WO2018192863A1

WO2018192863A1 - A dynamically adaptive pace of play monitor module, system and method thereof

Info

Publication number: WO2018192863A1
Application number: PCT/EP2018/059605
Authority: WO
Inventors: Stephen Brown
Original assignee: Calltronics Limited
Priority date: 2017-04-18
Filing date: 2018-04-13
Publication date: 2018-10-25
Also published as: GB2561566A; GB201706092D0

Abstract

A pace monitor module and system is provided for managing the pace of play on a golf course. The pace monitor module comprises: - • a first sensor assembly, adapted to detect at least one moving object at a predetermined range away from said pace monitor module and provide at least one first output signal; • a second sensor assembly, adapted to determine the position and/or orientation of said pace monitor module and provide at least one second output signal; • at least one transceiver, adapted to transmit and receive radio signals to and from at least one other of said pace monitor module and/or a base station; • a power source, adapted to provide power to said first sensor assembly, said second sensor assembly and said at least one transceiver; • at least one signalling device, adapted to provide a predetermined information signal; • a controller configured to control the power supply from said power source to any one of said second sensor assembly and said at least one transceiver, utilising said at least one first output signal, • and wherein said controller is further adapted to: - detect a predetermined change of the position and/or orientation of said pace monitor module, determine at least one first play time interval from a first time signal, triggered by said predetermined change, - and a prior time signal, received from at least one other of said pace monitor module and/or base station via said at least one transceiver, - compare said at least one first play time interval to a predetermined threshold, - and provide any one of a first information signal, when said at least one first time interval is greater than said predetermined threshold, - a second information signal, when said at least one first time interval is less than said predetermined threshold, - and at least a third information signal, when said at least one first time interval is within a predetermined range from said predetermined threshold.

Description

A DYNAMICALLY ADAPTIVE PACE OF PLAY MONITOR MODULE, SYSTEM AND METHOD THEREOF

The present invention generally relates to a pace of play monitoring system, and in particular, to a pace monitor module and system for dynamically and adaptively monitoring and managing the pace of play of one or more groups of players on a golf course.

Introduction

Golf is one of the most popular games in the world that is enjoyed by a great number of participants. Pace of play and membership management on a golf course are critical to the enjoyment and successful operation of both golf facilities and tournament golf.

Slow play

Slow play is a constant problem for golf clubs and there are many proposed detection systems for progressing groups of golfers and golf carts around a course. In particular, slow play is a situation where it takes longer than it should to complete, for example, an 18-hole round. If it normally would take '4.5' hours, during a slow play situation it might take '5' or even '5.5' hours. When play is extremely slow, golfers have to wait on every tee and every fairway for the player or group of players ahead to finish, before the following player or group of players can proceed.

One of the contributing factors to slow play may be 'overcrowding', which can result in a demand for tee times that is so great that the time allotted between subsequent groups teeing off is kept relatively short. The golfer's individual behaviour may also contribute to slow play. For example, some golfers may take too many practice swings before hitting their shot, or players spend an inordinate amount of time looking for a lost ball. Furthermore, having a large number of weaker players or groups of players on the course is likely to provoke slow play simply because a weaker player is likely to hit more shots than a stronger player.

In addition, golf courses that tend to be extremely difficult can also be a contributing factor to slow play, as players encounter more hazards considerably more shots are required to finish the course. Currently available solutions range from people counters and movement sensors to radio detection and may only provide timing information for a consistent order of golfers and hole movements. As soon as any variables are introduced, these systems fail to adapt, accommodate or correct for these variables.

Common variables in golf may include the following:

- a faster group "play through" a slower group and change the order of the field;

- a group decides to skip a hole or a leg of the course;

- a group may quit the course so as to leave a gap in the player field;

- a group may join the player field other than via the first "check-in" hole;

- a slow group may restrict subsequent groups to maintain a normal pace.

As a result of the variables, the timing information provided by the currently available systems may be invalidated.

For example, document US2004/0203410A1 describes the use of movement sensors and flag replacement sensors to trigger transmitters, which then send information back to a central unit to process the signal and determine the speed of play. However, with no information as to which group or individual player may have triggered the event, no tracking or speed of play can be made, unless the whole field (i.e. complete groups and individual players on the course) remain in order and do not deviate from that order.

In another example, currently available system may utilise simple sensors to detect flag movement, so as to determine and record an arrival time of an individual or group of players. However, these sensors and/or systems are generally required to be pre-fitted to the flag pole and/or hole cup making the solution proprietary and difficult to change or fit to existing equipment. In addition, the switch sensors must be fitted in the vicinity of the cup, where they are exposed to aggressive environmental damage and require additional protection using appropriate sealing.

Membership monitoring

In addition, golf courses are inherently sprawling open spaces of land which are difficult to "police" without employing a multitude of course marshals or monitored CCTV systems (Closed-Circuit Television). Combining this with the multitude of membership types and visitor payments provides clubs with an impossible task of policing players. The impossible task of policing then forces clubs to offer only simplified options to visitors and casual players to purchase 18 holes. This in turn requires players minimum allocate of four hours of time to complete the play. The option of 9 holes or any other division is just too hard to implement, manage and police against abuse. A system whereby a fraction of the course can be paid for and played enables everyone with limited available time to play the game who otherwise would not

Currently available solutions addressing these problems are usually based on automatic monitors, such as, for example, GPS (Global Positioning System) or RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) location devices.

However, the problem with CCTV is that the user(s) only has a limited directional viewing area, and constant monitoring and interpretation of the video is required to identify any potential membership issues.

The problem with GPS (or any other GNSS) based monitoring/tracking is one of cost. Whilst it may be cost effective and feasible to fit every golf cart with a GPS tracking device, it is certainly not very cost-efficient, feasible or manageable from an administration point of view to issue each player with a personal GPS tracker.

