System and method for manufacturing a cricket ball with a monolithic non-leather cover and stitched seam

Abstract

The various embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for manufacturing a cricket ball with a monolithic non-leather cover and stitched seam in a specially designed machine with a plurality of core configurations, including rice bran, solid rubber and hollow cores. The design improves durability, performance, and cost-efficiency while maintaining the look, feel, and sound of traditional leather cricket balls. The seamless rubber cover enhances durability and water resistance, ensuring consistent performance. The various core options provide superior tear resistance, elasticity, and customization to meet different playing conditions. The stitched seams replicate traditional seam benefits for optimal grip and aerodynamics. The cricket ball also addresses ethical concerns by eliminating animal-derived materials and promotes environmental sustainability through the use of agricultural byproducts. Customizable for different formats, it offers a superior alternative to traditional cricket balls with enhanced safety and consistent performance.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A CRICKET BALL WITH A MONOLITHIC NON-LEATHER COVER AND STITCHED SEAMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims the priority of the Indian Provisional Patent Application filed on06 / 02 / 2025, with the number202441059329and titled, “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A CRICKET BALL WITH A MONOLITHIC NON-LEATHER COVER AND STITCHED SEAM”, the contents of which are incorporated herein by the way of reference.

[0002] The present invention is generally related to sports equipment. The present invention is particularly related to the design and manufacturing of cricket balls. The present invention is more particularly related to a System and Method for Manufacturing a Cricket Ball with a Monolithic Non-Leather Cover and stitched seam. The present invention is also related to the system of cricket balls with a non-leather cover and stitched seam.

[0003] Traditional cricket balls are typically constructed using a core made of cork mixed with rubber latex, a leather cover, and multiple stitching processes. These balls, while widely used, suffer from several significant drawbacks. The leather cover, sourced from animal hides, varies in quality and consistency based on the animal's age, health, and processing methods. This variability can lead to performance issues such as shape loss and surface degradation. Moreover, leather is susceptible to water absorption, impacting the ball's weight and behavior, especially in damp conditions.

[0004] Additionally, the cork core, while offering desirable hardness and elasticity, lacks tear resistance and durability. Over time, the cork can break down, necessitating frequent replacements during matches. The intricate stitching process, required to secure the leather cover and create the prominent seam, is labor-intensive and costly. These factors contribute to the high cost of manufacturing traditional cricket balls.

[0005] Furthermore, the use of animal-derived leather raises ethical concerns regarding animal cruelty and environmental impact. The leather industry is associated with significant animal welfare issues and environmental degradation due to the chemicals used in tanning processes.

[0006] Hence, there exists a need for a cricket ball with a monolithic non-leather cover and stitched seam integrated with a plurality of cores for providing improved durability, consistent performance, cost efficiency, and ethical considerations.

[0007] The abovementioned shortcomings, disadvantages and problems are addressed herein, which will be understood by reading and studying the following specification.OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The primary object of the present invention is to provide a cricket ball with a monolithic non-leather and stitched seam to incorporate a plurality of cores.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to incorporate a composite core made from rice bran and rubber to enhance performance.

[0010] Yet another object of the present invention is to utilize stitched seams for better grip and aerodynamic properties.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to reduce manufacturing costs by using cost-effective materials.

[0012] Yet another object of the present invention is to eliminate the use of animal-derived leather, addressing ethical concerns.

[0013] Yet another object of the present invention is to prevent water absorption, ensuring consistent weight and performance.

[0014] Yet another object of the present invention is to maintain the appearance, feel, and impact sound of traditional leather cricket balls.

[0015] Yet another object of the present invention is to enhance the tear resistance and longevity of the cricket ball.

[0016] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a stable performance across varying temperature conditions.

