Technology in Golf Equipment Design and Development

Golf is a game with a long history and, as a result, it is rich in tradition. Yet, it has seen many changes and technology has often played a significant role in these changes. For most of the game's history technological changes were brought about by the appearance of new materials and fabrication methods. In the modern era of golf equipment, which began in the mid 1960's, progress has been driven not only by advances in materials and processes, but also by advances in such areas as computational power, information technology, software, biomechanics and measurement devices.

In this presentation key technologies and their contribution to improvements in golf equipment will be addressed. Emphasis will be placed on modern developments with some historical background. An overview of the golf equipment research and development process will be presented. Examples of technology applications will include new materials and processes, modeling and simulation, analysis and measurement of impact, shaft design, swing measurement and analysis, acoustics and golf ball design.