghan; Nigel Mason; Gary Booker; Jonathon Mason
Original assignee: Rowington Associates Plc
Priority date: 2003-01-22
Filing date: 2004-01-22
Publication date: 2004-08-05
Also published as: WO2004064944A1

Abstract

Golf apparatus comprising a golf mat comprising a plurality of fibers and a plurality of fiber optics, the fiber optics being positioned amongst the plurality of fibers, the fiber optics being configured to sense the movement of a golf club head and a golf ball during a golf shot played off the mat by a user.

Description

GOLFING APPARATUS

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to golfing apparatus, and in particular although not exclusively, to golfing apparatus configured to sense the movement of a golf club and a golf ball during a golf shot.

Background to the Invention

Conventional apparatus and systems for movement monitoring of a golf club, in particular a golf club head, and a golf ball during a golf shot typically involve use of an array of sensors embedded within a golf strike mat. Commonly, signals received by the sensors are fed to a computer entity for processing and subsequent feedback to a user who is presented with an analysis of the golf shot in one form or another.

Fig. 1 herein illustrates a perspective view of a typical prior art golf strike mat sensing unit 100 comprising a golf strike mat 101 ; an array of sensors 102 and a golf ball 103. Typically, a user standing over the strike mat 101 swings the golf club along direction 104 such that sensors 102 are configured to sense a movement of the golf club head towards impact of the golf ball 103. In some systems, sensors 102 are configured to sense a movement of golf ball 103 following contact with the golf club head. Following a processing of the signals received by the sensor array an analysis of the golf shot is relayed to the user typically via a user interface or visual display device.

One problem with conventional golf strike mats as described above, is their failure to simulate a natural and real playing surface being a turf and grass area. Typical prior art golf strike mats involving the use of sensor arrays comprise holes or recesses within the strike mat area to house the sensors and allow a subsequent sensing of the golf club head and golf ball movement. Accordingly, a user is presented with an unnatural playing surface from which to play a golf shot.

P1187.Spec This unnatural playing surface does have a detrimental effect upon the golf shot in that the club head can bounce or spring off the strike mat involving probable damage to the individual, the golf club and strike mat.

5 A further disadvantage associated with prior art strike mat sensing units is the inadequate number of sensors which may be incorporated within the strike mat. In an attempt not to depart too far from a natural looking and feeling strike mat conventional apparatus must limit the number of sensors so as to avoid, in the extreme, a user simply playing a golf shot from a surface comprising, on o whole, an array of sensors.

A further considerable disadvantage with conventional strike mat sensing units is the inability of such units to function outdoors due to their common requirement for a low ambient light level during operation. Typically, prior art 5 sensing units employ an overhead light source which cooperates with sensors built into the strike mat so as to provide a means for detecting and monitoring both golf club head and ball movement. Alternatively, high energy light sources may be employed in close proximity to the sensing mat however such systems are similarly disadvantaged in requiring low ambient light in order for the mat 0 sensors to cooperate with the high energy light source. Accordingly, prior art strike mat sensing devices are limited to indoor use only.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided golf 5 apparatus comprising: a golf mat comprising a plurality of fibers and; a plurality of fiber optics being positioned amongst said plurality of fibers, said fiber optics being configured to sense a movement of a golf club head and a golf ball during a golf shot being played off said golf mat.

o Preferably, the plurality of fiber optics are arranged as a collection of fiber optics within a protective casing whereby the fiber optics are arranged as collections of fiber optics, said collections of fiber optics being positioned amongst said mat fibers, each collection of said plurality of collections being protected by a protective casing.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided golf apparatus comprising: a golf mat comprising: a base unit and a plurality of fibers extending from said base unit; a plurality of fiber optics arranged amongst said fibers; a fiber optic control unit being configured to control said plurality of fiber optics; wherein said fiber optics are configured to sense movement of a golf club head and a golf ball during a golf shot being played by a user off said golf mat.

The computer entity may be configured to generate a virtual golf ball flight of the said golf ball and a virtual golf swing based on said golf shot played by said user. The computer entity when processing signals, data, golf shot component data, or any external data is configured to generate a said virtual golf ball flight and/or virtual golf swing representations involving a processing of data based on the sensing of movement of said golf ball, and/or said golf club head. Optionally, the computer entity comprises a computer program configured to calculate said virtual golf ball flight and said virtual golf swing.

According to specific embodiments of the present invention, golf ball loading apparatus may be provided being configured to present a golf ball to a user at said golf mat, said apparatus comprising at least one motor and a golf ball actuator, said motor being configured to drive such actuated.

According to further aspect of the present invention there is provided a golf apparatus comprising: a strike mat being configured to allow a user to play a golf shot off said strike mat; a plurality of fiber optics positioned at said strike mat, said fiber optics being configured to measure movement of a golf club head and a golf ball during said golf shot played by user; a sensing control unit being configured to control an operation of said fiber optics; a processing unit being configured to process data received from said fiber optic control unit and; a user interface being configured to display an image, said image being generated by a processing of said data.