Thus, common player tracking solutions, that are viable and cost effective, usually involve system solutions utilising, for example, RFID readers and RFID identification tags. These systems are employed universally for security entry systems and alike. In particular, RFID systems operate by the radio waves of the RFID reader and RFID tag being in the activation or reading range of each other. However, this range is highly dependent on the RF (Radio Frequency) power transmitted by the devices, which in turn is proportional to the power drawn from the battery. Hence the longer the reading range, the more power is required from the power source (e.g. battery).

Two different RFID solutions may be utilised: (i) Fixed reader

Here, the reader sends out a signal and any portable tag devices in the area 'wake up' and respond with their unique data information. In this scenario the reader requires to be constantly transmitting the reading signal at a power level reflective of the target range of the tag device. The tag device can be battery powered as it only responds to requests and therefore remains idle most of the time. The reader constantly repeating transmissions and at a power to achieve the targeted range, requires significant power from either a direct supply or large batteries.

(ii) Portable reader

The second solution is where the tag device is fixed and the reader is portable. As the reader passes the location of a fixed tag device, it will activate the tag device and read its information. The portable reader is required to continuously transmit a signal so as to detect the tags. As can be quickly surmised, these portable readers require a large permanent power source, and are therefore usually limited to golf carts that allow such suitably large batteries to be installed.

As a result, currently available RFID systems require at least one of the reader or tag device to be significantly and continuously powered. However, unless daily recharging is available, the use of battery power with the available systems is not particularly practical or feasible.

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a pace monitoring and membership managing system that is easy to install on a golf course, has a significantly improved power efficiency and is [dynamically] adaptable to any variables encountered in golf play.

Summary of the Invention

Preferred embodiment(s) of the invention seek to overcome one or more of the disadvantages of the prior art.

According to a first embodiment of the invention, there is provided a pace monitor module for managing the pace of play on a golf course, comprising: ~ a first sensor assembly, adapted to detect at least one moving object at a predetermined range away from said pace monitor module and provide at least one first output signal;

~ a second sensor assembly, adapted to determine the position and/or orientation of said pace monitor module and provide at least one second output signal;

~ at least one transceiver, adapted to transmit and receive radio signals to and from at least one other of said pace monitor module and/or a base station;

~ a power source, adapted to provide power to said first sensor assembly, said second sensor assembly and said at least one transceiver;

~ at least one signalling device, adapted to provide a predetermined information signal;

~ a controller configured to control the power supply from said power source to any one of said second sensor assembly and said at least one transceiver, utilising said at least one first output signal, and wherein said controller is further adapted to:

- detect a predetermined change of the position and/or orientation of said pace monitor module,

- determine at least one first play time interval from a first time signal, triggered by said predetermined change, and a prior time signal, received from at least one other of said pace monitor module and/or base station via said at least one transceiver,

- compare said at least one first play time interval to a predetermined threshold,

And

- provide any one of a first information signal, when said at least one first time interval is greater than said predetermined threshold, a second information signal, when said at least one first time interval is less than said predetermined threshold, and at least a third information signal, when said at least one first time interval is within a predetermined range from said predetermined threshold.

This provides the advantage of significantly improved energy efficiency, as the majority of the required electric power is only provided when actually needed, i.e. when a player or group of players is approaching. Furthermore, the invention allows establishing a monitoring and managing system dynamically adaptive to any changes during play. In particular, because the pace monitor module is adapted to communicate with a base station, as well as, other pace monitor modules, for example, by forming a mesh network topology, each player or group of players can be explicitly identified and tracked, irrespective of any changes in the order of play due to drop-outs, overtaking, or joins. In addition, the present invention provides the advantage of a simple and robust pace of play indicator, providing instant and easy to understand information to the player or group of players of their current pace, i.e., whether or not, they are on time, in danger to fall behind or too slow, therefore, prompting the player or group of players to correct the pace, if required.

Advantageously, the first sensor assembly may comprise a motion sensor configured to detect motion within a predetermined field of view. Preferably, the motion sensor may comprise at least one infrared sensor. This provides the advantage that only moving (e.g. approaching) players or a group of players triggers the sensors into action. The field of view can be chosen so as to predominantly detect human shapes rather than any small animal.

Advantageously, the second sensor assembly may comprise at least one accelerometer and at least one gyroscope, adapted to determine motion in six axes.

Preferably, the controller may comprise at least one programmable microprocessor adapted to process input data received from any one of said first and second sensor assembly and said transceiver. Advantageously, the pace monitor module may further comprises at least one Global Satellite Navigation System (GNSS) receiver, operably coupled to said controller and adapted to provide location data.

Advantageously, the transceiver comprises at least one RFID transceiver, adapted to trigger and receive identification data from a corresponding mobile RFID tag. Preferably, the controller may be further configured to control the power supply from said power source to said RFID transceiver, utilising said at least one first output signal. This provides the advantage that individual players or groups of players can be identified at each hole, eliminating any potential errors in the order of play.

Advantageously, the pace monitor module may be adapted to form a communication network with at least one other of said pace monitor module and/or a remote base station. Preferably, the topology of said communication network may be a mesh network. This allows optimal communication and transfer of information between and to any or all of the pace monitor modules and base station.

Advantageously, the pace monitor module may be adapted to be removably mounted to a flag pole.

Preferably, the predetermined object may be at least one player.

Advantageously, the at least one signalling device may be adapted to selectively generate light signals of any one of a plurality of colours. Alternatively or additionally, the signalling device may be adapted to selectively generate audible signals at any one of a plurality of frequencies.

Advantageously, the predetermined change of the position and/or orientation may include any one of a tilt angle, a distance from a first reference point, an acceleration, a speed and a position. This provides the advantage of a high level of accuracy and certainty that a player or group of players has arrived at the green and deliberately removed the flag pole from the hole, therefore, ensuring that the correct timing is recorded, and none of the positional sensors or switches requires locating in the hole or embodiment in the flag. Advantageously, the controller may be further adapted to assign a characterising identifier to said first time signal. This provides the advantage that the correct pace of play can be established for individual players and group of players irrespective of any changes in the order of play.

