Golf Ball Flexural Modulus Gradient for Spin and Durability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-layer golf balls face challenges in maintaining durability while retaining a soft feel and achieving desired spin characteristics, as existing designs often compromise on either durability or feel.
Innovation Solution
A five-piece golf ball construction with specific flexural modulus gradients in core and mantle layers, where the flexural modulus increases from the core to the outer mantle layer, with at least one mantle layer having a higher modulus than its adjacent layer, to provide extra support and maintain the soft feel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multi-layer golf ball construction is used to improve spin characteristics, then spin control is improved, but durability deteriorates due to layer cracking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by carefully controlling the flexural modulus values and thickness ratios of each mantle layer. The intermediate mantle layer has a flexural modulus of 0.5-2.0 Msi, the outer mantle layer has 0.7-2.5 Msi, and their thickness ratio (intermediate/outer) is maintained between 0.3-1.5. These specific parameter ranges optimize the balance between spin generation and crack prevention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials by combining multiple mantle layers with different flexural modulus values and material compositions. The intermediate and outer mantle layers are made from different elastomeric materials with tailored properties, creating a composite structure that provides both spin control and durability through the synergistic interaction of layers with complementary characteristics.
2Reliability
If multiple mantle layers with increasing flexural modulus are used to improve durability, then structural support is improved, but soft feel deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different flexural modulus values to different regions (layers) of the golf ball. The intermediate mantle layer has a lower flexural modulus (0.5-2.0 Msi) than the outer mantle layer (0.7-2.5 Msi), creating a gradient where softer material is positioned closer to the core for feel, while harder material is positioned outward for durability. This localized variation in material properties resolves the contradiction between soft feel and durability.
3Reliability
If mantle layer flexural modulus increases from inner to outer layers, then durability is improved, but spin characteristics worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by precisely controlling the flexural modulus values and their ratio between layers. The intermediate mantle layer has flexural modulus of 0.5-2.0 Msi and the outer mantle layer has 0.7-2.5 Msi, with their thickness ratio maintained at 0.3-1.5. This specific parameter configuration generates spin by creating controlled stress differences during impact, while simultaneously providing durability through the progressive modulus increase that prevents cracking.
Data Source
AI summary
A golf ball comprises (a) a core, (b) an inner mantle layer, (c) an intermediate mantle layer, (d) an outer mantle layer and (e) at least one cover layer, and the material flexural modulus (FM) of the core and the various layers follows the relationship FM(core)<FM(inner mantle)>FM(intermediate)<FM(outer mantle)>FM(cover), or the relationship FM(core)<FM(inner mantle)<FM(intermediate)>FM(outer mantle)>FM(cover).