Golf Ball Concentricity Measurement Using Multi-Angle X-Ray Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for verifying the concentricity of multiple-layer golf balls are not sufficiently precise, as they rely on two-dimensional imaging which can lead to inaccuracies due to the complexity of the ball's layered structure.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing X-ray image scanning with multiple X-ray sources and digital detectors to capture X, Z and Y, Z images of the golf ball, combined with edge detection algorithms to calculate the 3D dimensions and concentricity of the ball's layers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two-dimensional imaging is used to verify concentricity, then the measurement process is simple, but the measurement precision is insufficient due to the complexity of the ball's layered structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional imaging to three-dimensional imaging by introducing multiple X-ray sources positioned at different angles (e.g., 0 degrees, 45 degrees, 90 degrees). This multi-angle imaging approach captures the layered structure of the golf ball in three dimensions, enabling precise measurement of concentricity across multiple layers without the limitations of planar projection.
2Measurement precision
If multiple X-ray sources and digital detectors are used to capture 3D images, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is segmented into multiple independent X-ray source-detector pairs, each capturing images from specific angles. This segmentation allows the complex three-dimensional measurement task to be divided into multiple two-dimensional measurements that can be processed independently and then combined through coordinate transformation and image fusion algorithms, making the overall system more manageable and precise.
3Manufacturing precision
If edge detection algorithms are used to calculate 3D dimensions, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces edge detection algorithms as an intermediary computational step between raw multi-angle X-ray images and final three-dimensional measurements. These algorithms automatically identify layer boundaries and edges in the images, extracting geometric features that would be difficult to measure directly. The algorithms then use these extracted features to calculate three-dimensional dimensions and concentricity, bridging the gap between two-dimensional images and three-dimensional measurements.
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
This approach enables precise determination of the concentricity and layer dimensions of golf balls in three dimensions, improving the accuracy of quality control and ensuring consistent performance.
Implementation Method 1
taking at least one X, Z image of the golf ball using a first x-ray source, a first camera and a first image intensifier
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.