Advantageously, the controller may be adapted to dynamically adapt said predetermined threshold and/or said predetermined range. This provides the advantage that a player or a group of players is not erroneously or unfairly warned for slow play if specific circumstances justify the determined pace. In particular, the controller may be configured to receive and process additional information that justifies and adjustment of the currently established pace of play threshold.

Preferably, the at least one transceiver may be a RF module.

According to a second embodiment of the invention, there is provided a pace of play monitoring system, comprising:

- at least one pace monitor according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

- at least one base station, adapted to form a communication network with any one of said at least one pace monitor;

- at least one mobile player identification device, adapted to receive, store and transmit player information via wireless data transfer.

Advantageously, the communication network topology may be a mesh network. Preferably, the base station may be configured to provide an controller interface for a user.

According to a third embodiment of the invention, there is provided a method for tracking and optimising the pace of play of at least one player, utilising a plurality of a pace monitor module according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the method including the steps of: a) detecting a predetermined motion of at least one player; b) activating a power supply from a power source to at least one predetermined component of at least one of said plurality of pace monitor modules; c) requesting, receiving and processing a characterising identification data of said at least one player and/or a prior time signal provided from a previous one of said plurality of pace monitor modules; d) detecting at least one predetermined change of the position and/or orientation of said at least one pace monitor module, and receive and record at least a first time signal; e) determine at least one first time interval, utilising said first time signal and said prior time signal; f) compare said at least one first time interval to a predetermined threshold; g) generate a characterising information signal corresponding to a predetermined deviation from said predetermined threshold.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only and not in any limitative sense, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows an illustration of a pace monitor module removably coupled to a typical flag pole;

Figure 2 shows a close-up perspective view of the pace monitor module of Figure 1 ;

Figure 3 shows an illustration of the pace monitor module of Figure 1 displaying individual components of the pace monitor module in an exploded view;

Figure 4 shows a simplified schematic of the flag pole motion (six degrees of freedom) detectable by the pace monitor module of the present invention when in situ;

Figure 5 shows a simplified illustration of the (a) field of view and (b) range of the movement sensor of the pace monitor module of the present invention;

Figure 6 shows a simplified functional schematic of an example embodiment of the pace monitor module of the present invention, power connections are illustrated by thick black lines, signal control connections with controller are illustrated by thin black lines;

Figure 7 shows a simplified illustration of a mesh network formed by a plurality of pace monitor modules and the base station;

Figure 8 shows example components of a pace monitor system, including (a) at least one pace monitor module, (b) a player's badge (e.g. RFID tag), (c) a network gateway (e.g. network controller in base station) and (d) a player counter;

Figure 9 shows a simplified illustration of automatically retrieving a player ID, here a RFID tag badge, attached to the golf bag and/or the player, is configured to provide ID information to the pace monitor module once in a predetermined range;

Figure 10 shows another simplified illustration of managing pace of play on a golf course, with the pace monitor module adapted to detect approaching players and activate its motion sensor and RFID reader to enable detection of flag pole motion, as well as, determining and relaying retrieved timing and player ID information to the base station and other suitable pace monitor modules. Detailed description of the preferred embodiment(s)

The exemplary embodiments of this invention will be described in relation to the game of golf on a typical golf course. However, it should be appreciated that, in general, the module, system and method of this invention is equally applicable to any other suitable activity where monitoring, tracking and managing the pace of play is of importance.

1. Module and system components

An example of a pace monitor module 100 removably coupled to a typical flag pole 102 is shown in Figures 1 to 3. Any suitable attachment mechanism may be used to secure the pace monitor module 100 to the flag pole 102 at a suitable height from the ground. For example, any suitable clamping or interference fit mechanism may be used. As shown in Figure 3, in this particular example, the pace monitor module 100 is removably attached to the flag pole 102 via two screw collars 103 and 105 that are operatively assembled within the pace monitor module 100. Each of the screw collars 103 and 105 comprises three radially acting screws 107 (e.g. M3 grub screw), that, when moved towards the centre of the screw collar 103, 105, fixingly engage with the outer surface of the flag pole 102.

It can be understood by the person skilled in the art that the collar 103. 105 and screws 107 are adapted to locate and secure the pace monitor module 100 to flag poles of various thicknesses. For example, tournament flags are approx. ¾ inch (19.05mm) at their maximum diameter, but the more common flag poles are ½ inch (12.7mm). To accommodate various flag pole thicknesses, the inner diameter of the preferred pace monitor module 100 is approximately 7/8 inch (22mm).

However, it is understood by the person skilled in the art, that any other suitable mechanism may be used to removably attach the pace monitor module to a flag pole 102.

Referring now to Figures 2 and 3 in particular, a preferred example embodiment of the pace monitor module 100 of the present invention may comprise a structural housing 104 provided by two plastic tube bodies, a central tube 106 and a main tube 108. A light reflective wrap 1 10 is positioned on the outer surface of the main tube 108. The two plastic tube bodies 106 and 108 form the structural basis of the module 100 and provide internal protection when the module 100 is fitted and removed from flag poles 102. An acrylic window member 1 12 is adhered to main tube 108, so as to form a single water tight assembly.

The main tube 108 and the central tube 106 are sealed at the top end and the bottom end by a top lid member 1 14 and a bottom lid member 1 16. The main tube 108 may adhere to the bottom lid member 1 16 using any suitable glue. In this particular example, the top and bottom lid members 1 14 and 1 16 also function as screw collars 103 and 105. However, it is understood by the person skilled in the art that the screw collars 103, 105 and the lid members can be separate entities operatively assembled so that each part can provide its dedicated function. The assembly of the pace monitor module 100 is held together, for example, by three longitudinal fastener 1 18 that couple the top lid member 1 14 to the bottom lid member 1 16 in a spaced apart arrangement.

