Inflatable ball

Abstract

To provide a ball, particularly, a soccer ball, having preferable properties including an improved control level at a shoe and also a balanced Magnus effect in the air leading to a controlled degree of swerve that reduces so-called fluttering.SOLUTION: The present invention relates to an inflatable ball, particularly, a soccer ball, having an outer shell comprising panels. The panel includes at least one surface texture. At least a subset of the panel includes indentations in addition to the surface texture. The indentations have a shape different from a shape of the surface texture.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1a

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an inflatable ball, particularly a soccer ball, having an outer shell including panels. do. [Background technology]

[0002] High quality balls generally have an outer shell made up of multiple prefabricated panels. The panels are hereinafter defined as separate prefabricated panels forming less than half of the ball shell. It is understood that the part was created for this purpose.

[0003] The panels may be attached, for example, by stitching their edges or by gluing them to the surface of the carcass. The edges of the panels must be aligned in a straight line relative to each other. Adhesive bonding or (laser) welding are also possible. For simplicity, it is assumed that the panels are Whether they are actually sewn together or they form the outer shell of the ball Two adjacent parts, whether or not they are fixed relative to each other in any other way for The areas where the flannel meet each other are referred to below simply as "seams."

[0004] In the past, the shells of soccer balls were typically shaped like pentagons and hexagons, respectively. The structure was made up of 32 panels with a number of small panels. A significant portion of the time required for construction was spent on suturing. , a labor-intensive step in the manufacturing process that is done by hand to deliver high-quality balls. However, balls with large panels can have negative flight characteristics, e.g., instability. It was also recognized that this could result in qualitative differences. Nevertheless, the trend is clearly toward fewer The trend is toward larger panels. But because of aerodynamics, the larger, smoother There may be unintended and unpredictable flutter motion of a ball with a flexible surface panel. Such aerodynamic effects essentially undermine controlled play and precision shots. In addition, the smooth surface of the panel makes it easy to see the impact of, for example, the ball dribbling. It also reduces the level of control Kerr has over the ball in his shoes. The subject also applies to inflatable balls for other sports such as handball, volleyball, etc. arises.

[0005] Several attempts have been made in the past to improve the aerodynamic properties of the ball. For example: Prior art reference U.S. Pat. No. 4,318,544 discloses a method for assisting in the aerodynamic control of a ball. An outer shell having a plurality of indentations arranged to provide an air passage configuration for The prior art document, Belgian Patent No. 1,016, discloses a soccer ball having a well. The '122 patent describes a panel having recessed areas in the form of holes, embossed areas, or grooves. Further, the prior art references include U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0023664 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0023664. No. 0230468 and U.S. Pat. No. 8,617,011 disclose large elongated The rib-like recesses are shown. The recesses are formed by peripheral channels or seams as well as may include an internal flow passage.

[0006] Furthermore, the prior art document U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004 / 0142780 discloses A sports ball having an exterior pattern applied over the entire exterior surface of the ball, The pattern is made up of a number of equally spaced cavities of the same size. Also disclosed in the prior art is U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007 / 0136644. The '662 patent uses multiple air turbulence generating cavities distributed over most of the exterior surface of the envelope. The present invention relates to a soccer ball having a groove.

[0007] Further prior art can be found in Hong Sungchan et al., Effect of a soccer ball's surface texture on its aerodynamics and trajectories, 2018; Rogers David, A study of the relationship between surface features and the in-f light performance of footballs, UK 2011; Ward Matthew et al., Comparing the aer odynamic behavior of real footballs to a smooth sphere using tomographic PIV, 2 020; Belgian Patent No. 1016110; Belgian Patent No. 1016122 ;U.S. Patent No. 8,617,011;U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0230468 statement.

[0008] All of these existing structures generally have little effect on flight characteristics or ball control. However, they end up with balls with significantly increased swerve, or with very little In addition, the parallel grooves also help the player's shoes to move in a more swift direction. Based on whether it hits directly into a groove like the one in the picture or into a smoother area of ​​the shell. So far, no ideal balance has been found. It has not been done. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Pat. No. 4,318,544 [Patent Document 2] Belgian Patent No. 1,016,122 [Patent Document 3] US Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0230468 [Patent Document 4] U.S. Pat. No. 8,617,011 [Patent Document 5] US Patent Application Publication No. 2004 / 0142780 [Patent Document 6] US Patent Application Publication No. 2007 / 0117662 [Patent Document 7] Belgian Patent No. 1016110 [Non-patent literature]

[0010] [Non-Patent Document 1] Hong Sungchan et al., Effect of a soccer ball's surface texture on its aerodynamics and trajectories, 2018 [Non-Patent Document 2] Rogers David, A study of the relationship between surface features and the in-flight performance of footballs, UK 2011 [Non-Patent Document 3] Ward Matthew et al., Comparing the aerodynamic behavior of real footballs to a smooth sphere using tomographic PIV, 2020 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0011] Thus, it includes an improved level of control in the shoe, but also Air-balancing provides controlled swirl to reduce fluttering To provide a ball, particularly a soccer ball, having good properties including a well-balanced Magnus effect. Such a ball would allow for more precise play. This makes it possible to at least partially overcome the above-outlined disadvantages of the prior art. be overcome. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] The above-mentioned problems are solved by the subject matter of the independent claims of the present invention. Embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

[0013] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to an inflatable ball having an outer shell including panels, particularly a s The panel includes at least one surface texture, and a small portion of the panel includes a surface texture. At least the subset includes depressions in addition to the surface texture. It further has a shape different from that of tea.

