MLM2PRO vs. Foresight GC3: A Data-Driven Comparison of Golf Shot Track

Introduction

An in-depth, data-driven analysis reveals the close alignment in accuracy and reliability between the Rapsodo MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3. The study compared key ball metrics across golfers of varying skill levels, demonstrating that both devices provide valuable insights for understanding shot metrics, improving gameplay, or enhancing the golfing experience through simulation. Regardless of the product chosen, golfers can expect similar performance and data-driven benefits.

Methodology

To conduct the comprehensive evaluation, we executed an extensive comparative study using a diverse set of golfers with varying skill levels. Shots were systematically captured under an array of environmental conditions, including indoors and outdoors, different club types, different lighting conditions, weather conditions, and time of day. For the Rapsodo MLM2PRO, all tests were conducted using the Rapsodo Precision Technology (RPT) balls. 

Statistical Analysis and Metrics

To quantify the alignment and accuracy of Ball Speed and Launch Angle metrics provided by MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3, we employed an assortment of statistical measures and metrics. These metrics encompassed absolute mean deviation, alignment rates within specific deviation ranges, and misalignment rates for deviations beyond certain thresholds.

Regression Analysis and Visualizations

Rapsodo used a meticulous approach to conduct a comprehensive evalution. By incorporating diverse participants, capturing shots across varying environmental conditions, and employing a combination of statistical measures, regression analysis, and visualizations, our intent was to offer a comprehensive and unbiased assessment of these golf shot tracking systems.

We utilized regression analysis to evaluate the linear correlation between measurements from MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3 for each metric. By computing regression metrics such as slope and intercept of the regression line, we gained insights into systematic differences or similarities between the two systems and provided a comprehensive understanding of their comparative performance.

For visualizations, Histograms were employed to visually represent the distribution of deviations between measurements obtained from both systems. Through graphical representation, we gained insights into the frequency and magnitude of variations, providing a clearer grasp of the systems' consistency and agreement.

Regression plots were generated to visually depict the linear correlation between measurements from MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3. These plots enabled us to visualize alignment or discrepancies in measurements across the entire range of values, thereby aiding in the identification of systematic trends or deviations.

Note that through the study, there were ocurrances for outliers, which have been omitted for visualization purposes. These outliers can often be attributed to uncontrolled factors or irregular circumstances that might influence measurements beyond the typical range of variation.

Results

Understanding Ball Parameters

Ball Speed: Ball Speed refers to the velocity at which the golf ball leaves the club face upon impact. Ball Speed directly influences the distance the ball will travel. Ball Speed is affected by various factors including club head speed, the quality of contact between the club face and the ball, and the angle of attack.

Launch Angle: Launch Angle represents the vertical angle at which the golf ball takes off from the club face. It impacts the ball's trajectory and the distance it will travel. A higher Launch Angle results in a higher ball flight and potentially greater carry distance. Launch Angle is influenced by factors such as club face loft, club head speed, angle of attack, and ball position in relation to the club face.

Back Spin: Backspin refers to the spin on a golf ball that causes it to rotate backward while it's in flight. When a golf ball is struck with a club, the club face imparts both velocity and spin to the ball. Backspin occurs when the top of the golf ball is spinning backward relative to the direction of its flight. This backward spin has several important effects on the ball's trajectory and behavior including lift, distance control and descent angle. 

Spin Axis: Spin axis, refers to the imaginary line around which a golf ball's spin is oriented as it travels through the air. When a golf ball is struck with a club face that is not perfectly square to the target line, it can result in side spin. Side spin is the rotational movement of the ball around an axis that is perpendicular to its direction of travel. This rotation causes the ball to curve in flight, this curvature usually referred as fade/slice, draw/hook depending on its tilt direction. 

Ball Speed Comparison

Table 4 . Ball Speed Deviation between MLM2PRO and GC3

Absolute Mean Deviation (m/s)	Deviation Under 0.27 m/s (%)	Deviation Between 0.27 and 1 m/s (%)	Deviation Between 1 and 2.5 m/s  (%)	Deviation Between 2.5 and 5 ms  (%)	Deviation Above 5 m/s (%)
0.37	51.91	42.56	4.95	0.24	0.34

Ball Speed directly impacts the distance and trajectory of the golf ball upon impact with the club face. Our examination of the Ball Speed measurements from both MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3 reveals the alignment and deviations across different ranges.

