Golf Tracker

Abstract

Described is, among other things, an identification tag capable of communicating with portable computing devices, which may, when used with associated software, may provide golfers real-time data collection, analysis, and visualization of data related to a game of golf or practice for a game of golf.

1 . A system, comprising:
 a first device, the first device associated with a golf club, comprising an identification tag;   a second device, the second device comprising:   a processor;   memory operably coupled to the processor;   a chip configured to receive communications from the first device;   software allowing visualization of a position of the golf club on a golf course; and   a position sensor.   
     
     
         2 . The system of  claim 1  wherein the software allows the visualization in real-time. 
     
     
         3 . The system of  claim 1  wherein the identification tag is attached to a golf club. 
     
     
         4 . The system of  claim 1  wherein the identification tag is integrated into a grip on a golf club. 
     
     
         5 . The system of  claim 1  wherein the identification tag is integrated into a golf club. 
     
     
         6 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the software operates on the second device. 
     
     
         7 . The system of  claim 1 , further comprising a third device, comprising:
 a processor; and   memory operably coupled to the processor;   
       wherein the position sensor is disposed on the second device, the second device communicates with the third device, and the software operates on the third device. 
     
     
         8 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the software provides a reduced power mode, restricts user inputs, and keeps radio communications active. 
     
     
         9 . The system of  claim 8  wherein the software enters the reduced power mode when a user presses a power button. 
     
     
         10 . The system of  claim 8  wherein the software enters the reduced power mode when a period of inactivity is detected. 
     
     
         11 . The system of  claim 8  wherein the software displays a hole number, a score, and a distance to the hole. 
     
     
         12 . A method, comprising:
 determining a first location of a first golf club on a golf course;   determining a second location of a second golf club on the golf course; and   calculating information about a golf shot based upon the first location and the second location; the information including a distance and a direction.   
     
     
         13 . The method of  claim 12  wherein the information further comprises an analysis of the golf shot including a comparison between a desired location and the second location.