[0014] Generally speaking, a moving object, such as a ball flying through the air, has a higher velocity on its front side than on its back side. The air flows smoothly over the contours at the front and finally escapes from the ball at the rear. The flying ball also passes through a turbulent wake region where the airflow fluctuates or sways. The size of the wake determines the drag force on the object. One or more surface textures on the outer shell of the ball affect the amount of ball This creates a thin turbulent boundary layer of air that clings to the surface of the This allows the ball to follow the surface a little further around the back of the ball, , reducing the size of the wake. Therefore, at least one surface texture is This results in a reduction in ball drag compared to balls with a surface, which allows for longer shots. It can be caused.

[0015] Despite the possibility of longer shots based on the surface texture of the panel, the inventors The present invention further improves ball flight by incorporating additional dimples on at least a subset of the panels. For example, the accuracy of the goalkeeper can be improved. Greatly improved ball trajectory prediction, which is crucial for every player on the field But it also allows live and television spectators to follow the action more easily. This makes for a more engaging and fun experience. Even the shooter can see the ball's flight. This allows for more reliable and more accurate shots. Unintended fluttering of the wheel can be reduced by the recess. This will facilitate the difficult decisions of players attempting long-distance shots, and the expansion of the invention The use of ceremonial balls makes the game even more exciting to watch.

[0016] In addition to improving flight behavior, at least one surface texture on the panel The present invention also provides an inflatable ball with improved control levels in a shoe. This allows for improved dribbling using the ball.

[0017] In some embodiments of the present invention, only a subset of the panels have, in addition to the surface texture, Thus, by carefully selecting the number of panels in the subset, The flying behavior of the inflatable ball can be precisely optimized by using the subset of panels. Careful placement of the ball on the outer shell of the inflatable ball improves the flight behavior of the inflatable ball. In particular, it allows for greater adjustment of the predictability of flight behavior.

[0018] Alternatively, all panels may include dimples in addition to the surface texture. More panels on the ball can increase the Magnus effect of the ball in the air. This results in increased swerve of the stretched ball.

[0019] The surface texture and the indentations can be positioned independently of each other on the panel. The pattern of the surface texture is not interrupted or significantly altered in the recesses. In this way, it is possible for the surface texture to be present in the recesses and vice versa. be.

[0020] The depressions may be polygonal, in particular essentially kite-shaped, rhomboidal or even square-shaped. Additionally or alternatively, elliptical, in particular essentially circular, depressions are also applicable. The inventors have discovered that the shape of the depression affects the flight behavior of the inflatable ball. The shape of either type of depression, whether polygonal or elliptical, is consistent with the ball trajectory of the present invention. The inventors found that polygonal depressions provide a slightly higher level of predictability. On the other hand, the elliptical dimples allow for a slightly higher ball speed. The term "essentially" as used herein means 5 to 10 It should be understood that this includes small deviations in the range of 100%. Deviations may occur due to, for example, material properties and and / or may be based on manufacturing uncertainties well known to those skilled in the art.

[0021] The recess may not be in contact with the panel edge and / or may be essentially in the center of the panel. For example, the recess may be located within a region at least 10 mm from the panel edge, preferably In most cases, the recess may have a minimum distance of 15 mm. Thus, the recess may be at the seam between the two panels. In addition, the outer shell of the inflatable ball shall not interfere with or adversely affect the The seams are generally positioned within a slight recess relative to the center area of ​​the panel. The depressions located within the central region of the panel have a greater effect on the flight behavior of the ball. It is possible.

[0022] The dimples may be non-uniformly distributed on each panel having the dimples. "In-homogeneously distributed" as used herein means that each panel is Areas with a greater number of depressions, as well as areas with fewer depressions or even It can be understood that the non-uniform distribution of depressions can also include areas that do not have depressions. It can be defined based on the average spacing between adjacent depressions. The average spacing between the dimples may be different within the first subset than within the second subset. As such, the density of the recesses can be varied across the panel. The term density is used in this application as When used in the context of a material, it refers to the number of pits per unit of surface area. The distribution of the dimples can further provide the ball with an optimized flight behavior. It can be individually adapted to the desired flight behavior.

[0023] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the depressions are uniformly distributed on each panel having depressions. In a uniform distribution, the average distance between adjacent depressions may be essentially constant. Deviations in the average distance between dimples on the panel of the order of 5% still correspond to a uniform distribution Preferably, but not exclusively, the elliptical shape may be referred to as The depressions having the same shape may be distributed uniformly on each panel of the subset. A uniform distribution of all the parameters is also applicable.

