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 having an outer shell including panels, particularly a soccer ball. to.

Background Art

[0002] High-quality balls generally comprise an outer shell composed of a number of prefabricated panels. The panels are understood hereinafter to be separately prefabricated parts that form less than half of the ball shell. to be.

[0003] The panels must be properly joined to each other, for example, by stitching their edges or by adhesion to the surface of the carcass. Direct adhesion or (laser) welding of the edges of the panels to each other is also possible. For simplicity, whether the panels are actually stitched together in a standard way or whether they are fixed to each other in another way to provide the outer shell of the ball, the area where two adjacent panels contact each other is simply referred to as a "seam" in the following description. in the following description. in the following description. in the following description. In the past, the shell of a soccer ball typically consisted of 32 panels having pentagonal and hexagonal shapes respectively.

[0004] Based on the large number of small panels, a significant portion of the time for ball manufacturing was required for stitching. Stitching is often a labor-intensive step in the manufacturing process that is done by hand to provide a high-quality ball. However, it has also been recognized that balls with large panels can have negative flight characteristics, for example, can cause instability. Nevertheless, the trend is clearly towards fewer​​ It is moving towards larger panels. However, due to aerodynamic effects, larger, smoother Unintended and unpredictable flutter motion can occur in balls with a flat surface panel. Such aerodynamic effects essentially impair controlled play and precise shots. It becomes immediately clear that... It also reduces the level of ball control that Kerr has with his shoes. The topic also includes inflatable balls for other sports such as handball and volleyball. To occur.

[0005] Several attempts have been made in the past to improve the aerodynamic properties of the ball. For example, Prior art document, U.S. Patent No. 4,318,544, describes assisting the aerodynamic control of a ball. The outer shell has multiple indentations arranged to create an air duct configuration. Discloses a soccer ball having a shell. Prior art document, Belgian Patent No. 1016 Specification No. 122 describes a panel having recessed areas in the form of holes, embossed areas, or grooves. This relates to football having [a certain characteristic]. Furthermore, prior art documents, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / U.S. Patent No. 0230468 and U.S. Patent No. 8,617,011 are large and elongated. It shows rib-like depressions. Multiple depressions represent multiple peripheral channels or seams and multiple It may include internal flow channels.

[0006] Furthermore, prior art documents, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004 / 0142780, A sports ball having an external pattern applied to the entire outer surface of the ball, The pattern is composed of multiple cavities of the same size, spaced evenly apart. The ball is disclosed. Similarly, prior art document, U.S. Patent Application Publication 2007 / 01 Specification No. 17662 describes multiple air turbulence generating depressions distributed over most of the outer surface of the outer skin. Regarding soccer balls that have a certain characteristic.

[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. 8617011; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0230468 statement.

[0008] All of these existing structures generally affect flight characteristics or ball control. They try to do so, but they are balls with a greatly increased swerve, or almost This creates either a trajectory without a swerve. Furthermore, parallel grooves also make the athlete's shoe... This depends on whether it hits a groove directly or a smoother area of ​​the shell. This affects the aimed shot. So far, an ideal balance has not been found.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0009]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Patent Document 4

Patent Document 5

Patent Document 6

Patent Document 7

Non-Patent Documents

[0010]

Non-Patent Document 1

Non-Patent Document 2

Non-Patent Document 3

[0011] Therefore, including an improved level of control in the shoes, also, A controlled swerve degree that reduces fluttering, resulting in a balanced airflow We offer a ball with excellent properties, including a well-balanced Magnus effect, especially a soccer ball. The fundamental objective of this invention is to provide such a ball for more precise play. This makes possible, and thereby, the disadvantages outlined above in the prior art are at least partially resolved. It will 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. Exemplary embodiments of the present invention The state is defined in the dependent claim.

[0013] In one embodiment, the present invention provides an inflatable ball having an outer shell including a panel, particularly a sa Provides a kerball. The panel includes at least one surface texture, and the panel has a small At the very least, the subset includes depressions in addition to the surface texture. Depressions are surface textures It also has a shape that differs from the shape of the tea.

[0014] Generally, moving objects such as balls flying through the air have a higher front side compared to their rear side. It has a pressure zone. Air flows smoothly over the front contour and finally away from the ball towards the rear. It separates. The flying ball also enters a turbulent wake region where the airflow fluctuates or oscillates. It leaves behind, creating lower pressure behind it. The size of the wake is the drag force on the object. It affects the quantity. One or more surface textures on the outer shell of the ball affect the ball This creates a thin turbulent boundary layer of air that clings to the surface. This allows you to trace the surface of the ball a little further around the back of the ball, This reduces the size of the wake. Therefore, at least one surface texture is smooth. Compared to balls with a surface, this reduces the ball's drag, resulting in longer shots. It can be made to happen.

[0015] Despite the possibility of longer shots based on the surface texture of the panel, the inventors This involves incorporating additional indentations on at least a subset of the panels, which improves the ball's flight. We found that the accuracy of this can be greatly improved. For example, including goalkeepers. The prediction of the ball's trajectory has been greatly improved, which is extremely important for all players on the field. However, live and television viewers can also more easily follow the match with their eyes. This makes for a more captivating and exciting experience. Even the shooter themselves can feel the ball's flight. This allows for more reliable behavior and enables more accurate shots. In addition, Unintended fluttering of the wheel can be reduced by the indentation. Therefore, for example, This facilitates the difficult decision-making process for players attempting long-range shots, and expands upon the present invention. The use of a formal ball makes the game more exciting to watch.

