WO2010016616A1 - Système de navigation de golf et appareil de navigation de golf portatif - Google Patents

Système de navigation de golf et appareil de navigation de golf portatif Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2010016616A1
WO2010016616A1 PCT/JP2009/064277 JP2009064277W WO2010016616A1 WO 2010016616 A1 WO2010016616 A1 WO 2010016616A1 JP 2009064277 W JP2009064277 W JP 2009064277W WO 2010016616 A1 WO2010016616 A1 WO 2010016616A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
golf course
information
golf
controller
portable
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/JP2009/064277
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Nobuhiro Kishimoto
Chihiro Yanase
Katsumasa Tsuneyoshi
Original Assignee
Magellan Systems Japan, Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Magellan Systems Japan, Inc. filed Critical Magellan Systems Japan, Inc.
Publication of WO2010016616A1 publication Critical patent/WO2010016616A1/fr

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
    • G01S19/00—Satellite radio beacon positioning systems; Determining position, velocity or attitude using signals transmitted by such systems
    • G01S19/01—Satellite radio beacon positioning systems transmitting time-stamped messages, e.g. GPS [Global Positioning System], GLONASS [Global Orbiting Navigation Satellite System] or GALILEO
    • G01S19/13—Receivers
    • G01S19/14—Receivers specially adapted for specific applications
    • G01S19/19—Sporting applications
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
    • A63B71/06—Indicating or scoring devices for games or players, or for other sports activities
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
    • G09B—EDUCATIONAL OR DEMONSTRATION APPLIANCES; APPLIANCES FOR TEACHING, OR COMMUNICATING WITH, THE BLIND, DEAF OR MUTE; MODELS; PLANETARIA; GLOBES; MAPS; DIAGRAMS
    • G09B29/00—Maps; Plans; Charts; Diagrams, e.g. route diagram
    • G09B29/10—Map spot or coordinate position indicators; Map reading aids
    • G09B29/106—Map spot or coordinate position indicators; Map reading aids using electronic means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2102/00—Application of clubs, bats, rackets or the like to the sporting activity ; particular sports involving the use of balls and clubs, bats, rackets, or the like
    • A63B2102/32—Golf
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
    • A63B2220/10—Positions
    • A63B2220/12—Absolute positions, e.g. by using GPS
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
    • A63B2220/10—Positions
    • A63B2220/13—Relative positions
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
    • A63B2220/10—Positions
    • A63B2220/14—Geo-tagging, e.g. for correlating route or track location data with specific information related to that specific location
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
    • A63B2220/10—Positions
    • A63B2220/16—Angular positions
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
    • A63B2220/20—Distances or displacements
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
    • A63B2220/80—Special sensors, transducers or devices therefor
    • A63B2220/803—Motion sensors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
    • A63B2220/80—Special sensors, transducers or devices therefor
    • A63B2220/83—Special sensors, transducers or devices therefor characterised by the position of the sensor
    • A63B2220/833—Sensors arranged on the exercise apparatus or sports implement
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2225/00—Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment
    • A63B2225/50—Wireless data transmission, e.g. by radio transmitters or telemetry

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a golf navigation system, and a portable golf navigation apparatus utilizing GPS (Global Positioning System)/GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) signals.
  • GPS Global Positioning System
  • GNSS Global Navigation Satellite System
  • a golfer selects a target point in a hole, such as a bunker, pond, or green, using a portable terminal, and the distance from the current position to the selected target point is displayed.
  • a target point such as a bunker, pond, or green
  • U.S. Pat. Application Publication No. 2002/0060642 describes such a golf navigation system in which the portable terminal transmits the current position information to a server and receives distance information from the server. Some portable terminals also calculate the distance from the current position to registered points in the golf course independently from the server.
  • the embodiments of the present invention provide a portable golf navigation apparatus and a method for assisting a golf player using the same.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus includes a controller, a memory coupled to the controller, the memory storing weighted golf course information, the weighted golf course information including names and position information of golf course items and weight information associated with each of the golf course items, a GPS/GNSS receiver coupled to the controller, the GPS/GNSS receiver receiving GPS/GNSS signals, a display section coupled to the controller, an external communication section, and a user input device.
  • the external communication section includes a wireless transceiver coupled to the controller, the transceiver transmitting and receiving wireless signals to and from an external device, and a connector section coupled to the controller, the connector section providing bi-directional communications with an external device.
  • the user input device is coupled to the controller, and receives user commands to operate the apparatus.
  • the controller calculates a current position of the apparatus based on the received GPS/GNSS signals, and calculates a distance from the current position to a golf course item based on the position information stored in the memory.
  • the display section selectively displays, under control of the controller, an indication of the golf course item and, optionally, the calculated distance thereto with an emphasis such that strength of the emphasis is in accordance with the weight information associated with the golf course item.
  • the indication of the golf course item includes the name of the golf course item, and the weight information includes a weight value associated with the golf course item, where the greater the weight value, more conspicuously displayed the indication of the golf course item and the distance thereto.
  • the indication of the golf course item may further include a frame enclosing the name of the golf course item and the distance thereto.
  • the frame may have a pointed leg, where the tip of the pointed leg corresponds to a position of the golf course item.
  • the display section selectively displays, being controlled by the controller, the indication of the golf course item and the distance thereto for the golf course items having the weight values greater than a predetermined value.
  • the controller may search the weighted golf course information for the names of golf course facilities or country clubs in a vicinity of the current position, and the display section displays, under control of the controller, the searched names of golf course facilities or country clubs with the emphasis in accordance with the respective weight information.
  • the controller updates the weighted golf course information based on at least one of: (i) a user's pattern of referring to the indication of the golf course item displayed on the display section, (ii) the user's moving pattern obtained by tracking the current positions of the apparatus, and (iii) a change in the current orientation of the apparatus pointing to one of the golf course items to another.
  • the display section displays the indication of the golf course items and the distance thereto in accordance with the updated weight information
  • the memory stores the updated weight information as updated weighted golf course information by associating with a corresponding golf course items.
  • the controller may update the weight information by increasing the weight value for the golf course item the indication of which on the display section is selected by a golfer using the user input device.
  • the controller may also update the weight information by increasing the weight value for the golf course item if the current position stays in a vicinity of the position of the golf course item for a predetermined period of time.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus may further includes a sensor module coupled to the controller.
  • the sensor module includes a direction sensor for detecting an orientation of the apparatus, and an accelerometer for detecting a tilt and acceleration of the apparatus.
