Golf Ball Dimple Plan Shapes Using Periodic Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current golf ball designs lack optimal dimple plan shapes that maximize surface coverage uniformity and packing efficiency while maintaining desirable aerodynamic characteristics, with little focus on the perimeter or boundaries of dimples as a key variable in controlling aerodynamic behavior.
Innovation Solution
The use of dimples with plan shapes defined by low frequency periodic functions, such as sine, cosine, sawtooth wave, triangle wave, or square wave, along simple closed paths, which provide a high degree of interdigitation and surface coverage, with parameters like amplitude and period optimized to enhance aerodynamic performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional dimple designs are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but surface coverage uniformity and packing efficiency are suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by defining dimple plan shapes using mathematical functions with specific parameters (amplitude, period, frequency) that can be systematically varied to optimize surface coverage uniformity and packing efficiency while maintaining manufacturability through controlled geometric variations
2Ease of manufacture
If dimple plan shapes are simplified, then manufacturing is easier, but aerodynamic performance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes curvature principles by employing smooth mathematical functions (sine, cosine, exponential) to define dimple perimeters, creating curved boundaries that improve aerodynamic flow characteristics while remaining compatible with standard manufacturing processes through controlled geometric forms
3Quantity of substance
If dimple packing is optimized, then surface coverage increases, but dimple interdigitation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by using non-circular dimple plan shapes with specific geometric configurations that enable neighboring dimples to interdigitate more effectively, creating a stable packed arrangement that simultaneously maximizes surface coverage through optimized spatial distribution
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 proposed dimple design improves aerodynamic performance by increasing interlockability of neighboring dimples, leading to higher packing efficiency and surface coverage, while providing a unique visual appearance and tailored aerodynamic characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
The dimples on a golf ball create a turbulent boundary layer around the ball, i.e., the air in a thin layer adjacent to the ball flows in a turbulent manner. The turbulence energizes the boundary layer and helps it stay attached further around the ball to reduce the area of the wake.
Implementation Method 2
a golf ball dimple having a perimeter defined by a low frequency periodic function along a simple closed path according to the following function: Q(x)=Fpath(l,scl,x)*Fperiodic(s,a,p,x)
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to golf balls having improved packing efficiency and aerodynamic characteristics and a high degree of dimple interdigitation. In particular, the present invention relates to a golf ball including at least a portion of dimples having a plan shape defined by low frequency periodic functions having high amplitudes. The present invention is also directed to methods of developing the dimple plan shape geometries, as well as methods of making the finished golf balls with the inventive dimple patterns applied thereto.