According to a specific implementation of the present invention said image corresponds to a representation of a flight of said golf ball and/or a golf club head movement.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided golf apparatus being configured to generate data relating to a golf shot played by a user, said apparatus comprising: a golf strike mat, said strike mat being configured to allow a user to play a golf shot involving a golf club head and a golf ball; an array of optical fibers being positioned at said strike mat; a computer entity being configured to receive and process signals received from said optical fibers; a user interface being configured to display data generated by said computer entity, said data relating to said golf shot played by said user.

Alternative, a printed circuit board may be provided for the controlling of said golf ball loading apparatus and in particular said golf ball actuator.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of collecting and processing data relating to a golf shot played by a user, said method comprising: monitoring movement of a golf club head and a golf ball using a plurality of fiber optics positioned at a strike mat; receiving at a computer entity, signals from said fiber optics relating to said movement of said golf club head and said golf ball; processing said signals to obtain data relating to said movement of said golf club head and said golf ball; generating information to be viewed by a user said information being based on said data; displaying said information to said user at a user interface.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a golf shot analysis service system configurable to allow analysis of a golf shot being played by a user, said service system comprising: a golf strike mat; a plurality of fiber optics positioned at said strike mat, said fiber optics being configured to sense movement of a golf club head and a golf ball; at least one computer entity being configured to process signals received by said fiber optics, said computer entity being further configured to generate golf shot analysis data being used by said user to analyse said golf shot.

According to a specific implementations, said server system comprises at least one camera being configured to measure a user's body position and/or golf club position during said golf shot, said at least one camera being connected, either directly, or indirectly via a pre-processor (computer entity), to said computer entity, wherein a user's body position and/or golf club position during said golf shot is included within a generating of said analysis data. Said service system being configured to provide analysis a golf swing of said user, said golf swing forming part of said golf shot.

According to further aspects of the present invention there is provided a method of generating a virtual golf shot played by an individual, said method comprising: sensing movement of a golf club head and a golf ball during a golf shot played by said individual using a strike mat configured with an array of optical fibers; collecting data received by said optical fibers relating to said movement of said golf club head and said golf ball at a computer entity; processing said data generated by said array of optical fibers; processing weather condition data, said weather condition data being received from a local weather station; generating golf shot component data describing said golf shot played by said individual.

The method may further comprise generating individual's posture and/or golf club position data using at least one camera for measuring movement of an individual's body and/or golf club during said golf shot played by said individual and processing said individual's posture and/or golf club data. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a computer entity configured to generate at least one image representation of a golf shot played by an individual, said computer entity comprising: a sensing unit for sensing a movement of a golf club head and a golf ball during said golf shot played by said individual, said sensing unit comprising an array of optical fibers; at least one processor to process signals received by said sensing unit; at least one operating system; at least one data storage facility; at least one memory and; a user interface configured to display said at least one image representation of said golf shot played by said individual.

According to a specific implementation of the present invention said communication means are configured to allow communication between said computer entity and a weather station, wherein said weather data is transmitted to said computer entity, said weather data being incorporated within said generating of said image representation of said golf shot.

According to further aspects of the present invention there is provided apparatus for a golf game to be played by an individual, said apparatus comprising: a golf strike mat configured to allow a golf ball to be struck by said individual during a golf shot; an array of optical fibers incorporated within said strike mat, said array of optical fibers being configured to sense a movement of a golf club head and said golf ball during said golf shot; a sensing control unit to control signals received by said array of optical fibers; wherein said apparatus is configured for connection to a computer entity, said computer entity being configured to generate data relating to said golf shot played by said individual based on said movement of said golf club head and golf ball during said golf shot.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided golf apparatus comprising: a golf mat comprising a plurality of fibers; a plurality of fiber optics being positioned amongst said plurality of fibers, said fiber optics being configured to sense a movement of a golf club head and a golf ball during a golf shot being played off said golf mat and; an infrared emitter device configured to cooperate with said plurality of fiber optics to sense said movement of said golf club head and said golf ball.

Preferably, the infrared emitter device comprises a modulated infrared emitter.

According to specific implementations of the present invention there is provided a system for the generating of data relating to a golf shot played by a user. Such data may describe an estimated direction of flight of the golf ball taking into consideration, among other things, a golf ball angle of launch, speed, direction and spin when passing over the sensors of the golf strike/sensing mat. Additionally, the system is configured to predict a distance travelled by the golf ball, a speed and a trajectory based upon, in part, the above mentioned parameters being sensed by the fiber optics of the golf mat. Similarly, a detailed analysis of the golf club head is possible allowing an estimation of golf club head speed, direction and angle to impact with the golf ball based on a sensing of golf club head movement by the optical fibers.

Brief Description of the Drawings

For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, there will now be described by way of example only, specific embodiments, methods and processes according to the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 illustrates a prior art golf strike mat.

Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of part of a strike mat according to a specific implementation of the present invention.