  • the controller may further determine a current orientation of the apparatus based on the detected orientation and tilt, and updates the weight information by increasing the weight value for the golf course item located in a direction aligned with the current orientation.
  • the controller may record the current position as new position information for a golf course item specified by a user, and store the new position information as updated weighted golf course information by associating with the specified golf course item and assigning a weight value.
  • the controller may also record a succession of the current positions to calculate a trajectory, create new position information based on the trajectory, and store the new position information as updated weighted golf course information by associating with a golf course item specified by a user and assigning a weight value.
  • the controller transmits the updated weighted golf course information to an external device or a server via one of the wireless transceiver or the connector section along with identification information of the apparatus.
  • the controller may further transmit additional information associated with golf course items to the external device via one of the wireless transceiver or the connector section.
  • the controller may also obtain global weighted golf course information for desired golf course items from the server via the wireless transceiver or the connector section and update the weighted golf course information stored in the memory.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus may further includes a voice input device for receiving a user voice message, and the controller may record the voice message as audio data on the memory by associating with a corresponding golf course item.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus may further include an audio output section coupled to the controller, and the memory may further store audio data for voice guidance messages such that the audio output section outputs a voice signal announcing the golf course item displayed with a strongest emphasis and the distance thereto.
  • a golf navigation system includes a server and a plurality of portable golf navigation apparatuses described above, where the portable golf navigation apparatuses are capable of communicating with the server via a communications network. The sever receives the updated weighted golf course information from the portable golf navigation apparatuses, and selectively integrates the received weighted golf course information so as to create global weighted golf course information.
  • the global weighted golf course information is maintained in the server to be available to portable golf navigation apparatuses.
  • the server may modify the weight value of the received weighted golf course information based on reliability of the received weighted golf course information.
  • the reliability may be associated with identification information of the portable golf navigation apparatuses.
  • the golf navigation system may further include at least one external information apparatus having a display, which is capable of communicating with the server via the communications network and with the portable golf navigation apparatuses.
  • the external information apparatus may obtains the global weighted golf course information from the server, and displays the golf course items on a corresponding golf course layout.
  • the plurality of portable golf navigation apparatuses are capable of communicating each other via the external communication sections thereof.
  • FIG. l is a schematic diagram illustrating a golf navigation system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIGS. 2A-2D are schematic diagrams showing an example of the external views of a portable golf navigation apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically illustrating elements of the portable golf navigation apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIGS. 4-6 are diagrams schematically illustrating examples of the display of the portable golf navigation apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIGS. 7 A and 7B are diagrams schematically illustrating how the emphasis of the display is changed when one of the golf course items is referred to or selected by a golfer, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically illustrates an example of a hole of a golf course.
  • FIGS. 9A and 9B are diagrams schematically illustrating how the emphasis of the display is changed when the orientation of the portable golf navigation apparatus is changed.
  • FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of global weighted golf course information displayed on a display screen of the external device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a golf navigation system 100 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • the golf navigation system 100 includes one or more portable golf navigation apparatuses 10 and a server 20.
  • Each portable golf navigation apparatus 10 and the server 20 are capable of communicating each other via a communications network 2 such as the Internet, wide area network (WAN), local area network (LAN), wireless (Wi-Fi) telecommunications network, and the like.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 is capable of communicating with external device 4 such as personal computers 4a, portable game consoles 4b, notebook (laptop) computers 4c, or other information processing devices via a cable, for example, a USB cable, or via wireless connections using suitable standards such as IEEE 802.11.
  • the server 20 may also include an external information processing apparatus 6, as shown in FIG. 1.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 is also capable of accessing the communications network 2 via a wireless access point 8.
  • the external information processing apparatus 4 typically includes a processer (CPU), a wireless transceiver and communication ports (not shown) for providing wireless/wired communications with the portable golf navigation apparatus 10, the server 20, and the communications network 2, a memory (now shown), a display such as LCD display panel, an input/pointing device such as a keyboard and computer mouse, an audio input/output device (not shown) such as a microphone and speaker.
  • a processer CPU
  • a wireless transceiver and communication ports for providing wireless/wired communications with the portable golf navigation apparatus 10, the server 20, and the communications network 2
  • a memory now shown
  • a display such as LCD display panel
  • an input/pointing device such as a keyboard and computer mouse
  • an audio input/output device not shown
  • FIGS. 2A-2D show an example of the external view of the left side, the front side, the right side, and the back side, respectively, of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 may also be referred to as a handheld golf navigation terminal or a golfing GPS.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 has a body 12, a power switch 14, a display (display section) 16, and a user input device 18.
  • the dimension of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 (the body 12 thereof) may be about 40-50 mm wide, about 70-80 mm long, and about 20-30 mm thick in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The dimension may be smaller or larger.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 has a dimension that is suitable to hold it with one hand (or "palm- sized") and/or to carry it in a pocket.
  • the display 16 may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), preferably, a color LCD. However, a black-and-white display may be used for better visibility under the bright sun light.
  • the user input device 18 may include buttons or keys to enter commands, scroll the display screen, change items to be displayed, make a selection from displayed items, and the like.
  • the user input device 18 may have a different shapes and configurations from those shown in FIG. 2B.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 may also have a voice input device 22 such as a microphone to input and record a golf player's voice message, and an audio output device 24 such as a speaker.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 also has a connector section 26 which provides bi-directional communications with external devices such as portable game consoles, personal computers, or other information processing devices via a cable, for example, a USB cable.
  • the power source 28 of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 may be dry-cell batteries as shown in FIG. 2D, or a rechargeable battery. If a rechargeable battery is used, the USB connecter may also provide an electrical connection for charging the battery.
  • the internal components (such as a circuit board, processor, memory sensors, antennas, and the like) of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 are not shown in FIGS. 2A-2D.
  • FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically illustrating elements of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 includes a controller (processor or CPU) 30, a memory 32, a GPS/GNSS receiver 40, a sensor module 50, and a user interface 60.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 further includes an external communication section 70 which includes the connector section 26, as described above, and a wireless transceiver 72 coupled to the controller 30.
  • the wireless transceiver 72 may also include an internal antenna 74.
  • the connector section 26 and the wireless transceiver 72 are capable of transmitting and receiving wired and wireless signals, respectively, to and from the external information processing device 4 or the server 20 directly or via the communications network 2.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 is also capable of communicating other portable golf navigation apparatuses 10 via the external communication sections 70 thereof.
