IE20040819U1 - Ball spin measurement method and apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

ABSTRACT A method and apparatus for measuring spin characteristics of a moving object such as a golf ball (1) is disclosed. The object includes one or more detectable marks (2) or object features. Event characteristics associated with the entry, passage or exit of the marks (2) or object features are detected or recorded at a reference or boundary. The marking may be physically effected or achieved by heating a region on the surface of the object to a detectably different temperature.

Description

OPEN TO PUBLIC INSPECTION UNDER sacrum 23 AND RULE 23 ‘ BALL SPIN M_E_ASUREMENT METHOD AND APPARATUS The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for measuring the spin movement characteristics of a moving ball. The invention relates more specifically, but not exclusively, to a method and apparatus for measuring the spin movement characteristics of a golf ball which has been struck by a golf club.

When a golf ball is struck by a golf club, a rotational motion is usually transmitted to the ball. in the case of a golf ball being perfectly struck by a club such as a driver, the lofted club face imparts a significant back spin to the ball, causing it to rotate about a horizontal axis. If the ball is unevenly struck, as frequently occurs, an additional component of side spin is imparted and the ball rotates about a resultant axis which is inclined to the horizontal and which is frequently understood by technical golf players in relation to its back spin and side spin components. The ball will not usually display any significant rifle spin, i.e. rotation about an axis in the direction of travel. In practice. over the common ranges of golf ball shots struck with driver or low wood clubs, the axis of rotation is usually within an angle of about :10° to the horizontal, the direction of slope depending on the rotational direction of the component of side spin. Side spin is important in the game of golf because it can cause significant lateral movement during the flight of the ball. If the resultant axis is tilted down to the right, the ball will drift to the right during flight displaying what is commonly called ‘slice’ or ‘fade’ for right handed players, depending on whether the motion is unintentional or intentional, respectively. Tilting down to the left will result in the ball drifting to the left during flight, displaying what is commonly called ‘hook’ or ‘draw’ for right handed players, again depending on whether the motion is unintentional or intentional, respectively. The directions are reversed for left handed players.

Although side spin is of great importance in a golf shot, it has traditionally been found difficult to measure for various reasons. Firstly, it is just one component of a high energy compound movement. Secondly, it is only a very small part of this compound movement.

The total spin energy of a ball is usually much less than 1% of its linear kinetic energy and the side spin energy is just a small part of the total spin energy.

For example, with a typical drive shot with a launch speed of 65 m/s and backspin rate of 50 RPS, the side spin may vary from zero up to about 10 RPS for a badly sliced or hooked shot. In this instance. the ball will travel 1.3 m before it executes one complete revolution of backspin. During this period, which occurs over just 20 ms, the ball will execute a sidespin component movement varying from zero to about 72°, depending on how badly the shot is sliced or hooked.

The prior art has produced various devices which claim to measure the spin movement characteristics of a golf ball which has been struck by a golf club.

Sullivan et al., US 4,138,387; Gobush et al., US 5,471,383; Lutz et al., 6,592,465 and Rankin, US 20040030527, all disclose devices which are stated to measure spin movement characteristics of a golf ball. These devices employ one or more high-speed cameras to capture a plurality of two-dimensional images of a marked moving ball.

Changes in the two-dimensional positions of the marks are analysed by computers to determine the spin movement characteristics.

Although these devices have been found suitable for measuring spin characteristics in a laboratory type environment, they are not generally suitable for use by ordinary golfers due to the high cost and bulk of the apparatus and to the difficulties in setting-up, calibrating and maintaining them. The present invention overcomes these deficiencies of the prior art.

The invention will now be described more particularly with reference to the accompanying drawings.

In the drawings: Figure 1 shows an isometric view of a ball with mutually orthogonal axes X-X, Y-Y and Z-Z passing through its centre. The ball is moving in a linear direction, parallel to axis X-X and in the direction indicated by the arrow head. The ball is also spinning about Y-Y, in an anticlockwise direction as viewed in the figure.

Figure 2 shows several views of a ball which is spinning and moving linearly. View (i) represents a front view of the ball shown in Figure 1, as viewed along direction X-X. View (iii) represents a view similar to view (i), except that in this instance the ball is spinning about an axis A-A, which is in the same plane as Y-Y and Z-Z. A-A also passes through the centre of the ball, but is tilted at an angle to Y-Y. View (v) is similar to view (iii), except IE 040819 that in this instance A-A is tilted in the reverse direction. The axes Y-Y and A-A are shown as dashed lines where they pass through the interior of the ball. Views (ii), (iv) and (vi) represent side views of the same balls shown in views (i), (iii) and (v), respectively, viewed along direction Y-Y from left to right in the figure. Views (iv) and (vi) also show the locus of a point on the surface of the ball, which commences at the intersection of Y-Y and the surface, as the ball rotates through a quarter turn about A-A.

Figure 3 shows side views of a ball similar to that shown in Figure 2. The ball is provided with an oblong mark on its surface, which is symmetrically disposed about an imaginary point corresponding to the point where the Y-Y axis intersects the surface prior to the ball being struck. This imaginary point is also shown in the views. Figures 3 (i), 3 (ii) and 3 (iii) show progressive views of a ball which is struck from a stationary position and which executes a 45° and 90° backspin without any sidespin component. Figures 3 (iv). 3 (v) and 3 (vi) show progressive views of a ball which is struck from a stationary position and which executes a 45° and 90° backspin with a slicing sidespin component. Figures 3 (vii), 3 (viii) and 3 (ix) show progressive views of a ball which is struck from a stationary position and which executes a 45° and 90° backspin with a hooking sidespin component.

Each view also shows the distance B from the leading edge of the ball to the leading edge of the oblong mark, the distance C from the leading edge of the oblong mark to the trailing edge of the oblong mark, and the distance D from the trailing edge of the oblong mark to the trailing edge of the ball.

Figure 4 shows a diagrammatic plan view of an apparatus for measuring the spin characteristics of a golf ball struck by a club. The view shows the initial starting position of the ball at A, the direction of linear movement of the ball AB, and the positions H, I, J and K as the various positions of the ball and its circular marks are detected by a detection means at D or across line DE. The view also shows a marking means M, marking beam L and a second detection means at F or across line FG.

Figure 5 (a) shows a diagrammatic plan view of a detection means, such as that shown at D in Figure 4, but on a larger scale. The detection means is a single element infrared pyroelectric sensor with a screening means, filter means and lens means.

Figure 5 (b) shows a similar view to Figure 5 (a), but where the detection means is a dual element infrared pyroelectric sensor.

Referring now to Figure 1, and views (i) and (ii) of Figure 2, these show a ball with mutually orthogonal axes X-X, Y-Y and Z-Z passing through its centre. The ball is moving parallel to X-X in the direction indicated by the arrow head. The ball is also spinning about Y-Y, in an anticlockwise direction as viewed in the figures. The conditions may be equated to the launch of a typical golf shot which has been hit without sidespin. Axis Y-Y is horizontal and axis X-X close to horizontal, but tilted up by the launch angle. Axis Z-Z is close to vertical, but tilted back orthogonal to X-X. The ball displays significant backspin about Y-Y, principally resulting from the lofted face of the club hitting the ball below centre.

The ball displays no sidespin about Z-Z and no rifle spin about X-X.

A view of the moving ball, along direction Y-Y, will show no movement of the point on the surface which intersects axis Y-Y, although the surrounding surface region will rotate about the point. Thus an observer or sensing means monitoring view (ii) of Figure 2 from direction Y-Y, would find that the point remains at the centre position of the ball throughout the ba||'s flight.