[0024] In some embodiments, each panel may include only one surface texture. The surface texture may be essentially uniformly distributed on each of the panels. In particular, each panel may have a different surface texture. This allows for a precise selection of different surface textures and / or different panels. The arrangement of different surface textures across the ball allows for highly individualized control of the inflatable ball's flight behavior. It can bring about adjustments.

[0025] The surface texture may have multiple different shapes. The different shapes may be grouped together. The formation may be formed by forming a formation. The different shapes may be distributed over the panel in a spatially uniform manner, so that a distribution of different shapes can be achieved over multiple fields. They may be repeated within the formation.

[0026] The shape of the surface texture can be the same on each panel. The level of control of the ball is approximately the same regardless of the location of the contact area on the outer shell. Preferably, each panel of the inflatable ball may include a surface texture.

[0027] Alternatively, at least some of the panels may include more than one surface texture. At least two surface textures on the panel at least partially overlap each other or are in contact with each other. Different surface textures on the same panel can affect flight behavior, footwear, More specific adaptation of the surface of the inflatable ball with respect to control in and other properties This may result in:

[0028] The maximum extent of at least one surface texture perpendicular to the surface of the inflatable ball is the maximum depth of the indentation. As described above, at least one surface texture may be formed. The particles, especially if distributed essentially uniformly on each of the panels, can be easily seen on the surface of the ball. This creates a thin turbulent boundary layer of air that clings to the surface. The large depth allows the thin boundary layer of air at the recessed panel to be intentionally disturbed. This creates the ability to influence the flight behavior of the ball according to the present invention. Depending on the depth, it can create greater stability of the ball in the air.

[0029] Each panel having a recess has at least two, preferably at least three, and more preferably More preferably, at least four distinct depression depths, depression lengths, depression widths, or the like. In a preferred embodiment, on each panel having a recess, , recess depth, recess length, recess width, or a combination of these from the panel interior area The term "from the inner region to the outer / edge region" may be used interchangeably. "Decreasing on average in the direction" generally refers to the same, but non-increasing, magnitude in the defined direction. Note that it is possible to have adjacent cavities of different sizes. Carefully changing the parameters of the group of cavities or dimples is a method to improve the flying behavior of the inflatable ball. The optimized parameters can be used to positively influence the It is found by standard experiments (in a laboratory, wind tunnel, etc.) or calculated using theoretical models. It is possible.

[0030] The recess length is 1.0 to 30.0 mm, preferably 1.5 to 20.0 mm, and more preferably 1.5 to 20.0 mm. More preferably, the length may vary from 2.0 to 10.0 mm. When used in a ball, it refers to the area of ​​the indentation between two points and two dimensions parallel to the surface of the inflatable ball. The greater of the modulo corresponds to the length. For example, for a (convex) kite-shaped depression, For a circular cavity, the length corresponds to the extent along the line of symmetry. For a circular cavity, the length corresponds to the diameter. For an elliptical shape, the length corresponds to twice the semi-major axis. The depression depth ranges from 0 to 10 mm, preferably 0-8 mm, and more preferably 0-6 mm. The width of the depression is 0.1 to 15.0 mm, preferably 0.2 to 7.5 mm, and more preferably Preferably, it may vary from 0.4 to 2.5 mm. As with the definition of length, the width is determined by the surface area. For example, for a kite-shaped cavity, , the width corresponds to the maximum extension between the two corners perpendicular to the main extension direction. The inventors believe that the ranges listed are based on the impact on flight behavior. It has been found that this results in a depression that is not too small so as not to cause a noise. The area produces different responses on the shoe depending on whether it is on the panel of the subgroup or not. It is not too big / deep to be disturbed.

[0031] The flight behavior of the inflatable ball, and in particular the predictability of the flight behavior, depends on the location of the depressions on the panel, the depressions, The shape of the indentations, the depth of the indentations, the distance of the indentations relative to each other, or a combination of these Preferably, the shortest distance between two adjacent recesses on the same panel. is 0.5 to 45.0 mm, preferably 1.0 to 30.0 mm, and most preferably In this way, the depression may affect the flying behavior, particularly the flying behavior Optimally coordinate to favorably affect the predictability of

[0032] Each panel may include an outer layer comprising polyurethane (PU). Each panel may include a foam material, preferably Preferably, the inner layer includes ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). In some embodiments, at least some of the recesses on each panel having recesses are partially recessed. The at least one surface texture may extend solely into the outer layer.

[0033] The inflatable ball may further include a carcass. The carcass covers a surface of the inner bladder. The bladder provides the required airtightness of the ball, and the carcass stabilizes the bladder and protects it from the outside. Provides impact protection. The carcass also provides additional contractile forces towards the inner bladder.

[0034] In some embodiments, the panels and carcass are coated with an adhesive, preferably comprising latex. The panel edges of adjacent panels may be at least partially spray coated with a thermal barrier. They can be connected to each other via activated junctions.

[0035] The indentations may be applied after the panel formation process, which may include applying a This corresponds to the process by which the inner and outer layers are bonded together. No modification of the representative machine for panel production is required to manufacture the panel, which allows the manufacturing process to be In addition, the reuse of existing machinery improves the cost efficiency of the manufacturing process. The overall carbon footprint of the material is reduced. Preferably, the recesses are formed by a press having protrusions. The laminate may be produced by pressing a sheet onto at least one panel.