  • the memory 32 may have an internal memory 34 including a random access memory (RAM) and a non- volatile memory such as a flash memory (FROM).
  • the memory 32 may also include an auxiliary memory drive 36, and a storage medium 38 such as a memory card.
  • the memory drive 36 writes and reads data to and from the storage medium 38.
  • the GPS/GNSS receiver 40 is coupled to the controller 30, and receives GPS/GNSS signals from GPS/GNSS satellites.
  • the GPS/GNSS receiver 40 may include an internal antenna 42 provided inside the body 12 of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 may also utilize other GNSS satellites, such as those of Galileo positioning system, GLONASS (GLObal'naya NAvigatsionnaya Sputnikovaya Mama), SBAS (Satellite Based Argumentation Systems), and the like.
  • the sensor module 50 is coupled to the controller 30, and includes a direction sensor 52 and an accelerometer 54.
  • the sensor module 50 may be a 6-axis sensor (3 axes for direction, and 3 axes for acceleration).
  • the direction sensor 52 detects the current orientation of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10, and the accelerometer 53 detects the tilt and acceleration/movement of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10.
  • the sensor section 50 may output respective detection signals to the controller 30.
  • the user interface 60 includes the display 16, the user input device 18, the voice input device 22, and the audio output device 24, which are typically provided on the front face of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10, as shown in FIG. 2B. However, some buttons or keys, or other input/output devices may be provided on side faces of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10.
  • the user interface 60 allows a user (golf player) to operate the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 by inputting commands or selections via the user input device 18, for example, to activate a certain function, to select an item from the display 16, to select a certain operational mode, to register the current position, or set of positions, to input and record comments associated with a specific item or position, to record voice messages via the voice input device 22, and the like.
  • the memory 32 stores weighted golf course information.
  • the weighted golf course information includes golf course item information, golf course position information for each golf course item, weight information associated with each golf course item.
  • the weighted golf course information may also include individual golf course information and other additional information associated with golf course items.
  • the golf course item information may be the name of golf course items, and by being associated with the position information thereof, it identifies a specific golf course item in a specific hole/golf course.
  • Each of the golf course items is also associated with weight information, for example, a specific weight value or a rank indicating how strongly or conspicuously the golf course item is to be presented on the display 16. They are explained below in more detail.
  • the weighted golf course information is updatable, and the memory 32 also stores updated weight information.
  • the memory 32 may further store audio data for voice guidance message, identification information for identify the portable golf navigation apparatus 10, comments information, and the like.
  • the "golf course items” means items, entities, or locations related to golf play and golf courses, and they are referred to by their names, such as names of golf course facilities or country clubs; golf course names (in-course and out-course); names of the holes (hole numbers); points of interest (strategic target positions) that golfers would consider when they play golf in a hole; and the like.
  • the golfers' points of interests include, for example, teeing grounds; doglegs; a near (front) edge, center, and far (back) edge of greens; near (front) edge, center, and far (back) edge of bunkers, ponds, streams, rivers, and other hazards; trees and bushes; hills; boundary of Out of Bounds ("OB"); edge of fairways; boundaries between the fairway and rough; and intermediate target points (i.e., strategically important points or spots other than predetermined/fixed points such as greens and bunkers).
  • the "near (front) edge” may be a position that gives the shortest distance from, for example, the center of the teeing ground, the current position, or the predetermined position.
  • the "far (back) edge” may be a position that gives the longest distance from, for example, the center of the teeing ground, the current position, or the predetermined position.
  • the center may be a center of gravity of a specified area.
  • the pin/cup position may be included in the golf course items, although their positions are frequently changed by the golf course management and thus they may require manual updates.
  • the position information of a golf course item is given as a set of coordinates (latitude and longitude) and/or a range of the coordinates (latitude and longitude) associated to the specific golf course item.
  • the position of the center, near (front) edge, and far (back) edge of a green may be specified by the respective coordinates, while golf course (golf course facilities or country clubs) and holes may be specified by a range of the coordinates.
  • the position information of a teeing ground may include the coordinates (latitude and longitude) of the center position and a range of the coordinates representing the circle around the center position that encompasses the entire teeing ground.
  • the golf course items can identify a particular golf course item when it is combined with the position information. For example, the combination of the item name "center of green" and its specific latitude and longitude coordinates identify the center of a particular green in a particular hole in a particular golf course.
  • the golf course items and the corresponding position information are associated with respective weights (weight values), forming the weighted golf course information.
  • the weights are numerical values or points indicating ranks (for example, very high, high, medium, low, very low, etc.) assigned to the respective golf course items.
  • the weight is set high (i.e., given a high value/points) for a golf course item which has high probability to be referred to by many golfers in order to obtain information or to make a strategic decision in a golf course (i.e., important to the golfers).
  • greens, bunkers in front of a green, a pond in the middle of the fairway may be assigned with a high value, compared to bunkers close to teeing grounds and low bushes which may be easily overcome and thus have lower probability to be refereed to by golfers and are assigned with lower values.
  • Popular golf course facilities and golf courses where many golfers visit may also have a high weight value, while unpopular golf course facilities or golf courses attracting a small number of people may have a lower weight value.
  • the golf course items whose position information is highly reliable may also have a high weight value, for example, a strategic target point whose position information is not likely to change or is given by a golf course manager.
  • a weight for a golf course item may include a characteristic value depending on the item itself and a reliability value depending on the reliability and accuracy of the position information associated therewith.
  • the characteristic value of the weight may include (i.e., the sum of) an initial value that is set for the item when it is originally created, and a recorded value that is previously recorded.
  • the characteristic value of the weight may further include an update value that is calculated based on the current position and/or the current orientation of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10. The update value may be calculated in real time.
  • the update value may further depend on whether and how frequently the golfer selects and refers to the item ("referring pattern" of the golfer), whether and how long the golfer (i.e., the current position of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10) comes or stays close to the position of a golf course item ("moving pattern" of the golfer). For example, a prolonged time period during which the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 stays at substantially the same position indicates that the golfer is bothered by the golf course item (such as a hazard) corresponding to the position.
  • the memory 32 may further store individual golf course information associated with the corresponding golf course facility or country club, or golf courses.
