Calculating G Force of Golf Swing: Markus' Question

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around calculating the G force generated during a golf swing, specifically examining the angular velocity and radius involved in the calculation. Participants explore the implications of these calculations and consider experimental validation.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • Markus proposes a calculation for G force using the formula a = w^2 * r, initially arriving at a value of 16G based on an angular velocity of 26 rad/sec and a radius of 0.23m.
  • One participant points out that Markus incorrectly used the arm distance plus 6 cm as a diameter rather than a radius, suggesting that the shoulder is the center of the circular motion.
  • Markus recalculates using a corrected radius, leading to a new estimate of 30G, but expresses uncertainty about the accuracy of the initial angular velocity derived from a golfing website.
  • Another participant suggests conducting an experiment with a spring scale to validate the calculated G force, noting that a value of 30G seems high but not unreasonable.
  • A participant calculates the angular velocity based on a club speed of 100 mph, concluding that the numbers appear consistent with a radius of approximately 1.8m.
  • It is noted that golfers do not experience G force as acceleration but rather as force, with a discussion on the implications of a 30 Kgf force being reasonable for a fit individual.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the accuracy of the G force calculations, with some agreeing on the need for experimental validation while others question the high G force estimates. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the exact values and implications of the calculations.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions made about the radius and the conversion of club speed to angular velocity, as well as the dependency on the definitions of forces experienced by the golfer.

Markus78
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Hello,

Im trying to calculate the amount of G force generated from a golfswing for example. Let's say the swing is carried out with an acceleration of 26rad/sec, and that it is perfectly circular ;)

Im using formula a = w^2 *r; If my armls add 40cm and I want to know the G force 6cm below my grip...

a = 26^2 * 0.23 = about 155, divided into 9.82 meters/sec = 16G ,

That sounds a bit high to me so I would like to know if I am doing something wrong here...

Br
/Markus
 
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From what you have given, the only thing I see wrong is that you used your arm distance plus 6 cm as a diameter and not a radius. I assume that you are considering your shoulder as the center of the circle.

Your angular velocity (not acceleration) of 26 rad/sec is moving pretty quickly. It's almost 250 rpm.
 
Aa that's right, so the correct value should be more something like 26^2*0.46 then... that's more like 30G,

I got the value 26rad/sec from some golfing website, it might be wrong, but the pro's can reach a speed of 100mph at the tip of the club, not sure how to convert that into rad/sec though.

/Markus
 
It wouldn't be to tough to do an experiment to see how good your numbers are. A spring scale and a weight to mimic the club would do it.

30 G sounds a bit high, but not totally unreasonable.
 
100 mph = 160 km/h = 160*1000/3600 m/s = 45 m/s

Angular velocity = v/r where r is the total radius (length of arm + club). From the size of a normal person, r must be a bit less than 2m, say 1.8m

Angular velocity = 45/1.8 = 25 rad/sec.

So your numbers seem consistent.

The golfer doesn't actually feel the "G" value as an acceleration, he/she only feels the force. An acceleration of 30G on a 1Kg object gives a force of 30 Kgf. (I'm not a golfer but 1 Kg sounds too much for the mass of a golf club). A fit person can easily lift his/her body weight with his/her arms, so a 30 Kgf force seems quite reasonable.
 

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