U.S. patent application number 13/546027 was filed with the patent office on 2014-01-16 for golf ball having multiple different coating layers.
The applicant listed for this patent is Matthew F. Hogge, Manjari Kuntimaddi, William E. Morgan. Invention is credited to Matthew F. Hogge, Manjari Kuntimaddi, William E. Morgan.
Application Number | 20140018193 13/546027 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49914453 |
Filed Date | 2014-01-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140018193 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Morgan; William E. ; et
al. |
January 16, 2014 |
GOLF BALL HAVING MULTIPLE DIFFERENT COATING LAYERS
Abstract
A golf ball comprising core; a cover disposed about the core;
and a coating system disposed about the cover having at least three
layers: a first coating layer C.sub.1 surrounding the cover; a
second coating layer C.sub.2 surrounding C.sub.1; and a third
coating layer C.sub.3 surrounding C.sub.2; wherein C.sub.1 has a
first color appearance A.sub.1, C.sub.2 has a second color
appearance A.sub.2, and C.sub.3 has a third color appearance
A.sub.3 such that A.sub.1.noteq.A.sub.2.noteq.A.sub.3 and wherein
A.sub.1, A.sub.2, and A.sub.3 each contribute to an overall golf
ball color appearance. A method of making the inventive golf ball
comprises: providing a core and a cover disposed about the core;
and providing a coating system about the cover comprising C.sub.n
coating layers wherein n.gtoreq.3, and wherein each of the C.sub.n
coating layers have a different color appearance contributing to
the overall golf ball color appearance.
Inventors: |
Morgan; William E.;
(Barrington, RI) ; Kuntimaddi; Manjari; (Raynham,
MA) ; Hogge; Matthew F.; (Plymouth, MA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Morgan; William E.
Kuntimaddi; Manjari
Hogge; Matthew F. |
Barrington
Raynham
Plymouth |
RI
MA
MA |
US
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
49914453 |
Appl. No.: |
13/546027 |
Filed: |
July 11, 2012 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
473/378 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 37/0076 20130101;
A63B 37/0022 20130101; A63B 37/0026 20130101; A63B 43/008
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/378 |
International
Class: |
A63B 37/12 20060101
A63B037/12 |
Claims
1. A golf ball comprising: a core and a cover disposed about the
core; an innermost coating layer C.sub.1 surrounding the cover; an
intermediate coating layer C.sub.2 surrounding C.sub.1; and an
outermost coating layer C.sub.3 surrounding C.sub.2; wherein
C.sub.1 has a first color appearance A.sub.1, C.sub.2 has a second
color appearance A.sub.2, and C.sub.3 has a third color appearance
A.sub.3 such that A.sub.1.noteq.A.sub.2.noteq.A.sub.3 and wherein
A.sub.1, A.sub.2, and A.sub.3 each contribute to an overall golf
ball color appearance.
2. The golf ball of claim 1, wherein the cover comprises at least
one of a urethane and a balata composition.
3. The golf ball of claim 1, wherein the cover comprises an
ionomeric resin.
4. The golf ball of claim 1, wherein C.sub.1 is opaque and
comprises a white pigment, C.sub.2 is translucent and comprises a
pearlescent pigment, and C.sub.3 is transparent.
5. The golf ball of claim 4, wherein C.sub.3 is colorless.
6. The golf ball of claim 4, wherein C.sub.3 is transparent
colored.
7. The golf ball of claim 4, wherein the pearlescent pigment is a
gold pearlescent pigment.
8. The golf ball of claim 1, wherein C.sub.1 is opaque and
comprises a white pigment, C.sub.2 is translucent and comprises an
interference effect pigment, and C.sub.3 is transparent.
9. The golf ball of claim 1, wherein C.sub.1 is opaque and
comprises a pigment other than white, C.sub.2 is translucent and
comprises a pearlescent pigment, and C.sub.3 is transparent.
10. The golf ball of claim 9, wherein C.sub.3 is colorless.
11. The golf ball of claim 9, wherein C.sub.3 is transparent
colored.
12. The golf ball of claim 1, wherein C.sub.1 is opaque and
comprises a pigment other than white, C.sub.2 is translucent and
comprises an interference effect pigment, and C.sub.3 is
transparent.
13. The golf ball of claim 1, wherein C.sub.1 is translucent and
comprises a pearlescent pigment P.sub.1, C.sub.2 is translucent and
comprises a pearlescent pigment P.sub.2 wherein P.sub.1 is
different than P.sub.2, and C.sub.3 is transparent.
14. The golf ball of claim 13, wherein C.sub.3 is colorless.
15. The golf ball of claim 13, wherein C.sub.3 is transparent
colored.
16. The golf ball of claim 1, wherein C.sub.1 has a transmittance
T.sub.1, C.sub.2 has a transmittance T.sub.2 and C.sub.3 has a
transmittance T.sub.3 such that
T.sub.1.noteq.T.sub.2.noteq.T.sub.3.
17. The golf ball of claim 1, wherein C.sub.1 has a reflectance
R.sub.1, C.sub.2 has a reflectance R.sub.2, and C.sub.3 has a
reflectance R.sub.3 such that
R.sub.1.noteq.R.sub.2.noteq.R.sub.3.
18. A golf ball comprising: a core and a cover disposed about the
core; a three layer coating disposed about the cover comprising a
innermost coating layer adjacent the cover, an intermediate coating
layer surrounding the innermost coating layer, and an outermost
coating layer surrounding the intermediate coating layer; wherein
each coating layer has a different color appearance that
contributes to an overall golf ball color appearance producing a
color traveling effect.
19. A golf ball comprising a core, a cover disposed about the core,
and C.sub.n coating layers formed about the cover wherein
n.gtoreq.3, and wherein at least three of C.sub.n coating layers
has a different color appearance that contributes to an overall
color appearance.
20. The golf ball of claim 19, wherein n=4 such that: C.sub.1 and
C.sub.2 are both opaque and comprise a white pigment; C.sub.3 is
translucent and comprises an interference effects pigment; and
C.sub.4 is transparent.
21. The golf ball of claim 20, wherein C.sub.4 is colorless.
22. The golf ball of claim 20, wherein C.sub.1, C.sub.2, C.sub.3,
and C.sub.4 have corresponding transmittances C.sub.1T, C.sub.2T,
C.sub.3T, and C.sub.4T such that C.sub.1T is substantially similar
to C.sub.2T and C.sub.2T.noteq.C.sub.3T.noteq.C.sub.4T.
23. The golf ball of claim 20, wherein C.sub.1, C.sub.2, C.sub.3,
and C.sub.4 have corresponding reflectances C.sub.1R, C.sub.2R,
C.sub.3R, and C.sub.4R such that C.sub.1R is substantially similar
to C.sub.2R and C.sub.2R.noteq.C.sub.3R.noteq..sub.4R.
24. A golf ball comprising: a core and a cover disposed about the
core; and three coating layers formed about the cover comprising an
innermost coating layer adjacent the cover, an intermediate coating
layer surrounding the innermost coating layer, and an outermost
coating layer surrounding the intermediate coating layer; wherein
each of the three coating layers has a spectral reflectance and a
spectral transmittance such that at least one of the spectral
reflectance and the spectral transmittance of each of the three
coating layers is different.
25. The golf ball of claim 24, wherein the reflectance of at least
one coating layer is specular and the reflectance of at least one
coating layer is diffuse.
26. The golf ball of claim 24, wherein the transmittance of at
least one coating layer is diffuse and the transmittance of at
least one coating layer is regular.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] Golf balls incorporating color and color effects in multiple
coating layers to improve golf ball durability and adhesion between
coating layers.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Golf is a game of confidence. So much so, that a golfer's
confidence level during a given round is often outcome
determinative. In this regard, an aesthetically pleasing and
superiorly constructed golf ball is a great confidence builder. For
this reason, golfers typically carefully settle on an ultimate golf
ball of choice by visually comparing each golf ball possessing
their particular desired playing characteristics.
[0003] Golf ball coating layers not only add aesthetic appeal but
also provide overall golf ball protection, an attribute related to
quality. Initially, two types of coating systems developed: colored
(opaque) and clear. Opaque white coatings were first applied to
golf balls since most golfers traditionally enjoyed a white colored
golf ball. An outermost (clear) coating layer was also applied over
surface indicia such as logos or other designs to protect these
markings and the overall golf ball surface. Both types of coatings
have been applied in single or multiple applications, i.e.
one-coat, two-coat, etc.
[0004] In the 1980s, following the introduction of ionomer cover
materials, golf ball manufacturers began to incorporate the
preferred white color (as well as other colors) directly into the
cover, theoretically eliminating the need for a white or colored
coating. However, incorporating the preferred white color directly
into the cover met substantial disadvantages and drawbacks. For
example, some of the most preferred cover materials either do not
match the ideal shade of white color or else transition over time
from an initial desirable shade of white to a less visually
appealing one--often referred to as "yellowing". Balata and
aromatic urethane compositions are two such golf ball cover
materials generally requiring an opaque white coating system in
order to achieve and/or maintain the preferred/optimum white color
shade.
[0005] Thus, coating a golf ball outermost surface has remained a
desirable option, and manufacturers continue to look to improve
coating systems in order to produce the most aesthetically pleasing
and durable golf ball. While prior golf ball coating systems have
included as many as three coating layers, two of the three coating
layers heretofore have been substantially similar. For example, one
common conventional coating system consists of a three-coat process
wherein the first two applications are white and the final third
coating is a protective clear coating.
[0006] In this regard, golf ball manufacturers applied the white
coating in two applications for two specific reasons. Firstly, two
applications better reduces or eliminates imperfections (defects)
occurring the application process. In particular, as balls sit upon
spindles when sprayed and are subsequently transferred from the
spindles to trays for drying, the spindle, transfer picks and trays
can all leave small marks/nicks on the golf ball surface which a
second application of the white coating can mask or cover.