Sandwiched between the lid members 1 14, 1 16 and held in place in recesses (not shown) are three electronic circuit boards. In particular, a power circuit board 120, a sensor circuit board 122 and a RF circuit board 124. As mentioned earlier, the main tube 108 of the pace monitor module 100 is covered by a high visibility light reflective plastic wrap 1 10.

A battery 126 is provided at the power circuit board 120. Within the pace monitor module 100, there is provided at least one accelerometer and at least one electronic gyroscope 132, both of which are connected to a microprocessor (not shown) that is configured to receive sensor data from the at least one accelerometer and the at least one electronic gyroscope 132 and calculate any movement, position and orientation changes of the pace monitor module 100, that is, when the pace monitor module 100 is attached to a flag pole 102, the microprocessor is configured to calculate any movement, position and orientation changes of the flag pole 102.

In particular, when the flag pole 102 is first placed in the hole, for example, by the green keeper cutting the hole, the microprocessor register recording the flag pole 102 position and movement is reset to zero (initialised). I.e. from this initialised flag pole 102 zero-reference position and orientation point, when the flag pole 102 is moved in any direction, position or orientation, it will be detected by the at least one accelerometer and the at least one electronic gyroscope 132 and registered by the microprocessor, according to the following events:

- The at least one accelerometer 132 detects an acceleration and deceleration applied to the flag pole 102 in any one of the possible six axes of movement.

- The at least one electronic gyroscope 132 detects in which direction the flag pole 102 moves when it is under acceleration. For example (reference to Cartesian coordinates):

(+)X = Left; (-)X = Right

(+)Y = Backward; (-)Y = Forward

(+)Z = Up; (-)Z = Down

- The microprocessor receives sensor data and, in conjunction with its internal timing clocks, calculates/determines a proportional value that is representative of the new position of the flag pole 102.

- The calculations are based on the vector application of standard distance calculations (e.g. s = ut + ½at2, with 's' being the distance travelled, 'u' being the initial velocity, 'a' being the acceleration, and being the time taken).

- As the application is only "looking" for a replacement of the flag pole, the calculations do not have to be "actual" but rather "proportional" to the movements.

- The flag pole 102 is deemed to be returned to its initial starting position (i.e. the hole), when all potentially multiple flag pole 102 vector movements added together (i.e. X, Y) sum up to a total of zero.

- When moving the flag pole 102 back, the last movement of the flag pole 102 is placing it in the cup, which will then be a 'zeroing' of the Z axis corresponding to the height of the pace monitor module 100 above ground. This event is only physically possible when the flag pole is directly above the hole, i.e. X position and Y position are also 'zeroed'.

The detectable change of position and orientation are illustrated in Figure 4, where arrows indicate the possible movement of the flag pole 102/pace monitor module 100. In particular, the possible movements (relative to its initial starting position) are up/down, forward/backward, right/left, pitch, roll and yaw (six degrees of freedom).

Referring now to Figure 5, in a preferred example embodiment, the pace monitor module 100 further comprises at least one Passive Infrared sensor (PIR) 128 and a Tricolour LED assembly (not shown in detail) operatively coupled to the controller (i.e. PCBs 120, 122, 124 including the microprocessor). In particular:

PIR Sensor

The design of the PIR sensor uses Nano-power operational amplifiers and comparators for a low-power motion detector implementation. These technologies are capable of providing an extremely long battery life.

The PIR sensor 128 may be configured to provide a sensitivity of up to 30 feet (ca. 10 m) with standby current of about 1 .65 μΑ.

The PIR sensor 128 may comprise three sensor members arranged so as to provide a full 360o field of coverage. In addition, the sensor members of the PIR sensor 128 are arranged within the acrylic window member 1 12 so as to provide a narrow field of view in the vertical plane. This maximises the successful detection of humans rather than animals on the ground or birds in the air etc.

Tri Colour LED

A plurality of LED's are operatively provided within the acrylic window member 1 12 enabling a bright band of coloured light to be generated. The high luminosity small current LED's consume very low power so that the overall power consumption is reduced. In addition the LED's are arranged so as to provide 360o coverage and are set pack towards the centre of the acrylic window member to maximise visibility in bright sun light conditions. The three preferred indicator colours are Red, Amber and Green.

Power circuit board 120

In a preferred example embodiment, the power circuit board 120 comprises a mounting for two AAAA 1 .5V alkaline batteries, providing 3V and approximately l OOOmAh. In addition to any power conditioning components of the power circuit board may also provide a Piezo- buzzer, a low-battery indicator and GPS positioning unit 134.

Sensor circuit board 122

In a preferred example embodiment, the sensor circuit board 122 provides a home for all the sensor interfaces including the PIR Interface, a vibration/shock sensor, the six-axis digital compass (gyroscope) and the 3D accelerometer. In order to control the interface and manage the whole pace monitor module 100 logic, a powerful microcontroller, such as, for example, the ARM® Cortex®-A8, is provided. This processor is adapted to perform all the logical decisions based upon the information received from the sensors and RF module.

RF circuit board 124

The RF circuit board 124 provides, for example, two radio interfaces for communicating via Bluetooth and/or UHF (Ultra High Frequency). The frequencies and power are compliant with Worldwide Radio Frequency Regulations. In addition to the radio functions, the RF circuit board 124 has another powerful microcontroller, e.g. ARM® Cortex® -M3 Processor, to control and configure the information transfer between the pace monitor module 100 and any other pace monitor module and base station.

Bluetooth may be provided by a 2.4-GHz RF transceiver compatible with Bluetooth low energy specifications. This short range two-way communicator will talk to any appropriate Bluetooth device in a short 10 m range, including, for example, mobile phones. UHF may be operated on the licence free band of 868Mhz (Europe), 915Mhz (US and Australia), which has a range of around 1 km in free space. The UHF is the radio that is used to set up a local area meshed network that enables communications between all pace monitor modules 100 and the base station 500.