Figure 3 illustrates a side elevation view of a strike mat according to a specific implementation of a present invention. Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of a collection of fiber optics within a protective casing according to a specific implementation of a present invention.

Figure 5 illustrates an exploded view of a strike mat according to a specific implementation of the present invention.

Figure 6a illustrates a plan view of a strike mat according to a specific implementation of the present invention.

Figure 6b illustrates a side elevation view of a strike mat according to a specific implementation of the present invention.

Figure 7 illustrates an exploded view of the frame assembly housing a strike mat.

Figure 8 illustrates an exploded view of a stance mat assembly.

Figure 9 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a part of a stance mat assembly.

Figure 10 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a hopper hatch assembly.

Figure 11 illustrates an exploded view of a hopper assembly.

Figure 12 illustrates a golf ball actuator assembly.

Figure 13 illustrates an exploded view of assembly.

Figure 14 illustrates a schematic representation of a computer entity. Figure 15 illustrates a schematic view of a golf unit.

Figure 16 illustrates a further schematic representation of a golf unit.

Figure 17 illustrates one mode of operation according to a specific implementation of a present invention.

Figure 18 illustrates a perspective view of the golf unit.

Detailed Description of a Specific for Carrying Out the Invention

There will now be described by way of example a specific mode contemplated by the inventors for carrying out the invention. In the following description numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be apparent however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without limitation to these specific details. In other instances, well known methods and structures have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention.

Referring to Figure 2 herein there is illustrated a perspective view of a golf strike mat 200 comprising a plurality of fiber optics 201 ; a plurality of mat fibers

202; a base unit 203; a sensing control unit 204; means for communication between the fiber optics and the control unit 205 and a computer entity 206.

The array of optical fibers 201 are distributed amongst and sit within the array of mat fibers 202 being emergent through base unit 203, base unit 203 serving as a base for the fibers 202 extending therefrom. Holes may be incorporated within base unit 203 to allow fiber optics 201 to pass therethrough. Alternatively, fiber optics 201 may be fed along the base unit either above, within or below base unit 203. Means 205 are configured to relay signals received from fiber optics 201 to the sensing control unit 204 (e.g. a array of photo-diodes), signals and or data being transferred from sensing control unit 204 to computer entity 206 for subsequent processing. Due to incorporation of the array of fiber optics amongst the mat fibers a golf strike mat configured to sense movement of a golf club head and a golf ball, in a region above the strike mat, is provided such that a realistic grass like playing surface is presented to a user. Due to the length of the soft displaceable fibers 202 and displaceable fiber optics 201 , positioned above the base unit 203, a golf club head is allowed to penetrate an upper most surface of strike mat 200 thereby representing a grass like playing surface. Moreover, fiber optics 201 are configured to maintain and continue sensing movement during and following direct or indirect contact with a club head which has penetrated the upper surface of strike mat 200,

Further, the fiber optics 201 may be configured to replicate a texture and feel of fibers 202 such that fiber optics 201 are not readily distinguishable from fibers 202. Fibers 202 may comprise any form of fibrous material being designed to replicate a texture and feel of grass.

Referring to Figure 3 herein there is illustrated a side elevation view of the strike mat 200 of Figure 2 herein upon which is placed a golf ball 207 with approaching golf club head 208. As detailed with reference to Figure 2 herein a golf shot may be played by a user upon the strike mat 200, and in particular an upper surface 206 thereon.

In use, optical fibers 201 are configured to sense movement of golf club head 208 along direction 209 towards impact with golf ball 207. Optical fibers 201 are further configured to sense movement of golf ball 207 along direction 210. In order to replicate to a user the feel and texture of natural grass, fiber optics 201 positioned within mat fibers 202 are configured to deform in response to impact with club head 208 and possibly golf ball 207.

Referring to Figure 4 herein there is illustrated a perspective view of a collection of fiber optics 201 according to Figure 3 herein being housed within a protective casing 400. According to the specific implementation of the present invention, 250 to 300 separate optical fibers are incorporated within outer casing 400 as a collection of optical fibers. By way of example, a diameter of the collection of optical fibers 201 is approximately 1 mm and a diameter of outer casing 400 is approximately 2 mm. Through the utilization of optical fibers 201 and outer casing 400 of relevant dimensions a golf strike mat is provided which effectively simulates the feel and texture of natural grass whilst providing a sensing unit configured to build a digital image of a golf club head and golf ball before, during and after the golf shot is played upon mat 200. 0

Referring to Figure 5 herein there is an exploded view of the strike mat of Figure 3 herein comprising an array of optical fibers 201 being housed within a network of fibers 202 upon a base 203. An aperture 501 may be incorporated within the array of optical fibers 201 , fibers 202 and base 203 to allow a 5 presenting of a golf ball at an upper surface 206 of the strike mat from a position below the strike mat.

A controller 500 may be employed to control optical fibers 201.

o Referring to Figure 6a herein there is illustrated a plan view of the golf strike mat 200 according to Figure 3 herein comprising a central aperture 501 to allow delivery and presentation of a golf ball at upper surface 206 of strike mat 200.