[0007] Secondly, the most preferred coatings are thin and uniform
because heavy applications are more prone to surface defects and
more substantially affect the flight of the ball. Thus, applying
two lighter white coats rather than one heavy coat assures more
uniform coverage at a lower overall application rate. In general, a
coating must be thick enough to possess excellent "hiding power"
yet be thin enough to preserve golf ball performance
characteristics and not compromise a golf ball's strength
(durability or abrasion resistance).
[0008] Further, fairly recently, golf ball manufacturers have begun
incorporating interference effect pigmentation in coatings to
improve and enhance overall golf ball appearance. One such golf
ball uses a two-coat system comprising a white paint formed about
the golf ball outermost surface and a top coat incorporating an
effects pigment providing optical interference. However, this
two-layer coating golf ball presented durability issues when
particles made the golf ball surface vulnerable to breaks in the
surface when a club struck the golf ball. Yet, it is not practical
to place the interference effects coating layer beneath the opaque
coating layer for the obvious reason that an overlying opaque
coating layer would totally block any visibility of the
interference effects layer beneath it.
[0009] Another prior golf ball is a three layer coating system
incorporating one coating layer having interference effect
pigmentation underneath two clear/transparent coating layers. In
this construction, the underlying cover color is visible through
the coating layers, producing a deficient and undesirable overall
golf ball color appearance where the underlying cover is white,
which yellows over time due to UV degradation.
[0010] Accordingly, there remains a need for golf balls
incorporating coating systems having at least three coating layers
each which contribute to an overall golf ball color appearance
imparting/producing interference effects or a pearl luster without
compromising golf ball durability and adhesion as between coating
layers. The current invention addresses and solves this need.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] A golf ball of the present invention comprises an uncoated
"substrate golf ball" and a coating system including at least three
coating layers disposed about the substrate golf ball. The
substrate golf ball may have any construction known in the art,
including an outermost surface or cover layer about which the
coating system is formed. The outermost surface or cover layer may
comprise dimples or other indentations and/or protrusions.
[0012] A golf ball of the invention possesses a unique strong,
vivid and/or vibrant overall golf ball color appearance. In one
embodiment, the golf ball comprises a core, a cover disposed about
the core, an innermost coating layer C.sub.1 surrounding the cover,
an intermediate coating layer C.sub.2 surrounding C.sub.1, and an
outermost coating layer C.sub.3 surrounding C.sub.2, wherein
C.sub.1 has a first color appearance A.sub.1, C.sub.2 has a second
color appearance A.sub.2, and C.sub.3 has a third color appearance
A.sub.3 wherein A.sub.1.noteq.A.sub.2.noteq.A.sub.3, and wherein
A.sub.1, A.sub.2, and A.sub.3 contribute to an overall golf ball
color appearance.
[0013] Non-limiting examples of the at least three different
coating layers of a golf ball of the invention are as follows. In
one embodiment of a golf ball of the invention, C.sub.1 is an
opaque coating, C.sub.2 is a translucent coating having effect
pigmentation such as a pearlescent pigment having sufficient hiding
power to mask manufacturing artifacts such as spindle, pick and
tray marks and yet provide or impart a special optical effect; and
C.sub.3 is a transparent coating. In this embodiment, C.sub.1 may
be a solid color, including a white pigment or a pigment other than
white. The color of C.sub.1 may be identical to the color of the
substrate (the golf ball outermost surface), may be identical in
hue to that of the substrate but vary in chroma or saturation, or
may instead have a different hue than that of the substrate.
Meanwhile, since C.sub.2 is translucent, C.sub.1 at least partially
contributes to the overall golf ball appearance. And C.sub.3 may be
either transparent colorless or transparent and impart color
(transparent colored).
[0014] In a different embodiment, C.sub.1 is translucent, C.sub.2
is also translucent, but differs from C.sub.1 in a respect such as
in hue or dominant hue, saturation, chroma, reflectance,
transmittance and/or thickness, and C.sub.3 is transparent and may
alternatively be transparent and impart color. For example, in one
embodiment, C.sub.1 is translucent and comprises a red pearlescent
pigment, C.sub.2 is translucent and comprises a gold pearlescent
pigment, and C.sub.3 is transparent. In another embodiment, C.sub.1
is translucent and comprises a gold pearlescent pigment, C.sub.2 is
translucent and comprises a green pearlescent pigment, and C.sub.3
is transparent. In yet another non-limiting embodiment, C.sub.1 is
translucent and comprises a red pearlescent pigment, C.sub.2 is
translucent and comprises a gold pearlescent pigment, and C.sub.3
comprises a transparent orange color.
[0015] An inventive golf ball may further comprise a marking M
formed on a portion of the golf ball surface area over C.sub.2, and
surrounded by C3. Additional non-limiting examples of coating layer
arrangements are included in TABLE I and TABLE III herein
below.
[0016] A golf ball of the invention is not limited to three coating
layers and may comprise C.sub.n coating layers disposed about the
outermost golf ball surface wherein n.gtoreq.3, and wherein each of
C.sub.n coating layers has a different color appearance that
contributes to an overall color appearance. For example, in one
embodiment, n=4 such that: C.sub.1 is opaque and comprises a white
pigment; C.sub.2 is translucent and comprises a gold pearl
interference effects pigment; C.sub.3 is translucent and comprises
a red pearl interference effects pigment; and C.sub.4 is
transparent. In another embodiment, n=4 such that: C.sub.1 is
opaque and comprises a red pigment; C.sub.2 is translucent and
comprises a gold pearl interference effects pigment; C.sub.3 is
translucent and comprises a red pearl interference effects pigment;
and C.sub.4 comprises a transparent yellow color. C.sub.4 may in
another embodiment be identical to one of C.sub.1, C.sub.2, and
C.sub.3.
[0017] In another embodiment, the inventive golf ball comprises
C.sub.n coating layers disposed about the outermost golf ball
surface wherein n.gtoreq.4, wherein at least 3 of the C.sub.n
coating layers has a different color appearance that contributes to
an overall color appearance.
[0018] The C.sub.n coating layers may be different as having
differing degrees of opacity or translucency; or as being different
as being transparent versus transparent and imparting color; or
being different as being opaque versus translucent versus
transparent; or having different hues, chromas, saturations,
thicknesses, reflectances, transmittances as these terms are
recognized and measured in the art. For example, in one embodiment,
C.sub.1 has a reflectance R.sub.1, C.sub.2 has a reflectance
R.sub.2, and C.sub.3 has a reflectance R.sub.3 such that
R.sub.1.noteq.R.sub.2.noteq.R.sub.3. In another embodiment, C.sub.1
has a transmittance T.sub.1, C.sub.2 has a transmittance T.sub.2
and C.sub.3 has a transmittance T.sub.3 such that
T.sub.1.noteq.T.sub.2.noteq.T.sub.3.
[0019] In yet another embodiment n=4 such that: C.sub.1 and C.sub.2
are both opaque and comprise a white pigment; C.sub.3 is
translucent and comprises an interference effects pigment; and
C.sub.4 is transparent. In one embodiment, C.sub.1, C.sub.2,
C.sub.3, and C.sub.4 have corresponding transmittances C.sub.1T,
C.sub.2T, C.sub.3T, and C.sub.4T such that C.sub.1T is
substantially similar to C.sub.2T and
C.sub.2T.noteq.C.sub.3T.noteq.C.sub.4T. In another embodiment,
C.sub.1, C.sub.2, C.sub.3, and C.sub.4 have corresponding
reflectances C.sub.1R, C.sub.2R, C.sub.3R, and C.sub.4R such that
C.sub.1R is substantially similar to C.sub.2R and
C.sub.2R.noteq.C.sub.3R.noteq..sub.4R.
[0020] Further, reflectance may be either specular or diffuse.
Reflectance is specular where, for a given normal to the golf ball
surface, the inclination (angle) of the reflected beam (light
outgoing from the golf ball surface) is either: (1) identical to
the inclination of the incident light (incoming light toward the
golf ball surface); or (2) is scattered about only in the specular
direction. On the other hand, reflectance is diffuse where the
inclination of the reflected light is scatterd in all directions.
See, e.g., Paint and Coating Testing Manual, Part 10, Chapter 40,
"Color and Light" by Fred W. Billmeyer and Harry K. Hammond (MNL
17-EB/June 1995).COPYRGT. 1995 ASTM International; and
http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/refln/u1311d.cfm. Reflectance
may be measured by any method known in the art capable of detecting
and/or measuring a reflectance differential as between the coating
layers including, for example, ASTM E1331-04, "Standard Test Method
for Reflectance Factor and Color by Spectrophotometry Using
hemispherical Geometry".
[0021] Transmittance may be measured by any method known in the art
capable of detecting and/or measuring a transmittance differential
as between the coating layers including, for example, ASTM
E1348-02, "Standard Test Method for Transmittance and Color by
Spectrophotometry Using hemispherical Geometry". Transmittance may
be diffuse or regular, depending on whether or not light scatters
when it passes through the coating material.
[0022] The visual appearance of a coating layer may be changed by
varying the thickness of the coating, especially in a translucent
coating layer, for example. Non-limiting examples of thicknesses of
a coating layer in a golf ball of the invention are as follows. In
one embodiment, a golf ball of the invention may have an overall
(combined) coating layer thickness of from about 0.1.mu. to about
100.mu.. In another embodiment, a golf ball of the invention may
have an overall coating thickness of from about 7.mu. to about
45.mu..
[0023] Additionally, non-limiting examples of individual coating
layer thicknesses are as follows. In one embodiment, at least one
coating layer has a thickness of from about 2.mu. to about 14.mu..
In another embodiment, at least one coating layer has a thickness
of from about 3.mu. to about 17.mu.. In yet another embodiment, at
least one coating layer has a thickness of from about 5.mu. to
about 11.mu.. In still another embodiment, at least one coating
layer has a thickness of from about 7.mu. to about 9.mu.. In an
alternative embodiment, at least one coating layer has a thickness
of from about 6.mu. to about 12.mu.. In a different embodiment, at
least one coating layer has a thickness of from about 8.mu. to
about 12.mu..
