Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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Title: Illuminating and/or Laser-Emitting Golf Ball
FIELD
[0001] The embodiments described herein relate to illuminating and/or
laser-emitting golf balls.
INTRODUCTION
[0002] For each shot in a game of golf, a player strikes their golf
ball with a
golf club, with the ultimate goal of having their golf ball drop into a target
golf hole
in the lowest number of successive shots possible. Precise aiming is important
to
successful play. Golf balls often include alignment markings to help players
aim
their shots. Before taking a shot, a player may choose to reposition their
ball so
that the alignment markings point towards their intended target, particularly
when
training or when taking their first shot for a given hole. The player may then
attempt to position their body and club square to the alignment markings,
hopefully aligning their shot with their intended target.
[0003] The art teaches golf training devices with laser aiming means
to
provide improved aiming. The art teaches attaching a laser emitter to a golf
club,
such that the laser emitter points outwardly from the golf club, guiding a
player's
shot. Further, the art teaches golf training devices wherein laser emitters
are
housed in golf-ball-shaped enclosures. See for example, U.S. Patent No.
6,871,250, U.S. Patent No. 6,579,191, U.S. Patent Publication No.
2004/0137997 Al. In one embodiment, U.S. Patent No. 6,872,150 teaches a
putting practice kit comprising a laser golf ball having a laser emitter
positioned
within a central bore of the ball. In use, the player places the laser ball on
a stand
behind their play ball, and activates the laser ball such that it emits a
planar laser
beam over their play ball.
[0004] When training for golf, a player may wish to know whether or
not
they tend to hit their ball squarely, such that it rolls straight forward on a
flat
surface, or whether their ball spins or tilts to either side after being
struck. The art
teaches some embodiments of illuminated golf balls. See, for example, U.S.
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Patent No. 6,257,995 B1. The art does not appear to teach golf balls which
provide a means of alerting a player as to whether the ball they have hit has
tilted
after being hit.
SUMMARY
[0005] The embodiments described herein provide in one aspect, a laser
light emitting golf ball comprising: a substantially spherical body including
a
transparent section wherein at least the transparent section is made of at
least
partially transparent material; light-emitting module positioned at least in
part
within the body having: a laser emitter for emitting coherent light in an
outwardly
extending direction from the ball through at least a portion of the
transparent
section along a target alignment plane; a power module coupled to the laser
emitter for powering the laser emitter; and an activation switch coupled to
the
power module for activating the laser emitter; wherein the ball is balanced,
such
that the ball has a center of gravity at approximately a center of the
substantially
spherical body.
[0006] In some embodiments, the body is made of at least partially
transparent material; and the light-emitting module further comprises an
illuminating component coupled to the power module for emitting light at a
predetermined frequency.
[0007] In some embodiments, the body further includes a second
transparent section made of at least partially transparent material coplanar
with
the target alignment plane; and the light-emitting module further includes an
illuminating component coupled to the power module for emitting light at a
predetermined frequency through at least a portion of the second transparent
section.
[0008] In some embodiments, the light-emitting module further
includes: a
control module coupled to the illuminating component for controlling the
illuminating component; and a tilt sensor coupled to the control module,
wherein
the tilt sensor is adapted to determine if the target alignment plane tilts
more than
a predetermined angle from vertical; upon said determination the tilt sensor
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generating a tilt detection signal and inputting the tilt detection signal to
the
control module; and upon the control module receiving a tilt detection signal,
the
control module being adapted to control the illuminating component to emit
light
at a second predetermined frequency.
[0009] In some embodiments, the light-emitting module further comprises
a motion sensor for sensing the motion of the ball and generating motion
sensor
readings, a recording medium for storing motion sensor readings, and a
transceiver for transmitting motion sensor readings.
[0010] The embodiments described herein provide in another aspect,
an
illuminating and tilt-sensing golf ball comprising: a substantially spherical
body
having a transparent section wherein at least the transparent section is made
of
at least partially transparent material and wherein the ball is balanced such
that it
has a center of gravity at approximately a center of the substantially
spherical
body; a light-emitting module positioned at least in part within the body
including:
an illuminating component for emitting light at a predetermined frequency
through
at least a portion of the transparent section along a target alignment plane;
a
control module coupled to the illuminating component for controlling the
illuminating component; a power module coupled to the illuminating component
for powering the illuminating component; and an activation switch coupled to
the
power module for activating the illuminating component; a tilt sensor coupled
to
the control module, wherein the tilt sensor is adapted to determine if the
target
alignment plane tilts more than a predetermined angle from vertical; upon said
determination, the tilt sensor generates a tilt detection signal and inputs
the tilt
detection signal to the control module; and upon the control module receiving
a
tilt detection signal, the control module being adapted to control the
illuminating
component to emit light at a second predetermined frequency.
[0011] In some embodiments, the body further comprises a second
transparent section made of at least partially transparent material, said
transparent section being coplanar with the target alignment plane; and the
light-
emitting module further including a laser emitter coupled to the power module
for
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emitting coherent light in an outwardly extending direction from the ball
through
at least a portion of the second transparent section.
[0012] In some embodiments, the light-emitting module further
comprises
a motion sensor for sensing the motion of the ball and generating motion
sensor
readings, a recording medium for storing motion sensor readings, and a
transceiver for transmitting motion sensor readings.
[0013] Further aspects and advantages of the embodiments described
herein will appear from the following description taken together with the
accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] For a better understanding of the embodiments described herein
and to show more clearly how they may be carried into effect, reference will
now
be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings which show at
least one example embodiment, and in which:
[0015] FIG. 1A is a side view of an embodiment of a light-emitting
golf ball
having a transparent body, a laser emitter and an activation switch;
[0016] FIG. 1B is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a
light-
emitting golf ball having a transparent body, a laser emitter and an
activation
switch;
[0017] FIG. 2A is a side view of an embodiment of a light-emitting
golf ball
having a light-inhibiting body, with a transparent section for light emission;
[0018] FIG. 2B is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a
light-
emitting golf ball having a light-inhibiting body, with a transparent section
for light
emission;
[0019] FIG. 3 is a side view of an embodiment of a light-emitting
golf ball
having a control module, a motion activation switch and an illuminating
component;
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[0020] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a light-
emitting
golf ball having a tilt sensor, a motion sensor and an illuminated alignment
stripe;
[0021] FIG. 4B is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a
light-
emitting golf ball a tilt sensor, a motion sensor and an illuminated alignment
stripe;
[0022] FIG. 5A is a side view of an embodiment of a light-emitting
golf ball
for communication with a user device and having a partial illuminated
alignment
stripe;
[0023] FIG. 5B is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a
light-
emitting golf ball for communication a user device and having a partial
illuminated
alignment stripe;
[0024] FIG. 6 is a top view of an embodiment of a light-emitting golf
ball
with a mounting core;
[0025] FIG. 7 is a top view of an embodiment of a light-emitting golf
ball
with at least one shock absorption layer;
[0026] FIG. 8 is a side view of an embodiment of a light-emitting
golf ball
having an outer layer separated from an inner core by a low-friction layer;
[0027] FIG. 9 is a side view of an embodiment of a light-emitting
golf ball
having three layers coupled to one another with gimbals;
[0028] FIG. 10 is diagram illustrating an embodiment of a light-emitting
module of the invention;
[0029] FIG. 11 is diagram illustrating an embodiment of a light-
emitting
module of the invention;
[0030] FIG. 12 is diagram illustrating an embodiment of a light-
emitting
module of the invention; and
[0031] FIG. 13 is diagram illustrating an embodiment of a light-
emitting
module of the invention.