[0036] The subset may be any combination of less than 32 panels, preferably less than 24 panels, and most preferably less than 32 panels. Preferably, the number of panels not in the subset is equal to or greater than 12. Fewer than 24 panels, preferably fewer than 16 panels, and most preferably less than 8 panels. As mentioned above, fewer larger panels may be required during production. The amount of stitching is reduced, making the inflatable ball of the present invention more cost effective.

[0037] The maximum extent of at least one surface texture perpendicular to the surface of the inflatable ball is 1.5m m, preferably less than 1.0 mm, and more preferably less than 0.5 mm. The shape of at least one surface texture may be a polygon, preferably a quadrilateral. The maximum length of a side of a polygonal surface texture should be less than 20 mm, preferably less than 15 mm, More preferably, it may be less than 10 mm.

[0038] The total surface roughness volume of the inflatable ball is 7000~30000mm 3 , preferably 14 000~25000mm 3 , and more preferably, 18,000 to 22,000 mm 3 Example The total roughness volume according to the present invention is best explained by starting from the base sphere. The base sphere has a smooth panel, i.e., no particular surface texture. The smallest possible cavity that encloses an (ideal) inflatable ball, with no cavities or dimples. The total roughness volume is then determined by the base sphere and the surface of the ball. The total roughness volume corresponds to the absolute value of the difference in volume between the volume of the base sphere and the volume of the inflatable ball. A first volume, e.g., a seam, a depression, and / or a recessed surface of an inflatable ball. Note that the total roughness volume can include volume differences based on surface texture. A second volume, e.g., one or more raised surface textures, outside the base sphere. In these embodiments, the total roughness volume can further include a volume difference based on the first and second roughnesses. Alternatively, the total surface texture may be determined in particular by the sum of the absolute values ​​of the first volume and the second volume. For surface textures, it may consist of only the first volume. Therefore, the total roughness volume is , depending at least on the indentations, surface texture, and / or seams. For a ball with a total roughness volume within the specified range, The critical Reynolds number of the ball is the point at which the flight behavior of the ball is essentially independent of its drag. It has been found that the drag force can be shifted towards lower speeds, resulting in a greater reduction in the ball's flight behavior. At higher speeds, essentially constant drag over a range of speeds is appropriate In this way, the prediction of the ball trajectory can be greatly improved. , unintended fluttering of the ball can be reduced.

[0039] For example, when developing a new inflatable ball according to the present invention, the roughness and volume of the seams were first Then, to produce a total roughness volume within the above-mentioned range advantageously defined, A plurality of depressions and / or at least one surface texture that meets the required roughness volume. Texture can be added. Dimples and / or at least one surface texture Preferably, the recesses and surface textures are as described herein. Respond.

[0040] Aspects of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: indicates the following: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0041] [Figure 1a] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment including a kite-shaped depression from three different perspectives. [Figure 1b] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment including a kite-shaped depression from three different perspectives. [Figure 1c] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment including a kite-shaped depression from three different perspectives. [Figure 2a] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment including an oval depression from three different perspectives. [Figure 2b] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment including an oval depression from three different perspectives. [Figure 2c] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment including an oval depression from three different perspectives. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is an exploded view of one embodiment showing the distribution of kite-shaped depressions. [Figure 4a] FIG. 2 is a to-scale impact zone diagram of one embodiment compared to a state of the art ball. [Figure 4b] FIG. 2 illustrates the impact zone of one embodiment compared to a state of the art ball. [Figure 5a] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a press plate having kite-shaped protrusions. [Figure 5b] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a press plate having kite-shaped protrusions. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a panel having kite-shaped depressions. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0042] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the invention will be described in more detail with reference to an inflatable ball. Specific feature combinations are described below with respect to exemplary embodiments of the invention. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to such embodiments. Not all features need be present to practice the invention, and an embodiment may include the features of one embodiment. Certain features may be modified by combining them with one or more features of other embodiments. do.

[0043] 1a-1c show one embodiment of an inflatable ball 100 according to the present invention from three different perspectives. The ball 100 may be a soccer ball. Although the present invention will be described with respect to a volleyball, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that these features may be readily understood by those skilled in the art to be consistent with the principles of the present invention. Easily adapted to a variety of other sports balls, such as volleyballs, handballs, or others The ball 100 has an outer shell that includes various panels 140, 150. The panels 140, 150 include a surface texture 120 on an outer layer. represents a regular pattern evenly distributed on each panel. Panel edges 130 are regular It can be seen that the prefabricated panels 140, 150 represent an interruption in the pattern. Assembling may be done with adhesive, through heat activated bonding, by stitching or sewing. The panel edges 130 can be joined together. The surface texture 120 is essentially quadrilateral with a longest side length of about 5 mm. The extent of the surface texture 120, which represents the maximum distance in the file, is less than 1 mm. 1a-1c show an embodiment having a uniformly distributed surface texture 120. However, in accordance with the present invention, different surfaces on the same panel or on adjacent panels may be used. Note that textures can also be applied.