[0024] Moreover, in a golf ball of the invention, the relative
thicknesses as between respective coating layers may be set and
contributes to and influences the overall color appearance,
especially in translucent coating layers. In one embodiment,
C.sub.1 has a thickness TH.sub.1, C.sub.2 has a thickness TH.sub.2,
and C.sub.3 has a thickness TH.sub.3, wherein
TH.sub.1.noteq.TH.sub.2.noteq.TH.sub.3. In another embodiment,
TH.sub.1<TH.sub.2<TH.sub.3. In yet another embodiment,
TH.sub.1>TH.sub.2>TH.sub.3. In still another embodiment,
TH.sub.1<TH.sub.2>TH.sub.3. In a different embodiment,
TH.sub.1>TH.sub.2<TH.sub.3.
[0025] Where a translucent coating contains an amount of
interference effect pigment or colorant, the pigment loading level
of either may also be varied to alter the appearance of the coating
and therefore overall golf ball appearance.
[0026] In another embodiment, a golf ball of the invention
comprises a three layer coating comprising an innermost coating
layer adjacent the cover, an intermediate coating layer surrounding
the innermost coating layer, and an outermost coating layer
surrounding the intermediate coating layer, wherein each of the
three coating layers has a different color appearance that
contributes to an overall golf ball color appearance producing a
color traveling effect. In this embodiment, the three coating
layers are strategically formulated and coordinated with each other
based on how the human eye perceives the spectral composition of
light being transmitted and/or reflected by the golf ball surface.
Each coating layer contributes differently to the color travelling
effect. In one embodiment, the innermost coating layer contributes
X % to the color traveling effect, the intermediate coating layer
contributes Y % to the color traveling effect, and the outermost
coating layer contributes Z % to the color traveling effect,
wherein X %.noteq.Y %.noteq.Z %.
[0027] Herein, the term "color traveling effect" as used herein
refers to iridescence or goniochromism created by a coating on the
golf ball surface wherein the golf ball surface appears to change
color as the viewing angle or the angle of illumination changes.
See, e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 7,220,192 of Andre et al., incorporated by
reference herein in its entirety. Non-limiting examples of suitable
interference effect pigments include metal-oxide coated mica based
pigments, metal-oxide coated aluminum oxide platelets and
metal-oxide coated silica platelets involving interference,
reflection and absorption phenomena; calcium aluminum borosilicate
coated with a metal oxide; silicon dioxide platelets coated with
metal oxide; and an iron oxide pigment substrate coated with a
metal oxide.
[0028] In a golf ball of the invention, the substrate (portion of
the golf ball other than the coating system) may comprise any type
or combination of golf ball components known in the art as well as
may comprise any suitable compositions/materials. Non-limiting
examples of golf ball substrates and compositions/materials are
discussed in detail below.
[0029] The invention is also directed to method of making a golf
ball of the invention comprising: providing a core and a cover
disposed about the core; forming a first coating layer C.sub.1
about the cover; forming a second coating layer C.sub.2 about
C.sub.1; and forming a third coating layer C.sub.3 about C.sub.2;
wherein C.sub.1 has a first color appearance A.sub.1, C.sub.2 has a
second color appearance A.sub.2, and C.sub.3 has a third color
appearance A.sub.3 such that A.sub.1.noteq.A.sub.2.noteq.A.sub.3
and wherein A.sub.1, A.sub.2, and A.sub.3 each contribute to an
overall golf ball color appearance. In another embodiment, the
method of making a golf ball comprises: providing a core and a
cover disposed about the core; and providing a coating system about
the cover comprising C.sub.n coating layers wherein n.gtoreq.3 and
wherein each of the C.sub.n coating layers has a different color
appearance that contributes to an overall golf ball color
appearance.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0030] The cores in golf balls of this invention may be solid,
semi-solid, hollow, fluid-filled, or powder-filled. Typically, the
cores are solid and made from rubber compositions containing at
least a base rubber, free-radical initiator agent, cross-linking
co-agent, and fillers. Golf balls having various constructions may
be made in accordance with this invention. For example, golf balls
having three-piece, four-piece, and five-piece constructions with
dual or three-layered cores and cover materials may be made. More
particularly, in one version, a three-piece golf ball comprising a
center and a "dual-cover" is made. In another version, a four-piece
golf ball comprising a dual-core and "dual-cover" is made. The
dual-core includes an inner core (center) and surrounding outer
core layer. The dual-cover includes inner cover and outer cover
layers. In yet another construction, a five-piece golf ball having
a dual-core, intermediate layer, and dual-cover is made. In still
another embodiment, a four piece golf ball comprises a core and a
three layer cover.
[0031] As used herein, the term, "intermediate layer" means a layer
of the golf ball disposed between the core (center or outer core
layer) and cover. The intermediate layer may be considered an outer
core layer, or inner cover layer, or any other layer disposed
between the inner core and outer cover of the ball. The diameter
and thickness of the different layers along with properties such as
hardness and compression may vary depending upon the construction
and desired playing performance properties of the golf ball and as
specified herein.
[0032] The inner core of the golf ball may comprise a polybutadiene
rubber material. In one embodiment, the ball contains a single core
formed of the polybutadiene rubber composition. In a second
embodiment, the ball contains a dual-core comprising an inner core
(center) and surrounding outer core layer. In yet another version,
the golf ball contains a multi-layered core comprising an inner
core, intermediate core layer, and outer core layer.
[0033] In general, polybutadiene is a homopolymer of 1,3-butadiene.
Any suitable catalyst may be used to synthesize the polybutadiene
rubber depending upon the desired properties. Normally, a
transition metal complex (for example nickel, or cobalt), a rare
earth metal such as neodymium or an alkyl metal such as
alkyllithium is used as a catalyst. Other catalysts include, but
are not limited to, aluminum, boron, lithium, titanium, and
combinations thereof. The catalysts produce polybutadiene rubbers
having different chemical structures. In a cis-bond configuration,
the main internal polymer chain of the polybutadiene appears on the
same side of the carbon-carbon double bond contained in the
polybutadiene. In a trans-bond configuration, the main internal
polymer chain is on opposite sides of the internal carbon-carbon
double bond in the polybutadiene. The polybutadiene rubber can have
various combinations of cis- and trans-bond structures. A preferred
polybutadiene rubber has a 1,4 cis-bond content of at least 40%,
preferably greater than 80%, and more preferably greater than 90%.
In general, highly crosslinked polybutadiene rubbers having a high
1,4 cis-bond content have high tensile strength. The polybutadiene
rubber may have a relatively high or low Mooney viscosity.
[0034] Examples of commercially available polybutadiene base
rubbers that can be used in accordance with this invention,
include, but are not limited to, BR 01 and BR 1220, available from
BST Elastomers of Bangkok, Thailand; SE BR 1220LA and SE BR1203,
available from DOW Chemical Co of Midland, Mich.; BUDENE 1207,
1207s, 1208, and 1280 available from Goodyear, Inc of Akron, Ohio;
BR 01, 51 and 730, available from Japan Synthetic Rubber (JSR) of
Tokyo, Japan; BUNA CB 21, CB 22, CB 23, CB 24, CB 25, CB 29 MES, CB
60, CB Nd 60, CB 55 NF, CB 70 B, CB KA 8967, and CB 1221, available
from Lanxess Corp. of Pittsburgh. Pa.; BR1208, available from LG
Chemical of Seoul, South Korea; UBEPOL BR130B, BR150, BR150B,
BR150L, BR230, BR360L, BR710, and VCR617, available from UBE
Industries, Ltd. of Tokyo, Japan; EUROPRENE NEOCIS BR 60, INTENE 60
AF and P30AF, and EUROPRENE BR HV80, available from Polimeri Europa
of Rome, Italy; AFDENE 50 and NEODENE BR40, BR45, BR50 and BR60,
available from Karbochem (PTY) Ltd. of Bruma, South Africa; KBR 01,
NdBr 40, NdBR-45, NdBr 60, KBR 710S, KBR 710H, and KBR 750,
available from Kumho Petrochemical Co., Ltd. Of Seoul, South Korea;
DIENE 55NF, 70AC, and 320 AC, available from Firestone Polymers of
Akron, Ohio; and PBR-Nd Group II and Group III, available from
Nizhnekamskneftekhim, Inc. of Nizhnekamsk, Tartarstan Republic.
[0035] Other suitable polybutadiene base rubbers include BUNA.RTM.
CB22, BUNA.RTM. CB23 and BUNA.RTM. CB24, BUNA 1203G1, 1220, 1221,
and BUNA CBNd-40, commercially available from LANXESS Corporation;
BSTE BR-1220 available from BST Elastomers Co. LTD; UBEPOL.RTM.
360L and UBEPOL.RTM. 150L and UBEPOL-BR rubbers, commercially
available from UBE Industries, Ltd. of Tokyo, Japan; Budene 1207,
1208 and 1280, commercially available from Goodyear of Akron, Ohio;
SE BR-1220, commercially available from Dow Chemical Company;
Europrene.RTM. NEOCIS.RTM. BR 40 and BR 60, commercially available
from Polimeri Europa; and BR 01, BR 730, BR 735, BR 11, and BR 51,
commercially available from Japan Synthetic Rubber Co., Ltd; and
NEODENE 40, 45, and 60, commercially available from Karbochem.
[0036] Still other suitable base rubbers may include polyisoprene
rubber, natural rubber, ethylene-propylene rubber,
ethylene-propylene diene rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, and
combinations of two or more thereof. Another preferred base rubber
is polybutadiene optionally mixed with one or more elastomers such
as polyisoprene rubber, natural rubber, ethylene propylene rubber,
ethylene propylene diene rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber,
polystyrene elastomers, polyethylene elastomers, polyurethane
elastomers, polyurea elastomers, acrylate rubbers, polyocteriamers,
metallocene-catalyzed elastomers, and plastomers. As discussed
further below, highly neutralized acid copolymers (HNPs), as known
in the art, also can be used to form the core layer as part of the
blend. Such compositions will provide increased flexural modulus
and toughness thereby improving the golf ball's performance
including its impact durability.