The chosen deviation categories for Ball Speed analysis were carefully selected to comprehensively assess alignment and disparities between MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3 measurements. Categories like "Deviation Under 0.27 m/s" captured precision with MLM2PRO's 51.91% alignment. "Deviation Between 0.27 and 1 m/s" reflected consistency, as MLM2PRO achieved 42.56% alignment. The range "1 to 2.5 m/s" showcased reliability with 4.95% alignment. For substantial variations, "2.5 to 5 m/s" demonstrated precision at 0.24% alignment. Finally, "Above 5 m/s" evaluated extreme deviations with MLM2PRO's 0.34% alignment. These categories strategically covered a spectrum of deviations, enhancing insights into MLM2PRO's performance against Foresight GC3.

Absolute Mean Deviation (m/s): MLM2PRO demonstrated alignment with an absolute mean deviation of 0.37 m/s, indicating its accuracy in measuring Ball Speed and its consistency in capturing this critical parameter.

Deviation Under 0.27 m/s: Remarkably, MLM2PRO showcased a 51.91% alignment rate in capturing deviations under 0.27 m/s. This underscores its precision in tracking Ball Speed variations with minimal discrepancies.

Deviation Between 0.27 and 1 m/s: Within this range, MLM2PRO maintained alignment with an impressive 42.56% rate, further confirming its capability to accurately measure Ball Speed variations within this interval.

Deviation Between 1 and 2.5 m/s: As Ball Speed deviations extended to this range, MLM2PRO's alignment persisted at a 4.95% rate, offering reliable data for shots falling within these increments.

Deviation Between 2.5 and 5 m/s: Even for larger deviations, MLM2PRO exhibited alignment, achieving a 0.24% alignment rate within this range.

Deviation Above 5 m/s: For substantial deviations, MLM2PRO's alignment remained steadfast, yielding a minimal 0.34% misalignment rate.

This histogram illustrates the distribution of deviations between Ball Speed measurements from Foresight GC3 and MLM2PRO. It provides insights into the frequency and extent of variations, allowing us to understand the consistency and agreement between the two systems.

Overlaying the histograms of Ball Speed measurements from both systems, this visualization showcases the alignment or discrepancies in their data across the entire range of values.

Displaying a scatter plot with a regression line, this plot helps us assess the linear correlation between Ball Speed measurements of Foresight GC3 and MLM2PRO. It quantifies the systematic differences or similarities between the measurements.

This plot highlights the differences between Ball Speed measurements of Foresight GC3 and MLM2PRO against the predicted values from the regression model. It reveals any patterns or trends in the residuals, aiding in identifying systematic biases or errors.

Launch Angle Comparison

Table 5 . Launch Angle Deviation between MLM2PRO and GC3

Absolute Mean Deviation (Degrees)	Deviation Under 0.5 Degrees (%)	Deviation Between 0.5 and 1.0 Degree (%)	Deviation Between 1.0 and 2.5 Degrees  (%)	Deviation Between 2.5 and 5 Degrees  (%)	Deviation Above 5 Degrees (%)
1.13	30.67	41.42	35.39	4.46	1.57

Analyzing the Launch Angle data provided insights into the alignment of MLM2PRO:

The chosen deviation categories for Launch Angle analysis were thoughtfully selected to thoroughly assess alignment and discrepancies between MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3 measurements. "Deviation Under 0.5 Degrees" captures precision in measuring subtle variations critical for shot accuracy. "Deviation Between 0.5 and 1.0 Degree" evaluates consistency in detecting small to moderate deviations affecting shot trajectory. "Deviation Between 1.0 and 2.5 Degrees" assesses reliability in measuring moderate variations influencing trajectory. "Deviation Between 2.5 and 5 Degrees" gauges accuracy in capturing larger deviations with significant shot outcome impact. "Deviation Above 5 Degrees" scrutinizes the measurement capabilities for extreme deviations leading to substantial changes in shot direction. In sum, these categories provide a comprehensive perspective on Launch Angle measurement alignment and differences, illuminating MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3's performance in diverse deviation scenarios.

Absolute Mean Deviation (Degrees): MLM2PRO exhibited alignment with an absolute mean deviation of 1.13, demonstrating its accuracy in measuring Launch Angle.