[0044] A subset of panels 150 includes indentations 110 in addition to the surface texture 120 . Panels 140 that are not in the subset of panels 150 do not include such recesses 110 . As shown in Figures 1a-1c, the recess 110 has a shape similar to that of a kite. The shape belongs to the group of polygons (mathematically). The recess 110 is mainly formed by the panel 15. 0 in the center region of the panel 150, while the seams or edges of the panel 150 The edge region 170 close to 30 does not have depressions 110. Therefore, there is no regular surface texture. Compared to the matrix 120, the depressions 110 are non-uniformly distributed on each panel 150. The non-uniform distribution can also be understood based on the average spacing between adjacent depressions. 1a-c, and similarly, adjacent depressions in the central region of the panel as shown in FIG. The average spacing between the depressions is smaller at or near the edges. The density of is varied across the panel. In another embodiment of the invention (not shown), , a uniform distribution of pits is also envisaged. This is the case for pits having an elliptical shape (Figures 2a to 2c) This can be particularly beneficial for the

[0045] Inflatable ball 100 further includes a bladder, which may be covered by a carcass (not shown). For example, an air pump or compressor may be used to inflate the ball 100. A sealable opening 160 connected to the inner bladder extends through the carcass and the outer shell. During the manufacture of the ball 100, the panels 140, 150 and the carcass are Preferably, the pieces are spray-coated with an adhesive and then bonded together in a subsequent step. The adhesive can include latex.

[0046] The various features of the inflatable ball 100 described above, particularly the dimples 110 and surface texture, All 120 combinations offer improved control and more reliable flight behavior. In this manner, the surface texture 120 contributes to the ball 100 having a Not only does it increase the control of the ball 100 in the swing, but it also increases the possible range of the shot. The small vertical extent and essentially regularity of the surface texture 120 Based on the pattern, the ball is more resistant to wear than balls known in the art that have a smooth exterior surface. A thin turbulent boundary layer of air clings to the ball's surface, reducing the amount of drag on the ball by 100%. In addition, these known balls are especially popular in smaller but larger panels. If made, these are prone to fluttering during long-distance shots. The effect is very well suppressed by the inflatable ball 100 according to the present invention. Panel 15 The 110° recess at 0 creates a more balanced Magnus effect in the air, This results in a stable swirling degree. This can be understood as the main reason for reducing tarring. In this regard, for example, FIG. 1c, the arrangement of the recess 110 on the panel 150; the recess 110 the polygonal shape of the recesses 110, the depth of the recesses 110, the distance of the recesses relative to each other, or a combination thereof. The alignment results in a more stable, more predictable trajectory of ball 100.

[0047] The inventors have 3 For balls with a total roughness volume in the range The critical Reynolds number of a ball flying through the air is the number at which the ball's flight behavior depends on its drag. Qualitatively independent, or the degree to which the flight behavior of the ball depends on the drag is fairly small; This is because the air pressure is proportional to the speed of the air. The result is a higher drag force that is related to the flight behavior of the ball. At speed, an essentially constant drag force can be achieved over a range of speeds. This allows for a much improved prediction of the ball's trajectory. In addition, it also reduces the chance of unintended flutter of the ball. For example, when developing a new inflatable ball according to the present invention, To do this, the roughness volume of the seam can first be determined. Then, within the above-mentioned ranges advantageously defined, A plurality of depressions and / or recesses corresponding to the required amount of roughness volume to produce a total roughness volume. Or at least one surface texture may be added. At least one surface texture is preferably as described herein. Supports dents and surface textures.

[0048] 2a-2c show a semiconductor device having panels 240, 250 connected at an edge 230 of the panels. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a ball 200 having an outer shell that includes a panel 240. It includes a surface texture 220 and provides the same advantages as described with respect to panel 140. The panel 250 includes a recess 211 and provides advantages very similar to those described with respect to the panel 150. Compared to panel 150, panel 250 has a generally elliptical shape, subject to manufacturing uncertainties. The recess 211 may be formed in a substantially circular shape. 250, while the seams or edges 23 of the panel 250 The edge region 270 close to 0 does not have a dimple 211. Therefore, the dimple 1 of the ball 100 Similar to FIG. 10, the depressions 211 of the ball 200 are also non-uniformly distributed on each panel 250. This is due to the decrease in dimple density going from the center region of the panel 250 to the edge region 270. For example, as shown in FIG. 2a, the surface texture 220 and The recesses 211 can be positioned independently of one another on the panel 250. The pattern of the texture 220 is not interrupted or significantly altered in the depression 211 Thus, the surface texture 220 is present in the depression 220, and The reverse is possible, which is consistent with other embodiments described herein, e.g. The same is true for inflatable ball 100 with ridges 110 and surface texture 120. Inflatable ball 200 further includes a bladder, which may be covered by a carcass (not shown). For example, an air pump or compressor may be used to inflate the ball 200. A sealable opening 260 connected to the inner bladder extends through the carcass and the outer shell. As with ball 100, the flight behavior of ball 200 is as described above. It depends on the various parameters of the recess 211 as recited with respect to the recess 110.