[0037] The base rubbers may be blended with each other and
typically may be mixed with at least one reactive cross-linking
co-agent to enhance the hardness of the rubber composition.
Suitable co-agents include, but are not limited to, unsaturated
carboxylic acids and unsaturated vinyl compounds. A preferred
unsaturated vinyl compound is trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate.
The rubber composition is cured using a conventional curing
process. Suitable curing processes include, for example, peroxide
curing, sulfur curing, high-energy radiation, and combinations
thereof. In one embodiment, the base rubber is peroxide cured.
Organic peroxides suitable as free-radical initiators include, for
example, dicumyl peroxide; n-butyl-4,4-di(t-butylperoxy)valerate;
1,1-di(t-butylperoxy)3,3,5-trimethylcyclohexane;
2,5-dimethyl-2,5-di(t-butylperoxy)hexane; di-t-butyl peroxide;
di-t-amyl peroxide; t-butyl peroxide; t-butyl cumyl peroxide;
2,5-dimethyl-2,5-di(t-butylperoxy)hexyne-3;
di(2-t-butyl-peroxyisopropyl)benzene; dilauroyl peroxide; dibenzoyl
peroxide; t-butyl hydroperoxide; and combinations thereof.
Cross-linking co-agents are used to cross-link at least a portion
of the polymer chains in the composition. Suitable cross-linking
co-agents include, for example, metal salts of unsaturated
carboxylic acids having from 3 to 8 carbon atoms; unsaturated vinyl
compounds and polyfunctional monomers (for example,
trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate); phenylene bismaleimide; and
combinations thereof. In a particular embodiment, the cross-linking
co-agent is selected from zinc salts of acrylates, diacrylates,
methacrylates, and dimethacrylates. In another particular
embodiment, the cross-linking co-agent is zinc diacrylate ("ZDA").
Commercially available zinc diacrylates include those selected from
Cray Valley or Resource Innovations Inc. Other elastomers known in
the art may also be added, such as other polybutadiene rubbers,
natural rubber, styrene butadiene rubber, and/or isoprene rubber in
order to further modify the properties of the core. When a mixture
of elastomers is used, the amounts of other constituents in the
core composition are typically based on 100 parts by weight of the
total elastomer mixture.
[0038] Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) may also be used to modify
the properties of the core layers, or the uncured core layer stock
by blending with the uncured rubber. These TPEs include natural or
synthetic balata, or high trans-polyisoprene, high
trans-polybutadiene, or any styrenic block copolymer, such as
styrene ethylene butadiene styrene, styrene-isoprene-styrene, etc.,
a metallocene or other single-site catalyzed polyolefin such as
ethylene-octene, or ethylene-butene, or thermoplastic polyurethanes
(TPU), including copolymers, e.g. with silicone. Other suitable
TPEs for blending with the thermoset rubbers of the present
invention include PEBAX.RTM., which is believed to comprise
polyether amide copolymers, HYTREL.RTM., which is believed to
comprise polyether ester copolymers, thermoplastic urethane, and
KRATON.RTM., which is believed to comprise styrenic block copolymer
elastomers. Any of the TPEs or TPUs above may also contain
functionality suitable for grafting, including maleic acid or
maleic anhydride. Any of the Thermoplastic Vulcanized Rubbers (TPV)
such as Santoprene.RTM. or Vibram.RTM. or ETPV.RTM. can be used
along with a present invention. In one embodiment, the TPV has a
thermoplastic as a continuous phase and a cross-linked rubber
particulate as a dispersed (or discontinuous) phase. In another
embodiment, the TPV has a cross-linked phase as a continuous phase
and a thermoplastic as a dispersed (or discontinuous) phase to
provide reduced loss in elasticity in order to improve the
resiliency of the golf ball.
[0039] The rubber compositions also may contain "soft and fast"
agents such as a halogenated organosulfur, organic disulfide, or
inorganic disulfide compounds. Particularly suitable halogenated
organosulfur compounds include, but are not limited to, halogenated
thiophenols. Preferred organic sulfur compounds include, but not
limited to, pentachlorothiophenol ("PCTP") and a salt of PCTP. A
preferred salt of PCTP is ZnPCTP. A suitable PCTP is sold by the
Struktol Company (Stow, Ohio) under the tradename, A95. ZnPCTP is
commercially available from EchinaChem (San Francisco, Calif.).
These compounds also may function as cis-to-trans catalysts to
convert some cis bonds in the polybutadiene to trans bonds.
Antioxidants also may be added to the rubber compositions to
prevent the breakdown of the elastomers. Other ingredients such as
accelerators (for example, tetramethylthiuram sulfides), processing
aids, dyes and pigments, wetting agents, surfactants, plasticizers,
as well as other additives known in the art may be added to the
rubber composition.
[0040] The core may be formed by mixing and forming the rubber
composition using conventional techniques. These cores can be used
to make finished golf balls by surrounding the core with outer core
layer(s), intermediate layer(s), and/or cover materials as
discussed further below. In another embodiment, the cores can be
formed using highly neutralized polymer (HNP) compositions as
disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,756,436, 7,030,192, 7,402,629, and
7,517,289. The cores from the highly neutralized polymer
compositions can be further cross-linked using any free-radical
initiation sources including radiation sources such as gamma or
electron beam as well as chemical sources such as peroxides and the
like.
[0041] Golf balls made in accordance with this invention can be of
any size, although the USGA requires that golf balls used in
competition have a diameter of at least 1.68 inches and a weight of
no greater than 1.62 ounces. For play outside of USGA competition,
the golf balls can have smaller diameters and be heavier.
[0042] A wide variety of thermoplastic or thermosetting materials
can be employed in forming the center, core layer(s), intermediate
layer(s), and/or cover layer(s). These materials include for
example, grafted polyolefins such as Fusabond.RTM.525D or
olefin-based copolymer ionomer resins for example, Surlyn.RTM.
ionomer resins and DuPont.RTM. HPF 1000 and HPF 2000, as well as
blends of Surlyn.RTM.7940/Surlyn.RTM.8940 or
Surlyn.RTM.8150/Surlyn.RTM.9150, all commercially available from
E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company; Iotek.RTM. ionomers,
commercially available from ExxonMobil Chemical Company;
Amplify.RTM. IO ionomers of ethylene acrylic acid copolymers,
commercially available from The Dow Chemical Company; and
Clarix.RTM. ionomer resins, commercially available from A. Schulman
Inc.; polyurethanes; polyureas; copolymers and hybrids of
polyurethane and polyurea; polyethylene, including, for example,
low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, and high
density polyethylene; polypropylene; rubber-toughened olefin
polymers; acid polymers, for example, poly(meth)acrylic acid, which
do not become part of an ionomeric copolymer; plastomers;
flexomers; styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymers;
styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene block copolymers; dynamically
vulcanized elastomers; copolymers of ethylene and vinyl acetates;
copolymers of ethylene and methyl acrylates; polyvinyl chloride
resins; polyamides, poly(amide-ester) elastomers, and graft
copolymers of ionomer and polyamide including, for example,
Pebax.RTM. thermoplastic polyether block amides, commercially
available from Arkema Inc; cross-linked trans-polyisoprene and
blends thereof; polyester-based thermoplastic elastomers, such as
Hytrel.RTM., commercially available from E.I. du Pont de Nemours
and Company; polyurethane-based thermoplastic elastomers, such as
Elastollan.RTM., commercially available from BASF; synthetic or
natural vulcanized rubber; and combinations thereof.
[0043] In fact, any of the core, intermediate layer and/or cover
layers may include the following materials:
[0044] (1) Polyurethanes, such as those prepared from polyols and
diisocyanates or polyisocyanates and/or their prepolymers;
[0045] (2) Polyureas; and
[0046] (3) Polyurethane-urea hybrids, blends or copolymers
comprising urethane and urea segments.
[0047] Suitable polyurethane compositions comprise a reaction
product of at least one polyisocyanate and at least one curing
agent. The curing agent can include, for example, one or more
polyamines, one or more polyols, or a combination thereof. The
polyisocyanate can be combined with one or more polyols to form a
prepolymer, which is then combined with the at least one curing
agent. Thus, the polyols described herein are suitable for use in
one or both components of the polyurethane material, i.e., as part
of a prepolymer and in the curing agent. Suitable polyurethanes are
described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0176523,
which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0048] Any polyisocyanate available to one of ordinary skill in the
art is suitable for use according to the invention. Exemplary
polyisocyanates include, but are not limited to,
4,4'-diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI); polymeric MDI;
carbodiimide-modified liquid MDI; 4,4'-dicyclohexylmethane
diisocyanate (H.sub.12MDI); p-phenylene diisocyanate (PPDI);
m-phenylene diisocyanate (MPDI); toluene diisocyanate (TDI);
3,3'-dimethyl-4,4'-biphenylene diisocyanate;
isophoronediisocyanate; 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI);
naphthalene diisocyanate; xylene diisocyanate; p-tetramethylxylene
diisocyanate; m-tetramethylxylene diisocyanate; ethylene
diisocyanate; propylene-1,2-diisocyanate;
tetramethylene-1,4-diisocyanate; cyclohexyl diisocyanate;
dodecane-1,12-diisocyanate; cyclobutane-1,3-diisocyanate;
cyclohexane-1,3-diisocyanate; cyclohexane-1,4-diisocyanate;
1-isocyanato-3,3,5-trimethyl-5-isocyanatomethylcyclohexane; methyl
cyclohexylene diisocyanate; triisocyanate of HDI; triisocyanate of
2,4,4-trimethyl-1,6-hexane diisocyanate; tetracene diisocyanate;
napthalene diisocyanate; anthracene diisocyanate; isocyanurate of
toluene diisocyanate; uretdione of hexamethylene diisocyanate,
homopolymers, dimers, trimers and mixtures thereof. Polyisocyanates
are known to those of ordinary skill in the art as having more than
one isocyanate group, e.g., di-isocyanate, tri-isocyanate, and
tetra-isocyanate. Preferably, the polyisocyanate includes MDI,
PPDI, TDI, or a mixture thereof, and more preferably, the
polyisocyanate includes MDI. It should be understood that, as used
herein, the term MDI includes 4,4'-diphenylmethane diisocyanate,
polymeric MDI, carbodiimide-modified liquid MDI, and mixtures
thereof. Additionally, the prepolymers synthesized from these
diisocyanates may be "low free monomer," understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to have lower levels of "free" isocyanate
monomers, typically less than about 0.1% free isocyanate. Examples
of "low free monomer" prepolymers include, but are not limited to
Low Free Monomer MDI prepolymers, Low Free Monomer TDI prepolymers,
and Low Free Monomer PPDI prepolymers.
