ELECTRONIC GOLF TARGET GAME

Abstract

An electronic golf based target game in which one or more players use a golf club to hit golf balls towards one or more target zones located on a target. The target zones are assigned a corresponding score earned upon being struck by a golf ball from a respective player. The target is wirelessly in electronic communication with a mobile electronic device which displays a user interface. The target may be folded for ease of transportation and storage.

Description

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of recreational games, and more specifically provides certain golf based target game systems.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Many people enjoy playing golf as a game on a golf course. However, it often requires a significant investment of time and money to play on a dedicated golf course. Accordingly, there has developed a need and market for portable golf games that can be used for practice and/or recreation. Such games can be used, for example, in backyards, while tailgating, in basements, garages, game rooms, gyms, fairs, party facilities or otherwise and preferably can be stored within a relatively small area.

SUMMARY

In certain embodiments, an electronic golf game includes at least one golf ball and at least one golf club. A target base is made of a flexible sheet material with a surface divided into a plurality of target zones. An array of impact sensors are within the target base and configured to detect when a golf ball impacts a target zone. An electronics module/controller assembly is within the target base. The impact sensors communicate impact data regarding an impacted target zone to the electronics module. A wireless transceiver is operably connected to the electronics module and configured to wirelessly communicate with a remote device. The remote device has a computer software application stored thereon which receives the impact data from the wireless transceiver and is programmed to display the information on a user interface.

A method of using an electronic golf game target includes downloading a computer software application to a mobile device and spreading a target base made of a sheet material and having a surface divided into a plurality of target zones on a support surface. The method includes establishing a wireless communication link between the target base and the mobile device. Game play includes striking a golf ball aimed at the target with a golf club. The target system determined impact data including when and where the golf ball impacts the target and wirelessly communicating the impact data to the mobile device. The mobile device stores the impact data and displays scoring information based on the impact data via a user interface on the mobile device. The user can control game play via commands entered via the user interface. In some embodiments, the target base is folded for transportation and storage.

In an alternate embodiment, a method of using an electronic golf game target, includes downloading a computer software application to a mobile device, unfolding a circular target base having a surface divided into a plurality of target zones and placing the target base on a support surface. The method includes establishing a wireless communication link between the target base and the mobile device; and striking a golf ball aimed at the target with a golf club. The system detects impact data determining when and where the golf ball impacts the target; and wirelessly communicates the impact data to the mobile device. The impact data is stored and the mobile device displays player and scoring information based on the impact data.

In some embodiments, the target base is includes a circular central area and ring of target zones around the central area. In further embodiments, the target base includes a second ring of target zones concentric to the first ring.

Other objects and advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure will be apparent from the description, figures and claims.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a player using an electronic golf target game according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a target of the game as shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a view of a user interface on a mobile device used with the game as shown in FIG. 1.

FIGS. 4A-D are perspective views illustrating a method of folding the target of FIG. 2.

DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended, such alterations, modifications, and further applications of the principles of the disclosure being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure relates.

In certain embodiments, an electronic golf game includes at least one golf ball and at least one golf club. A target base is divided into a plurality of target zones. An array of impact sensors are within the target base. The impact sensors determine impact data when a golf ball impacts a target zone. The impact data is wirelessly communicate with a remote device. The remote device receives the impact data from the wireless transceiver and displays the information on a user interface.

Various embodiments include methods of using an electronic golf game target, including downloading a computer software application to a mobile device and unfolding or spreading a target base divided into a plurality of target zones on a support surface. A wireless communication link is established between the target base and the mobile device. Game play includes striking a golf ball aimed at the target with a golf club. The target determines impact data and wirelessly communicating the impact data to the mobile device. The mobile device stores the impact data and displays scoring information based on the impact data via a user interface on the mobile device.

The user can control game play via commands entered via the user interface. In some embodiments, the target base is folded for transportation and storage.

Illustrated in FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a player 10 playing an electronic golf target game according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Player 10 uses a golf club 14 to strike a projectile 18 such as a golf ball towards a target 50. Target 50 is spaced away from player 10 by a selected distance and spread over a support surface. Target 50 is wirelessly in electronic communication with a mobile electronic device 20. The game may include one or more targets 50. In one embodiment, two targets 50 are spaced apart to provide back and forth game play comparable to a game of horseshoes or cornhole. In another embodiment, two or more targets 50 are arranged at different distances and/or in different directions and a player 10 may aim a projectile toward any of the available targets.