Figure 6 illustrates an example schematic layout of the active components of the pace monitor module 100. In particular, the controller, comprising at least one microprocessor (including at least one timer and memory) and the logic on printed circuit boards for power control 120, motion sensor control 122 and RF controller 124, is operatively coupled to the LED lighting indicator 130, a sounder 131 (e.g. any audible signal generator), the PIR movement sensor 128 (detection of approaching players), a specific RF transceiver 125 (for transmitting and receiving any suitable communication signals, i.e. long range and short range), an optional GNSS receiver (e.g. GPS) 134, the motion sensor (e.g. accelerometer and electronic gyroscope) 132, and the power supply 126. The power supply is coupled to the RF transceiver 125, the optional GNSS receiver 134 and the motion sensor 132 via an actuator 1 that is controllable by the controller. The power supply 126 to the RF transceiver 125, the motion sensor 132 and the GNSS receiver 134 is only activated when approaching players are detected within a predetermined range from the pace monitor module 100. I.e. the movement sensor 128 generates and provides a trigger signal to the controller when detecting movement. The controller then generates and provides an activation signal to the actuator 127, so as to connect the power supply 126 and "switching on" (activating) the RF transceiver 125, the GNSS receiver 134 and the motion sensor 132. When the player(s) have completed that particular hole and move away from the green, the power supply 126 is, again, disconnected from the RF transceiver 125, the optional GNSS receiver 134 and the motion sensor 132 via the actuator 127. A deactivating signal provided by the controller may be either triggered by the movement sensor 128 or the motion sensor 132. In one example, movement of departing player(s) detected by the movement sensor 128 may be utilised to prompt the controller to provide the deactivation signal to the actuator 127. In another example, detecting the replacement of the flag pole 102 (i.e. resetting the pace monitor module 100 position) may be utilised to prompt the controller to provide the deactivation signal to the actuator. As a result, the RF transceiver 125, the GNSS receiver 134 and the motion sensor 132 are only "switched on" (activated), and therefor only drain power, when they are actually required, i.e. when there are player(s) on the green. At any other time, the RF transceiver 125, the GNSS receiver 134 and the motion sensor 132 are dormant, i.e. not using any power from the power supply 126.

Figure 7 illustrates a typical mesh-network topology formed by a plurality of pace monitor modules 100 and the base station 500. Referring now to Figure 8, additional components compatible and utilised with the pace monitor system, provided by a plurality of pace monitor modules 100 and the base station 500, may be a mobile player's badge 200, a player counter 300 and an internet gateway 400. Player's badge 200

The player's badge 200 is a small plastic pendent that houses, for example, a Bluetooth RF unit. The Bluetooth radio is short range (ca. 10 m) and is capable to communicate with any one of the pace monitor modules 100 and the base station, as well as, other Bluetooth devices. The player's badge 200 encompasses a microprocessor to enable data to be stored and read. This data can be updated over the air (OTA) using the Bluetooth radio. The player's badge 200 is powered, for example, by a lithium button cell with a nominal capacity of 200mAh, enabling it to operate for an estimated 5 years before it may need replacing.

Player counter 300

The player counter 300 may include components very similar to the PIR sensor 128 of the pace monitor module 100, with the exception that it is only "front facing", i.e. the movement sensor is directed towards the expected movement (e.g. player), enabling a count to be made. The player counter 300 is provided with an RF module and also includes light indicators and shock sensors. The player counter 300 may be provided with a tough and environmentally sealed plastic enclosure, which may be affixed to a solid structure, such as a tree, post or building, in a position where players could be counted as they pass.

Internet gateway 400

The internet gateway 400 is provided at the base station, and configured tocontrol and manage the pace monitor system. The base station may be located at the golf club house. It is mains 240V powered through a power adapter. The internet gateway 400 includes an RF module suitable to communicate with any one of the pace monitor modules 100, it usually has a larger external aerial to maximise UHF long range communications. Integral to the internet gateway 400 is the interface to the local internet through either Wi-Fi or network cable.

Software solutions

The software applications may involve three distinct application solutions (i) embedded, (ii) via cloud, (iii) via user Interface, or (iv) via mesh networking. (i) Embedded:

These are embedded applications stored in the peripherals of the system such as the pace monitor module 100, player counter 300, player's badge 200 and internet gateway 400. These units may be initially programmed (embedded) at the manufacturing site. Once installed, they can all be upgraded using, for example, the RF data transmission. The embedded software applications run locally on the microprocessor. In addition to communicating with other pace monitor modules 100 using UHF, the embedded application is capable of communicating with local sensors and indicators. This provides the localised independent function.

One of the main operations of the embedded radio microprocessor is that of providing a mesh network topology for all involved devices.

(ii) Cloud:

All the system information configurations and profiles may be communicated via the Internet gateway 400 to any remote computer (via Cloud). This cloud approach enables an off-site storage and access from any internet enabled device. The system configuration information and profile is stored in the Cloud in a database to be utilised by all applications.

(iii) User Interface:

To interface with the system, users may run proprietary Sentinel Golf Systems™ applications on PC's, Tablets and Phones. These applications enable authorised users to interact with the Cloud database thereby configuring the system and user parameters, reading live information from the system and/or statistically analysing historical information.

(iv) Mesh networking:

In the pace monitor system of the present invention, network nodes are formed by the pace monitor modules 100, the base station 500 (including the internet gateway 400) and any one of the player counters modules 300. It is in each of these that the embedded software implements a meshed network using, for example, the UHF transmission. In this particular network topology, each node is configured to relay data for the network. All mesh nodes cooperate in the distribution of data within the network. Mesh networks can relay messages by propagation along a path by 'hopping' from node to node until it reaches its destination. To ensure all its paths' availability, the network allows for continuous connections and will re-configure itself around potentially 'broken' network paths, for example, by using 'self- healing' algorithms, such as the shortest path bridging algorithm. The 'self-healing' allows the Internet gateway 400 to still provide its services when a node breaks down or when a connection becomes unreliable. As a result, the network is very reliable, as there is often more than one path between a source and a destination in the network.