[0016] Furthermore, not only is the flight behavior improved, but at least one surface texture of the panel is It also brings an inflatable ball with an improved level of control in the shoes, It enables improved dribbling using the ball.

[0017] In some embodiments of the present invention, only a subset of the panels, in addition to the surface texture, It may include indentations. In this way, by carefully selecting the number of panels in the subset, This allows for precise optimization of the flight behavior of the inflatable ball. Furthermore, a subset of panels Carefully positioning the ball on the outer shell of the inflatable ball will affect the flight behavior of the inflatable ball. In particular, it enables further adjustment of the predictability of flight behavior.

[0018] Alternatively, all panels may include recesses in addition to the surface texture. As the number of panels increases, the Magnus effect of the ball in the air can be increased. This increases the swerve of the tensioned ball.

[0019] Surface textures and recesses can be arranged independently of each other on the panel. Therefore, The surface texture pattern is not interrupted or significantly altered in depressions. This is also good. In this way, it is possible for the surface texture to be located inside the depression, and vice versa. be.

[0020] The depression can be polygonal, in particular essentially kite-shaped, rhombic, or even square-shaped. In addition, or alternatively, elliptical, and especially essentially circular, depressions are also applicable. The inventors found that the shape of the indentation affects the flight behavior of the inflatable ball. The shape of either type of indentation, whether polygonal or elliptical, is the trajectory of the ball according to the present invention. To improve predictability. The inventors found that polygonal depressions have a slightly higher level of predictability. They further discovered that the oval-shaped indentation allows the ball to travel at a slightly higher speed. The term "essentially" is used in this invention in 5-10 It should be understood that this includes small deviations within the % range. Deviations can be, for example, material properties, etc. This may be based on manufacturing uncertainties that are well known to those skilled in the art.

[0021] The recess does not have to be in contact with the panel edge and / or is essentially in the center of the panel. It may be placed within the area. For example, the recess is preferably at least 10 mm from the edge of the panel. The indentation may have a minimum distance of 15 mm. Thus, the indentation is the seam between the two panels. It does not interfere with or adversely affect the outer shell of the inflatable ball. The seams are generally located within a slight recess compared to the central area of ​​the panel. The indentation located within the central region of the panel is greatly influenced by the ball's flight behavior. It is possible.

[0022] The depressions may be distributed non-uniformly on each panel having depressions. "(in-homogeneously distributed)" means that when used in this invention, each panel is... Regions having a large number of depressions, as well as regions having fewer depressions, or further, This can be understood as potentially including regions without depressions. The non-uniform distribution of depressions is also, It can be defined based on the average distance between adjacent depressions. Therefore, adjacent The average interval between buds may differ within the first subset compared to the second subset. As shown, the density of the depressions can be varied across the panel. The term density is defined in this application. When used in this context, it refers to the number of depressions per unit surface area. The non-uniform distribution of depressions indicates expansion. This allows for optimized flight behavior in the ball. The distribution of the indentations further... It can be individually adapted to desirable flight behaviors.

[0023] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the indentations are uniformly distributed on each panel having indentations. It is possible. In a uniform distribution, the average distance between adjacent depressions can be essentially constant. The deviation in the mean distance of the order of 5% between depressions on the panel is still uniformly distributed. It should be noted that it may be called as such. Preferably, though not limited to, an elliptical shape The depressions may be uniformly distributed across each panel of the subset. However, polygonal depressions may be... A uniform distribution can also be applied.

[0024] Depending on the embodiment, each panel may include only one surface texture. The surface texture can be distributed essentially uniformly on each panel. It may vary across the panel, and in particular, each panel may have a different surface texture. This allows for a precise selection of various surface textures, and / or various panels. The arrangement of different surface textures across the surface individually influences the altitude of the inflatable ball towards its preferred flight behavior. It can bring about adjustments.

[0025] A surface texture can have multiple different shapes. These different shapes can be grouped together. And, formations may be constructed. Multiple formations may be at least part The distribution may be segmented across the panel, which allows for multiple distributions of different shapes. It is acceptable for the same elements to be repeated within a formation.

[0026] The shape of the surface texture can be the same on each panel. Therefore, the shape of the surface texture on the shoe The control level of the bell becomes almost identical 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 panels may contain more than one surface texture. At least two surface textures on the flannel overlap each other at least partially, or each other They can be placed next to each other. Different surface textures on the same panel affect flight behavior, shoes. More specific adaptations of the surface of inflatable balls regarding control and other properties. This could lead to...

[0028] The maximum extent of at least one surface texture perpendicular to the surface of the inflatable ball is the maximum extent of the depression. It can be smaller than the great depth. As mentioned above, at least one surface texture In particular, if the particles are distributed essentially uniformly on each of the panels, then on the surface of the ball This can create a thin turbulent boundary layer of air that clings to the surface. Large depths can intentionally disrupt the thin boundary layer of air in panels with depressions. This creates the ability to influence the flight behavior of the ball according to the present invention. Therefore, the depression Depending on the depth, it is possible to create greater stability for the ball in the air.