The game may include one or more golf clubs 14 which may be the same or which may have different characteristics (woods, irons, different angled heads, etc.). The game also includes one or more projectiles, such as golf balls, which may be the same or which may have different characteristics. In some versions, the game may be provided as a kit which includes the golf clubs 14 and projectiles 18. In other versions, target 50 is provided and the players provide their own clubs and projectiles.

FIG. 2 illustrates a representative target 50. Target 50 includes a target base 52 divided into a plurality of target zones. In the illustrated embodiment, target base 52 is circular. An optional pole and flag 64 may extend upward in the center. As illustrated, target 50 includes a circular central target zone 54, four arcuate target zones 56 in a first ring around target zone 54, and four arcuate target zones 58 in a second ring concentrically around the first ring of target zones 56. Alternately, the first ring and the second ring can be each be made of a single target zone or a different number of target zones. In the illustrated embodiments, target zones 56 and 58 are formed as truncated pie-shaped wedges. In an alternate embodiment, target 50 may only include central target zone 54 and a first ring of target zones. In other embodiments, target 50 may incorporate multiple rings and/or target 50 can be formed in alternate shapes with target zones symmetrically or asymmetrically arranged as regular or irregular shapes and/or patterns. Examples with multiple target zones include a triangular arrangement comparable to a shuffleboard court or an elongated alternating arrangement comparable to a hopscotch court. In some embodiments, different target zone sizes correspond to different levels of difficulty and the resulting value of the target zone during game play. Typically the largest or closest target zone would have the lowest difficulty and accordingly it would be afforded the lowest score. Optionally, a target 50 may have indicia such as printed lines to delineate different target zones or score values.

Each target 50 incorporates software and hardware components that may be used to detect impacts and communicate with mobile device 20. In certain embodiments, target base 52 is made in a layered arrangement including an upper/outer target surface and an opposing lower or backing layer. An array of impact sensors and corresponding wiring is arranged and concealed in target base 52 between the target surface and the backing layer. The impact sensors are configured to detect when and where a projectile 18 impacts target 50. Certain embodiments use piezoelectric impact sensors. The impact sensors are operably connected to an electronics module/electronics module 60 within target base 52 with appropriate wiring. When an impact sensor detects a projectile impact, the sensor sends impact data to electronics module 60. Electronics module 60 may be concealed in target 50, for instance in the central target zone 54 or in an outer portion. Alternately, electronics module may be spaced from target base 52 and connected by a cable.

Electronics module 60 may include any suitable arrangement of hardware and control logic. For example, electronics module 60 may include a housing, a processor, a memory or data storage media, a power supply, and pressure sensor circuits operatively connected to impact sensors in target zones 54, 56 and 58. Electronics module 60 may include one or more external interfaces for charging the power supply, inputting programming, communicating data and the like. The processor may be a microprocessor or other suitable control circuitry configured to accept sensor input and to calculate and/or send control output signals. The power supply may be a sealed and portable power supply such as a battery. The battery may be a long-life battery, a replaceable battery or alternately may be rechargeable using wired or wireless external charging methods, such as wireless induction.

Electronics module 60 includes or is operably connected to a wireless transceiver to exchange information wirelessly with mobile device 20. For example, a communications link from the control assembly to a device 20 may be established via a wireless technology such as Bluetooth®, WiFi®, or the like. Electronics module 60 may include one or more buttons or other controls and/or connector plugs or sockets to input programming into the control assembly, for resetting or pairing the control assembly, a power button or switch, and for other control functions.

Mobile electronic device 20 includes a display screen and a suitable arrangement of hardware and programming. Examples of mobile electronic devices include tablets, smart phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), smart watches or laptop computers. The game includes a computer software application (e.g. an app) which can be installed on an owner's or player's mobile electronic device 20. The computer software application is programmed with game rules and control logic for one or more games or game variations using target 50. The app includes a user interface 30 which is displayed on the screen of the mobile electronic device 20.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, the user interface 30 includes a graphical representation 32 of targets 50 arranged to correspond to the arrangement of one or more targets 50 being used in the game. Graphical representation 32 includes a target graphic corresponding to the size and shape of target 50, for instance with central target zone 34 and target graphics 36 and 38 matching the configuration of target zones 54, 56 and 58. In alternate embodiments of target 50, target graphic 32 may be displayed in a different size, shape or arrangement to match the different configuration of target 50. User interface 30 further includes player or team indicia 41, 43 such as “Player 1” and “Player 2,” and corresponding player or team cumulative scores 42, 44. The game may be setup to be played by a single player or for one to four players to play individually or in teams. In alternate embodiments, the game could support play by more than four players or teams.