[0017] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a cricket ball that can be easily customized for different formats of the game

[0018] These and other objects and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0019] The various embodiments of the present invention provide a System and Method for manufacturing a cricket ball with a monolithic non-leather cover and stitched seam.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a system is provided for manufacturing cricket balls with monolithic non-leather cover and stitched seam. The system comprises a core production module that creates a durable and resilient core, to provide the ball with optimal hardness and elasticity; a monolithic cover production module that uses molding process to produce a monolithic cover of the cricket ball using non-leather materials including non-vulcanized rubber; a seam stitching module that stitches functional seams on the cricket ball independently on both half-cups using a plurality of materials including waxed nylon or linen threads, replicating the traditional seam stitching, and providing the required grip and aerodynamic properties; ball assembly module that assembles the half cups into the shape of the ball, accommodating a plurality of core configurations including composite core, solid rubber core, and hollow core; polishing and finishing module where the stitched and cured ball undergoes polishing to smoothen the surface, and is finished with a protective coating to improve the durability, and maintain the performance characteristics and aesthetic qualities of the cricket ball over extended use; and a quality control module that oversees the entire production process, ensuring quality at each stage of production and that each cricket ball produced meets the desired standards of performance and durability.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method is provided for manufacturing cricket balls with monolithic non-leather cover and stitched seam. The method comprises core preparation wherein the core of the cricket ball is prepared as per the core configuration; half-cup formation wherein non-leather materials including non-vulcanized rubber slugs are shaped to form a half-cup with uniform wall thickness using a molding process; ball assembly process wherein the half cups are assembled into the shape of the ball, accommodating a plurality of core configurations, bonded and cured to form a seamless monolithic structure also realizing the texture and feel of traditional leather; seam stitching wherein directly on the cured ball stitched using a plurality of threads including high-strength waxed nylon and linen threads, replicating the traditional seam stitching, to provide required grip and aerodynamics; polishing and finishing process wherein the ball undergoes polishing to smoothen the surface and finished with a protective coating to improve the durability and shine, and maintaining the performance characteristics; and quality control process wherein the entire production process is overseen, ensuring quality at each stage of production ensuring that each cricket ball produced meets the desired standards of performance and durability.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a cricket ball is provided with monolithic non-leather cover and stitched seam. The cricket ball comprises monolithic non-leather cover, treated to achieve the texture and grip of the traditional leather that it replaces, with water absorption resistance to enabling the maintenance of consistent weight and performance in damp conditions; a functional stitched seam created by stitching on the molded ball of the non-leather cover with a plurality of materials including high-strength waxed nylon and linen threads, replicating the traditional seam stitching and providing the necessary grip and aerodynamic properties to enable swing and spin; core module that adds elasticity and resilience to maintain the shape and performance of the cricket ball. The core module is configured with a plurality of configurations including composite core, solid core and hollow core, wherein the composite core comprises a blend of rice bran and rubber that are environment friendly; the solid core rubber core is made solid rubber molded into dense spherical shape of precise dimensions; and hollow core is prepared using blowing agents including DNPT (Dinitroso pentamethylene tetramine) that releases nitrogen gas to fill the core of the cricket ball.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a cricket ball is provided having a monolithic non leather outer cover and a functional stitched seam, configured to replicate the performance characteristics of a traditional leather cricket ball while eliminating the drawbacks associated with animal derived materials. The monolithic outer cover is formed as a seamless structure by molding non leather material into half cups and bonding the half cups under controlled heat and pressure, thereby providing enhanced tear resistance, water resistance, and dimensional stability. The outer cover is treated to achieve surface texture, grip, appearance, and impact sound comparable to leather. A functional stitched seam is formed directly on the molded and cured outer cover using high strength threads, thereby providing the grip and aerodynamic properties required for swing and spin during play. The cricket ball further comprises a core positioned within the monolithic outer cover, wherein the core is configured in multiple forms including a composite core formed from rice bran and rubber, a solid rubber core, or a hollow core formed using a blowing agent, enabling customization of hardness, elasticity, rebound, and suitability for different formats of the game.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a system is provided for manufacturing a cricket ball having a monolithic non leather outer cover and stitched seam through a modular and controlled production process. The system includes a core production arrangement configured to produce multiple core configurations including composite, solid, and hollow cores. A ball assembly arrangement is configured to position the prepared core within molded non leather half cups, align the half cups accurately, bond the half cups using heat and pressure, and cure the bonded structure to form a seamless monolithic outer cover with the core firmly integrated therein. A seam stitching arrangement is configured to stitch a functional seam directly on the cured outer cover using a plurality of threads and a specially designed needle to ensure consistent stitch depth without damaging the outer cover. The system further includes polishing and finishing arrangements to improve surface smoothness, durability, and aesthetic quality of the cricket ball, along with quality control arrangements configured to monitor dimensional accuracy, weight consistency, and performance characteristics at each stage of manufacture.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method is provided for manufacturing a cricket ball with a monolithic non leather outer cover and stitched seam in a controlled and repeatable manner. The method includes preparing a core according to a selected configuration, forming non leather half cups by molding non vulcanized rubber material with uniform wall thickness, assembling the half cups around the prepared core by aligning, bonding, and curing the half cups to form a seamless monolithic outer cover, and stitching a functional seam directly onto the cured outer cover using high strength threads to impart grip and aerodynamic properties. The method further includes polishing and finishing the stitched cricket ball to improve surface smoothness, durability, and visual appeal, followed by performing quality control checks to ensure that the manufactured cricket ball meets predefined dimensional, weight, and performance standards. The method enables consistent production of cricket balls that retain traditional playing characteristics while offering improved durability, water resistance, ethical sustainability, and adaptability to different playing conditions.