  • the individual golf course information includes, for example, the number of the courses; the number of holes in each course; the number of greens and teeing grounds in each hole; the number of hazards in each hole; the number of strategic or intermediate target points in each hole; the per number of each hole; hole layout information associated with coordinate position information of the hole; characteristic name (short hole or long hole) of each hole; and the date and time on which the individual golf course information is stored (registered or updated).
  • the memory 32 further stores audio data for voice guidance messages. For example, the distance to the selected golf course item may be output via the audio output device 24 as a voice message announcing the distance, as well as displayed on the display 16.
  • the memory 32 may further store identification (ID) information for identifying the portable golf navigation apparatus 10. Such identification information is recorded at least before using the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 at the golf course. For example, the unique serial number and/or identification code of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 may be used. In addition, user-specified information such as a user name (golfer's name), a password, and/or an account number of the golfer, if any, may also be used as the identification information. [0044] Furthermore, comments information, which is input by the golfer using the user input device 18, may also be recorded in the memory 32.
  • ID identification
  • the comment information may be strategic notes or playing tips associated with a specific golf course item, location, or position information.
  • the golf player's voice messages may also be recorded as audio data in the memory 32 using the voice input device 22.
  • the golf player may record a message regarding specific golf course items, for example, strategic advices or practical tips for themselves or to be shared with other golfers.
  • the controller 30 records and associates such a voice message with the corresponding golf course items (and the corresponding position information).
  • the controller 30 is configured to perform various calculations, and controls operations of the memory 32, the display 16, the voice input device 22, and the audio output device 24, automatically and/or based on user commands received from the user input device 18.
  • the controller 30 may perform read and right operations to the memory 32, directly or by controlling the memory drive 36.
  • the controller 30 also controls communications and data transmission in both directions via the wireless transceiver 72 and the connector section 20.
  • the controller 30 processes the GPS/GNSS signals received from the GPS/GNSS receiver 40, and determines date and time, latitude, longitude, altitude, moving direction, velocity, and the like, so as to obtain the current position ("positioning" operations).
  • the controller 30 also calculates orientation, tilt, acceleration, and the like from the signals output from the sensor module 50 and determines accurate current orientation of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10. [0046] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, after calculating the current position based on the received GPS/GNSS signals, the controller 30 calculates the distance from the current position to the golf course items based on the position information (in the weighted golf course information) stored in the memory 32. [0047]
  • the display 16 displays, under control of the controller 30, the indication of the golf course item and the calculated distance thereto with an emphasis, such that the strength of the emphasis is in accordance with the weight information associated with the golf course item being displayed.
  • the indication of the golf course item may include the name of the golf course item and a frame enclosing the name.
  • the frame may have a pointed leg indicating the position of the golf course item on the display 16.
  • the frame may also enclose the distance to the golf course item. The greater the weight value, more conspicuously displayed the indication of the golf course item and the distance thereto.
  • the display 16 selectively displays, being controlled by the controller 30, the indication of the golf course item and the distance thereto for the golf course items having the weight values greater than a predetermined value.
  • the controller 30 updates the weighted golf course information based on at least one of (i) a user's pattern of referring to or selecting the indication of the golf course item displayed on the display section, (ii) the user's moving pattern obtained by tracking the current positions of the apparatus, and (iii) a change in the current orientation of the apparatus pointing to one of the golf course items to another.
  • the display 16 changes the emphasis on the golf course items (and the corresponding distance thereto) being displayed.
  • the memory 32 stores the updated weight information as updated weighted golf course information by associating with a corresponding golf course items.
  • the controller 30 updates the weight information by increasing the weight value for the golf course item, when the indication of the golf course item on the display 16 is selected by a golfer using the user input device 18.
  • the controller 30 may also increase the weight value for the golf course item if the current position stays in a vicinity of the position of the golf course item loner than a predetermined period of time.
  • the controller 30 may increase the weight value for the golf course item located in a direction aligned with the current orientation, when the orientation of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 is changed, for example, from a direction aiming at one golf course item to another direction aiming at a different golf course item.
  • the audio output section 24 (such as a speaker) may output, under control of the controller 30, a voice message announcing the golf course item displayed with a strongest emphasis (i.e., having the highest weight value) and the distance thereto.
  • the weighted golf course information stored in the memory 32 can also be updated by adding new information or revising existing information, for example, when the golfer desires to create new golf course items (such as intermediate target positions), a new golf course opens, an existing golf course has been remodeled, or otherwise the golf course information has been changed. Such new information may be manually registered by inputting new position information and associating it with (or "naming") the corresponding golf course item using the user input device 18.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 records the current position as new position information for a golf course item specified by a user.
  • the new position information is stored in the memory 32 as updated weighted golf course information by associating with the specified golf course item and assigning a weight value.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 also records a succession of the current positions to calculate a trajectory, creates new position information based on the trajectory, and stores the new position information as updated weighted golf course information by associating with a golf course item specified by the user and assigning a weight value.
  • Such new position information or the trajectory information may be transmitted to the external information processing device 4 to be displayed on a course layout.
  • the weighted golf course information stored in the memory 32 is also updated by obtaining new or updated weighted golf course information from the server 20 via the wireless transceiver 72 or the connector section 26.
  • the controller 30 may also be configured to record a shot position (i.e., the ball position) and, optionally, associated information in the memory 32 in response to a user commend.
  • the golfer may operate the user input device 18 (by pushing a button or key) to record the shot/ball position.
  • the controller 30 records the current position at the time when the button/key is pressed, with the current time (time stamp) calculated from the received GPS/GNSS signals. The number of shots may also be counted and recorded together.
  • the recorded shot positions may be sent to the external information processing device 4 or the server 20 so as to manage scores and to collect shot position information.
  • the controller 30 may continuously calculate and update the current position in real time, and shows, in response to a user command, the distance from the recorded shot position to the current position.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 may also calculate and record the flying distance (range) of each shot.
  • the controller 30 may automatically determine the next hole based on the current position and a direction in which the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 is moving.
  • the display 16 may automatically and selectively display, under control of the controller 30, the indication of the golf course items in the next hole and distance thereto with respective emphasis in accordance with the associated weight information stored in the memory 32.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 transmits the update of the weighted golf course information to the external device 4 or the server 20 via the wireless transceiver 72 or the connector section 26 along with identification information of the apparatus.
  • Other information recorded in the memory 32 may also be transmitted to the external information processing device 4 (such as a personal computer, game consol, and the like) or the server 20 via the wireless transceiver 72 or the connector section 26.
