Terahertz Tomography Golf Ball Layer Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing golf ball analysis techniques, such as those using x-ray radiation, can alter the golf ball's structure and are often labor or time intensive, lacking effective non-destructive and non-ionizing methods for detailed layer analysis.
Innovation Solution
The use of terahertz imaging and tomography to acquire data on golf ball characteristics, including layer thickness, composition, and presence, providing non-destructive and non-ionizing analysis for improved process control and quality assurance in golf ball manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If x-ray radiation is used for golf ball analysis, then detailed internal structure data can be obtained, but the golf ball structure is altered and the analysis becomes labor or time intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electromagnetic radiation parameter from ionizing x-rays to non-ionizing terahertz radiation (0.1-10.0 THz). This parameter change allows detailed internal structure analysis while eliminating structural alteration, as terahertz radiation lacks the ionizing energy that causes damage to the golf ball materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/labor-intensive analysis process with an automated terahertz imaging system. The system uses terahertz time-domain spectroscopy and tomography to automatically acquire and analyze multiple images, eliminating manual labor and reducing analysis time while maintaining measurement precision.
2Productivity
If traditional analysis methods are used, then labor and time requirements are reduced, but detailed layer analysis capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional surface inspection to three-dimensional internal structure analysis using terahertz tomography. By acquiring images at multiple angles and reconstructing cross-sectional views, the system provides detailed layer analysis of internal structures while maintaining rapid automated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the golf ball into distinct layers (cover, casing, core) and analyzes each layer's properties separately using terahertz imaging. This segmentation allows detailed measurement of individual layer characteristics such as thickness, density, and material composition while maintaining high analysis speed through automated processing.
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
Terahertz imaging and tomography enable rapid, non-destructive analysis of golf ball layers, improving manufacturing efficiency and quality by providing detailed, accurate data on layer characteristics without altering the golf ball.
Implementation Method 1
acquiring imaging data related to at least one characteristic of a golf ball via a terahertz scanner assembly or other equipment configured to use terahertz imaging or tomography
Implementation Method 2
In one aspect, the present disclosure is related to terahertz time domain spectroscopy or tomography
Implementation Method 3
acquiring imaging data related to at least one characteristic of a golf ball via a terahertz scanner assembly or other equipment configured to use terahertz imaging or tomography
Data Source
AI summary
A method, system, and techniques are disclosed herein that provides non-destructive analysis of a golf ball or golf equipment. More specifically, the present disclosure is related to using terahertz tomography to identify imperfections, missing layers, or other undesirable features of a golf ball construction, as well as identifying the composition of various golf ball components or layers. The present disclosure also provides for a relatively quick examination technique that can be implemented in-line with existing manufacturing lines due to its ability to rapidly scan the golf balls.