Golf Ball Dimple Zoning for Drag and Lift Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing golf balls lack optimal aerodynamic performance attributes, particularly in terms of drag and lift coefficients, which affect flight control and distance.
Innovation Solution
The golf ball design incorporates specific dimple patterns and configurations that provide targeted drag and lift coefficients, along with a multi-layered construction, to enhance aerodynamic performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional dimple patterns are used, then manufacturing is simple, but aerodynamic performance (drag and lift coefficients) is suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating distinct dimple zones with different characteristics: a first dimple zone with specific drag coefficients (0.230-0.250) and a second dimple zone with different drag coefficients (0.210-0.230). This spatial differentiation of dimple properties optimizes aerodynamic performance in different flight conditions without requiring complete redesign of the entire surface pattern.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying multiple dimple characteristics including diameter (0.100-0.200 inches), depth (0.020-0.050 inches), surface coverage (60-80%), and drag coefficients across different zones. These parameter variations enable precise control over drag and lift coefficients while maintaining manufacturability through standardized molding processes.
2Reliability
If multi-layered construction is implemented, then aerodynamic performance is enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the golf ball into distinct functional layers: a core layer providing structural integrity and energy storage, an intermediate layer offering transition and additional aerodynamic contribution, and a cover layer with optimized dimple patterns. This segmentation allows each layer to be manufactured separately and then bonded together, managing complexity through modular construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by combining different material properties across layers: the core uses high-resilience materials for energy storage, the intermediate layer uses materials with intermediate properties for transition, and the cover uses materials optimized for aerodynamic performance and dimple formation. This composite approach enhances overall performance while allowing each material to be optimized for its specific function.
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 designed dimple patterns and constructions improve flight control and distance by optimizing drag and lift coefficients, resulting in enhanced 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, such that: CL≥0.115 at a Reynolds number of 240,000 and a spin ratio of 0.060
Implementation Method 3
The golf ball can have a compression (C0) of greater than 40, and the golf ball has a coefficient of restitution (COR), such that the golf ball compression (C0) and golf ball coefficient of restitution (COR) have the following relationship
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.