The Overview
The GCHawk™ is a ceiling-mounted launch monitor that delivers the newest technology for sports simulation. Harnessing the same object-sensing and image-capturing technology found on the GCQuad, the overhead-mounted GCHawk fits seamlessly into a commercial or residential environment
Even from an elevated position, GCHawk™ delivers the same accuracy and shot-after-shot reliability expected from Foresight Sports technologies. The key to its unmatched performance lies in state-of-the art object recognition and imaging technology.
The Context and Challenge
Following the industry leading success of GC2 and GCQuad, Foresight was motivated to work with DDSTUDIO to create a more versatile multi-sport simulator that would provide the same image capturing accuracy with more versatility. They needed to design a machine that would allow for a player’s maximum freedom and flexibility but still have accurate readings.
The Process and Insight
The first step was to carry out the Design Development activities. During the kickoff meeting, it was important to confirm all inputs, requirements and specifications. The industrial designers created the initial concepts based on the known marketing directives, component layout, camera positioning and specification requirements. In collaboration with the mechanical engineers, they reviewed opportunities and potentials with the design team during concept creation. Foresight teams reviewed and down-selected to a single direction for refinement. At which point they refined the ID concepts and select a preferred direction for further engineering development.
The engineering teams worked with Foresight to define finalized outlines for cameras, lights and custom electronics. Engineering for Prototype requires all hands-on deck from design and engineering to create engineered solutions in preparation for prototyping. They create Mechanical Concept CAD files that break out the overall product shape into individual parts, finalize manufacturing processes and develop the order of assembly. This file can be used to create exploded views, show internal components in more context and verify approach for manufacturing. The next important step in preparation for prototype for engineering is creating a Functional Prototype CAD file to design detail interfaces between parts, mounting of internal components and assembly features required for a prototype build. This file can be used to build a prototype and get ballpark estimates for tooling costs, but it does not contain all detail required for actual tooling construction.
After creating the functional prototype files, the engineers and model makers were ready to for the Prototype Build. Build Prototypes were created to evaluate form, fit and function of the product before proceeding with Engineering for Manufacturing. CNC machined, sheet metal, cast urethane and other processes were used to build the prototype parts. Material robustness, performance and appearance will be similar to production but not identical. Functional Prototype Housing Units were produced and assembled with mechanical components and electrical components from Foresight Sports.
The Design Solution
Designed specifically for the rapidly growing golf and multisport simulation market, the GCHawk’s sleek, ergonomic form factor is elevated above the player to provide a new level of in-game freedom and flexibility. The design solution was to create a Quadrascopic high-speed camera system. The GC Hawk has a massive ball-capture range, that allows players of both right and left handedness to hit shots with absolute confidence that performance was precisely measured. It has advanced object-tracking capabilities, the GCHawk not only delivers true-to-life golf simulation, it also opens the door to a range of multisport game experiences. And just like its GC2 and GCQuad predecessors, the GCHawk captures shots from every stick in the bag – from the driver to the putter – for a complete, true-to-life game experience.
The Results
Foresight Sports grand debut of the GCHawk was at the 2018 PGA Merchandise Show. From baseball to basketball, from volleyball to hockey the GCHawk captures performance data with the precision and reliability to turn any sport into a true-to-life gaming experience.
The GCHawk was also optimized with the FSX software suite, the industry’s largest library of games and world-class courses – including The Links at Pebble Beach® and St Andrews® – all in stunning 4K resolution.
With its massive object tracking area and high-speed imaging capability, the GCHawk is the ultimate core technology not only for golf, but for practically every sport you can bring to the virtual game studio.