2. System and module operation

The previous sections described the technical abilities of the component parts of the pace monitor module 100 and system (Sentinel Golf Systems™). In this section, the operation of the module and system is described in more details.

The aims of present invention is to enable golf clubs access to more revenue streams and deliver better product experiences without investing more time, management and additional procedures by employing technology to efficiently deliver a more controlled and greater variety of the golfing experiences.

The system of the present invention is therefore capable:

- To monitor membership and visitors use of a course;

- To provide course security and trespasser alerts;

- To enable clubs to offer more amenable membership and playing options;

- To monitor and deal with slow play;

- To analyse course pace to enable better course management;

Although, one of the main goals is to be able to predict pace of play with an accuracy high enough to allows golf courses to make tailored management decisions and/or redesign the course, accordingly.

3. Membership and Payment

Clubs offer differing memberships and flexible payments. But with this comes complexity in both administration in the office and more so policing the players on the course. The system of the present invention includes, for example, a mobile players badge 200, providing a mobile record of membership and any payment. Each player's badge 200 may contain identifying information, such as, name, club and handicap and any more detailed information.

(i) Membership

The system of the present invention is adapted to store membership details in the player's badge 200. The system is further adapted to automatically and in real-time interrogate this information and check the approval against the Club's records held, for example, in a Cloud database.

(ii) Payments

Whether the player is a guest or full member, the player's current payment status may be held in the badge 200. This payment information can be updated immediately when the player arrives at a golf course using the information available in the Cloud database. Guests and visitors' badges may be issued at the clubhouse and payments may be immediately updated to the badge from the systems applications. Any 3rd party membership management software or booking systems may update any payment information automatically to the system through the available software libraries.

For example, annual membership of clubs occurs on a set anniversary day. New and existing members receive their updated membership badge 200 depicting the year and associated colour. This practice would no longer be needed as the badges could be updated wirelessly. Therefore, any changes can be made quickly and easily by the club management. With the details of the date of joining and the member's category held on the badge 200, the ability exists for memberships to run yearly from the date of joining. This may, over time, significantly overcome the cash flow effect of a large single anniversary membership payment.

In addition, the pace monitor modules 100 provided on every hole may be utilised to enable a "Pay Per Hole" system, i.e. providing access/privileges based on players badge "credits". This provides a truly flexible and affordable membership or visitor option. During use, the players' badges 200 are interrogated at every pace monitor module 100 and the information is transmitted via to the Internet gateway 400 to a Cloud database, therefore, enabling real-time and continuous monitoring of player's/visitor's payment status, whether the player has the correct membership to be playing at that time or in the competition, or whether the player is authorised to play 9/18/36 holes or a particular course at the club.

4. Slow play

The system of the present invention implements two levels of solution to address the problem of slow play. Both solutions utilise LED light indicators to inform players of their current pace of play. For example, if the pace of play if within a predetermined time limit (Normal play) the indicator provides a green light. In case the player or group of players is(are) slower than the predetermined time limit but still within a predetermined range (i.e. not holding up following players), the indicator provides an amber light. However, if the player or group of players are slow and, as a result, holding up following players, the indicator provides a red light.

(i) Localised measurement:

In an entry level system involves utilising player counters 300 in strategic positions of each other on the course and within radio range of the Internet gateway 400. Strategic positions are identified as paths where all the players would normally have to travel. Good examples are bridges, gates and singular paths. The number of player counters 300 employed is optional and depends on the demand. The player counters 300 are deployed at suitable locations to measure the progress of all the players. The player counters 300 include a transceiver, so as to allow forming a communication network. At least one player counter 300 must be in radio range of the Internet gateway 400. As players pass the player counter 300, the following events take place:

- The PIR movement detector detects a player or group of players.

- The number of players passing the unit is counted.

- The RF module interrogates the local area for players' badges 200.

- Any detected players that do not respond via an associated players' badge 200 will be flagged at this point and appropriate messages will be transmitted. - Based on the calculated time it should take to get to this point, the unit will compare the expected time with the actual time.

- The pace of play results will indicate on the player counter front panel by illuminating the LED indicator with the respective colour.

- The timing, number of players and members' information is then all transmitted to the Cloud database.

(ii) Full course monitoring:

Full course monitoring and management is achieved by utilising the pace monitor modules 100 of the present invention in addition to the player counters 300, the internet gateway 400 and the player's badges 200. Ideally the pace monitor modules 100 are fitted to every flag pole 102 of the course, so as to allow a full course analysis. The pace monitor modules 100 and player counters 300 are set up to form a communication network with the base station 500. As each player or group of players approaches the green, the following series of events takes place:

- The PIR movement detector detects the Player(s) approaching the green.

- The RF module interrogates the local area for any player's badges 200.

- When detecting approaching players, the power supply to the flag motion sensor is activated.

- Once the flag pole 102 is replaced in the cup the actual time is recorded processed and compared to an expected time.

- The pace of play is determined and compared to a predetermined threshold.

- The pace of play results will be indicated via the LED indicator at a colour indicating the current pace of play.

- profiled timing information is then sent to the next sequential hole in the game, providing the expected arrival of the players.

It is understood by the person skilled in the art that the embodiment of the present invention allows significant reduction of energy consumption, making the use of battery power supply a viable option. In particular, the flag pole motion sensor (accelerometer, gyroscope), as well as, the RF module components (e.g. RFID reader component, long range RF components), are only activated (i.e. power supply is switched on) when a player or group of players is detected within a predetermined range. The PIR sensor are low-power sensors and are therefore used to only trigger activation of the flag pole motion sensor and RF module when an approaching player or group of players is detected. Also, when the flag pole 102 is put back into the cup, so as to reset the timer and 'zero' the flag pole 102, the event can be used to trigger deactivation (switching off power supply) of the motion sensor and RF module, reducing power consumption.

