Directional Dimple Texturing for Golf Ball Aerodynamic Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current golf ball dimple patterns struggle to optimize aerodynamic efficiency and symmetry, particularly at low Reynolds Numbers and spin ratios, while maintaining smooth rolling and consistent flight performance.
Innovation Solution
The golf ball features a surface with over 70% dimples, where at least 20% incorporate directional surface texturing in the form of linear channels or protrusions, arranged at specific angles and dimensions to enhance aerodynamic properties, including parallel channels with U-shaped cross-sections and varying depths and lengths within each dimple.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional dimple patterns are used, then aerodynamic symmetry is maintained, but aerodynamic efficiency at low Reynolds Numbers and spin ratios is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different surface characteristics to different regions of the dimple pattern. Specifically, it incorporates regions with varying dimple densities, depths, and geometries across the ball surface. This local differentiation allows optimization for specific flight conditions (low Reynolds Numbers and spin ratios) while maintaining overall aerodynamic symmetry, resolving the contradiction between reliability and adaptability.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If dimple coverage is increased to improve aerodynamic properties, then drag reduction is enhanced, but symmetry and smooth rolling may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent strategically introduces asymmetric dimple configurations in specific regions while maintaining overall symmetric distribution. By carefully placing dimples with varying depths, sizes, and orientations in controlled asymmetric patterns, the design achieves superior drag reduction through enhanced boundary layer control, while the global symmetric arrangement preserves aerodynamic stability and smooth rolling characteristics.
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
This design improves aerodynamic characteristics by reducing drag and lift forces, achieving a coefficient of lift greater than 0.24 and a coefficient of drag less than 0.27 at specific Reynolds Numbers and spin ratios, while maintaining symmetry and smooth rolling.
Implementation Method 1
dimples provide a means to energize the flow field and delay the separation of flow, or reduce the wake region behind the ball
Implementation Method 2
Lift force is perpendicular to the direction of flight and is a result of air velocity differences above and below the rotating ball. This phenomenon is attributed to Magnus, who described it in 1853 after studying the aerodynamic forces on spinning spheres and cylinders
Implementation Method 3
Bernoulli's equation relates pressure and velocity where pressure is inversely proportional to the square of velocity. The velocity differential, due to faster moving air on top and slower moving air on the bottom created by the ball's spin, results in lower air pressure on top and an upward directed force on the ball
Implementation Method 4
Skin friction is a viscous effect residing close to the surface of the ball within the boundary layer
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a golf ball having an outer surface comprising a plurality of dimples covering greater than 70 percent of the outer surface, wherein a plurality of the dimples incorporate directional surface texturing therein. The directional surface texturing preferably comprises substantially parallel channels or protrusions formed within the dimples. The directional surface texturing can comprise of parallel linear channels or protrusions or parallel non-linear linear channels or protrusions.