Cross-linked Thermoplastic Polyurethane Golf Ball Covers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermoplastic polyurethane materials used for golf ball covers lack durability and mechanical strength, particularly in terms of impact resistance and scuff resistance.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the treatment of thermoplastic polyurethane golf ball covers with a composition comprising multi-functional hydroxyl compounds, multi-functional amines or imines, and multi-functional isocyanates, followed by partial cross-linking to enhance mechanical properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If thermoplastic polyurethane materials are used for golf ball covers, then the covers provide good elasticity and comfort, but they lack durability and mechanical strength
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies chemical cross-linking to transform the thermoplastic polyurethane material structure, changing its physical and chemical parameters. The cross-linking process creates a three-dimensional network structure that significantly enhances mechanical strength, impact durability, and scuff resistance while preserving the elastic properties of the original material
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite material system by combining thermoplastic polyurethane with cross-linking agents (multi-functional hydroxyl compounds, multi-functional amines or imines, and multi-functional isocyanates). This composite approach integrates the elastic properties of TPU with the strength and durability provided by the cross-linked network structure
2Strength
If thermoplastic polyurethane covers are used, then the covers provide good elasticity, but they lack impact resistance and scuff resistance
Solution Approach 1:
The cross-linking process fundamentally changes the material parameters of thermoplastic polyurethane by creating covalent bonds between polymer chains. This transformation increases hardness, impact resistance, and scuff resistance while maintaining the elastic recovery properties essential for golf ball performance
3Reliability
If cross-linking treatment is applied to enhance mechanical properties, then durability and strength improve, but process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates cross-linking agents (multi-functional hydroxyl compounds, multi-functional amines or imines, and multi-functional isocyanates) into the TPU material during the manufacturing process. This preliminary action ensures that cross-linking capability is built into the material structure, allowing for simplified post-processing while achieving the desired durability and strength enhancements
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The treatment significantly improves the mechanical strength, impact durability, and scuff resistance of the thermoplastic polyurethane covers, resulting in golf balls with enhanced physical and playing performance properties.
Implementation Method 1
The treated TPU cover layers are then cross-linked by any suitable method known to those skilled in the art. In one embodiment, the cross-linking is accomplished by any suitable method including, but not limited to, the use of multi-functional hydroxyl compounds, multi-functional amines or imines, and multi-functional isocyanates
Implementation Method 2
The composition is applied to the TPU cover layers in any suitable manner known to those skilled in the art. In one embodiment, the composition is applied by dipping the ball into a bath containing the composition
Data Source
AI summary
Golf balls having covers made of thermoplastic polyurethane compositions are provided. Multi-piece golf balls can be made. The outer cover layer is formed from a composition comprising a thermoplastic polyurethane, a multi-functional hydroxyl compound, and a multi-functional compound selected from multi-functional amines and imines, and multi-functional isocyanates, and mixtures of two or more thereof. The cover composition can further include catalysts, ultraviolet (UV)-light stabilizers, and other additives.