Curvilinear Golf Ball Dimples for Aerodynamic Packing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing golf ball dimple patterns, while providing unique visual appearances, are less aerodynamically efficient and suffer from limited surface coverage uniformity and packing efficiency compared to conventional designs.
Innovation Solution
The use of golf ball dimples with curvilinear plan shapes defined by circular arcs derived from regular n-sided polygons, including convex and concave arcs, to create unique surface textures and improve aerodynamic performance while maximizing packing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If visually distinct dimple patterns are used, then unique visual appearance is improved, but aerodynamic efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the dimples by using curvilinear plan shapes defined by circular arcs instead of conventional shapes. This parameter change allows the dimples to maintain visual distinctiveness while improving aerodynamic efficiency through optimized curvature and packing characteristics.
2Shape
If isodiametrical dimple shapes are used, then visual distinctiveness is improved, but surface coverage uniformity and packing efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs curvilinear plan shapes defined by circular arcs to create dimples with optimized curvature. This curvature approach improves packing efficiency by allowing tighter arrangement of dimples on the spherical surface while maintaining visual distinctiveness through the arc-based geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the dimensional parameters of the dimples by using curvilinear shapes with specific circular arc radii and configurations. This parameter optimization enables improved packing efficiency while preserving the visual appeal of the dimple patterns.
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.