Golf Ball Dimple Layout for Multi-Condition Aerodynamic Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing golf balls do not effectively optimize aerodynamic performance for improved flight control and distance.
Innovation Solution
A golf ball design with specific dimple patterns and configurations that provide targeted drag and lift coefficients across various Reynolds numbers and spin ratios, along with integrated drag areas, to enhance aerodynamic characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional dimple patterns are used, then manufacturing is simple, but aerodynamic performance is not optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying dimple depth, diameter, spacing, and arrangement patterns to optimize aerodynamic performance. Specific parameters include dimple depth ratios (e.g., 0.03-0.07 times golf ball diameter), diameter ratios (e.g., 0.08-0.15 times golf ball diameter), and spacing configurations that create targeted drag and lift coefficients across different Reynolds numbers and spin ratios
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by creating non-uniform dimple distributions across the golf ball surface. Different zones feature varying dimple densities, depths, and patterns - such as concentrated dimple regions near the equator versus sparser regions at the poles - to locally optimize aerodynamic forces for specific flight conditions and spin rates
2Reliability
If dimple pattern is optimized for specific Reynolds numbers, then aerodynamic performance improves, but performance across various flight conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves universality by designing a dimple pattern that simultaneously optimizes performance across multiple Reynolds numbers (e.g., 100,000-300,000 range) and spin ratios (e.g., 0.05-0.15 range). The multi-zone configuration with varying dimple characteristics ensures consistent aerodynamic performance whether the golf ball is traveling at 150 mph or 250 mph, and whether spinning at low or high rates
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by creating a dimple pattern that adapts its aerodynamic characteristics based on flight conditions. The specific spacing and depth variations cause the boundary layer transition behavior to change dynamically with Reynolds number, maintaining optimal drag and lift coefficients across the full spectrum of golf ball flight velocities and spin rates
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 design achieves improved flight control and distance by optimizing aerodynamic performance, balancing drag and lift forces for enhanced golf ball behavior.
Implementation Method 1
The cover can comprise a plurality of dimples arranged in a dimple pattern that has or exhibits a series of drag coefficients (CD) and lift coefficients (CL) across a variety of Reynolds numbers and spin ratios
Implementation Method 2
the golf ball can have a lift coefficient such that: CL≥0.115 at a Reynolds number of 240,000 and a spin ratio of 0.060
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.