Shuttlecock

Abstract

A pickball is provided for increasing durability, improving performance, and / or reducing the loudness and / or frequency of sound produced when the ball strikes a racket. The ball is a hollow sphere composed of a spherical shell defining a cavity. The ball is made of a polymeric material infused with graphene, and the shell defines a plurality of holes distributed around the surface of the ball.

Description

[0001] Cross-citation of related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 590157, entitled “Noise Control Ball,” filed October 13, 2023, and U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 788042, entitled “Ball of a Pickle,” filed July 29, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to the field of sports equipment, and more specifically to Peakball rackets and balls with improved noise control, durability and / or performance. Background Technology

[0004] Pickleball is an indoor or outdoor racket sport in which two or four players use solid paddles to hit a perforated, hollow plastic ball over a net. Pickleball has become one of the fastest-growing sports in North America, and various national and international pickleball organizations and foundations have been established to organize and manage the sport.

[0005] However, with its growing popularity, the sport has also faced petitions and lawsuits due to noise complaints. The noise generated by the collision of the ball and racket can be significantly louder than that of tennis or other racket sports. Furthermore, elbow pain has been a serious problem for peakball players. A large proportion of peakball players frequently play with injuries, braces, or bandages, and some even withdraw from matches due to elbow pain. One theory regarding the elbow pain experienced by players is that the vibrations produced by hitting the hard plastic peakball with the racket used in the game are much stronger than those produced by hitting a tennis ball with a tennis racket.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for improved pickle equipment that reduces noise and vibration without affecting the game. The embodiments described herein relate to improved pickle balls with enhanced noise control, durability, and / or performance. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The embodiments described herein provide a pickle ball for increasing durability, improving performance, and / or reducing the loudness and / or frequency of sound generated when the ball strikes a racket. In one aspect, a pickle ball with enhanced noise control, durability, and / or performance is provided, the pickle ball being a hollow sphere made of a graphene-infused polymeric material. The sphere is hollow and includes a spherical shell defining a cavity. The shell defines a plurality of holes. The shell defines a plurality of holes such that the holes are distributed around its surface. The shell defines holes that open into the cavity. In another aspect, the ball is hollow and has a spherical shell or layer providing a surface for the ball. The ball defines a plurality of holes distributed around its surface. In yet another aspect, the ball is hollow and includes a shell defining a cavity. The shell defines a plurality of holes on the surface of the ball. In yet another aspect, the shell or spherical layer defines holes distributed equally (or approximately equally or nearly equally, taking into account threshold variations) around the surface of the ball. In other words, the shell defines equally distributed pores such that adjacent or neighboring pores are equidistant (or approximately equal or nearly equal, taking into account threshold variations or tolerance thresholds). On one hand, the shell or spherical layer defines pores of equal size and shape (or approximately equal or nearly equal, taking into account threshold variations or tolerance thresholds). On the other hand, the spheres are made of a polymer material infused with graphene.

[0008] In one embodiment, the material is graphene-infused plastic. In one embodiment, the material is a graphene-infused copolymer. In one embodiment, the copolymer comprises polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE). In one embodiment, the copolymer comprises PP and high-density polyethylene (HDPE). In one embodiment, the copolymer comprises 50 / 50 HDPE and PP by weight. In one embodiment, the material is graphene-infused polyethylene (PE). In one embodiment, the polyethylene is low-density polyethylene (LDPE). In one embodiment, the LDPE has a Shore D hardness value of about 50 to 55. In one embodiment, the sphere comprises at least 0.01% graphene and the remainder plastic by weight. In one embodiment, the sphere comprises about 0.01% to 0.05% graphene and the remainder plastic by weight. In one embodiment, the sphere comprises about 0.02% graphene and the remainder plastic by weight. In one embodiment, the sphere comprises about 0.03% graphene and the remainder plastic by weight. In one embodiment, the graphene is white graphene powder. In one embodiment, the shell defines a plurality of symmetrically arranged pores on its surface. In one embodiment, the shell defines 32 or 40 pores. In one embodiment, the ball has a color that is sensitive to the human eye. In one embodiment, the ball has a neon green, neon orange, deep yellow, or Pantone 802 color. In one embodiment, the holes have substantially the same size and shape.

[0009] On one hand, a sphere is provided as a pickball, which is a hollow sphere comprising a spherical shell defining a cavity, the shell defining a plurality of holes arranged on its surface according to a hole pattern of uniformly spaced holes to provide a symmetrical arrangement of the holes. In one embodiment, the shell defines holes in the hole pattern, with a distance between the holes, wherein any two adjacent holes in the hole pattern have an equal distance within a tolerance threshold. In one embodiment, the sphere has 40 holes, and wherein the tolerance threshold is at most 4 mm. In one embodiment, the shell defines holes having the same or substantially similar shape and size.

