Golf Ball Dimple Pattern for Drag-Lift Flight Balance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing golf balls do not effectively optimize aerodynamic performance for improved flight control and distance.
Innovation Solution
A golf ball design with specific dimple patterns and parameters, including drag and lift coefficients, integrated drag area, and construction layers to enhance aerodynamic characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional dimple patterns are used, then manufacturing is simple, but aerodynamic performance is not optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by specifying precise dimple geometric parameters (depth, diameter, spacing) and aerodynamic parameters (drag coefficient Cd=0.230-0.250, lift coefficient Cl≥0.115) to optimize flight performance. The dimple pattern parameters including surface coverage (70-85%), dimple count (200-400), and dimple volume (0.02-0.06 in³) are carefully controlled to achieve the desired aerodynamic characteristics while maintaining manufacturability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by combining multiple layers with different properties: a core layer (1.2-1.6 ounces, 1.5-1.65 inches diameter) with a cover layer featuring the optimized dimple pattern. This multi-layer construction allows independent optimization of each layer's properties to achieve both structural integrity and aerodynamic performance
2Length of moving object
If drag coefficient is reduced for longer distance, then flight distance increases, but flight control becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the balance between drag and lift coefficients to achieve both distance and control. The drag coefficient is constrained to Cd=0.230-0.250 while the lift coefficient is optimized to Cl≥0.115 at Re=240,000 and spin ratio=0.060. This parameter optimization creates an integrated drag area of 14,500-15,500, which provides the right balance for both extended flight distance and maintainable flight control through the relationship between drag and lift forces
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes asymmetric dimple distribution patterns where dimples are strategically positioned to create differential aerodynamic forces. The dimple pattern includes variations in dimple size, depth, and spacing across different regions of the ball surface, creating asymmetric flow separation and pressure distribution that generates controlled lift while maintaining acceptable drag levels for optimized flight distance
3Stability of the object's composition
If lift coefficient is increased for better flight stability, then flight control improves, but drag increases reducing distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the lift-to-drag ratio by carefully selecting dimple parameters that maximize lift while minimizing drag penalties. The lift coefficient is optimized to Cl≥0.115 at Re=240,000 and spin ratio=0.060, while the drag coefficient is constrained to Cd=0.230-0.250. This creates an optimal lift-to-drag relationship where flight stability is improved without excessive energy loss, achieving both stability and distance
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
The design provides enhanced control over golf ball flight and distance by optimizing aerodynamic performance.
Implementation Method 1
the drag coefficient has the following range: 0.230≤CD≤0.250 at a Reynolds number of 220,000 and a spin ratio of 0.070
Implementation Method 2
the lift coefficient has the following range: CL≥0.115 at a Reynolds number of 240,000 and a spin ratio of 0.060
Implementation Method 3
at a Reynolds number of 220,000 and a spin ratio of 0.070; the drag coefficient has the following range: 0.230≤CD≤0.250 at a Reynolds number of 160,000
Data Source
AI summary
A golf ball is disclosed herein that has at least one modified aerodynamic characteristic or performance trait. More specifically, the golf ball disclosed herein can include a dimple pattern having a specific drag coefficient and/or specific integrated drag area.