[0026] These and other aspects of the embodiments herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating the preferred embodiments and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the embodiments herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments herein include all such modifications.

[0027] The other objects, features and advantages will occur to those skilled in the art from the following description of the preferred embodiment and the accompanying drawings in which:

[0028] illustrates a System for manufacturing cricket balls with a monolithic non-leather cover and stitched seam, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] illustrates a Method for manufacturing cricket balls with a monolithic non-leather cover and stitched seam, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] illustrates a 3D model of a non-leather half cup, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] illustrates a 3D model of cricket ball without stitched seam and monolithic cover, according to the embodiment of the present invention

[0032] illustrates a 3D model of cricket ball with stitched seam and monolithic cover, according to one embodiment of the present invention

[0033] andillustrates a 3D model of needle for cricket ball seam stitching process and monolithic cover, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] illustrates the side views of the specially designed needle for cricket ball seam stitching process and monolithic cover, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Although the specific features of the present invention are shown in some drawings and not in others. This is done for convenience only as each feature may be combined with any or all of the other features in accordance with the present invention.

[0036] In the following detailed description, a reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which the specific embodiments that may be practiced is shown by way of illustration. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments and it is to be understood that other changes may be made without departing from the scope of the embodiments. The following detailed description is therefore not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0037] The various embodiments of the present invention provide a System and Method for manufacturing cricket balls with a monolithic non-leather cover and stitched seam.

[0038] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a system is provided for manufacturing cricket balls with monolithic non-leather cover and stitched seam. The system comprises a core production module that creates a durable and resilient core, to provide the ball with optimal hardness and elasticity; a monolithic cover production module that uses molding process to produce a monolithic half cup cover of the cricket ball using non-leather materials including non-vulcanized rubber; ball assembly module that assembles the half cups into the shape of the ball, accommodating a plurality of core configurations including composite core, solid rubber core, and hollow core; a seam stitching module that stitches functional seams on the cricket ball directly by using specially designed needle and plurality of materials including waxed nylon or linen threads, replicating the traditional seam stitching, and providing the required grip and aerodynamic properties; polishing and finishing module where the stitched and cured ball undergoes polishing to smoothen the surface, and is finished with a protective coating to improve the durability, and maintain the performance characteristics and aesthetic qualities of the cricket ball over extended use; and a quality control module that oversees the entire production process, ensuring quality at each stage of production and that each cricket ball produced meets the desired standards of performance and durability.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the present invention the monolithic cover production module produces monolithic cover for the cricket ball with non-leather materials including non-vulcanized rubber using a molding system. The module shape a single piece of non-leather material into a seamless cover eliminating the need for multiple segments and stitches within a half cup. The module treats the non-leather material to achieve the required texture, grip and aerodynamics mimicking the characteristics of traditional leather.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the present invention the core production module creates a durable and resilient core, to provide the ball with optimal hardness and elasticity for a plurality of core configurations including composite cores, and solid rubber cores. The module blends the required materials including rice bran and rubber in specific proportions to achieve uniform consistency, molded into a spherical shape that fits tightly within the monolithic cover and cured to create a composite core. The module uses the non-leather material used for the monolithic cover and shapes into small solid ball with diameter that fits tightly within the inner diameter of the cover to create a solid core.