According to the specific implementation of the present invention the array 5 of optical fibers 201 , being incorporated within casing 400 are arranged in regions within fibrous network 202. The arrangement of fiber optics 201 into such regions is optimized to provide accurate and efficient mapping of the golf club head and golf ball during the golf shot.

o Referring to Figure 6b herein there is illustrated a side elevation view of the strike mat 200 of Figure 6a herein. Referring to Figure 7 herein there is illustrated an exploded view of a frame assembly 700 configured to house strike mat 200. Frame assembly 700 comprises a surround LH 701 ; a surround pack 702 and a frame 703. Frame assembly 700 comprising surround LH 701 , surround pack 702 and frame 703 is configured to provide an assembly unit configured for the housing of an automated golf ball loading apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention.

Referring to Figure 8 herein there is illustrated an exploded perspective view of a stance mat assembly 800 comprising cover stance mat 801 ; under board assembly 802 and a hopper hatch assembly 803.

Stance mat 801 is configured to incorporate strike mat 200 comprising in turn the array of mat fibers 202 incorporating the array of optical fibers 201. The 5 hopper hatch assembly 803 is provided to allow the depositing and loading of a plurality of golf balls to be delivered from below stance mat 200 through aperture

501 at a position to be struck by a golf club head during a golf shot.

Referring to Figure 9 herein there is illustrated an exploded perspective view 0 of a part of stance mat assembly 800 according to Figure 8 herein comprising gas strut 900; a plurality of fixing screws 901 and hopper hatch assembly 803. i Gas struts 900 are configurable to allow an opening and closing of a hopper hatch assembly lid so as to allow a user to empty a receptacle of golf balls into the hopper hatch assembly prior to use of the golf strike mat 200. Accordingly, 5 means are provided to house a supply of golf balls for presentation to a user at the strike mat.

Referring to Figure 10 herein there is illustrated an exploded perspective view of the hopper hatch assembly of Figure 8 herein comprising construction o board 1000; a plurality of tamper proof screws 1001 ; a lift handle 1002; a plurality of hinges 1003 and a stance mat cover 1004. In use, the stance mat cover 1004 is configured to cover an upper portion of hopper hatch assembly 803. Referring to Figure 11 herein there is illustrated an exploded view of a hopper assembly 1100 comprising hopper 1101 ; a plurality of push solenoids 1102; a plurality of rotary solenoids 1103; a solenoid bracket 1104 and a cam 1105.

Solenoids 1102, 1103 cooperate within bracket 1104 wherein in response to an electrical signal solenoids 1102, 1103 function to displace golf balls stored within hopper channels 1101. In response to electronic control, golf balls within the hopper assembly 1100 may be delivered via orifice 501 to an upper region of strike mat 206.

Referring to Figure 12 herein there is illustrated a golf ball actuator assembly 1200 comprising actuator 1201 ; tee 1202; piston 1203; actuator 5 housing 1204; foot 1205; cap head 1206 and at least one motor 1207. In use, a golf ball is delivered to region 1208 with actuator 1201 in a lowered position configured to receive a golf ball. Following an electrical signal supplied to motor 1207 from e.g. a printed circuit board, actuator 1201 displaces indirection 1209 so as to present a golf ball at strike mat surface 200. Tee 1202 according to the o specific implementation of the present invention comprises a bristled tee having a length of bristle corresponding to a length of mat fiber 202 such that a lower plastic base of tee 1202 is not presented above base 203.

Referring to Figure 13 herein there is illustrated an exploded view of 5 assembly 1300 comprising hopper assembly 1100; surround LH 702; strike mat

200; hopper assembly 1200; stance mat assembly 800 according to Figures 7 to 12 herein.

According to the construction of assembly 1300 a golf unit is provided for o the automatic loading of golf balls at the strike mat 200. Referring to Figure 14 herein there is illustrated a schematic representation of a computer entity usable with the present invention comprising a plurality of algorithms 1400; an operating system 1401 ; a user interface 1402; a data storage facility 1403; a memory 1404; at least one processor 1405 and communication means 1406.

According to specific implementations of the present invention computer entity 206 is configured to control the plurality of optical fibers 205 and the automated golf ball delivery system as described with reference to Figures 7 to 13 herein.

Referring to Figure 15 herein there is illustrated a schematic view of computer entity 206 as described with reference to Figure 14 herein being a golf unit embedded controller 1500 comprising sensing unit 1501 ; a user identification recognition component 1502; a user interface display 1503; power supply 1504; communication means 1505, at least one motor 1506 and golf ball actuator 1201. Connection means 1507 are provided to connect the fiber optics 201 to computer 206 in particular processor 1405. Connection means 1507 serve also to connect external communication means 1505 with computer 206, communications means 1505 comprising a transceiver and antenna configured to transmit data from said computer 206 to a server, a second computer entity or computer network. Utilising computer 206 as detailed with reference to Figures 14 and 15 herein a golf unit is provided for data collection resulting from the sensing of golf club head and golf ball movement during a golf shot played by a user (golfer/individual).