Referring now to views (iii) and (iv) of Figure 2, these show a ball which is rotating about a tilted axis A-A, as would occur with a ball with a clockwise sidespin component, as seen in plan view, causing it to veer to the right. This type of shot is referred to as a ‘sliced’ shot when executed by a right handed golfer. The original point on the surface, intersected by the Y-Y axis, will now orbit the point on the surface intersected by the axis of rotation A-A, describing a circular locus. View (iv) shows the locus which occurs over the first quarter turn of the ball about axis A-A. It can be seen that the movement is initially backwards and then gradually downwards, relative to the outline perimeter of the ball.

Referring now to views (v) and (vi) of Figure 2, these show a ball which is rotating about an axis A-A which is tilted in the reverse direction of that shown in views (iii) and (iv), as would occur with a ball with an anticlockwise sidespin component, as seen in plan view, causing it to veer to the left. This type of shot is referred to as a ‘hooked’ shot when executed by a right handed golfer. The original point on the surface, intersected by the Y- Y axis, will again orbit the point on the surface intersected by the axis of rotation A-A, describing a circular locus. View (vi) shows the locus which occurs over the first quarter turn of the ball about axis A-A. It can be seen that the movement is initially forwards and then gradually upwards relative to the outline perimeter of the ball.

IE 040319 It can be seen from the above that the view of the original point, as seen by an observer or sensing means in side view, will move in a unique way for each combination of back spin and side spin. In one example of the invention, the ball is provided with one or more marks which allow this movement to be measured by a sensing means.

One aspect of the invention relates to an insight that the sidespin and backspin characteristics of a ball can be determined in a substantially one dimensional manner where a mark on a moving ball is monitored in one direction, such as a side view direction.

Figure 3 shows side views of a ball similar to that shown in Figure 2. The ball is provided with an oblong mark on its surface, which is symmetrically disposed about an imaginary point corresponding to the point where the Y-Y axis intersects the surface prior to the ball being struck. The views also show the imaginary mark. Figures 3 (i), 3 (ii) and 3 (iii) show progressive views of a ball which is struck from a stationary position and which executes a 45° and 90° backspin without any sidespin component. Figures 3 (iv), 3 (v) and 3 (vi) show progressive views of a ball which is struck from a stationary position and which executes a 45° and 90° backspin with a slicing sidespin component. Figures 3 (vii), 3 (viii) and 3 (ix) show progressive views of a ball which is struck from a stationary position and which executes a 45° and 90° backspin with a hooking sidespin component.

Each view also shows the distance B from the leading edge of the ball to the leading edge of the oblong mark, the distance C from the leading edge of the oblong mark to the trailing edge of the oblong mark, and the distance D from the trailing edge of the oblong mark to the trailing edge of the ball.

It will be appreciated from Figure 3 that a ball without side spin will be characterised by equal distances B and D, since the axis of rotation remains at the centre of the perimeter as viewed from the side. Where a ball displays slicing sidespin, distance B will be greater than distance D, the difference increasing for increasing degrees of sidespin. Similarly, where a ball display hooking sidespin, distance B will be less than distance D, the difference increasing for increasing degrees of sidespin. lEo./.0919 It will also be appreciated that the amount of back spin which occurs over the first quarter turn is directly related to distance C, which gradually increases as the ball rotates. Where a determination is made of the amount of back spin which occurs over a specific period of time, geometric allowance must be made for the curved surface of the ball, which alters the distances in a known consistent manner.

An embodiment of the invention shall now be described, by way of example.

Referring now to Figure 4, this shows a diagrammatic plan view of an apparatus for measuring the spin characteristics of a golf ball struck by a club. The ball is positioned on an artificial turf, or on a tee above the artificial turf, and the player strikes the ball in a direction from left to right, as viewed in the figure. The view shows the initial starting position of the ball at A, and the direction of linear movement of the ball BC when the ball has been struck.

The marking on the surface of the ball is a single oblong mark, such as that shown in Figure 3, and is created by heating the surface while the ball is in a stationary position prior to being struck. It shall henceforth be referred to as the heat mark. The heat mark is applied shortly before the strike such that there is insufficient time for appreciable side conduction of heat outwards from its perimeter. It is remote from that portion of the ball which is contacted by the face of the club. The heat used in creating the heat mark is provided by a radiated beam focused on the surface of the ball with a sharply defined perimeter. The heat mark is not visible, but radiates heat which can be detected by heat sensing means. Figure 4 shows the heating means at M and the radiated heating beam at L.

The use of a heat mark has several advantages. Firstly, it allows use of standard golf balls. This is convenient for the player and also allows all types of balls to be used with the apparatus. Secondly, it obviates the need for the player to position the ball in a particular orientation prior to the shot, as would be necessary with a ball with permanent marks. This also obviates the possibility of the ball being incorrectly positioned. Thirdly, it obviates the use of a ball which is always struck about a single equator. Continued striking of a ball about a single equator could give rise to selective progressive breakdown or distortion which would not occur in real play.

} Since the radiation exchange between two bodies at different temperatures is related to the difference in the fourth power of the absolute temperatures of the two bodies, it is desirable to provide a relatively high heat mark temperature. This temperature will be limited by various constraints, including safety considerations and the maximum temperature to which the surface of the ball may be raised without being damaged. The materials comprising the surface of a golf ball typically have melting temperature around 150° C and small portions of the surface may be heating to temperatures a little below the melting temperature for short periods without damaging the ball.

In one embodiment of the invention, the apparatus is operable to detect the commencement of the player’s swing, or the presence of the player in the swing position, and switches on the beam which heats the heat mark. This will allow about two seconds or more to raise the heat mark to the required temperature. The apparatus may also be provided with a remote heat sensor which monitors the temperature of the heat mark and modulates the beam to prevent the temperature exceeding the required temperature. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the apparatus is operable to detect the rapid downswing of the club head in the region where the downswing takes place. A thin uppermost surface region of the ball is very rapidly heated when the apparatus senses this rapid downswing. The ball is struck very quickly after this heating takes place and the required heat mark detection takes place before the thin heated surface cools appreciably.

This has several safety advantages. First, the temperature of the heat mark decays rapidly and will have returned to near ambient temperature it touched shortly after being heated. Second, the heat capacity of the shallow heat mark is small and unlikely to cause injury even if touched shortly after being heated. Third, since the heat source is triggered by the rapidly moving club head, this obviates the possibility of the heat source or the ball being touched during the heating process or immediately aftenlvards.

The apparatus is provided with a first heat detector means at D, which is operable to detect the presence, or entry or exit, of the heat mark on the moving ball across a vertical band in a vertical plane passing through DE. DE is a horizontal line which is at right angles to the intended direction of travel of the ball. it is positioned about 20 mm beyond the ball such that it detects the heat mark after the ball departs from the club face and is no longer being accelerated.

Q.) ‘J! IE 040819 The heat detector is set a sufficient distance from the flight path of the ball and club to obviate the risk of being struck with the ball or club and to provide minimal visual obtrusiveness for the player. However, within this constraint, the heat detector is positioned as close as possible to the flight path of the ball, since the radiated signal strength decreases in proportion to the inverse of the square of the distance between the heat mark and the detector. The detector may be protected with deflectors or guards to prevent damage from poorly hit shots.

Although not shown in the figure, the apparatus is also provided with an electromagnetic beam emitter means and receiver means, across a vertical band in a vertical plane passing through DE. The beam may be a visible light beam and the device shall be referred to as the first light detector means. The first light detector means is operable to detect any partial interruption of the light beam or restoration to its interrupted status and is accordingly operable to detect the leading edge and trailing edge of the ball passing through the vertically banded beam.

Figure 4 shows four successive positions of the ball, H, l, J and K, as it and its heat mark are detected by the first light detector means and first heat detector means. Position H represents the position where the leading edge of the ball first contacts the light detector means. Position I represents the position where the leading edge of the heat mark is detected by the heat detector means. Position J represents the position where the trailing end of the heat mark is detected by the heat detector means. Position K represents the position where the trailing edge of the ball departs the vertically banded light beam and is detected by the light detector means.