[0029] Each panel having a recess has at least two, preferably at least three, and Preferably, at least four separate recess depths, recess lengths, recess widths, or similar. These combinations may be present. In a preferred embodiment, on each panel having a recess, The recess depth, recess length, recess width, or any combination thereof, are measured from the internal area of ​​the panel. It can decrease on average in the direction toward the outer / edge region. Term "from the inner region to the outer / edge region" "Decreases on average in the direction" generally means that in the defined direction, the value remains the same but does not increase. Note that it may be possible to have adjacent recesses with a size. Each recess on the panel Carefully changing the parameters of the group of depressions will affect the flight behavior of the inflatable ball. It can be used to have a positive effect on. Optimized parameters are, for example, ( It can be discovered through standard experiments (in a laboratory, wind tunnel, etc.) or calculated using a theoretical model. It is possible.

[0030] The recess length is 1.0 to 30.0 mm, preferably 1.5 to 20.0 mm, and Preferably, it can vary between 2.0 and 10.0 mm. Terms and lengths are used in this invention. When used, the range of the indentation between the two points is related to the two dimensions parallel to the surface of the inflatable ball. The larger of the two dimensions corresponds to the length. For example, for a (convex) kite-shaped indentation. For a circular depression, the length corresponds to the range along the line of symmetry. Accordingly, for the elliptical shape, the length corresponds to twice the semi-major axis. The depth of the depression is 0 to 10 It can vary in mm, preferably 0 to 8 mm, and more preferably 0 to 6 mm. The recess width is 0.1 to 15.0 mm, preferably 0.2 to 7.5 mm, and more preferably The width can vary between 0.4 and 2.5 mm. Similar to the definition of length, the width is defined on the surface. It corresponds to the smaller of the two dimensions along which it is measured. For example, for a kite-shaped indentation: The width corresponds to the maximum extension between the two corners perpendicular to the main extension direction. Regarding the elliptical shape: The width corresponds to twice the half-minor axis. The inventors believe that the listed ranges have an impact on flight behavior. It was found that this produced a depression that was not too small to produce any resonance. However, contact The shoe produces different responses depending on whether the area is on a subgroup panel or not. It's neither too big nor too deep.

[0031] The flight behavior of the inflatable ball, particularly its predictability, depends on the position of the indentations on the panel. The shape of the indentation, the depth of the indentation, the distance between the indentations, or any combination thereof. It may depend on one of the following: Preferably, the shortest distance between two adjacent indentations on the same panel. The thickness is 0.5 to 45.0 mm, preferably 1.0 to 30.0 mm, and most preferably 0.5 to 45.0 mm. It can be 1.5 to 15.0 mm. Thus, the depression affects the flight behavior, in particular the flight behavior. They coordinate optimally to favorably influence the predictability.

[0032] Each panel may include an outer layer containing polyurethane (PU). Each panel may also contain foam material, The material may contain an inner layer containing ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the recesses on each panel having a recess is partial It may extend into the upper surface of the inner layer. At least one surface texture may extend only into the outer layer.

[0033] The inflatable ball may further have a carcass. The carcass covers the surface of the internal bladder. The bladder provides the required airtightness of the ball, and the carcass stabilizes the bladder, which is then exposed to the outside. It protects from impact. The carcass provides further contraction force towards the internal bladder.

[0034] Depending on the embodiment, the panels and carcass may be bonded together with an adhesive, preferably containing latex. It can be spray-coated at least partially. The panel edges of adjacent panels are heat They can be connected to each other via activating junctions.

[0035] The recesses may be applied after the panel formation process. The panel formation process is for each panel This corresponds to the process by which the inner and outer layers are bonded together. To manufacture, no changes to the representative machinery for panel production are required, and this allows for the production process to be completed. The cost-effectiveness of the process is improved. Furthermore, by reusing existing machinery, the manufacturing process is improved. The total carbon footprint of the product is reduced. Preferably, the recess has a protrusion. It can be produced by pressing the material onto at least one panel.

[0036] The subset consists of fewer than 32 panels, preferably fewer than 24 panels, and most preferably It may include 12 panels. Preferably, the number of panels not in the subset is Fewer than 24 panels, preferably fewer than 16 panels, and most preferably 8 panels It is possible. As mentioned above, fewer larger panels are needed during manufacturing. This reduces the amount of sutures required, making the inflatable ball of the present invention more cost-effective.

[0037] The maximum range of at least one surface texture perpendicular to the surface of the inflatable ball is 1.5m. It may be less than 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 the sides of the polygonal surface texture is less than 20 mm, preferably less than 15 mm. Preferably, it may be less than 10 mm.