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[0032] The skilled person in the art will understand that the
drawings,
described below, are for illustration purposes only. The drawings are not
intended to limit the scope of the applicants' teachings in anyway. Also, it
will be
appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in
the
figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions
of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for
clarity. Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be
repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.
DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS
[0033] It will be appreciated that numerous specific details are set
forth in
order to provide a thorough understanding of the example embodiments
described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in
the
art that the embodiments described herein may be practiced without these
specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures and
components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the
embodiments described herein. Furthermore, this description is not to be
considered as limiting the scope of the embodiments described herein in any
way, but rather as merely describing the implementation of the various
embodiments described herein.
[0034] Furthermore, it will be appreciated that for simplicity and
clarity of
illustration, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated
among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.
[0035] As used herein, the wording "and/or" is intended to represent
an
inclusive-or. That is, "X and/or Y" is intended to mean X or Y or both, for
example. As a further example, "X, Y, and/or Z" is intended to mean X or Y or
Z
or any combination thereof.
[0036] Referring now to FIGS. 1 to 6, shown therein are various
embodiments of a light-emitting golf ball made in accordance with the
teachings
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of this invention, referred to generally as light-emitting ball 100 comprising
a light-
emitting module for light emission, referred to generally as light-emitting
module
112. Light-emitting module 112 generally refers to the electrical and
mechanical
components of the ball necessary for light emission.
[0037] Referring now to FIG. 1A and 1B, shown therein is an example
embodiment of ball 100 comprising a transparent body 110, a light-emitting
module 112, a circumferential alignment stripe 116 and dimples 113. In the
illustrated embodiment, light-emitting module 112 comprises a power module 102
for powering the components of light-emitting module 112, a laser emitter 108
for
emitting coherent light in an outwardly extending direction 104 from the ball
and
an activation switch 114 for activating light emission from the ball. Laser
emitter
108 is electrically connected to the activation switch 114 and power module
102.
[0038] In use, when preparing to strike the ball 100 before a golf
shot, a
user activates activation switch 114, causing laser emitter 108 to emit
coherent
light outwardly from the ball in an outwardly extending direction 104 through
the
transparent body 110. To line up their shot, the user (i.e. a golf player) can
reposition the ball 100 on tee 125, or on the ground, so that the coherent
light
emitted along the outwardly extending direction 104, as well as the alignment
stripe 116, both indicate the user's desired direction of travel for the ball.
In the
illustrated embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the emitter 108 only emits coherent
light
while the activation switch 114 is activated, such that when the user ceases
to
activate the activation switch 114, emitter 108 no longer emits coherent
light.
While all embodiments of the ball 100 will generally be useful as a training
aid ¨
such as for putting training or driving training - in some embodiments, the
ball
can also be used for regular play without damaging the components of light-
emitting module 112.
[0039] As shown more clearly in FIG. 1B, in some embodiments, the
ball
comprises circumferential alignment stripe 116. Circumferential alignment
stripe
116 comprises an area of colouring on the ball's surface, disposed to be
coplanar
with the outwardly extending direction 104. Circumferential alignment stripe
116
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(or the illuminated alignment stripe described below) is coplanar with the
outwardly extending direction 104; this plane is referred to hereafter as the
"target alignment plane". When the user lines up their shot, the user will
adjust
the ball such that the target alignment plane will be approximately vertical
and
aligned with the user's intended target. If after the user strikes the ball
100, the
ball tilts tangentially from the desired direction of travel, the target
alignment
plane will be tilted from vertical.
[0040] In alternate embodiments, it is contemplated that the
circumferential alignment stripe 116 (or the illuminated alignment stripe
described
below) is otherwise shaped and may not extend around the entire circumference
of the ball. It is merely important that the alignment stripe provides a
visual
reference to the user to align their ball with an intended direction of travel
for the
ball along the target alignment plane.
[0041] In some embodiments, the ball's body is made so that the ball
100
emulates as closely as possible the characteristics of a regulation ball, i.e.
the
look and feel, as well as strength, weight (maximum of 45.93g of mass), and
flight characteristics of a regulation golf ball. In some alternate
embodiments, the
look and feel, mass, strength, weight and/or flight characteristics of the
ball 100
do not all emulate a regulation ball.
[0042] A person of ordinary skill in the art will comprehend materials
suitable for making the ball's body such that it emulates the characteristics
of a
regulation golf ball. In some embodiments the ball's body may be made of
rubber, metal, iron, steel, polyurethane, ionomer resin and/or other materials
known to those of skill in the art. In some embodiments, the ball's body
comprises multiple layers of materials. For example, in some embodiments the
ball's core may be made of a different material than the ball's outer shell.
It will
be understood that the ball's materials may also be selected to meet a
particular
application. For example, where the ball 100 is intended to be struck by a
metal
golf club, the ball may be at least partially made of material chosen to
approximately match the properties of the driver's metal. Further, for
example,
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where the ball is only intended to be used for training and it is not desired
that the
balls travels for a long distance when struck, the ball's body may be made of
a
lighter material.
[0043] In various embodiments described in more detail below, the
ball
body may comprise a variety of different sections alone or in combination,
such
as transparent body 110, light inhibiting section 124, transparent section
122,
transparent section 138, partial transparent section 130. These different
sections
are described in more detail with respect to particular embodiments below. In
the
illustrated embodiment in FIG. 1, the ball's body comprises the transparent
body
110. In some embodiments, the ball comprises a combination of at least one
section that permits at least partial transmission of light (i.e. at least
partially
transparent), and at least another section that at least partially blocks the
transmission of light.
