US Patent 7444770 Designs on a sphere that exhibit spin induced contrast

A methodology is disclosed for arranging markings on a ball or sphere where the markings exhibit spin induced contrast when the ball or sphere is rotated at a sufficient speed. The methodology is based on a layout utilizing a plurality of geodesic lines symmetrically arranged around the ball or sphere. Various markings can then be applied on the basis of the layout such that when the ball or sphere is rotated, the markings form contrast lines that are perpendicular to the axis of spin of the ball or sphere, at any axis of spin. These contrast line allow an observer to more accurately detect the axis of spin of the ball or sphere as well as track the ball or sphere in motion.