Golf Ball Dimple Plan Shapes Using Periodic Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Golf ball manufacturers face challenges in achieving optimal aerodynamic characteristics due to limited focus on dimple plan shape, which affects surface coverage uniformity and packing efficiency, while maintaining desirable aerodynamic performance.
Innovation Solution
The use of non-circular dimple plan shapes defined by low frequency periodic functions along simple closed paths, such as sine, cosine, sawtooth wave, or square wave functions, to enhance dimple packing efficiency and surface coverage uniformity, allowing for greater control over aerodynamic characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If non-circular dimple plan shapes defined by low frequency periodic functions are used, then dimple packing efficiency and surface coverage uniformity are enhanced, but aerodynamic performance may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by transitioning from traditional circular dimple plan shapes to non-circular shapes defined by low frequency periodic functions. This asymmetric design allows for optimized surface coverage and packing efficiency while the periodic nature of the function ensures consistent aerodynamic characteristics across the dimple pattern.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by using low frequency periodic functions to define dimple boundaries, where parameters such as frequency, amplitude, and phase can be adjusted to optimize both packing efficiency and aerodynamic performance. This mathematical approach provides precise control over dimple geometry.
2Stability of the object's composition
If non-circular dimple plan shapes are used to maximize surface coverage, then uniformity of surface texture is improved, but aerodynamic characteristics may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using low frequency periodic functions to define the plan shape of dimples. This periodic mathematical foundation ensures that dimples are distributed uniformly across the surface while maintaining consistent aerodynamic properties, as the periodic nature creates a repeating pattern that balances coverage and flow characteristics.
3Reliability
If traditional circular dimple shapes are used, then aerodynamic performance is maintained, but surface coverage uniformity and packing efficiency are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent breaks from the symmetric circular shape by implementing non-circular dimple plan shapes defined by periodic functions. This asymmetric approach enables better surface coverage and packing efficiency while the controlled nature of the periodic function preserves aerodynamic performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes in the periodic functions defining dimple shapes to optimize both surface coverage and aerodynamic characteristics, moving beyond the fixed geometry of traditional circular dimples.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to golf balls having improved aerodynamic performance due, at least in part, to the selection of the plan shapes of the dimples thereon. In particular, the present invention is directed to a golf ball that includes at least a portion of its dimples having a plan shape defined by a low frequency periodic function mapped along a simple closed path. In addition, the present invention provides methods for designing dimples having a plan shape defined by a low frequency periodic function mapped along a simple closed path.