Abstract: A method for inspecting golf balls is disclosed. An imager such as a camera captures a spectral image of the golf ball. The spectral image is captured line-by-line as the golf ball rotates. The lines are then packed together to form a three-dimensional spectral image of the golf ball showing full spectral information for every pixel. The resultant three-dimensional spectral image is then analyzed, such as using a pattern matching or threshold analysis tool. If a golf ball passes the inspection, it is permitted to advance in the processing. If the golf ball does not pass the inspection, it may be diverted. This inspection system is capable of detecting very subtle color differences, so the system is particularly applicable for use in inspecting primer coat coverage.

Abstract: A method for inspecting golf balls is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of providing at least one sensor capable of obtaining images of the infrared radiation emitted from the ball, obtaining at least one image of the ball using the sensor after paint or a coating has been applied to the surface of the ball, and determining whether the liquid was applied evenly on the surface of the ball. Preferably, the image is obtained during the transient period when the solvent in the paint or coating is evaporating. A number of numerical analysis can be used to determine the evenness of the paint or coating.

Abstract: A method for inspecting golf balls is disclosed. An imager such as a camera captures a digital image of the golf ball. The golf ball image is separated into regions, and a brightness level is determined for each region using a histogram tool. The brightness level of the region is compared with a reference level. If the brightness level of the region is significantly different from the reference level, then the golf ball is diverted. The regions are located from image to image using pattern matching and/or edge finding tools. The environmental light conditions are altered to facilitate the pattern matching and edge finding.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method of heating a golf ball component by using radio frequency waves to reduce the thermal expansion experienced by a golf ball component such as a core, core and at least one core layer or a core and a combination of core and/or intermediate layers. The component is heated prior to having a layer applied in order to reduce the dramatic temperature increase the component experiences upon an intermediate layer being applied. The preheating reduces the amount of thermal expansion the component undergoes in the casting process.