WO1994004982A1

WO1994004982A1 - An electronic golf performance aid device and method thereof

Info

Publication number: WO1994004982A1
Application number: PCT/US1993/007713
Authority: WO
Inventors: Richard W. Carroll; William W. Sproul
Original assignee: Carroll Richard W
Priority date: 1992-08-19
Filing date: 1993-08-19
Publication date: 1994-03-03
Also published as: AU5015993A

Abstract

An electronic golfer's device (1) provides a graphical display (2) of the current hole situation. Through cursor movement (4, 5), the golfer enters both ball location relative to fairway landmarks and the pin position on the green. The electronic device (1) then calculates the exact distance to the pin. The electronic device (1) records the golfer's play and, in conjunction with a personal computer, provides a detailed statistical analysis of many aspects of the golfer's play. The present invention also allows a preview of courses before actual play. By allowing the position of the pin to be located through cursor movement (4, 5), the electronic device (1) provides an exact distance to the pin as it is placed at any certain time. Moreover, this electronic device utilizes the history of the individual golfer's performance with each golf club to determine the suggested golf club for the next shot in conjunction with the actual distance between the ball and the location of the pin.

Description

TITLE OF THE PRESENT INVENTION AN ELECTRONIC GOLF PERFORMANCE AID DEVICE AND METHOD THEREOF

Field of the Present Invention The present invention is directed to a portable electronic device designed for improving an individual's performance with respect to playing golf by providing visual support for course strategy, club selection, shot approach, and analysis of an individual's playing characteristics. The present invention is also directed to a small electronic device which provides a detailed analysis of an individual's playing characteristics through the generation of individual long term golf records and statistics. Background of the Present Invention

Conventional devices for assisting the individual in the playing of the game of golf have assisted the individual in very limited aspects of the game. For example, conventional devices have either assisted the golfer in keeping score, calculating the distance to the pin from the location of the ball, or even suggesting a possible club to hit the next shot with. Although, these various devices may have assisted the golfer in playing the game, these devices do not provide enough adequate information to the golfer to actually improve the individual's game performance. For example, as disclosed in United States Patent No. 4,142,236 (Martz et al... Martz et al. discloses an electronic scorecard for golf. This electronic scorecard has two modes of operation, a program mode and a play mode. In the program, the electronic scorecard is programmed with yardage and par values for each hole of the golf course. Once play has begun, the scorecard is changed to the play mode wherein the golfer inputs stroke values for each hole of the golf course individually for each player. After these values have been inputted, the electronic scorecard enables the player to selectively display accumulated par and stroke values for each individual golfer or preselected holes. Although Martz et al. discloses an electronic device which functions as a golf scorecard, this device does not adequately provide enough information to the golfer so that the golfer can substantially improve the golfer's game. The device merely provides the golfer with the yardage of each hole being played and keeps a running total or individual scores for the previously played holes. Thus, the device disclosed in Martz et al. cannot adequately aid the golfer in improving performance.

Another conventional device which has been developed to aid the golfer in playing the game of golf is disclosed in United States Patent No. 4,136,394 (Jones et al.) ♦ Jones et al. discloses a golf yardage indicator system wherein the golf distance indicator provides a measurement of the distance between the golfer and the green upon which the golfer is approaching. The system utilizes a base unit mounted near the pin of the green and a remote unit carried by the golfer. Through radio transmissions between the remote unit and the base unit, the remote unit is able to determine the exact distance between the golfer and the pin location on the green. This remote unit is also capable of determining wind conditions where this determination is utilized to correct the actual distance between the golfer and the pin.

Moreover, Jones et al. discloses that the golf yardage indicator automatically selects the proper club for the golfer's next shot wherein the selection is based upon a standard performance for each individual golf club. In other words, the indicator may choose a five-iron every time the distance is approximately 150 yards, notwithstanding the actual individual characteristics of the individual playing golf.

For example, if the individual playing golf normally hits a five-iron 170 yards, the yardage indicator of Jones et al. would fail to recognize this characteristic of the individual golfer and thus suggest the wrong club to the golfer which in turn will detrimentally effect the individual's performance.

Another device which has been developed to aid the individual in playing the game of golf is disclosed in United States Patent No. 4,910,677 fRemedio et al.) . Remedio et al. discloses a computer attached to a golf cart which graphically displays a layout of the hole being played by the golfer. Remedio et al. further discloses that utilization of the cursor allows the golfer to input the ball's location on the graphic display such that the computer can accurately calculate the distance between the ball and the pin. This device also informs the individual of the actual distance from the ball to the pin but relies upon the individual to make the actual selection of the next selected club based on the memory of the individual. Remedio et al. also discloses the utilization of a graphical display to inform the individual of the various features, obstacles, and hazards on the golf course. This further information can be utilized by the individual in determining the actual club selection.

A disadvantage in utilizing this device is that the device requires the utilization of a golf cart when playing golf. Thus, this golfer's aid device is very limited in its utilization because a majority of golfers do not use a cart when playing. Moreover, this device requires the golfer to remember the golfer's own characteristics for each club. This can be a difficult task for a person only playing occasional golf.

Another device which aids the golfer in playing is disclosed in United States Patent No. 4,815,020 (Kromer) . Kro er discloses an apparatus for determining various parameters of the game of golf. More specifically, this device determines the remaining distance to the green and selection of the appropriate golf club for use by the golfer. Kromer discloses that this device stores the distance achieved in the past with the selected club to yield a statistical value useful in selecting clubs. By measuring directly the distance achieved by previously used clubs such that performance information is continually-—updated, the device of Kromer provides a current performance evaluation upon which club selection can be based.

However, the distance which the golf ball was advanced on the previous stroke is measured by the utilization of sensor devices connected to the wheels of a golf cart or a pull cart. Kromer further discloses that the angle that the ball has travelled must also be inputted to determine the distance information.

Although Kromer provides various forms of information to the individual playing golf, this device has many drawbacks in not providing accurate information such that the individual can substantially improve play performance. More specifically, the device does not graphically display individual golf holes so that the golfer is aware of the various obstacles, features, or hazards along the golf course. Moreover, the system utilized by Kromer to input the distance of the ball has a disadvantage. Kromer discloses that the location of the ball or the distance that the ball travelled is determined by sensors connected to the wheel of a pull cart or golf cart. Thus, Kromer determines the distance of the ball according to the distance travelled by the golf cart or pull cart. The utilization of such a system has problems in accurately determining the distance travelled by the ball.