[0010] On one hand, a peak ball for increasing durability and / or reducing the loudness and / or frequency of the sound produced when the peak ball strikes a peak ball racket, the peak ball having symmetrically arranged holes distributed around its surface, wherein a shell defines the holes such that any two adjacent holes are spaced equally apart within a tolerance threshold. In one embodiment, the ball has at least 80%, more preferably at least 90%, symmetry in the arrangement of the holes. In another embodiment, the ball has at least 95% symmetry.

[0011] On one hand, a method for manufacturing a sphere is provided, the method comprising: preparing a formulation comprising a polymer and a graphene blend; providing the sphere with a color sensitive to the human eye; generating a hole pattern with uniformly spaced holes in the shell of the sphere; and fabricating a plurality of holes in the shell according to the hole pattern, the plurality of holes being symmetrically arranged on its surface. In one embodiment, the method includes rotational molding the sphere. In another embodiment, the method includes injection molding or 3D printing the sphere.

[0012] On the other hand, a pickball is provided for reducing the loudness and / or frequency of the sound generated when the pickball strikes a pickball racket.

[0013] On the other hand, a pick ball is provided that has a color configured to be more sensitive to the human eye.

[0014] On the other hand, a pick ball is provided having 26 to 40 holes of substantially the same diameter and shape, which are symmetrically distributed about the sphere of the pick ball.

[0015] In another aspect, a puck ball is provided having holes of substantially the same diameter and shape arranged symmetrically with respect to the puck ball, wherein the puck ball is made of a polymeric material infused with graphene. Attached Figure Description

[0016] This patent or application document contains at least one color drawing. Upon request and payment of the necessary fees, the Patent Office will provide a copy of this patent or patent application publication with one or more color drawings.

[0017] Embodiments of the apparatus, devices, methods, and assemblies are described in full with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0018] Figure 1 A perspective view of an embodiment of a pickball according to the present disclosure is shown.

[0019] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The front view of a pick ball.

[0020] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 The rear view of a pick ball.

[0021] Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 The right view of a pick ball.

[0022] Figure 5 It shows Figure 1 The left view of a pick ball.

[0023] Figure 6 It shows Figure 1 A top view of a pick ball.

[0024] Figure 7 It shows Figure 1 The bottom view of a pick ball.

[0025] Figure 8 A pick ball with a pattern of 40 evenly spaced holes is shown in multiple views. Center – front view; top – top view; left – left view; right – right view; bottom – bottom view. The diameter of the holes is 5.5 mm.

[0026] Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 Two views of a pick ball. The distance values ​​shown are in millimeters (mm). The minimum and maximum hole spacing are circled; 20.3mm – 24.3mm = a difference of 4.0mm.

[0027] Figure 10 Two views of a standard pick ball are shown. The distance values ​​shown are in millimeters (mm). The minimum and maximum hole spacing are circled; 25.0 mm – 13.7 mm = a difference of 11.3 mm.

[0028] Figure 11 A graph showing the deviation of a bouncing picket ball from its expected trajectory is displayed. The X and Y axes represent the deviation distance along the X and Y planes, which are perpendicular to the perfectly vertical bouncing ball. The picket ball used in the test was a Wilson Tru32. TM(X), Dura Fast 40 TM ( (Rhombus shape), Vulcan Vpro TM ( (round), Franklin X40 ( Square), 40-hole spheres with uniform spacing according to this disclosure ( triangle). Detailed Implementation

[0029] Many details are provided to provide an understanding of the examples described herein. These examples can be practiced without these details. The descriptions should not be considered as limiting the scope of the examples described herein.

[0030] A picket ball is made of a hollow plastic ball with a plurality of holes. The ball is a sphere. The embodiments described herein provide a picket ball for increasing durability, improving performance, and / or reducing the loudness and / or frequency of the sound produced when the ball strikes a racket. The embodiments described herein provide a picket ball made of a polymer material infused with graphene. The ball has a spherical shape. The ball has a spherical shell or layer defining a cavity. The shell or layer (e.g., providing the cavity of the ball) defines a plurality of holes distributed around the surface of the ball. The ball is a hollow sphere having a spherical layer that provides the surface of the ball. The spherical layer defines a plurality of holes and distributes these holes on the surface of the ball. In some embodiments, the spherical shell or layer defines holes equally (or approximately equally or nearly equally, taking into account threshold variations or tolerance thresholds) distributed on the surface of the ball. That is, the shell defines equally distributed holes such that there is an equal distance (or approximately equal or nearly equal, taking into account threshold variations or tolerance thresholds) between adjacent or neighboring holes. Equal distances (or approximately equal or nearly equal distances) may exist between adjacent or neighboring holes subject to threshold variations or tolerance thresholds in distance. On one hand, the spherical shell or layer defines holes of equal size and shape (or approximately equal or nearly equal, taking into account threshold variations). On the other hand, the sphere is made of a polymeric material infused with graphene. The embodiments described herein provide a hollow sphere comprising a spherical shell defining a cavity. The shell defines a plurality of holes distributed around the surface of the sphere. The shell defines holes for access to the cavity.