[0038] The total surface roughness volume of an inflatable ball is 7,000 to 30,000 mm². 3 Preferably, 14 000~25000mm 3 , and more preferably 18000~22000mm 3 range It can extend to the range. The total roughness volume according to the present invention is best described by starting from the base sphere. The base sphere has smooth panels, i.e., in particular, surface texture The smallest possible surrounding (ideal) inflatable ball, without any bulges or indentations. It corresponds to a sphere. In this case, the total roughness volume is determined by the base sphere and the surface of the ball. This corresponds to the absolute value of the volume difference with the volume of the inflatable ball. The total roughness volume is inside the base sphere. A first volume, for example, a seam, a depression, and / or the indented surface of an inflatable ball Note that this may include volume differences based on surface texture. Total roughness volume is based A second volume located outside the base sphere, for example, with one or more protruding surface textures It may further include a volume difference based on the first This corresponds to the sum of the absolute values ​​of the second volume. Alternatively, the entire surface texture, in particular, the recessed The surface texture may consist only of the first volume. Therefore, the total roughness volume is , at least, depends on indentations, surface texture, and / or seams. The inventors For balls having a total roughness volume within a specified range, when flying through the air... The critical Reynolds number of a ball is such that the ball's flight behavior does not essentially depend on its drag. We found that it can be moved towards a lower speed. As a result, the drag force affects the flight behavior of the ball. For this reason, at higher speeds, the drag is essentially constant across various speeds. This can be achieved. In this way, the prediction of the ball's trajectory can be greatly improved. In addition This can reduce unintended fluttering of the ball.

[0039] For example, when developing a new inflatable ball according to the present invention, the coarseness volume of the seams is initially It can be determined to produce a total roughness volume within the advantageously defined range described above. Multiple indentations and / or at least one surface texture to match the required roughness volume A texture can be added. A recess and / or at least one surface texture. Preferably, the recesses and surface textures as described herein I will comply.

[0040] Aspects of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These drawings The following are shown. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0041] [Figure 1a] This is a diagram of one embodiment including a kite-shaped recess from three different viewpoints. [Figure 1b] This is a diagram of one embodiment including a kite-shaped recess from three different viewpoints. [Figure 1c] This is a diagram of one embodiment including a kite-shaped recess from three different viewpoints. [Figure 2a] This is a diagram of one embodiment including an elliptical recess from three different viewpoints. [Figure 2b] This is a diagram of one embodiment including an elliptical recess from three different viewpoints. [Figure 2c] This is a diagram of one embodiment including an elliptical recess from three different viewpoints. [Figure 3] This is a diagram of an unfolded view of one embodiment showing the distribution of kite-shaped indentations. [Figure 4a] This is a scale-accurate diagram of the collision zone in one embodiment compared to a ball using current technology. [Figure 4b] This diagram shows the collision zone of one embodiment compared to the current technology ball. [Figure 5a] This is a diagram of one embodiment of a press plate having a kite-shaped projection. [Figure 5b] This is a diagram of one embodiment of a press plate having a kite-shaped projection. [Figure 6] This is a diagram of one embodiment of a panel having a kite-shaped recess. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0042] Illustrative embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to an inflatable ball. A specific combination of features is described below with reference to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. However, please understand that this disclosure is not limited to such embodiments. Specifically, Not all features are necessary to realize the present invention, and embodiments may be limited to the features of one embodiment. The specified features may be modified by combining them with one or more features of other embodiments. ru.

[0043] Figures 1a to 1c show one embodiment of the inflatable ball 100 according to the present invention from three different viewpoints. The form is shown. Ball 100 may be a soccer ball. The features of the present invention are mainly soccer —The description is given regarding the ball, but anyone skilled in the art can see these characteristics in a volleyball. Easily applicable to balls of various other sports, such as handballs or other sports. It is possible. The ball 100 has an outer shell that includes various panels 140, 150. Panels 140 and 150 include a surface texture 120 on the outer layer. This represents a regular pattern uniformly distributed on each panel. The panel edge 130 is regular It can be understood that this represents a break in the pattern. Pre-fabricated panels 140, 150 During assembly, adhesive is used, heat-activated bonding is used, and stitching or sewing is used. The panel edges 130 can be joined together. The shape of the surface texture 120 is It is essentially a quadrilateral with a longest side length of approximately 5 mm. Surface texture, height 120 mm. The range of surface texture 120, which represents the maximum distance in the file, is less than 1 mm. (Figure) Figures 1a to 1c show one embodiment having a single uniformly distributed surface texture 120. However, according to the present invention, different surfaces on the same panel or on adjacent panels Please note that textures can also be applied.

[0044] A subset of panel 150 includes surface textures 120 and recesses 110. Panel 140, which is not in the subset of panel 150, does not contain such a recess 110. As shown in Figures 1a to 1c, the recess 110 has a shape very similar to that of a kite. Generally speaking, The shape belongs to the group of polygons (mathematically). The recess 110 is mainly panel 15 While distributed within the central region of the subset of 0, the seams or edges of panel 150 1 The edge region 170 near 30 does not have a depression 110. Therefore, the regular surface texture Compared to the 120, the depressions 110 are distributed non-uniformly on each panel 150. Non-uniform distributions can also be understood based on the average interval between adjacent depressions. (Figure) In 1a-c, and similarly in Figure 3, adjacent depressions within the central region of the panel The average spacing between the dents is smaller than the spacing within the edges or areas near the edges. The density is varied across the panel. In another embodiment of the present invention (not shown) A uniform distribution of depressions can also be assumed. This is due to depressions having an elliptical shape (Figures 2a to 2c). This can be particularly beneficial for the indentation (see 211).