[0049] Any polyol available to one of ordinary skill in the art is
suitable for use according to the invention. Exemplary polyols
include, but are not limited to, polyether polyols,
hydroxy-terminated polybutadiene (including partially/fully
hydrogenated derivatives), polyester polyols, polycaprolactone
polyols, and polycarbonate polyols. In one preferred embodiment,
the polyol includes polyether polyol. Examples include, but are not
limited to, polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG), polyethylene
propylene glycol, polyoxypropylene glycol, and mixtures thereof.
The hydrocarbon chain can have saturated or unsaturated bonds and
substituted or unsubstituted aromatic and cyclic groups.
Preferably, the polyol of the present invention includes PTMEG.
[0050] In another embodiment, polyester polyols are included in the
polyurethane material. Suitable polyester polyols include, but are
not limited to, polyethylene adipate glycol; polybutylene adipate
glycol; polyethylene propylene adipate glycol;
o-phthalate-1,6-hexanediol; poly(hexamethylene adipate)glycol; and
mixtures thereof. The hydrocarbon chain can have saturated or
unsaturated bonds, or substituted or unsubstituted aromatic and
cyclic groups.
[0051] In another embodiment, polycaprolactone polyols are included
in the materials of the invention. Suitable polycaprolactone
polyols include, but are not limited to, 1,6-hexanediol-initiated
polycaprolactone, diethylene glycol initiated polycaprolactone,
trimethylol propane initiated polycaprolactone, neopentyl glycol
initiated polycaprolactone, 1,4-butanediol-initiated
polycaprolactone, and mixtures thereof. The hydrocarbon chain can
have saturated or unsaturated bonds, or substituted or
unsubstituted aromatic and cyclic groups.
[0052] In yet another embodiment, polycarbonate polyols are
included in the polyurethane material of the invention. Suitable
polycarbonates include, but are not limited to, polyphthalate
carbonate and poly(hexamethylene carbonate)glycol. The hydrocarbon
chain can have saturated or unsaturated bonds, or substituted or
unsubstituted aromatic and cyclic groups. In one embodiment, the
molecular weight of the polyol is from about 200 to about 4000.
[0053] Polyamine curatives are also suitable for use in the
polyurethane composition of the invention and have been found to
improve cut, shear, and impact resistance of the resultant balls.
Preferred polyamine curatives include, but are not limited to,
3,5-dimethylthio-2,4-toluenediamine and isomers thereof;
3,5-diethyltoluene-2,4-diamine and isomers thereof, such as
3,5-diethyltoluene-2,6-diamine;
4,4'-bis-(sec-butylamino)-diphenylmethane;
1,4-bis-(sec-butylamino)-benzene,
4,4'-methylene-bis-(2-chloroaniline);
4,4'-methylene-bis-(3-chloro-2,6-diethylaniline);
polytetramethyleneoxide-di-p-aminobenzoate; N,N'-dialkyldiamino
diphenyl methane; p,p'-methylene dianiline; m-phenylenediamine;
4,4'-methylene-bis-(2-chloroaniline);
4,4'-methylene-bis-(2,6-diethylaniline);
4,4'-methylene-bis-(2,3-dichloroaniline);
4,4'-diamino-3,3'-diethyl-5,5'-dimethyl diphenylmethane;
2,2',3,3'-tetrachloro diamino diphenylmethane; trimethylene glycol
di-p-aminobenzoate; and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the curing
agent of the present invention includes
3,5-dimethylthio-2,4-toluenediamine and isomers thereof, such as
ETHACURE.RTM. 300, commercially available from Albermarle
Corporation of Baton Rouge, La. Suitable polyamine curatives, which
include both primary and secondary amines, preferably have
molecular weights ranging from about 64 to about 2000.
[0054] At least one of a diol, triol, tetraol, or
hydroxy-terminated curatives may be added to the aforementioned
polyurethane composition. Suitable diol, triol, and tetraol groups
include ethylene glycol; diethylene glycol; polyethylene glycol;
propylene glycol; polypropylene glycol; lower molecular weight
polytetramethylene ether glycol; 1,3-bis(2-hydroxyethoxy)benzene;
1,3-bis-[2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)ethoxy]benzene;
1,3-bis-{2-[2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)ethoxy]ethoxy}benzene;
1,4-butanediol; 1,5-pentanediol; 1,6-hexanediol;
resorcinol-di-(.beta.-hydroxyethyl)ether;
hydroquinone-di-(.beta.-hydroxyethyl)ether; and mixtures thereof.
Preferred hydroxy-terminated curatives include
1,3-bis(2-hydroxyethoxy)benzene;
1,3-bis-[2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)ethoxy]benzene;
1,3-bis-{2-[2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)ethoxy]ethoxy}benzene;
1,4-butanediol, and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the
hydroxy-terminated curatives have molecular weights ranging from
about 48 to 2000. It should be understood that molecular weight, as
used herein, is the absolute weight average molecular weight and
would be understood as such by one of ordinary skill in the
art.
[0055] Both the hydroxy-terminated and amine curatives can include
one or more saturated, unsaturated, aromatic, and cyclic groups.
Additionally, the hydroxy-terminated and amine curatives can
include one or more halogen groups. The polyurethane composition
can be formed with a blend or mixture of curing agents. If desired,
however, the polyurethane composition may be formed with a single
curing agent.
[0056] In one embodiment of the present invention, saturated
polyurethanes are used to form one or more of the cover layers.
Additionally, polyurethane can be replaced with or blended with a
polyurea material.
[0057] The polyether amine may be blended with additional polyols
to formulate copolymers that are reacted with excess isocyanate to
form a prepolymer. In one embodiment, less than about 30 percent
polyol by weight of the copolymer is blended with the saturated
polyether amine. In another embodiment, less than about 20 percent
polyol by weight of the copolymer, preferably less than about 15
percent by weight of the copolymer, is blended with the polyether
amine. The polyols listed above with respect to the polyurethane
prepolymer, e.g., polyether polyols, polycaprolactone polyols,
polyester polyols, polycarbonate polyols, hydrocarbon polyols,
other polyols, and mixtures thereof, are also suitable for blending
with the polyether amine. The molecular weight of these polymers
may be from about 200 to about 4000, but also may be from about
1000 to about 3000, and more preferably are from about 1500 to
about 2500.
[0058] The polyurea composition can be formed by crosslinking a
polyurea prepolymer with a single curing agent or a blend of curing
agents. In one embodiment, the amine-terminated curing agent may
have a molecular weight of about 64 or greater. In another
embodiment, the molecular weight of the amine-curing agent is about
2000 or less. As discussed above, certain amine-terminated curing
agents may be modified with a compatible amine-terminated freezing
point depressing agent or mixture of compatible freezing point
depressing agents
[0059] Suitable amine-terminated curing agents include, but are not
limited to, ethylene diamine; hexamethylene diamine;
1-methyl-2,6-cyclohexyl diamine; tetrahydroxypropylene ethylene
diamine; 2,2,4- and 2,4,4-trimethyl-1,6-hexanediamine;
4,4'-bis-(sec-butylamino)-dicyclohexylmethane;
1,4-bis-(sec-butylamino)-cyclohexane;
1,2-bis-(sec-butylamino)-cyclohexane; derivatives of
4,4'-bis-(sec-butylamino)-dicyclohexylmethane;
4,4'-dicyclohexylmethane diamine;
1,4-cyclohexane-bis-(methylamine);
1,3-cyclohexane-bis-(methylamine); diethylene glycol
di-(aminopropyl)ether; 2-methylpentamethylene-diamine;
diaminocyclohexane; diethylene triamine; triethylene tetramine;
tetraethylene pentamine; propylene diamine; 1,3-diaminopropane;
dimethylamino propylamine; diethylamino propylamine; dipropylene
triamine; imido-bis-propylamine; monoethanolamine, diethanolamine;
3,5-diethyltoluene-2,4-diamine; triethanolamine;
monoisopropanolamine, diisopropanolamine; isophoronediamine;
4,4'-methylenebis-(2-chloroaniline);
3,5-dimethylthio-2,4-toluenediamine;
3,5-dimethylthio-2,6-toluenediamine;
3,5-diethylthio-2,4-toluenediamine;
3,5-diethylthio-2,6-toluenediamine;
4,4'-bis-(sec-butylamino)-diphenylmethane and derivatives thereof;
1,4-bis-(sec-butylamino)-benzene; 1,2-bis-(sec-butylamino)-benzene;
N,N'-dialkylamino-diphenylmethane;
N,N,N',N'-tetrakis(2-hydroxypropyl)ethylene diamine;
trimethyleneglycol-di-p-aminobenzoate;
polytetramethyleneoxide-di-p-aminobenzoate;
4,4'-methylenebis-(3-chloro-2,6-diethyleneaniline);
4,4'-methylenebis-(2,6-diethylaniline); meta-phenylenediamine;
paraphenylenediamine; and mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the
amine-terminated curing agent is
4,4'-bis-(sec-butylamino)-dicyclohexylmethane.