[0031] As used herein, a hollow sphere includes a spherical shell or layer therein encapsulating an internal spherical space. That is, a sphere can be spherically shaped with a spherical shell or layer defining a cavity that provides a spherical space within the sphere. A hollow sphere is a sphere having a hollow interior or cavity. A hollow sphere defines a space or cavity internally and is not solid. For a continuous, non-perforated hollow sphere, the spherical shell separates the internal spherical space from the external environment. The shell can define the internal space as a cavity. For a perforated hollow sphere, the shell or layer has a hole connecting the internal spherical space to the external environment. That is, the shell defines a hole through which the cavity of the sphere passes. In a preferred embodiment, the spherical shell includes a layer of material having a substantially uniform thickness. The spherical shell is the region between two concentric spheres of different radii. This region of the shell can have a substantially uniform thickness. The spherical shell defines a layer or surface. In one embodiment, the surface includes the outer or outer surface of the ball striking the racket. In one embodiment, the surface includes the spherical shell of material. The holes distributed on the surface of the sphere extend through the spherical shell that connects the internal spherical space to the external environment.

[0032] Peak balls can also be made of plastic, resin, and / or polymers. Different types of peak balls exist, such as indoor and outdoor balls. Indoor balls tend to be slightly lighter than outdoor balls and are made of a softer or thinner plastic. Additionally, indoor balls have larger holes, providing a softer feel and a slower ball movement for easier control. Outdoor balls, on the other hand, are stiffer and have smaller holes, resulting in a faster and harder bounce off the racket than indoor balls, and they are also less affected by wind. Since outdoor balls are typically also made of thicker plastic, this contributes to increased durability.

[0033] Therefore, key factors in the design of a peak ball include: weight, size, thickness, stiffness, and the number and size of the holes. Currently approved peak balls for competition require a diameter between 2.874 inches (7.30 cm) and 2.972 inches (7.55 cm), or a circumference between 9.03 inches (22.93 cm) and 9.34 inches (23.72 cm), and a weight between 0.78 and 0.935 ounces. Furthermore, peak balls should have 26 to 40 spaced holes, a hardness tester D rating between 40 and 50, and a bounce of 30 to 34 inches when dropped from a height of 78 inches. Currently, the Franklin X-40... TM It is the official peak ball of the Peaket Association of the United States and the U.S. Open.

[0034] These different factors can affect the amount of time a Peak ball remains or stays on the surface of the Peak ball racket when it is hit, which is described in the art as the "trampoline effect." When a Peak ball is in close contact with the surface, it can subsequently bounce off the surface. Therefore, improvements to the Peak ball should not increase or introduce the trampoline effect and must also remain within the limits required for competitive play.

[0035] Over time, peak balls wear down due to factors such as impacts, sunlight exposure, rough surfaces, and temperature. Over time, peak balls may become too soft to play, deform, and / or accumulate cracks, causing them to lose consistency during flight. In particular, peak balls are known to break more easily at low temperatures, significantly shortening their playable lifespan.

[0036] The inventors have developed an improved peak ball that enhances its durability while maintaining desired playing characteristics. In some embodiments, the improvement increases the number of impacts the peak ball can withstand before breaking, softening, or deforming. This improves the ball's durability. In some embodiments, these improvements maintain the peak ball's stiffness for an extended period. In some embodiments, these improvements allow the peak ball to retain its shape for an extended period. In some embodiments, these improvements allow the peak ball to withstand breakage for a longer period or reduce the likelihood of breakage. In some embodiments, these improvements allow the peak ball to withstand extreme environments or extreme temperatures for extended periods, such as uneven terrain, high temperatures, low temperatures, high sunlight exposure, high humidity, low humidity, and / or rapid temperature changes.

[0037] The inventors have also developed an improved pickle ball that controls or minimizes noise during play by reducing or altering the sound produced when the ball strikes the pickle racket. In some embodiments, the improvement reduces the decibel sound or loudness of the ball striking the pickle racket. In some embodiments, the improvement eliminates the sound of the ball striking the pickle racket. In some embodiments, the improvement attenuates the sound of the ball striking the pickle racket. In some embodiments, the improvement alters the sound of the ball striking the pickle racket. In some embodiments, the improvement alters the frequency sound of the ball striking the pickle racket. In one embodiment, the frequency sound of the ball striking the pickle racket is reduced from about 1200 Hz to 1000 to 500 Hz, 800 to 500 Hz, 800 Hz or lower, 700 Hz or lower, 600 Hz or lower, about 500 Hz, or about 400 to 500 Hz. In one embodiment, the improvement results in a sound decibel reduction of about 3 to 5 dB or about 25 to 40%, as perceived by the human ear.

[0038] The inventors have also developed an improved peakball that enhances the ball's performance during play. In some embodiments, the improvement increases the consistency of the ball during play. In some embodiments, the improvement allows for predictable or consistent ball movement or bounce when the ball strikes the peakball racket. In some embodiments, the improvement allows the ball to travel in a consistent arc through the air after being struck by the racket. In some embodiments, the improvement reduces variations in the arc path of the ball through the air due to wind turbulence.