[0044] The at least partially transparent sections of the various
embodiments of the ball's body, such as transparent body 110 in the
illustrated
embodiment of FIG. 1, as well as transparent section 122, transparent section
138 and partial transparent section 130 in later embodiments described below,
will be made of materials permitting at least some transmission of light, such
as
at least partially transparent or translucent materials. In some embodiments,
the
transparent sections of the various embodiments of the ball's body are made of
transparent ionomer resin, such as DupontTm's transparent SurIynTM ionomer
resin, transparent polyurethane and/or transparent rubber. In some
embodiments, the transparent sections of the various embodiments of the ball's
body are replaced at least partially by bores in the ball's body that permit
light
transmission.
[0045] In some alternate embodiments, the diameter 106 of the ball
100
may be larger than the diameter of a regulation golf ball. Regulation balls
have a
diameter of 1.680" or larger, often approximately 1.680". The increased
diameter
of the ball 100 may enhance the ball's usefulness as a training aid because it
may encourage the user to swing through the ball, improving the user's aim. In
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some embodiments, the ball 100 may have a diameter 5% to 20%, and as much
as 100%, larger than 1.680".
[0046] In some embodiments, the ball 100 comprises dimples 113.
Dimples 113 may be added to the ball where it is desired that the ball has the
look, feel and flight characteristics of a regulation ball. Dimples may be
arranged
in different patterns on the surface of the ball, as known to those of skill
in the art.
Dimples have been omitted from FIGS. 2 to 9 figures for clarity.
[0047] Light-emitting module 112 is positioned at least in part
within the
approximately spherical body of the ball. In the illustrated embodiment, light-
emitting module 112 is positioned at least partly within transparent body 110.
In
some embodiments, light-emitting module 112 is positioned within a bore of the
ball's body. In some embodiments the ball's body is shaped to receive the
components of light-emitting module 112.
[0048] In most contemplated embodiments, the ball is balanced such
that
its center of gravity is centered. Balancing the ball involves a comparison of
the
mass and volume of the components of module 112, with the mass of the
remaining volume of the ball surrounding the components of module 112 (for a
given volume of the ball) ¨ i.e. the ball's body, such that the weighted
relative
position of the distributed mass sums to zero at the center of the ball's
approximately spherical body. Balancing the ball can be accomplished
mathematically or using experimentation. Where the ball is balanced such that
its
center of gravity is centered, when it is struck it behaves similarly to a
regulation
golf ball.
[0049] In some embodiments, the laser emitter 108 is a laser diode
outputting coherent light at a wavelength in the visible spectrum of light. In
most
embodiments the laser emitter 108 is a laser diode having an output wavelength
of about 390 to 700 nm, typically in the range of 630 nm to 680 nm. A person
of
ordinary skill in the art would contemplate that other suitable emitters for
emitting
coherent light could be used. As conventionally known, laser diodes are
electrically pumped semiconductor lasers which emit coherent light when
current
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biased in the forward direction. Laser diodes are more rugged than equivalent
gas lasers, and are well suited for use in articles that may experience sudden
impacts from being bounced or shaken, such as a golf ball. In some
embodiments laser emitter 108 comprises optical elements to provide increased
beam coherence. In some embodiments, emitter 108 comprises a collimating
lens, aperture and/or anamorphic prisms. In some embodiments, laser emitter
108 is connected in series with a load resistor which limits the current
passing
through the laser emitter. In some embodiments, the laser emitter 108 has an
output power of between 1 mW to 5W. In some embodiments, the laser emitter
108 has an output power of between 3 mW to 25 mW. It will be understood that
the laser emitter output power may be selected based on the desired operating
condition. Where it is desired that coherent light output from the laser
emitter 108
is visible during daylight, the output power may be selected to be higher than
if it
is only desired that coherent light output from the laser emitter is visible
at night
or otherwise where there is diminished ambient light where the ball is used.
[0050] Power module 102 comprises a power source, such as at least
one
battery cell (battery), for powering the components of module 112. In some
embodiments power module 102 comprises at least one battery cell, suitable for
placement in the ball 100 to power the components of module 112, such as laser
emitter 108. It should be understood that a plurality of battery cells can be
positioned in series to increase the voltage to the components of module 112,
such as emitter 108. However, a plurality of batteries can be positioned in
parallel
to provide for longer battery life. Power module 102 preferably comprises two
to
four batteries, such as the CR 2325 series lithium batteries manufactured by
RenataTM of Switzerland, connected in parallel. Without limitation, the
preferred
range of operation for the power source is between 1V and 12V DC. In some
embodiments, the batteries are electrically connected to metal leads of laser
emitter 108.
[0051] In some embodiments, the ball is only useful as a light-
emitting ball
for a single charge of power module 102, such that when power module 102 runs
out of power, emitter 108 is no longer operable to emit coherent light.
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[0052] In alternate embodiments the ball is adapted to allow the
power
source of power module 102 - such as batteries - to be replaced or recharged.
In
such embodiments, the ball comprises an access port (not shown) providing
access to the power source, such that the user can replace or recharge the
power source. In embodiments where the power source is rechargeable, the
access port may provide access to an electrical port electrically connected to
the
power source. In some embodiments, the access port comprises a bore in the
ball's body with a suitable cover or plug. The cover or plug may be sized to
fit into
the bore, such that the access port is flush with the ball's surface when the
cover
or plug is inserted into the bore.
[0053] In some alternate embodiments, the power source in power
module
102 can be recharged by placing the ball in a wireless recharging unit (not
shown) that does not require a wired connection to the power module 102 to
recharge the power source. In such embodiments, the ball and wireless
recharging unit comprise hardware to provide wireless recharging when the ball
is placed in the recharging unit. It will be understood that various
embodiments of
the recharging unit are contemplated. In some embodiments the wireless
recharging unit charges the power module 102 via inductive charging. In such
embodiments, the ball 100 and wireless recharging unit may comprise induction
coils to permit inductive charging from the wireless recharging unit to at
least one
rechargeable battery in the power module.
[0054] The ball comprises an activation switch for activating light
emission
from the ball. In the illustrated embodiment, the ball comprises activation
switch
114. As described in relation to other figures below, in some embodiments the
ball may also or alternatively comprise motion activated switch 114' and/or a
wireless activation switch. In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 1,
when
depressed or otherwise activated by the user, the switch 114 completes a
circuit
between the laser emitter 108, and power module 102, such that the emitter
emits coherent light while the switch 114 is depressed.
