Curvilinear Golf Ball Dimples for Aerodynamic Packing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing golf ball dimple designs, particularly those with unique visual patterns, often compromise on aerodynamic efficiency and packing uniformity, limiting their performance and appearance.
Innovation Solution
The use of non-isodiametrical, curvilinear dimple shapes defined by circular arcs derived from regular n-sided polygons, such as equilateral triangles or squares, which provide a unique visual appearance while enhancing aerodynamic characteristics and maximizing packing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If conventional dimple patterns are used to achieve unique visual appearance, then visual distinctiveness is improved, but aerodynamic efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by using non-isodiametrical dimple shapes with curvilinear perimeters defined by circular arcs. The dimples feature varying curvature radii and asymmetric distributions of convex and concave arcs, creating visually distinctive patterns while maintaining aerodynamic performance through optimized asymmetric geometries that control airflow effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by systematically varying the curvature radii of circular arcs, the number of convex and concave arcs per dimple, and the angular positions of these arcs. These parameter variations enable the creation of unique visual patterns while optimizing aerodynamic characteristics through precise control of airflow separation and reattachment.
2Shape
If isodiametrical dimple shapes are used to achieve visual distinctiveness, then visual appearance is improved, but packing efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses asymmetric curvilinear shapes with non-uniform curvature distributions along the dimple perimeter. By strategically placing convex and concave arcs at different angular positions, the design achieves visual distinctiveness while creating compact geometries that pack more efficiently on the golf ball surface, maximizing surface coverage uniformity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies curvature principles by defining dimple perimeters using circular arcs with carefully selected radius ratios. The use of curved rather than straight lines creates smoother transitions and more compact shapes that fit together better on the spherical surface, improving packing efficiency while maintaining visual appeal.
3Shape
If dimples with complex curvatures are used to achieve unique patterns, then visual appearance is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the dimple perimeter into discrete circular arc segments, each with defined curvature radii and angular positions. This segmentation approach allows complex curvilinear shapes to be constructed from simpler arc elements, facilitating easier manufacturing through mold design while maintaining pattern uniqueness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses circular arcs as the fundamental geometric building blocks for dimple perimeters. By relying on mathematically simple circular curves rather than complex free-form surfaces, the design achieves unique patterns through combinatorial arrangements of arcs while keeping manufacturing complexity manageable through standardized arc definitions.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to golf balls having surface textures with unique appearances and improved aerodynamic characteristics due, at least in part, to the use of curvilinear dimple plan shapes. In particular, the present invention is directed to a golf ball that includes at least a portion of its dimples having a plan shape defined by a number of convex or concave arcs that are derived from the vertices of a regular n-sided polygon, for example, an equilateral triangle or square.