MEASURING TOOL FOR ASSESSING GOLF BALL ALIGNMENT

Abstract

An alignment system is configured to measure the orientation of a golf ball relative to a target point based on the positioning of an alignment aid on the golf ball with respect to a target point. The alignment system has a camera configured to capture at least one image of a golf ball placed at a placement position on a surface. The alignment system also has a computing system having at least one processing unit and memory storing instructions configured to be executed by the at least one processing unit to determine an aimed direction based on an orientation of the alignment aid in the at least one image, calculate an alignment value based on the aimed direction, and provide the alignment value to a user interface.

Claims

1. An alignment system for measuring an orientation of a golf ball relative to a target point, the alignment system comprising: a camera configured to capture at least one image of a golf ball placed at a placement position on a surface, the golf ball comprising an alignment aid; and a computing system comprising at least one processing unit and memory storing instructions configured to be executed by the at least one processing unit to: determine an aimed direction based on an orientation of the alignment aid in the at least one image; calculate an alignment value based on the aimed direction; and provide the alignment value to a user interface.

2. The alignment system of claim 1, wherein calculating the alignment value comprises comparing the aimed direction to a target direction, wherein the target direction is a straight line connecting the placement position to the target point.

3. The alignment system of claim 2, wherein the at least one processing unit is further configured to determine the target direction based on one or more images captured by the camera.

4. The alignment system of claim 3, wherein the at least one processing unit is configured to determine the target direction and the aimed direction based on the same image.

5. The alignment system of claim 3, wherein the at least one processing unit is configured to determine the target direction based on one or more calibration images captured by the camera separate from the at least one image of the golf ball.

6. The alignment system of claim 5, wherein the one or more calibration images comprise a calibration line placed in a field of view of the camera.

7. The alignment system of claim 6, wherein the calibration line is a linear marking placed on the surface.

8. The alignment system of claim 7, wherein the linear marking is a rod, string, or tape.

9. A computer-implemented method for measuring an orientation of a golf ball relative to a target point, comprising: capturing, by a camera, at least one image of a golf ball placed at a placement position on a surface, the golf ball comprising an alignment aid; determining, by at least one processing unit, an aimed direction based on an orientation of the alignment aid in the at least one image; calculating, by the at least one processing unit, an alignment value based on the aimed direction; and providing the alignment value to a user interface.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein calculating the alignment value comprises comparing the aimed direction to a target direction, wherein the target direction is a straight line connecting the placement position to the target point.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the method further comprises capturing, by the camera, one or more calibration images having at least one calibration line in the one or more calibration images.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising determining the target direction based on the at least one calibration line in the one or more calibration images captured by the camera.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein at least one calibration image and at least one image of the golf ball placed at the placement position are the same image.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein at least one calibration image and at least one image of the golf ball placed at the placement position are different images.

15. The method of claim 10, wherein the alignment value is an offset angle between the aimed direction and the target direction.

16. The method of claim 9, wherein determining the aimed direction comprises determining a predominant axis of the alignment aid and finding a best fit line matching the predominant axis.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein determining the predominant axis comprises matching the alignment aid in the image to a stored alignment aid.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein finding the best fit line matching the predominant axis comprises identifying a contour within the at least one image based on intensity of pixels.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein identifying the contour comprises finding pixels having matching intensity and direction on the same line.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein determining the aimed direction comprises selecting two or more pixels having matching intensity on the same line.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] The foregoing and other aspects of the present invention are best understood from the following detailed description when read in connection with the accompanying drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there are shown in the drawings embodiments that are presently preferred, it being understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the specific instrumentalities disclosed. Included in the drawings are the following Figures:

[0007] FIGS. 1A-1F are examples of golf balls having alignment aids;

[0008] FIGS. 2A-2C is an alignment diagram that shows the relationship between an aimed direction and a target direction;

[0009] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an exemplary alignment measuring tool, consistent with disclosed embodiments;

[0010] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an exemplary computing system, consistent with disclosed embodiments;

[0011] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an exemplary support structure, consistent with disclosed embodiments;

[0012] FIG. 6 is a diagram of an alignment measurement according to a first embodiment;

[0013] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an exemplary process for assessing the position of an alignment aid based on the first embodiment;

[0014] FIG. 8 is a diagram of a calibration step in an alignment measurement according to a second embodiment;

[0015] FIG. 9 is a diagram of another step in an alignment measurement according to the second embodiment;

[0016] FIG. 10 is a flowchart of an exemplary process for assessing the position of an alignment aid relative to a target point based on the second embodiment;

[0017] FIG. 11 is a flowchart of an exemplary process for determining a target direction for a particular setup of placement position and target point, consistent with disclosed embodiments;

[0018] FIG. 12 is a flowchart of an exemplary process for determining an aimed direction, consistent with disclosed embodiments;

[0019] FIG. 13 is a diagram including a first embodiment of an alignment measuring tool;

[0020] FIG. 13A is a close-up view of a golf ball from the diagram of FIG. 13, consistent with disclosed embodiments;

[0021] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the alignment measuring tool according to the first embodiment;

[0022] FIG. 15 is the perspective view of the alignment measuring tool of FIG. 14 with a computing device placed in position;

[0023] FIG. 16 is a bottom perspective view of the alignment measuring tool of FIG. 14;

[0024] FIG. 17 is a diagram including a second embodiment of an alignment measuring tool;

[0025] FIG. 18 is another embodiment of an alignment measuring tool, including a calibration element; and

[0026] FIG. 19 is the alignment measuring tool of FIG. 18 further showing the features of the calibration element.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] In golf, especially in putting, the goal is to direct the golf ball from the place that it lies toward an intended target in order to make the ball in the hole in the fewest number of strokes. When on a putting green, a golfer can mark the position of the golf ball, pick up the golf ball, and place it back down in an orientation such that an alignment aid points toward the intended target. This practice allows the alignment aid to be used as a visual cue to help direct the golf ball as intended with the ensuing putt. For example, for a straight, flat putt, a golfer would ideally putt the ball from its position on the green toward a center of the hole. The golfer might place their golf ball in such a way that the alignment aid is pointing directly at the center of the hole. In other situations (e.g., for breaking putts), the golfer might choose a point on the green or in the distance as a target point. The disclosed embodiments include systems for measuring the degree to which a golf ball has been placed with the alignment aid aimed directly at a target point.

