Multi-Faceted Golf Ball Dimples Tripping Boundary Layer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current golf balls lack a consistent aerodynamic surface geometry that effectively trips the boundary layer for turbulent flow, leading to inconsistent flight and distance, with existing protrusions not adequately addressing the need for improved aerodynamic symmetry and distance.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of multi-faceted polygons with protrusions strategically located between 5% and 95% from the bottom of hexagonal geometries on the golf ball surface, designed to trip the boundary layer and promote consistent turbulent flow, reducing drag and enhancing distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional circular dimples are used on the golf ball surface, then the manufacturing process is simple and consistent, but the aerodynamic symmetry and boundary layer separation consistency are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The surface of each dimple is segmented into multiple flat facets (e.g., triangular, quadrangular, pentagonal, or hexagonal facets) instead of using a single curved surface. This segmentation creates multiple protrusions at the intersections of adjacent facets, which serve as consistent boundary layer separation points. The segmentation principle transforms a simple curved surface into a complex multi-faceted structure that improves aerodynamic symmetry while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through mold design.
Solution Approach 2:
Each dimple is designed with non-uniform local geometry through multi-faceted polygons, where different regions of the dimple surface have different orientations and angles. This local quality variation creates protrusions at specific locations (intersections of adjacent facets) that act as controlled separation points. The local quality principle allows the dimple to have both smooth overall curvature for aerodynamic flow and localized geometric features for boundary layer control.
2Reliability
If protrusions are added to trip the boundary layer, then turbulent flow and drag reduction are achieved, but the ball diameter may exceed USGA limits
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of adding protrusions that extend outward from the ball surface (which would increase diameter), the invention inverts the approach by creating protrusions through the intersection of adjacent facets within the dimple structure itself. The protrusions are formed by the geometric intersection of facets rather than by adding material outward, thus tripping the boundary layer while maintaining compliance with the 1.680 inch diameter limit.
Solution Approach 2:
The protrusions are nested within the dimple structure rather than extending beyond the overall ball surface. The multi-faceted polygon geometry is nested within the spherical ball surface, with the protrusions formed by the intersection of facets being contained within the dimple cavities. This nesting principle allows boundary layer tripping features to be integrated without increasing the external dimensions of the ball.
3Productivity
If multi-faceted polygons with protrusions are used, then aerodynamic symmetry and distance are enhanced, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mold is designed with segmented cavity structures that form the multi-faceted polygon dimples. Each dimple's multi-faceted geometry is created through segmented mold surfaces that can be manufactured using standard molding techniques. The segmentation of the dimple surface into flat facets corresponds to segmented mold cavities, making the complex geometry manufacturable through conventional injection molding or compression molding processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-faceted polygon dimple design serves multiple functions simultaneously: it creates boundary layer separation points for aerodynamic symmetry, maintains ball diameter within USGA limits, and can be manufactured using standard molding processes. The geometric design integrates aerodynamic performance requirements with manufacturing constraints, making the complex structure universally applicable to standard golf ball production methods.
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 enhances aerodynamic symmetry and distance by ensuring consistent boundary layer separation across all dimples, resulting in improved lift and reduced drag, thereby increasing the golf ball's flight distance while conforming to USGA and R&A standards.
Implementation Method 1
designed to trip the boundary layer and promote consistent turbulent flow
Implementation Method 2
promote consistent turbulent flow, reducing drag and enhancing distance
Data Source
AI summary
A golf ball (20) approaching zero land area is disclosed herein with a plurality of multi-faceted polygons and each of the plurality of multi-faceted polygons has a protrusion extending outward from a surface of the multi-faceted polygon. The golf ball (20) has an innersphere with a plurality of lattice members (40). Each of the plurality of lattice members (40) has an apex and the golf ball (20) of the present invention conforms with the 1.68 inches requirement for USGA-approved golf balls.