Multi-layer Golf Ball Core Hardness Gradient

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a continuing need in the golf ball industry for improved core and cover constructions that enhance performance and durability.

Innovation Solution

The development of multi-piece golf balls with a multi-layered solid core and cover, featuring specific hardness ranges and materials for the inner and outer core layers, and thermoplastic compositions for the cover layers, including ionomers, polyurethanes, and copolymers, to achieve optimal hardness gradients and material properties.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a multi-layered core construction is used, then the hardness gradient and performance are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveperformanceVSAvoidcore construction

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The core is divided into multiple layers (inner core, intermediate core layer, outer core layer) with different material compositions and hardness values. This segmentation allows each layer to contribute differently to the overall performance, creating an optimized hardness gradient that improves reliability while managing complexity through functional differentiation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the core are assigned different material properties - the inner core has specific hardness characteristics, the intermediate layer has different composition (e.g., ionomer with specific neutralization levels), and the outer core layer has yet another set of properties. This local quality variation optimizes performance by tailoring each region's characteristics to its specific functional requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If thermoplastic compositions are used in cover layers, then the durability is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovedurabilityVSAvoidhardness control

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent specifies precise parameter ranges for the thermoplastic compositions, including hardness values (e.g., Shore D 40-60 for outer cover layer), material composition ratios, and thickness specifications. By controlling these parameters within defined ranges rather than exact values, the patent achieves durability improvements while accommodating reasonable manufacturing tolerances.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10799767B2Multi-layer golf ball

Publication Date: 2020.10.13 ACUSHNET CO

AI summary

Multi-piece golf balls having a multi-layered solid core and multi-layered cover are provided.