Referring to Figure 16 herein there is illustrated a further schematic representation of the components as detailed with reference to Figure 15 herein further comprising keypad 1600; transceiver 1601 ; antenna 1602; power supply 1603 and mains supply 1604. Additionally, the golf unit may further comprise at least one camera being connected to computer 206 being configured to monitor an individual's posture and/or golf club during the golf shot, in turn providing body movement or posture data for inclusion within the processing of data received at computer 206 and the subsequent generating of golf shot component data being viewed by a user. A plurality of different communication means may be employed according to the specific implementation of the present invention so as to interconnect components of Figure 16 herein-such interconnections involving digital and analogue connections as will be appreciated in the art.

In use, the golf unit and in particular the sensing mat 200 incorporating optical fibers 201 sensors movement of club head 208 and golf ball 207 so as to generate golf shot analysis data via computer 206 and optionally sensor control unit 204, this data being viewed at 1503 of user interface 1402.

User identification recognition component 1502 may be incorporated within the present invention such that the golf unit is configured to recognize a user in response to a user interfacing a user identification key with the user identification 5 recognition component 1502. A user may be pre-registered having pre- registered data available at computer 206 such that display 1503 is configured to display information relevant to the pre-registered user. User specific preferences and specific user data may be processed by computer 206 before, during and after the processing of data generated by the fiber optics 201 following golf club o head and golf ball movement sensing.

Keypad 1600 is configured to allow a user to interface with computer 206 providing a user controllable golf unit, in particular a user controllable golf strike mat and processing engine. 5

Computer 206 is further configured to support and process a game platform being usable with sensing strike mat 200 such that movement data generated via fiber optics 201 may be incorporated within the game platform being controlled by the user via keypad 1600 and viewed at display 1503 of interface 1402. Golf shot o data and game data may be stored and relayed at computer 206 such that via transceiver 1601 and antenna 1602 a plurality of users located at a plurality of golf units may partake in any one single or a plurality of games. A server or further computer entity may be incorporated within the network, potentially providing a central processing and storage area for golf shot and game data in connection with a single or multiple golf unit and user scenario.

Referring to Figure 17 herein there is illustrated a flow diagram of one specific mode of operation of the present invention according to Figures 2 to 16 herein.

The golf unit system is reset at stage 1700 optionally in response to a user interfacing with the user identification recognition component. A golf ball is then automatically loaded as detailed with reference to Figures 7 to 13 herein at stage 1701 being controlled by computer 206 and in particular processor 1405. Fiber optics 201 begin a motion sensing operation at stage 1702, fiber optics 201 being configured to monitor the golf shot played by the user at stage 1703, the signals received from the fiber optics being relayed optionally via fiber optic control unit to computer 206 for subsequent data processing. According to the specific implementation of the present invention the sensing mat and computer 206 are configured to provide data, optionally in the form of image/graphic representations of a golf club approach angle, a golf club face angle prior to impact, a net golf club face angle prior to impact, a golf club head linear velocity, a golf ball launch velocity, a golf club head linear position prior to impact, a golf ball launch angle and a power transfer ratio. Accordingly, user interface 1402 in particular display 1503 is configured to display such processed data as a pictorial/graphic representation corresponding to a virtual golf ball flight and/or a virtual golf swing of golf shot 1703 played by the individual. Following data acquisition, motion sensing may be stopped at stage 1704 prior to data processing at stage 1708.

According to specific implementations of the present invention the golf unit is configurable for use to incorporate weather data collected from a weather station situated either locally or remotely from strike mat 200. Weather data, including, for example, wind and humidity data may be received and processed at computer 206 forming part of the golf shot data processing and analysis stage 1708.

Additionally, and according to a specific implementation of the present invention golf club data may be incorporated within the processing stage 1708, the golf club data including data relating to the loft and corresponding golf ball spin potential of a particular golf club amongst a selection of clubs ranging from a driver to a lofted wedge. Accordingly, a user playing a golf shot at strike mat 200 inputs via keyboard 1600 and user interface 1402, the particular club with which 0 the golf shot will be played. Computer 206 is therefore configured to include within the processing stage 1708 the correct loft of club so as to generate an appropriate virtual flight of the golf ball having consideration of the golf club loft and golf ball spin resulting from a user striking the ball. The user may simply select a particular club from a database of clubs within data storage 1403 and/or 5 may provide specific golf club data in terms of club head loft, size, weight, manufacture and golf club face details e.g. grooves.