[0028] As used herein, alignment aid generally refers to a visual element that is on or integral with an object, such as a golf ball, wherein the visual element has an identifiable direction for being oriented toward a target point. In general, any indicia on a golf ball can be considered an alignment aid if the indicia defines a predominant axis for being aimed at a target point. Various examples of golf balls having different alignment aids are shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, IC, ID, 1E, and 1F.

[0029] Each alignment aid in FIGS. 1A-IF defines a predominant axis PA that is a straight line that passes through at least a portion of the corresponding golf ball in the top view. The predominant axis PA may be considered the line that is through a center plane of the top view of the golf ball and follows the pattern of the alignment aid. For example, the predominant axis PA may be a line that aligns with a longitudinal axis that divides the alignment aid into two symmetrical halves. In another example, the predominant axis PA may be a line that aligns with a direction of one or more arrows that are part of the alignment aid. In yet another example, the predominant axis might be a line upon which one or more sets of angled lines converge. According to disclosed embodiments, the predominant axis PA may be manually determined by a user and input to a computing system, or the computing system may automatically detect the predominant axis PA.

[0030] FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C depict a golf ball alignment diagram to illustrate the concept of orientation of a golf ball 10 having an alignment aid 20. FIG. 2A depicts a top view of a surface 30. The surface 30 is a generally flat surface, such as a flat portion of a putting green. The golf ball 10 is configured to be placed on the surface 30 with the alignment aid 20 facing upward so that a golfer can view the alignment aid 20 from above, such as during the setup for a golf swing. In at least some disclosed embodiments, it can be assumed that regarding the positioning and measurement of an alignment aid, the associated golf ball has been placed such that at least a portion of the alignment aid is visible in a top view and there is a determinable predominant axis PA associated the visible portion of the alignment aid.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 2A, the surface 30 includes a placement position 40, which is the position at which the golf ball 10 is to be placed. The surface 30 also includes a target point 50, which may be the center of a golf hole 60. In accordance with disclosed embodiments, a straight line path on the surface 30 from the placement position 40 to the target point 50 is referred to as the target direction. In some aspects, the target direction is the direction of a direct path from the placement position 40 to the target point 50, representing, for instance, perfect alignment.

[0032] FIG. 2B is the alignment diagram of FIG. 2A, with the golf ball 10 placed on the placement position 40 and the alignment aid 20 positioned such that the predominant axis PA associated with the alignment aid 20 can be associated with a particular direction. In accordance with disclosed embodiments, the particular direction associated with the predominant axis PA of an alignment aid is referred to as the aimed direction. In other words, the aimed direction may be the actual direction along which an alignment aid is pointing.

[0033] Ideally, a golfer would place their golf ball such that the aimed direction is the same as the target direction. This would represent perfect alignment of the golf ball to assist the golfer with directing the golf ball toward the target. However, as a golfer may not actually place the golf ball with the alignment aid perfectly aligned with the target direction, there may be an offset angle between the target direction and the aimed direction, as shown in FIG. 2C. Disclosed embodiments relate to measuring the offset angle in order to provide feedback to a golfer regarding placement of the golf ball. The alignment value (e.g., the offset angle) may represent the degree to which the alignment aid has been successfully aligned with the target direction. For example, if the offset angle is 0, the alignment aid has been perfectly placed in alignment with the target point. The larger the offset angle, the greater the error in alignment. The offset angle is one example of an alignment value that may be provided to a user as feedback regarding an assessment of the placement of a golf ball having an alignment aid.

[0034] There are several challenges associated with creating a device that can reliably determine an aimed direction and compare the aimed direction to a target direction. Initially when placing a golf ball for an alignment measurement, the golfer should be given enough space to simulate a real golf scenario. That is, an alignment measurement would be most representative of a golfer's actual alignment ability if there were no cues or lines present within the test space that would give the golfer an advantage when orienting the alignment aid. The present embodiments therefore contemplate a device that can be moved away from and/or is spaced from the placement position to thereby enable a golfer to place a golf ball as they typically would during a real golf scenario. Further, because it is not difficult to place an alignment aid such that it is aimed in the general direction of a target (even if perfect alignment is difficult), the measurement capabilities of the disclosed embodiments are such that tolerances and margins of error must be very small. These objectives are further complicated as the distance between a placement position and a target point increases (especially once the placement position and target point are out of a single field of view of a measuring device such as a camera). Disclosed embodiments include features to achieve the objectives of providing a simulated experience for the golfer to place the golf ball while maintaining repeatably high accuracy and very low margin of error.

[0035] FIG. 3 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an alignment measuring tool 100, consistent with disclosed embodiments. The alignment measuring tool 100 may be a device or combination of devices that perform a series of image capture and processing steps in order to determine the orientation of a golf ball's alignment aid with respect to a target position. The alignment measuring tool 100 may include features that determine a target direction for a particular placement position and target point, determine an aimed direction of an alignment aid on a golf ball placed at the placement position, compare the aimed direction with the target direction, and output an alignment value associated with the result of the comparison.

[0036] In order to produce a simulation of a real golf scenario, the alignment measuring tool should allow for placement of a golf ball without any visual cues other than the location of the target point. As a result, the golf ball should not be placed on the placement position while any calibration lines are visible within the area. This makes an option in which a target direction and aimed direction are determinable from a same captured image more difficult. While some embodiments of the present disclosure may include comparison of an aimed direction and a target direction from a single image, other embodiments allow the target direction to be stored, the aimed direction to be determined, and an alignment value to be determined based on a comparison of the two directions from different images. Another embodiment includes an alignment measuring tool that measures its own relationship to the target point and uses the result to calculate an alignment value. For instance, the target direction may be extrapolated from the orientation of a field of view of an image. For example, the direction of a vertical field of view may be defined as the target direction. The alignment measuring tool may include features that ensure that the vertical field of view of the camera is aligned with the target direction prior to an image being captured.

