Winner of the 2015-2016 Good Design Award
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Foresight Sports is at the forefront of golf knowledge and launch monitor engineering technology. Their passion for the sport directly translates to the development of products only conceivable by actual golfers, marking the swinging nuance needed to improve the drive of anyone who wants to step on the course. Foresight was looking to build upon and improve the previous GC2, a successful launch-monitoring device used by many pros, and found design specialists at DDSTUDIO to help conceptualize and capture the next generation of data driven golf swing analytics that would lead to the GCQuad™.
Project Background
Foresight Sports teamed up with DDSTUDIO to design their next generation professional-grade portable golf launch monitor system, the GCQuad™. To improve on a successful product, GC2, Foresight wanted to push the boundaries of innovation by designing a four camera system that captures the ball and the club at the point of impact delivering unprecedented ball and club performance data. DDSTUDIO embraced the opportunity to refine the previous design enclosure with integral features and functionality into an iconic product presence. The design needed to be compact and well protected while remaining ergonomic and easily portable. For a day out on the course with friends or coaching lessons, the product must provide instant results to efficiently fine-tune skills.
Project Opportunities and Objectives
Foresight Sports and DDSTUDIO GCQuad objectives:
– Portability, stability that fits in a golf travel bag.
– Aesthetics progression from the established GC2.
– Ruggedized to withstand strikes from a ball or club.
– Absolute stability on the ground during use.
– Visualization of information display from above.
– Accessibility for both right and left-handed golfers.
Process and Insight
We always use a human centered approach to link the product to an overall experience. This is combined with technology required to provide peak functionality. Considering the golf expertise of Foresight members, we had the necessary insight to construct a user-friendly device.
Like any skill-based activity, we knew the golfers wanted fast performance feedback. The momentary swing of a club must be thoroughly captured for a chain reaction of analytics and results. They also wanted the product to be easily maneuverable and able to stand close to clubs and ricocheted balls without possible destruction.
The GCQuad was to have an enhanced four-camera system for increased shot visibility and maximum feedback. We worked our way through over a dozen full-scale foam mockups to evaluate the potential size and core stability on any terrain. We conducted CAD studies of minimum angles for the camera lens and LEDs and fired virtual golf balls from all angles to study lens projection and pinpoint the proper location for the LCDs and buttons within the protective covers. We developed the appropriate viewing angle from the swinging stance perspective and worked out the angles of potential ball ricochets that could cause damage. The integration of an angled screen with a rear overhang area made the device easier to move out of arms way with improved portability to lift off the ground with one hand. We also developed a swing-out stand for stability (secured with a golf tee).
The data analytics collected all lead to the cloud. Golfers can hit the range and collect an array of information uploaded to the cloud and then review the results instantly.
The Solution and Results
While our Design team was refining the usability, appearance and brand identity, the Engineering team was evaluating the integration of rugged materials, internal sub structures and component assembly. We seamlessly packaged the new GCQuad™ 4 camera system with top of the line optic transmission, with solid LCD display, indicator LEDs, 6 buttons, I/O panel, and a detachable and rechargeable battery in an elegant enclosure.
Iconic, Functional, Durable, Dependable and Mobile, the GCQuad™ combines advanced technology with a beautiful design resolution. Golfers find delight in upping their game. The product instills confidence through refined but robust imagery, coupled with advanced sensor and image capturing systems. The entire research, design and engineering development teams (DDSTUDIO and Foresight) are proud of this exciting new offering.