Multi-layer Core Golf Ball Material Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing golf ball designs with multi-layer cores lack optimal combinations of materials and structures that balance hardness, compression, and durability, leading to subpar performance in terms of distance and control.

Innovation Solution

A golf ball design featuring a multi-layer core comprising an inner core layer from a thermoset rubber composition, one or more intermediate core layers from highly neutralized polymer compositions, and an outer core layer from thermoset rubber or diene rubber compositions, with specific thickness and hardness ranges, along with a cover layer, to enhance performance characteristics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a multi-layer core structure is used with thermoset rubber and highly neutralized polymer compositions, then the coefficient of restitution and spin rate are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoefficient of restitutionVSAvoidcore structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The core is divided into multiple layers with distinct material compositions and properties. The inner core layer uses thermoset rubber composition, the intermediate core layer uses highly neutralized polymer composition, and the outer core layer uses thermoset or diene rubber composition. This segmentation allows each layer to contribute specific performance characteristics that collectively improve the coefficient of restitution and spin rate.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs composite material construction by combining thermoset rubber, highly neutralized polymer, and diene rubber compositions in a multi-layer configuration. Each material brings unique properties that, when combined, optimize the golf ball's performance characteristics including elasticity, compression, and spin control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If intermediate core layers with specific thickness and hardness ranges are added, then spin rate and control are improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespin rateVSAvoidlayer thickness control

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The intermediate core layer is designed with specific local properties including a thickness range of 0.005 to 0.100 inches and surface hardness of 50 to 85 Shore C. These localized quality specifications optimize the spin rate and control characteristics of the golf ball while maintaining manufacturability within defined tolerances.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If multiple intermediate core layers are used to optimize performance, then distance and control capabilities are improved, but the ease of manufacture decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedistance capabilityVSAvoidcore assembly process

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The core is segmented into an inner core layer, one or more intermediate core layers, and an outer core layer, each with optimized material compositions and thicknesses. This segmentation enables systematic optimization of distance and control capabilities while providing a structured approach to manufacturing through sequential layer formation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS9597553B2Multi-layer core golf ball

Publication Date: 2017.03.21 ACUSHNET CO

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, a layer formed from an additional thermoplastic composition, and an outermost layer formed from a thermoset rubber.