Yet further, and according to a specific implementation of the present invention the golf unit is configurable for use with a camera to record an o individual's body and/or golf club movement during the golf shot. Being similar to the golf club and weather data incorporation as discussed above, an individual's posture data may be incorporated within the processing stage 1708 so as to provide full golf swing/golf club path analysis optionally involving the display of image/graphic representations of the golf swing including movement sensing by 5 fiber optics 201 and a suitable camera unit being connected to computer 206, possibly via a pre-processor. The golf unit incorporating computer 206 may receive further data at stage 1709, such further data transfer being required where the golf unit is used in connection with a plurality of locally or remotely located further golf units being interconnected within a network. For example, a o plurality of users positioned at a plurality of golf units may play a virtual golf game based on actual physical golf swings performed by each of the plurality of users being incorporated within the game platform. Accordingly, any one user at a golf unit may view a virtual golf ball flight and/or a virtual golf swing of a second or further user located locally or remotely from the first user, via user interface 1402 in particular display 1503. Accordingly, computer 206 is configured to support and process a computer game involving data generated at stages 1702, 1703, 1705, 1706, 1707, 1708 and 1709. Data may then be stored at 1710 either locally at data storage facility 1403 or at another remote data storage location. Optionally, a mobile data storage facility may be carried by a user to receive data from computer 206. Golf shot component data is output at stage 1711 as data, an image, a graphic representation, a graph or any other form of 2D mapping or image representation corresponding to parameters of the golf shot. In particular, a virtual golf ball flight may be generated in addition to a virtual golf swing resulting from the golf shot played by the individual.

The golf shot component data may be viewed locally via user interface 1402 or remotely via a website and internet. Alternatively, golf shot component data may be viewed at a screen of an indoor or outdoor driving range configured to house a plurality of golf units as described with reference to 2 to 17 herein.

Referring to Figure 18 herein there is illustrated a perspective view of a golf unit 1800 as described with reference to Figures 2 to 17 herein comprising assembly 1300; golf strike mat 200; orifice 501 ; user interface 1402; keypad 1600 and support member 1801.

Support member 1801 is configured to support the controller embedded computer 206 so as to provide a convenient height at which user interface 1402 and keypad 1600 are utilised by a user.

According to a specific implementation of the present invention strike mat 200 and/or golf unit 1800 may be interfaced with prior art game consoles so as to provide data input relating to a physical golf shot played by a user. The physical golf shot being converted to a digitised representation including digital data relating to a golf ball flight and a golf swing resulting from the physical golf shot. Such data may then be processed in accordance with the game program. According to a specific implementation of the present invention, strike mat 200 is configurable for use with an infrared emitter device, and in particular a modulated infrared emitter device positioned above the strike mat. Accordingly, the present invention is configurable for use in low ambient light, dark or near dark scenarios such that the fiber optics 201 cooperate with the infrared emitter device so as to provide a means for movement sensing and detection at low ambient light, dark or near dark operating conditions.

Claims

Claims:

1. Golf apparatus comprising:

a golf mat comprising a plurality of fibers and;

a plurality of fiber optics being positioned amongst said plurality of fibers, said fiber optics being configured to sense a movement of a golf club head and a golf ball during a golf shot being played off said golf mat.

2. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein said plurality of fiber optics comprise an array of optical fibers being interdisbursed within said plurality of fibers.

3. The apparatus as claimed in claims 1 or 2 further comprising:

at least one sensing control unit being configured to control said fiber optics.

4. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein said fiber optics are arranged as a collection of fiber optics within a protective casing.

5. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein said fiber optics are arranged as collections of fiber optics, said collections of fiber optics being positioned amongst said mat fibers.

6. The apparatus as claimed in claim 5 comprising a plurality of collections of said fiber optics wherein each collection of said plurality of collections of said fiber optics are protected by a protective casing.

7. Golf apparatus comprising:

a golf mat comprising: a base unit and a plurality of fibers extending from said base unit;

a plurality of fiber optics arranged amongst said fibers;

a fiber optic control unit being configured to control said plurality of fiber optics;

wherein said fiber optics are configured to sense movement of a golf club head and a golf ball during a golf shot being played by a user off said golf mat.

8. The apparatus as claimed in claim 7 further comprising:

a computer entity being configured to process data received from said fiber optic control unit, said computer entity comprising:

a user interface;

data storage facilities;

a memory and;

at least one processor.

9. The apparatus as claimed in claim 8 wherein said computer entity is configured to generate a virtual golf ball flight of said golf ball based on a movement of said golf ball during said golf shot played by said user.

10. The apparatus as claimed in claims 8 or 9 further comprising: at least one computer program configured to calculate said virtual golf ball flight and a virtual golf swing using said data received by said computer entity from said fiber optic control unit.

11. The apparatus as claimed in claim 10 wherein said data comprises golf shot component data being any one or a selection of the following set of:

golf club approach angle data;

5 golf club face angle prior to impact data;

net golf club angle prior to impact data;

o golf club head linear velocity data;

golf ball launch velocity data;

golf head linear position prior to impact data; 5 golf ball launch angle data:

power transfer ratio data.

0 12. The apparatus as claimed in claim 8 wherein said user interface is configured to display golf shot component data.

13. The apparatus as claimed in claim 10 wherein said user interface is configured to display a graphic representation of said virtual flight of said golf ball 5 and said virtual golf swing.

14. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 13 further comprising golf ball loading apparatus, said golf ball loading apparatus being configured to present a golf ball to a user at said golf mat. 0

15. The apparatus as claimed in claim 14 wherein said golf ball loading apparatus comprises: at least one motor and;

a golf ball actuator;

5 wherein said at least one motor is configured to drive said actuator.

16. The apparatus as claimed in claim 15 further comprising:

a plurality of servos being operable to control a transfer of said golf ball to o said golf ball actuator and;

a plurality of drivers configured to drive said servos and said actuator.

17. Golf apparatus comprising: 5 a strike mat being configured to allow a user to play a golf shot off said strike mat;

a plurality of fiber optics positioned at said strike mat, said fiber optics being 0 configured to measure movement of a golf club head and a golf ball during said golf shot played by user;

a sensing control unit being configured to control an operation of said fiber optics; 5 a processing unit being configured to process data received from said fiber optic control unit and;

a user interface being configured to display an image, said image being o generated by a processing of said data.

18. The apparatus as claimed in claim 17 wherein said data comprises any one or a combination of the following set of:

golf club approach angle data;

5 golf club face angle prior to impact data;

net golf club angle prior to impact data;

o golf club head linear velocity data;

golf ball launch velocity data;

golf head linear position prior to impact data; 5 golf ball launch angle data;

power transfer ratio data.

0 19. The apparatus as claimed in claim 17 wherein said image corresponds to a representation of a flight of a said golf ball being hit by said user during said golf shot.

20. The apparatus as claimed in claim 17 wherein said image 5 corresponds to a representation of golf club head movement during said golf shot played by said user.

21. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 20 further comprising:

o golf ball loading apparatus, said golf ball loading apparatus comprising;

a hopper being configured to receive and store golf balls ready for use; a golf ball actuator being configured for presenting a golf ball to a user at said strike mat;

at least one motor being configured to drive said actuator.

22. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 21 further comprising:

a keypad being configured to allow a user to interface with said user interface.

23. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 22 wherein a golf ball is presented at said strike mat by said golf ball actuator from a position below said strike mat. 5

24. The apparatus as claimed in claim 23 wherein a displacement of said golf ball by said golf ball actuator is controlled by a printed circuit board.

25. Golf apparatus being configured to generate data relating to a golf 0 shot played by a user, said apparatus comprising:

a golf strike mat, said strike mat being configured to allow a user to play a golf shot involving a golf club head and a golf ball;

5 an array of optical fibers being positioned at said strike mat; a computer entity being configured to receive and process signals received from said optical fibers;

a user interface being configured to display data generated by said o computer entity, said data relating to said golf shot played by said user.

26. The apparatus as claimed in claim 25 wherein said data comprises any one or a combination of the following set of:

golf club approach angle data;

5 golf club face angle prior to impact data;

net golf club angle prior to impact data;

o golf club head linear velocity data;

golf ball launch velocity data;

golf head linear position prior to impact data; 5 golf ball launch angle data;

power transfer ratio data.

o

27. The apparatus as claimed in claims 25 or 26 further comprising:

golf ball loading apparatus being configured to automatically present a golf ball to said user at said strike mat;

5 wherein said golf ball loading apparatus is controlled by said computer entity.

28. The apparatus as claimed in claim 27 further comprising:

a printed circuit board being used in the controlling of said golf ball loading o apparatus.

29. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 25 to 28 wherein said computer entity comprises:

a plurality of algorithms;

a user interface;

data storage facilities;

a memory;

at least one processor.

30. The apparatus as claimed in claim 29 further comprising:

communication means;

wherein said communication means are configured to allow communication between said computer entity and a network of computer entities.

31. The apparatus as claimed in claim 30 wherein said computer entity is configured to process data received from at least one weather station;

wherein data received from said at least one weather station is processed with said data received by said computer entity relating to said golf shot played by said user.

32. A method of collecting and processing data relating to a golf shot played by a user, said method comprising:

monitoring movement of a golf club head and a golf ball using a plurality of fiber optics positioned at a strike mat; receiving at a computer entity, signals from said fiber optics relating to said movement of said golf club head and said golf ball;

processing said signals to obtain data relating to said movement of said golf club head and said golf ball;

generating information to be viewed by a user said information being based on said data;

displaying said information to said user at a user interface.

33. The method as claimed in claim 32 further comprising:

positioning said fiber optics amongst a plurality of mat fibers, said mat fibers forming part of said strike mat.

34. The method as claimed in claims 32 or 33 wherein said fiber optics are arranged as a plurality of collections of fiber optics amongst said mat fibers.

35. The method as claimed in claim 34 wherein each collection of said plurality of collections of fiber optics is protected by a protective casing.

36. The method as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 35 further comprising:

generating a representation a virtual flight of said golf ball being hit by a user during said golf shot and;

displaying said representation at said user interface.

