Multi-piece Golf Ball Envelope Layer Hardness Gradient
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing golf balls with multilayer constructions do not fully optimize core hardness profiles and thickness relationships, resulting in suboptimal flight performance and feel for amateur golfers with low head speeds.
Innovation Solution
A multi-piece solid golf ball design with a core, inner and outer envelope layers, and an intermediate layer, where the surface hardnesses of the layers satisfy a specific relationship, and the envelope layers are primarily made of thermoplastic elastomers, optimizing the core hardness profile and layer thicknesses to enhance flight performance and feel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the envelope layer is made as a single layer, then the structure is simpler, but the flight performance and feel for low-head-speed golfers are suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The envelope layer is divided into two separate layers: an inner envelope layer and an outer envelope layer. This segmentation allows each layer to be optimized independently for specific functions, with the inner layer providing structural support and the outer layer enhancing flight characteristics, thereby improving overall flight performance without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the envelope layer are assigned different materials and properties. The inner envelope layer uses a material with specific hardness and elasticity for structural integrity, while the outer envelope layer uses a material optimized for flight performance and feel, creating local quality variations that enhance overall performance
2Speed
If the core hardness is increased, then the distance is improved, but the feel at impact becomes too hard for amateur golfers
Solution Approach 1:
The core hardness is varied locally through a hardness gradient profile, with the center of the core having higher hardness for distance and the outer regions having lower hardness for feel. This local quality variation allows the core to simultaneously provide distance and acceptable impact feel
Solution Approach 2:
The core is constructed as a composite structure with different materials or material compositions at different radial positions, creating a hardness gradient that transitions from hard center to softer outer regions, thereby balancing distance and feel requirements
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the layer thicknesses are increased, then the durability is improved, but the flight performance for low-head-speed golfers deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The thicknesses of the envelope layers and intermediate layer are precisely controlled within specific ranges to optimize the balance between durability and flight performance. By changing the dimensional parameters of each layer, the design achieves sufficient durability while maintaining optimal weight distribution and aerodynamic characteristics for low-head-speed golfers
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 golf ball achieves excellent flight performance and a soft, yet solid feel when hit by golfers with low head speeds, improving distance and durability.
Implementation Method 1
the inner envelope layer or outer envelope layer is formed primarily of one or more thermoplastic elastomer selected from the group consisting of polyester elastomers, polyamide elastomers, polyurethane elastomers, olefin elastomers and styrene elastomers
Data Source
AI summary
In a multi-piece solid golf ball having a core, an envelope layer, an intermediate layer and a cover, the envelope layer is formed into two layers—an inner envelope layer and an outer envelope layer. The inner envelope layer-encased sphere, outer envelope layer-encased sphere, intermediate layer-encased sphere and ball have respective surface hardnesses that satisfy a specific relationship. The inner envelope layer or outer envelope layer is formed primarily of one or more thermoplastic elastomer selected from the group consisting of polyester elastomers, polyamide elastomers, polyurethane elastomers, olefin elastomers and styrene elastomers. This ball has an excellent flight when struck by golfers whose head speeds are not that fast and has a good, soft feel at impact, thus making it highly suitable for amateur golfers.