Hex Geometry Golf Ball Protrusion for Drag Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current golf ball designs fail to optimize aerodynamic properties effectively, leading to suboptimal drag reduction and distance enhancement, despite advancements like hexagonal patterns and 'Dimple-in-Dimple' technologies.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a protrusion at the center of the hex geometry with an increased ball radius, and a cover layer with multi-faceted polygons or dimples, each with a protrusion extending from the center, to reduce drag by altering fluid flow dynamics and recirculation regions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional hexagonal patterns or Dimple-in-Dimple technology are used, then aerodynamic properties are improved to some extent, but drag reduction and distance enhancement are not optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by placing a protrusion at the specific location of the dimple center, creating a localized structural variation. This protrusion modifies the fluid flow dynamics precisely where needed - at the dimple center - to optimize aerodynamic performance while maintaining the overall dimple structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional dimple surface pattern to a three-dimensional structure by adding a protrusion that extends upward from the dimple center. This dimensional addition creates a new geometric feature that actively interacts with airflow, enhancing drag reduction beyond what flat or concave patterns alone can achieve
2Productivity
If protrusion height is increased to improve aerodynamic performance, then drag reduction increases, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies a protrusion height range of 0.0002 to 0.002 inches, representing a controlled parameter change that balances aerodynamic benefit with manufacturability. This quantitative parameter definition allows optimization of drag reduction while establishing tolerances that are achievable with standard manufacturing processes
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 significantly improves aerodynamic distance and trajectory by decreasing overall drag, as demonstrated by increased carry distance and apex height compared to control golf balls, with measured lift and drag values showing enhanced performance.
Implementation Method 1
to reduce drag by altering fluid flow dynamics and recirculation regions
Implementation Method 2
This design significantly improves aerodynamic distance and trajectory by decreasing overall drag
Data Source
AI summary
A golf ball with an aerodynamic design is disclosed herein. The aerodynamic design has a protrusion at a center of a hex geometry representing an increase in ball radius greater than 0.0005 inches from a minimum ball radius. The minimum ball radius is located between 0.01 and 0.04 inch (11%-46%) from the center of the hex geometry.