[0039] Aside from providing the desired sound changes, durability, and / or performance, the improvements described herein do not alter performance to avoid any competitive advantage. For example, the improvements described herein avoid introducing additional spin to the ball or increasing the trampoline effect.

[0040] Graphene Injection

[0041] In some embodiments, the peak ball is modified to enhance durability while maintaining the same bouncing characteristics. This disclosure provides a peak ball made of graphene-infused plastic. The graphene infusion allows the peak ball to maintain the same bouncing characteristics while allowing at least 1.5 times, at least two times, or about two to three times more hits before breaking or deforming compared to a standard match Franklin ball. The inventors have also discovered that the additional durability provided by the graphene infusion also makes the peak ball more resistant to a wide range of temperatures, including extreme temperatures.

[0042] In some embodiments, the pickle balls are made of graphene and a polymer, preferably a plastic. Graphene is an allotrope of carbon, consisting of a single layer of atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice nanostructure. Graphene is considered the hardest or strongest material known, approximately 200 times stronger than steel, while being lighter than paper. Graphene is an extremely useful nanomaterial due to its extremely high tensile strength, electrical conductivity, transparency, and is the thinnest two-dimensional material in the world. In some embodiments, graphene is incorporated into the polymer as a very fine powder. In some embodiments, the graphene powder is white graphene powder. In one embodiment, the graphene powder is graphene oxide powder.

[0043] In some embodiments, the puck ball is made of graphene-infused polypropylene (PP). In some embodiments, the puck ball is made of graphene-infused polyethylene (PE). In one embodiment, the polyethylene is high-density polyethylene (HDPE). In some embodiments, the puck ball is made of graphene-infused PE copolymer. In one embodiment, the puck ball is made of graphene-infused PE and PP copolymer. In one embodiment, the puck ball is made of graphene-infused HDPE and PP copolymer. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of HDPE to PP in the copolymer is between 60 / 40 and 50 / 50. In one embodiment, the ratio of HDPE to PP in the HDPE and PP copolymer is approximately equal. In one embodiment, the HDPE and PP copolymer is a 50 / 50 copolymer by weight. In one embodiment, the HDPE and PP copolymer is a 55 / 45 copolymer by weight.

[0044] In one embodiment, the noise-reducing pickball is made of a graphene-infused HDPE / PP copolymer. In one embodiment, the copolymer is a 50 / 50 HDPE / PP copolymer. In one embodiment, the graphene-infused HDPE / PP copolymer pickball contains at least 0.001%, at least 0.01%, preferably 0.01% to 0.05%, and more preferably about 0.02% graphene by weight. The inventors have found that pickballs with too high a graphene content not only become too heavy but also result in a weaker overall structure and a sticky surface, thus affecting playing and manufacturing. For example, this sticky texture becomes noticeable when the graphene content of the pickball is greater than or equal to 0.04%. In one embodiment, the graphene-infused pickball contains about 0.03% graphene.

[0045] In some embodiments, the spheres of the picket ball are made of graphene-infused low-density polyethylene (LDPE). In one embodiment, the LDPE has a hardness value of about 40 to 50, or preferably about 45 to 48, based on the Shore D scale of the plastic. In a preferred embodiment, the LDPE has a hardness value of about above 50, or about 50 to 55, based on the Shore D scale. Hardness in these ranges indicates that the material is relatively soft, allowing the LDPE to exhibit an ideal balance between flexibility, toughness, and durability. LDPE (low-density polyethylene) comes in various grades and types, each with its own characteristics, making them more suitable for certain applications than other types. These differences can be reflected in density, melt flow rate (MFR), molecular weight distribution, and degree of branching. Density: Different grades of LDPE may have slightly different densities, thus affecting their rigidity and flexibility. Melt Flow Rate (MFR): MFR indicates how easily a polymer flows during processing. Different applications may require LDPE with different MFRs, depending on the processing techniques used and the desired performance of the final product. Molecular Weight: Molecular weight and its distribution affect properties such as toughness, tensile strength, and impact strength. Branching: The degree of branching affects density, which in turn affects physical properties. More branching generally results in lower density and makes the polymer more flexible and resilient. Additives: LDPE can be modified with various additives to enhance certain properties, such as UV resistance, antistatic properties, or color changes. Copolymers: LDPE can be copolymerized with other olefins to achieve different properties. For example, LLDPE (linear low-density polyethylene) can be copolymerized with butene, hexene, or octene to achieve better tensile strength and puncture resistance than LDPE. Clarity: Different grades may offer different levels of clarity / transparency, which can be a key factor for some packaging applications. Processing Methods: LDPE suitable for different processing methods such as blow molding, injection molding, or film extrusion may have different properties. End-Use Applications: Depending on the end-use, LDPE can be customized, for example, to make heavy-duty bags more durable or safer for food contact applications.