  • the transmission of the update of the weighted golf course information (and other stored information) may be automatically performed periodically, or when the change is made and stored in the memory 32, or in response to the user's command.
  • the controller 30 may also be configured to transmit in real time the current position of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 to the external information processing device 4 via the wireless transceiver 72 during the play.
  • the external information processing device 4 may be placed on a golf cart so as to monitor the current positions of the golfers in the party. Current positions of all of the golf players in a hole may be monitored by a golf course management by receiving the information from the external device on each golf cart.
  • the sever 20 receives the updated weighted golf course info ⁇ nation from the portable golf navigation apparatuses 10, and selectively integrates the received updated weighted golf course information so as to create and maintain global weighted golf course information.
  • the global weighted golf course information is recorded in a server memory and made available to the portable golf navigation apparatuses 10.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 may obtain the global weighted golf course information directly from the server 20 (via the communications network 2) or from the external information processing device 4 which is in communication with the server 20. [0059] In order to selectively integrate the received weighted golf course information, for example, the server 20 modifies the weight value of the received weighted golf course information based on the reliability. Each of the portable golf navigation apparatuses 10 may be assigned with a reliability weight associated with their identification information, which indicates the reliability or trustworthiness of the information sent by that portable golf navigation apparatus 10. Thus, the information from a highly reliable portable golf navigation apparatus 10 is assigned with a high weight value and thus is more likely to be adopted in the global weighted golf course information, or supersede the previous information, and vise versa.
  • the server 20 may also perform strategic analysis on the received information to analyze the position information of golfer-defined intermediate targets (strategic points) for each golf course and hole, taking into account both of the skill level of the golfer (scores) and the reliability associated with the portable golf navigation apparatus 10.
  • the server 20 may extract optimal or suggested strategic intermediate positions for each golf course or hole and assign suitable weight values.
  • the server 20 also manages other information such as comment information or voice messages associated with golf course items. Since the accumulated and integrated information is available to other portable golf navigation apparatuses 10, they can share the useful information as the community information.
  • the global weighted golf course information is obtained as a result of the selective integration of the received weighted golf course information, weight value adjustment, strategic analysis on the accumulated data (position information), confirming the correctness of the information, correcting errors, if any, prohibiting/allowing updates, and other data management performed by the server 20.
  • the server 20 may automatically perform these operations in accordance with the software program executed on the server 20. In addition, or alternatively, an operator may also manually perform or control these operations using the external information processing device 6 connected to the server 20.
  • an external information apparatus 4 which is in communication with the server 20 (via the communications network) and with the portable golf navigation apparatuses, may obtain the global weighted golf course information from the server 20 and displays the golf course items on a corresponding golf course layout.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 obtains the global weighted golf course information for desired golf course items from the server 20 or the external information processing device 6, via the wireless transceiver 72 or the connector section 26 so as to update the weighted golf course information stored in the memory 32.
  • the operation of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 is explained in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 After the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 is turned ON using the power switch 14, the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 starts receiving GPS/GNSS signals from the GPS/GNSS satellites, and the controller 30 calculates the current position (latitude and longitude) of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 based on the GPS/GNSS signals received via the GPS/GNSS receiver 40.
  • the controller 30 may also obtain the date, time, altitude, moving direction, velocity, and the like.
  • the controller 30 automatically searches and determines golf course facilities (or country clubs) close to the current position.
  • the controller 30 searches through the weighted golf course information stored in the memory 32 for golf course facilities or country clubs having the position information (a latitude range and a longitude range) close to the current position.
  • the latitude and longitude ranges may be specified by the maximum and minimum coordinate values.
  • the display 16 displays a certain geographical area around the current position X.
  • the current position X may be placed at the center of a horizontal line about one-third above the bottom of the display 16, as shown in FIG. 4. It should be noted that the current position X may not be actually displayed on the display 16, or may be displayed as a small dot.
  • the size of the area to be displayed on the display 16 depends on the category of the golf course items. For example, for golf course facilities and golf clubs, an area covering a few miles to several tens of miles from the current position may be displayed. On the other hand, for target positions within a hole, an area encompassing the entire hole would be sufficient for the first shot.
  • the display 16 may have a top bar area 56 showing the category of the golf course items being displayed, current time, current hole and shot information, and the like.
  • category may include golf course facilities, golf courses, holes, target positions within a hole, and the like.
  • the controller 30 calculates locations on the display 16 corresponding to the positions (latitudes and longitudes) of country clubs A, B, C, D, and also retrieves the associated weight information from the memory 32.
  • the display 16 displays, being controlled by the controller 30, names of the golf course facilities (country clubs) having high weight values such that the golf course facilities having the highest weight value (country club A) is displayed at the center of the display 16 in the most conspicuous manner.
  • FIG. 1 In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG.
  • each of the names of the country clubs is displayed in a substantially rectangular frame 44 with a pointed leg 46 indicating the location of the country club. That is, the tip 48 of the pointed leg 46 is the location of the country club on the display 16.
  • the positions of the country clubs A, B, C,... are mapped onto the display 16 as a respective tip 48 of the pointed leg 46 such that the frame 44 containing the name of the country club is popping up from the location of the country club (tip point 48).
  • the name frames 44 are arranged on the display 16 such that the name of the golf club with the highest weight value comes to the center.
  • the length of the pointed leg 46 may correspond to the distance from the current position to the country club.
  • the country club A having the highest weight value is presented with thicker frame lines, larger frame, and/or larger font.
  • the higher the weight value the darker (i.e., with a higher gray value) and thicker the line A different color, or a bolder color may be used depending on the weight values.
  • the lower the weight value the paler (i.e., with a lower gray value) and thinner the line. Color gradation may also be used in accordance with the weight values.
  • the frame of country club A may be displayed in front, and fames of other country clubs B, C, ..., with lower weight values may be displayed in back, being superimposed or overlapped by the frame of country club A, as shown in FIG. 5.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 may obtain the updated information from the server 20 and display it on the display 16. The contents of the memory 32 (the weighted golf course information) may also be updated accordingly.
  • the controller 30 automatically detects and displays holes having high weight values (i.e., having high probabilities that the golfer will start playing in that hole) from the current position by searching the weighted golf course information stored in the memory 32.
  • the hole #1 which is most likely to be used as the start hole, has the highest weight value and thus the name of the item ("Hl") is displayed in the center portion of the display 16 in the most conspicuous manner, within the enhanced frame 62, for example.
  • the distance from the current position to the teeing ground of hole is also calculated and displayed in the same frame.