[0045] The inflatable ball 100 may be covered by a carcass (not shown) and further comprises a bladder. For example, to inflate ball 100 using an air pump or compressor. A sealable opening 160 connected to the internal bladder penetrates the carcass and outer shell. It is directed to the following. During the manufacture of ball 100, panels 140, 150 and carcass Preferably, the adhesive is spray-coated and then, in a subsequent step, bonded together. They are joined together. The adhesive may contain latex.

[0046] The various features of the inflatable ball 100 described above, in particular the recess 110 and the surface texture All combinations of the YA120 offer improved control and more reliable flight behavior. In this way, the surface texture 120 is involved in the contribution to the ball 100 having the shoe. In addition to increasing the controllability of the ball in the game, it also increases the possible range of the shot. It also actively increases the small vertical range of surface texture 120 and is essentially regular Based on the pattern, the ball has a smooth outer surface compared to balls known in the art. A thin turbulent boundary layer of air clinging to the surface of the ball reduces the drag force of the 100. They are released. In addition, these known balls are especially numerous, but in larger panels. When made, they are prone to fluttering during long-distance shots, but these The effect is very well suppressed by the inflatable ball 100 according to the present invention. Panel 15 The depression 110 at 0 creates a more balanced Magnus effect in the air, It is controlled and provides a stable swerve. This is the flat of the inflatable ball 100. This can be understood as the main reason for reducing tarring. In this regard, see, for example, Figures 1a to 10. As can be depicted from 1c, the arrangement of the recess 110 on panel 150, recess 110 The polygonal shape, the depth of the recess 110, the distance between the recesses relative to each other, or combinations thereof Wase provides Ball 100 with a more stable, more reliable, and predictable trajectory.

[0047] The inventors measured 7,000 to 30,000 mm. 3 Regarding balls having a total roughness volume within the range Therefore, the critical Reynolds number of a ball flying through the air is the ratio of the ball's flight behavior to its drag. It is qualitatively independent, or the degree to which the ball's flight behavior depends on its drag is quite small. We found that it can be moved to a lower speed. This is due to the relationship between aerodynamic forces and atmospheric velocity. It can be based on an exponential relationship. As a result, the drag force is related to the ball's flight behavior, and is higher. In terms of speed, an essentially constant drag force can be achieved across various speeds. Thus, This significantly improves the prediction of the ball's trajectory. In addition, it can prevent unintended ball flutter. The ring can be reduced. For example, when developing a new inflatable ball according to the present invention First, the coarseness volume of the seam can be determined. Next, within the advantageously defined range described above Multiple indentations and / Alternatively, at least one surface texture can be added. (e.g., indentations and / or small) At least one surface texture is preferably as described herein. Supports dents and surface textures.

[0048] Figures 2a to 2c show panels 240 and 250 connected at the edge 230 of the panel. An embodiment of the present invention of a ball 200 having an outer shell is shown. Panel 240 is It includes surface texture 220 and provides the same advantages as described for panel 140. Panel 250 includes a recess 211 and has very similar advantages to those described with respect to panel 150. This results in the panel being more elliptical than the panel 150, depending on manufacturing uncertainties. It includes a recess 211 that can take shape, which is essentially circular. The recess 211 is primarily a panel It is distributed within the central area of ​​250, while the seams or edges 23 of panel 250 The edge region 270, which is close to 0, does not have a depression 211. Therefore, the depression 1 of the ball 100 Similarly to 10, the indentations 211 of the ball 200 are also distributed non-uniformly on each panel 250. This is due to a decrease in the density of depressions progressing from the central region of panel 250 to the edge region 270. It can be considered as such. For example, as shown in Figure 2a, the surface texture 220 and The recesses 211 can be arranged independently of each other on the panel 250. Therefore, the surface The pattern of texture 220 is not interrupted or significantly altered in the recess 211. It does not happen. Thus, the surface texture 220 is located within the recess 220, and The reverse is also possible, as described in other embodiments herein, for example, a cubic This also applies to the inflatable ball 100 having a surface texture 110 and a surface texture 120. The inflatable ball 200 may be covered by a carcass (not shown) and further comprises a bladder. For example, to inflate Ball 200 using an air pump or compressor. A sealable opening 260 connected to the internal bladder penetrates the carcass and outer shell. It is explained there. Similar to Ball 100, the flight behavior of Ball 200 is as described above. It depends on the various parameters of the depression 211 listed with respect to depression 110.

[0049] Figure 3 schematically shows one embodiment of the panel configuration 300 according to the present invention. Panel configuration 30 0 shows a two-dimensional configuration of various panels 340, 350, similar to the net of a polyhedron. Geometry In mathematics, the net of a polyhedron is folded (along its edges) to form the faces of the polyhedron. This is a configuration of non-overlapping edge-jointed polygons in a plane. In this way, adjacent pairs Align the flannel edge 330 on the bladder or carcass like a polygonal folded step, By attaching panels 340 and 350 onto the bladder or carcass, the expansion according to the present invention is achieved. A ball can be made. The panel configuration 300 consists of 12 panels 350 having indentations 310. Including the recess 310, which is essentially located within the central region of panel 350. The edge region 370 does not contain any depressions 310. In other words, the density of depressions 310 is The temperature is highest in the central region of the panel 350 and decreases towards the panel edge 330. Panel configuration 300 further includes eight panels 340 that do not contain any recesses 310. Panel 340 In addition to the recess 310 on the subset, all panels 340, 35 of the panel configuration 300 0 includes surface texture (not shown in Figure 3). Recess 310 and surface texture The advantageous synergistic effects resulting from the combination of elements are explained above with respect to Figure 1. This is true, and it applies here as well.