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[0055] As illustrated, in some embodiments activation switch 114 is
located perpendicularly to the outwardly extending direction 104 at or near
the
surface of the ball. It is contemplated that activation switch 114 could be
otherwise positioned. Positioning of the switch will depend on the type of
switch
used. For example, a touch-activated switch is positioned at or near the
surface
of the ball. In most embodiments, activation switch 114 is not located on the
side
of the ball opposite to the outwardly extending direction 104, because this
may
lead to damage to the activation switch when the ball is struck by the user.
[0056] In some embodiments, switch 114 is a membrane switch, flush
with
the outer surface of the ball when not depressed. In other embodiments, the
switch is a capacitance touch switch, which can be activated by the body
capacitance of a user. Other embodiments of the activation switch 114 are
reasonably contemplated.
[0057] In some embodiments, visual or tactile indicia (not shown) are
provided on the surface of the ball above the activation switch 114, so that
the
user can readily locate the activation switch 114. In some embodiments, the
visual indicium is a coloured area on the ball's surface. In some embodiments,
the visual indicium is text or an icon to make it clear to the user that it
provides
the location of the activation switch 114. In some embodiments, the tactile
indicium is raised from the surface of the ball.
[0058] Referring now to FIG. 2A and 2B, shown therein is a particular
embodiment of ball 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the ball comprises
light-
inhibiting section 124 and transparent section 122. Light-inhibiting section
124
can be made of materials suitable for making the ball's body as described
above.
Light-inhibiting section 124 is made of materials which blocks at least some
transmission of light. In various embodiments, section 124 is made of opaque
materials or translucent materials.
[0059] In the illustrated embodiment, the ball comprises transparent
section 122. Transparent section 122 is made of similar materials as
transparent
body 110 and permits at least partial transmission of light therethrough.
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Transparent section 122 is aligned with emitter 108, such that when activated,
emitter 108 emits coherent light through at least part of transparent section
122
in the outwardly extending direction 104. In some embodiments, as described
above, transparent section 122 at least partially comprises a bore running
through light-inhibiting section 124 to the emitter 108.
[0060] Referring now to FIG. 3, shown therein is an example
embodiment
of ball 100 that can be illuminated, such that it is particularly suitable for
playing
golf or training in dimly lit conditions, though it is not so limited. In the
illustrated
embodiment, light-emitting module 112 comprises power module 102 for
powering the components of module 112, illuminating component 126 for
emitting light outwardly from the ball, motion activation switch 114' for
activating
light emission from the ball when the ball is struck or shaken, laser emitter
108
for emitting coherent light in the outwardly extending direction 104 and
control
module 128 for controlling the components of light-emitting module 112. In the
illustrated embodiments, laser emitter 108, activation switch 114' and power
module 102 are electrically connected to the control module 128.
[0061] In use, as further described below, according to a particular
embodiment, when the user activates the motion activation switch 114' by
shaking or striking the ball ¨ such as by tapping the ball 100 against a club
head
- control module 128 controls the laser emitter 108 to emit coherent light for
a
predetermined period of time, and controls the illuminating component 126 to
emit light outwardly through transparent body 110 for a second predetermined
period of time.
[0062] In the illustrated embodiment, the ball 100 comprises at
least one
illuminating component 126 for emitting visible light outwardly from the ball
through transparent body 110 at a predetermined frequency (i.e. colour), such
that illuminating component 126 illuminates the ball. In some embodiments,
illuminating component is at least one LED. It will be understood that in
various
embodiments, the illuminating component may be other types of activatable
light
emitters than LEDs. In some embodiments, the light emitting component may be
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a removable chemiluminescent light-emitter. As conventionally known, LEDs are
semiconductor diodes that emit visible light when current biased in the
forward
direction. Unlike standard bulb type lamps, LEDs are immune to failure
conditions such as filament breakage due to sudden shocks or bumps and are
well suited for use in articles that may experience sudden impacts from being
bounced or shaken such as a golf ball 100.
[0063]
In addition LEDs are relatively energy efficient as they only require
a relatively small amount of energy to generate significant amounts of light.
For
example, a typical incandescent lamp operates on 5 volts and uses a current of
115 milliamps while a LED can operate on 3 volts and draw current on the order
of 5 milliamps. Accordingly, LEDs are a particularly desirable lighting source
in
applications involving small and lightweight devices where the desired size
and
weight limits the strength of power sources available thereby making energy
efficiency important.
[0064] The
LED(s) of illuminating component 126 may be a 5 mm high
intensity wide dispersion LED.
Since the rated lifetime of an LED is
approximately 15 years, illuminating component 126 provides an extremely
energy efficient, long lasting, light-weight and durable light source. In some
embodiments, illuminating component 126 is connected in series with a load
resistor which limits the current passing through the illuminating component.
[0065]
Motion activation switch 114' is a switch or sensor known to those
of skill in the art, operable to activate components of the light-emitting
module
112, specifically control module 128, when the ball is shaken vigorously,
struck or
bounced (referred to hereafter as "motion-triggered"). In various embodiments,
when the ball is motion-triggered, activation switch 114' is activated,
activating
control module 128, and control module sleep timer 170. In some embodiments,
activation switch 114' comprises an element for generating electricity from
kinetic
energy imparted to the ball 100 ¨ such as a piezoelectric element ¨ which then
activates a switch to activate control module 128. In other embodiments,
activation switch 114' comprises a spring switch, wherein when the ball is
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bounced or shaken, a spring comes into contact with a lead, closing the
switch.
In some embodiments, motion activation switch 114' is calibrated so that it
will
only activate when the ball's acceleration exceeds a certain threshold, such
as
0.5 m/s2. In some embodiments, the motion activation switch 114' is calibrated
so
that it will activate when the ball is tapped against a user's putter. This
avoids
unintentional activation during handling.
[0066] Control module 128 controls illuminating component 126,
emitter
108 and other components of the light-emitting module 112 in various
embodiments. Control module 128 may comprise a hardware controller
containing logic circuitry that controls the output of emitter 108 and
illuminating
component 126. The control module 128 may comprise a processor, an ASIC, a
hardware controller and the like, which can be programmed or otherwise
configured to provide control signals to control components of light-emitting
module 112. The control module 128 may be provided with software instructions
to implement certain functionality. Accordingly, the control module 128 may be
provided with software instructions to implement certain functionality
depending
on its implementation.
