Introduction:
In the Youtube video “AI Learns To Play Golf” by b2studios, artificial intelligence (AI) takes a unique swing at the game of golf. This inventive project showcases the integration of AI into golf, blending technology with humor and creativity. This video was premiered Mar 5, 2024 and has already garnered 574,810 views and national media coverage.
The video features a sophisticated AI system designed to simulate golf swings using a neural network-powered ragdoll. The AI model is divided into four specialized neural networks, each focused on a different type of golf shot: driving, irons, chipping, and putting. This segmentation allows the AI to tackle the complexities of each shot type independently.
Driver AI Mechanics:
The driver AI focuses on maximizing swing power and distance. It calculates the direction for the perfect swing using vectors from the shoulder line to the club face and the right shoulder. By performing a cross product operation, it determines the swing plane. The AI receives rewards based on how closely the club’s velocity matches the target direction. To encourage powerful swings, the reward system is adjusted to emphasize speed and distance.
Iron AI Mechanics:
The iron AI adapts to ground-level shots, which require precision and control. Unlike driver shots, iron shots are typically made from the ground rather than an elevated tee. The reward system is slightly tweaked to account for the club’s height from the ground, rewarding the AI for keeping the club flush with the ground. This ensures accurate and controlled iron shots without turning the club into a lawnmower or a shovel.
Wedge AI Mechanics:
The wedge AI is designed for the short game, focusing on accuracy and control. To handle various course conditions, it is trained on uneven terrain. During training, the AI stands on a randomly generated platform for each shot, making it resilient to uneven terrain. The reward system emphasizes consistency and precision, encouraging the AI to focus on accurate shots.
Putting AI Mechanics:
The putting AI prioritizes accuracy and consistency, which are crucial for successful putts. The reward system rewards the AI for achieving the target speed and direction. Since putting is typically done on the flattest part of the golf course, the AI does not need to handle uneven terrain. The emphasis is on developing a precise and controlled putting stroke.
Performance and Observations:
- Driver AI:
- The driver AI achieves impressive distances, smashing golf balls roughly 210 yards. Despite unconventional techniques, such as shifting all its weight onto one leg and attempting to fly like Superman, the AI generates powerful drives. A slight pull in its shots can be easily compensated for by aiming slightly to the right.
- Iron AI:
- The iron AI demonstrates effective swings with a slight drag along the ground before striking the ball. Although this costs the AI some distance, it remains consistent enough to perform well. The AI pivots onto one foot and maintains this position until the ball is struck, resulting in solid iron shots.
- Wedge AI:
- The wedge AI shows versatility in different terrains, including flat surfaces, bunkers, trees, and even inside a clubhouse. Its technique mirrors real golfers, with a balanced stance and controlled swing. However, the AI often finishes with a comical face plant, adding humor to its otherwise impressive performance.
- Putting AI:
- The putting AI struggles with precision, following peculiar self-imposed rules that lead to less effective outcomes. Despite these challenges, it manages to perform adequately. The emphasis on consistency and control is evident, though its technique requires further refinement.
Conclusion:
This exploration of AI in golf by b2studios highlights the potential and challenges of integrating technology into sports. The video humorously underscores the learning curve involved in perfecting AI-driven golf techniques, showcasing the creative and playful side of AI development. While the driver and iron AI models achieve notable success, the wedge and putting AI models offer room for improvement, reflecting the ongoing evolution of AI in sports.
b2studios continues to inspire and entertain viewers, pushing the boundaries of what AI can achieve in the world of golf.
For a detailed and humorous exploration of AI in golf, watch the full video and read the comments here.