[0049] FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of a panel configuration 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention. 0 shows a two-dimensional arrangement of the various panels 340, 350, similar to the development of a polyhedron. In biology, the development of a polyhedron is a process in which the surface of the polyhedron is folded (along its edges) to form its faces. This is a configuration of non-overlapping edge-jointed polygons in a plane that can be The flannel edge 330 is aligned on the bladder or carcass like a polygonal folding step, The panels 340, 350 are attached onto the bladder or carcass to provide the inflatable airbag of the present invention. The panel structure 300 includes 12 panels 350 having depressions 310. The recess 310 is essentially located within the central region of the panel 350. In other words, the density of the depressions 310 is The panel thickness is highest in the central region of the panel 350 and decreases in the direction towards the panel edge 330. 300 further includes eight panels 340 that do not include any recesses 310. In addition to the depressions 310 on the subset of panels 340, 35, all panels 340, 35 of the panel configuration 300 are 0 includes a surface texture (not shown in FIG. 3). The advantageous synergistic effects of the combination of agents are described above with respect to FIG. This is also true here.

[0050] Figure 4a shows a diagram of goal 400 showing, true to scale, impact zones 490-495 of various balls. 1 shows a partial view of the experimental apparatus of 0. The goals 400 are connected at 90°. The goal 400 includes a bar 480 and a post 482 that create a corner of the goal. The standard FIFA™ regulation is 2.44m. Various experiments under laboratory conditions comparing known balls with the inflatable ball of the present invention were carried out. In the first experiment, a robot was placed in an experimental setup that mimicked the leg movements of a player while kicking a ball. A swerve kick was performed using a typical soccer shoe attached to it. The speed of the wheels was set at 20 m / s, which is approximately 90 km / h (i.e. 25 m The ball speed was about 1 / s. The test was repeated 18 times using six different contact points on the shoe. The contact points were, for example, the panels. between the center of a panel, the edge / seam of a panel, the edge / seam points of more than two panels, etc. The trajectory of each ball was determined by video analysis. The air pressure for each ball was set at 0.8 bar. Set it up.

[0051] FIG. 4a shows a portion of the post 482 and bar 480 junction resulting from the video analysis described above. Shown are various elliptical impact zones 490-495 arranged. Impact zones 490-495 corresponds to the impact zones of the various tested balls, true to scale. For better visualization, each collision zone 490-495 is shown on the left side of FIG. 4a with respect to the other collision zones. The impact zones 490 and 491 are not shown overlapping, but are still shown true to scale. 491, all panels contain surface texture, with a subset of them additionally containing recesses. 4 corresponds to an embodiment of the inflatable ball according to the present invention, which includes the impact zone 490. The inflatable ball has a kite-shaped depression, while each of the depressions corresponding to the impact zone 491 The depressions are circular. The impact zones 492-495 are ball impact zones known in the art. It can be shown that polygonal indentations provide a higher level of predictability. On the other hand, in a second experiment (not shown), the inventors found that the elliptical depression For the ball, it has been found that the ball of the present invention allows for a slightly higher velocity.

[0052] FIG. 4b illustrates the size of each impact zone 490-495. In addition, for each ball, The size in square metres is indicated above each bar in the diagram. Therefore, the embodiment according to the present invention exhibits the smallest size of the impact zones 490, 491. A tight impact zone equally means a reliable flight behavior, especially with regard to the predictability of the flight behavior. Note that the small impact zone is not consistent with the ball shape known from many prior art balls. This further suggests a strong reduction in the rattling effect.

[0053] 5a and 5b show an embodiment of a press plate 500 according to the present invention from two perspectives. The manufacturing / creation process of the depression according to the present invention can be as follows: : A prefabricated panel is placed on the platen. Next, the platen having the protrusions 510 is A press plate, for example a press plate 500, is moved toward the panel, causing the panel to be pressed against the plate. The press plate 500 is sandwiched between the press plate 500 and the protrusion 51. 0 will be pressed into the outer surface of the panel, resulting in a dent. Plate 500 exhibits a kite-shaped protrusion 510 that results in an essentially kite-shaped depression on the panel. The protrusions 510 are arranged non-uniformly on the press plate 500. Based on the press plate edge 570 that does not exhibit the rise 510, the corresponding panel is also Therefore, the panel does not exhibit any depressions in the edge regions. 5 mm and produces a depression of 5 mm or less. Other shapes, especially oval shapes, other shapes Size, other distributions, in particular uniform distributions, or combinations of these may also be used in the present invention. Note that this is also applicable for the sprate.

[0054] FIG. 6 shows an embodiment of a panel 600 according to the present invention. For example, the panel 600 may be The panel 600 can be manufactured using a polyurethane. The inner layer preferably comprises an outer layer including an ethylene oxide film and an inner layer including a foam material. The panel 600 is non-uniformly arranged and includes a propylene diene monomer (not shown). The kite-shaped recess 610 has a minimum distance 615 of 1.5 mm to 15.0 m. The recesses 610 may extend at least into the inner foam layer. The extent of the texture (not shown) may be limited to the outer layer only. The maximum extent of the surface texture perpendicular to the face may be less than the maximum depth of the depression. As shown in FIG. 6, the size of the depression 610 varies from an interior or central region outward in a direction 675. Generally, the depression depth, depression length 612, 613, depression The widths 611, 614 or a combination of these can vary on a single panel. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the inner or largest recess is 9.2 mm long. 613 and a width 614 of 2.2 mm. The outer or smallest recess is 2. It has a length 612 of 3 mm and a width 611 of 0.5 mm.

