Golf Ball Dimples Superposed Curve Aerodynamic Drag
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing golf ball dimple profiles often result in insufficient aerodynamic performance, leading to reduced carry distance due to inadequate turbulence generation and drag reduction.
Innovation Solution
The golf ball dimple profiles are defined by a superposed curve comprising a first function, such as a circular arc or catenary curve, and a second function, which is a decaying sinusoidal function. This configuration introduces a secondary turbulence-generating roughness, promoting delayed separation and reducing the wake region behind the golf ball.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional dimple profiles (parabolic, ellipsoidal, semi-spherical) are used, then manufacturing is simple, but aerodynamic performance is insufficient due to sharp intrusion into ball surface causing excessive drag
Solution Approach 1:
The dimple profile is segmented into multiple functional zones along its depth: an upper portion with gentle curvature that minimizes surface intrusion, and a lower portion with enhanced roughness features that generate turbulence. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function optimally without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the dimple profile are given different geometric properties tailored to their specific aerodynamic functions. The upper region features smoother transitions to reduce drag, while the lower region incorporates enhanced roughness elements to maximize turbulence generation. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction by optimizing each zone for its specific purpose.
2Reliability
If dimples sharply intrude into the ball surface to generate turbulence, then turbulence generation improves, but drag increases beyond lift
Solution Approach 1:
The dimple profile is designed to gradually transition from smooth to rough features as air flows along the ball surface. The upper portion first gently disrupts the boundary layer, and the lower portion subsequently enhances turbulence. This preliminary action sequence allows turbulence to develop progressively without causing immediate excessive drag.
Solution Approach 2:
The dimple profile utilizes carefully controlled curvature variations throughout its depth. The upper portion employs gentle curvature to minimize surface intrusion and drag, while the lower portion uses enhanced curvature changes to generate turbulence. This curvature differentiation allows the profile to achieve both low drag and effective turbulence generation.
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 profile design enhances aerodynamic performance by creating a more localized and effective turbulence effect, resulting in improved lift and reduced drag, which translates to increased carry distance and better flight control.
Implementation Method 1
The dimples on the ball create a turbulent boundary layer around the ball, i.e., a thin layer of air adjacent to the ball flows in a turbulent manner. The turbulence energizes the boundary layer of air around the ball and helps it stay attached further around the ball to reduce the area of the wake.
Implementation Method 2
The dimples on a golf ball are important in reducing drag and increasing lift. Drag is the air resistance that acts on the golf ball in the opposite direction from the ball flight direction.
Implementation Method 3
introduces a secondary turbulence-generating roughness on the surface of the golf ball to promote delayed separation from the golf ball's surface and ultimately decrease the size of the wake region trailing the golf ball.
Data Source
AI summary
A golf ball having a plurality of dimples on a surface thereof is disclosed herein. At least a first group of the plurality of dimples has a cross-sectional dimple profile defined by a superposed function resulting from a sum of at least a first function and a second function. The first function can be defined by at least one of: a circular arc or a catenary curve, and the second function can be defined by a decaying sinusoidal function.