The apparatus is also provided with a second light detector means and heat detector means across line FG. FG is a horizontal line which is at right angles to the intended direction of travel of the ball. It is positioned about 150 mm beyond line DE, allowing the ball to execute about 45° of backspin where a typical drive backspin rate of 50 RPS occurs. The heat mark and leading and trailing edges of the ball are detected similarly to that described for the first light detector means and first heat detector means.

The apparatus is provided with a controller means which is operable to record the times when each detection event occurs. Since the ball is travelling at constant speed as it passes through and between the two detection zones, this allows the controller means to IE 040319 determine distances equivalent to B, C and D, as shown in Figure 3, and in turn to determine the sidespin and backspin characteristics of the ball.

The controller means is operable to make necessary adjustments to the distances B, C and D arising from the curvature of the surface of the ball, since the geometry is a hemisphere of known diameter. The controller means is also operable to make necessary adjustments for any differences in the response delays of the light detectors and the heat detectors. The magnitude of any such differences can be determined by trial and error across the range of conditions which might be encountered.

The controller means may additionally comprise an artificial neural-type intelligence means, which has been previously trained with information relating to a wide range of ball spin movement characteristics. By artificial neural-type intelligence means is meant, determination or problem solving means, which operates in a manner which has similarities to human determination or problem solving. in particular, this type of determination of problem solving relates to previously learned experience from which a solution can be determined or interpolated when a new problem or situation arises. Where an artificial neural-type intelligence means is used, it will usually be advantageous to pre- process some or all of the primary light detector and heat detector signals before presenting them to the neural means and weigh their relative importance to particular types of outputs. This pre-processing stage may be carried out by conventional electronic processing methods and devices.

Optionally, if the apparatus is operable to determine the time of impact, or an event close to it, the first light detector means and first heat detector means may be omitted and an allowance made for the acceleration of the ball from the start position. This will be simpler but may prove less accurate than the method earlier described.

Optionally, the apparatus may be provided with more than two spaced apart sets of light detector means and heat detector means. This can provide a greater degree of accuracy over a wider range of speeds and rates of backspins and can allow the controller to select a difference in backspin readings closer to 45° than would otherwise be the case. It also potentially allows the controller to identify very high backspin conditions where the backspin might otherwise have problematically exceeded 90°.

[E 0408 Figure 5 (a) shows a diagrammatic plan view of a detector means. such as that shown at D in Figure 4, but on a larger scale. The detector means comprises a single element infrared pyroelectric sensor with a screening means, filter means and focusing means.

Figure 5 (b) shows a similar view to Figure 5 (a), but where the sensor is a dual element infrared pyroelectric sensor, which is the preferred device.

Particular care must be taken in the selection of heat detector means due to the high speed of the ball and consequent short period over which the heat detector means is subject to the radiation signal. A further aspect of the invention relates to an insight that the signals may be better measured by devices which measure the rate of change of temperature rather than attempt to measure the temperature itself. Devices measuring the rate of change of temperature include pyroelectic sensors and bolometers.

Pyroelectric sensors measure changes in infrared radiation emitted by warm objects and their electrical output is a function of the rate of change in temperature. The entry and departure of the heat mark across the field of view of the heat sensor provides a very high rate of change. and a fast response model should be chosen. in a dual element pyroelectric sensor, the sensing elements are typically connected in series opposition such that their outputs subtract one from the other. Any signal common to both elements is advantageously cancelled in this arrangement. Where a relatively warm object, such as the heat mark, passes in front of the sensor. it first activates one of the elements and then the other, while background signals, vibration and the effects of ambient temperature affect both elements simultaneously and are thereby cancelled. The use of a differential signal also causes the output to be effectively amplified. The physical arrangement of the two elements allows for maximum sensitivity along a single directional axis, this being the X-X directional axis in the preferred arrangement.

Referring now to Figure 5 (b), the sensor is shown at D with two side-by-side elements at E. A screening means, comprising an array of slotted screens, A, permit infrared radiation, which is substantially orthogonal to the intended direction of ball flight. to reach the elements E. The slots in the screens are elongate with their narrow dimension in a horizontal orientation and their long dimension in a vertical orientation. The narrow dimension is made sufficiently small such that the edges of the infrared radiation falling on the sensor element are adequately sharp, yet of a sufficiently width such that adequate infrared radiation reaches the sensor element to trigger the signal. The edges of the L» on IE 0403 infrared radiation may also be sharpened by increasing the front—to-back depth of the screening means. This can be achieved without significantly reducing the amount of infrared radiation which reaches the sensor element.

The heat detector means may be provided with a filter B which preferentially transmits radiation from the heat mark but minimises unwanted wavelengths, such as those occurring from visible light. The filter may intercept the beams F and G at any convenience position in the heat detector means. The filter range is matched to the range of wavelengths which are preferentially emitted at the temperature range of the heat mark on the ball surface.

The heat detector means may be provided with a focusing means B which concentrates radiation entering the elongate slots onto the relatively small elements of the sensor. The focusing means may comprise a vertical Fresnel type lens comprised of a polymer material which does not significantly attenuate the infrared radiation. For example, the vertical Fresnel type lens may comprise a surface with an array of closely spaced parallel prisms, with the outer ones acting as catadioptric prisms and the more central ones acting as dioptric prisms. This type of arrangement provides a thin, flat lens which is inexpensive to manufacture and which has good infrared transmitting properties.

Care should be taken in the arrangement of the focusing means to ensure that radiation over an adequate vertical range is concentrated on the element. Where reliance is placed on a single heat detector means, it is important to avoid a sharply focused image which will miss the sensor element if the heat mark is above or below the centre of the field of view. In such instances, an image which overlaps the element is preferred, such that an adequate proportion falls on the element across the required vertical range of heat mark positions.

In a further alternative arrangement, the vertical position of the heat mark is additionally detected by using a vertical array of heat sensor elements and by arranging the focusing means to preferentially concentration the heat mark radiation on elements at different vertical height positions depending on the vertical height of the heat mark. in a preferred arrangement of this alternative, this comprises a vertical array of two or more pairs of dual elements. Where the apparatus is operable to determine the vertical height of the ball as it passes the sensors, this information can be used to provide additional information in [E 0408 determining the sidespin and backspin characteristics, as can be appreciated from Figure 3.

The strength of the radiated signal falling on the heat detector sensor may be increased by various methods. in one such method, a plurality of heat detector means are employed, with each comprising a focusing means which sharply focuses the signal onto the sensor element. The individual heat detector means are targeted at different ball loft elevations such that at least one will obtain a focused signal when a shot is taken. The controller means readily distinguishes the heat detector means with the focused signal because it will be the strongest signal. This method will also identify the vertical elevation of the heat mark. The individual heat detector means may be positioned side-by-side along the X-X axis direction and the controller means allows for the relevant geometry when calculating the spin characteristics. Advantageously, the detector means which are targeted towards the lower lofted shots are progressively positioned furthest from the starting position. This has the advantage of partly matching the distance from the starting position with the likely rate of back spin, since the rate of back spin typically increases with the degree of loft.

Another method for increasing the strength of the radiated signal falling on the heat detector sensor is to increase the width of the focusing means in the X-X direction, and form it such that the rays continue to concentrate at a focal point which is narrower in the X-X direction than the focusing means. This can be achieved. for example, by substantially providing the focusing means in the general form of a cylindrical surface with a vertical axis. in addition to increasing the strength of the radiation signal, this will also increase the length of time over which the heat signal increases or decreases as the heat mark passes the heat detector. Where this method is used, it will be necessary for the controller means to make appropriate allowance for potential differences in the relative positions which trip the heat detector means, as these may vary with factors such as the relative rotational position of the heat mark, the relative speed of the ball and the direction of the ball relative to the intended direction.