  • the teeing ground has a high weight value due to its high probability to be used as the starting point of the golf play, and thus it is selected for calculating the distance to the hole.
  • the tip 68 of the pointed leg 64 indicates the position of the teeing ground of the hole.
  • the hole #10 (“HlO"), which might be used as the start hole although such a probability is lower than that of the hole #1, is also displayed with the distance from the current position to its teeing ground.
  • the names of the hole #11 (“Hl 1) and the hole #13 (“H13”) are also displayed because they are more closer to the current position than other holes. Their probability to be used as the start hole (i.e., the weight values) is low but still slightly higher than other holes.
  • the names of the holes with lower weight values are displayed weakly, with broken-line frames or using a weaker color, for example. Other holes in the golf course are not displayed. It should be noted that since the names of the holes (i.e., frames thereof) may overlap with each other such that the name with the highest weight value is placed at the front ("front frame"), part of other frames ("back frame”) or pointed legs 64 of the back frames may be hidden behind the front frame.
  • the top bar area 56 may display the category of the golf course items ("Nearby Holes") and the current time.
  • the controller 30 automatically detects the current hole (i.e., the start hole Hl in this example) from the weighted golf course information stored in the memory 32.
  • the controller 30 determines which golf course items within the current hole to be displayed based on the weight values and the current position, and also calculates the respective distances from the current position to the golf course items to be displayed.
  • the display 16 displays, under the control of the controller 30, the golf course items and the distance thereto, with respective conspicuousness/emphasis in accordance with the weights.
  • a right-side bunker in the fairway (a bunker in the right half of the fairway) may also have a high weight, although it may lower than that of the right-side green, since golfers are most likely referred to the right-side bunker that is likely to obstruct the way to the right-side green when they try to reach it.
  • the front edge of the right-side green (“Right Green Front”) with the highest weight value is displayed most conspicuously with the distance thereto ("513y") in the thickest frame 66 and with large font.
  • the tip 68 of the pointed leg corresponds to the location of the front edge of the right-side green.
  • the center of the right-side green (“Right Green Center”) and the right-side bunker (“Right Bunker”) are also displayed in a less conspicuous way in the back of the right-side green.
  • the left-side green (the front edge and the center thereof) is also displayed, since it has a weight smaller than that of the right-side green and the right- side bunker but still grater than other golf course items. They may be displayed with broken-line frames or with a weaker color.
  • the most emphasized golf course item and the distance thereto may be announced as a voice message from the audio output device 24.
  • other golf course/hole information such as the hole mane (the number of the hole), the par number, the number of shots, and current time may be displayed on the upper bar region 56.
  • the displayed golf course items are selectable using the user input device 18, and the selected golf course item is then displayed in the most conspicuous manner.
  • the golfer may select (i.e., referred to) the front edge of the left-side green ("Left Green Front") using the buttons/keys of the user input device 18.
  • the controller 30 recognizes the selection operation of the user and updates (i.e., increases) the weight value of the selected golf course item, the front edge of the left-side green and the distance thereto are now displayed with more emphasis, as shown in FIG. 7B.
  • the update information of the weight is recorded on the memory 32.
  • the weight value of the selected item is increased such that the selected item is displayed in a more conspicuous or enhanced manner.
  • the change in the weight value is recorded so as to update the weight information in the memory 32. It should be noted that although "Left Green Front" is not displayed in the center of the display 16 in FIG. 7B, the selected item may be shifted to the center of the display.
  • the increased weight value for the conspicuous/emphasized display is recorded so as to maintain the changed display priority such that the selected golf course item will be displayed with emphasis when the golfer visit the same hole next time.
  • the change in the weight value i.e., the increased amount
  • ⁇ ⁇ (0 ⁇ ⁇ ⁇ 1)
  • the weight value of the selected golf course item in the memory 32 is incremented by a certain amount such that the updated weight value does not exceed, at the first time selection, the highest weight value assigned to another golf course item.
  • the priority of conspicuous/emphasized display is changed after the specific golf course item is selected several times. It should be noted that if ⁇ is set equal to 1, this corresponds to the specific case where the change in the priority is made by the single selection. In either way, the weight information is updated in accordance with the pattern of gofer's referencing to the golf course items.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 (the controller 30 thereof) recognizes or determines the next hole from the current position and the moving direction of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10.
  • the controller 30 retrieves the weighted golf course information from the memory 32 and calculates the distance thereto.
  • the display 16 changes its display and now displays golf course items in the next hole and the respective distances thereto with predetermined emphasis in accordance with the weight values.
  • the golfer i.e., the current position
  • the golf course item with the highest weigh and the distance thereto may be announced as a voice message from the audio output device 24.
  • FIG. 8 schematically illustrates an example of the layout of a hole (hole #4).
  • the golfer the portable golf navigation apparatus 10
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 may display the intermediate target and the distance thereto with the strongest emphasis, as shown in FIG. 9 A.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 recognizes/senses the change in the direction (using the sensor 50).
  • the display changes, under control of the controller 30, so as to emphasize the golf course item in the aimed direction and the distance thereto, as shown in FIG. 9B.
  • the front edge of the green (“Green Front") is displayed in the center of the display 16 with emphasis.
  • any comments information is associated with the golf course item, such as "Trees lie in the way", "Aim between trees", it is also displayed on the display 16, typically below the one-third horizontal line.
  • the weight value of the golf course item is further increased and the golf course item is displayed with further emphasis, such as stronger frame, larger font, and the like.
  • FIG. 9A the location of the center of the green and the front edge of the green (i.e., tips of the respective pointed legs) are not shown in the display 16 because they are outside of the displayed area.
  • the controller 30 changes the display 16 so as to display the golf course items and the distance thereto for the next shot in accordance with their weight values.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 also keeps track of the movement (i.e., the trajectory) thereof. If the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 stays substantially still or with minimum movement for a prolonged time period, the controller 30 check the current position against the position information of golf course items.
  • the weight information is also updated in accordance with the moving pattern or action pattern of the golfer.
  • the entire trajectory of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 can also be considered as the golfer's moving pattern, and the weight values of the golf course items located in the vicinity of the trajectory may be increased and the update is recorded in the memory 32.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 automatically update the weight information of the golf course items based on the referring pattern and moving/action pattern of the golfer, and the update is recorded on the memory 32, as described above.
