Abstract: A method is provided for determining at least one of the coefficient of lift and the coefficient of drag of a golf ball for a given range of velocities and a given range of spin rates from launch. A method is also described for simulating the flight of a golf ball in a computer. A ball is launched at a selected velocity, spin rate and launch angle. Calculations are made of the x and y coordinates of the ball during flight and the coefficients of lift and/or drag are calculated mathematically in dependence on the launch velocity, spin rate, angle and calculated x and y coordinates. Repeated launchings are made to obtain a plurality of mathematically calculated values of the coefficient(s). Thereafter, an aerodynamic model for the flight of the ball is mathematically determined in dependence upon the mathematically calculated values of at least one of the coefficients relative to the velocity and spin rate.

Abstract: The test range is provided with a calibration system for calibrating the exact position of a light curtain formed by a ballistic screen. The calibration system uses a model ball which can be moved through a light screen at high speed in order to simulate the actual passage of a driven golf ball through the light screen. Positioning of the model golf ball at a point at which the golf ball just contacts the light screen serves to determine the exact location of the light screen. A laser ranging device is used to locate the calibration system relative to a launch point. Thus, the precise distance of the curtain of light from the launch point can be readily determined. The calibration system may also be used to determine if a ballistic screen is mounted in a true vertical plane.

Abstract: The disclosed heated pressure transducer includes an external enclosure, a first thermal shell housed within the external enclosure, and a sensor housed within the first thermal shell. The transducer further includes a heater for heating the first thermal shell and a control unit for controlling the heater. A tube couples the sensor to a source of heated, pressurized gas and the transducer may further include a tube-heater that is controlled by the control unit for applying heat to the tube. The transducer may also include a second thermal shell housed within the external enclosure with at least a portion of the control unit being housed within the second thermal shell. A heater that is controlled by the control unit may be disposed proximal to the second thermal shell for heating that shell. An auxiliary heater disposed within the first thermal shell for heating the sensor may also be included. Two thermistors may also be included for measuring the temperature of the sensor and the first thermal shell.