[0060] Suitable saturated amine-terminated curing agents include,
but are not limited to, ethylene diamine; hexamethylene diamine;
1-methyl-2,6-cyclohexyl diamine; tetrahydroxypropylene ethylene
diamine; 2,2,4- and 2,4,4-trimethyl-1,6-hexanediamine;
4,4'-bis-(sec-butylamino)-dicyclohexylmethane;
1,4-bis-(sec-butylamino)-cyclohexane;
1,2-bis-(sec-butylamino)-cyclohexane; derivatives of
4,4'-bis-(sec-butylamino)-dicyclohexylmethane;
4,4'-dicyclohexylmethane diamine;
4,4'-methylenebis-(2,6-diethylaminocyclohexane;
1,4-cyclohexane-bis-(methylamine);
1,3-cyclohexane-bis-(methylamine); diethylene glycol
di-(aminopropyl)ether; 2-methylpentamethylene-diamine;
diaminocyclohexane; diethylene triamine; triethylene tetramine;
tetraethylene pentamine; propylene diamine; 1,3-diaminopropane;
dimethylamino propylamine; diethylamino propylamine;
imido-bis-propylamine; monoethanolamine, diethanolamine;
triethanolamine; monoisopropanolamine, diisopropanolamine;
isophoronediamine; triisopropanolamine; and mixtures thereof. In
addition, any of the polyether amines listed above may be used as
curing agents to react with the polyurea prepolymers.
[0061] Suitable UV absorbers/light stabilizers may be incorporated
including but not limited to triazines; benzoxazinones;
benzotriazoles;
poly-(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl)-.alpha.-(3-(3-(2H-benzotriazol-2-yl)-5-(1,1-dim-
ethylethyl)-4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxopropyl)-.omega.-hydroxy or
2-(2H-benzotriazol-2-yl)-4,6-bis-(1,1-dimethylpropyl)-phenol;
dimethyliones; benzimidazoles; cycloaliphatic ketones;
formanilides; cyanoacrylates; benzopyranones; succinate polymer
with 4-hydroxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-1-piperidineethanol;
bis-(1,2,2,6,6-pentamethyl-4-piperidinyl)sebacate;
bis-(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinyl)sebacate; benzophenones;
benzoates; formamidines; cinnamates/propenoates; aromatic
propanediones, and mixtures thereof.
[0062] Alternatively, other suitable polymers include partially or
fully neutralized ionomer, metallocene, or other single-site
catalyzed polymer, polyester, polyamide, non-ionomeric
thermoplastic elastomer, copolyether-esters, copolyether-amides,
polycarbonate, polybutadiene, polyisoprene, polystryrene block
copolymers (such as styrene-butadiene-styrene),
styrene-ethylene-propylene-styrene,
styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene, and the like, and blends
thereof.
[0063] Intermediate layers and/or cover layers may also be formed
from ionomeric polymers or ionomer blends such as Surlyn 7940/8940
or Surlyn 8150/9150 or from highly-neutralized ionomers (HNP).
[0064] In one embodiment, at least one intermediate layer of the
golf ball is formed from an HNP material or a blend of HNP
materials. The acid moieties of the HNP's, typically ethylene-based
ionomers, are preferably neutralized greater than about 70%, more
preferably greater than about 90%, and most preferably at least
about 100% with a cation source. Suitable cations include for
example metal cations, organic amine compounds, ammonium, and
combinations thereof. The HNPs can be also be blended with a second
polymer component, which, if containing an acid group(s) such as
organic acids, or more preferably fatty acids, may be neutralized
in a conventional manner, with a suitable cation source. The second
polymer component, which may be partially or fully neutralized,
preferably comprises ionomeric copolymers and terpolymers, ionomer
precursors, thermoplastics, polyamides, polycarbonates, polyesters,
polyurethanes, polyureas, thermoplastic elastomers, polybutadiene
rubber, balata, metallocene-catalyzed polymers (grafted and
non-grafted), single-site polymers, high-crystalline acid polymers,
cationic ionomers, and the like. HNP polymers typically have a
material hardness of between about 20 and about 80 Shore D, and a
flexural modulus of between about 3,000 psi and about 200,000
psi.
[0065] In one embodiment of the present invention the HNPs are
ionomers and/or their acid precursors that are preferably
neutralized, either fully or partially, with sufficient amount of
metal base to achieve the desired neutralization level. The acid
copolymers are preferably .alpha.-olefin, such as ethylene,
C.sub.3-8 .alpha.,.beta.-ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid,
such as acrylic and methacrylic acid, copolymers. They may
optionally contain a softening monomer, such as alkyl acrylate and
alkyl methacrylate, wherein the alkyl groups have from 1 to 8
carbon atoms.
[0066] The acid copolymers can be described as E/X/Y copolymers
where E is ethylene, X is an .alpha.,.beta.-ethylenically
unsaturated carboxylic acid, and Y is a softening comonomer. In a
preferred embodiment, X is acrylic or methacrylic acid and Y is a
C.sub.1-8 alkyl acrylate or methacrylate ester. X is preferably
present in an amount from about 1 to about 35 weight percent of the
polymer, more preferably from about 5 to about 30 weight percent of
the polymer, and most preferably from about 10 to about 22 weight
percent of the polymer. Y is preferably present in an amount from
about 0 to about 50 weight percent of the polymer, more preferably
from about 5 to about 30 weight percent of the polymer, and most
preferably from about 10 to about 25 weight percent of the
polymer.
[0067] Specific acid-containing ethylene copolymers include, but
are not limited to, ethylene/acrylic acid/n-butyl acrylate,
ethylene/methacrylic acid/n-butyl acrylate, ethylene/methacrylic
acid/iso-butyl acrylate, ethylene/acrylic acid/iso-butyl acrylate,
ethylene/methacrylic acid/n-butyl methacrylate, ethylene/acrylic
acid/methyl methacrylate, ethylene/acrylic acid/methyl acrylate,
ethylene/methacrylic acid/methyl acrylate, ethylene/methacrylic
acid/methyl methacrylate, and ethylene/acrylic acid/n-butyl
methacrylate. Preferred acid-containing ethylene copolymers
include, ethylene/methacrylic acid/n-butyl acrylate,
ethylene/acrylic acid/n-butyl acrylate, ethylene/methacrylic
acid/methyl acrylate, ethylene/acrylic acid/ethyl acrylate,
ethylene/methacrylic acid/ethyl acrylate, and ethylene/acrylic
acid/methyl acrylate copolymers. The most preferred acid-containing
ethylene copolymers are, ethylene/(meth)acrylic acid/n-butyl
acrylate, ethylene/(meth)acrylic acid/ethyl acrylate, and
ethylene/(meth)acrylic acid/methyl acrylate copolymers.
[0068] Ionomers are typically neutralized with a metal cation, such
as Li, Na, Mg, K, Ca, Al or Zn. It has been found that by adding
sufficient organic acid or salt of organic acid, along with a
suitable base, to the acid copolymer or ionomer, the ionomer can be
neutralized, without losing processability, to a level much greater
than for a metal cation alone. Preferably, the acid moieties are
neutralized greater than about 80%, preferably from 90-100%, most
preferably 100% without losing processability. This is accomplished
by melt-blending an ethylene .alpha.,.beta.-ethylenically
unsaturated carboxylic acid copolymer, for example, with an organic
acid or a salt of organic acid, and adding a sufficient amount of a
cation source to increase the level of neutralization of all the
acid moieties (including those in the acid copolymer and in the
organic acid) to greater than 90%, (preferably greater than
100%).
[0069] The organic acids may be aliphatic, mono- or
multi-functional (saturated, unsaturated, or multi-unsaturated)
organic acids. Salts of these organic acids may also be employed.
The salts of organic acids of the present invention include the
salts of barium, lithium, sodium, zinc, bismuth, chromium, cobalt,
copper, potassium, strontium, titanium, tungsten, magnesium,
cesium, iron, nickel, silver, aluminum, tin, or calcium, salts of
fatty acids, particularly stearic, behenic, erucic, oleic, linoelic
or dimerized derivatives thereof. It is preferred that the organic
acids and salts of the present invention be relatively
non-migratory (they do not bloom to the surface of the polymer
under ambient temperatures) and non-volatile (they do not
volatilize at temperatures required for melt-blending).
[0070] The ionomers may also be more conventional ionomers, i.e.,
partially-neutralized with metal cations. The acid moiety in the
acid copolymer is neutralized about 1 to about 90%, preferably at
least about 20 to about 75%, and more preferably at least about 40
to about 70%, to form an ionomer, by a cation such as lithium,
sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, barium, lead, tin, zinc,
aluminum, or a mixture thereof.
[0071] The golf ball may also contain additives, ingredients, and
other materials in amounts that do not detract from the properties
of the final composition. These additive materials include, but are
not limited to, activators such as calcium or magnesium oxide;
fatty acids such as stearic acid and salts thereof; fillers and
reinforcing agents such as organic or inorganic particles, for
example, clays, talc, calcium, magnesium carbonate, silica,
aluminum silicates, zeolites, powdered metals, and organic or
inorganic fibers, plasticizers such as dialkyl esters of
dicarboxylic acids; surfactants; softeners; tackifiers; waxes;
ultraviolet (UV) light absorbers and stabilizers; antioxidants;
optical brighteners; whitening agents such as titanium dioxide and
zinc oxide; dyes and pigments; processing aids; release agents; and
wetting agents. These compositions provide improved melt
processability, and a balance of ball performance.
