Mechanical Putter Performance Pendulum

Measuring golf club performance is difficult because it involves dual analysis of the club’s mechanical characteristics as well as player perception and interaction with the club. A mechanical apparatus that emulates the swing but removes player variability can help determine if design changes improve a putter.

This team created a mechatronic system to precisely and consistently test putter performance. The system repeatedly mimics the swing of a putter, changes the swing parameters as desired, and analyzes outcomes. The team’s design incorporates a combination of mechanical and electrical systems to precisely place the putter face, enabling analysis at various points of impact. The heart of the system is an MPP1428 servo motor that allows for precise swing motion and adjustable swing speed up to 8 mph.

Using two linear rails combined with servo motors, precise adjustments are made in the X and Z axes, with height adjustment integrated into the system’s swing arm. The performance putter pendulum includes continuous yaw axis adjustment using a worm driven assembly, which can be locked in place to ensure consistent swings. The pitch axis of the swing can be adjusted 0 degrees to 20 degrees via a custom motor mounting system and quick release pins. A separate pitch adjustment independently changes that parameter for the club to remain at its typical 20-degree lie angle.