A common characteristic of the game of golf is a temporarily lost ball in the rough along the fairway. It is very common for golfers to travel up and down an area of rough to locate a ball which is nestled deeply in the rough. Thus, utilizing the device disclosed by Kromer to calculate the distance of the flight of ball, the distance between the position of the ball and the pin on the green based upon the distance travelled by the pull cart or golf cart can be easily miscalculated when a golfer is searching for a temporarily lost ball along the rough. Thus, the device of Kromer can easily convey incorrect distance information to the individual golfer.

Summary and Objects of the Present Invention An object of the present invention is to provide a portable electronic device designed to improve the performance of an individual playing the game of golf by providing support for course playing strategy, club selection, shot approach, and analysis of the individuals playing characteristics.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a device which displays a visual picture of each hole from tee to green including any feature; such as tee areas, fairways, greens, rough, sandtraps, bunkers, water, hazards, out of bounds, cart paths, trees, plants, markers, and other pertinent features.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a graphic display of each golf hole which allows the individual to enlarge an area of interest, particularly around the green, as the individual approaches the green area.

Still another object of the present invention is to display distances from the pin in desired increments or other selectable increments wherein these distances are superimposed upon the situational display of the hole in the form of yardage arcs from the pin.

Still another object of the present invention is to enable the individual to display distances between the ball, tee, pin, and any other arbitrarily selected location along the displayed golf hole.

A further object of the present invention is to display terrain contour features by superimposing contour lines of constant elevation on the display of the hole being played.

Still another object of the present invention is display a projected image of an area of probability where a shot with a selected club will land.

Another object of the present invention is to provide scorekeeping capabilities for either individual scoring or group scoring.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a scorekeeping characteristic which can incorporate handicap, team arrangements, or other formats being utilized by the golfer; i.e., a "Skins" format, a "Wolf" format, "Scramble", "Best Ball", etc.

Still another object of the present invention is to complete a full stroke history of an individual golfer for performance analysis and aid in future practicing and club selection.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide the capability of golf performance analysis for an individual utilizing the maintained golf stroke history. Still another object of the present invention is to enable the golfer to play, electronically, a selected golf course using the actual individual characteristics of the golfer which are maintained in the complete golf stroke history.

One embodiment of the present invention which realizes these objects is an electronic device which includes a data input terminal to input data associated with characteristics of a selected golf course and data relating to a history of club performance for an individual golfer; a memory for storing the data; a cursor controller for manually inputting a location of a golfball with respect to a hole being played; a keyboard for inputting data relating to a selected club and function commands; and a processor for calculating a distance the golfball has travelled and a distance from the manually inputted location to the location of the pin on the green in response to the cursor controller and keyboard.

The memory stores the distance the golfball has travelled in a storage area. The processor, based on the performance history and distance to the pin, determines an optimal club to be utilized to transverse the distance from the location of the golfball to the pin on the green. The device also includes a display screen which displays the optimal club determined by the processor. The electronic device graphically displays the layout of the hole being played. The electronic device of the present invention can also enlarge the graphical display of a selected area of the hole being played. The electronic device inputs the location of the ball by moving a cursor displayed on the display screen to a location corresponding to the actual location of the ball with respect to the hole being played. The electronic device can also input the location of the pin on the green by moving a cursor displayed on the display screen to a location corresponding to an exact location of the pin with respect to the hole being played. The electronic device of the present invention displays contour lines representing constant elevation with respect to the elevation of the pin. The electronic device also displays contour lines representing elevation with the elevation of the ball being assigned a zero elevation. The electronic device further displays yardage arcs representing defined intervals of distance from the pin, or the electronic device displays yardage arcs representing defined intervals of distance from the location of the golfball.

The electronic device of the present invention may display an individual play record with club usage, in chronological order, for each hole played. The electronic device also displays a target area corresponding to a selected probability and the optimal club determined by the processor. This targetT area may be concentric ellipsoids, each ellipsoid being shaded differently to represent distinct selected probabilities. Lastly, the electronic device can graphically display tee areas, fairways, greens, rough, sandtraps, bunkers, water, hazards, temporary hazards, out of bounds, cart paths, trees, plants, markers, and other features.

Another embodiment of the present invention which realizes the objects mentioned above is a method for electronically aiding an individual playing golf. This method includes the steps of: (a) inputting data associated with characteristics of a selected golf course; (b) inputting data relating to club selection; (c) storing the data; (d) manually inputting the location of the golfball with respect to a hole being played; (e) calculating a distance the golfball has travelled and the distance from the manually inputted location to the location of the pin on the green; (f) storing the distance the golfball has travelled in a storage area; (g) determining, based upon the data stored in the storage area, an optimal club to be utilized to transverse the distance from the location of the golfball to the pin on the green; and (h) displaying the optimal club determined in the step (g) .

The method can prestore in the storage area distances and associated club data generated during previous play. The method also graphically displays the layout of the hole being played. The method further may enlarge the graphical display of a selected area of the hole being played. The method of this embodiment of the present invention inputs the location of the ball by moving a displayed cursor to a location on a display screen corresponding to the actual location of the ball with respect to the hole being played and can input a location of the pin of the green by moving a cursor displayed on a display screen to a location corresponding to an exact location of the pin with respect to the hole being played.

The method of this embodiment of the present invention displays contour lines representing constant elevation with respect to the elevation of the pin or can display contour lines representing constant elevation with respect to the elevation of the ball. The method may display yardage arcs representing defined intervals of distance from the pin or displaying yardage arcs representing defined intervals of distance from the location of the golfball.

The method of this embodiment of the present invention displays an individual play record with club usage, in chronological order, for each hole played. The method further displays a target area corresponding to a selected probability and the optimal club determined by step (g) . This target area may be concentric ellipsoids, each ellipsoid being shaded differently to represent distinct selected probabilities. The method can also graphically displays tee areas, fairways, greens, rough, sandtraps, bunkers, water, hazards, temporary hazards, out of bounds, cart paths, trees, plants, and markers.

A third embodiment of the present invention is electronic device including a first data input terminal for inputting first data associated with a layout of a selected golf course; a keyboard for inputting second data relating to club selection, a desired probability, and a probability function command; second data input terminal for inputting third data, the third data being distance and associated club data generated during previous play; a memory for storing the first data and the third data; a central processor unit for determining, based upon the data stored in the memory, a target for a selected club in accordance with the desired probability, the target representing a projected distance from a present location of the golfball to where the golfball should be located for the given club selection and probability; and a display screen, for displaying a target corresponding to the determination of the central processor unit. The target may be concentric ellipsoids, each ellipsoid being shaded differently to represent distinct selected probabilities, or the target may be an arc representing a probable distance the golfball will transverse if the selected club is used on a next shot.

