2134/10856
Thomas E. Harper
Thomas E.
Harper
Jonathan Roberts
Jonathan
Roberts
Roy Jones
Roy
Jones
A.J. Carrott
A.J.
Carrott
Development and evaluation of new control algorithms for a mechanical golf swing device
Loughborough University
2012
Golf robot
Swing kinematics
Motion control
Swing simulation
Mechanical Engineering not elsewhere classified
2012-11-05 16:19:09
Journal contribution
https://repository.lboro.ac.uk/articles/journal_contribution/Development_and_evaluation_of_new_control_algorithms_for_a_mechanical_golf_swing_device/9563849
Golf swing machines have become fundamental tools in the development of new
equipment because they provide more consistent swing motions than golfers. Golf robots
perform a simplification of the complex sequence of motions that compose a golf swing;
however, traditional devices are typically capable of performing only a single swing profile at
variable speeds. Significant differences exist between individual golfers’ swing motions,
especially for golfers of different ability, experience, and physical stature, which suggests a
requirement for swing profile variability in mechanical simulators. This investigation has found
that the swing motion of a traditional golf robot provides a poor representation of golfers’
swings and, as a result, a bespoke control system has been developed for a commercially
available golf robot to enable performance of variable swing profiles with positional feedback.
Robot swing command files are generated by fitting a curve to a number of discrete data points
that are equally spaced in time, and which define angles representative of individual golfers’
swings. The swing profiles of a professional golfer and a traditional golf robot were repeated
accurately using this golf robot with a modified motion control system. The capability for
individual golfers’ swings to be accurately replicated using a mechanical device was
demonstrated using feedback data. All manufacturers recognize the importance of tailoring
equipment to the unique characteristics of a particular golfer’s swing, and this increased robot
functionality will provide considerable benefits in the development of customized equipment.