[0037] The alignment measuring tool 100 may include, for example, a computing system 110, a camera 120, a support structure 130, and a user interface 140. These features and/or other components of the alignment measuring tool 100 may act in combination to perform one or more disclosed methods for assessing golf ball alignment. The computing system 110 may include a processor and/or memory device configured to execute software instructions. The camera 120 may be configured to capture an image of an area within a field of view of the camera 120. The support structure 130 may be a physical device configured to be positioned relative to a golf ball in order to support the camera 120. The support structure 130 may include positional markers that allow the computing system 110 to determine a frame of reference to compare the target direction with the aimed direction. The user interface 140 may be a software and/or hardware component configured to enable the alignment measuring tool 100 to provide output that can be viewed by a user.

[0038] FIG. 4 is a further diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the computing system 110. The computing system 110 may include a hardware and/or software components configured to perform one or more disclosed methods in order to assess the placement of the alignment aid of a golf ball. For example, the computing system 110 may include one or more processing units 150, one or more memory devices 152, and at least one input/output (I/O) devices 154. The processing unit(s) 150 may be configured to execute software instructions stored in the memory 152 in order to perform a disclosed method or a step of a disclosed method. The memory 152 may further include storage and/or database components configured to store data for use in one or more disclosed processes. The I/O device(s) 154 may be integrated with and/or configured to communicate with the user interface 140 in order to output information to a user.

[0039] In an exemplary embodiment, the computing system 110 is a computer such as laptop or mobile device. In a particular embodiment, the computing system 110 is a tablet or phone. These devices include processing units, memory and other storage, and input/output devices such as touch screens, data ports, wireless connections (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.), and the like. In other embodiments, the computing system 110 may include multiple computing devices, such as a plurality of computers, one or more servers, multiple mobile devices, etc., connected via a wired or wireless network. Disclosed embodiments contemplate a computing system 110 that enables measurement of a golf ball's alignment in one location with the output of information via a user interface at another location.

[0040] An exemplary computing system 110 may include a plurality of modules that may be hardware and/or software-based components that enable the computing system 110 to complete one or more steps of a disclosed process. The disclosed modules are presented separately for case of explanation, but it should be understood that one or more of the modules may be combined into a single hardware or software feature, such as an application or program. For example, the computing system 110 may store an alignment measuring software application that is, for example, a Single Page Application (SPA) which captures and processes ball images which contain markings. The computing system 110 may include a component, such as a database and/or server, that stores images, analysis data, and user information that can be accessed via an application programming interface (API). The SPA may be programmed using coding languages known in the art such as Java, C, C++, C#, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the SPA may be programmed using Blazor web framework available from Microsoft. In an exemplary embodiment, the computing system 110 includes one or more of an imaging module 160, a calibration module 162, and an analysis module 164

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, the imaging module 160 may be configured to communicate with the camera 120 in order to receive image data (e.g., data associated with captured images). In some embodiments, the imaging module 160 may be configured to transmit image data to other components of the alignment measuring tool 100. For example, the imaging module 160 may provide image data to the user interface 140 in order to display a captured image to a user.

[0042] In some embodiments, the imaging module 160 may use image processing and/or recognition techniques to extract information from image data associated with one or more images. For example, the imaging module 160 may be configured to process image data to identify objects or markers within the image, such as a golf ball, alignment aid, or calibration line. In an exemplary embodiment, the imaging module 160 may be configured to perform a best-fit analysis to associate a line or direction with an alignment aid or calibration line found in image data. For example, the imaging module 160 may extract lines from image data by finding similar pixels that have the same characteristics and form a line or contour within the image. An example of a software application that may be used to perform image processing to extract lines from image data is the HALCON vision application available from MVTEC Software.

[0043] In an exemplary embodiment, the imaging module 160 is configured to use image data to determine one or more parameters, such as a target direction and aimed direction. The imaging module 160 may process calibration images to determine and store a target direction in the memory 152. Additionally, the imaging module 160 may process image data to determine an aimed direction of an alignment aid on a golf ball. For example, the imaging module 160 may process image data to identify an alignment aid, determine a predominant axis of the alignment aid, and determine an aimed direction of the alignment aid based on the predominant axis.

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, the imaging module 160 (or other component of the computing system 110) may perform image processing and extract lines from image(s) by detecting pixels within the image data whose intensity have the same line direction. For example, pixels that connect and have the same intensity and direction may exhibit the characteristic of having a local maxima (i.e., their second derivative is 0). All of the points found this way should fall on the same line (i.e., they have the same slope). The imaging module 160 may collect these points to form a contour. Next, the imaging module 160 may perform a linear regression on detected contours to produce a least-squares estimate of the line. For example, two or more points along the best fit line estimate may be identified as the target direction. These points may be used later to determine the angle between the target direction and the aimed direction. For example, the imaging module 160 may use the two farthest points on the best-fit line as a representation of the target direction (the line connecting these points follows the path on the target direction).

[0045] In another example, the imaging module 160 is configured to extract an alignment aid from image data to determine an aimed direction. For example, the imaging module 160 may use pattern matching to detect an alignment aide within image data. Next, the imaging module 160 may perform a linear regression on the contours of the alignment aid to produce a least-squares estimate of the predominant axis of the alignment aid (e.g., the line that intersects the center-line of the alignment aide). Two or more points along the best fit line may be stored as the aimed direction. For example, the imaging module 160 may use the two farthest points on the best-fit line as a representation of the aimed direction (the line connecting these points follows the path on the aimed direction).

[0046] In some embodiments, the imaging module 160 may receive image data associated with a single image that includes information to determine both a target direction and an aimed direction. The imaging module 160 may be configured to compare the target direction and the aimed direction in the image data and determine an alignment value, such as an offset angle between the two directions. For example, the imaging module 160 may perform image processing to determine an offset angle between the two directions found in the single image. In another example, the imaging module 160 may associate an orientation of the image with the target direction (e.g., the vertical field of view direction is the target direction). In an exemplary embodiment, the imaging module 160 is configured to use vector algebra to calculate the angle between the target direction (e.g., the saved points along the best fit line associated with the target direction) and the aimed direction (e.g., the saved points along the best fit line associated with the aimed direction).

