Velocity vector (3D) measurement for spherical objects using an electro-optical device

The present paper describes a procedure to measure the velocity vector (3D) of a spherical object using an electro-optical device configured as a single large detection area optical barrier. The proposed procedure allows a measurement accuracy up to 0.1% in some cases and presents several advantages in relation to other measurement procedures like image processing, doppler-radar and some other electro-optical devices. The procedure is independent of the relative position of the measurement device in relation to the object trajectory. The fact of using a single optical barrier reduces the space required in the movement direction and increase the cases where the device can be used. A prototype has been built and tested.

► New method to measure the 3D velocity vector for spherical objects. ► The method is based on large detection area optical barriers. ► A measurement error less than 0.1% can be obtained. ► The method has been developed for spherical objects but it can be extended to any other geometries.