  • the current weight (W n ) for emphasized display is expressed as:
  • W n F(s, p, d, t) + F n . 1 + F 0
  • F(s, p, d, t) is the current weight change that is a function of at least one of: the golfer's selection/referring operation (s); the current position (p) of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10; the current orientation (d) of the portable golf navigation apparatus 10; and the time period (t) during which the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 stands substantially still in the vicinity of the position of the golf course item.
  • F(s, p, d, t) is calculated by the controller 30.
  • F n-1 is the previous weight change stored in the memory 32, which may be the result of the history of the updates or obtained from the server 20 as updated weight information.
  • Fo is the initial/default value assigned to the golf course item when the weighted golf course information is created. If the record in the memory 32 is reset, the weight value for each of the golf course items may return to the initial value F 0 . [0079] When the update for the weight is stored, the recorded weight change F n is expressed as:
  • F n ⁇ F(s, p, d, t), where 0 ⁇ ⁇ ⁇ 1.
  • the weight values may be adjusted or otherwise normalized among the certain golf course items, for example, golf course items within in the same hole, such that the weight values remain within a certain range, for example, between 0 and 100. As a result, the weight values of the golf course items which are not referred to will be automatically lowered. Accordingly, by changing/updating the weight values in accordance with the golfer's referring pattern and moving pattern (including the trajectory), and by recording the update in the memory 32, the weight information is automatically customized for the golfer, such that the golf course item which is most likely to be referred to by the golfer is displayed in the most conspicuous manner.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 heuristically determines and displays the most needed information (golf course items) in the most conspicuous way. This helps the golfers to make strategic decisions more speedy and more intuitively.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 has a "creation" or "new information" operation mode in which new golf course information is created. More specifically, in the creation mode, a user can create information of new golf course items with associated position information using the portable golf navigation apparatus 10. Thus function can be used, for example, when the memory 32 does not have golf course information or golf course item information for a new or renovated golf course.
  • the creation mode may be activated using the user input device 18.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 tracks the current positions and creates a trajectory thereof, which is automatically recorded in the memory 32.
  • the user may walk across a hole so as to create a trajectory, and register the trajectory by associating with the golf course item, "hole", using the user input device 18.
  • the controller 30 stores the name of the golf course item ("hole") with the associated position information (for example, ranges of coordinates) obtained from the trajectory in the memory 32 as new golf course information.
  • the user may also move around a bunker to record a circular trajectory enclosing the bunker, and register the trajectory by associating with a golf course item "bunker.” Based on these user operations, the controller 30 creates and stores new golf course information for the bunker with its position information obtained from the trajectory.
  • the controller 30 may calculate the center and edge positions (latitude and longitude) and stores them as the position information for the new golf course item, "bunker".
  • New golf course item information and position information for a green may be created in a similar manner by walking along the edge of the green.
  • the user may register specific locations, such as the front edge of green and the center of green, by associating a short trajectory or current position with golf course item names "Green Front,” “Green Center.”
  • a user/golfer-specified intermediate target (strategic target) may also be created by registering a closed trajectory or current position by associating with "Intermediate Target.”
  • the controller 30 may assign predetermined initial/default weight values to the new golf course items and record in the memory 32 as the weighted golf course information for the new hole or golf course.
  • the user may be allowed to set a user specified weight to a golf course item, such as the strategic intermediate target.
  • the golfer/user can create and resister the correct position information for the golf course item in a similar manner.
  • the new trajectory or the current position may be registered as the corrected position information by associating with the existing golf course item.
  • the new golf course information with the corrected position information is stored in the memory 32.
  • the controller 30 may assign a specific weight value within a certain range (or a rank) to the new information for correcting the existing position information.
  • the predetermined range of the weight value for such correction is 31 to 70 points, where the higher the points, the higher the weight (more important).
  • the new information (corrected position information) for a golf course item is assigned with the weight of 64 points. If the previously assigned weight value of the same golf course item is lower than the predetermined range, say 30 points, the position information is corrected and the new weight of 64 points is assigned, such that the golf course item with the corrected position information will be displayed in accordance with the new weight of 64 points. On the other hand, if the previously assigned weight value of the golf course item is higher than the predetermined range, say 100 points, the previous position information is not changed or overwritten, although the new position information is created.
  • the position information which should not be changed or corrected may have the initial weight value higher than the predetermined weight range for correction.
  • the golf course items with the position information given by the golf course management may have a weight value of 100 points (practically prohibiting the change), and the golf course items with new position information for correction may have a predetermined weight value of 64 points.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 transmits update information for the weighted golf course information, additional information (such as comment information) created/input during the golf play, and shot information (position information of the ball) to the external information processing device 4, or to the server 20 (via the communications network 2), using the connector section 26 or the wireless transceiver 72.
  • the update information of the weighted golf course information includes (a) updated weight information reflecting the reference pattern and moving pattern of the golfer, (b) newly created golf course items and associated position information for new golf courses/holes, (c) new golf course information for correcting position information. Information (b) and (c) is also associated with respective weight information, as described above.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 transmits the updated golf course information and other information with its identification information.
  • the server 20 receives the updated golf course information and other information from a number of portable golf navigation apparatuses 10 via the communications network 2 and the external information processing devices 4.
  • the server 20 integrates and manages the received information. That is, the server 20 aggregates and arranges the weighted golf course information, makes corrections, and controls update/corrections of the information.
  • the server 20 may lock or prohibit updating or rewriting certain golf course information.
  • the weight value of the received golf course information is reduced when the update golf course information is recorded in its memory.
  • certain update/corrected position information of a golf course item which is stored in the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 with the weight value of 64 points may have the weight value of 32 points in the server 20.
  • the amount of reduction may depend on the reliability of the source of the update information, for example, reliability associated with identification information of the respective portable golf navigation apparatuses 10.
  • information sent from a portable golf navigation apparatus 10 associated with a golf course manager highly reliable
  • that sent from a portable golf navigation apparatus 10 whose position information largely deviates from the position information sent from others may be differentiated.
  • a higher weight is assigned to the information from a reliable source (portable golf navigation apparatus 10) such that such information is used for updating the information in the server 30.
  • the position of the center of a green may vary depending on the portable golf navigation apparatuses 10 which created the position information.
  • specific position information latitude and longitude which has high concentration of data from a large number of portable golf navigation apparatuses 10 may have a high weight value such that the more reliable position is adopted.
  • the server 20 gathers the updated golf course information for a specific course and holes, for example, adjusts the weight values thereof based on the reliability of the information, so as to optimize the update information and create "global" updated golf course information.
