Multi-layer Golf Ball Core with Functionalized Nanostructures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional golf balls with multi-layer cores lack the necessary durability and strength to withstand the impact of a club face effectively, particularly due to the absence of advanced materials that enhance elasticity and resistance.
Innovation Solution
A golf ball design incorporating an intermediate core layer formed from a composite composition comprising functionalized nanostructures, such as nanoflakes, nanofibers, nanotubes, and nanoparticles, which are mixed with conductive nanoshelled structures like zinc oxide or magnesium oxide, improving compatibility and enhancing durability and strength without compromising elasticity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional multi-layer core construction is used, then the golf ball can be manufactured with standard materials and processes, but the durability and strength to withstand club face impact is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by incorporating functionalized nanostructures (such as carbon nanotubes, graphene, nanofibers) into the intermediate core layer composition. These nanostructures form a composite material system that combines polymer matrix with reinforcing nanophases, providing enhanced strength and durability while maintaining the multi-layer core structure. The composite composition includes conductive nanoshelled structures mixed with the functionalized nanostructures to create a synergistic material system.
2Reliability
If advanced nanostructured composite materials are incorporated to enhance strength and durability, then the golf ball can better withstand club face impact, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the physical and chemical properties of the intermediate core layer through the incorporation of nanostructures. The composition parameters include specific ratios of functionalized nanostructures to conductive nanoshelled structures, molecular weight of polymers, and crosslinking density. These parameter adjustments enable the material to achieve optimal balance between impact resistance and manufacturability by controlling the nanocomposite formulation and processing conditions.
3Strength
If the intermediate core layer is made harder to increase strength, then the golf ball withstands impact better, but the elasticity and energy return are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating spatial variation in the core layer properties through the multi-layer construction. The intermediate core layer with functionalized nanostructures provides localized reinforcement at the impact interface, while the inner and outer core layers maintain softer properties for energy absorption and return. This gradient structure allows different regions to perform different functions: the nanostructured intermediate layer handles impact strength, while the other layers preserve elasticity.
Solution Approach 2:
The composite material system in the intermediate core layer combines polymer matrix with functionalized nanostructures and conductive nanoshelled structures to achieve a balance between strength and elasticity. The nanostructures provide reinforcement and energy dissipation mechanisms through their unique mechanical properties, allowing the material to exhibit both high strength for impact resistance and sufficient elasticity for energy return, resolving the contradiction between these two properties.
Data Source
AI summary
Golf balls comprising a multi-layer core and a cover are disclosed. The multi-layer core comprises at least one intermediate core layer formed from a composite composition comprising functionalized nano-structures. The functionalized nano-structures may be selected from the group consisting of functionalized polymer nano-structures, functionalized metallic nano-structures, and functionalized elemental nano-structures. For example, the functionalized nano-structures may comprise functionalized graphene, functionalized carbon nanotube, and/or functionalized polyamide nano-fiber. The functionalized nano-structures may be mixed/blended or otherwise combined with conductive nanoshelled structures in the composite composition.