[0047] In other embodiments, the imaging module 160 may extract a target direction and an aimed direction from different images. In these embodiments, the imaging module 160 may work with the calibration module 162 to maintain positional consistency across the images. For example, the imaging module 160 may first determine and store a target direction and await information about an aimed direction. The calibration module 162 may be configured to receive an aimed direction, recall the stored target direction, and compare the two directions to determine an alignment value, such as an offset angle. The imaging module 160 and/or calibration module 162 may determine an angle through which the aimed direction is rotated from the target direction to determine the alignment value. In an exemplary embodiment, the imaging module 160 is configured to use vector algebra to calculate the angle between the target direction (e.g., the saved points along the best fit line associated with the target direction) and the aimed direction (e.g., the saved points along the best fit line associated with the aimed direction). The calibration module 162 may use the camera field of view as a common reference and overlay the aimed direction onto the target direction. The imaging module 160 and/or the calibration module 162 may be configured to send information, such as alignment values, to the user interface 140 for display to a user.

[0048] The analysis module 164 may be configured to perform one or more additional processes to enhance the functionality of the alignment measuring tool 100. For example, the analysis module 164 may receive an alignment value related to the placement of a golf ball and determine the maximum length of putt that would be made if the ball were to be directed along the aimed direction. In another example, the analysis module 164 may be configured to compare results from multiple measurements in order to provide feedback regarding which alignments aids provide the best results. For example, the analysis module 164 may compare average alignment values across multiple tests to identify alignment aids that are more often or more closely aligned with the target direction. In particular, in some embodiments, the analysis module is configured to calculate the dispersion at various distances to the target point using the alignment value (e.g., the offset angle) to predict whether the putt will be successful.

[0049] The computing system 110 may be configured to perform other processes via the same or different modules than those described herein. For example, the computing system 110 may be configured to perform pattern matching to identify an alignment aid on a golf ball in at least one image and match the alignment aid to a known or stored alignment aid in a memory or database. The computing system 110 may associate a subsequent measurement with the stored alignment aid to enable the user interface 140 to display measurements associated with that particular alignment aid. Further, the computing system 110 may use stored information about alignment aids in determining the predominant axis of the alignment aid and/or for determining the aimed direction. For example, the stored information may identify how the predominant axis relates to the alignment aid.

[0050] In another example, the computing system 110 may be configured to perform one or more machine learning processes to augment and/or substitute one or more image processing and recognition processes. For example, the computing system 110 may be trained on images of alignment aids with a ground truth defining the predominant axis and/or aimed direction associated with a particular alignment aid. The computing system 110 may use the machine learning tools to help accurately determine aimed and/or target directions from images.

[0051] FIG. 5 is a diagram of an embodiment of the support structure 130. The support structure 130 may include components for enabling the camera 120 to capture images of a golf ball while not interfering with a golfer's ability to place the golf ball on a placement position under simulated golf conditions. For example, the support structure 130 may include components enabling the camera 120 to be easily moved from the space near the placement position. In other embodiments, the support structure 130 may be arranged to enable the camera 120 to capture images from a sufficient distance such as to not interfere with the placement position. Further, the support structure 130 may include features that provide positional context such that the target direction and aimed direction can be compared from different images. For instance, the support structure 130 may include positional markers to ensure that the field of view of the camera 120 does not change across different image captures, even if the support structure 130 and/or camera 120 was moved in the time between.

[0052] In an exemplary embodiment, the support structure 130 includes a camera link 170, a light control 172, and a power supply 174. The camera link 170 may be, for example, a support cradle for the camera 120 to direct the aperture of the camera 120 at a target area. In another example, the camera link 170 may be an opening for providing a view of a placement position to a camera 120 located separate from the support structure 130. The support structure 130 may include the light control 172 and/or power supply 174 to help enhance the quality of images captured by the camera 120. The light control 172 may be, for example, an enclosure for blocking out sunlight that could flood images captured by the camera 120. In some embodiments, the light control 172 may include a light source, such as a light bulb, flash, or LED. The light control 172 may be powered by the power supply 174 to sufficiently illuminate the field of view of the camera 120. In some embodiments, the power supply 174 may be a battery pack.

[0053] For embodiments in which the target direction and aimed direction are determined from different images, the alignment measuring tool 100 may require a frame of reference to be established across images. Accordingly, the support structure 130 may include a calibration element 176 that provides consistency to the placement of the support structure 130 and/or camera 120. For example, the calibration element 176 may include positional markers that maintain the location of the support structure even if it is removed and replaced. In another example, the calibration element 176 may include a feature that detects a position and/or orientation of the alignment measuring tool itself, in order to allow for adjustments based on position. In some embodiments, the support structure 130 may include components that enable the user to efficiently and easily place and replace the support structure 130, such as telescoping handles to easily pick up and replace the support structure 130.

[0054] A disclosed alignment measuring tool may be used in a process to assess the alignment of an alignment aid placed by a golfer on a placement position. In general, a setup for the measurement may include a flat portion of a putting green with a typical hole/cup in the green selected as the target point (i.e., the center of the hole being the target) and a placement position some distance from the hole (e.g., 5 ft, 10 ft, 15 ft, etc.). The intention of the measurement may be to assess how a golfer places a golf ball on the placement position such that the alignment aid is aimed directly at the target point. A placement position may be marked on the green and the golfer asked to place a golf ball with the alignment aid pointed toward the target point. The alignment measuring tool 100 may thereafter capture one or more images of the placed golf ball and determine an alignment value associated with the placement. The process may be repeated for multiple alignment aids and multiple placement positions in order to collect multiple data points to compare and analyze the golfer's ability to aim different alignment aids from various distances.

[0055] In determining a target direction for a particular measurement, the alignment measuring tool 100 may be configured to capture an image of a calibration line. The calibration line may be a visual object, marking, or other visual indicator that is placed in the field of view of the camera 120 in order to represent a direct path from the placement position to the target point for that measurement. For instance, a linear marking such as a rod, string, or tape may be placed on a line from the target point to the placement position. In a particular example, a string may be tied to a flag stick (which is placed at the center of the cup) and pulled to the placement position to represent the path therebetween in an image to be captured by the camera 120. In another example, a laser line may be used. For instance, a single laser line may be projected between the target point and the placement position. In another embodiment, one or more calibration lines (e.g., laser lines) may be positioned along a line or lines parallel to the line connecting the target point and placement position. In this way, the calibration line(s) can be spaced from a placed golf ball such that both the calibration line(s) and the alignment aid can be compared within the same field of view of the camera 120.

