Real-time method and apparatus for tracking a moving object experiencing a change in direction
US7030905B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 31, 2002 |
| Grant date | Apr 18, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 23, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA63B2220/806
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method and apparatus for tracking an object using one or more video cameras together with a plurality of microphones and/or geophones, whereby accurate tracking of the object can be obtained even when the object changes directions as a result of an impact. A tennis ball may be tracked during a tennis match. Prior to and after an impact, the ball is tracked with the use of video cameras, illustratively in accordance with the method disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,233,007. Then, the position of the ball at racket or ground impact is accurately determined by measuring the acoustical waves generated by the ball hitting the racket and/or either the acoustic waves or the elastic (Rayleigh) waves generated by the ball hitting the ground, respectively. Tracking then advantageously continues with use of the video cameras.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.