Golf Ball Dimple Layout Using Oriented Non-Spherical Dimples
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Solution Overview
Problem
Golf ball dimples with circular plan shapes limit dimple count and packing efficiency, leading to inconsistent airflow and visual uniformity, while existing non-spherical designs do not effectively optimize directional airflow and dimple flexibility.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of non-axially symmetric, non-spherical dimples with varying edge angles and orientation angles, defined by geometric centroids, to enhance airflow directionality and dimple arrangement on the golf ball surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If spherical dimples with circular plan shapes are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but dimple count and packing efficiency are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by transitioning from circular to non-circular dimple plan shapes. Specifically, the dimples have elliptical or irregular plan shapes with defined major and minor axes, allowing for optimized packing density. This asymmetric design enables more dimples to be accommodated on the golf ball surface while maintaining manufacturability through controlled deformation of the spherical dimple geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dimensional complexity by defining three-dimensional dimple geometries with varying depths and profiles. The dimples are characterized by parameters including maximum dimple depth, average edge angle, and plan shape dimensions, creating a multi-dimensional configuration that optimizes both packing efficiency and aerodynamic performance.
2Manufacturing precision
If circular plan-shaped dimples are used, then manufacturing consistency is maintained, but airflow consistency and visual uniformity are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating dimples with non-uniform geometric properties. Each dimple is characterized by specific parameters including major axis length, minor axis length, and maximum depth, which can be optimized locally for aerodynamic performance. The varying edge angles and depths are designed to create consistent airflow patterns while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through controlled local variations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If non-spherical dimple designs are used, then dimple flexibility and visual appearance are improved, but directional airflow optimization is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic optimization by varying the orientation angles of non-spherical dimples relative to the direction of airflow. The dimples are configured with specific orientation angles that can be adjusted to optimize airflow interaction. This dynamic arrangement allows the dimple pattern to adapt to different flight conditions and optimize aerodynamic performance while maintaining manufacturing feasibility.
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 non-spherical dimples optimize airflow in multiple directions, increase dimple count and flexibility, and provide a unique aesthetic appearance, maintaining smooth surfaces without distinct edges, thereby improving aerodynamic performance and visual appeal.
Implementation Method 1
Dimples improve the aerodynamic characteristics of a golf ball, and therefore, golf ball manufacturers continue to search for unique dimple patterns, shapes, volumes, and cross-sections which can maximize the aerodynamic performance of a golf ball
Data Source
AI summary
A golf ball has a generally spherical surface and a plurality of dimples separated by a land area formed on the surface. The plurality of dimples includes a plurality of non-spherical dimples each having a non-axially symmetric plan shape, a varying edge angle, and a geometric centroid of the non-axially symmetric plan shape (GC). Each dimple cross-section of each non-spherical dimple consists of two arcs, each arc extending from a defined point of maximum dimple depth to a point at the land area of the golf ball. Each non-spherical dimple is oriented at an orientation angle, α, relative to a reference line. The orientation angle α is dependent on the position of the GC on the surface of the golf ball.