[0041] According to one embodiment of the present invention the ball assembly module is designed to assemble the half cups into the shape of the ball, accommodating a plurality of core configurations including composite core, solid rubber core, and hollow core. The module comprises a core positioning unit that precisely places the core within one half-cup; a half-cup alignment mechanism that aligns the two half-cups using a plurality of sensors and alignment guides, ensuring precise matching of edges; a closing and sealing unit that applies heat and pressure to bond the edges of the half cups, forming a seamless join; a curing chamber that cures the assembled ball under controlled heat and pressure to ensure proper setting of the cover along with firm integration of the core within the monolithic cover a seam stitching module that stitches functional seams on the cricket ball directly by using specially designed needle and plurality of materials including waxed nylon or linen threads, replicating the traditional seam stitching, and providing the required grip and aerodynamic properties. The core positioning unit is designed to be configured for assembling a plurality of core configurations including rubber core for solid core configuration, composite core for composite core configuration and blowing agents for hollow core configuration.

[0042] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method is provided for manufacturing cricket balls with monolithic non-leather cover and stitched seam. The method comprises core preparation wherein the core of the cricket ball is prepared as per the core configuration; half-cup formation wherein non-leather materials including non-vulcanized half cup rubber slugs are shaped with uniform wall thickness using a molding process; ball assembly process wherein the half cups are assembled into the shape of the ball, accommodating a plurality of core configurations, bonded and cured to form a seamless monolithic structure also realizing the texture and feel of traditional leather; a seam stitching module that stitches functional seams on the cricket ball directly by using specially designed needle and plurality of materials including waxed nylon or linen threads, replicating the traditional seam stitching, and providing the required grip and aerodynamic properties; polishing and finishing process wherein the ball undergoes polishing to smoothen the surface and finished with a protective coating to improve the durability and shine, and maintaining the performance characteristics; and quality control process wherein the entire production process is overseen, ensuring quality at each stage of production ensuring that each cricket ball produced meets the desired standards of performance and durability.

[0043] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a cricket ball is provided with monolithic non-leather cover and stitched seam. The cricket ball comprises monolithic non-leather cover, treated to achieve the texture and grip of the traditional leather that it replaces, with water absorption resistance to enabling the maintenance of consistent weight and performance in damp conditions; a functional stitched seam created by stitching on the molded ball of the non-leather cover with a plurality of materials including high-strength waxed nylon and linen threads, replicating the traditional seam stitching and providing the necessary grip and aerodynamic properties to enable swing and spin ; core module that adds elasticity and resilience to maintain the shape and performance of the cricket ball. The core module is configured with a plurality of configurations including composite core, solid core and hollow core, wherein the composite core comprises a blend of rice bran and rubber that are environment friendly; the solid core rubber core is made solid rubber molded into dense spherical shape of precise dimensions; and hollow core is prepared using blowing agents including DNPT (Dinitroso pentamethylene tetramine)that releases nitrogen gas to fill the core of the cricket ball.

[0044] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the cricket ball comprises a monolithic non leather outer cover formed as a seamless structure by molding non leather material into half cups and bonding the half cups under heat and pressure to form a spherical outer shell. The monolithic outer cover is treated to replicate the texture, grip, appearance, and impact sound of a traditional leather cricket ball while providing water resistance to maintain consistent weight and performance in damp conditions. A functional stitched seam is created directly on the molded and cured outer cover using a plurality of threads to provide grip and aerodynamic properties required for swing and spin. A core module is positioned within the monolithic outer cover to provide elasticity and resilience for maintaining shape and performance of the cricket ball, wherein the core module is configured as at least one of a composite core formed from rice bran and rubber, a solid rubber core, or a hollow core formed using a blowing agent.

