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Re: [Phys-l] football orientation in flight

Perhaps it is time for someone to try some experiments! :-)

There are at least two manufacturers who make football throwing machines
Bata: http://www.batabaseball.com/football.html
JUGS: http://www.rogersathletic.com/football/field_training/field_training.asp?pid=104

From the brief promo info online, it sounds like these will throw 10-80 yds with control of speed, angle and (at least some control of) spiral. This would provide repeatability and opportunity to set up video cameras at the start and end to measure spin rates, angle of trajectory, and angle orientation.

And they claim that most major college football teams have such a device. I don't have access to one, but it could be a fun project for an ambitious group of students!


Tim F