  • the server 20 can create and maintain the global weighted golf course information which is the latest and most accurate.
  • the server 20 may create a subset of the portable golf navigation apparatuses 10 (i.e., golfers associated with the identification information of the portable golf navigation apparatuses 10) so as to create the weighted golf course information suitable for a certain group or community of golfers.
  • the server 20 may group the information based on the skill level (average score) of the golfers, so as to provide specific weighted golf course information including strategic position information matched to the gofers' skill levels (beginners, intermediate, advanced, professional, and the like).
  • the server 20 accumulates the ball position information (shot information) from a number of portable golf navigation apparatuses 10 and extracts strategically important intermediate target positions.
  • shots information shot information
  • an intermediate target position can be extracted as a small area (range of coordinates) on which many ball positions falls. For example, if many of good golfer's second shots fall on a certain spot beyond the center bunker, that spot is determined to be a strategic intermediate target for achieving a good score.
  • the server 20 stores other information, such as comment information, voice message information, and identification information, by associating with the golf course items.
  • the server 20 may also maintain the global weighted golf course information in such a manner that the data is retrievable based on specific criteria or category, for example, the identification information, specific golf course items, the range or ranks of the weight values, the source of the information, and the like.
  • the server 20 stores the global weighted golf course information and makes it available to the external information processing devices 4 and the portable golf navigation apparatuses 10 via the communications network 2.
  • the external information processing devices 4 and the portable golf navigation apparatuses 10 can obtain such information from the server via the communications network 2.
  • the external information processing devices 4 are typically able to display the obtained information on its display.
  • FIG. 10 schematically illustrates an example of the external information processing device 4 displaying the updated global weighted golf course information obtained from the server 20. As shown in FIG. 10, the golf course items and the rank of the weight are displayed on a course layout. In this example, the weight values are classified into four ranks: High (double circle); Medium (single circle); Low (triangle); and Very Low (cross).
  • Certain comment information is also displayed (such as "Caution: Trees"). When there are too many golf course items, those of the very low weight may not be displayed.
  • the golf course items with the High weight are displayed conspicuously (with strong emphasis) on the portable golf navigation apparatus 10, as described above.
  • each portable golf navigation apparatus 10 also obtains necessary global weighted golf course information from the server 20 (via the external information processing apparatus 4) and updates its own weighted golf course information in the memory 32 so as to provide better assistance to the golfers. Assigning a higher weight value for the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 (i.e., the golfer) that sends more reliable information also provides an incentive and motivation for the golfers to provide more accurate information to the server 20.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 may continuously, periodically, or intermittently transmits its current position to the external information processing device 4 (such as one on a golf cart), or to other portable golf navigation apparatus 10.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatus 10 may also transmits certain contents of the memory 32 to the external information processing device 4 or to other portable golf navigation apparatus 10.
  • the external information processing device 4 may display on the course layout the current positions of the portable golf navigation apparatuses 10 (i.e., a group of golfers playing together) based on the transmitted information.
  • Other information such as the comment information may also displayed, and the voice messages may also be output from the external information processing device 4 so as to be shared by a group of the golfers.
  • the portable golf navigation apparatuses 10 may communicate each other through the external information processing device 4.
  • user-specified position information may also used as the golf course items, such as the pin (cup) position of the day provided by the golf course management, by inputting via the user input device 18.
  • the golfer may also input specific golf course items such as his/her own strategic target positions and register with desirable weight values so as to be displayed on the portable golf navigation apparatus 10.
  • golfers are able to instantly see the golf course items that are strategically important. Since the golf course items are displayed with emphasis in accordance with its importance, the golfers do not have to manually input position information or search through the golf course items to select an important golf course item. Thus, golfers can concentrate in hitting balls, facilitating smooth and efficient golfing. Emphasized display helps golfers to intuitively see the important target and make strategic decisions. Using the edge or center of a green as the golf course item reduces the necessity of frequent updates compared with using the pin/cup positions which are arbitrarily changed by the golf course management.
  • the server that collects the updated weighted golf course information from a number of portable golf navigation apparatuses, more reliable, updated weighted golf course information is created for various golf courses.
  • the golf course information for new courses and holes can also be collected and maintained at the server. Since individual portable golf navigation apparatuses (i.e., the golfers) can share the updated information among themselves via the server or the external information processing device, the burden on the golf course managements in creating and providing such information can be reduced.
  • the additional information such as the comment information based on experience provides practical tips useful for other golfers.

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  • Remote Sensing (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Radar, Positioning & Navigation (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Educational Technology (AREA)
  • Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • Educational Administration (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Mathematical Physics (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • Instructional Devices (AREA)
  • Position Fixing By Use Of Radio Waves (AREA)
  • Navigation (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention porte sur un appareil de navigation de golf portatif, qui comprend un dispositif de commande, une mémoire, un récepteur GPS/GNSS, une section d'affichage, un émetteur/récepteur sans fil, une section de connecteur pour effectuer des communications bidirectionnelles, et un dispositif d'entrée d'utilisateur pour recevoir des commandes d'utilisateur. Les informations de parcours de golf pondérées comprennent des noms et des informations de position des éléments de parcours de golf et des informations de poids associées à chacun des éléments de parcours de golf. Le dispositif de commande calcule une position actuelle de l'appareil en fonction des signaux GPS/GNSS reçus, et calcule une distance de la position actuelle à un élément de parcours de golf en fonction des informations de position stockées dans la mémoire. La section d'affichage affiche de façon sélective, sous la commande du dispositif de commande, l'indication de l'élément de parcours de golf, et, éventuellement, la distance calculée par rapport à celui-ci, avec une accentuation telle que la force de l'accentuation est fonction des informations de poids associées à l'élément de parcours de golf.
PCT/JP2009/064277 2008-08-05 2009-08-04 Système de navigation de golf et appareil de navigation de golf portatif WO2010016616A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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JP2008-201739 2008-08-05
JP2008201739A JP4685137B2 (ja) 2008-08-05 2008-08-05 ゴルフ用ナビゲーションシステム

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WO2010016616A1 true WO2010016616A1 (fr) 2010-02-11

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TWI743583B (zh) * 2019-11-05 2021-10-21 孟菁 高爾夫球場路徑導引系統

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TWI743583B (zh) * 2019-11-05 2021-10-21 孟菁 高爾夫球場路徑導引系統

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