[0050] Figure 4a shows the goal 40, with a scale-accurate collision zone of 490-495 for various balls. A partial diagram of experimental apparatus 0 is shown. Goal 400 is 90° at their connection point. It includes bars 480 and posts 482 that create the corners. The height of the goal 400 is 281. It is 2.44m, in accordance with standard FIFA (trademark) regulations. The inventors believe that in the art Various experiments under laboratory conditions to compare known balls with the inflatable ball according to the present invention The experiment was conducted. In the first experiment, the experimental apparatus was designed to mimic the movement of a player's legs while kicking a ball. Using typical soccer shoes fitted to the shoe, a swerve kick was performed. The speed of the train was set to 20 m / s, which is approximately 90 km / h (i.e., 25 m / s). This resulted in a ball velocity of approximately 6 / s. Each kick using the ball resulted in a ball velocity on each ball. The test was repeated 18 times using six different contact points on the shoe. The contact points were, for example, panels. Changes between the center, the edge / seam of a panel, the edge / seam point of two or more panels, etc. The trajectory of each ball was determined by video analysis. The air pressure of each ball was set to 0.8 bar. I set it up.

[0051] Figure 4a shows the connection between post 482 and bar 480, which was obtained from the video analysis described above. The various elliptical collision zones 490-495 are shown. Collision Zones 490-495 This corresponds to the collision zones of various tested balls, faithful to scale. To improve awareness, each collision zone 490-495 is located on the left side of Figure 4a, and other collision zones It was shown in a way that avoided overlap, but still faithfully to scale. Collision zone 490 and 491 means that all panels include a surface texture, and a subset of them adds indentations. This corresponds to one embodiment of the inflatable ball according to the present invention, which is included in the collision zone 490. The indentations of the inflatable ball are kite-shaped, while each corresponds to a collision zone 491. The indentation is circular. The collision zones 492-495 are known balls in the art. This corresponds to... Polygonal depressions may be shown to provide a higher level of predictability. Other Meanwhile, in a second experiment (not shown), the inventors found that the elliptical indentation was a straight key We found that this method allows for a slightly higher ball speed than the one described above.

[0052] Figure 4b shows the size of each collision zone 490-495. In addition, for each ball, The size in square meters is indicated above each bar in the diagram. The embodiments of the present invention exhibit the smallest size collision zones 490, 491. The collision zone, in particular, means equally reliable flight behavior in terms of the predictability of flight behavior. Please note that the small collision zone is known from many balls of conventional technology. This further suggests a strong reduction in the rattle effect.

[0053] Figures 5a and 5b show one embodiment of the press plate 500 according to the present invention from two perspectives. As shown below, the manufacturing / fabrication process for the recess according to the present invention can be as follows: : A pre-fabricated panel is placed on the platen. Next, the platen has a projection 510. Move the plate, for example, press plate 500, toward the panel, and the panel is plated It is placed between the n and the press plate 500. This causes the protrusion 51 of the press plate 500 The 0 will be pressed inward on the outer surface of the panel, resulting in a depression. Plate 500 exhibits a kite-shaped projection 510 that results in an essentially kite-shaped recess on the panel. The projections 510 are arranged non-uniformly on the press plate 500. Based on the press plate edge 570 which does not exhibit the rise 510, the corresponding panel is also made accordingly. This will prevent the panel from exhibiting a recess in the edge region. The height 511 of the projection 510 is approximately It is 5mm and creates a recess of 5mm or less. Other shapes, especially elliptical shapes, and other shapes. Other distributions, in particular, uniform distributions, or combinations thereof, also according to the present invention. Please note that this is applicable to plates.

[0054] Figure 6 shows one embodiment of the panel 600 according to the present invention. For example, the panel 600 is pre It can be manufactured using plate 500. Panel 600 is preferably made of polyurethane. It may include an outer layer and an inner layer containing foamed material. The inner layer is preferably made of ethyl acetate. The panel 600 contains a benzene-propylene-diene monomer (not shown). It includes a kite-shaped indentation 610, and the shortest distance 615 of the indentation 610 is 1.5 mm to 15.0 m. It extends over a range of m. The depression 610 may extend at least into the internal foam layer. Conversely, the surface The extent of the custure (not shown) may be limited to the outer layer only. Thus, the surface of the inflatable ball The maximum extent of a surface texture perpendicular to a face may be less than the maximum depth of a depression. As shown in Figure 6, the size of the recess 610 is such that it extends outward from the interior or central region in direction 675. It decreases towards the part or edge region. Generally, the depression depth, depression length 612, 613, depression The width can vary by 611, 614, or a combination thereof, on a single panel. In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the internal, or largest, recess is 9.2 mm in length. It has widths of 613 and 2.2 mm. The external, or smallest, recess is 2. It has a length of 3 mm (612 mm) and a width of 0.5 mm (611 mm).