[0072] Blowing/foaming agents may also be compatible with and be
included in golf balls of the invention, including, for example
those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,708,654. Typical physical
foaming/blowing agents include volatile liquids such as freons
(CFCs), other halogenated hydrocarbons, water, aliphatic
hydrocarbons, gases, and solid blowing agents, i.e., compounds that
liberate gas as a result of desorption of gas. Preferably, the
blowing agent includes an adsorbent. Typical adsorbents include,
for example, activated carbon, calcium carbonate, diatomaceous
earth, and silicates saturated with carbon dioxide.
[0073] Chemical foaming/blowing agents may be incorporated.
Chemical blowing agents may be inorganic, such as ammonium
carbonate and carbonates of alkalai metals, or may be organic, such
as azo and diazo compounds, such as nitrogen-based azo compounds.
Suitable azo compounds include, but are not limited to,
2,2'-azobis(2-cyanobutane), 2,2'-azobis(methylbutyronitrile),
azodicarbonamide, p,p'-oxybis(benzene sulfonyl hydrazide),
p-toluene sulfonyl semicarbazide, p-toluene sulfonyl hydrazide.
Other blowing agents include any of the Celogens.RTM., sold by
Crompton Chemical Corporation, and nitroso compounds,
sulfonylhydrazides, azides of organic acids and their analogs,
triazines, tri- and tetrazole derivatives, sulfonyl semicarbazides,
urea derivatives, guanidine derivatives, and esters such as
alkoxyboroxines. Other possible blowing agents include agents that
liberate gasses as a result of chemical interaction between
components such as mixtures of acids and metals, mixtures of
organic acids and inorganic carbonates, mixtures of nitriles and
ammonium salts, and the hydrolytic decomposition of urea.
[0074] Alternatively, low specific gravity can be achieved by
incorporating low density fillers or agents such as hollow fillers
or microspheres in the polymeric matrix, where the cured
composition has the preferred specific gravity. Moreover, the
polymeric matrix can be foamed to decrease its specific gravity,
microballoons, or other low density fillers as described in U.S.
Pat. No. 6,692,380 ("'380 patent"). The '380 patent is incorporated
by reference in its entirety.
[0075] Blends including non-ionomeric and olefin-based ionomeric
polymers may also be incorporated to form a golf ball layer.
Examples of non-ionomeric polymers include vinyl resins,
polyolefins including those produced using a single-site catalyst
or a metallocene catalyst, polyurethanes, polyureas, polyamides,
polyphenylenes, polycarbonates, polyesters, polyacrylates,
engineering thermoplastics, and the like. Also, in one embodiment
of the invention, processability of the golf ball of the invention
may even be enhanced by incorporating in the core a
metallocene-catalyzed polybutadiene.
[0076] Olefin-based ionomers, such as ethylene-based copolymers,
are often made from an unsaturated carboxylic acid, such as
methacrylic acid, acrylic acid, or maleic acid. Other possible
carboxylic acid groups include, for example, crotonic, maleic,
fumaric, and itaconic acid. "Low acid" and "high acid" olefin-based
ionomers, as well as blends of such ionomers, may be used. In
general, low acid ionomers are considered to be those containing 16
wt. % or less of carboxylic acid, whereas high acid ionomers are
considered to be those containing greater than 16 wt. % of
carboxylic acid. The acidic group in the olefin-based ionic
copolymer is partially or totally neutralized with metal ions such
as zinc, sodium, lithium, magnesium, potassium, calcium, manganese,
nickel, chromium, copper, or a combination thereof. For example,
ionomeric resins having carboxylic acid groups that are neutralized
from about 10 percent to about 100 percent may be used. In one
embodiment, the acid groups are partially neutralized. That is, the
neutralization level is from 10 to 80%, more preferably 20 to 70%,
and most preferably 30 to 50%. In another embodiment, the acid
groups are highly or fully neutralized. Or, the neutralization
level may be from about 80 to 100%, more preferably 90 to 100%, and
most preferably 95 to 100%. The blend may contain about 5 to about
30% by weight of a moisture barrier composition and about 95 to
about 70% by weight of a partially, highly, or fully-neutralized
olefin-based ionomeric copolymer. The above-mentioned blends may
contain one or more suitable compatibilizers such as glycidyl
acrylate or glycidyl methacrylate or maleic anhydride
containing-polymers.
[0077] Any method known in the art for measuring neutralization,
hardness, modulus and melt flow of golf ball centers and layers may
be used.
[0078] A golf ball of the invention may have a compression of from
about 25 to about 110. In another embodiment, the overall golf ball
has a compression of from about 35 to about 100. In yet another
embodiment, the overall golf ball has a compression of from about
45 to about 95. In still another embodiment, the compression may be
from about 55 to about 85, or from about 65 to about 75. Meanwhile,
the compression may also be from about 50 to about 110, or from
about 60 to about 100, or from about 70 to about 90, or even from
about 80 to about 110.
[0079] Several different methods can be used to measure
compression, including Atti compression, Riehle compression,
load/deflection measurements at a variety of fixed loads and
offsets, and effective modulus. See, e.g., Compression by Any Other
Name, Science and Golf IV, Proceedings of the World Scientific
Congress of Golf (Eric Thain ed., Routledge, 2002) ("J. Dalton")
The term compression, as used herein, refers to Atti or PGA
compression and is measured using an Atti compression test device.
A piston compresses a ball against a spring and the piston remains
fixed while deflection of the spring is measured at 1.25 mm (0.05
inches). Where a core has a very low stiffness, the compression
measurement will be zero at 1.25 mm. In order to measure the
compression of a core using an Atti compression tester, the core
must be shimmed to a diameter of 1.680 inches because these testers
are designed to measure objects having that diameter. Atti
compression units can be converted to Riehle (cores), Riehle
(balls), 100 kg deflection, 130-10 kg deflection or effective
modulus using the formulas set forth in J. Dalton. The approximate
relationship that exists between Atti or PGA compression and Riehle
compression can be expressed as: (Atti or PGA
compression)=(160-Riehle Compression). Thus, a Riehle compression
of 100 would be the same as an Atti compression of 60.
[0080] Generally, in golf balls of the invention, the overall golf
ball COR is at least about 0.780. In another embodiment, the
overall golf ball COR is at least about 0.788. In yet another
embodiment, the overall golf ball COR is at least about 0.791. In
still another embodiment, the overall golf ball COR is at least
about 0.794. Also, the overall golf ball COR may be at least about
0.797. The overall golf ball COR may even be at least about 0.800,
or at least about 0.803, or at least about 0.812.
[0081] COR, as used herein, is determined by firing a golf ball or
golf ball subassembly (e.g., a golf ball core) from an air cannon
at two given velocities and calculating the COR at a velocity of
125 ft/s. Ball velocity is calculated as a ball approaches
ballistic light screens which are located between the air cannon
and a steel plate at a fixed distance. As the ball travels toward
the steel plate, each light screen is activated, and the time at
each light screen is measured. This provides an incoming transit
time period inversely proportional to the ball's incoming velocity.
The ball impacts the steel plate and rebounds through the light
screens, which again measure the time period required to transit
between the light screens. This provides an outgoing transit time
period inversely proportional to the ball's outgoing velocity. COR
is then calculated as the ratio of the outgoing transit time period
to the incoming transit time period,
COR=V.sub.out/V.sub.in=T.sub.in/T.sub.out. Preferably, a golf ball
according to the present invention has a COR of at least about
0.78, more preferably, at least about 0.80.
[0082] The spin rate of a golf ball also remains an important golf
ball characteristic. High spin rate allows skilled players more
flexibility in stopping the ball on the green if they are able to
control a high spin ball. On the other hand, recreational players
often prefer a low spin ball since they do not have the ability to
intentionally control the ball, and lower spin balls tend to drift
less off the green.
[0083] Golf ball spin is dependent on variables including, for
example, distribution of the density or specific gravity within a
golf ball. For example, when the center has a higher density or
specific gravity than the outer layers, a lower moment of inertia
results which increases spin rate. Alternatively, when the density
or specific gravity is concentrated in the outer regions of the
golf ball, a higher moment of inertia results with a lower spin
rate. The moment of inertia for a golf ball of the invention may be
from about 0.410 oz-in.sup.2 to about 0.470 oz-in.sup.2. The moment
of inertia for a one piece ball that is 1.62 ounces and 1.68 inches
in diameter may be approximately 0.4572 oz-in.sup.2, which is the
baseline moment of inertia value. Accordingly, by varying the
materials and the density of the regions of each core or cover
layer, different moments of inertia may be achieved for the golf
ball of the present invention. In one embodiment, the resulting
golf ball has a moment of inertia of from about to 0.440 to about
0.455 oz-in.sup.2. In another embodiment, the golf balls of the
present invention have a moment of inertia of from about 0.456
oz-in.sup.2 to about 0.470 oz-in.sup.2. In yet another embodiment,
the golf ball has a moment of inertia of from about 0.450
oz-in.sup.2 to about 0.460 oz-in.sup.2.
[0084] The following results reported in TABLE I demonstrate the
superior and unexpected qualities achieved by a golf ball of the
invention incorporating a coating system having at least three
layers wherein each coating layer is different:
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE I Coating Example Golf Ball Coating
Construction Durability* Adhesion Number IC ** INC *** OC****
Rating Rating Ex. 1 White.sup.1 Translucent Clear.sup.3 1
Excellent, Pearlescent.sup.2 all layers Comp. Ex. 1 White.sup.1
White.sup.1 Pearl 4 Poor, Top Clear.sup.4 Coat to Mid coat *In
TABLE I, golf balls are assigned a durability rating as defined in
TABLE II based on the average of a 12 ball sample, wherein each
golf ball is subjected to 200 hit pendulum testing. ** Herein, "IC"
denotes "innermost coating", the coating layer adjacent golf ball
cover or outermost golf ball surface being coated. *** Herein,
"INC" denotes "intermediate coating", the coating layer surrounding
the IC. ****Herein, "OC" denotes "outer coating", the outermost
coating layer. .sup.1A white coating layer @ 48% mixed solids and
having a mixed viscosity of 20-25 seconds in a #2 Zahn Cup @
77.degree. F. The viscosity was measured using a Zahn Cup, which
comes in 5 sizes, 1-5. Lower numbered cups are used to measure
lower viscosity liquids. A Zahn Cup is a stainless steel cup bored
with a very small hole in the bottom of the cup. The cup was
completely filled with the coating material and the viscosity
measured as the time it takes for the coating material, streaming
through the hole, to break up, called the "efflux time". See, e.g.,
http://www.guardco.com/pages/viscosity/vi/ez.cfm. .sup.2A
translucent pearlescent coating layer @ 50% mixed solids and having
a mixed viscosity of 19-24 seconds in a #2 Zahn Cup @ 77.degree. F.