[0045] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the monolithic non leather outer cover is formed from non vulcanized rubber material molded into half cups and subsequently bonded under controlled heat and pressure conditions to form a seamless spherical structure. The use of non vulcanized rubber enables uniform wall thickness, enhanced tear resistance, and consistent surface properties across the outer cover.

[0046] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the functional stitched seam is formed after curing of the monolithic non leather outer cover by stitching directly onto the outer surface using waxed nylon thread or linen thread. The stitching process replicates the structure and prominence of a traditional cricket ball seam and provides the required grip and aerodynamic influence during play.

[0047] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the composite core comprises rice bran blended with rubber in predetermined proportions to achieve uniform hardness, elasticity, and resilience. The blended material is molded into a spherical shape and cured to form a durable core that fits tightly within the monolithic non leather outer cover.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the hollow core is formed using a blowing agent including DNPT (Dinitroso pentamethylene tetramine), which releases nitrogen gas during processing to create an internal hollow structure. The hollow core configuration reduces material usage while maintaining elasticity and rebound characteristics suitable for cricket play.

[0049] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the system for manufacturing the cricket ball comprises a core production module configured to produce a plurality of core configurations including composite, solid rubber, and hollow cores. A ball assembly module is configured to position the core within molded non leather half cups, align the half cups, bond the half cups under heat and pressure, and cure the bonded structure to form a monolithic outer cover. A seam stitching module is configured to stitch a functional seam directly on the cured outer cover using a plurality of threads. A polishing and finishing module smoothens the surface and applies a protective finish, while a quality control module monitors dimensional, weight, and performance parameters at each stage of manufacture.

[0050] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the seam stitching module comprises a specially designed needle configured to penetrate the monolithic non leather outer cover without causing tearing or structural damage. The needle geometry enables consistent stitch depth and seam formation across the curved surface of the cricket ball. The seam stitching module is configured to perform functional seam stitching by means of the specially designed needle. The stitching operation is carried out after the ball has been fully formed and the monolithic outer cover has undergone curing. The stitching is executed using waxed nylon thread or linen thread.

[0051] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the specially designed needle comprises an elongated hollow tubular body extending longitudinally between a proximal end and a distal end. The tubular body defines an internal lumen adapted to receive a stitching thread. The proximal end is configured to facilitate manual handling or engagement with a stitching apparatus. The tubular body further comprises a reduced-diameter shaft portion extending from the proximal end toward the distal end. The distal end terminates in a tapered pointed tip configured to penetrate molded non-leather material of the cricket ball outer cover. In one embodiment, the distal end further includes an internal cut-out region forming an opening in fluid communication with the internal lumen. The opening is bounded by opposed leg portions, thereby defining a generally U-shaped terminal configuration. The cut-out region is adapted to receive and guide the stitching thread during penetration and withdrawal of the needle, enabling formation of raised seam stitches on the molded non-leather outer cover while minimizing tearing, deformation, or surface damage. The hollow tubular configuration allows the thread to pass through the internal lumen, thereby improving stitch consistency and reducing manual effort during seam formation. In use, the needle is repeatedly inserted through aligned apertures formed in molded non-leather half cups of the cricket ball, drawing the stitching thread through successive holes to produce a continuous external seam. The needle may be manufactured from hardened steel, stainless steel, or other suitable materials providing strength and wear resistance.

[0052] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the specially designed needle further includes a distal forked tip configured to penetrate the molded outer cover. An inner slot width of approximately 1.15 mm is defined between opposed leg portions and functions to guide and retain a stitching thread, while an outer fork width of approximately 1.25 mm defines a penetration profile of the distal tip. The dimensional relationship between the inner slot width and the outer fork width facilitates controlled thread positioning and secure seam formation within the molded outer cover. Dimensions, shapes, and proportions illustrated are exemplary and may be varied without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0053] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the ball assembly module comprises a core positioning unit configured to accurately place the core within a half cup, a half cup alignment mechanism configured to ensure precise edge matching, a closing and sealing unit configured to bond the half cups using heat and pressure, and a curing chamber configured to set the bonded structure and integrate the core firmly within the monolithic outer cover.