5. Security

In every golf club experiences, there is some level of problems with security, vandalism and trespassing. However, monitoring and communication over such a large sprawling area of a golf course has always been a problem. Reasonably priced radio systems cannot always cover the relatively large distances, or overcome some of the topological barriers, such as, for example, hills, trees and buildings that are provided on a golf course.

The system of the present invention (Sentinel Golf Systems™) has the potential to provide security, such as, monitoring of a range of equipment and buildings over a large sprawling area, by utilising its unique mesh network technology. Primarily the security capabilities provided in the system of the present invention is used to protect itself (i.e. system components) from abuse and vandalism, but in doing so, the system is also capable to provide a plurality of course monitoring information, such as, for example:

(i) PIR Movement detection:

As discussed previously, the pace monitor modules 100 and player counters 300 all incorporate movement detectors. For example, the pace monitor modules 100 may detect any movement in a radius of 30 feet (approx. 10m) from the flag pole 102. The player counters 300 may, as designed, detect any body moving along the precise predetermined path. When passing the player counter 300 and a badge 200 indicating, for example, a player or grounds staff, is not detected, a message may be raised and communicated back to the base station 500 (e.g. for attention of golf course administration and/or any security guard) indicating that a possible trespasser may be present. In addition to reporting/communicating the incident, the LED indicators on the pace monitor module 100 may flash red (or any other suitable colour) to indicate the detection of an unauthorised approach. An audible sound may also be used to indicate unauthorised trespassing.

Combining this with a schedule of playing times, any pace monitor module 100 or counter player 300 activations outside normal playing hours are a fairly positive indication of a trespasser.

(ii) Physical movement detection:

In addition to the external people movement detector the pace monitor module 100 and player counter 300 may include physical movement and vibration sensors (e.g. accelerometer). The sensors allow detection of possible misuse, vandalism or unauthorised removal of the units 100, 300.

(iii) GNSS (e.g. GPS) location unit:

For ease of installation and to remove the necessity for manual intervention, the function of a GNSS (e.g. GPS, GLONASS) within the pace monitor module 100 is to identify on which green the unit may be located on. The GNSS unit may also provide a very accurate time signal that may be used to synchronise all system components. It will also provide positional information as to where on the green the flag is located. This can be displayed on any computer device, such as, for example, a smart phone, a tablet or PC.

In addition to flag pole 102 location, in the event of unauthorised removal, the GNSS unit may configured to transmit the flag pole's 102 location in real-time, providing it remains within operation range of the system, i.e. within the effective range of the mesh network or a portable receiver.

Event communications

Whilst the system of the present invention is capable to detect and monitor any predetermined events, means have to be established to make the club staff aware of any one of these events. The system of the present invention provides a configurable communication path to match the working practices of the club administration and individual staff members to the types of events dependant also on the user predefined schedule, for example:

- A trespasser alarm outside playing hours may be texted to a club steward's mobile.

- A trespasser alarm during the playing hours may be texted to the course marshal.

- A member playing whilst his scheduled membership payment is outstanding may be notified via email by the club secretary.

- A current player without a badge or the correct authority to play at that time may be texted (SMS) by the course marshal.

(i) Notifications methods:

Notifications may be categorised and routed depending on the system configurations using three variables:

Classes of Notifications

The system generates numerous messages that are all communicated to the Cloud Application these including any player membership Issues, any player payment issues, slow play, equipment abuse, any security detection.

Local System Messages

Without the necessity of internet connections any device with Bluetooth capability, running the system event application (system specific Sentinel Golf Systems™ software application) and within range of any system component (e.g. pace monitor module 100) can be utilised to receive and display messages. The Internet gateway 400, when networked to the clubs' local network, may be used to transmit messages to any locally networked mobile device, providing it is running the systems event application (system specific Sentinel Golf Systems™ software application).

Remote/Wide Area Messages

With serviceable access to the internet, all the messages may be sent to any mobile device using established means such as SMS, messenger, email etc. 6. Additional features

Reflective outer Cover:

As described previously, the pace monitor module 100 has a plastic adhesive wrap 1 10 provided around the body 108 of the unit. The wrap 1 10 is highly light reflective. Furthermore, when mounted on the flag pole 102 in situ, the pace monitor module 100 may be utilised to significantly improve laser range measurements, by not only presenting a larger target, but also providing a highly reflective target, therefore, enabling quicker and more accurate measurements to be taken.

Vandalism and Abuse:

The internal vibration detector is configured detect any excessive force (e.g. potentially harmful to the module) when a player "drops" as opposed to "place" the flag pole 102 onto the green, an audible sound may be triggered to indicate this fact.

Any detected excessive force or shock applied to any one of the pace monitor modules 100 may trigger an audible sound alarm, in addition to communicating this event to the base station 500. Also, the LED indicator may provide a flashing light signal (with a suitable colour), to indicate an excessive force applied to the pace monitor module 100.

Battery Replacement:

Batteries in the pace monitor modules 100 and player counter 300 may be monitored, informing the base station (i.e. golf course administration or a staff member) when the power level drops below a predetermined threshold.

The pace monitor module 100 facilitates removal and replacement of the, for example, two AAAA batteries in situ, by simple loosening the three-longitudinal fastener 1 18.

The batteries provided in the player counter 300 may be secured by a key entry and four security fasteners. The players badges 200 may be configured to provide a battery life in access of about five years but may also be replaced. User Software Applications

The system applications (system specific Sentinel Golf Systems™ software application) may be installed and run on many devices, such as, for example, personal computers, android tablets and mobile smart phones, which can then interact directly with the system when on site and alternatively through an internet connection to the system's cloud database when remote from the site.

