Golf Ball Subsurface Dimples for Aerodynamic Symmetry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current golf ball dimple patterns face challenges in achieving optimal aerodynamic efficiency and surface coverage while maintaining aerodynamic symmetry, as limited geometric shapes and arrangements result in suboptimal performance characteristics.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of subsurface dimples on a golf ball, where the first subsurface is offset from the exterior surface by a specific radius, allowing for additional dimples to be placed below the exterior surface, creating a unique dimple arrangement that enhances aerodynamic properties and surface coverage without compromising symmetry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional geometric dimple patterns are used, then aerodynamic symmetry is maintained, but surface coverage and aerodynamic efficiency are suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces subsurfaces that extend beyond the traditional two-dimensional surface of the golf ball into a third dimension, creating multiple levels of dimple arrangements. This dimensional expansion allows for increased surface coverage and improved aerodynamic efficiency while maintaining symmetry through systematic repetition of the multi-level pattern.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nested dimple structures where dimples are arranged on multiple subsurfaces at different depths and positions. Inner subsurfaces contain dimples that are nested within the overall pattern, creating a hierarchical arrangement that maximizes surface coverage while maintaining aerodynamic symmetry.
2Area of stationary object
If dimple surface coverage is increased, then aerodynamic efficiency improves, but maintaining aerodynamic symmetry becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the golf ball surface into multiple discrete subsurfaces, each containing specific dimple arrangements. This segmentation allows for systematic distribution of dimples across the entire surface, ensuring that symmetry is maintained through consistent repetition of the segmented pattern while achieving high overall surface coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different dimple configurations to different subsurfaces based on their local position and orientation on the ball. Each subsurface has optimized dimple characteristics tailored to its specific location, while the overall pattern maintains global symmetry through systematic arrangement of these locally optimized features.
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
This design improves aerodynamic efficiency by optimizing dimple placement and surface coverage, leading to better flight characteristics and performance, while adhering to U.S.G.A. requirements for symmetry.
Implementation Method 1
Lift force is perpendicular to the direction of flight and is a result of air velocity differences above and below the rotating ball. This phenomenon is attributed to Magnus, who described it in 1853 after studying the aerodynamic forces on spinning spheres and cylinders
Implementation Method 2
Bernoulli's equation relates pressure and velocity where pressure is inversely proportional to the square of velocity. The velocity differential, due to faster moving air on top and slower moving air on the bottom, results in lower air pressure on top and an upward directed force on the ball
Implementation Method 3
Drag is opposite in sense to the direction of flight and orthogonal to lift. The drag force on a ball is attributed to parasitic drag forces, which consist of pressure drag and viscous or skin friction drag
Implementation Method 4
In order to minimize pressure drag, dimples provide a means to energize the flow field and delay the separation of flow, or reduce the wake region behind the ball
Implementation Method 5
Skin friction is a viscous effect residing close to the surface of the ball within the boundary layer
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a golf ball having an aerodynamic subsurface for packing dimples. More particularly, the invention relates to a golf ball having an exterior surface and at least a first subsurface containing at least two dimples located solely on the subsurface and lying below the exterior surface of the golf ball. A transition zone between the exterior surface and the subsurface is disclosed having an angle of transition and a top radius and a bottom radius. According to the present invention, the exterior surface and at least the first subsurface have at least a first and second surface colors that are different.