Golf Ball Dimple Plan Shapes Using Periodic Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current golf ball designs lack optimization in dimple plan shape, which affects aerodynamic characteristics such as lift and drag, and there is a need for improved dimple packing efficiency and surface coverage uniformity.
Innovation Solution
The use of dimples with non-circular plan shapes defined by low frequency periodic functions along simple closed paths, such as sine, sawtooth, triangle, or square waveforms, to enhance dimple geometry and aerodynamic performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional circular dimple shapes are used, then manufacturing is simple, but aerodynamic characteristics and surface coverage uniformity are suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from circular dimple shapes to non-circular shapes defined by mathematical functions (sinusoidal, triangular, square waveforms). This changes the geometric parameters of the dimples while maintaining manufacturability through standardized function-based definitions, thereby improving aerodynamic performance consistency without significantly complicating the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetry by using non-circular dimple plan shapes that break the symmetry of traditional circular dimples. The asymmetric shapes defined by periodic functions create varied flow patterns around each dimple, enhancing turbulence generation and improving aerodynamic characteristics while maintaining uniform surface coverage through systematic arrangement.
2Device complexity
If dimple plan shape is not optimized, then design is simple, but aerodynamic characteristics such as lift and drag are not maximized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes aerodynamic performance by changing the dimensional and geometric parameters of dimples through function-defined shapes. By varying amplitude, frequency, and phase parameters of the defining functions, the patent achieves superior lift and drag characteristics while keeping the design systematic rather than arbitrarily complex.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies periodic action through the use of periodic functions (sinusoidal, triangular, square waves) to define dimple boundaries. These periodic patterns create consistent flow disturbances across the dimple surface, generating reliable turbulence that enhances aerodynamic performance through repeatable flow separation and reattachment patterns.
3Reliability
If non-circular dimple shapes are used, then aerodynamic control is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent manages manufacturing precision requirements by defining dimple shapes through mathematical functions with controllable parameters. This allows for standardized manufacturing processes that can achieve the required precision through function-based toolpaths and molds, rather than requiring complex custom shaping for each dimple variant.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves universality by using a family of periodic functions that can generate multiple dimple shape variants from a single design framework. This multi-functional approach allows different aerodynamic characteristics to be achieved through parameter adjustment rather than requiring entirely different manufacturing processes for each shape type.
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 greater control over aerodynamic characteristics, improved dimple packing efficiency, and uniform surface coverage, resulting in enhanced golf ball flight performance and resistance to wear.
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. The turbulence energizes the boundary layer and helps it stay attached further around the ball to reduce the area of the wake.
Implementation Method 2
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.
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 plan shapes of the dimples thereon. 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 low frequency periodic functions along a closed simple path. In addition, the present invention provides methods for designing dimples having a plan shape defined by a low frequency periodic function along a closed simple path.