Method of providing indicia on golf balls

Laser etching or engraving on golf balls exposes underlying layers to create precise and durable markings, addressing the inefficiencies of traditional printing methods by allowing continuous and intricate designs without stitching.

US20250256162A1Pending Publication Date: 2025-08-14ACUSHNET CO
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Patent Information

Application Number
US18/440498
Authority / Receiving Office
US · United States
Patent Type
Applications(United States)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-02-13
Publication Date
2025-08-14

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Traditional printing techniques for adding markings or design elements to golf balls introduce variability and complications, particularly in creating elongated markings that require stitching or alignment, leading to manufacturing inefficiencies.

Method used

A method involving material removal processes like laser etching or engraving is used to expose underlying layers of different colors on a golf ball, allowing for precise and intricate markings without the need for stitching, by removing portions of the outer coating layers to create visual effects that can extend circumferentially around the ball.

Benefits of technology

This approach provides improved durability and manufacturing efficiency by eliminating issues associated with traditional printing, such as coating disruption and ink durability, while enabling highly precise and continuous markings.

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Abstract

A method and configuration of forming markings, indicia, or other design features on golf balls is disclosed herein. The present disclosure uses any one or more of various material removal processes or techniques, such as laser engraving, or similar processes, to remove portions of layers or components of a golf ball, such as a paint layer, coating layer, cover, casing, or any other intermediate layers. Removal of material can either: (i) expose an underlying differently colored portion, layer, or component of the golf ball, or (ii) create for a void or pocket that is configured to subsequently receive ink. Based on this arrangement, markings, indicia, or other design features can be provided on golf balls without using traditional printing techniques.
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Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Laser marking of golf balls

    US20010047986A1

  • Method and apparatus for laser treatment of a golf ball

    US6248974B1

  • Laser light marking of a container portion

    US6706995B2

  • Golf ball having three colored parallel circles

    USD655358S