A fourth embodiment of the present invention is a method for electronically aiding an individual playing golf. This method includes the step of: (a) inputting first data associated with a layout of a selected golf course; (b) inputting second data relating to club selection, a desired probability, and a probability function command; (c) inputting third data, the third data being distance and associated club data generated during previous play; (d) storing the first data and the third data; (e) determining, based upon the stored data, a target for a selected club in accordance with the desired probability, the target representing a projected distance from a present location of the golfball to where the golfball should be located for the given club selection and probability; and (f) displaying a target corresponding to the determination of step (e) . The target may be concentric ellipsoids, each ellipsoid being shaded differently to represent distinct selected probabilities, or the target may be an arc representing a probable distance the golfball will transverse if the selected club is used on a next shot. Brief Description of the Drawing

Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the detailed description of the preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein: Figure 1 illustrates an overall view of one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram of the components of the present invention;

Figure 3 illustrates a flow chart of the various functions carried out by a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 4(A) illustrates the present invention displaying the scores for a group of players;

Figure 4(B) illustrates the displaying of a scorecard for an individual player with individual stroke and club usage;

Figure 5 illustrates and example of the options available for the present invention;

Figure 6 illustrates one type of displaying of yardage arcs for a graphical hole layout of the present invention;

Figure 7 illustrates one type of displaying of the shot probability target for a graphical hole layout of the present invention; and Figure 8 illustrates the displaying of contour lines for a graphical hole layout of the present invention. Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments In the drawings, like reference numerals designate like parts throughout the drawings.

Figure 1 illustrates an overall view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention. In Figure l, an electronic device 1 includes a display device or screen 2 which graphically displays the hole layout for a selected hole on a golf course. The electronic device 1 also includes an ON/OFF switch 8 and a data interface terminal 7.

Information is input into the electronic device 1 in various ways. Information regarding the golf stroke history of the individual player or the graphical information relating to the specific golf course being played can be inputted via the memory card slot 6 illustrated in Figure 1 wherein the information is stored on portable memory cards. On the other hand, this information with respect to the course layout of the specific golf course being played or golf stroke history can be inputted through an input/output interface terminal 7 which allows a host computer to down load information into the electronic device and subsequently unload information from the electronic device. This information also can be loaded via any combination of the above terminals. Information regarding club selection, hole selection, and other golf parameters can be inputted through a keyboard 3. Lastly, the cursor 5 displayed on the display device 3 can be moved in various directions in response to a cursor controller 4.

Figure 2 illustrates the block diagram of possible internal components for the electronic device which function in conjunction with each other to perform the various functions of the present invention. As illustrated in Figure 2, the electronic device 1 includes a central processor unit 10 which controls the graphical display on the display device 2 as well as the other functions of the electronic device 1. The electronic device 1 is powered by a power source which may be rechargeable batteries, batteries, or be supplied through a direct connection at a power terminal. Information is input to the central processor device 10 through an input/output (I/O) interface 12. The input/output interface receives information from the computer input terminal 7. The input/output device 12 controls the inputting of information to the central processor unit 10. A memory card 6 may also be used to input data. The central processor unit also receives information from the keyboard 3 which provides command signals to the central processor unit from the individual golfer. Lastly, the electronic device 1 includes a memory 11 which stores all data required by the electronic device including the graphical layout of the specific golf course being played and the club performance history of the individual player utilizing electronic device 1.

The club performance history may be stored in the memory as parameters for an ellipsoid wherein values for a center point (with respect to distance) , a major axis, a minor axis, and an angle are actually stored. With respect to these values, the performance history is created based on a statistical analysis of past performance. Each shot previously played is assigned a club value, a distance value, and a deviation value. The club value is a value corresponding to a club being hit. The distance value is a value corresponding to a distance travelled, and the deviation value is an angle of deviation formed by the line through a ball's previous location and the ball's present location and the line through a ball's previous location and a desired ball's location. For example, for each club, a two-dimensional graph can be generated wherein the end location of the ball is (x',y') and the starting location is (0,0). With respect to this graphic representation, the distance value is the distance between (x' , y') and (0, 0), and the deviation angle is the angle created by the line between (x', y') and (0, 0) and the y-axis. The plotting of the various points will define a statistical area that can be defined, for example, geometrically by the parameters of an ellipsoid. With respect to an ellipsoid, a statistical representation can be stored using only four values; a center point, a major axis, a minor axis, and an angle. The center point can be the

(x, y) coordinate representing the center of the ellipsoid with the origin being the starting location of the ball. The major axis and minor axis of the ellipsoid would define the statistical area of the shot's landing area, and the angle would be the variance of the center point from the y-axis with the origin as the apex.

This statistical area can be created using any conventional technique. Moreover, the present invention can include an option to allow the user to vary the sample, thereby providing another tool for analysis. For example, if the player has recently taken lessons, the operator can limit one sample to shots after the lessons and another sample to shots before the lessons to determine from the two statistical areas if there has been improvement in performance. For an ellipsoid, improvement would be reflected as a decreased in the angle, a smaller major axis or a smaller minor axis.

The central processor can utilize these values to formulate the projected target area of the next shot wherein the center point represents the center of the target area and the major axis and the minor axis define the outer boundaries of the target area. This information can be stored for a variety of probabilities for each club.

This memory 11 can be loaded with the golf club history as well as the graphical golf course layout through the input/output device 12. While the golf course is being played, the club usage history can be updated and can be downloaded, upon completion, to an external storage device, such as a personal computer through the input/output terminal 12. Figure 3 illustrates a small part of a flow chart of some of the various functions carried out by the present invention. More specifically. Figure 3 illustrates some of the utilization of the electronic device 1 during the course of playing a game of golf. Upon start up, the individual playing golf inputs the hole number which the individual is presently playing. For example, if the individual is initially starting to play eighteen holes, the individual would input hole number one as being the hole now presently being played at step 51.

Upon inputting the hole number, the electronic device, at step 52, displays on the display device 2 the hole layout, graphically. Next, the electronic device, at step 53, determines which function has been inputted by the individual golfer. Depending upon which function is inputted by the individual golfer, the electronic device 1, through the central processor unit 10 will carry out one of various sub-routines.

If the contour function is selected by the individual golfer at step 53, the process proceeds to step 60. Upon selection of the contour function, the central processor unit 10 determines whether the contour function is set to have the elevation with respect to the elevation of the pin. More specifically, the individual golfer can choose whether to have the contour lines associated with the location of the ball as being zero feet or the contour lines being associated with the pin with the pin being at zero feet.