[0055] Although the above embodiments and figures primarily show a single surface texture, adjacent More than one surface texture on the same panel or even on the same panel may be applied. It should be noted that the different panels of the inflatable ball according to the present invention can also be used. Additionally, embodiments may include combinations of different recess shapes on the same panel. For example, different shapes can be grouped against each other to build formations. The plurality of formations may be at least partially distributed across the panel. This allows the distribution of different shapes to be repeated in multiple formations. It may be as follows.

[0056] Below, further embodiments are described to facilitate understanding of the present invention: 1. Outer including panels (140, 150, 240, 250, 340, 350, 600) An inflatable ball (100, 200), in particular a soccer ball, having a shell, a. Panels (140, 150, 240, 250, 340, 350, 600) at least also contains one surface texture (120, 220), b. At least a subset of panels (150, 250, 350, 600) have the same surface texture. In addition to the stiches (120, 220), it also includes the recesses (110, 211, 310, 610). , c. The depressions (110, 211, 310, 610) are surface textures (120, 220 ) an inflatable ball having a shape different from that of the 2. Embodiment 1, in which only a subset of the panels includes indentations in addition to the surface texture. 2. An inflatable ball as described in claim 1. 3. The inflatable device of embodiment 1, wherein all panels include indentations in addition to the surface texture. Stretched ball. 4. The depressions are polygonal, in particular essentially kite-shaped, and / or elliptical, in particular essentially 4. An inflatable ball according to any one of the preceding embodiments, which is circular. 5. The recess is not in contact with the panel edge (130, 230, 330) and / or The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first and second electrodes are disposed essentially in a central region of the panel. Inflatable ball. 6. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the depressions are distributed non-uniformly on each panel having depressions. 1. An inflatable ball according to any one of claims 1 to 9. 7. The method of claim 1 to 5, wherein the depressions are uniformly distributed on each panel having depressions. 13. An inflatable ball according to any one of claims 1 to 12. 8. Any one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein each panel includes only one surface texture. Inflatable ball as described. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the surface texture is essentially uniformly distributed on each of the panels. Inflatable ball as described. 10. Any of embodiments 1 to 9, wherein the shape of the surface texture is the same on each panel. Inflatable ball as described in item 1. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein at least some of the panels include more than one surface texture. 7. An inflatable ball according to any one of claims 1 to 7. 12. At least one surface texture has a maximum extent perpendicular to the surface of the inflatable ball. 12. An inflatable ball according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the maximum depth of the inflatable ball is less than the maximum depth of the inflatable ball. 13. Each panel having a recess has at least two, preferably at least three, and and more preferably at least four distinct depression depths, depression lengths (612, 613 ), recess width (611, 614), or a combination thereof. 12. An inflatable ball according to any one of claims 1 to 12. 14. On each panel having a recess, record the recess depth, recess length, recess width, and These combinations are from the panel inner area to the outer / edge area (170, 370, 570) 14. The swelling of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the swelling decreases on average in the direction (675) toward the Stretched ball. 15. The recess length (612, 613) is 1.0 to 30.0 mm, preferably 1.5 2.0 to 10.0 mm, and more preferably, 2.0 to 10.0 mm. 15. An inflatable ball according to any one of the preceding claims. 16. The recess depth is 0 to 10 mm, preferably 0 to 8 mm, and more preferably 16. The inflatable ball according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the thickness of the ball varies from 0 to 6 mm. Ru. 17. The recess width (611, 614) is 0.1 to 15.0 mm, preferably 0.2 to 7.5 mm, and more preferably, varying from 0.4 to 2.5 mm. 17. An inflatable ball according to any one of claims 1 to 16. 18. The flight behavior of the inflatable ball, and in particular the predictability of the flight behavior, depends on the location of the depressions on the panel. , the shape of the indentations, the depth of the indentations, the distance of the indentations relative to each other, or a combination of these. 18. An inflatable ball according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the inflatable ball is inflatable with a diameter of 1 mm or less. 19. The shortest distance between two adjacent recesses on the same panel (615) is between 0.5 and 4 5.0 mm, preferably 1.0 to 30.0 mm, and most preferably 1.5 to 15 19. An inflatable ball according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the thickness of the ball is .0 mm. 20. Any of embodiments 1 to 19, wherein each panel comprises an outer layer comprising polyurethane PU. Or one of the inflatable balls listed. 21. Each panel is made of a foam material, preferably ethylene propylene diene monomer EPD. 21. An inflatable ball according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising an inner layer comprising M. 22. The method of embodiment 20 or 21, wherein at least some of the recesses extend partially into the upper surface of the inner layer. 22. An inflatable ball as described in 21. 23. The method of any one of embodiments 20 to 22, wherein at least one surface texture extends only into the outer layer. 1. An inflatable ball according to any one of claims 1 to 9. 24. The inflatable bottle of any one of embodiments 1 to 23, further comprising a carcass. rule. 25. The panels and carcass are at least partially coated with an adhesive, preferably containing latex. 25. An inflatable ball as described in embodiment 24, which is partially spray coated. 26. An embodiment in which the panel edges of adjacent panels are connected to each other via heat-activated bonds 26. An inflatable ball according to any one of claims 1 to 25. 27. Any of embodiments 1 to 26, wherein the indentations are applied after the panel formation process. Inflatable ball as described in item 1. 28. The recess is a plate (500) having a protrusion (510) and at least one panel. 28. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the composition is produced by pressing the composition onto a roll. Inflatable ball. 29. The subset has fewer than 32 panels, preferably fewer than 24 panels, and Most preferably, the inflatable film according to any one of the preceding embodiments 1 to 28 comprises 12 panels. Stretched ball. 30. The number of panels not in the subset is less than 24 panels, preferably less than 16 panels. 30. Any one of the preceding claims, wherein the number of panels is less than 1, and most preferably 8. Inflatable ball as described. 31. The maximum extent of at least one surface texture perpendicular to the surface of the inflatable ball is 1 Less than 0.5 mm, preferably less than 1.0 mm, and more preferably less than 0.5 mm. 31. An inflatable ball according to any one of the preceding embodiments. 32. At least one surface texture has a polygonal, preferably quadrilateral, shape. 32. An inflatable ball according to any one of the preceding embodiments. 33. The maximum length of a side of a polygonal surface texture is less than 20 mm, preferably less than 15 mm. 33. An inflatable ball according to embodiment 32, wherein the diameter of the inflatable ball is less than 10 mm, more preferably less than 10 mm. [Explanation of symbols]