Deviation Under 0.5 Degrees: MLM2PRO achieved a 30.67% alignment rate in capturing deviations under 0.5 degrees, showcasing its capability to accurately measure Launch Angle with minimal discrepancies.

Deviation Between 0.5 and 1.0 Degrees: Within this range, MLM2PRO demonstrated alignment with a 41.42% rate, indicating its capability to measure Launch Angle variations within this interval.

Deviation Between 1.0 and 2.5 Degrees: MLM2PRO extended its alignment to deviations between 1.0 and 2.5 degrees, achieving a 35.39% alignment rate, providing reliable data for this range.

Deviation Between 2.5 and 5 Degrees: For deviations within this range, MLM2PRO maintained alignment with a 4.46% rate.

Deviation Above 5 Degrees: Even for larger deviations, MLM2PRO maintained alignment, yielding a minimal 1.57% misalignment rate.

We present four plots to visually depict the Launch Angle analysis:

This histogram illustrates the distribution of deviations between Launch Angle measurements from Foresight GC3 and MLM2PRO. It provides insights into the frequency and extent of variations, allowing us to understand the consistency and agreement between the two systems.

Overlaying the histograms of Launch Angle measurements from both systems, this visualization showcases the alignment or discrepancies in their data across the entire range of values.

Displaying a scatter plot with a regression line, this plot helps us assess the linear correlation between Launch Angle measurements of Foresight GC3 and MLM2PRO. It quantifies the systematic differences or similarities between them.

This plot highlights the differences between Launch Angle measurements of Foresight GC3 and MLM2PRO against the predicted values from the algorithm. It reveals any patterns or trends in the residuals, aiding in identifying systematic biases or errors.

Back Spin Comparison

Table 4 . Back Spin Deviation between MLM2PRO and GC3

Absolute Mean Deviation (RPM)	Deviation Under 100 RPM  (%)	Deviation Between 100 and 150 RPM (%)	Deviation Between 150 and 250 RPM  (%)	Deviation Between 250 and 500 RPM (%)	Deviation Above 500 RPM (%)
69.28	79.90	11.63	5.41	2.44	0.63

The chosen deviation categories for Back Spin analysis offer a nuanced perspective on the alignment and variations between MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3 measurements.

The results of Back Spin analysis provide valuable insights into the alignment and variations between MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3 measurements:

Absolute Mean Deviation (RPM): This value, 69.28 RPM, represents the average amount by which the back spin values deviate from their mean value, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). It's a measure of the overall variability or dispersion of the back spin values around their mean.

Deviation Under 100 RPM: In this category, both systems exhibit a notable 79.90% alignment. MLM2PRO showcases its precision in measuring Back Spin within this narrow range, contributing to shot accuracy.

Deviation Between 100 and 150 RPM: MLM2PRO maintains its alignment at 11.63% within this slightly broader range. This reflects its consistent capability in capturing Back Spin deviations that can influence shot behavior.

Deviation Between 150 and 250 RPM: Both systems exhibit alignment in this category, with MLM2PRO aligning at 5.41%. It emphasizes MLM2PRO's proficiency in capturing Back Spin variations that have a discernible impact on ball trajectory and distance.

Deviation Between 250 and 500 RPM: Here, MLM2PRO showcases alignment at 2.44. This demonstrates its accuracy in measuring Back Spin deviations that substantially affect shot characteristics.

Deviation Above 500 RPM: Both systems demonstrate alignment, albeit with a minimal value. Even for extreme deviations, MLM2PRO maintains precision, underscoring its capacity to capture significant Back Spin variations.

These results collectively highlight MLM2PRO's adeptness in measuring Back Spin deviations across various ranges, providing golfers with essential data to enhance their shot control and optimize performance on the course.

Following plots provide a data-rich perspective on the alignment and discrepancies in Back Spin measurements between MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3. By analyzing these visual representations, we gain a deeper understanding of their comparative performance in measuring one of the fundamental aspects of golf shots.

This plot offers a visual representation of the deviation distribution between MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3 in Back Spin measurements. By comparing the two systems' recorded values, we gain insight into their alignment and disparities across a spectrum of spin deviations. The histogram showcases the frequency and spread of these differences, shedding light on the consistency and accuracy of both systems in measuring Back Spin.