If, at step 51, it is determined that the pin is to be used as the reference elevation, the central processor unit 10, at step 63, calculates the contour lines with respect to the pin.

On the other hand, if the central processor unit 10, at step 61, determines that the pin is not to be utilized as the reference elevation, the central processor unit 10 calculates the contour lines with respect to the ball being the reference elevation at step 62.

After these calculations, the display screen 2, at step 64, displays the contour lines superimposed on the graphical hole layout. The contour lines may be labelled either as plus (+) elevation or negative (-) elevation with respect to the reference elevation.

For example, if the pin is chosen as_the reference level and the ball is two feet below this reference level, the location on the ball on the graphical hole layout will be associated with a contour line labelled negative two (-2) .

On the other hand, for example, if the pin is four feet above the location of the ball and the ball is selected as the reference elevation, the display device 2 will display a contour line through the pin location which is labelled plus four (+4) . Upon the execution of step 64, the process returns to step 53.

If the probability function is selected at step 53, the central processor unit 10 proceeds to step 70. Upon selection of the probability function, the central processor unit 10 receives an input corresponding to a club selection and an input corresponding to the probability desired at step 71. From these inputs, the central processor unit 10, at step 72, determines the target for the selected club with respect to the inputted probability. It is noted that in one preferred embodiment of the present invention, the individual golfer can input a number of probabilities such that the central processor unit 10 at step 72 determines a number of targets with respect to each probability.

Upon the execution of step 72, the display device 2, at step 73, displays on the graphical hole layout the target or targets with the proper labelled probability. These targets may either be arcs or ellipsoids. For example, if a number of probabilities are entered at step 71, the display device at step 73 will display a number of concentric arcs or ellipsoids which represent the various probability areas. Each one of these arcs or ellipsoids can be formed or shaded differently to correspond to the different probability areas. Upon completion of this probability function, the central processor unit 10 returns to step 53.

If at step 53, the marker function has been selected the central processor unit 10 proceeds to step 80. Upon selection of the marker function, the desired increment of the yardage arcs and the reference point are inputted at step 81. At step 82, the central processor unit 10 determines the actual yardage arcs with respect to the defined increment and reference point. The central processor unit then controls the display device 2 to display the yardage arcs superimposed upon the graphical hole layout at step 83, thereafter returning to step 53.

If at step 53, the individual golfer inputs the play function, the central processor unit 10 proceeds to step 90. Upon selection of the play function, the individual golfer, at step 91, inputs the club used in advancing the ball and the central processor unit 10 tallies a stroke against the score of the individual golfer. After inputting the club used, the individual golfer utilizes the cursor control 4 to move the cursor to the exact location of the ball with respect to the graphical hole layout at step 92.

Upon inputting the club used and the location of the ball, the central processor unit 10, at step 93, calculates the distance travelled by the ball and the distance to the pin from the ball. The central processor unit 10 then stores the distance travelled with the club used at step 94 so as to maintain a complete golf club stroke history for future reference and analysis.

Thereafter, the central processor unit 10, at step 95, determines the next club utilizing the distance to go and the stored golf club history. Upon making this determination, the central processor unit 10, at step 96, displays the suggested club to be used for the next shot. After this information is displayed, the central processor unit returns to step 53.

The central processor unit 10 may also use stored intrinsic characteristic information to evaluate which club is to be selected. The generation of this intrinsic characteristic information will be discussed in more detail below.

Figure 4(A) illustrates information 21 on the display screen 2. More specifically, upon selecting the function to display the scores of all the players playing the round, the electronic device 1 displays, for each player, on the display screen 2 the number of strokes for each hole as well as the score for the front nine and the score for the back nine and the total score for all eighteen holes as illustrated by 21 of Figure 4(A).

In Figure 4(B) , the electronic device 1 displays the individual strokes for the player utilizing the electronic device 1 as illustrated by item 22. More specifically, Figure 4(B) illustrates the electronic device 1 displaying the clubs utilized by the individual player for each hole as well as the score for each hole, the score for the front nine, the score for the back nine, and the total score for eighteen holes. The displaying of club usage can be chronological.

Figure 5 illustrates the electronic device 1 displaying a possible menu for the present invention. This menu, as illustrated on the display screen 2 by item 23, informs the user as to the functions associated with the manipulation of certain keys on the keyboard 3. On the other hand, the keyboard 3 may have certain keys dedicated to predetermined functions, thus, reducing the use of a menu.

Figure 6 illustrates the electronic device 1 in the yardage marker function mode. More specifically, upon the input or selection of the marker function and the input of the increment between yardage arcs and reference point, the electronic device 1 will display the hole being played with yardage arcs superimposed thereon. As illustrated in Figure 6, for example, the yardage arcs represent fifty yard increments with the pin as the reference point. The yardage arcs are represented by item 23 of Figure 6.

Figure 7 illustrates the information displayed when the electronic device 1 is in the probability function mode. More specifically, when the individual golfer selects the probability function mode and further inputs the club to be selected and the probability or probabilities desired, the electronic device 1 will display the probability target superimposed upon the graphical hole layout. For example, as illustrated in Figure 7, the target is ellipsoidal shape. The outer ring 24 of the probability target area represents the outer boundaries of the ninety percent target area. The next inner concentric ring of the target area as illustrated in Figure 7 may represent the eighty percent area whereas the next inner concentric ellipsoid may represent, for example, the seventy percent probability area. Figure 8 illustrates the electronic device 1 in the contour function mode. In the contour function mode, the electronic device 1 displays the graphic hole layout with contour lines 25 superimposed thereon. Each of these contour lines, for example, may be labelled with the approximate elevation of that area with respect to either the pin as a reference point or the location of the ball as a reference point.

Operations of the Present Invention The present invention, as illustrated in Figure l, is an electronic device 1 with a keyboard or keypad 3 and a pictorial display 2. The electronic device 1 is loaded before playing a golf course with data and individual player's handicap as well as an individual's golf club stroke history. During the round, the present invention displays the course and player's data while recording detailed player information. After a round is completed, a player's score can be downloaded to the club's handicap system wherein an individual scorecard can be printed.

Individual golf course information is loaded before playing a course to have the pictorial information and data for each hole on the course. This includes all information normally found on a detailed course scorecard plus precise graphical information detailing all the individual features of the hole and the location of the pin and tee areas with respect to that day's placement. Moreover, the course layout can be easily updated to show tournament placements, temporary hazards, repair areas, tee area changes, and pin placements, etc. This data can be downloaded from a computer at the golf course's pro-shop or from a data disk which can be loaded individually into the electronic device 1. The generation of this course data can be realized by any conventional electronic mapping method which is capable of electronically mapping terrain characteristics of a selected area so that the terrain can be graphically displayed.