37. The method as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 36 wherein said processing of said signals received at said computer entity involves a processing of data comprising any one or a combination of the following:

golf club approach angle data;

golf club face angle prior to impact data;

net golf club angle prior to impact data;

golf club head linear velocity data;

golf ball launch velocity data;

golf head linear position prior to impact data;

golf ball launch angle data;

power transfer ratio data. 0

38. A golf shot analysis service system configurable to allow analysis of a golf shot being played by a user, said service system comprising:

a golf strike mat; 5 a plurality of fiber optics positioned at said strike mat, said fiber optics being configured to sense movement of a golf club head and a golf ball;

at least one computer entity being configured to process signals received by said fiber optics, said computer entity being further configured to generate golf o shot analysis data being used by said user to analyse said golf shot.

39. The service system as claimed in claim 38 further comprising: a user interface being configured to display data generated by said computer entity.

40. The service system as claimed in claims 38 or 39 wherein said data generated by said computer entity describes a virtual golf ball flight of said golf ball being hit by said user during said golf shot.

41. The service system as claimed in any one claims 38 to 40 further comprising: 0 at least one camera being configured to measure a user's body and/or golf club position during said golf shot, said at least one camera being connected to said computer entity wherein a user's body and/or golf club position during said golf shot is included within a generating of said analysis data. 5

42. The service system as claimed in any one of claims 38 to 41 wherein said service system is configured to provide analysis of a golf swing of said user, said golf swing forming part of said golf shot.

o

43. The service system as claimed in any one of claims 38 to 42 further comprising:

automated golf ball loading apparatus, said golf ball loading apparatus being configured to present a golf ball to a user at said strike mat. 5

44. A method of generating a virtual golf shot played by an individual, said method comprising:

sensing movement of a golf club head and a golf ball during a golf shot o played by said individual using a strike mat configured with an array of optical fibers; collecting data received by said optical fibers relating to said movement of said golf club head and said golf ball at a computer entity;

processing said data generated by said array of optical fibers;

processing weather condition data, said weather condition data being received from a local weather station;

generating golf shot component data describing said golf shot played by said individual.

45. The method as claimed in claim 44 further comprising:

processing golf club data as part of said generating of said golf shot component data.

46. The method as claimed in claim 45 wherein said golf club data comprises data describing a loft of said golf club.

47. The method as claimed in any one of claims 44 to 46 further comprising:

generating individual's posture and/or golf club data using at least one camera for measuring movement of an individual's body and/or golf club during said golf shot played by said individual and;

processing said individual's posture and/or golf club data.

48. A computer entity configured to generate at least one image representation of a golf shot played by an individual, said computer entity comprising: a sensing unit for sensing a movement of a golf club head and a golf ball during said golf shot played by said individual, said sensing unit comprising an array of optical fibers;

at least one processor to process signals received by said sensing unit;

at least one data storage facility;

at least one memory and;

a user interface configured to display said at least one image representation of said golf shot played by said individual.

49. The computer entity as claimed in claim 48 further comprising:

communication means to allow communication between said computer entity and at least one further computer entity.

50. The computer entity as claimed in claim 49 wherein said communication means are configured to allow communication between said computer entity and a weather station;

wherein weather data is transmitted to said computer entity said weather data being incorporated within said generating of said image representation of said golf shot.

51. The computer entity as claimed in claim 49 wherein said communication means are configured to allow communication between said computer entity and at least one camera; wherein data captured by said camera relating to an individual's posture and/or golf club during said golf shot is incorporated within said generating of said image representation of said golf shot.

52. Apparatus for a golf game to be played by an individual, said apparatus comprising:

a golf strike mat configured to allow a golf ball to be struck by said individual during a golf shot;

an array of optical fibers incorporated within said strike mat, said array of optical fibers being configured to sense a movement of a golf club head and said golf ball during said golf shot;

a sensing control unit to control signals received by said array of optical fibers;

wherein said apparatus is configured for connection to a computer entity, said computer entity being configured to generate data relating to said golf shot played by said individual based on said movement of said golf club head and golf ball during said golf shot.

53. The apparatus as claimed in claim 52 further comprising:

a computer entity configured for processing data received by said sensing control unit and;

at least one user interface being configured to display image representations of said golf shot played by said individual.

54. The apparatus as claimed in claims 52 or 53 further comprising: communication means to allow communication between said computer entity and a plurality of computer entities;

wherein said plurality of said computer entities form a network of computer entities.

55. The apparatus as claimed in claims 52 to 54 wherein said apparatus is configurable for use with a game console wherein said golf shot of said individual is incorporated within a game being playable on said game console.

56. Golf apparatus comprising:

a golf mat comprising a plurality of fibers;

a plurality of fiber optics being positioned amongst said plurality of fibers, said fiber optics being configured to sense a movement of a golf club head and a golf ball during a golf shot being played off said golf mat and;

an infrared emitter device configured to cooperate with said plurality of fiber optics to sense said movement of said golf club head and said golf ball.

57. The apparatus as claimed in claim 56 wherein said infrared emitter device comprises a modulated infrared emitter.