[0054] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the method for manufacturing the cricket ball comprises preparing a core according to a selected core configuration, forming non leather half cups by molding non vulcanized rubber slugs with uniform wall thickness, assembling the half cups around the prepared core by aligning, bonding, and curing the half cups to form a seamless monolithic outer cover, stitching a functional seam directly on the cured outer cover using a plurality of threads, polishing and finishing the stitched cricket ball to improve surface smoothness and durability, and performing quality control checks to ensure compliance with predefined performance and dimensional standards.

[0055] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the stitching step is performed using waxed nylon thread or linen thread to replicate traditional cricket ball seam characteristics including seam height, grip, and durability during repeated play.

[0056] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the core preparation step comprises forming a composite core from rice bran and rubber blended in predetermined proportions, molded into a spherical shape, and cured prior to assembly within the monolithic non leather outer cover.

[0057] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the hollow core configuration is formed by incorporating a blowing agent including DNPT (Dinitroso pentamethylene tetramine)during core preparation, wherein the blowing agent releases gas to create an internal hollow structure within the core.

[0058] illustrates a system for manufacturing cricket balls with a monolithic non-leather cover and stitched seam, according to one embodiment of the present invention. The system comprises core production module 101, ball assembly module 102, seam stitching module 103, polishing and finishing module 104, and quality control module 105.

[0059] illustrates a method for manufacturing cricket balls with a monolithic non-leather cover and stitched seam, according to one embodiment of the present invention. The method comprises: Core preparation (201); Half cup formation (202), Ball assembly (203), Seam stitching (204), Polishing and finishing (205), and Quality control (206).

[0060] illustrates a 3D model of a non-leather half cup (301) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] illustrates a 3D model of cricket ball without stitched seam (401) and monolithic cover, according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] illustrates a 3D model of cricket ball with stitched seam (501) and monolithic cover, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] andillustrate a 3D model of Specially Designed needle (601) for cricket ball seam stitching process and monolithic cover, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] illustrates the side views of the specially designed needle (601) for cricket ball seam stitching process and monolithic cover. The needle comprises elongated hollow tubular body (702), proximal end (704), distal end (706), internal lumen (708), reduced-diameter shaft portion (712), an opening (718) and opposed leg portions (720a, 720b).

[0065] Although the embodiments herein are described with various specific embodiments, it will be obvious for a person skilled in the art to practice the embodiments herein with modifications.ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

[0066] The various embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for manufacturing a cricket ball with a monolithic non-leather cover and stitched seam. The monolithic non-leather cover various core configurations provide superior tear resistance and longevity, reducing the need for frequent ball replacements. The design of the ball ensures that the ball maintains its shape, bounce, and aerodynamic properties over time, providing consistent performance throughout matches and practice sessions. By utilizing cost-effective materials such as rice bran, a byproduct of rice milling, and synthetic rubber, the manufacturing costs are reduced without compromising the ball's quality making it more affordable for manufacturers and consumers alike.

[0067] Unlike traditional leather balls, which absorb water and become heavier in damp conditions, the monolithic cover is water-resistant, ensuring that the ball retains its weight and performance characteristics regardless of weather conditions. The use of synthetic materials and various composite cores eliminates the need for animal-derived leather, addressing ethical concerns related to animal cruelty. Additionally, using agricultural byproducts like rice bran promotes sustainability and reduces environmental impact. The ball is designed to mimic the appearance, feel, and impact sound of traditional leather cricket balls, ensuring a familiar playing experience for players enabling the sensory feedback that players rely on during gameplay.

[0068] The manufacturing process allows for easier customization of ball properties such as hardness, elasticity, and weight by choosing different core materials. This adaptability ensures the ball can be tailored for optimal performance in various playing conditions and formats, including Test, ODI, and T20.

[0069] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and / or adapt for various applications such as specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modifications. However, all such modifications are deemed to be within the scope of the claims.

