PBC Linear collaborated with RoboPutt, a golf robot manufacturer, on a design for an interactive putting robot that requires a sophisticated motion control system to consistently mimic a golfer’s putt. The idea was simple, create a vending-machine-style robot that can help improve a golfer’s putting utilizing instructional videos, user participation and muscle memory to firmly ingrain these beneficial practices into the minds and bodies of the participants.
The RoboPutt design team, led by RoboPutt CEO Joseph Sery, needed a linear motion system with high rigidity, smooth/consistent travel and reliability. Since the system relied on muscle memory to teach participants, smooth and consistent motion was crucial. Any noticeable variance in the swing would defeat the purpose of the kiosk. Rigidity was also critical due to the extended cantilevered design of the putting assembly. Any bending or flexing of the linear guide would produce negative or inconsistent results. The final important factor to consider was reliability. Each RoboPutt kiosk needed to be self-sustainable since in many cases the kiosk could be hundreds of miles away from technical support. Therefore, RoboPutt required linear motion technology that performed well without the burden of preventative maintenance.
Based on the design requirements, PBC Linear recommended their Integral-V™ Technology (IVT) linear guides for adjustment. IVT products use cam rollers to smoothly glide along the races; which aids in emulating the putting stroke of a golfer. Integral-V linear guides are designed to be rigid, precise and cost effective.
Using hardened steel races directly embedded into precision machined structural aluminum framing, IVT products streamline assembly by eliminating fasteners and unnecessary mounting components, reducing cost, weight and assembly time. IVT rail is SIMO™ machined to ensure it holds tight tolerances and rigidity throughout the length of the rail. The end result was a streamlined motion control assembly that simulated the smooth and consistent putting motion of each golfer.
The RoboPutt kiosk has been shown to be one of the best tools for improving a golfer’s putting score since the eraser. The putting assembly uses the precise travel of the linear guides to build muscle memory so the golfer can learn to consistently reproduce a winning swing every time. Using PBC Linear’s design, RoboPutt was able to reduce their motion control assembly by 30% and helped to maintain an overall ergonomic and lightweight putting experience.
Configure & Quote