[0055] The embodiments and figures described above primarily show a single surface texture, but adjacent On the panel, or even more than one surface texture on the same panel, it is possible to apply a texture. Please note that it is possible. Furthermore, different panels of the inflatable ball according to the present invention, Furthermore, embodiments are also possible that include various combinations of recess shapes on the same panel. For example, different shapes can be grouped together to form a formation. It is also acceptable if multiple formations are distributed at least partially across the panel. It is fine if they remain the same, and this allows the distribution of different shapes to be repeated in multiple formations. It's fine if it's like that.

[0056] Further embodiments are described below to facilitate understanding of the present invention: 1. An inflatable ball (100, 200) having an outer shell including panels (140, 150, 240, 250, 340, 350, 600), in particular a soccer ball, a. Panels (140, 150, 240, 250, 340, 350, 600) include at least one surface texture (120, 220), b. At least a subset of the panels (150, 250, 350, 600) includes recesses (110, 211, 310, 610) in addition to surface textures (120, 220), c. An inflatable ball in which the indentations (110, 211, 310, 610) have a shape different from the shape of the surface texture (120, 220). 2. An inflatable ball according to Embodiment 1, wherein only a subset of the panels includes depressions in addition to the surface texture. 3. An inflatable ball according to Embodiment 1, wherein all panels include indentations in addition to a surface texture. 4. An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the depression is polygonal, in particular essentially kite-shaped, and / or elliptical, in particular essentially circular. 5. An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the recess is not in contact with the panel edges (130, 230, 330) and / or is essentially located within the central region of the panel. 6. An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the depressions are non-uniformly distributed on each panel having a depression. 7. An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the depressions are uniformly distributed on each panel having a depression. 8. An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein each panel includes only one surface texture. 9. An inflatable ball according to Embodiment 8, wherein the surface texture is distributed essentially uniformly over each of the panels. 10. An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 9, wherein the shape of the surface texture is the same on each panel. 11. An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein at least some of the panels include one or more surface textures. 12. An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the maximum extent of at least one surface texture perpendicular to the surface of the inflatable ball is less than the maximum depth of the depression. 13. An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 12, wherein each panel having a recess has at least two, preferably at least three, and more preferably at least four distinct recess depths, recess lengths (612, 613), recess widths (611, 614), or a combination thereof. 14. An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein on each panel having a recess, the recess depth, recess length, recess width, or a combination thereof decreases on average in the direction (675) from the interior region of the panel to the exterior / edge region (170, 370, 570). 15. An inflatable ball according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 14, wherein the recess length (612, 613) varies in the range of 1.0 to 30.0 mm, preferably 1.5 to 20.0 mm, and more preferably 2.0 to 10.0 mm. 16. An inflatable ball according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 15, wherein the depression depth varies in the range of 0 to 10 mm, preferably 0 to 8 mm, and more preferably 0 to 6 mm. 17. An inflatable ball according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 16, wherein the recess width (611, 614) varies in the range of 0.1 to 15.0 mm, preferably 0.2 to 7.5 mm, and more preferably 0.4 to 2.5 mm. 18. An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 17, wherein the flight behavior of the inflatable ball, in particular the predictability of the flight behavior, depends on one of the positions of the indentations on the panel, the shapes of the indentations, the depths of the indentations, the distance between the indentations, or a combination thereof. 19. An inflatable ball according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 18, wherein the shortest distance (615) between two adjacent indentations on the same panel is 0.5 to 45.0 mm, preferably 1.0 to 30.0 mm, and most preferably 1.5 to 15.0 mm. 20. An inflatable ball according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 19, wherein each panel comprises an outer layer containing polyurethane PU. 21. An inflatable ball according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 20, wherein each panel comprises an inner layer containing a foaming material, preferably ethylene propylene diene monomer EPDM. 22. An inflatable ball according to embodiment 20 or 21, wherein at least some of the depressions extend partially into the upper surface of the inner layer. 23. An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 20 to 22, wherein at least one surface texture extends only within the outer layer. 24. An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 23, further comprising a carcass. 25. An inflatable ball according to Embodiment 24, wherein the panels and carcass are at least partially spray-coated with an adhesive, preferably containing latex. 26. An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 25, wherein the panel edges of adjacent panels are connected to each other via a thermally activated bond. 27. An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 26, wherein the depression is applied after the panel forming process. 28. An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 27, wherein the recess is created by pressing a plate (500) having a projection (510) onto at least one panel. 29. An inflatable ball according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 28, wherein the subset comprises fewer than 32 panels, preferably fewer than 24 panels, and most preferably 12 panels. 30. An inflatable ball according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 29, wherein the number of panels not in the subset is less than 24 panels, preferably less than 16 panels, and most preferably 8 panels. 31. An inflatable ball according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 30, wherein the maximum extent of at least one surface texture perpendicular to the surface of the inflatable ball is less than 1.5 mm, preferably less than 1.0 mm, and more preferably less than 0.5 mm. 32. An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 31, wherein the shape of at least one surface texture is polygonal, preferably quadrilateral. 33. The inflatable ball according to Embodiment 32, wherein the maximum length of the sides of the polygonal surface texture is less than 20 mm, preferably less than 15 mm, and more preferably less than 10 mm. It should be noted that the present invention may include the following embodiments. [Aspect 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 the panels includes recesses in addition to the surface texture, c. An inflatable ball in which the recess has a shape different from the shape of the surface texture. [Aspect 2] Only a subset of the aforementioned panels includes recesses in addition to the surface texture, or An inflatable ball according to embodiment 1, wherein all panels include depressions in addition to the surface texture. [Aspect 3] The inflatable ball according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the depression is polygonal and / or elliptical. [Aspect 4] The inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the recess is not in contact with the edge of the panel and / or is essentially located within the central region of the panel. [Aspect 5] The depressions are distributed non-uniformly on each panel having a depression, or The inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the depressions are uniformly distributed on each panel having a depression. [Aspect 6] Each panel contains only one surface texture. and / or the shape of the surface texture is the same on each panel, according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5. [Aspect 7] An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein at least some of the panels include one or more surface textures. [Aspect 8] The inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the surface texture includes a plurality of different shapes that are grouped together with respect to one another to form a formation, and the plurality of formations are distributed at least partially across one or more panels, so that the distribution of the different shapes is repeatedly the same within the plurality of formations. [Aspect 9] The inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the maximum extent of the at least one surface texture perpendicular to the surface of the inflatable ball is less than the maximum depth of the depression. [Embodiment 10] Each panel having a recess has at least two distinct recess depths, recess lengths, recess widths, or combinations thereof, and / or An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 9, wherein on each panel having a recess, the recess depth, recess length, recess width, or a combination thereof decreases on average from the internal region to the external / edge region of the panel. [Aspect 11] The recess length varies between 1.0 and 30.0 mm, and / or The indentation depth varies between 0 and 10 mm, and / or An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the indentation width varies in the range of 0.1 to 15.0 mm. [Aspect 12] Each panel includes an outer layer containing polyurethane PU, and / or An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein each panel includes an inner layer containing a foaming material. [Aspect 13] The subset includes fewer than 32 panels, and / or An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the number of panels not included in the subset is less than 24. [Aspect 14] The maximum extent of the at least one surface texture perpendicular to the surface of the inflatable ball is less than 1.5 mm, and / or An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein the shape of at least one surface texture is polygonal. [Aspect 15] The total roughness volume of the surface of the aforementioned inflatable ball is 7000 to 30000 mm². 3 An inflatable ball according to any one of embodiments 1 to 14, which may extend to the range of [the specified range]. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0057] 100, 200 inflatable balls 110, 211, 310, 610 indentations 120, 220 surface textures 130, 230, 330 Panel edge 140, 150, 240, 250, 340, 350, 600 panels 160, 260 Sealable opening 170, 270, 370 edge area 300-panel configuration 400 goals 480 bars 481, 511 Height 482 posts Collision zones 490, 491, 492, 493, 494, 495 500 Press Plate 510 Protrusion 570 Press plate edge 612, 613 indentation length 611, 614 indentation width 615 Shortest distance 675 directions