Aspects of the invention can also be achieved without the use of a heat mark on the ball and several examples are given below.

IE 0408 A first example uses an apparatus similar to that already described, but with the following differences. Balls are used which are coated in a photo-luminescent material which strongly emits light, or other readily detectable radiation, following exposure to radiation of a particular type, such as UV radiation. The heat mark is made on the ball just before it is impacted by the club and is detected shortly afterwards by a detector means suited to the detection of the emitted radiation. Although this requires the use of a specially prepared ball, it retains the advantage of the ball being positioned randomly prior to being struck. A second example uses a pre-marked ball which is oriented with its marks in the correct position prior to being struck by the club. The marks and the background of the ball are arranged with different reflection or colour properties. A detector means is used in conjunction with an appropriate source of light or other radiation, and is operable to interpret the reflected pattern resulting from the positions of the marks on the ball. One example of a material with a different reflective property to the normal ball material is a reflective material containing numerous small glass spheres. Another exampie is the use of different colours on the mark and the surrounding background and the use of a light source or filter on the light detector which preferentially detects one colour and not the other. A third example uses a small flat reflecting surface on one side surface of the ball, centred on the initial Y-Y axis position. A light detector measures the angle of reflection of a light source at the detector as the ball passes. A ball without sidespin will maintain the reflecting surface along the pole position and the reflected beam will be directly returned as the centre of the ball passes the detector. The direction and magnitude of any deviations from this situation can be used to indicate the sidespin characteristics. A fourth example uses a ball which has different reflection or colour properties on that half of the ball which is not visible in side view at the initial position. If sidespin is not present, the initially unseen half will remain out of view to any detector monitoring a side view of the ball as it passes. If sidespin is present, the initially unseen half will be detected near the leading edge or trailing edge of the ball, depending on the direction of side spin. The magnitude of the detected part will also relate to the magnitude of sidespin. A full or partial band of different reflection or colour properties about the unseen equator may also be used. Afifth example is very similar to the previous example, except that the unseen portion is at one or both poles of the ball, i.e. the region adjacent the initial intersection of the Y-Y axis with the surface of the ball. In this instance, the detector is positioned in or adjacent the X-Z plane, for example at a position which is below and to the front of the initial ball position. A sixth example relates to the use of a permanent magnet means within the ball, with the poles of the magnet means aligned to the initial Y-Y axis of the |E 0408 ball. When the ball is in flight, appropriate electronic detectors, such as types using the Hall Effect principle, are used to determine if the magnetic pole remains parallel to the Y-Y axis. it will of course, be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific details described herein, which are given by way of example only and that various modifications and alterations are possible within the scope of the invention.

MACLACHLAN & DONALDSON, Applicant’s Agents, Merrion Square, DUBLIN 2.

[E 040819 |E040819

Claims (228)

CLAIMS:

1. A method of measuring spin characteristics of a moving object which is substantially of spherical shape; wherein the object includes marking comprising one or more detectable marks or object features, the method characterised by detecting or recording event characteristics associated with the entry, passage or exit of the marks or object features at a reference or boundary so as to measure the spin characteristics of the moving object.

2. , A method according to Claim 1, wherein event characteristics are associated with time or time duration.

3. A method according to Claim 1 or Claim 2, wherein event characteristics are associated with radiation intensity.

4. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the reference or boundary comprises a plane or two dimensional region across which the object moves.

5. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plane or two dimensional region contains two mutually orthogonal axes; and one axis is orthogonal to the actual direction or intended direction of movement of the object.

6. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein one axis is orthogonal to the actual direction or intended direction of movement of the object; and the other axis is orthogonal or at an acute angle to the actual direction or intended direction of movement of the object.

7. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the object moves substantially in a plane which is vertical; one axis is orthogonal to the actual direction or intended direction of movement of the object; and the other axis is vertical.

8. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein object features include a leading edge, a trailing edge or one or both side edges of the object.

9. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the object is a ball which is hit from a stationary position.

10. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the object is a golf ball hit from a stationary position.

11. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the spin characteristics are side spin, back spin and forward spin.

12. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the spin characteristics are side spin and back spin.

13. A method according any one of the preceding claims, wherein marks or object features, or projected marks or projected object features, are detected or measured by anamorphic detection or measurement; where detection or measurement is associated with different magnification on two axis which are disposed at angles to each other, including angles which are mutually orthogonal; one axis being a magnification axis and the other a compression axis; the magnification axis has relative positive magnification and the compression axis has relative negative magnification.

14. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein marks or object features are detected or measured as projected marks or projected object features.

15. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein marks or object features are detected or measured as projected marks or projected object features; and where projection is in a single dimension.

16. , A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein marks or object features, or projected marks or projected object features, are detected or measured in a side-view which is substantially orthogonal to the axis of back spin or forward spin.

17. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein measurement or detection of spin characteristics is associated with changes in distance or projected distance, between marks or object features, or projected marks or projected object features, between two such side-views.

18. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein measurement or detection of back spin or forward spin characteristics is associated with changes in distance or projected distance between marks or projected marks, or changes in distance or projected distance between object features or projected object features, between two such side-views.

19. A method according to Claim 17, wherein measurement or detection of side spin characteristics is associated with changes in the distance or projected distance between marks or projected marks and object features or projected object features, between two such side-views.

20. A method according to any one of Claims 17 to 19, wherein one side view is a position, or known position, where the marks or object features, or projected marks or object features, are known prior to measurement.

21. A method according to Claim 20, wherein the known position is a starting position where the object is at rest.

22. A method according to Claim 22, wherein measurement or detection of spin characteristics includes appropriate allowance for the object being accelerated from rest.

23. A method according to Claim 21 or Claim 22, wherein marking comprises two marks which in the known position are disposed symmetrically about the centre of the side—view.

24. A method according to Claim 23, wherein marks or object features, or projected marks or projected object features, are detected or measured by anamorphic detection or measurement; and two marks are disposed in the known location on an axis which is parallel to the magnification axis.

25. A method according to Claim 23, wherein marks or object features, or projected marks or projected object features, are detected or measured by anamorphic detection or measurement; and two marks are disposed in the known location on an axis which is orthogonal to the magnification axis.

26. A method according to Claim 24 or Claim 25, wherein measurement is taken within the first quarter turn of back spin or forward spin; progressively increased side spin is associated with increased difference between the projected distance between leading edge and first mark and the projected distance between the trailing edge and the second mark; absence of difference between these projected distances is associated with absence of side spin; slicing side spin is associated with the projected distance between the leading edge and the first mark being greater than the projected distance between the trailing edge and the second mark; and hooking side spin is associated with the projected distance between the leading edge and the first mark being greater than the projected distance between the trailing edge and the second mark.

27. A method according to Claim 24 or Claim 25, wherein measurement is taken within the first quarter turn of back spin or forward spin; progressively increased back spin or fon/vard spin is associated with increased change in the projected distance between marks, increasing where the two marks are disposed in the known location on an axis which is parallel to the magnification axis and decreasing where the axis is orthogonal to the magnification axis and absence of back spin or fonrvard spin is associated with the projected distance between marks remaining substantially unchanged.

28. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein measurement is taken across more than one quarter turn of back spin or forward spin; and marking comprises three or more marks or projected marks.

29. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the surface of the object comprises a material which emits radiation following exposure to radiation; and temporary marking, produced on the object by the impingement of radiation on the material, is detectable by a detection means.

30. A method according to Claim 29, wherein marking comprises a region on the surface of the object which is at a detectably different temperature to an adjacent region of the surface. 35 IE 0408

31. A method according to Claim 30, wherein marks are produced on the surface of the object by radiating it with electromagnetic radiation at wavelengths at which the object has relatively high radiation absorptivity.