[0067] When activated by switch 114', control module 128 activates
emitter 108 and illuminating component 126 for a first predetermined time and
a
second predetermined time, respectively. In an example embodiment, control
module 128 activates emitter 108 for fifteen seconds and activates
illuminating
component for fifteen minutes after the activation switch 114' is activated.
[0068] Though the functionality of control module 128 was described
above in relation to activation switch 114', the inventor contemplates that
the
same functionality and timed activation of the emitters is achieved with
alternate
or additional activation switches. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the ball
comprises activation switch 114, and control module 128 activates emitter 108
and illuminating component 126 for a first and second predetermined time when
switch 114 is activated.
CA 02880213 2015-01-26
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[0069] In some alternate embodiments, the ball 100 comprises one of
emitter 108 or illuminating component 126.
[0070] Alternately, in some embodiments, the ball 100 comprises an
activation switch 114 and an activation switch 114', and each switch is
connected
to one of the illuminating component 126 or the laser emitter 108. In some
embodiments comprising both switch 114 and 114', the laser emitter 108 may be
coupled to the activation switch 114, such that the laser emitter is only
activated
when the activation switch 114 is depressed, and the illuminating component
126
may be coupled to the activation switch 114', such that the illuminating
component 126 is only initially activated when the activation switch 114' is
activated.
[0071] In alternate embodiments, a wireless activation switch (not
shown)
may be used instead of or in addition to motion activate switch 114' and/or
switch
114. In such embodiments, the wireless activation switch is operable to
activate
components of the light-emitting module 112, specifically the control module
128,
in response to a wireless activation signal. The wireless activation signal
may be
sent, for example, from a wireless communication device or a remote. The
wireless communication device or remote could be configured with hardware
controller circuitry and components, such as a transceiver operable to output
a
wireless activation signal to activate the ball. It will be understood that in
such
embodiments control module 128 may comprise a hardware controller containing
logic circuitry that controls the output of emitter 108 and/or illuminating
component 126 in response to receiving a wireless activation signal. The
control
module 128 may comprise a processor, an ASIC, a hardware controller and the
like, which can be programmed or otherwise configured to provide control
signals
to control components of light-emitting module 112 in response to wireless
activation signals. The control module 128 may further comprise a transceiver
to
receive wireless activation signals.
[0072] In alternate embodiments, the ball comprises activation
switch 114',
power module 102, and comprises emitter 108 and/or illuminating component
CA 02880213 2015-01-26
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126; and, activation switch 114' is operable to selectively activate the power
emitter 108 and/or illuminating component 126, without first activating
control
module 128. In such embodiments, control module 128 may not be included in
the ball. In such embodiments, when the ball is motion-triggered, activation
switch 114' is activated, activating emitter 108 and/or illuminating component
126. In such embodiments, the emitter 108 and/or illuminating component 126
may remain activated until the ball is motion-triggered again. In some
embodiments, the activation switch 114' is calibrated such that if the ball is
motion-triggered with an acceleration that is too high or too low ¨ the
activation
switch will not be activated. Accordingly, the activation switch 114' may be
calibrated so that only a specific user action within a given threshold would
activate activation switch 114' ¨ such as tapping the ball against a user's
putter.
This would prevent accidental activation during regular handling, and also may
prevent deactivation when the ball is struck by a golf club. Accordingly, in
some
embodiments, the activation switch 114' is only activated when the ball is
motion-
triggered resulting in acceleration above a certain amount, and in some cases
below a certain amount.
[0073] In alternate embodiments, wireless activation switch or
activation
switch 114 are operable to selectively activate the power emitter 108 and/or
illuminating component 126 without first activating control module 128, as
described above.
[0074] Referring now to FIG. 4A and 46, shown therein is a
particular
embodiment of the light-emitting ball 100. In the illustrated embodiment,
light-
emitting module 112 comprises a power module 102, a control module 128, an
activation switch 114, a tilt sensor 134 for measuring tilt of the target
alignment
plane from vertical, a motion sensor 132 for outputting motion sensor readings
relating to motion of the ball, and illuminating components 126, 126'. The
components of module 112 are electrically connected to control module 128. The
illustrated ball 100 comprises a light-inhibiting section 124 and a
transparent
section 138.
CA 02880213 2015-01-26
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[0075] In use, in the illustrated embodiment, when the user
activates
activation switch 114, control module 128 controls the laser emitter 108 to
emit
coherent light in the outwardly extending direction 104 for a predetermined
period
of time, and control module 128 controls the illuminating component 126 to
emit
light outwardly through transparent section 138 for a second predetermined
time
at a predetermined frequency (i.e. colour). Further, the control module 128
activates tilt sensor 134 and motion sensor 132. When illuminating component
126 is illuminated, if tilt sensor 134 senses that the ball tilts such that
the target
alignment plane has tilted more than a predetermined angle from vertical, the
control module 128 controls the illuminating component 126 to emit light at a
second predetermined frequency (i.e. the light emitted from the illuminated
component 126 changes colour). In some embodiments, when illuminating
component 126 is illuminated, if motion sensor 132 detects that the ball has
stopped moving, the control module 128 deactivates the illuminating component
126 and other active components of light-emitting module 112 after a
predetermined time.
[0076] In the illustrated embodiment, ball 100 comprises a light-
inhibiting
section 124 and a transparent section 138 coplanar with the outwardly
extending
direction 104. When illuminating component 126 is illuminated, transparent
section 138 provides an illuminated circumferential alignment stripe coplanar
with
the outwardly extending direction 104 (i.e. coplanar with the target alignment
plane).
[0077] It is contemplated that various embodiments of the ball 100
that
comprise both an illuminating component 126 and a light-inhibiting section 124
could have a transparent section 138 coplanar to the outwardly extending
direction 104 for providing an illuminating alignment stripe. In some
embodiments, further described below in relation to FIG. 5, the transparent
section 138 may not extend around the entire circumference of the ball, such
that
it is a partial transparent section 130 (described below) and provides a
partial
illuminating alignment stripe along the target alignment plane when
illuminating
component 126 is active.
CA 02880213 2015-01-26
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[0078] Motion sensor 132 comprises at least one sensor for sensing
motion of ball 100 and outputting a digital or analog signal indicative of the
sensed motion. The output signal is a motion sensor reading. When active,
motion sensor 132 generates motion sensor readings and outputs them to
control module 128. In some embodiments, motion sensor 132 comprises at
least one accelerometer for measuring acceleration. In some embodiments, a
plurality of accelerometers or a single multiple-axis accelerometer is mounted
in
order to sense motion along multiple axes, such as two or three axes,
representing two or three dimensions.