[0046] refer to Figures 1 to 7The invention provides exemplary durable-enhanced pickballs. In one embodiment, the durable-enhanced pickball is made of graphene-infused LDPE. In one embodiment, the graphene-infused LDPE has a Shore D hardness value of about 50 to 55. In one embodiment, the graphene-infused LDPE pickball contains at least 0.001%, at least 0.01%, preferably 0.01% to 0.05%, or more preferably about 0.02% graphene by weight. In one embodiment, the graphene-infused pickball contains about 0.03% graphene. In one embodiment, the durable-enhanced pickball is made of graphene-infused HDPE and PP copolymer. In one embodiment, the copolymer is a 50 / 50 HDPE / PP copolymer. In one embodiment, the graphene-infused HDPE / PP copolymer pickball contains at least 0.001%, at least 0.01%, preferably 0.01% to 0.05%, or more preferably about 0.02% graphene by weight. In one embodiment, the graphene-infused pickball contains approximately 0.03% graphene. For better visual inspection, the durable pickball is finished in neon green, such as Pantone 802.

[0047] The durability of an exemplary durable-enhanced Peak ball, containing graphene-infused LDPE, was tested using an impact test. Each ball was impacted at 3000 RPM, a test speed of 115 km / h, and a test force of 2.6 kg. Ten balls were each impacted 800 times, then each was impacted again 800 times. A total of 10 balls were impacted 1600 times (a total of 16,000 impact tests), and the balls showed no obvious deformation or cracking. Each ball also underwent an impact test at 3000 RPM, a test speed of 115 km / h, and an impact force of 2.6 kg. Ten balls were tested 800 times each, then each was tested an additional 800 times. A total of 10 balls completed 1600 impacts each (i.e., a total of 16,000 impact tests). The balls showed no obvious deformation or cracking.

[0048] A bounce test was also conducted on exemplary durability-enhanced Peak balls incorporating graphene-infused LDPE. Twenty balls, each weighing 26g and with a diameter of 74 to 75mm, were used. Each ball measured a Shore D hardness of 51 to 55 at three points (on the cut surface, cross-section, and in the middle of the die) using a Shaw hardness tester A-2132. The 20 balls were dropped vertically from a height of 190cm onto a granite slab, and the bounce was recorded. The rebound height of the balls ranged from 75 to 90cm. Further impact tests were performed on 14 balls, with 4200 impacts per ball. For each ball, the impact speed was 3000rpm, the test speed was 115km / h, and the test force was 2.6KG. The balls did not break, only slightly deformed.

[0049] A bounce test was performed on exemplary durability-enhanced Peak balls containing graphene-infused HDPE and PP copolymers. Forty-one balls, each weighing 25 to 26 g and with a diameter of 73 to 74 mm, were used. Each ball measured a Shore D hardness of 46 to 50 at three points (vertical section, cross section, and the middle of the die) using a Shaw hardness tester A-2132. Twenty balls were dropped vertically from a height of 190 cm onto a granite slab, and the bounce was recorded. The balls bounced back to a height of 75 to 85 cm.

[0050] As a control, 10 Dura 40 samples were compared. TM The peak ball and 10 Franklin TM The peaked balls underwent a similar test. In the hitting test, each ball was spun at 3000 revolutions per minute, the test speed was 115 kilometers per hour, and the test force was 2.6 kilograms. Each of the 20 balls was hit 600 times, then each ball was hit again 200 times. In total, each of the 20 balls was hit 800 times (a total of 16,000 hits). The balls slightly deformed, losing their spherical shape, but did not break. Franklin TM The control ball has a Shore D hardness value of 47 to 52. (Dura 40) TM The control balls have Shore D hardness values ​​of 51 to 56. (This is related to 27 Franklin...) TM The bounce height obtained from controlled ball bounce tests ranged from 78 to 83 cm. (This was applied to 28 Dura40 balls.) TM The bounce height obtained from the controlled ball bounce test was 81 to 86 cm.

[0051] In some embodiments, improved pickle balls with colors that are more sensitive to the human eye are provided. In some embodiments, improved pickle balls with neon colors are provided. In some embodiments, improved pickle balls with colors in which the colored pigments do not alter the ball's motion characteristics are provided. The inventors have discovered that certain pigment compounds, when incorporated into pickle balls, can affect the ball's performance. In one embodiment, improved pickle balls in neon green (such as Pantone 802) or neon orange are provided. In one embodiment, improved pickle balls in deep yellow or honey yellow are provided.

[0052] Hole Configuration

[0053] The inventors have discovered that the size of the hole in a pickle ball affects the sound produced during play. In particular, larger holes have been found to significantly reduce the sound produced when a pickle ball strikes a pickle racket. However, standard pickles are made of materials that cannot provide the necessary structure for larger holes, and therefore crack or deform after only a few impacts. Therefore, in some embodiments, this disclosure also provides an improved ball with graphene to improve the ball's durability.