32. A method according to Claim 31, wherein the absorptivity is greater than 0.85.

33. A method according to any one of Claims 30 to 32, wherein the method of detection relates to the rate of change of temperature.

34. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein marks are of substantially circular shape and are small relative to the size of the object.

35. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein measurement is associated with an identification of the position or centre of the mark by detection of its edges.

36. A method according to Claim 35. wherein the area of a mark is less than about 3% of the area of the side-view of the object.

37. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the detection of marks or object features includes screening of emission signals from the marks or object features such that signals, other than those generated at or close to the reference or boundary region, are excluded from detection.

38. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein marks or object features are detected at a plurality of locations.

39. A method according to Claim 38, wherein detection is anamorphic detection; and the plurality of locations lie on an axis which is substantially parallel to the magnification axis.

40. A method according to Claim 2, wherein the measurement of the location of marks in a direction parallel to the magnification axis is associated with differences in radiation intensity associated with detection of marks or object features at the plurality of locations. 35 IE 0408

41. A method according to any one of Claims 29 to 40, wherein the object is subjected to a beam of radiation and object features are detected by reflection of radiation from the object.

42. A method according to Claim 41, wherein the same measurement means, or detection means, measures or detects marks and reflected radiation from the object.

43. A method according to Claim 41 or Claim 42, wherein the beam of radiation is pulsed and selectively detected.

44. A method according to any one of Claims 30 to 37, wherein object features are detected by emission of radiation at a wavelength or temperature different to the wavelengths or temperatures of the marks.

45. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein measurement is made using artificial neural-type intelligence.

46. A method according to Claim 29, wherein the surface of the object comprises a photo-luminescent material.

47. A method according to any one of Claims 1 to 28, wherein the object comprises permanent marking which is detectable by a detection means.

48. A method according to any one of Claims 1 to 28, wherein the object comprises reflective or magnetic marking which is detectable by a detection means.

49. A method substantially of spherical shape; by detecting marking on the object; characterised by the of measuring spin characteristics of a moving object which is marking comprising a region on the surface of the object which is at a detectably different temperature to an adjacent region of the surface and by detecting or recording event characteristics associated with the entiy, passage or exit of the marks or regions at a reference or boundary so as to measure the spin characteristics of the moving object.

50. A method according to Claim 49, wherein event characteristics are associated with time or time duration. 35 lEo4o3

51. A method according to Claim 49 or Claim 50, wherein event characteristics are associated with radiation intensity.

52. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 51, wherein the reference or boundary comprises a plane or two dimensional region across which the object moves.

53. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 52, wherein the plane or two dimensional region contains two mutually orthogonal axes; and one axis is orthogonal to the actual direction or intended direction of movement of the object.

54. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 53, wherein one axis is orthogonal to the actual direction or intended direction of movement of the object; and the other axis is orthogonal or at an acute angle to the actual direction or intended direction of movement of the object.

55. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 54, in which the object moves substantially in a plane which is vertical; one axis is orthogonal to the actual direction or intended direction of movement of the object; and the other axis is vertical.

56. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 55 , wherein object features include a leading edge, a trailing edge or one or both side edges of the object.

57. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 56, wherein the object is a ball which is hit from a stationary position.

58. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 57, wherein the object is a golf ball hit from a stationary position.

59. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 58 , wherein the spin characteristics are side spin, back spin and fonivard spin.

60. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 59, wherein the spin characteristics are side spin and back spin. 35 |Eo4osi9 22

61. A method according any one of Claims 49 to 60 , wherein marks or object features, or projected marks or projected object features, are detected or measured by anamorphic detection or measurement; where detection or measurement is associated with different magnification on two axis which are disposed at angles to each other, including angles which are mutually orthogonal; one axis being a magnification axis and the other a compression axis; the magnification axis has relative positive magnification and the compression axis has relative negative magnification.

62. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 61, wherein marks or object features are detected or measured as projected marks or projected object features.

63. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 62, wherein marks or object features are detected or measured as projected marks or projected object features; and where projection is in a single dimension,

64. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 63, wherein marks or object features, or projected marks or projected object features, are detected or measured in a side-view which is substantially orthogonal to the axis of back spin or fon/vard spin.

65. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 64, wherein measurement or detection of spin characteristics is associated with changes in distance or projected distance, between marks or object features, or projected marks or projected object features, between two such side-views.

66. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 65, wherein measurement or detection of back spin or forward spin characteristics is associated with changes in distance or projected distance between marks or projected marks, or changes in distance or projected distance between object features or projected object features, between two such side-views.

67. A method according to Claim 65, wherein measurement or detection of side spin characteristics is associated with changes in the distance or projected distance between marks or projected marks and object features or projected object features, between two such side-views. 35 IE 0408

68. A method according to any one of Claims 65 to 67, wherein one side view is a position, or known position, where the marks or object features, or projected marks or object features, are known prior to measurement.

69. A method according to Claim 68, wherein the known position is a starting position where the object is at rest.

70. A method according to Claim 21, wherein measurement or detection of spin characteristics includes appropriate allowance for the object being accelerated from rest.

71. A method according to Claim 69 or Claim 70, wherein marking comprises two marks which in the known position are disposed symmetrically about the centre of the side-view.

72. A method according to Claim 71, wherein marks or object features, or projected marks or projected object features, are detected or measured by anamorphic detection or measurement; and two marks are disposed in the known location on an axis which is parallel to the magnification axis.

73. A method according to Claim 71, wherein marks or object features, or projected marks or projected object features, are detected or measured by anamorphic detection or measurement; and two marks are disposed in the known location on an axis which is orthogonal to the magnification axis.

74. A method according to Claim 72 or Claim 73, wherein measurement is taken within the first quarter turn of back spin or fon/vard spin; progressively increased side spin is associated with increased difference between the projected distance between leading edge and first mark and the projected distance between the trailing edge and the second mark; absence of difference between these projected distances is associated with absence of side spin; slicing side spin is associated with the projected distance between the leading edge and the first mark being greater than the projected distance between the trailing edge and the second mark; and hooking side spin is associated with the projected distance between the leading edge and the first mark being greater than the projected distance between the trailing edge and the second mark. "$0403

75. A method according to Claim 72 or Claim 73, wherein measurement is taken within the first quarter turn of back spin or forward spin; progressively increased back spin or forward spin is associated with increased change in the projected distance between marks, increasing where the two marks are disposed in the known location on an axis which is parallel to the magnification axis and decreasing where the axis is orthogonal to the magnification axis. and absence of back spin or forward spin is associated with the projected distance between marks remaining substantially unchanged.

76. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 75, wherein measurement is taken across more than one quarter turn of back spin or forward spin; and marking comprises three or more marks or projected marks.

77. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 76, wherein the surface of the object comprises a material which emits radiation following exposure to radiation; and temporary marking, produced on the object by the impingement of radiation on the material, is detectable by a detection means.

78. A method according to Claim 77, wherein marking comprises a region on the surface of the object which is at a detectably different temperature to an adjacent region of the surface.

79. A method according to Claim 30, wherein marks are produced on the surface of the object by radiating it with electromagnetic radiation at wavelengths at which the object has relatively high radiation absorptivity.

80. A method according to Claim 79, wherein the absorptivity is greater than 0.85.

81. A method according to any one of Claims 78 to 81, wherein the method of detection relates to the rate of change of temperature.

82. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 81, wherein marks are of substantially circular shape and are small relative to the size of the object. lE0408

83. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 82. wherein measurement is associated with an identification of the position or centre of the mark by detection of its edges.

84. A method according to Claim 83, wherein the area of a mark is less than about 3% of the area of the side-view of the object.

85. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 84, wherein the detection of marks or object features includes screening of emission signals from the marks or object features such that signals, other than those generated at or close to the reference or boundary region, are excluded from detection.

86. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 85, wherein marks or object features are detected at a plurality of locations.