[0057] 100, 200 Inflatable Balls 110, 211, 310, 610 recess 120, 220 Surface Texture 130, 230, 330 Panel edge 140, 150, 240, 250, 340, 350, 600 Panel 160, 260 Sealable opening 170, 270, 370 edge area 300 Panel Configuration 400 goals 480 Bar 481, 511 Height 482 Posts 490, 491, 492, 493, 494, 495 Collision Zone 500 Press Plate 510 Protrusion 570 Press plate edge 612, 613 Indentation length 611, 614 Hole width 615 Shortest Distance 675 directions

Claims

1. 1. An inflatable ball having an outer shell including panels, a. the panel includes at least one surface texture; b. at least a subset of said panels include indentations in addition to said surface texture; fruit, c. an inflatable ball, the indentations having a shape different from the shape of the surface texture; 。

2. only a subset of said panels include indentations in addition to said surface texture; or teeth 10. The inflatable vehicle of claim 1, wherein all panels include indentations in addition to the surface texture. Ceremony ball.

3. 3. The inflatable cushion of claim 1, wherein the depression is polygonal and / or elliptical. ball.

4. The depression does not contact the panel edge and / or is essentially in the central region of the panel.

4. The inflatable ball of claim 1 , wherein the inflatable ball is disposed within a space defined by a first gap.

5. the depressions are non-uniformly distributed on each panel having the depressions; or 5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the recesses are uniformly distributed on each panel having the recesses.

13. An inflatable ball according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

6. Each panel contains only one surface texture, and / or the shape of the surface texture is the same on each panel.

13. An inflatable ball according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

7. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein at least some of the panels include more than one surface texture.

13. The inflatable ball according to claim 12 .

8. The surface textures are grouped together to form formations. The formations may include a plurality of different shapes, the formations being at least partially formed within one or more of the formations. are distributed across a plurality of panels, such that the distribution of different shapes is 8. The method according to claim 1, wherein the same repeats in the formation of Inflatable ball.

9. The maximum extent of the at least one surface texture perpendicular to the surface of the inflatable ball is 9. The inflatable ball according to claim 1, wherein the maximum depth of the depression is less than the maximum depth of the depression. 。

10. Each panel having a recess has at least two distinct recess depths, recess lengths ... and / or On each panel having a recess, the recess depth, recess length, recess width, or These combinations decrease on average in a direction from the interior region to the exterior / edge region of the panel.

10. An inflatable ball according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The recess length varies from 1.0 to 30.0 mm, and / or The depression depth varies from 0 to 10 mm, and / or 11. Any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the recess width varies from 0.1 to 15.0 mm.

2. An inflatable ball as described in claim 1.

12. each panel comprises an outer layer comprising polyurethane PU; and / or The inflatable device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein each panel comprises an inner layer comprising a foam material. Stretched ball.

13. the subset comprises fewer than 32 panels; and / or 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the number of panels not in the subset is less than 24 panels.

13. An inflatable ball according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The maximum extent of the at least one surface texture perpendicular to the surface of the inflatable ball is 1 and / or 14. Any of claims 1 to 13, wherein at least one surface texture has a polygonal shape.

1. An inflatable ball as described in claim 1.

15. The total roughness volume of the surface of the inflatable ball is 7000 to 30000 mm ３ Range of 15. An inflatable ball according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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