[0079] As described above, control module 128 activates illuminating
component 126 when activation switch 114 is activated. In some embodiments,
when control module 128 receives signals from motion sensor 132 indicating
that
the ball has come to a rest, control module 128 disables the illuminating
component 126 and laser emitter 108 (if it is still active) after a
predetermined
time. In some embodiments, the control module 128 disables the illuminating
component 126 and laser emitter 108 immediately after the ball comes to a
rest.
In some embodiments, the motion sensor readings may indicate that the ball has
come to a rest after they stop changing in amplitude for a predetermined
period
of time.
[0080] Tilt sensor 134 comprises a sensor mounted to sense if the target
alignment plane tilts more than a predetermined angle from vertical, where
vertical is defined as the direction of gravity. It will be understood that a
multitude
of different sensors operable to detect tilting are contemplated. In some
embodiments, the tilt sensor 134 comprises at least one accelerometer. In some
embodiments, when active, tilt sensor 134 outputs tilt sensor readings to
control
module 128. In some embodiments, tilt sensor readings indicate how much the
target alignment plane has tilted from vertical.
[0081] As described above, control module 128 activates illuminating
component 126 to emit light at a predetermined frequency (i.e. colour) when
activation switch 114 is activated. If the control module 128 receives a tilt
sensor
CA 02880213 2015-01-26
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reading that indicates that the ball has tilted such that the target alignment
plane
is more than a predetermined degree from vertical, control module 128 controls
illuminating component 126 to emit light at a second predetermined frequency
(i.e. a second colour). Accordingly, if tilt sensor 134 detects that the ball
has tilted
more than a predetermined angle, control module 128 controls illuminating
component 126 to emit light of a different colour. In some embodiments, if
tilt
sensor 134 detects that the ball has tilted more than a predetermined angle,
the
illuminating component 126 emits red light.
[0082] In an alternate embodiment, the control module 128 only
receives a
tilt sensor reading from tilt sensor 134 when the sensor detects that the ball
has
tilted beyond a predetermined angle. Accordingly, the control module 128
controls illuminating component 126 to emit light at a second predetermined
frequency if it detects a tilt sensor reading. In such embodiments, for
example, tilt
sensor 134 may be, for example, a rolling ball tilt sensor.
[0083] It will be understood that in order for control module 128 to
analyze
motion sensor readings or tilt sensor readings to determine if the ball has
come
to a rest or has tilted from the vertical, the control module 128 may comprise
a
processor, memory, an ASIC, application program instructions and the like,
which can be programmed or otherwise configured to interpret motion sensor
readings and tilt sensor readings.
[0084] Referring now to FIG. 5A and 5B, shown therein is a particular
embodiment of the light-emitting ball 100.
[0085] In the illustrated embodiment, light-emitting module 112
comprises
motion sensor 132 for outputting motion sensor readings, a recording medium
136 for receiving and storing motion sensor readings and a transceiver 133 for
outputting motion readings to a user device (not shown). Motion sensor 132,
recording medium 136 and transceiver 133 are electrically connected to control
module 128.
[0086] In the illustrated embodiment, control module 128 comprises
circuitry, hardware and software instructions for communicating with nearby a
CA 02880213 2015-01-26
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user device. For example, control module 128 may comprise a processor, an
ASIC, a hardware controller and the like, which can be programmed or otherwise
configured to provide control signals and communicate with a user device. The
control module 128 may be provided with software instructions to implement the
specified functionality. In some embodiments, the processor receives motion
sensor readings, analyzes them in conjunction with the stored software
instructions and writes them to the recording medium 136. Further, the
processor processes software instructions to allow communication with a user
device using transceiver 133.
[0087] In use, when activation switch 114' is activated, control module 128
activates motion sensor 132, recording medium 136 and transceiver 133. When
activated, motion sensor 132 outputs motion sensor readings to control module
128. Control module 128 writes motion sensor readings to recording medium 136
for storage. In some embodiments, a user can retrieve the motion sensor
readings from control module 128 after pairing a user device with control
module
128 by sending a request from a paired user device to control module 128.
Transceiver 133 allows for wireless communication between control module 128
and user device. In some embodiments, control module 128 also records tilt
sensor readings to recording medium 136 and can communicate tilt sensor
readings to a user device.
[0088] The embodiment of light-emitting ball 100 illustrated in FIG.
5A and
5B comprises a light-inhibiting section 124 and a partial transparent section
130.
When illuminating component 126 is active, partial transparent section 130
provides a partial illuminated circumferential alignment stripe along the
target
alignment plane, similarly to transparent section 138. It will be appreciated
that
the partial illuminated alignment stripe provided by partial transparent
section 130
in FIGS. 5A and 5B does not extend fully around the circumference of the ball,
in
contrast to transparent section 138.
[0089] In alternate embodiments, the transparent sections (130, 138,
122)
can be otherwise shaped. Further, more than one transparent section may be
CA 02880213 2015-01-26
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included having different shapes ¨ such as arrows or a plurality of parallel
transparent sections. It will be understood that it is merely important that
an
included transparent section provides a visual reference that can be
illuminated
by illuminating component 126 for use by a user in aligning the ball with an
intended direction of travel for the ball ¨ i.e. providing an illuminated
alignment
stripe. Accordingly, the transparent section provides a visual reference along
the
target alignment plane. Additionally, where a laser emitter 108 is included,
at
least a transparent section is disposed to allow transmission of coherent
light
from the laser emitter along the outwardly extending direction 104.
[0090] Referring now to Fig. 6, shown therein is an embodiment of the
invention with a mounting core 142. In various embodiments described in
relation
to FIG. 1, the light-emitting module 112 is mounted within a body of the ball
100,
shaped for mating with the components of module 112. In some embodiments,
as illustrated example in FIG. 6, the ball 100 comprises a mounting core 142
for
mounting the components of light-emitting module 112. In such embodiments,
the components of module 112 are positioned at least partially within the
mounting core. As described above in relation to various embodiments, the
components should be mounted within the ball such that their weight, in
combination with the weight of the body of the ball, is balanced, such that
the
center of gravity of the ball is centered. The embodiments with mounting core
140 may be preferred in order to minimize costs, as these embodiments may not
require a customized manufacturing of the body of the ball for the specific
components of module 112.
[0091] In some embodiments, mounting core 142 comprises mounting
supports 140, 140' for mounting the components of module 112 in the ball.