Prior to starting a round of golf, individual handicap data may be entered as well as data relating to the type of game being played; i.e., "Best Ball", "Scramble", "Wolf", or "Skins", etc. The players individual handicap and home course slope rating is entered to accurately assign a handicap per hole. Moreover, team pairing and other handicapping adjustments can be entered.

One feature of the present invention is the accurate presentation of the situation for any hole with respect to the next shot and giving the exact distance to the pin. This feature enables the speeding up of play by eliminating the need for walking off distance to markers and allowing the golfer to carefully analyze the individual holes prior to play.

Upon starting any given hole, the individual golfer inputs the hole number and a map of that hole is graphically displayed on the electronic device 1. After each shot, when the golfer gets to the ball's location, the golfer records the club just played and moves the cursor on the display to the ball's new location. The golfer pin-points the location of the ball on the display by referencing the various prominent course features displayed on the screen. Upon inputting the new location of the ball, the present invention stores this information and displays the remaining distance to the green and the strokes used so far. If the exact location of the pin is not downloaded prior to play from the pro-shop, as soon as the green can be readily seen by the player, the pin placement on the green can be entered through the utilization of cursor control. After input of the location of the ball into the electronic device, the present invention utilizes the distance remaining to the pin and analyzes the golfer's golf club history stored in the memory to determine which club the golfer should utilize in making the next shot. Upon making this determination, the present invention displays the suggested golf club on the display screen. After receiving the information for the suggested golf club, the individual golf player can select the probability function and determine the target area corresponding to a probability inputted by the golf player. For example, the golf player can input the suggested club and determine the area corresponding to a ninety percent probability that the ball will land in that area.

Thus, if the ninety percent probability area shows a significant chance of the ball landing in a hazard area or bunker, the player can then re-select a new club accordingly and recheck the probability area so as to make a more conservative shot and thus avoid any penalties.

The electronic device of the present invention utilizes data input terminal to input data associated with a layout of a selected golf course data relating to a history of club performance for an individual golfer; a memory to store the data; a cursor controller to manually input a location of a golfball with respect to a hole being played; a keyboard to input data relating to a selected club and function commands; a processor to calculate a distance the golfball has travelled and a distance from the manually inputted location to a location of a pin on a green. The memory stores the distance the golfball has travelled in a storage area. The processor determines, based upon the data stored in the storage area, an optimal club to be utilized to transverse the distance from the location of the golfball to the pin on the green. Lastly, a display screen displays the determined optimal club.

The electronic device graphically displays a layout of a hole being played. The electronic device can also enlarge the graphical display of a selected area of the hole being played.

The electronic device receives the location of the ball by moving a cursor displayed on the display screen to a location on the display screen corresponding to the actual location of the ball with respect to the hole being played. The electronic device can also receive a location of the pin of the green by moving a cursor displayed on the display screen to a location on the display screen corresponding to an exact location of the pin with respect to the hole being played.

The electronic device displays contour lines representing constant elevation with respect to the elevation of the pin. The electronic device also displays contour lines representing constant elevation with respect to the elevation of the ball. The electronic device further displays yardage arcs representing defined intervals of distance from the pin, or the electronic device displays yardage arcs representing defined intervals of distance from the location of the golfball.

The electronic device invention may display an individual's play record with club usage, in chronological order, for each hole played. The electronic device also displays a target area corresponding to a selected probability and the optimal club determined by the processor. This target area may be concentric ellipsoids, each ellipsoid being shaded differently to represent distinct selected probabilities.

Lastly, the electronic device can graphically display tee areas, fairways, greens, rough, sandtraps, bunkers, water, hazards, temporary hazards, out of bounds, cart paths, trees, plants, markers, and other discernable features. To achieve the above results, the present invention performs a method which includes the steps of: inputting first data associated with a layout of a selected golf course; inputting second data relating to club selection; storing the first data and the second data; manually inputting a location of a golfball with respect to a hole being played; calculating a distance the golfball has travelled and a distance from the manually inputted location to a location of a pin on a green; storing the distance the golfball has travelled in a first storage area, the first storage area storing the distance the golfball has travelled with the associated second data; determining, based upon the data stored in the storage area, an optimal club to be utilized to transverse the distance from the location of the golfball to the pin on the green; and displaying the determined optimal club.

The method can prestore in the —storage area distances and associated club data generated during previous play. The method also graphically displays a layout of a hole being played. The method further may^" enlarge the graphical display of a selected area of the hole being played.

The method of this embodiment of the present invention inputs the location of the ball by moving a displayed cursor to a location on a display screen corresponding to the actual location of the ball with respect to the hole being played and can input a location of the pin of the green by moving a cursor displayed on a display screen to a location on the display screen corresponding to an exact location of the pin with respect to the hole being played.

To convey further information, the method displays contour lines representing constant elevation with respect to the elevation of the pin or can display contour lines representing constant elevation with respect to the elevation of the ball. The method may display yardage arcs representing defined intervals of distance from the pin or displaying yardage arcs representing defined intervals of distance from the location of the golfball. The method of this embodiment displays an individual's play record with club usage, in chronological order, for each hole played. The method further displays a target area corresponding to a selected probability and the determined optimal club. This target area may be concentric ellipsoids, each ellipsoid being shaded differently to represent distinct selected probabilities. The method can also graphically displays tee areas, fairways, greens, rough, sandtraps, bunkers, water, hazards, temporary hazards, out of bounds, cart paths, trees, plants, and markers.

A third embodiment of the present invention operates as follows. A first data input terminal inputs first data associated with a layout of a selected golf course. A keyboard inputs second data relating to club selection, a desired probability, and a probability function command. A second data input terminal inputs third data, the third data being a database of the history of the distance and associated club data generated during previous play. A memory stores the first data and the third data. A central processor unit determines, based upon the data stored in the memory, a target for a selected club in accordance with the desired probability, the target representing a projected distance from a present location of the golfball to where the golfball should be located for the given club selection and probability. A display screen displays a target corresponding to the determination of the central processor unit.

The target may be concentric ellipsoids, each ellipsoid being shaded differently to represent distinct selected probabilities, or the target may be an arc representing a probable distance the golfball will transverse if the selected club is used on a next shot. To achieve the above results, the present invention performs a method which includes the steps of inputting first data associated with a layout of a selected golf course; inputting second data relating to club selection, a desired probability, and a probability function command; inputting third data, the third data being a database of the history of the distance and associated club data generated during previous play; storing the first data and the third data; determining, based upon the stored data, a target for a selected club in accordance with the desired probability, the target representing a projected distance from a present location of the golfball to where the golfball should be located for the given club selection and probability; and displaying a target corresponding to the determination.

