Golf Ball X-Ray Concentricity Imaging Without Rotation Error
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the concentricity of multi-layer golf balls are inefficient and prone to measurement errors due to rotation-induced distortion and parallax issues, which affect the precision of concentricity assessment.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using X-ray imaging with multiple sources and detectors, combined with edge detection algorithms, to calculate 3D distances and determine concentricity by positioning the golf ball for non-rotation and capturing images from perpendicular planes, eliminating rotation-induced distortion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the golf ball is rotated during X-ray imaging to capture multiple views, then more complete 3D information is obtained, but rotation-induced distortion and parallax errors increase measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D planar imaging to 3D volumetric imaging by combining X-ray sources positioned at perpendicular angles (0° and 90°). This multi-dimensional approach captures complete 3D information without requiring rotation, as the perpendicular projections provide sufficient spatial data to reconstruct the golf ball's internal structure and calculate concentricity accurately.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of rotating the golf ball to obtain multiple views (conventional approach), the patent inverts the approach by keeping the ball stationary and moving the X-ray sources to different positions. This eliminates rotation-induced distortion while achieving the same goal of capturing comprehensive 3D information through perpendicular projections.
2Device complexity
If a single X-ray source is used for imaging, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision for concentricity determination deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a second X-ray source positioned at a perpendicular angle to the first source. This creates a multi-dimensional imaging system where two perpendicular projections provide sufficient data to calculate 3D coordinates and determine concentricity with high precision, overcoming the limitations of single-source 2D imaging.
3Measurement precision
If the golf ball is positioned for non-rotation imaging, then rotation-induced distortion is eliminated, but the completeness of 3D information may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent compensates for the lack of rotation by introducing perpendicular imaging dimensions. Two X-ray sources positioned at 0° and 90° angles provide projections along perpendicular axes, which together contain complete 3D information necessary for accurate concentricity calculation without requiring the ball to rotate.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Accurately assesses concentricity with high precision by minimizing rotation-induced errors, enabling effective sorting and quality control of golf balls based on concentricity and layer thickness.
Implementation Method 1
taking at least one X, Z image of the golf ball using a first x-ray source
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for determining concentricity of a multiple layer golf ball are disclosed herein. One or more images of a golf ball are generated using an X-ray source, a camera or a digital detector, and an image intensifier. An edge detection algorithm is preferably utilized. The method also includes calculating Y,Z center coordinates of the a best fit diameter or ellipse of the inner edge layer and outer edge layer of the multiple layer golf ball.