.sup.3A clear coating layer @ 48% mixed solids and having mixed
viscosity of 19-24 seconds in a #2 Zahn Cup @ 77.degree. F. .sup.4A
pearl clear coating layer @ 48% mixed solids and having a mixed
viscosity of 19-24 seconds in a #2 Zahn Cup @ 77.degree. F.
[0085] Golf ball durability and coating adhesiveness were both
evaluated for golf ball groups "Ex. 1" (inventive golf balls) and
"Comp. Ex. 1" (comparative), each group consisting of 12 test golf
balls. Across both groups, the substrates are identical, each
comprising a solid core and a urethane cover. However, the coating
systems in group Ex. 1 and group Comp. Ex. 1 are different.
Specifically, the coating system in Ex. 1 comprises a white
innermost coating.sup.1 (IC), surrounded by an intermediate coating
layer (INC) comprising a translucent pearlescent pigment.sup.2,
surrounded by a third and outermost coating layer (OC) comprising a
transparent clear coating.sup.3. Meanwhile, the coating system in
Comp. Ex. 1 comprises a white IC (identical to IC of Ex. 1),
surrounded by a second white INC coating layer (identical to IC of
Comp. Ex. 1, which is surrounded by an OC comprising a pearl clear
(transparent) pigment.sup.4.
[0086] The durability of each golf ball was assessed by subjecting
each golf ball to 200 hit pendulum testing and then visually
inspecting and rating it according to the parameters detailed in
TABLE II:
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE II Rating Paint 1 = Excellent No Coating loss
2 = Good Slight wear on dimple edges only 1-3 balls 3 = Fair Slight
wear on dimple edges more than 3 balls 4 = Poor Loss of Coating
between and on dimple edges 5 = Severe Any loss of coating within
dimples
[0087] The results of these durability tests are recorded and
appear in Table I under the heading "Durability Rating" and
comprise an average of the durability ratings for the 12 golf balls
in a particular group. As Table I reveals, a golf ball of the
invention in Ex. 1 has an average durability rating of 1,
significantly better than the average durability rating of 4 for
comparable golf ball Comp. Ex. 1. Accordingly this data
demonstrates that a golf ball of the invention incorporating a
three layer coating system wherein each coating layer is different
possesses significantly better durability than prior golf balls
incorporating a three layer coating system wherein two of the three
coating layers are identical.
[0088] Quality of adhesion between each coating layer was also
assessed for groups Ex. 1 and Comp. Ex. 1 by inspecting the golf
balls in both visible light and when exposed to ultra violet light.
The clear topcoat contained a low level of florescent optical
brightener which is visible only when exposed UV light. The
inspection in visible light revealed loss of adhesion between the
entire coating system and the substrate in the comparative golf
balls. The inspection under UV light revealed loss of adhesion
between the clear topcoat and underlying coating layers in the
comparative golf balls. As recorded in TABLE I, adhesion between
each coating layer on each golf ball in inventive golf balls group
Ex. 1 is excellent as between each and every coating layer, whereas
in comparative golf balls Comp. Ex. 1, adhesion was poor as between
the OC clear coating layer and the INC white coating layer.
Accordingly, this data demonstrates that a golf ball of the
invention incorporating a three layer coating system wherein each
coating layer is different possesses significantly better and
consistent adhesion between coating layers than prior golf balls
incorporating a three layer coating system wherein two of the three
coating layers are identical.
[0089] The following non-limiting prophetic additional examples set
forth in in TABLE III further illustrate the superior durability
and adhesion achieved in a golf ball of the invention:
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE III Durability Rating Coating Example Golf
Ball Coating Visual (Scale Adhesion No. Arrangement Appearance of
1-5) Rating 1 **IC: opaque White Golf 1 Similar white pigment Ball
with Gold to Ex. 1 paint Pearl Luster ***INC: translucent gold
pearl pearlescent paint ****OC: clear colorless paint 2 IC: opaque
white Pale Yellow 1 Similar pigment paint Golf Ball with to Ex. 1
INC: translucent Gold Pearl gold pearl Luster pearlescent paint OC:
clear coating yellow tinted 3 IC: opaque yellow Strong Yellow 1
Similar pigment paint Golf Ball with to Ex. 1 INC: translucent gold
Pearl gold pearl Luster pearlescent paint OC: clear colorless
coating 4 IC: opaque Vibrant yellow 1 Similar fluorescent golf ball
with to Ex. 1 yellow/green gold pearl pigment paint luster INC:
translucent gold pearl pearlescent paint OC: clear coating yellow
tinted 5 IC: opaque white White Golf 1 Similar pigment paint Ball
with Two to Ex. 1 INC: translucent Tone Luster gold pearl
pearlescent paint OC: translucent green pearl pearlescent pigment 6
IC: opaque yellow Yellow Golf 1 Similar pigment paint ball with Two
to Ex. 1 INC: translucent Tone Luster gold pearl pearlescent paint
OC: translucent green pearl pearlescent pigment 7 IC: translucent
Two Tone 1 Similar gold pearl yellow/green to Ex. 1 pearlescent
paint Golf Ball with INC: translucent Two Tone green pearl Luster
pearlescent pigment OC: clear colorless topcoat 8 IC: translucent
Dominantly 1 Similar gold pearl Yellow Golf to Ex. 1 pearlescent
paint Ball with Two INC: translucent Tone Luster green pearl
pearlescent pigment OC: clear yellow tinted topcoat 10 IC: opaque
white Orange Golf 1 Similar pigment paint Ball with Two to Ex. 1
INC.sub.1: translucent Tone gold pearl Yellow/Red pearlescent paint
Luster INC.sub.2: translucent red pearl pearlescent paint.sup.9 OC:
Clear colorless 11 IC: opaque white Predominantly 1 Similar pigment
paint Strong Orange to Ex. 1 INC.sub.1: translucent Golf Ball with
gold pearl Two Tone pearlescent paint Yellow/Red INC.sub.2:
translucent Luster red pearl pearlescent paint.sub.9 OC: Clear
orange tinted topcoat 1C IC: opaque white White Golf 4 Similar
paint Ball with to Comp. OC: clear paint Clear Pearl Ex. 1 with
pigment Luster providing optical interference 2C IC: clear paint
Dull White 4 Similar OC: clear paint Golf Ball with to Comp. with
pigment Clear Pearl Ex. 1 providing optical Luster interference 3C
IC: opaque white Dull White 4 Similar paint Golf Ball with to Comp.
OC: translucent Clear Pearl Ex. 1 colorless paint Luster with
pigment providing optical interference 4C IC: opaque red Red Golf
Ball 4 Similar paint with to Comp. OC: clear paint interference Ex.
1 with pigment effects providing optical interference 5C IC: opaque
yellow Pale yellow 4 Similar paint Golf Ball with to Comp. OC:
translucent interference Ex. 1 paint with pigment effects providing
optical interference 6C IC: opaque white White Golf 4 Similar paint
Ball to Comp. INC: opaque white Ex. 1 paint OC: clear coating 7C
IC: white paint Dull White 4 Similar INC: clear coating Golf Ball
to Comp. OC: clear coating Ex. 1 *In TABLE III, the durability is
measured and defined using the same methodology set forth in TABLE
II.
[0090] One benefit of an embodiment of the golf ball of the
invention such as Ex. 1 of TABLE I is that any flakes or other
particles contained in the pearlescent coating are sealed within
the intermediate (INC) coating by the outermost (OC) coating,
thereby reducing vulnerability made possible by flakes, etc. in the
outer surface.
[0091] Any of the embodiments herein may have any known dimple
number, pattern, width, depth, and/or edge angle and pattern. The
parting line configuration of said pattern may be either a straight
line or a staggered wave parting line (SWPL).
[0092] Unless otherwise expressly specified, all of the numerical
ranges, amounts, values and percentages such as those for amounts
of materials, and others in the specification may be read as if
prefaced by the word "about" even though the term "about" may not
expressly appear with the value, amount or range. Accordingly,
unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set
forth in the specification and attached claims are approximations
that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be
obtained by the present invention. At the very least, and not as an
attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to
the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter should at least
be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits
and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.
[0093] Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters
setting forth the broad scope of the invention are approximations,
the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are
reported as precisely as possible. Any numerical value, however,
inherently contains certain errors necessarily resulting from the
standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.
Furthermore, when numerical ranges of varying scope are set forth
herein, it is contemplated that any combination of these values
inclusive of the recited values may be used.
[0094] While it is apparent that the illustrative embodiments of
the invention disclosed herein fulfill the preferred embodiments of
the present invention, it is appreciated that numerous
modifications and other embodiments may be devised by those skilled
in the art. Examples of such modifications include reasonable
variations of the numerical values and/or materials and/or
components discussed above. Hence, the numerical values stated
above and claimed below specifically include those values and the
values that are approximate to those stated and claimed values.
Therefore, it will be understood that the appended claims are
intended to cover all such modifications and embodiments, which
would come within the spirit and scope of the present
invention.
[0095] The invention described and claimed herein is not to be
limited in scope by the specific embodiments herein disclosed,
since these embodiments are intended as illustrations of several
aspects of the invention. Any equivalent embodiments are intended
to be within the scope of this invention. Indeed, various
modifications of the invention in addition to those shown and
described herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art
from the foregoing description.
* * * * *
References