This histogram encapsulates the distributions of Back Spin values obtained from both MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3. It provides a comprehensive view of the entire dataset, allowing us to assess their respective measurement ranges and tendencies. By overlaying the distributions, we discern similarities and variations in spin measurements, contributing to our understanding of how each system captures and represents Back Spin data.

The regression plot establishes a mathematical relationship between Back Spin measurements of MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3. This linear representation aids in understanding how closely the measurements align, revealing any systematic discrepancies or trends. A well-fitted regression line indicates a strong correlation, while deviations from the line unveil differences in measurement performance between the systems.

The residual plot illustrates the difference between observed Back Spin measurements and the corresponding values predicted by the regression line. It helps us identify patterns in the deviations between MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3. A random scattering of points around the centerline suggests unbiased measurements, while specific patterns may indicate consistent biases in measurement

Spin Axis Comparison

Table 4 . Spin Axis Deviation between MLM2PRO and GC3

Absolute Mean Deviation (Degree)	Deviation Under 2 Degree  (%)	Deviation Between 2 and 4 Degrees (%)	Deviation Between 4 and 6 Degrees  (%)	Deviation Above 6 Degree (%)	Correct Sign Percentage  (%)
1.44	77.86	18.93	3.2	0	99.94

The deviation categories for Spin Axis analysis were thoughtfully selected to comprehensively evaluate the alignment and variations between MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3 measurements.

Absolute Mean Deviation: The "Absolute Mean Deviation" of 1.44 degrees signifies the average difference between Spin Axis measurements of MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3. It offers an overall perspective on the alignment and disparities in their measurements.

Deviation Under 2 Degrees: Within this category, both systems demonstrate an alignment of 77.86%. This highlights their precision in capturing subtle Spin Axis variations, contributing to accurate shot analysis.

Deviation Between 2 and 4 Degrees: In this range, both systems maintain alignment at 18.93%, showcasing their consistent performance in measuring moderate Spin Axis deviations, critical for understanding shot behavior.

Deviation Between 4 and 6 Degrees: With an alignment of 3.2% within this category, MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3 exhibit proficiency in capturing variations that significantly influence ball flight dynamics.

Deviation Above 6 Degrees: Extreme deviations have minimal alignment, yet the category evaluates the systems' capability in measuring critical Spin Axis variations that impact shot outcomes.

Correct Sign Percentage: MLM2PRO achieves an impressive 99.94% alignment in determining the correct sign of the Spin Axis. This highlights its exceptional accuracy in both measuring deviations and identifying their direction.

These results collectively provide comprehensive insights into the performance of MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3 in capturing Spin Axis measurements, enhancing our understanding of their comparative proficiency in assessing spin-related shot dynamics.

Following plots collectively provide a data-driven visualization of the alignment and variations in Spin Axis measurements between MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3. Analyzing these visual representations helps us delve deeper into their comparative performance in measuring Spin Axis, a fundamental aspect of understanding shot characteristics.

This histogram depicts the distribution of deviations between Spin Axis measurements obtained from MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3. The plot offers a visual representation of the alignment and disparities in spin measurements. By observing the frequency and spread of deviations, we gain insights into the systems' agreement and differences across a spectrum of Spin Axis values.

This histogram overlays the Spin Axis values distributions from both MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3. It provides a comprehensive view of their measurement ranges and tendencies. By comparing the distributions, we identify areas of similarity and divergence, contributing to our understanding of how each system captures and presents Spin Axis data.

The regression plot establishes a mathematical relationship between Spin Axis measurements of MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3. The plotted regression line indicates the alignment and correlation between the two systems' measurements. A well-fitted line signifies strong agreement, while deviations from the line reveal differences in measurement performance and potential biases.

The residual plot showcases the differences between observed Spin Axis measurements and those predicted by the regression line. Patterns in the scatter plot indicate systematic discrepancies between MLM2PRO and Foresight GC3. A balanced scattering of points around the centerline signifies unbiased measurements, while patterns may suggest consistent measurement disparities.

The higher prevalence of negative spin axes compared to positive ones can likely be attributed to the fact that our test players are predominantly right-handed. This handedness could naturally lead to a greater generation of spin in the negative axis direction during play.

Conclusion

For more information on Rapsodo’s technology, visit Rapsodo.co.uk.

MLM2PRO vs. Foresight GC3: A Data-Driven Comparison of Golf Shot Tracking and Ball Metrics

Introduction

Methodology

Results

Conclusion

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