Abstract: An automated golf ball sorting apparatus and method of use is provided. A machine vision system and neural network classification sort golf balls by brand, model, or condition. The system includes a chain-driven elevator with inclined ball platforms that rotate each ball in two planes along a high-friction roller. A camera captures images of each rotating ball, which are classified using a trained convolutional neural network. A microcontroller tracks each ball's progress using infrared sensor interrupts and dynamically assigns it to a solenoid-actuated gate for diversion into a corresponding sort bin. A user loads mixed balls into a hopper; the system lifts, scans, classifies, and sorts them in real time, processing one ball per second with over 90% accuracy. A training mode enables collection of annotated image data using single-type ball loads to refine the neural network.

Abstract: A sorting apparatus for a set of golf balls includes a frame, a ball hopper, a plurality of sort bins, a chain driven elevator, a motor, a set of ball cups, a camera, a gravity fed sorter divider, a set of ball gates, and a controller. The controller activates the motor, monitors an image from the camera for recognition of a printed golf ball marking, and activates a ball gate. A selected golf ball is directed to a corresponding sort bin by the ball gate.

Abstract: A sorting apparatus for a set of golf balls includes a frame, a ball hopper, a plurality of sort bins, a chain driven elevator, a motor, a set of ball cups, a camera, a gravity fed sorter divider, a set of ball gates, and a controller. The controller activates the motor, monitors an image from the camera for recognition of a printed golf ball marking, and activates a ball gate. A selected golf ball is directed to a corresponding sort bin by the ball gate.