Golf Ball Dimples with Asymmetric Edge Angles for Trajectory Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing golf balls do not effectively stabilize the trajectory of the ball in flight, as they focus primarily on improving distance without ensuring stable aerodynamic performance and trajectory stability.
Innovation Solution
The golf ball features a unique cross-sectional dimple shape where edge angles at specific depths (10%, 20%, and 30%) follow the condition ED1 < ED2 > ED3, with these dimples accounting for at least 10% of the total, and additional conditions on edge angles at 40%, 50%, and 60% depths to optimize aerodynamic performance and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If dimples are optimized for distance improvement, then the ball travels farther, but the trajectory stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating different dimple types with distinct cross-sectional shapes (convex, concave, flat bottom) distributed across the ball surface. Each dimple type has specific edge angle characteristics at different depth percentages, allowing localized optimization of aerodynamic properties while maintaining overall trajectory stability through the combination of multiple dimple types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetry by defining specific edge angle relationships (ED1 < ED2 > ED3) that create asymmetric dimple profiles. This asymmetric geometry optimizes the interaction between the dimples and airflow, improving both distance and trajectory stability by creating favorable pressure distributions and flow attachment characteristics.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional dimple shapes are used, then manufacturing is simple, but aerodynamic performance and flight stability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by specifying precise edge angle ranges at different depth percentages (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%) of the dimple depth. These parameter specifications ensure consistent aerodynamic performance across all dimples while allowing for standard manufacturing processes. The edge angle parameters are controlled within specific ranges to achieve reliable flight stability without requiring complex manufacturing techniques.
3Length of moving object
If dimple depth variation is optimized, then distance increases, but trajectory stability does not improve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the dimple depth into multiple percentage levels (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%) and specifying edge angle characteristics at each level. This segmentation allows for precise control of the dimple profile shape, creating optimal aerodynamic performance for distance while the consistent application of these segmented parameters across all dimples ensures trajectory stability.
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 configuration results in a stable trajectory and improved flight stability by optimizing the edge angles of the dimples, reducing variation in the ball's flight path and enhancing aerodynamic performance.
Implementation Method 1
air resistance during flight is reduced by dimples formed on a ball surface to improve aerodynamic properties
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a golf ball in which a large number of dimples are formed on a ball surface, and when edge angles at points where depths are 10%, 20%, and 30% in a cross-section of one dimple are denoted by ED1, ED2, and ED3, respectively, dimples having a cross-sectional shape satisfying the following condition (1):ED1<ED2>ED3 (1)account for at least 10% of a total number of the dimples.