[0056] FIG. 6 is a diagram 200 of an exemplary alignment measurement according to a first embodiment of a measurement process. In the embodiment of FIG. 6, one or more calibration lines 202 and the alignment aid 204 of a golf ball 206 are both present in the field of view 208 of the camera 120 simultaneously. As used herein, the field of view of a camera (e.g., the field of view 208) may refer to the size of an image at the depth of the surface or object on the surface in the image. Field of view may include a vertical field of view and a horizontal field of view which define the area that is captured by the camera. In disclosed embodiments, a camera is pointed downward toward the ground surface resulting in both a vertical field of view and horizontal field of view measured in the plane of the ground surface. For example, for the field of view 208 in FIG. 6, the vertical field of view may be the dimension in direction of the calibration lines 202 and the horizontal field of view may be the perpendicular dimension. According to disclosed embodiments, a camera may be set up with a desired field of view that helps ensure high quality images of a golf ball and alignment aid.

[0057] In the example of FIG. 6, the two calibration lines 202 are positioned along two paths that are parallel to a path 210 that connects a placement position 212 to a target point 214. The calibration lines 202 may be captured in an image by the camera 120 and used to determine the target direction. The alignment aid 204 is positioned within the field of view 208 and may be captured in the same image by the camera 120 and used to determine the aimed direction.

[0058] In an exemplary embodiment, the calibration lines 202 may be selectively removed from the field of view 208 so that they are not present when the golfer places the golf ball 206. For instance, the calibration lines 202 may be produced by a pair of laser devices that can be turned off while the golfer is placing the golf ball and turned back on prior to the measurement. For instance, the calibration lines 202 may be a pair of laser devices that are symmetrically attached to opposing sides of a flag stick and used to project the calibration lines 202 back toward the placement position 212.

[0059] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a process 220 for performing an alignment measurement according to the first embodiment in which the calibration line(s) and alignment aid are present in the same image. The process 220 may be performed by one or more components of a disclosed alignment measuring tool 100. In some embodiments, the computing system 110 may perform one or more steps of the process 220 to determine alignment values associated with the placement of a golf ball by a user.

[0060] After the golf ball has been placed and one or more calibration lines are in position (e.g., as shown in the field of view 208 of FIG. 6), the alignment measuring tool 100 may capture an image of the golf ball and the calibration line(s) (Step 222). The computing system 110 may then identify a target direction based on the one or more calibration lines (Step 224). The computing system 110 may also determine an aimed direction based on the alignment aid found in the image (Step 226). For example, the alignment measuring tool 100 may perform image processing to find best fit lines that match the paths of the calibration line(s) and the alignment aid. An exemplary process for determining a target direction and aimed direction is further described with respect to FIGS. 11 and 12.

[0061] The computing system 110 may then perform a calculation to determine an alignment value associated with the placed golf ball (Step 228). For example, the computing system 110 may compare the aimed direction and the target direction to determine an offset angle between the two directions. The offset angle represents the degree to which the alignment aid is or is not aimed at the target point. For example, the computing system 110 may set the target direction to be at an angle of 0 and use geometry to determine the angle of the aimed direction in relation to the target direction. The computing system 110 may use negative and positive angle values to represent offset angles that are rotated in clockwise and counter-clockwise directions, respectively. For example, an offset angle of 0.3 may represent that the alignment aid is directed 0.3 off to the right of the target point. An offset angle of 0.3 would represent that the alignment aid is directed 0.3 off to the left of the target point.

[0062] The alignment measuring tool 100 may provide the calculated alignment value to the user interface 140 for display to a user (Step 229), thereby providing feedback to the user regarding the placement of the golf ball and alignment aid. In some embodiments, the computing system 110 may analyze calculated alignment values to provide additional information to the user. For example, the computing system 110 may associated alignment values with particular alignment aids and different distances from the target point and provide a suggestion to the user of the alignment aid pattern that was most accurately placed with respect to the target point. In another example, the computing system 110 may determine the further distance that a putt would be made based on the calculated offset angle.

[0063] In a second embodiment of a measuring process, the alignment measuring tool 100 may use a common frame of reference to compare information extracted from multiple captured images. In this embodiment, the alignment measuring tool 100 may store a target direction and separately determine an aimed direction to be compared to the target direction. FIGS. 8 and 9 include diagrams 230, 232 for performing an alignment measurement according to the second embodiment. In the diagram 230, a calibration line 234 is placed in the field of view 236 of the camera 120. The calibration line 234 may be, for example, a linear marking connecting the target point 238 to the placement position 240. The alignment measuring tool 100 may capture an image of the calibration line 234 to determine and store the target direction. In diagram 232, a golf ball 242 having an alignment aid 244 has been placed in the field of view 236 of the camera 120. The alignment measuring tool 100 may capture an image of the golf ball 242 and alignment aid 244 to determine the aimed direction and compare the aimed direction to the stored target direction. In this embodiment, the support structure 130 may include positional markers 246 configured to maintain a frame of reference for the camera 120 across captured images and enable an accurate comparison of the aimed direction and target direction across different images.

[0064] FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a process 250 for the alignment measuring tool 100 to perform an alignment measurement according to the second embodiment. The computing system 110 may perform one or more steps of the process 250. The process 250 may involve determining a target direction and an aimed direction from different images.

[0065] In an exemplary embodiment, the computing system 110 may determine a target direction for a given setup of a placement position and target point from a first image (e.g., a calibration image) (Step 252). The target direction represents a straight line from the placement position to the target point. A golfer may place a golf ball on the placement position with the intention of directing the alignment aid toward the target point (e.g., toward the center of the hole). When the golf ball has been placed, the camera 120 may capture an image of the placed golf ball (Step 254) The camera 120 may provide image data associated with the captured image to the computing system 110.