The target may be concentric ellipsoids, each ellipsoid being shaded differently to represent distinct selected probabilities, or the target may be an arc representing a probable distance the golfball will transverse if the selected club is used on a next shot.

At any point during play, the present invention can display a standard scorecard with the strokes for each individual player by hole and current totals. Moreover, handicap strokes between partners and competitive teams and individuals net strokes can be compared in a variety of fashions according to the format of the golf game. Also, the present invention can display the club usage so far from the individual golfer.

The data entered into the present invention by the individual golfer during play can be utilized for golf play analysis after the completion of a round. Thus, the golfer can see over a long term basis just how the golfer is utilizing the club, which situations lead to better performance and what areas of the golfer's game need substantial improvement.

At the end of the round, the present invention can again be reconnected to the pro-shop computer which allows the data to be transferred to the clubs handicap system. The clubhouse computer can then print out a full standard scorecard for each individual player. Moreover, the computer can print out a detailed scorecard showing normal scorekeeping for the round, the chronological usage of all clubs per hole, and a full course map with locations marked for each shot.

The present invention stores all data on all shots, by club, by recording the distance. Even the quality of the player's performance for a given day can be entered, if desired. More specifically, if the user is hitting "fat" or "thin" or "pushing" or "pulling", these characteristics can be entered.

An experienced golfer can judge for any particular day whether the golfer is hitting fatter or thinner than usual, or whether the golfer has a slice or hook or these are more pronounced than usual. The utilization of these characteristics can be used to modify or adapt the target area stored in the present invention.

For example, the electronic device can be downloaded with the layout of the course's driving range with driving boxes. The golfer can then hit a variety of clubs and input approximate ball location as if playing a round. When utilizing this feature, the target area of the golfer's past performance for a selected club is displayed along with marks for the ball's location on the driving range for that club. From this display, the golfer can make a determination as to whether to adapt or modify the target area for that day's apparent characteristics. If the golfer chooses to modify the target area, the golfer can utilize the cursor controller to move the target area, accordingly, to correspond to the golfer's evaluation of the displayed marks. At this time, the processor can re-calculate values for the a statistical ellipsoid area, for example, and store the modified center point, major axis, minor axis, and angle in a storage area separate from the storage area storing past performance statistical data. Thus, if the golfer so chooses, the golfer can utilize the modified statistics for that day's round in lieu of the past performance statistics. This way the golfer's present characteristics for a certain club can be used in assisting the golfer's performance in playing that day's roun .

During post play analysis, the user may review a wide variety of statistics of the golfer's play with each club. The golfer may review the last ten rounds for the average distance of each iron, or the golfer's play on the last year's performance on the 13th hole of a particular course, or the situations which resulted in slices or draws, or the trends evolving in the golfer's putting during the last year. The golfer may identify not only how each individual club is played, but the situations leading to poor shots.

The present invention may also be utilized to preview a course to be played or an appealing famous course. In previewing a course to be played, the present invention utilizes the golfer's complete club stroke history and statistics to project the golfer's play upon that course. Thus, the golfer will be able to get a better idea of how to play that course with respect to the golfer's individual characteristics. Moreover, favorable positions will become more obvious to the golfer because the trial play will use actual distances of the course coupled with the actual characteristics of the user's game and club selection. The present invention supports playing through a visual display for the presentation of important and useful information to aid the golfer. This information includes the displaying of a visual graphical picture of each golf hole from tee through green including any features such as tees, fairways, greens, roughs, sandtraps, bunkers, water, hazards, out of bounds, cart paths, trees, plants, markers, and any other pertinent feature. This graphical display may be enlarged in an area of interest particularly around the green as the golfer approaches.

The present invention also displays the distances from the pin or other reference point with yardage arcs superimposed upon the display of the hole. These yardage arcs can be set to a desired increment by the user, for example, increments of fifty yards. Moreover, the present invention allows the user to determine distances between the ball, tee, pin, and other arbitrarily chosen locations by moving the location of the cursor on the display.

The present invention displays the terrain contour features through the illustration of contour lines of selectable elevation intervals on the display map of any hole. The display of a projected image of an area of probability where a shot with a selected club will land is another feature of the present invention. This area of probability can be a simple arc of a standard distance of a given club to an ellipsoid based on that golfer's history of shot length and directional accuracy with the club either selected by the golfer or recommended by the computer. Multiple concentric areas of probability may be presented for certain selected probabilities, such as areas of seventy percent probability and the area of eighty-five percent probability. Probability areas can take into consideration terrain features such as hazard and terrain elevation, variation of slope, which effect both distance and direction.

The display of the present invention may selectively show graphic and numeric data, combining both forms on the screen as desired. The present invention enhances the utility and effectiveness of the display by providing the display cursor which can be moved to accurately locate the position of the ball, generally in reference to the features displayed. This cursor control can also be utilized to select the actual location of the pin on the green, rendering the distance calculations more accurate and thus aiding clubs selection. The cursor may also be employed in interrogating the device for distances from the ball to any selected location or feature, such as a sandtrap or water hazard. The cursor directional movement may be controlled by an x-y rocker switch, joystick, tumble wheels, or other two-dimensional input devices.

This present invention records all the shots taken by a golfer. The golfer enters the club used, via the keypad, and moves the cursor on the display, via the cursor control, to the ball's new location. Other shot characteristics can be entered as desired for play analysis. The device maintains a complete record of all shots taken during a golf round. This data can be used for two purposes, scorekeeping and performance analysis.

The scorekeeping function is simply a calculation of summing the number of strokes for each hole. This may be presented in format similar to any standard golf course scorecard or an expanded format displaying all the clubs usage for each hole in chronological order. The scoring data can be shown as characters on the display.

Scorekeeping for a foursome playing together is also a capability of the present invention. Actual stroke scores for each hole for the other players, not including the actual user, could be entered through the keyboard to the device to allow for a foursome scorekeeping. Scores can be adjusted using individual handicaps. Competitive scoring using handicaps, teaming arrangements, and other formats can also be easily accommodated.

The complete club stroke history is maintained for performance analysis and aid in future practicing and club selection when playing. Every stroke on every hole of every round is recorded and may be maintained in a central data base for analysis, trend observation, and performance prediction. For each shot taken, the club used, distance, direction, and other factors are recorded and stored. Shot direction variation left and right is computed using actual shot direction relative to a desired shot direction entered via cursor movement or relative to a default direction, the center of the fairway, at the nominal distance of the selected club.

