Golf ball trajectory and spin sensing system

Abstract

A golf simulator is provided with an improved trajectory sensing and spin detector. The trajectory sending system includes a first row of light sensors located adjacent to a tee and receiving light from a first light source directly above the tee. Second and third rows of light sensors are positioned away from the tee. The second row receives light from a second source directly overhead. The third row receives light from the first light source where a plane of light is defined between the first light source and the third row of sensors. The time intervals between a golf ball passing from the tee to the first plane of light and to the second plane of light, where the second plane of light is defined by the second light source and the second row of sensors are detected by the first, second, and third rows of light sensors. The angle of elevation of a golf ball is determined as a function of the ratio of the first and second time intervals. A special golf ball has permanent magnets imbedded therein and a first and a second pickup coil and are positioned on opposite sides of the tee to provide output signals corresponding to the spin of the golf ball. Means are provided for combining the output signals of the pickup coils to determine the spin of the golf ball around respective horizontal and vertical axis.