[0066] The computing system 110 may use the image data associated with the captured image to calculate an aimed direction of the alignment aid on the placed golf ball (Step 256). For example, the imaging module 160 may use a best fit analysis to determine the aimed direction. The computing system 110, having received the target direction and aimed direction, may thereafter determine an alignment value (Step 258). For example, the computing system 110 may compare the target direction to the aimed direction to determine an offset angle between the two directions. In some embodiments, the computing system 110 may perform a calibration correction to correct any differences between the orientation and/or field of view of the multiple images when determining the alignment value. After the alignment value has been determined, it may be provided to a user via the user interface 140 (Step 259).

[0067] FIG. 11 is a flowchart of an exemplary process 300 for determining a target direction associated with a setup of a placement position and a target point. The process 300 may be associated with step 224 of the process 220 and/or step 252 of the process 250 for determining and/or storing a target direction. A calibration line may be positioned in a field of view of the camera (Step 302). For example, a linear marking may be physically placed to connect a target point to a placement position. The linear marking represents the direct path to the target point. The linear marking may be, for example, a rod or tightened string, a laser line, a painted line, etc. The camera 120 and support structure 130 may be placed and configured such that the calibration line is in a field of view of the camera 120 (Step 304). FIGS. 6 and 8 show examples of linear markings placed within the field of view of a camera. The camera 120 may thereafter capture an image of the calibration line (Step 306).

[0068] The computing system 110 may receive image data associated with the calibration line and perform image processing to determine the target direction. For example, the computing system 110 (e.g., the imaging module 160) may perform image processing to find a best fit line within an image that matches the calibration line (Step 308). For example, the computing system 110 may detect pixels within the image data whose intensity have the same line direction, thereby matching the calibration line in the image. The computing system 110 may identify a contour within the image based on the matching-intensity pixels and select two or more points on the contour as a representation of the best fit line. For example, the computing system 110 may select two points on the contour that are a furthest distance from each other as end points of the calibration line in the image. In another embodiment, the computing system 110 may select at least three points on the contour (e.g., the two further points and a point in-between). A line connecting the selected points thus would match the calibration line. In this way, the two or more selected points represent a determination of the target direction.

[0069] The computing system 110 may store the identified best fit line as the target direction (Step 310). The computing system 110 may associate the stored target direction with a particular measurement, frame of reference, field of view, etc. in order to enable the stored target direction to be appropriately recalled and compared to an aimed direction. In some embodiments, the computing system 110 may use the target direction to compare to an aimed direction determined from the same image.

[0070] FIG. 12 is a flowchart of an exemplary process 320 for determining an aimed direction associated with an alignment aid on a golf ball in a captured image. The process 320 may be associated with step 226 of the process 220 and/or step 254 of the process 250 for determining an aimed direction. The computing system 110 may receive a captured image of a golf ball having an alignment aid (Step 322). The diagram 232 in FIG. 9 includes an example of a field of view 236 that may be captured of a golf ball 242 having an alignment aid 244. The computing system 110 may perform image processing to identify an alignment aid in the image data of the captured image (Step 324). In some embodiments, the computing system 110 performs pattern matching to identify a known object or pattern within image data (e.g., to find an alignment aid). In one example, the computing system 110 searches image data for a circular object within the image to thereby find a golf ball. The computing system 110 may then search within the boundaries of the circular object to find an alignment aid. In another example, the computing system 110 may search image data for a known alignment aid pattern. For example, the computing system 110 may include a database of saved alignment aids and search an image to find a grouping of pixels that match a saved alignment aid pattern.

[0071] The computing system 110 may determine a predominant axis associated with the alignment marking (Step 326). For example, the computing system 110 may perform a best fit analysis to identify a line that best matches the predominant axis of the alignment marking as it appears in the captured image.

[0072] The computing system 110 may determine a best fit line for the aimed direction based on an alignment aid in a manner similar to that described in relation to determining the target direction based on a calibration line. For example, the computing system 110 may detect pixels in the image within the boundary of the golf ball whose intensity have the same line direction, thereby matching the alignment aid in the image. The computing system 110 may identify a contour within the image based on the matching-intensity pixels and select two or more points on the contour as a representation of the best fit line. For example, the computing system 110 may select two points on the contour that are a furthest distance from each other as end points of the alignment aid in the image. In another embodiment, the computing system 110 may select at least three points on the contour (e.g., the two further points and a point in-between). A line connecting the selected points thus would match the direction of the alignment aid. In this way, the two or more selected points represent a determination of the aimed direction. The computing system 110 may store the aimed direction as the direction of the predominant axis within the field of view of the capture image (Step 328).

[0073] FIG. 13 includes a first embodiment of an alignment measuring tool 350. The alignment measuring tool 350 is depicted in a test environment including a surface 355 and a target point 360 at the center of a hole. The alignment measuring tool 350 is configured to assess the orientation of a golf ball 362 having an alignment aid 364 (also shown in FIG. 13A) that is placed on a placement position 366. A direct line from the placement position 366 to the target point 360 is the target direction. The alignment measuring tool 350 is configured to capture an image of the golf ball 362 and compare an orientation of the alignment aid 350 to the target direction.

[0074] The alignment measuring tool 350 includes a computing device 372, a support structure 374, and a camera 376 operably connected to the computing device 372. The computing device 372 may be a computing system as described in the present disclosure. The support structure 374 is configured to support the computing device 372 and the camera 376. The camera 376 is configured to capture images of a portion of the surface 355 within a field of view of the camera 376. For example, the camera 376 may be configured to capture images of a portion of the surface 355 directly beneath the camera 376.

[0075] The camera 376 may be configured to capture high quality images within the field of view. In an exemplary embodiment, the camera 376 may be a Basler ACA1600-20 gm. The camera 376 may be positioned relative to the support structure 374 and the surface 355 such that the vertical field of view of the camera is 2-4 inches. This size field of view helps ensure a large number of pixels per inch relative to the golf ball being imaged while allowing enough visible space to make it easy to find the golf ball in the camera's field of view when placing the alignment measuring tool 350 on the surface 355. The camera 376 may use a lens and mounting distance to provide the desired size field of view. For example, the camera 376 may use a 35 mm lens and be positioned to be 14 to 27 inches from the surface 355. In another embodiment, the camera 376 may have a 50 mm lens and be mounted 20 to 39 inches from the surface 355. In another embodiment, the camera 376 may have a 16 mm lens and be mounted 6.5 to 12 inches from the surface 355.