Even putts may be characterized and recorded for trend analysis and performance improvement.

Personal computer programs can provide analysis and trend charts to help in visualizing developing trends in an individual's game. Statistical programs show long term statistics of playing trend analysis program show play characteristics by individual round.

The overall operations of the preferred embodiment of the present invention is to provide an electronic device which aids in the golfer's performance by accurately determining the distance of the ball to the pin and suggesting a club to be utilized by the golfer for the next shot based upon a statistical analysis of the golfer's golf club stroke history stored in the electronic device. Thus, the present invention provides a more meaningful and accurate device for assisting the golfer in improving the individual's performance. While only certain embodiments of the present invention have been described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art the various changes and modifications may be made therein without departing from the scope of the present invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

What is claimed is: 1. An electronic device for providing aid in playing golf, comprising: first data input means for inputting first data associated with characteristics of a selected golf course; second data input means for inputting second data relating to club selection; storage means for storing said first data and said second data; third data input means for manually inputting a location of a golfball with respect to a hole being played; calculating means for calculating a distance the golfball has travelled and a distance from the manually inputted location to a location of a pin on a green in response to said third data input means; said storage means storing said distance the golfball has travelled in a storage area, said storage area storing said distance the golfball has travelled with the associated second data inputted by said second data input means; processing means for determining an optimal club to be utilized to transverse the distance from the location of the golfball to the pin on the green from the data stored in said storage area; and display means, in response to said processing means, for displaying the optimal club determined by said processing means.

2. The electronic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said first storage area is prestored with performance history distance parameters and associated club data generated during previous play.

3. The electronic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said display means graphically displays a layout of a hole being played.

4. The electronic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein said display means enlarges the graphical display of a selected area of the hole being played.

5. The electronic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein said third data input means inputs the location of the ball by moving a cursor displayed on said display means to a location corresponding to the actual location of the ball with respect to the hole being played.

6. The electronic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein said third data input means inputs a location of the pin of the green by moving a cursor displayed on said display means to a location corresponding to an exact location of the pin with respect to the green of the hole being played.

7. The electronic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein said display means displays contour lines representing constant elevation of the golf course with respect to the elevation of the pin.

8. The electronic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein said display means displays contour lines representing constant elevation of the golf course with respect to the elevation of the ball.

9. The electronic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein said display means displays yardage arcs representing defined intervals of distance from the pin.

10. The electronic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein said display means displays yardage arcs representing defined intervals of distance from the location of the golfball.

11. The electronic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said display means displays an individual play record with club usage, in chronological order, for each hole played.

12. The electronic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein said display means displays a target area corresponding to a selected probability for the optimal club as determined by said processing means or for a club determined by player selection.

13. The electronic device as claimed in claim 12, wherein said target area is concentric ellipsoids, each ellipsoid being shaded differently to represent distinct selected probabilities of shots ending in that area.

14. The electronic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein said display means graphically displays tee boxes, fairways, greens, rough, sandtraps, bunkers, water, hazards, temporary hazards, out of bounds, cart paths, trees, plants, and markers.

15. The electronic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said second data input means inputs intrinsic characteristic data of each shot taken during play; said storage means storing said intrinsic characteristic data in said storage area; said processing means using the stored intrinsic characteristics data to support and adapt the club selection process in response to determined recent trends of hitting.

16. The electronic device as claimed in claim 1 wherein said first data input means inputs programs and data associated with operations and functions of the device.

17. The electronic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein said display means superimposes character data on the graphical display to display parameters of the game of golf.

18. The electronic device as claimed-in claim 3, wherein said third data input means inputs a location of a point of interest for visual analysis by moving a cursor displayed on said display means to a location corresponding to the point of interest.

19. The electronic device as claimed in claim l, wherein said display means displays a menu display; said third data input means selecting an item from the menu display by moving a cursor displayed on said display means to a location of an item being selected.

20. An electronic device for providing aid in playing golf, comprising: a first data input terminal to input first data associated with characteristics of a selected golf course and to input second data relating to a history of club performance for an individual golfer; a memory to store said first data and said second data; a cursor controller to manually input a location of a golfball with respect to a hole being played; a keyboard to input third data relating to a selected club and function commands; a processor to calculate a distance the golfball has travelled and a distance from the manually inputted location to a location of a pin on a green in response to said cursor controller and keyboard; said memory storing said distance the golfball has travelled in a storage area, said storage area storing said distance with associated second and third data; said processor determining an optimal club to be utilized to transverse said distance from the location of the golfball to the pin on the green from the data stored in said storage area; and a display screen, in response to said processor, to display the optimal club determined by said processor.

21. The electronic device as claimed in claim 20, wherein said display screen graphically displays a layout of a hole being played.

22. The electronic device as claimed in claim 21, wherein said display screen enlarges the graphical display of a selected area of the hole being played.

23. The electronic device as claimed in claim 21, wherein said cursor controller inputs the location of the ball by moving a cursor displayed on said display screen to a location corresponding to the actual location of the ball with respect to the hole being played.

24. The electronic device as claimed in claim 21, wherein said cursor controller inputs a location of the pin of the green by moving a cursor displayed on said display screen to a location corresponding to an exact location of the pin with respect to the green of the hole being played.

25. The electronic device as claimed in claim 21, wherein said display screen displays contour lines representing constant elevation of the golf course with respect to the elevation of the pin.

26. The electronic device as claimed in claim 21, wherein said display screen displays contour lines representing constant elevation of the golf course with respect to the elevation of the ball.

27. The electronic device as claimed in claim 21, wherein said display screen displays yardage arcs representing defined intervals of distance from the pin.

28. The electronic device as claimed in claim 21, wherein said display means displays yardage arcs representing defined intervals of distance from the location of the golfball.

29. The electronic device as claimed in claim 20, wherein said display screen displays an individual play record with club usage, in chronological order, for each hole played.

30. The electronic device as claimed in claim 21, wherein said display screen displays a target area corresponding to a selected probability for the optimal club determined by said processor or for a club determined by player selection.

31. The electronic device as claimed in claim 30, wherein said target area is concentric ellipsoids, each ellipsoid being shaded differently to represent distinct selected probabilities of shots ending in that area.

32. The electronic device as claimed in claim 21, wherein said display screen graphically displays tee boxes, fairways, greens, rough, sandtraps, bunkers, water, hazards, temporary hazards, out of bounds, cart paths, trees, plants, and markers.