Mounting supports 140, 140' comprise means of mounting the components of
module 112 at least partially within the mounting core 142. It will be
understood
that as many mounting supports as needed may be included in mounting core. In
some embodiments the mounting supports may be rigid, in order to rigidly
support the components of module 112. In some embodiments the mounting
supports 140, 140' may be flexible, such that the mounting supports flex when
CA 02880213 2015-01-26
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the ball compresses after impact with a club. In some embodiments, the
mounting supports 140 may be hardening foam, adhesive or mechanical
mounting means.
[0092] In alternate embodiments, mounting supports 140, 140' may be
used to mount the components of module 112 within the ball 100 even if the
ball
100 does not comprise a discrete mounting core 142.
[0093] Referring now to FIGS. 7 to 9, shown therein are various
alternate
embodiments of the body of a light-emitting golf ball made in accordance with
the
teachings of this invention, referred to generally as light-emitting ball 200
comprising a light-emitting module for light emission, generally referred to
as
light-emitting module 112. The functionality and components of light-emitting
module 112 are substantially as described previously in relation to FIGS. Ito
6,
and with respect to FIGS. 10 to 13 below. Generally, the embodiments of the
ball
described in relation to FIGS. 7 to 9 can be made of similar materials as the
embodiments of the ball 100 and may provide similar functionality. The
embodiments described below provide a specific number of layers in order to
provide clear illustration, but it will be understood that alternate numbers
of layers
may be provided. Further, in some alternate embodiments the layers may not be
entirely spherical. For example, a shock absorption layer may be ovoid, or may
only be positioned in proximity to an intended point of impact of the ball.
[0094] Referring now to FIG. 7, shown therein is an alternate
embodiment
of the body of the light-emitting ball. Light-emitting ball 200 comprises an
inner
core 150, a middle layer 151 and a cover layer 152. As in previous
embodiments,
light-emitting module 112 is mounted at least partially within the ball 200.
In some
embodiments, activation switch 114 is mounted near the surface of the ball 200
in the cover layer 152, while the rest of the components of module 112 are
mounted within the inner core 150. In some embodiments, at least one layer of
inner core 150, middle layer 151 or cover layer 152 is made of a material
having
a relatively lower rigidity compared to the other at least one layer. In such
an
embodiment, at least one layer having a relatively lower rigidity serves as a
CA 02880213 2015-01-26
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shock absorption layer. The shock absorption layer is made of materials known
as providing less rigidity than the other layers. According to this
embodiment,
when the ball is struck by a club, the shock absorption layer absorbs some
kinetic energy from the impact, helping protect the components of light-
emitting
module 112. In some embodiments the inner core 150 and cover layer 152 are
made of material having a higher rigidity, while the middle layer 151 serves a
shock absorption layer.
[0095] Referring now to FIG. 8, shown therein is an alternate
embodiment
of the body of the light-emitting ball. In the illustrated embodiment, ball
200
comprises a cover layer 156, a low-friction layer 158 and a core layer 160. In
some embodiments, the components of light-emitting module 112 are positioned
within inner core layer 160. In the illustrated embodiment, low-friction layer
158 is
made of a low-friction, material, such as a liquid. In some embodiments, layer
158 is water. Layer 158 allows inner core 160 to rotate relative to cover
layer
156. Because inner core 160 is not coupled to cover layer 156, when the ball
is
struck, layer 158 may provide shock absorption for the components of light-
emitting module 112 if they are mounted in inner core layer 160. In most
embodiments, where the components of light-emitting module 112 are mounted
in inner core layer 160, all three of the layers are at least partially made
of at
least partially transparent material, such that if the cores rotate with
respect to
one-another, light emission from the ball is not blocked. Because the layers
are
rotatable with respect to one another, the ball 200 preferably comprises a
motion
activation switch 114' or a wireless activation switch, as it may be
impractical to
electrically connect a switch located on the surface of the ball with the
module
112 in the core of the ball 160.
[0096] Referring now to FIG. 9, shown therein is an alternate
embodiment
of the body of the light-emitting ball. Ball 200 comprises an inner core 160,
a
primary layer 162 and a secondary layer 164. In some embodiments, the
components of light-emitting module 112 are positioned at least partially
within
inner core 160. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner core 160 is
rotationally
coupled to primary layer 162 with a rotational coupling 166. Secondary layer
164
CA 02880213 2015-01-26
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is rotationally coupled to primary layer 162 with a rotational coupling 166'.
Rotational couplings 166, 166' may be axially disposed on inner core 160 and
layer 162 respectively, such that they serve as gimbals. In some embodiments,
at least one of inner core 160, layer 162 or layer 164 is made of a material
having
a relatively low rigidity compared to at least one of the other layers.
Accordingly,
in some embodiments at least one of the inner core 160 or the layers 162 or
164
serves as a shock absorption layer. Accordingly, in some embodiments, at least
one of the inner core 160 or layers 162 or 164 absorbs kinetic energy when the
ball is struck by a club, protecting the components of light-emitting module
112.
Though, in the illustrated embodiment, the ball 200 comprises motion
activation
switch 114', in some embodiments the ball 200 comprises activation switch 114,
and wiring is threaded through rotational couplings 166, 166' to connect the
activation switch 114 with the rest of the components of module 112.
[0097] Referring now to FIGS. 10 to 13, shown therein are block
diagrams
illustrating example embodiments of the light-emitting module, referred to
generally as light-emitting module 112, for use in various embodiments of
light-
emitting ball 100 or 200.
[0098] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a simple example
embodiment of the light-emitting module 112. In the illustrated embodiment,
light-
emitting module 112 comprises an activation switch 114, a power module 102
and a laser emitter 108. Activation switch 114 is electrically connected to
power
module 102 and laser emitter 108, such that when activation switch 114 is
activated by a user, emitter 108 emits coherent light.
[0099] It will be understood that in the various embodiments of the
invention described below (or above) activation switch 114 can be replaced or
supplemented by motion activation switch 114' and/or a wireless activation
switch.
[00100] FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating an example embodiment
of
the light-emitting module 112. In the illustrated embodiment, light-emitting
module 112 comprises a power module 102, a control module 128, an activation
CA 02880213 2015-01-26
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switch 114, a laser emitter 108 and an illuminating component 126. Control
module 128 comprises a sleep timer 170. Power module 102, activation switch
114, laser emitter 108 and illuminating component 126 are all electrically
connected to control module 128. The control module 128 controls the emitter
108 and illuminating component 126.
