Golf Ball Compression Tester Using Dynamic Force Curves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Golf-ball compression values change over time due to exposure to air, water, and temperature variations, affecting their performance and a golfer's game, as existing methods fail to accurately measure these changes.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic measurement apparatus that uses a strain gauge to measure the force exerted on a golf-ball over time, fitting curves to estimate compression values without requiring significant deflection, allowing for lower force measurements and one-handed operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a fixed deflection measurement method is used, then the compression value can be obtained, but the force required is high and the measurement is static
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a static fixed-deflection measurement to a dynamic measurement that tracks force evolution over time during compression. By measuring the time-series force data and using curve fitting to extract compression values, the system achieves accurate measurements with lower peak forces since the ball is not held at maximum deflection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical fixed-deflection method with a dynamic force measurement system using strain gauges and computational analysis. Instead of mechanically maintaining a fixed deflection, the system uses sensors to capture force evolution and algorithms to derive compression values, reducing the required measurement force.
2Measurement precision
If traditional compression measurement methods are used, then compression values can be obtained, but the values change over time due to environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism by continuously monitoring force over time during compression and using curve fitting to extract stable compression values. The dynamic measurement approach captures the force evolution and uses mathematical modeling to identify the characteristic compression point, providing more stable and reproducible measurements that account for the ball's viscoelastic behavior.
3Measurement precision
If significant deflection is used for measurement, then compression can be measured, but the device requires two hands to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by using modest deflection rather than full compression for measurement. The dynamic force measurement and curve fitting approach allows accurate compression value extraction with smaller, more manageable deflections, enabling one-handed operation while maintaining measurement precision.
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
Provides accurate and reliable compression value measurements without measuring displacement, accounting for variations in golf-ball hardness and environmental factors, ensuring improved golfing performance.
Implementation Method 1
The force of the compressed golf-ball, which is different for different hardness of golf-balls, is measured by a strain gauge attached to the beam
Data Source
AI summary
A hand-held compression-tester for golf balls applies a biasing force to the golf-ball, loads it, and then releases the load so that only the biasing force remains. Based on the evolution of a loading curve during these intervals, the compression-tester estimates a compression value.