Golf Ball Dimple Plan Shape Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current golf ball designs lack focus on dimple plan shape as a variable for optimizing aerodynamic characteristics, leading to suboptimal packing efficiency and aerodynamic performance.
Innovation Solution
The use of dimples with perimeters defined by low frequency periodic functions along simple closed paths, such as sine, cosine, sawtooth wave, triangle wave, or square wave functions, to create non-circular shapes with high amplitudes and interdigitation, enhancing packing efficiency and surface coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional dimple designs are used, then manufacturing is simple, but aerodynamic performance and packing efficiency are suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the mathematical parameters of the periodic function (amplitude, period, frequency) to optimize dimple packing efficiency and aerodynamic performance. By adjusting these parameters, the invention achieves improved surface coverage and interdigitation without fundamentally changing the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes periodic action by employing periodic functions (sine, cosine, sawtooth wave, triangle wave, square wave) to define the dimple perimeters. This periodic mathematical structure creates consistent, repeating patterns that maximize packing efficiency while maintaining manufacturability through standard molding processes.
2Area of stationary object
If dimple plan shape is optimized for packing efficiency, then surface coverage increases, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the mathematical parameters of the periodic function to achieve optimal surface coverage. By adjusting amplitude and period values within specific ranges, the invention maximizes dimple interdigitation while keeping the manufacturing process within standard precision capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies curvature principles by using smooth periodic functions to define dimple perimeters. The curved, continuous boundaries created by sine, cosine, and other periodic functions provide better packing efficiency compared to sharp geometric shapes, while remaining compatible with standard manufacturing tolerances.
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 approach results in improved aerodynamic performance and unique visual appearances for golf balls, with increased surface coverage and interdigitation of neighboring dimples, allowing for better control of 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
at least a portion of dimples having a plan shape defined by low frequency periodic functions having high amplitudes
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.