The software application suite may comprise software modules which are individually secured against the users' logon access credentials. Configurable by the club users only have access to view and or edit information reflective of their role and responsibility. The main software modules that form part of the application solutions are now briefly explained in the following sections.

Browser:

The browser enables the clear display of the configuration information and the data for all aspects of the system. For example, players badge information, pace monitor module 100 location (e.g. hole position), hole timing information (i.e. pace of play), position of players and/or group of players around the course.

Receipt and allocation of payments:

This software module manages all payments and changes to members' membership details, for example, when a change occurs in a member's payment (update), when a receipt is taken for a booking or society, when a competition entry is made, when a visitor pays at the club house or provides payment to a professional.

Hole profiling:

This software module enables the profile and timing of each of the holes on the course. The information may be required by the pace monitor module(s) 100 and/or the player counter(s) 300, so as to enable a timing measurement to be made and the correct indication (i.e. LED light indicator) to players of their state of pace of play (e.g. slow play with a red light). Any profiles may be set up and adjusted/selected based on weather conditions, format of a competition, the standard of players (e.g. societies, juniors, etc.). The hole profiles may be "tuned" (i.e. adjusted) as part of course management, so as to ensure adequate time limits and appropriate state of pace indications.

Course occupancy:

This software module is configured to receive and process real-time information from the system of the present invention, and then displays, for example, the speed of play for any or each group of players, any gaps within the current field, thus, enabling a player or group of players to join the field at other points than the designated start.

Message configuration:

This software module enables the system user to configure how all messages and events are communicated. It can be used to configure which category of messages goes to which type of person and how the message is sent.

Course statistics:

This software module may be used to generate a collection of reports, for example, displaying statistical information, such as, occupancy, playing speed, visitors and members use of the course per hole etc. The software module may be used by course management to determine data on the use/capacity of the course, allowing providing valuable marketing information. As the data is gathered over time, this software module can play an important part in identifying the holes on the course that may be responsible for 'bottlenecks' in play and, therefore, require attention.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the above embodiment(s) have been described by way of example only and not in any limitative sense, and that various alterations and modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS A DYNAMICALLY ADAPTIVE PACE OF PLAY MONITOR MODULE, SYSTEM AND METHOD THEREOF

1 . A pace monitor module for managing the pace of play on a golf course, comprising:

~ a first sensor assembly, adapted to detect at least one moving object at a predetermined range away from said pace monitor module and provide at least one first output signal;

~ a power source, adapted to provide power to said first sensor assembly, said second sensor assembly and said at least one transceiver; at least one signalling device, adapted to provide a predetermined information signal;

- compare said at least one first play time interval to a predetermined threshold, and - provide any one of a first information signal, when said at least one first time interval is greater than said predetermined threshold, a second information signal, when said at least one first time interval is less than said predetermined threshold, and at least a third information signal, when said at least one first time interval is within a predetermined range from said predetermined threshold.

2. A pace monitor module according to claim 1 , wherein said first sensor assembly comprises a motion sensor configured to detect motion within a predetermined field of view.

3. A pace monitor module according to claim 1 , wherein said motion sensor comprises at least one infrared sensor.

4. A pace monitor module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said second sensor assembly comprises at least one accelerometer and at least one gyroscope, adapted to determine motion in six axes.

5. A pace monitor module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said controller comprises at least one programmable microprocessor adapted to process input data received from any one of said first and second sensor assembly and said transceiver.

6. 6. A pace monitor module according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one Global Satellite Navigation System (GNSS) receiver, operably coupled to said controller and adapted to provide location data.

7. A pace monitor module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said transceiver comprises at least one RFID transceiver, adapted to trigger and receive identification data from a corresponding mobile RFID tag.

8. A pace monitor module according to claim 7, wherein said controller is further configured to control the power supply from said power source to said RFID transceiver, utilising said at least one first output signal.

9. A pace monitor module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said pace monitor module is adapted to form a communication network with at least one other of said pace monitor module and/or a remote base station.

10. A pace monitor module according to claim 9, wherein the topology of said communication network is a mesh network.

1 1 . A pace monitor module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said pace monitor module is adapted to be removably mounted to a flag pole.

12. A pace monitor module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said predetermined object is at least one player.

13. A pace monitor module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one signalling device is adapted to selectively generate light signals of any one of a plurality of colours.

14. A pace monitor module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said signalling device is adapted to selectively generate audible signals at any one of a plurality of frequencies.

15. A pace monitor module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said predetermined change of the position and/or orientation includes any one of a tilt angle, a distance from a first reference point, an acceleration, a speed and a position.

16. A pace monitor module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said controller is further adapted to assign a characterising identifier to said first time signal.

17. A pace monitor module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said controller is adapted to dynamically adapt said predetermined threshold and/or said predetermined range.

18. A pace monitor module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one transceiver is a RF module.

19. A pace of play monitoring system, comprising:

- at least one pace monitor according to any one of claims 1 to 18;

20. A pace of play monitoring system according to claim 19, wherein said communication network topology is a mesh network.

21 . A method for tracking and optimising the pace of play of at least one player, utilising a plurality of a pace monitor module according to any one of claims 1 to 18, including the steps of: a) detecting a predetermined motion of at least one player; b) activating a power supply from a power source to at least one predetermined component of at least one of said plurality of pace monitor modules; c) requesting, receiving and processing a characterising identification data of said at least one player and/or a prior time signal provided from a previous one of said plurality of pace monitor modules; d) detecting at least one predetermined change of the position and/or orientation of said at least one pace monitor module, and receive and record at least a first time signal; e) determine at least one first time interval, utilising said first time signal and said prior time signal; f) compare said at least one first time interval to a predetermined threshold; g) generate a characterising information signal corresponding to a predetermined deviation from said predetermined threshold.