[0054] In some embodiments, the pickle ball provided herein has a hole with a larger diameter than that of a standard pickle ball (i.e., a Franklin ball). The inventors have found that the larger hole also reduces noise. In one embodiment, all holes have a larger diameter. In one embodiment, some holes have a larger diameter. In one embodiment, at least one hole has a larger diameter. In some embodiments, the diameter of the hole is 5 to 8 mm. In one embodiment, the diameter of the hole is 5.5 to 6.5 mm.

[0055] The inventors have discovered that the shape and arrangement or placement of the holes affect the sound, durability, and / or performance of a pickle ball. Specifically, pickles with highly symmetrically arranged holes (such as at least 80%, at least 90%, and / or at least 95% symmetry) exhibit reduced sound, increased durability, and / or improved performance. As used herein, “symmetry” in a pickle ball refers to a ball with a hole arrangement in which the distance between the holes is approximately equal to the distance between them.

[0056] The embodiments described herein provide a sphere having a spherical shape. The sphere has a spherical shell or layer defining a cavity. The shell or layer (e.g., providing the cavity of the sphere) defines a plurality of holes distributed around the surface of the sphere. The spherical layer defines the holes and distributes them on the surface of the sphere in such an arrangement that the holes are distributed equally (or approximately equally or nearly equally, taking into account threshold variations) on the surface of the sphere. That is, the shell defines equally distributed holes such that there is an equal distance between adjacent or neighboring holes (or approximately equal or nearly equal, taking into account threshold variations). The distance between the holes may have threshold variations, making them nearly equal, and some minor variations in the distance between the holes are acceptable. On one hand, the embodiments described herein provide a sphere having a spherical shell or layer defining holes of equal size and shape (or approximately equal or nearly equal, taking into account threshold variations). On the other hand, the sphere is made of a polymeric material infused with graphene. The embodiments described herein provide a hollow sphere comprising a spherical shell defining a cavity. The shell defines a plurality of holes distributed around the surface of the sphere. The shell defines holes for access to the cavity.

[0057] A spherical shell separates an internal spherical space from the external environment. The shell can define the internal space as a cavity. The shell or layer has openings connecting the internal spherical space to the external environment. That is, the shell defines openings through which the cavity of the sphere passes. In some embodiments, the spherical shell comprises a layer of material having a substantially uniform thickness. The spherical shell is the region between two concentric spheres of different radii. The shell region of the sphere may have a substantially uniform thickness. Openings distributed on the surface of the sphere extend through the spherical shell connecting the internal spherical space to the external environment.

[0058] In some embodiments, a pickle ball is provided having holes patterned or arranged on its surface such that the holes are (approximately or nearly) equally spaced and symmetrically arranged. Symmetry may refer to the equal distance between each pair of holes. These holes are symmetrically arranged across the entire surface of the ball. In some embodiments, the pickle ball has holes distributed in a spherical pattern, wherein the distance between each pair of adjacent holes is equal. In some embodiments, the pickle ball has holes distributed in a spherical pattern, wherein the distance between each pair of adjacent holes is approximately equal within a tolerance threshold or difference range. In some embodiments, the pickle ball has holes distributed in a spherical pattern, wherein the radial angle between each pair of adjacent holes is equal. In some embodiments, the pickle ball has holes distributed in a spherical pattern, wherein the radial angle between each pair of adjacent holes is equal within a tolerance threshold or difference range. In some embodiments, the pickle ball has holes distributed in a spherically repeating pattern, wherein the distance between each pair of adjacent holes is equal. In some embodiments, the balls of a pickle have holes distributed in a spherically repeating pattern, wherein the distance between each pair of adjacent holes is approximately equal within a tolerance threshold or a variation range. In some embodiments, the balls of a pickle have holes distributed in a regular pattern, wherein the distance between each pair of adjacent holes is equal. In some embodiments, the balls of a pickle have holes distributed in a regular pattern, wherein the distance between each pair of adjacent holes is approximately equal within a tolerance threshold or a variation range. In some embodiments, the balls of a pickle have holes distributed in a uniform manner, wherein the distance between each pair of adjacent holes is equal. In some embodiments, the balls of a pickle have holes distributed in a uniform manner, wherein the distance between each pair of adjacent holes is approximately equal within a tolerance threshold or a variation range. In some embodiments, the balls of a pickle have equally distributed holes on their spherical surface, wherein the distance between each pair of adjacent holes is equal. In some embodiments, the balls of a pickle have equally distributed holes on their spherical surface, wherein the distance between each pair of adjacent holes is approximately equal within a tolerance threshold or a variation range.

[0059] A ball with symmetrical and / or uniformly distributed holes enables more efficient kinetic energy distribution and provides a more predictable and consistent game. In some embodiments, the holes are circular. In other embodiments, the holes are non-circular. In some embodiments, all holes are of the same shape and size. Typically, a pickle ball has approximately 26 to 40 holes. Professional pickleball associations also require balls to have 26 to 40 holes. For each specific number of holes, the pickle ball will have a different hole pattern so that the holes are evenly distributed. In one embodiment, a ball with a 32-hole pattern is provided. In another embodiment, a ball with a 40-hole pattern is provided.

