Polyurethane Golf Ball Cover Crosslink Density Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing golf balls with polyurethane resin covers lack excellent controllability on approach shots and scuff resistance.

Innovation Solution

Adjusting the crosslink density of the polyurethane resin cover within a specific range, combined with specifying the relationship between crosslink density, Shore D hardness, and number-average molecular weight of the polyol component, to enhance spin rate and scuff resistance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If polyurethane resin is used as cover material to improve durability, then scuff resistance is enhanced, but controllability on approach shots deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescuff resistanceVSAvoidcontrollability on approach shots
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by precisely controlling the crosslink density of polyurethane resin within the range of 1.4×10² to 35×10² mol/m³. This specific parameter range optimizes the balance between scuff resistance and spin rate on approach shots, resolving the contradiction between durability and controllability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If crosslink density of polyurethane resin is increased to enhance scuff resistance, then durability is improved, but spin rate on approach shots deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescuff resistanceVSAvoidspin rate on approach shots
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by establishing an optimal crosslink density range of 1.4×10² to 35×10² mol/m³ for polyurethane resin. This specific range ensures that the cover maintains sufficient scuff resistance while preserving the spin rate necessary for controllability on approach shots.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If crosslink density of polyurethane resin is increased to enhance scuff resistance, then durability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescuff resistanceVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by specifying a concrete crosslink density range (1.4×10² to 35×10² mol/m³) that can be achieved through conventional manufacturing processes. This approach enhances scuff resistance without requiring complex or specialized manufacturing equipment or procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20250153009A1Golf ball and method of manufacture
Publication Date: 2025.05.15 BRIDGESTONE SPORTS CO LTD
  • US20250153009A1 patent drawing

AI summary

In a golf ball having a core and a cover, the cover is formed of a resin composition made chiefly of a polyurethane resin having a crosslink density of at least 1.4×102 mol/m3 and not more than 35×102 mol/m3, so that the golf ball has an excellent controllability on approach shots and an excellent scuff resistance compared with golf balls having a conventional urethane cover.