Golf Ball Dimple Plan Shapes Using Periodic Functions
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current golf ball designs are limited by circular dimples, which restrict aerodynamic optimization due to packing efficiency and number, necessitating the exploration of non-circular dimple shapes to alter boundary layer flow and laminar to turbulent transition.
Innovation Solution
The use of dimples with non-circular plan shapes defined by high frequency periodic functions along simple closed paths, such as sine, cosine, sawtooth wave, triangle wave, or square wave functions, to create a larger transition zone on the external surface geometry, influencing aerodynamic behavior.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If circular dimples are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but aerodynamic optimization is limited due to packing efficiency constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by transitioning from traditional circular dimples to non-circular dimple patterns. The dimples are positioned asymmetrically on the golf ball surface, with varying sizes and shapes that are not uniformly distributed. This asymmetric arrangement optimizes aerodynamic performance by creating more effective turbulence and boundary layer separation patterns, while still maintaining manufacturing feasibility through mold-based formation processes.
2Productivity
If non-circular dimple shapes are used, then aerodynamic characteristics can be fine-tuned, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by systematically varying dimple dimensions including diameter, depth, spacing, and distribution patterns. By adjusting these geometric parameters within specific ranges and combinations, the invention achieves fine-tuned aerodynamic optimization. The non-circular shapes and varying sizes are implemented through controlled parameter variations that can be realized using conventional molding techniques, thus managing manufacturing complexity while maximizing aerodynamic performance.
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 approach allows for fine-tuning of aerodynamic characteristics by altering boundary layer flow and enhancing dimple packing efficiency and surface coverage uniformity, leading to improved golf ball performance.
Implementation Method 1
the dimples on a golf ball create a turbulent boundary layer around the ball, i.e., the air in a thin layer adjacent to the ball flows in a turbulent manner
Implementation Method 2
alter the boundary layer flow and laminar to turbulent transition
Implementation Method 3
The turbulence energizes the boundary layer and helps it stay attached further around the ball to reduce the area of the wake
Implementation Method 4
Lift is defined as the aerodynamic force component acting perpendicular to the flight path. It results from a difference in pressure that is created by a distortion in the air flow that results from the back spin of the ball
Implementation Method 5
Due to the back spin, the top of the ball moves with the air flow, which delays the separation to a point further aft. Conversely, the bottom of the ball moves against the air flow, moving the separation point forward
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to golf balls having improved aerodynamic performance due, at least in part, to the selection of the dimple plan shapes. In particular, the present invention is directed to a golf ball that includes at least a portion of its dimples having a plan shape defined by high frequency periodic functions along a simple closed path. In addition, the present invention provides methods for producing dimples having a plan shape defined by a high frequency periodic function along a simple closed path.