When a target zone on target 50 is impacted by a projectile 18, the impact sensors detect and report which target zone was impacted to control assembly 60 which then wirelessly communicates with mobile device 20. This causes a corresponding graphic zone displayed on user interface 30 to display a corresponding impact indicator and score value 39, e.g. 5 points for hitting a target zone 58, 10 points for hitting a target zone 56 or 50 points for hitting central target zone 54. In certain embodiments the score value can be adjusted using the app based on target distance, for instance if one target is farther away from the other. Alternately, score values can be based on the shape and arrangement of the target zones. The score value 39 is then added to the player's or team's cumulative score 42, 44 and the user interface 30 then indicates that play switches to the next player or team 41, 43. User interface 30 operates to display scoring, to track the active player or team and to track the rounds of play until a game is completed.

User interface 30 may include a touch screen or similar control inputs. The computer software application is programmed to control game play via commands input via the control inputs and/or to wirelessly communicate input from the controls as commands to the electronics module. For instance, within the software application a game reset button 48 and/or a “player” button 49 can be activated to switch play to the next team. The user interface may also include controls which communicate with the control assembly, such as a connect button 47 to establish a Bluetooth® pairing or a WiFi® connection, or a test mode button. Alternately, the wireless communication link may be established using a general settings interface for the mobile device outside of the computer app.

In one form, target base 52 is formed of flexible sheet materials, such as cloth, plastic, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), foam, or the like allowing the base to be spread out for use and then folded or rolled for easy transportation and storage after game play. In a further optional yet preferred aspect, target base 52 is constructed from waterproof or semi-waterproof and weather resistant materials. In alternate less preferred forms, target base 52 is made of semi-rigid or rigid sheet portions made of wood, plastic, lightweight metal or another suitable material, and may include hinges such as mechanical hinges or living hinges/flexible hinge portions between the portions to allow target 50 to be folded for transportation and storage.

Optionally, during the folding process, the circular central target zone 54 may be partially disconnected and folded over a portion of the ring shaped remainder. A flexible connector may connect the circular central target zone 54 to the remainder of target base 52, forming a hinge. Cabling may extend though the hinge to connect an electronics module 60 located in the central target zone to impact sensors in the ring shaped portion or to connect an electronics module 60 outside of the central target zone to sensors in the central target zone. During play, central target zone 54 may be held in place with separable fasteners, such as hook and loop fasteners, snaps, zippers, buttons or the like.

FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate a representative method of folding target 50. Starting with a playing configuration spread over a support surface as shown in FIG. 2, as shown in FIG. 4A the optional pole and flag 64 are removed from the middle and laid horizontally on a portion of the target base, preferably with the pole along a radial axis. The circular central target zone 54 is then partially unfastened, raised and folded to one side, leaving a ring shaped remainder. In certain embodiments the circular central target zone 54 is folded over the same portion where the pole and flag 64 are placed. Next, the target base 52 is folded over itself into overlapping halves (FIG. 4B) and then folded over itself again into overlapping quarters (FIG. 4C). Optionally, target 50 may have indicia such as printed lines or living hinges (areas of reduced thickness) to indicate fold axes and to facilitate folding. The folded target base 52 can then be rolled into a cone, as shown in FIG. 4D, and optionally secured in the rolled configuration with a strap 68. Alternately, target 50 can be rolled into a tube. The illustrated folding method is representative and other methods can be used as desired. The specific folding method will also vary accordingly to different embodiments of target 50. Optionally, a case may be provided to transport and store the target(s), clubs and/or projectiles.

In certain embodiments, the ring shaped portion forms a continuous circle and the portions are not separable. In certain less desired embodiments, the ring shaped portion may be formed of a series of portions which are separable and selectively linked at joints with separable fasteners. If separable, the joints between the portions will include cabling or connectors to establish electronic circuits between the portions and the electronics module.