87. A method according to Claim 86, wherein detection is anamorphic detection; and the plurality of locations lie on an axis which is substantially parallel to the magnification axis.

88. A method according to Claim 50, wherein the measurement of the location of marks in a direction parallel to the magnification axis is associated with differences in radiation intensity associated with detection of marks or object features at the plurality of locations.

89. A method according to any one of Claims 77 to 88, wherein the object is subjected to a beam of radiation and object features are detected by reflection of radiation from the object.

90. A method according to Claim 89, wherein the same measurement means, or detection means, measures or detects marks and reflected radiation from the object.

91. A method according to Claim 41 or Claim 42, wherein the beam of radiation is pulsed and selectively detected. 35 |E0408

92. A method according to any one of Claims 78 to 85, wherein object features are detected by emission of radiation at a wavelength or temperature different to the wavelengths or temperatures of the marks.

93. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 92, wherein measurement is made using artificial neural-type intelligence.

94. A method according to Claim 77, wherein the surface of the object comprises a photo-luminescent material.

95. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 76, wherein the object comprises permanent marking which is detectable by a detection means.

96. A method according to any one of Claims 49 to 76, wherein the object comprises reflective or magnetic marking which is detectable by a detection means.

97. Apparatus for measuring spin characteristics of a moving object which is substantially of spherical shape and includes marking; comprising one or more detectable marks; the apparatus comprising a measurement means which includes a detection means; characterised in that the detection means is operable to detect or record event characteristics associated with the entry, passage or exit of marks or object features at a reference or boundary so as to measure the spin characteristics of the moving object.

98. An apparatus according to Claim 97, wherein event characteristics are associated with time or time duration.

99. An apparatus according to Claim 98, wherein event characteristics are associated with radiation intensity.

100. An apparatus according to Claim 99, wherein the reference or boundary comprises a plane or two dimensional region across which the object moves.

101. An apparatus according to Claim 100, wherein the plane or two dimensional region contains two mutually orthogonal axes; and one axis is orthogonal to the actual direction or intended direction of movement of the object. ||5o4o319

102. An apparatus according to Claim 101, wherein one axis is orthogonal to the actual direction or intended direction of movement of the object; and the other axis is orthogonal or at an acute angle to the actual direction or intended direction of movement of the object.

103. An apparatus according to Claim 102, wherein one axis is orthogonal to the actual direction or intended direction of movement of the object; and the other axis is vertical.

104. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 97 to 103, wherein object features include a leading edge, a trailing edge or one or both side edges of the object.

105. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 97 to 104, wherein the object is a ball which is hit from a stationary position.

106. An apparatus according to Claim 105, wherein the object is a golf ball hit from a stationary position.

107. characteristics are side spin, back spin and forward spin. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 97 to 106, wherein the spin

108. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 97 to 107, wherein the spin characteristics are side spin and back spin.

109. includes an anamorphic detection means or anamorphic measurement means; the An apparatus according to any one of Claims 97 to 108, wherein the apparatus anamorphic detection means or anamorphic measurement means are operable to detect or measure marks or object features, or projected marks or projected object features; the anamorphic detection means or anamorphic measurement means are operable to detect or measure with different magnification on two axis which are disposed at angles to each other, including angles which are mutually orthogonal; one axis being a magnification axis and the other a compression axis; the magnification axis has relative positive magnification and the compression axis has relative negative magnification. lEo4oe

110. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 97 to 109, wherein the measurement means is operable to detect or measure marks or object features as projected marks or projected object features.

111. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 97 to 110, wherein the measurement means is operable to detect or measure marks or object features as projected marks or projected object features; and where projection is a single dimension.

112. means is operable to detect or measure marks or object features, or projected marks or An apparatus according to any one of Claims 97 to 111, wherein the measurement projected object features, in a side-view which is substantially orthogonal to the axis of back spin or forward spin.

113. , measurement means is operable to detect or measure spin characteristics by association An apparatus according to either Claim 111 or Claim 112, wherein the with changes in the distance, or projected distance, between marks or object features, or projected marks or projected object features, between two such side-views.

114. An apparatus according to Claim 113, wherein the measurement means is operable to detect or measure back spin or forward spin characteristics by association with changes in the distance or projected distance between marks or changes in the distance or projected distance between object features, between two such side-views.

115. operable to detect or measure side spin characteristics by association with changes in the An apparatus according to Claim 113, wherein the measurement means is projected distance between marks and object features, between two such side-views.

116. measurement means is operable to know the location of marks or object features, or An apparatus according to any one of Claims 113 to 115, wherein the projected marks or object features, in a known position prior to measurement.

117. 1 17. position where the object is at rest. An apparatus according to Claim 116, wherein the known position is a starting 35 |E0408lSl 29

118. An apparatus according to Claim 117, wherein the measurement means is operable to make appropriate allowance for the object being accelerated from rest when measuring the spin characteristics.

119. which in the known location are disposed symmetrically about the centre of the side-view. An apparatus according to Claim 118, wherein marking comprises two marks

120. An apparatus according to Claim 119, wherein the detection or measurement means is operable to anamorphically detect or measure marks or object features, or projected marks or projected object features; and two marks are disposed in the known location on an axis which is parallel to the magnification axis.

121. means is operable to anamorphically detect or measure marks or object features, or An apparatus according to Claim 120, wherein the detection or measurement projected marks or projected object features; and two marks are disposed in the known location on an axis which is orthogonal to the magnification axis.

122. means is operable to measure side spin characteristics within the first quarter turn of back An apparatus according to the Claim 120 or Claim 121, wherein the measurement spin or forward spin; progressively increased side spin is associated with increased difference between the projected distance between leading edge and first mark and the projected distance between the trailing edge and the second mark; absence of difference between these projected distances is associated with absence of side spin; slicing side spin is associated with the projected distance between the leading edge and the first mark being greater than the projected distance between the trailing edge and the second mark; and hooking side spin is associated with the projected distance between the leading edge and the first mark being greater than the projected distance between the trailing edge and the second mark.

123. operable to measure back spin or forward spin characteristics within the first quarter turn An apparatus according to Claim 121, wherein the measurement means is of back spin or fonlvard spin; progressively increased back spin or forward spin is associated with increased change in the projected distance between marks, increasing where the two marks are disposed in the known location on an axis which is parallel to the magnification axis and decreasing where the axis is orthogonal to the magnification axis. 35 IE 0408 and absence of back spin or forward spin is associated with the projected distance between marks remaining substantially unchanged.

124. An apparatus according to any one of claims 97 to 123, wherein the measurement means detects or measures spin characteristics across more than one quarter turn of back spin or fonii/ard spin; and marking comprises three or more marks or projected marks.

125. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 97 to 124, wherein the surface of the object comprises a material which emits radiation following exposure to radiation; the detection means is operable to detect temporary marking, produced on the object by the impingement of radiation on the material.

126. surface of the object which is at a detectably different temperature to an adjacent region of An apparatus according to Claim 125, wherein marking comprises a region on the the surface the detection means is operable to detect temporary marking which is at a detectably different temperature to an adjacent region of the surface.

127. An apparatus according to Claim 126, wherein the detection means includes a heat sensor.

128. An apparatus according to Claim 127, wherein the heat sensor is operable to vary its output with variations in the detected heat radiation signal.

129. An apparatus according to either Claim 127 or 128, wherein the detection means is operable to detect the rate of change of temperature.

130. pyroelectric sensor. An apparatus according to Claim 129, wherein the detection means is a 130a An apparatus according to Claim 130, wherein the detection means is a pyroelectric sensor which operates in current mode.

131. operable to detect temperature or relative temperature. An apparatus according to Claim 126 or 127, wherein the detection means is [E 040819 3]

132. An apparatus according to Claim 131, wherein the detection means is a photoconductive sensor.

133. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 126 to 132, wherein the detection means is a sensor with very fast response.