[0076] In other embodiments, the computing device 372 may include an integrated camera 376. For example, the computing device 372 may be a mobile device such as a tablet and/or mobile phone. In these embodiments, the integrated camera 376 may also provide a similar field of view (e.g., 2-4 inch vertical field of view) to ensure high quality image capture of the golf ball 362 and alignment aid 364.

[0077] The computing device 372 may be connected to a user interface. For example, the computing device 372 may include an integrated I/O device (e.g., a display, touchscreen, etc.) for presenting a user interface. In some embodiments, the computing device 372 is configured to connect to another computing device (e.g., a network connection to a mobile device) that has a user interface. In some embodiments, the computing device 372 may be removable from the support structure 374.

[0078] The support structure 374 may include a plurality of support walls 378 the create an enclosure for surrounding a portion of the surface 355. The alignment measuring tool 350 may further include a flash 380 configured to provide a light source within the enclosure of the support structure 374 when the camera 376 captures an image. The support structure 374 and the flash 380 thereby provide light control for images captured by the camera 376 to help ensure sufficient quality images for assessing orientation of an alignment aid.

[0079] In some embodiments, the alignment measuring tool 350 may further include a calibration feature configured to provide feedback on a position of the camera 376 relative to an area outside of the field of view of the camera 376. For example, the calibration feature may align the camera 376 relative to the target point 360. The calibration feature may provide feedback on the position of the camera 376 indirectly by providing information about the position of the support structure 374 or other component of the alignment measuring tool 350, relative to the target point 360.

[0080] In one example, the calibration feature comprises a laser line 381 projecting from the alignment measuring tool 350 toward the target point 360. The laser line 381 may be pointed toward an object at the target point 360, such as a flag stick. The laser line 381 can thus be used to control a position and orientation of the alignment measuring tool 350 relative to the target point 360 by providing feedback about how the camera 376 is positioned relative to the target point 360.

[0081] In another embodiment, the calibration feature includes a second camera that has a field of view outside of the support structure 374. For example, the second camera may be used to detect the target point. The calibration feature may further include a motor configured to rotate the first camera 376 to align it with the target point detected by the target point.

[0082] In some embodiments, the alignment measuring tool 350 may include positional markers 382. The positional markers 382 may include a first component 384 configured to be securely connected to the surface 355 and a second component 386 connected to the support structure 374. The first component 384 may be configured to embed flush with the surface 355 and includes a connector configured to mate with a corresponding connector of the second component 386. For example, the first component 384 and the second component 386 may include pin and socket, magnetic, snap, or any other type of connection configured to all the positional markers to repeatedly detach and reattach in the same location.

[0083] The positional markers 382 help to maintain a position and orientation of the camera 376 across multiple images even when the alignment measuring tool 350 is moved away from the placement position 366 in between images. In other words, the positional markers 382 allow the support structure 374 to be picked up off of the surface 355 and replaced in the same position and orientation. As such, the alignment measuring tool 350 may be calibrated to a particular location (e.g., target direction determined), the calibration lines may be removed, and a golfer allowed to place a golf ball with the alignment aid pointing toward a target point. The support structure 374 may thereafter be replaced on the positional markers 382 to ensure consistency of field of view across images captured by the camera 376.

[0084] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the support structure 374, according to an embodiment. The support walls 378 form a perimeter of the support structure 374 with an open top and bottom. The top of the support structure 374 includes a support cradle for receiving and positioning the computing device 372. For example, the top of the support structure 374 may include a perimeter ledge 388 for supporting the computing device 372. FIG. 15 depicts the computing device 372 (a tablet in this embodiment) seated in the support cradle on the perimeter ledge 388. The support structure 374 may be sized such to fit a tablet on the perimeter ledge 388 to thereby close the open top side of the support structure 374 and close off the interior from extraneous light. As shown in FIG. 14, the support structure 374 may include a second, smaller support ledge 390 for supporting a smaller computing device, such as a mobile phone.

[0085] The computing device 372 may be positioned on top of the support structure such that a user interface (e.g., a touch screen) 392 is facing outward toward a user, thereby enabling the user to interact with the computing device 372 while it is on the support structure 374. A rearward facing camera of the computing device 372 points toward the inside of the support structure 374 and thus is configured to capture an image of a surface enclosed by the support structure 374 and any objects (e.g., calibration lines, golf balls) placed on the surface in that area. The computing device 372 may be configured to output a preview image of the field of view of the camera on the user interface 392. In this way, a user can position the support structure 374 over a golf ball and view a preview of an image to be captured. The user can provide input to the computing device 372 to cause the camera to capture an image.

[0086] As shown in FIGS. 14-16, the support structure 374 may further include handles 394 connected to the support walls 378. The handles 394 enable a user to carefully and easily place and pick up the support structure 374 relative to a surface (e.g., a putting green) without interfering or affecting a golf ball placed on the surface. In some embodiments, the support structure 374 may alternatively or additionally include telescoping handles that enable a user to place and pick up the support structure 374 from a higher position (e.g., without bending down to the surface).

[0087] FIG. 16 is a bottom perspective view further depicting the open bottom side of the support structure 374 and an embodiment of the positional markers 382 attached to the support walls 378. For example, the positional markers 382 may be attached to the support walls 378 at two or more corners on the bottom side.

[0088] The alignment measuring tool 350 may be particularly well suited to help simulate a real golf experience when a golfer is placing a golf ball for an alignment assessment. The alignment measuring tool 350 can be initially placed over a calibration line and an image captured to determine a target direction. The alignment measuring tool 350 and the calibration line can then be removed from the space, allowing a golfer to step up and place a golf ball on the placement position with the goal of aligning the alignment aid with the target point. The alignment measuring tool 350 can then be replaced at the same position (e.g., via the positional markers 382) over the placed golf ball. The alignment measuring tool 350 can thereafter capture a high quality image of the placed golf ball due to the enclosure of the support structure 374 and the interior light control elements (e.g., flash). The process can be repeated for multiple alignment aids and various distances from the target point to collect robust data to characterize a user experience with aligning golf balls to a target.

