Patent ID: 10143907

Abstract:
The present invention overcomes deficiencies of existing line-calling devices by leveraging a single fixed-location camera to identify object state conditions that resolve object-tracking problems that otherwise require multi-camera or moving-camera solutions. Though described in the context of an automated tennis line-calling device, the invention is equally applicable to other object-tracking problems that can be resolved by identifying object state conditions without employing moving or multiple cameras. The tennis line-calling device is attached to (or at least located in proximity to) the net post of a tennis court, thereby enabling a “close-up” view of both static (court lines) and moving (ball, players, etc.) objects. In one embodiment, integration of a video camera system with line-calling functionality provides additional benefits, including attachment of a single turnkey device to any tennis net post so as to provide automated line-calling functionality without the need for any external video cameras or processing functionality.