134.An apparatus according to any one of Claims 126 to 133, wherein the detection means is a dual element sensor. 134a.An apparatus according to any one of Claims 126 to 134, wherein the detection means is a slot sensor.

135. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 126 to 134, wherein the detection means includes a filter means which is operable to preferentially transmit radiation emitted by marks or object features and exclude unwanted wavelengths.

136. marking means; and the marking means is operable to produce temporary heat marking An apparatus according to any one of Claims 125 to 134, which includes a on the surface of the object.

137. produce marking on the surface of the object by radiating it with electromagnetic radiation An apparatus according to Claim 136, wherein the marking means is operable to at wavelengths at which the object has relatively high radiation absorptivity.

138. An apparatus according to Claim 137, wherein the absorptivity is greater than 0.85.

139. checking means; the checking means comprising an annular beam of visible light which is An apparatus according to any one of Claims 136 to 138, which includes a physically locked in alignment with the beam from the radiation emitting means; and where the annular beam falls just outside the perimeter of the object when heat marking is correctly positioned. [E 0403

140. An apparatus according to Claim 136, wherein the marking means is operable to produce temporary heat marking by thermal conductive contact.

141. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 97 to 140, wherein the marking means is operable to produce marks which are of substantially circular shape and are relatively small compared to the size of the object.

142. An apparatus according to Claim 141, wherein the measurement means is operable to detect, measure or identify the position or centre of the mark by detection of its leading and trailing edges.

143. An apparatus according to either Claim 141 or Claim 142, wherein the area of a mark is less than about 3% of the area of the side-view of the object.

144. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 97 to 143, which includes a screening means; and the screening means is operable to exclude from detection emission signals from the marks or object features, other than those generated at or close to the reference or boundary region.

145. measurement means or detection means includes an anamorphic lens means; which is An apparatus according to any one of Claims 109 to 144, wherein the operable to anamorphically detect marks or object features; the anamorphic lens means comprises a combination of spherical lens characteristics and cylinder lens characteristics, or comprises toroidal lens characteristics.

146. comprises a polymer Fresnel faceted lens. An apparatus according to Claim 145, wherein the anamorphic lens means,

147. detection means includes an anamorphic reflector means; which is operable to An apparatus according to Claim 141, wherein the measurement means or anamorphically detect marks or object features; which is off-axis; and comprises a combination of spherical reflector characteristics and cylinder reflector characteristics, or comprises toroidal reflector characteristics. 35 150409

148. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 97 to 147, wherein the anamorphic reflector means, comprises a polymer Fresnel faceted reflector.

149. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 97 to 148, which includes a plurality of detection means located along an axis; and where the detection means are operable to detect marks or object features.

150. An apparatus according to Claim 149, wherein the detection means is operable to anamorphically detect marks or object features and the plurality of detection means are disposed on an axis which is substantially parallel to the magnification axis.

151. ‘I51. to measure the location of marks in a direction parallel to the magnification axis by An apparatus according to Claim 98, wherein the measurement means is operable associated with differences in radiation intensity associated with detection of marks or object features at the plurality of locations.

152. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 125 to 151, wherein the measurement means is operable detect or measure object features by detection of reflected radiation from the object.

153. An apparatus according to Claim 152 the preceding claim, wherein the apparatus includes a radiation emitting means which is operable to subject the object to a beam of radiation.

154. An apparatus according to either Claim 152 or Claim 153, wherein the same measurement means, or the same detection means, is operable to measure or detect marks and reflected radiation from the object.

155. emitting means is operable to emit a beam of pulsed radiation and the measurement An apparatus according to either Claim 153 or Claim 154, wherein the radiation means is operable to selectively detect or measure the pulsed radiation.

156. measurement means is operable detect or measure emission from object features at a An apparatus according to any one of Claims 126 to 146, wherein the wavelength or temperature different to the wavelengths or temperatures of the marks. 35 |E0408

157. An apparatus according to any one of the Claims 97 to 156, wherein the measurement means includes an artificial neural-type intelligence means.

158. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 97 to 157, where the surface of the object comprises a photo-luminescent material.

159. means which is operable to produce three or more marks or projected marks on the object. An apparatus according to Claim 158, wherein the apparatus includes a marking

160. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 97 to 159, wherein the detection means is operable to detect permanent marking on the object.

161. means is operable to detect reflective or magnetic marking on the object. An apparatus according to any one of Claim 97 to 160, wherein the detection

162. substantially of spherical shape; and which includes marking; comprising one or more Apparatus for measuring spin characteristics of a moving object which is detectable marks; the apparatus comprising a measurement means which includes a detection means; characterised in that, marks are at a detectably different temperature to an adjacent region of the surface; and the detection means is operable to detect marks which are at a detectably different temperature to an adjacent region of the surface and the detection means is operable to detect or record event characteristics associated with the entry, passage or exit of marks or regions at a reference or boundary so as to measure the spin characteristics of the moving object.

163. An apparatus according to Claim 162, wherein event characteristics are associated with time or time duration.

164. An apparatus according to Claim 163, wherein event characteristics are associated with radiation intensity.

165. An apparatus according to Claim 164, wherein the reference or boundary comprises a plane or two dimensional region across which the object moves. 35 IE 0408

166. An apparatus according to Claim 165, wherein the plane or two dimensional region contains two mutually orthogonal axes; and one axis is orthogonal to the actual direction or intended direction of movement of the object.

167. An apparatus according to Claim 166, wherein one axis is orthogonal to the actual direction or intended direction of movement of the object; and the other axis is orthogonal or at an acute angle to the actual direction or intended direction of movement of the object.

168. An apparatus according to Claim 167, wherein one axis is orthogonal to the actual direction or intended direction of movement of the object; and the other axis is vertical.

169. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 162 to 168, wherein object features include a leading edge, a trailing edge or one or both side edges of the object.

170. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 162 to 169, wherein the object is a ball which is hit from a stationary position.

171. stationary position. An apparatus according to Claim 170, wherein the object is a golf ball hit from a

172. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 162 to 171, wherein the spin characteristics are side spin, back spin and fonrvard spin.

173. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 162 to 172, wherein the spin characteristics are side spin and back spin.

174. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 162 to 173, wherein the apparatus includes an anamorphic detection means or anamorphic measurement means; the anamorphic detection means or anamorphic measurement means are operable to detect or measure marks or object features, or projected marks or projected object features; the anamorphic detection means or anamorphic measurement means are operable to detect or measure with different magnification on two axis which are disposed at angles to each other, including angles which are mutually orthogonal; one axis being a magnification axis [E 0408 and the other a compression axis; the magnification axis has relative positive magnification and the compression axis has relative negative magnification.

175. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 162 to 174, wherein the measurement means is operable to detect or measure marks or object features as projected marks or projected object features.

176. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 162 to 175, wherein the measurement means is operable to detect or measure marks or object features as projected marks or projected object features; and where projection is a single dimension.

177. measurement means is operable to detect or measure marks or object features, or An apparatus according to any one of Claims 162 to 175, wherein the projected marks or projected object features, in a side-view which is substantially orthogonal to the axis of back spin or fon/vard spin.

178. 176 or Claim measurement means is operable to detect or measure spin characteristics by association An apparatus according to either Claim 177, wherein the with changes in the distance, or projected distance, between marks or object features, or projected marks or projected object features, between two such side-views.

179. operable to detect or measure back spin or fon/vard spin characteristics by association An apparatus according to Claim 178, wherein the measurement means is with changes in the distance or projected distance between marks or changes in the distance or projected distance between object features, between two such side-views.

180. operable to detect or measure side spin characteristics by association with changes in the An apparatus according to Claim 179, wherein the measurement means is projected distance between marks and object features, between two such side-views.