[0089] FIG. 17 includes a second embodiment of an alignment measuring tool 400. The alignment measuring tool 400 is depicted in a test environment including a surface 405 and a target point 410 at the center of a hole. A golf ball 415 having an alignment aid is positioned at a placement position 420 on the surface 405 some distance from the target point 410. The alignment measuring tool 400 includes features that may utilize a more stationary device while still being configured to capture images of a golf ball on a placement position. The alignment measuring tool 400 includes a computing device 422 attached to a support structure 424 and a camera 426. The support structure 424 may be a tripod-like base that contacts the surface 405 in an area spaced from the placement position 420 such that the support structure 424 does not interfere with the area around the placement position 420. The support structure 424 may be sized to support the camera 426 sufficiently above the placement position 420 such that a golfer has space to place the golf ball 415 without hindrance. The support structure 424 may include adjustable support legs and leveling means to ensure that the camera 426 is correctly positioned and level.

[0090] The support structure 424 maintains the camera 426 in a single position so that the field of view of the camera 426 does not change across captured images. For example, the support structure 424 may be securely supported on and/or attached to the surface 405 to inhibit movement of the camera 426. In some embodiments, an enclosure 428 may be placed over the golf ball 415 to help control light exposure for the camera 426. An opening 432 in the enclosure 428 provides an aperture for the camera 426 to capture images. A flash or light source may be connected to the support structure 424, camera 426 and/or enclosure 428 to further enable the capture of high quality images by the camera 426.

[0091] In accordance with the disclosure, the alignment measuring tool 400 may be configured to capture images within the field of view of the camera 426, identify an alignment aid within the image(s), and compare an aimed direction of the alignment aid to a target direction. In some embodiments, the alignment measuring tool 400 may compare a target direction extracted from a first image to an aimed direction extracted from a second image, as has been described in the present disclosure. In other embodiments, the alignment measuring tool 400 may compare a target direction and aimed direction extracted from the same image, including situations in which the target direction is extrapolated from the orientation of the field of view. For example, FIG. 17 also depicts a calibration device 430. The calibration device 430 may be a device configured to produce at least one laser line 435. The laser line 435 may connect or be parallel a line connecting the target point 410 and the placement position 420. For example, the calibration device 430 may produce the calibration lines 202 shown in FIG. 6.

[0092] The calibration device 430 may be configured to be turned on to project the laser line 435 onto the surface 405 within the field of view of the camera 426. The alignment measuring tool 400 is configured to capture an image of a portion of the laser line 435 and use the image to determine a target direction for the measurement. In some embodiments, the calibration device 430 may be initially turned off, a golfer allowed to place the golf ball 415 on the placement position 420, and then the calibration device 430 turned on so that the laser line 435 and golf ball 415 are present simultaneously in the field of view of the camera 426. The camera 426 may thereafter capture an image of the golf ball 415 and the laser line 435 and perform image processing to determine an alignment value related to the alignment aid on the golf ball 415.

[0093] Disclosed embodiments include alignment measuring tools configured to capture images of a surface, such as a putting green, to determine an aimed direction of an alignment aid of a golf ball and calculate an alignment value associated with the aimed direction's relationship to a target direction. In some embodiments, the alignment measuring tool calculates a target direction as a reference to which the aimed direction may be compared. In some embodiments, the alignment measuring tool may include a calibration element configured to ensure that the alignment measuring tool is consistently in the same orientation.

[0094] In some embodiments, the alignment measuring tool may be positioned such that an aspect of a captured image may be reliably associated with the target direction. For example, the alignment measuring tool may include a calibration element that aligns the vertical field of view direction of the camera with the target direction. The alignment measuring tool may thereafter use the orientation of the image to compare an aimed direction to a target direction and determine an alignment value. In other embodiments, the alignment measuring tool may include a calibration element configured to determine an orientation and/or position in space to correct for any deviations or movements, such that the field of view of the camera does not need to be aligned with the target direction as long as the relationship between the two is known.

[0095] FIGS. 18 and 19 depict an example of an alignment measuring tool 450 having a calibration element 455. The alignment measuring tool 450 may be the same as or similar to the alignment measuring tool 350 such that it may picked up and removed from the surface around the placement position to allow a golfer to place a golf ball. In an exemplary embodiment, the calibration element 455 includes a device or devices configured to produce two parallel laser lines 460 projecting from the alignment measuring tool 450. The calibration element 455 may further include a surface 465 that is spaced from the alignment measuring tool 450. The surface 465 may be semi-circular and configured to reflect the laser lines 460 to a sensor. The sensor is configured to detect the reflection of the laser lines 460 to determine a length of each laser before it reaches the surface 465.

[0096] In an exemplary embodiment, the alignment measuring tool 450 is configured to use the laser lines 460 to determine an orientation of the alignment measuring tool 450 relative to the target direction. For example, in FIG. 18, the alignment measuring tool 450 is perfectly aligned with the target direction and the laser lines 460 are parallel to the target direction. As a result, the alignment measuring tool 450 can determine an aimed direction and an alignment value without correcting for a positioning/orientation of the alignment measuring tool. In FIG. 19, the alignment measuring tool 450 has been placed at an angled orientation, causing the laser lines 460 to skew away from being parallel with the target direction. The calibration element 455 may be configured to determine a deviation angle DA of the alignment measuring tool 450 using a known length of the laser lines 460 before colliding with the surface 465. For example, the deviation angle DA can be calculated using geometry (e.g., Pythagorean theorem) for a known distance D between the two laser lines 460 and a known difference E in the length of the laser lines 460. The alignment measuring tool 450 may be configured to use the deviation angle DA in calculating an alignment value based on an aimed direction. For example, the alignment measuring tool 450 may add a measured offset angle and the deviation angle to determine an actual offset angle between an aimed direction and a target direction.

[0097] While it is apparent that the illustrative embodiments of the invention disclosed herein fulfill the objectives stated above, it is appreciated that numerous modifications and other embodiments may be devised by those skilled in the art. Therefore, it will be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all modifications and embodiments which would come within the spirit and scope of the present invention.