Claims

A cricket ball, comprising:a monolithic non leather outer cover formed as a seamless structure from molded half cups, the outer cover being water resistant and treated to replicate the texture, grip, appearance, and impact sound of a traditional leather cricket ball;a functional stitched seam formed directly on the molded outer cover using a plurality of threads, the stitched seam being configured to provide grip and aerodynamic properties required for swing and spin; and,a core module positioned within the monolithic outer cover, the core module being configured to provide elasticity and resilience to maintain shape and performance of the cricket ball;wherein the core module comprises at least one of a composite core formed from rice bran and rubber, a solid rubber core, and a hollow core formed using a blowing agent.The cricket ball as claimed in claim 1, wherein the monolithic non leather outer cover is formed from non-vulcanized rubber and bonded under heat and pressure to create a seamless spherical structure, and wherein, the functional stitched seam is formed using waxed nylon thread or linen thread and stitched after curing of the monolithic outer cover.The cricket ball as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composite core comprises rice bran blended with rubber in predetermined proportions to achieve uniform hardness and elasticity, and wherein, the hollow core is formed using a blowing agent including DNPT (Dinitroso pentamethylene tetramine)configured to release nitrogen gas within the core.A system for manufacturing a cricket ball with a monolithic non leather cover and stitched seam, the system comprising:a core production module (101) configured to produce a plurality of core configurations including a composite core, a solid rubber core, and a hollow core;a ball assembly module (102) configured to position the core within molded non leather half cups, align the half cups, bond the half cups using heat and pressure, and cure the bonded structure to form a monolithic outer cover;a seam stitching module (103) configured to stitch a functional seam directly on the cured monolithic outer cover using a plurality of threads;a polishing and finishing module (104) configured to smoothen the surface of the cricket ball and apply a protective finish; and,a quality control module (105) configured to monitor dimensional, weight, and performance parameters of the cricket ball at each stage of manufacture.The system as claimed in claim 4, wherein the seam stitching module (103) comprises a specially designed needle configured to penetrate the monolithic non leather outer cover without damaging structural integrity, and wherein, the seam stitching module is configured to perform a functional seam stitching by means of the specially designed needle, wherein the stitching operation is carried out after the ball has been fully formed and the monolithic outer cover has undergone curing, and wherein the stitching is executed using waxed nylon thread or linen thread.The system as claimed in claim 4, wherein the specially designed needle comprises an elongated hollow tubular body (702) extending between a proximal end (704) and a distal end (706), the tubular body defining an internal lumen (708) configured to receive a stitching thread, the tubular body further including a reduced-diameter shaft portion (712) extending toward the distal end (706), wherein the distal end (706) terminates in a tapered pointed tip and includes an internal cut-out region forming an opening (718) in fluid communication with the internal lumen (708), the opening (718) being bounded by opposed leg portions (720a, 720b) to define a generally U-shaped, forked terminal configuration, the cut-out region being adapted to guide the stitching thread during penetration and withdrawal of the needle to form raised seam stitches on a molded non-leather outer cover of a cricket ball, and wherein an inner slot width between the opposed leg portions is approximately 1.15 mm and an outer fork width is approximately 1.25 mm, the dimensional relationship between the inner slot width and the outer fork width facilitating controlled thread positioning and secure seam formation.The system as claimed in claim 4, wherein the ball assembly module (102) comprises a core positioning unit, a half cup alignment mechanism, a closing and sealing unit, and a curing chamber.A method for manufacturing a cricket ball with a monolithic non leather cover and stitched seam, the method comprising:preparing a core according to a selected core configuration (201);forming non leather half cups by molding non vulcanized rubber slugs with uniform wall thickness (202);assembling the half cups around the prepared core by aligning, bonding, and curing the half cups to form a seamless monolithic outer cover (203);stitching a functional seam directly on the cured monolithic outer cover using a plurality of threads (204);polishing and finishing the stitched cricket ball to improve surface smoothness and durability (205); and,performing quality control checks to ensure compliance with predefined performance and dimensional standards (206).The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein the stitching step is performed using waxed nylon thread or linen thread to replicate traditional cricket ball seam characteristics, and wherein, the stitching operation is carried out after the ball has been fully formed and the monolithic outer cover has undergone curing.The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein the core prepared in the core preparation step comprises a composite core formed from rice bran and rubber.The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein the hollow core configuration is formed using a blowing agent including DNPT (Dinitroso pentamethylene tetramine)to generate an internal gas filled structure.

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