33. The electronic device as claimed in claim 20, wherein said first data input terminal inputs programs and data associated with operations and functions of the device.

34. The electronic device as claimed in claim 21, wherein said display superimposes character data on the graphical display to display parameters of the game of golf.

35. The electronic device as claimed in claim 21, wherein said cursor controller inputs a location of a point of interest for visual analysis by moving a cursor displayed on said display to a location corresponding to the point of interest.

36. The electronic device as claimed in claim 20, wherein said display displays a menu display; said cursor controller selecting an item from the menu display by moving a cursor displayed on said display to a location of an item being selected.

37. A method for electronically aiding an individual playing golf, comprising the steps of: (a) inputting first data associated with characteristics of a selected golf course; (b) inputting second data relating to club selection; (c) storing the first data and the second data; (d) manually inputting a location of a golfball with respect to a hole being played; (e) calculating a distance the golfball has travelled and a distance from the manually inputted location to a location of a pin on a green; (f) storing the distance the golfball has travelled in a storage area, the storage area storing the distance the golfball has travelled with the associated second data; (g) determining, based upon the data stored in the storage area, an optimal club to be utilized to transverse the distance from the location of the golfball to the pin on the green; and (h) displaying the optimal club determined in said step (g) .

38. The method as claimed in claim 37, further comprising the step of: (i) prestoring, in the storage area, distances and associated club data generated during previous play.

39. The method as claimed in claim 38, further comprising the step of: (i) graphically displaying a layout of a hole being played.

40. The method as claimed in claim 39, further comprising the step of: (i) enlarging the graphical display of a selected area of the hole being played.

41. The method as claimed in claim 39, further comprising the step of: (j) inputting the location of the ball by moving a displayed cursor to a location corresponding to the actual location of the ball with respect to the hole being played.

42. The method as claimed in claim 39, further comprising the step of: (j) inputting a location of the pin of the green by moving a cursor displayed on a display screen to a location corresponding to an exact location of the pin with respect to the green of the hole being played.

43. The method as claimed in claim 39, further comprising the step of: (j) displaying contour lines representing constant elevation of the golf course with respect to the elevation of the pin.

44. The method as claimed in claim 39, further comprising the step of: (j) displaying contour lines representing constant elevation of the golf course with respect to the elevation of the ball.

45. The method as claimed in claim 39, further comprising the step of: (j) displaying yardage arcs representing defined intervals of distance from the pin.

46. The method as claimed in claim 39, further comprising the step of: (j) displaying yardage arcs representing defined intervals of distance from the location of the golfball.

47. The method as claimed in claim 37, further comprising the step of: (i) displaying an individual play record with club usage, in chronological order, for each hole played.

48. The method as claimed in claim 39, further comprising the step of: (j) displaying a target area corresponding to a selected probability for the optimal club determined by said step (g) or for a club determined by player selection.

49. The method as claimed in claim 48, wherein the target area is concentric ellipsoids, each ellipsoid being shaded differently to represent distinct selected probabilities of shots ending in that area.

50. The method as claimed in claim 39, further comprising the step of: (j) graphically displaying tee boxes, fairways, greens, rough, sandtraps, bunkers, water, hazards, temporary hazards, out of bounds, cart paths, trees, plants, and markers.

51. The method as claimed in claim 37, further comprising the step of: (i) inputting programs and data associated with operations and functions of the device.

52. The method as claimed in claim 39, further comprising the step of: (j) superimposing character data on the graphical display to display parameters of the game of golf.

53. The method as claimed in claim 39, further comprising the step of: (j) inputting a location of a point of interest for visual analysis by moving a cursor displayed on the display to a location corresponding to the point of interest.

54. The method as claimed in claim 37, further comprising the steps of: (i) displaying a menu display; and (j) selecting an item from the menu display by moving a cursor displayed on the display to a location of an item being selected.

55. An electronic device for providing aid in playing golf, comprising: first data input means for inputting first data associated with characteristics of a selected golf course and for inputting second data, said second data being a database of a history of distance and associated club data generated during previous play; second data input means for inputting third data relating to club selection, a desired probability, and a probability function command; storage means for storing said first data and said second data; processing means, based upon said second data stored in said storage means, for determining a target for a selected club in accordance with the inputted desired probability, said target representing a projected distance from a present location of the golfball to where the golfball should be located for the inputted club selection and probability; and display means, in response to said processing means, for displaying a target corresponding to the determination of said analysis means.

56. The electronic device as claimed in claim 55, wherein said target is concentric ellipsoids, each ellipsoid being shaded differently to represent distinct selected probabilities.

57. The electronic device as claimed in claim 55, wherein said target is an arc representing a probable distance the golfball will transverse if the selected club is used on a next shot.

58. The electronic device as claimed in claim 55, wherein said first data input means is a serial input terminal and a memory card terminal.

59. An electronic device for providing aid in playing golf, comprising: a first serial data input terminal to input first data associated with characteristics of a selected golf course and to input second data, said second data being a database of a history of distance and associated club data generated during previous play; a keyboard to input third data relating to club selection, a desired probability, and a probability function command; a memory for storing said first data and said second data; a central processor, based upon said second data stored in said memory, to determine a target for a selected club in accordance with the desired probability, said target representing a projected distance from a present location of the golfball to where the golfball should be located for the inputted club selection and probability; and a display screen, in response to said central processor, to display a target corresponding to the determination of said central processor.

60. The electronic device as claimed in claim 59, wherein said target is concentric ellipsoids, each ellipsoid being shaded differently to represent distinct selected probabilities.

61. The electronic device as claimed in claim 59, wherein said target is an arc representing a probable distance the golfball will transverse if the selected club is used on a next shot.

62. The electronic device as claimed in claim 59, further comprising: a memory card terminal to input said second data.

63. A method for electronically aiding an individual playing golf, comprising the steps of: (a) inputting first data associated with characteristics of a selected golf course; (b) inputting second data relating to club selection, a desired probability, and a probability function command; (c) inputting third data, the third data being a database of a history of distance and associated club data generated during previous play; (d) storing the first data and the third data; (e) determining, based upon the stored data, a target for a selected club in accordance with the desired probability, the target representing a projected distance from a present location of the golfball to where the golfball should be located for the inputted club selection and probability; and (f) displaying a target corresponding to the determination of said step (e) .

64. The method as claimed in claim 63, wherein the target is concentric ellipsoids, each ellipsoid being shaded differently to represent distinct selected probabilities.

65. The method as claimed in claim 63, wherein the target is an arc representing a probable distance the golfball will transverse if the selected club is used on a next shot.