[00101] When activation switch 114 is activated, the control module
128 is
activated, and the control module 128 activates emitter 108, illuminating
component 126 and starts a sleep timer 170. In some embodiments, the emitter
108 is only activated while the activation switch 114 is depressed. In other
embodiments, control module 128 activates emitter 108 for a first
predetermined
time when activation switch 114 is activated. In some embodiments, the first
predetermined time is five seconds to fifteen minutes, particularly five
seconds to
sixty seconds, such that the user has time to align their shot while emitter
108
remains active.
[00102] Control module 128 activates illuminating component 126 for a
second predetermined time after the activation switch 114 is activated. In
some
embodiments, the second predetermined time is ten seconds to eight hours, and
in particular about 15 minutes. The second predetermined time may be longer
than 15 minutes, for example, where it is desired that the illuminated
component
remains illuminated for an entire round of golf. The second predetermined time
is
shorter when the ball is only intended to remain illuminated for the length of
a
single shot. The control module 128 receives timing signals from timer 170 to
determine whether the predetermined times have elapsed.
[00103] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the light-
emitting
module 112 as illustrated in FIG. 11 comprises only one of the laser emitter
108
or the illuminating component 126.
[00104] FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating an example embodiment
of
the light-emitting module 112. In the illustrated embodiment, light-emitting
module 112 comprises a power module 102, a control module 128, an activation
switch 114, a laser emitter 108, an illuminating component 126 and a tilt
sensor
CA 02880213 2015-01-26
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134. Control module 128 comprises a sleep timer 170. Power module 102,
activation switch 114, laser emitter 108, illuminating component 126 and tilt
sensor 134 are all electrically connected to control module 128.
[00105] In the illustrated embodiment, the functionality of light-
emitting
module 112 is similar to the embodiment described above in relation to FIG.
11,
except that the ball comprises tilt sensor 134. When activated, control module
128 activates emitter 108, illuminating component 126 and tilt sensor 134.
When
activated by control module 128, illuminating component 126 emits light at a
first
predetermined frequency (i.e. colour). In some embodiments, light emitted at
the
first predetermined frequency is green visible light.
[00106] While illuminating component is illuminated, if tilt sensor
134
senses that the ball tilts such that the target alignment plane tilts more
than a
predetermined angle from vertical, the control module 128 controls the
illuminating component to emit light at a second predetermined frequency. In
some embodiments, the light emitted at the second predetermined frequency is
red light. Accordingly, while the illuminating component 126 is active, if the
tilt
sensor 134 detects that the ball tilts more than a predetermined angle, the
illuminated component emits a different colour of light. In some embodiments,
the
predetermined angle is between five to ninety degrees and in particular forty-
five
degrees.
[00107] FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating an example embodiment
of
the light-emitting module 112. In the illustrated embodiment, light-emitting
module 112 comprises a power module 102, a control module 128, an activation
switch 114, a laser emitter 108, an illuminating component 126, a tilt sensor
134,
a motion sensor 132, a recording medium 136 and a transceiver 133. Control
module 128 comprises a sleep timer 170. Power module 102, activation switch
114, laser emitter 108, illuminating component 126, tilt sensor 134, motion
sensor 132, recording medium 136 and transceiver 133 are all electrically
connected to control module 128.
CA 02880213 2015-01-26
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[00108] In the illustrated embodiment, when activation switch 114 is
activated, the control module 128 activates motion sensor 132, recording
medium 136 and transceiver 133 for a predetermined time or until motion sensor
132 stops sensing motion.
[00109] While motion sensor 132 is activated it takes motion sensor
readings and outputs them to control module 128. As discussed above in
relation
to FIG. 5, control module 128 may comprise a processor, an ASIC, a hardware
controller and the like, which can be programmed or otherwise configured to
provide control signals. The control module 128 may be provided with software
instructions to implement certain functionality. Accordingly, the control
module
128 may be provided with software instructions to implement certain
functionality
depending on its implementation. In the illustrated embodiment, the control
module 128 reads motion sensor readings and analyzes them in conjunction with
the stored software instructions. Further, the control module 128 comprises
software instructions to allow communication with a user device. A user can
retrieve the motion sensor readings stored on the recording medium, by
communicating with control module 128 via transceiver 133.
[00110] In some embodiments comprising a motion sensor 132, as in FIG.
13, the control module 128 only activates the illuminating component 126 and
other components of the module 112 while motion sensor readings output from
motion sensor 132 and analyzed by the control module 128 indicate that the
ball
remains in motion, or until a predetermined time thereafter. Accordingly, in
some
embodiments, when switch 114 (or 114') is activated, the control module 128
activates illuminating component 126 until control module 128 determines that
the ball is no longer in motion.
[00111] It will be appreciated that while the light-emitting module
112 has
been described in the context of a golf ball in order to provide an
application-
specific illustration, it should be understood that the light-emitting module
112
could also be applied to any other sports balls, which would benefit from
illuminating, such as tennis balls or soccer balls.
CA 02880213 2015-01-26
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[00112] In alternate embodiments, the components of module 112 are
positioned at or near the surface of the light-emitting ball instead of near
its
center, such that the body of the ball would not need to have transparent
sections or bores in line with the laser emitter 108 or illuminating component
126
to permit emission of light outwardly from the ball. The ball would still have
to be
balanced such that its center of gravity is at its center.
[00113] It will be appreciated that the illustrated embodiments shown
to
provide some example embodiments of the invention. The invention is not
limited
to the above-described embodiments, but contemplates reasonable variations
therefrom. Various combinations of the illustrated embodiments and elements
are contemplated. For example, in some embodiments the light-emitting ball has
an illuminating component and/or a laser emitter, and may have a transparent
body or may have a light-inhibiting body with appropriate transparent
sections.
Further, in the various embodiments the transparent sections can extend
circumferentially such that the ball has an illuminated circumferential
alignment
stripe, or may extend only partially around the circumference of the ball,
such
that the ball has a partial circumferential alignment stripe. Further, any of
the
embodiments can have a motion sensor, recording medium and transceiver.
Further, it will be understood that electrical and mechanical connections and
couplings described above are described for illustration only. Other
electrical and
mechanical connections and couplings are contemplated to achieve the desired
functionality.
[00114] Numerous specific details are set forth herein in order to
provide a
thorough understanding of the example embodiments described herein.
However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that
these
embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other
instances,
well-known methods, procedures and components have not been described in
detail so as not to obscure the description of the embodiments. Furthermore,
this
description is not to be considered as limiting the scope of these embodiments
in
any way, but rather as merely describing the implementation of these various
embodiments.
