Development of a reusable practice device to measure the power, accuracy, and placement of a golf shot

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis was to develop a reusable practice device that could help golfers analyze their shots. A Magic Pad, consisting of a translucent, plastic top layer and a statically charged thin layer of cardboard, was modified and placed on the clubface. When the clubface strikes the ball, the top plastic layer attaches itself to the bottom layer creating a noticeable impression. By peeling the top layer, the device could be reset and used again several times. A series of tests was conducted to prove the viability of this device. The device was effective in analyzing several aspects of a golf shot. The marks made on the device from impact with the ball were clear and dark. This device is most effective in determining the placement of the ball on the clubface, but it is also successful in identifying inaccurate shots. Slices occur when the club head does not hit the ball squarely, and this is translated unto the device. A few characteristic marks signal a slice. The most obvious is a mark with amorphous shape, favoring one side of the ball, instead of a circular indentation. Shear streaks, straight diagonal lines at the angle of impact, are also apparent and allow the golfer to adjust their swing to compensate.

(cont.) The third aspect of the shot that the device could have measured was the power. A bigger indentation did not necessarily produce the greatest yardage, however. The most impressive indentations were produced by a combination of accuracy and power. In this way, the golfer can clearly identify a quality shot. This fact, coupled with the inexpensive materials, makes the device a viable product.