Multi-layer Core Golf Ball Hardness Gradient Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current golf ball designs with multi-layer cores lack optimal combinations of materials and structures that balance hardness, compression, and spin rate, leading to suboptimal performance in terms of distance and control.
Innovation Solution
A golf ball design featuring an inner core layer made from a highly neutralized polymer composition and an outer core layer formed from a thermoset rubber composition, with optional intermediate layers, optimized for specific hardness and compression profiles to enhance performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a multi-layer core structure is used, then spin rate control is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The core is divided into multiple layers with different material compositions and properties. The inner core layer provides one set of characteristics while the outer core layer provides another, allowing independent optimization of spin rate control without requiring complex manufacturing processes for each layer
Solution Approach 2:
Different polymer compositions are used in each core layer to achieve desired performance characteristics. The inner core uses one material composition while the outer core uses a different composition, creating a composite structure that balances spin control with manufacturing feasibility
2Strength
If the outer core layer hardness is increased, then distance performance is improved, but control capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Different hardness levels are assigned to different regions of the core. The outer core layer has a specific hardness range (50-90 Shore C) optimized for distance, while the inner core layer has different properties optimized for control, allowing each region to perform its specific function
Solution Approach 2:
The solution moves from a single-layer uniform structure to a multi-layer structure with radial variation in material properties. This dimensional change allows simultaneous optimization of distance (outer layer) and control (inner layer) by distributing functions across different radial zones
Data Source
AI summary
Golf balls comprising a multi-layer core and a cover are disclosed. The multi-layer core comprises a layer formed from a highly neutralized polymer composition and a layer formed from a thermoset rubber.