[0060] The inventors have discovered useful applications for the arrangement of points on a sphere. See Peake et al. (“Equal Spacing of N Points on a Sphere and Its Application in the Unit Split Wave Diffraction Problem,” Durham University, School of Engineering and Computational Science). An example procedure describing spaced points on a sphere is described in its entirety and is incorporated herein by reference. Starting with a target number of holes, a pattern or arrangement is determined based on equal spacing and applied to the sphere of a picket ball. In one embodiment, the sphere of a performance-enhanced picket ball has a 32-hole pattern. In one embodiment, the sphere of a performance-enhanced picket ball has a 40-hole pattern, as shown below. Figure 8 As shown. The 32-hole pattern has a hole distribution error of approximately 2.7 mm, where the distance between any two adjacent holes varies by approximately 2.7 mm. The 40-hole pattern has a hole distribution error of approximately 4 mm, where the distance between any two adjacent holes varies by approximately 4 mm or at most 4 mm (see...). Figure 9 ).on the contrary, Figure 10 The image illustrates an exemplary prior art pick ball with a non-uniform hole spacing, wherein the distance between any two adjacent holes varies by a maximum of 11.3 mm. In some embodiments, for each number of holes in the pattern, a specific tolerance threshold is provided based on the number of holes and varies according to the number of holes.

[0061] Existing hole patterns include Tru 32 from Wilson Sporting Goods. TM And a ball from Joola Heleus. Tru 32 TM It is a 32-hole ball, and the hole spacing is determined by a simple geometric pattern, including two pole holes and four sets of holes arranged in staggered rings between the two pole holes. Tru 32 TM The Joola Heleus sphere has a hole distribution error of approximately 5 mm, where the distance between any two adjacent holes varies by approximately 5 mm. It is a 40-hole sphere that uses the Fibonacci algorithm to create a spiral arrangement of holes. The Joola Heleus sphere has a hole distribution error of approximately 8 mm, where the distance between any two adjacent holes varies by approximately 8 mm. Tru 32 TM Neither the Joola Heleus pickballs nor the spheres contain any graphene. The 32-hole patterned pickballs according to this disclosure are similar to Tru 32. TM Compared to the Joola Heleus ball, the 40-hole patterned pick ball exhibits a 50% performance improvement, while the 40-hole patterned pick ball according to this disclosure exhibits a 20% performance improvement.

[0062] Bouncing tests were conducted to illustrate how the hole pattern and / or hole spacing described herein minimizes ball flight deviation compared to existing pickball designs and constructions. See also Figure 11This study provides a chart comparing the performance of various pickles when dropped and bounced off a flat surface. The testing method involves dropping a pickle vertically from a vacuum-powered clamp 141 inches above a flat, horizontal quartz plate. The ball bounces off the flat surface, and its X and Y Cartesian coordinates are recorded at the point of contact and the apex of the bounce. The Cartesian coordinates at the point of contact and the apex are parallel planes, but offset perpendicularly (along the Z-axis) from the flat surface. Two slow-motion cameras work against a background marked with distance markers to determine the ball's trajectory. The coordinates of the apex are compared to the coordinates of the point where the ball contacts the plate, and the difference is plotted. A perfectly vertical bounce trajectory will show a apex deviation of 0, 0, or no deviation from the vertical direction (in other words, the apex is perfectly vertically aligned above the point of contact on the flat surface). Conversely, an imperfect bounce trajectory will deviate from this perfect vertical direction.

[0063] Results: Based on the uniformly spaced 40-hole spheres of this disclosure ( Figure 11 The triangular data points in the diagram show a bounce deviation of + / - 4 inches in both the X and Y directions relative to a perfect vertical bounce. In contrast, existing Peakballs exhibit bounce deviations as high as 9 to 10 inches in each direction. Low deviations in the expected trajectory are particularly important and desirable because players expect the ball to follow a predictable and consistent path after being struck with a Peakball racket. When the deviation is greater than 4 inches (such as the Franklin x40 which has a deviation of approximately 10 inches in both directions), players must exert considerable effort to adjust their Peakball racket grip to strike the ball correctly. In some extreme deviations, players may be unable to react in time, resulting in random and unpredictable ball trajectories, leading to inconsistent play. In short, existing Peakballs experience significant deviations from their expected bounce trajectory that cannot be compensated for or recovered by any level of skill. The Peakball described in this paper offers a solution to eliminate or reduce random ball trajectories caused by variations in the bounce trajectory. Ultimately, the increased predictability of the ball's trajectory provided by the Peakball described in this article allows players to focus on skill rather than random factors in the game.

[0064] Manufacturing improved pickballs

[0065] The embodiments described herein provide a method for manufacturing a sphere having symmetrically arranged holes. The method includes generating a hole pattern with uniformly spaced holes on a layer of the sphere, and symmetrically arranging a plurality of holes on its spherical shell or surface according to the hole pattern. In some embodiments, the method includes formulating a sphere of a blend of polymer and graphene, and / or providing the sphere with a color sensitive to the human eye. The method may employ a process that defines a point distribution on the surface of the sphere such that these points are equidistant from each other (or approximately equidistant).