As representatively illustrated in FIG. 1, when playing a game using a system herein, a first player 10 stands a selected distance in front of a target 50. Player 10 attempts to hit a projectile 18 using a golf club 14 to strike the target 50. If the target is hit, the target zone and score are registered and displayed on user interface 30 and score 42 for first player 10 is updated. Play then passes to the next player and the process is repeated. Thereafter, the players or teams take turns hitting projectiles toward the target for designated number of rounds of game play. Typically, the player or team who scores the most points is the winner.

In alternate embodiments, each player may be allowed multiple attempts before play passes to another player, the players may be given different difficulty levels such as different distances from the target, the players may use unequal or different equipment, or other aspects may be varied to add more excitement and entertainment to the game.

The components of the system can be manufactured and assembled from standard materials, such as fabric, rubber, wood, plastic or metal based materials as examples. The target zones preferably do not permanently deform or indent when projectiles strike the target surface. The projectiles used may be standard or regulation golf balls, or may be made of softer materials and/or reduced in size as appropriate for the desired players' ages and the desired game environment. Preferably, the game embodiments are portable to enable the device to be positioned at various locations. In certain embodiments, the system may be manufactured in a modular, lightweight form to enhance the ease of transport, assembly and disassembly.

While the disclosure has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the disclosure are desired to be protected.

Claims

1. A method of using an electronic golf game target, comprising: downloading a computer software application to a mobile device;spreading a target base made of a sheet material and having a surface divided into a plurality of target zones on a support surface;establishing a wireless communication link between the target base and the mobile device;striking a golf ball aimed at the target with a golf club;detecting impact data determining when and where the golf ball impacts the target;wirelessly communicating the impact data to the mobile device;storing the impact data in the mobile device and displaying scoring information based on the impact data via a user interface on the mobile device; andcontrolling game play via commands entered via the user interface.

2. The method of claim 1, comprising folding the target base for transportation and storage.

3. The method of claim 2, comprising folding a central target zone over a portion of the target base prior to folding the target base.

4. The method of claim 3, comprising folding the target base into overlapping halves and then folding the target base into overlapping quarters.

5. The method of claim 4, comprising rolling the folded target base into a cone.

6. The method of claim 1, comprising rolling the target base into a tube for transportation and storage.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the target base is made of a flexible sheet material.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the target base is made of rigid sheet portions with hinges arranged between the portions to allow the sheet portions to folded over each other.

9. A method of using an electronic golf game target, comprising: downloading a computer software application to a mobile device;unfolding a circular target base having a surface divided into a plurality of target zones and placing the target base on a support surface;establishing a wireless communication link between the target base and the mobile device;striking a golf ball aimed at the target with a golf club;detecting impact data determining when and where the golf ball impacts the target;wirelessly communicating the impact data to the mobile device; andstoring the impact data in the mobile device and displaying player and scoring information based on the impact data on the mobile device.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the target base has a plurality of impact sensors arranged in the target base to detect when a golf ball impacts a target zone.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the impact sensors are piezoelectric impact sensors.

12. The method of claim 9, comprising folding the target base for transportation and storage.

13. The method of claim 12, comprising folding a central target zone over a portion of the target base prior to folding the target base.

14. The method of claim 9, wherein the target base defines a circular central target zone and four arcuate target zones define a first ring around the central target zone.

15. A method of using an electronic golf game target, comprising: downloading a computer software application to a mobile device;spreading a circular target base made of a sheet material defining a circular central target zone and four arcuate target zones defining a first ring around the central target zone on a support surface;establishing a wireless communication link between the target base and the mobile device;striking a golf ball aimed at the target with a golf club;detecting impact data determining when and where the golf ball impacts the target;wirelessly communicating the impact data to the mobile device;storing the impact data in the mobile device and displaying scoring information based on the impact data via on a user interface on the mobile device; andcontrolling game play via commands entered via the user interface.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the target base defines four target zones defining a second ring concentrically around the first ring.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the target base defines a plurality of target zones arranged around the first ring.

18. The method of claim 15, comprising folding the central target zone over a portion of the target base.

19. The method of claim 18, comprising folding the target base for transportation and storage.

20. The method of claim 19, comprising rolling the folded target base into a cone.