181. measurement means is operable to know the location of marks or object features, or

182. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 178 to 180, wherein the projected marks or object features, in a known position prior to measurement. 35 [E 0408182. An apparatus according to Claim 181, wherein the known position is a starting position where the object is at rest.

183. operable to make appropriate allowance for the object being accelerated from rest when An apparatus according to Claim 182, wherein the measurement means is measuring the spin characteristics.

184. which in the known location are disposed symmetrically about the centre of the side-view. An apparatus according to Claim 183, wherein marking comprises two marks

185. means is operable to anamorphically detect or measure marks or object features, or An apparatus according to Claim 184, wherein the detection or measurement projected marks or projected object features; and two marks are disposed in the known location on an axis which is parallel to the magnification axis.

186. means is operable to anamorphically detect or measure marks or object features, or An apparatus according to Claim 185, wherein the detection or measurement projected marks or projected object features; and two marks are disposed in the known location on an axis which is orthogonal to the magnification axis.

187. An apparatus according to the Claim 185 or Claim 186, wherein the measurement means is operable to measure side spin characteristics within the first quarter turn of back spin or fon/vard spin; progressively increased side spin is associated with increased difference between the projected distance between leading edge and first mark and the projected distance between the trailing edge and the second mark; absence of difference between these projected distances is associated with absence of side spin; slicing side spin is associated with the projected distance between the leading edge and the first mark being greater than the projected distance between the trailing edge and the second mark; and hooking side spin is associated with the projected distance between the leading edge and the first mark being greater than the projected distance between the trailing edge and the second mark.

188. operable to measure back spin or fon/vard spin characteristics within the first quarter turn An apparatus according to Claim 186, wherein the measurement means is of back spin or forward spin; progressively increased back spin or forward spin is 35 lEo4os1g 38 associated with increased change in the projected distance between marks, increasing where the two marks are disposed in the known location on an axis which is parallel to the magnification axis and decreasing where the axis is orthogonal to the magnification axis. and absence of back spin or forward spin is associated with the projected distance between marks remaining substantially unchanged.

189. An apparatus according to any one of claims 162 to 188, wherein the measurement means detects or measures spin characteristics across more than one quarter turn of back spin or fon/vard spin; and marking comprises three or more marks or projected marks.

190. the object comprises a material which emits radiation following exposure to radiation; the detection means is operable to detect temporary marking, produced on the object by the impingement of radiation on the material. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 162 to 189, wherein the surface of

191. An apparatus according to Claim 190, wherein marking comprises a region on the surface of the object which is at a detectably different temperature to an adjacent region of the surface the detection means is operable to detect temporary marking which is at a detectably different temperature to an adjacent region of the surface.

192. An apparatus according to Claim 191, wherein the detection means includes a heat sensor.

193. its output with variations in the detected heat radiation signal. An apparatus according to Claim 192, wherein the heat sensor is operable to vary

194. An apparatus according to either Claim 192 or 193, wherein the detection means is operable to detect the rate of change of temperature.

195. pyroelectric sensor. An apparatus according to Claim 194, wherein the detection means is a

196. operable to detect temperature or relative temperature. An apparatus according to Claim 191 or 187, wherein the detection means is |E 0408

197. An apparatus according to Claim 196, wherein the detection means is a lead selenide sensor.

198. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 191 to 197, wherein the detection means is a sensor with very fast response.

199. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 191 to 198, wherein the detection means is a dual element sensor.

200. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 191 to 199, wherein the detection means includes a filter means which is operable to preferentially transmit radiation emitted by marks or object features and exclude unwanted wavelengths.

201. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 190 to 199, which includes a marking means; and the marking means is operable to produce temporary heat marking on the surface of the object.

202. An apparatus according to Claim 201, wherein the marking means is operable to produce marking on the surface of the object by radiating it with electromagnetic radiation at wavelengths at which the object has relatively high radiation absorptivity.

203. An apparatus according to Claim 202, wherein the absorptivity is greater than 0.85.

204. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 201 to 203, which includes a checking means; the checking means comprising an annular beam of visible light which is physically locked in alignment with the beam from the radiation emitting means; and where the annular beam falls just outside the perimeter of the object when heat marking is correctly positioned.

205. An apparatus according to Claim 201, wherein the marking means is operable to produce temporary heat marking by thermal conductive contact. IE 0403

206. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 162 to 205, wherein the marking means is operable to produce marks which are of substantially circular shape and are relatively small compared to the size of the object.

207. An apparatus according to Claim 206, wherein the measurement means is operable to detect, measure or identify the position or centre of the mark by detection of its leading and trailing edges.

208. An apparatus according to either Claim 206 or Claim 208, wherein the area of a mark is less than about 3% of the area of the side-view of the object.

209. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 162 to 208, which includes a screening means; and the screening means is operable to exclude from detection emission signals from the marks or object features, other than those generated at or close to the reference or boundary region.

210. measurement means or detection means includes an anamorphic lens means; which is An apparatus according to any one of Claims 174 to 209, wherein the operable to anamorphically detect marks or object features; the anamorphic lens means comprises a combination of spherical lens characteristics and cylinder lens characteristics, or comprises toroidal lens characteristics.

211. An apparatus according to Claim 210. wherein the anamorphic lens means, comprises a polymer Fresnel faceted lens.

212. detection means includes an anamorphic reflector means; which is operable to An apparatus according to Claim 206, wherein the measurement means or anamorphically detect marks or object features; which is off-axis; and comprises a combination of spherical reflector characteristics and cylinder reflector characteristics, or comprises toroidal reflector characteristics.

213. wherein the anamorphic reflector means, comprises a polymer Fresnel faceted reflector. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 162 to 212 the preceding claim, 35 us 040319 4]

214. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 162 to 213, which includes a plurality of detection means located along an axis; and where the detection means are operable to detect marks or object features.

215. An apparatus according to Claim 214, wherein the detection means is operable to anamorphically detect marks or object features. and the plurality of detection means are disposed on an axis which is substantially parallel to the magnification axis.

216. An apparatus according to Claim 163 and the preceding claim, wherein the measurement means is operable to measure the location of marks in a direction parallel to the magnification axis by associated with differences in radiation intensity associated with detection of marks or object features at the plurality of locations.

217. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 190 to 216, wherein the measurement means is operable detect or measure object features by detection of reflected radiation from the object.

218. includes a radiation emitting means which is operable to subject the object to a beam of An apparatus according to Claim 217 the preceding claim, wherein the apparatus radiation.

219. measurement means, or the same detection means, is operable to measure or detect An apparatus according to either Claim 217 or Claim 218, wherein the same marks and reflected radiation from the object.

220. An apparatus according to either Claim 218 or Claim 219, wherein the radiation emitting means is operable to emit a beam of pulsed radiation and the measurement means is operable to selectively detect or measure the pulsed radiation.

221. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 191 to 211, wherein the measurement means is operable detect or measure emission from object features at a wavelength or temperature different to the wavelengths or temperatures of the marks.

222. An apparatus according to any one of the Claims 162 to 221, wherein the measurement means includes an artificial neural-type intelligence means. 20 IE o4o31é 42

223. An apparatus according to any one of Claim 162 to 222, where the surface of the object comprises a photo-luminescent material.

224. An apparatus according to Claim 223, wherein the apparatus includes a marking means which is operable to produce three or more marks or projected marks on the object.

225. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 162 to 224, wherein the detection means is operable to detect permanent marking on the object.

226. An apparatus according to any one of Claim 162 to 225, wherein the detection means is operable to detect reflective or magnetic marking on the object.

227. A method of measuring spin characteristics of a moving object substantially as herin described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

228. Apparatus for measuring spin characteristics of a moving object substantially as herein described, with reference to, and as shown in the accompanying drawings. MACLACHLAN & DONALDSON, Applicant's Agents, 47 Merrion Square, DUBLIN 2.