[0066] This process may involve determining the total number of holes in the sphere and calculating the hole pattern. For example, the sphere may have 40 holes symmetrically arranged on its surface, defined by the sphere's shell. As another example, the sphere may have 32 holes symmetrically arranged on its surface, defined by the sphere's shell. Given that each hole is approximately equidistant from other adjacent holes on the sphere, the hole pattern can vary depending on the total number of holes in the sphere. In some embodiments, the distance between the holes may be approximately or approximately equal within a tolerance threshold or a range of variation.

[0067] The improved pickball described herein is manufactured by injection molding, rotational casting or rotational molding, or 3D printing. In a preferred embodiment, the improved pickball described herein is manufactured by rotational casting or rotational molding. Compared to injection molding, rotational casting has the advantage of producing a one-piece cast sphere. In the case of injection molding, the two hemispheres of the ball are molded separately and then joined together. This creates a weakness at the joint of the two hemispheres. In one embodiment, the noise control ball is manufactured by injection molding.

Claims

1. A pickball for increasing durability, improving performance and / or reducing the loudness and / or frequency of sound produced when the ball strikes a racket, the ball being a hollow ball comprising a spherical shell defining a cavity, the ball being made of a polymeric material infused with graphene, and the shell defining a plurality of holes distributed around the surface of the ball.

2. The ball of the pickle according to claim 1, wherein the material is graphene-infused plastic.

3. The ball of the pickle according to claim 2, wherein the material is a copolymer infused with graphene.

4. The ball of the pickle according to claim 3, wherein the copolymer comprises polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE).

5. The ball of the pickle according to claim 4, wherein the copolymer comprises PP and high-density polyethylene (HDPE).

6. The sphere of the pickle according to claim 5, wherein the copolymer comprises 50 / 50 HDPE and PP by weight.

7. The ball of the pickle according to claim 2, wherein the material is graphene-injected polyethylene (PE).

8. The ball of the pickle according to claim 7, wherein the polyethylene is low-density polyethylene (LDPE).

9. The ball of the pickle according to claim 8, wherein the LDPE has a Shore D hardness value of about 50 to 55.

10. The sphere of the pickball according to claim 2, comprising at least 0.01% by weight of graphene and the remainder of plastic.

11. The sphere of the pickle according to claim 10, comprising about 0.01% to 0.05% by weight of the graphene and the remaining plastic.

12. The sphere of the pickle according to claim 10, comprising about 0.02% by weight of the graphene and the remaining plastic.

13. The sphere of the pickle according to claim 10, comprising about 0.03% by weight of the graphene and the remaining plastic.

14. The sphere of the pickle according to claim 10, wherein the graphene is a white graphene powder.

15. The ball of the pickle according to claim 1, wherein the shell defines a plurality of holes in a patterned distribution, and wherein the pattern produces equally spaced holes.

16. The ball of the pickle according to claim 1, wherein the shell defines the plurality of holes symmetrically arranged on its surface.

17. The ball of the pickle according to claim 15, wherein the shell defines 32 or 40 holes.

18. The ball of the pickle according to claim 1, having a color that is sensitive to the human eye.

19. The ball of the pickle according to claim 18, having a neon green, neon orange, deep yellow or Pantone 802 color.

20. The sphere of the pickle according to claim 1, wherein the holes have substantially the same size and shape.

21. A sphere of a picket ball, said sphere being a hollow sphere comprising a spherical shell defining a cavity, said shell defining a plurality of holes arranged on its surface in a hole pattern of uniformly spaced holes to provide a symmetrical arrangement of the holes.

22. The ball of claim 21, wherein the shell defines the holes in the hole pattern, the holes being spaced apart, wherein any two adjacent holes in the hole pattern are spaced apart at equal distances within a tolerance threshold.

23. The pick ball of claim 22, having 40 holes, wherein the tolerance threshold is at most 4 mm.

24. The pickball of claim 21, wherein the shell defines the hole having the same or substantially similar shape and size.

25. A pick ball for increasing durability and / or reducing the loudness and / or frequency of sound produced when the pick ball strikes a pick ball racket, the pick ball having a symmetrical arrangement of holes distributed around its surface, wherein the housing defines the holes such that any two adjacent holes are spaced apart at equal distances within a tolerance threshold.

26. The pick ball according to claim 24, wherein the arrangement of the holes has at least 80%, more preferably at least 90%, symmetry.

27. The pick ball according to claim 25, having at least 95% symmetry.

28. A method for making a ball, the method comprising: A formulation comprising a polymer and graphene blend is prepared to provide the sphere with a color sensitive to the human eye, to generate a hole pattern with uniformly spaced holes in the shell of the sphere, and to manufacture a plurality of holes symmetrically arranged on the surface of the shell according to the hole pattern.

29. The method of claim 28, further comprising rotomolding the ball.

30. The method of claim 28, comprising injection molding or 3D printing the sphere.

Images