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Unread 01-02-2012, 22:49
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Re: Trajectory Calculator (W/ Drag)

Here is a LabView trajectory calculator including the effects of drag and spin. You can adjust how much drag and how much spin (and whether it is back spin or top spin). You can also change which hoop you are aiming for and the height of your shooter exit point.

I've not tested it against any measurements, but the physics of spinning balls has been extensively studied, so it should at least be close. The biggest approximation is for the lift coefficient, where I have used a very simple model, and assumed that the spin does not slow during the flight. If you want to see what a complicated model for lift looks like, read the AJP paper referenced on the block diagram, where he develops an empirical model for spinning tennis balls...
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File Type: vi Trajectory Calculator.vi (42.7 KB, 140 views)