Claims

1. An inflatable ball having an outer shell comprising a plurality of panels, a. The plurality of panels include at least one surface texture, b. At least a portion of the plurality of panels includes recesses in addition to the surface texture, c. The recess has a shape different from the shape of the surface texture, d. The recess is kite-shaped, rhomboid-shaped, square-shaped, or elliptical when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the surface of the inflatable ball. Inflatable ball.

2. The recess is not in contact with the edge of the panel and / or is located within the central region of the panel. The inflatable ball according to claim 1.

3. The indentations are non-uniformly distributed on each panel having an indentation, or The recesses are uniformly distributed on each panel having a recess, according to claims 1 to 2. An inflatable ball as described in item one.

4. Each panel includes only one surface texture, and / or the shape of the surface texture is the same on each panel, claims 1 to 3 An inflatable ball as described in any one of the items.

5. Any of Claims 1 to 3, wherein at least some of the panels include one or more surface textures An inflatable ball as described in item one.

6. The maximum extent of the at least one surface texture perpendicular to the surface of the inflatable ball is An inflatable ball according to any one of claims 1 to 5, which is smaller than the maximum depth of the recess. 。

7. Each panel having a recess has at least two distinct recess depths, recess lengths, and recesses Having width, or a combination thereof, and / or On each panel having a recess, the recess depth, recess length, recess width, or The combination of these decreases on average from the internal region to the external / edge region of the panel. an inflatable ball according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The recess length varies in the range of 1.0 to 30.0 mm, and / or The depression depth varies between 0 and 10 mm, and / or The recess width varies in the range of 0.1 to 15.0 mm, according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The inflatable ball described.

9. Each panel comprises an outer layer containing polyurethane, and / or Each panel comprises an inner layer containing a foaming material, as described in any one of claims 1 to 8. A formal ball.

10. The portion of the plurality of panels includes fewer than 32 panels, and / or Claim 1, wherein the number of panels that are not part of the plurality of panels is less than 24. An inflatable ball as described in any one of items from to 9.

11. The maximum extent of the at least one surface texture perpendicular to the surface of the inflatable ball is 1 . Less than 5 mm, and / or Any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the shape of at least one surface texture is polygonal. An inflatable ball as described in item 1.

12. The total roughness volume of the surface of the inflatable ball is in the range of 7,000 to 30,000 mm³. The total roughness volume is defined by the base sphere and the inflatable ball defined by the surface of the ball. It is the absolute value of the volume difference with respect to the volume. The base sphere has no surface texture and depressions on its surface, and the inflatable bo The smallest possible sphere surrounding the circle, An inflatable ball according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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