U.S. patent application number 17/832960 was filed with the patent office on 2022-09-29 for method and system for utilizing radio-opaque fillers in multiple layers of golf balls.
This patent application is currently assigned to Callaway Golf Company. The applicant listed for this patent is Callaway Golf Company. Invention is credited to David M. Melanson.
Application Number | 20220305346 17/832960 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006406209 |
Filed Date | 2022-09-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220305346 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Melanson; David M. |
September 29, 2022 |
Method And System For Utilizing Radio-Opaque Fillers In Multiple
Layers Of Golf Balls
Abstract
A golf ball comprising layers that have from 0.05% to 70% by
weight of a radio-opaque filler, and wherein the concentration of
the radio-opaque filler is measurably different in each layer is
disclosed herein. The radio-opaque filler is preferably a compound
based on barium, bismuth, tungsten, iodine, or reduced iron.
Inventors: |
Melanson; David M.;
(Chicopee, MA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Callaway Golf Company |
Carlsbad |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Callaway Golf Company
Carlsbad
CA
|
Family ID: |
1000006406209 |
Appl. No.: |
17/832960 |
Filed: |
June 6, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
17390706 |
Jul 30, 2021 |
11351423 |
|
|
17832960 |
|
|
|
|
17322584 |
May 17, 2021 |
11185741 |
|
|
17390706 |
|
|
|
|
63030494 |
May 27, 2020 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 37/0051 20130101;
A63B 37/0045 20130101; A63B 37/0076 20130101; G01N 23/04 20130101;
A63B 37/0023 20130101; A63B 37/0039 20130101; A63B 37/0074
20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63B 37/00 20060101
A63B037/00; G01N 23/04 20060101 G01N023/04 |
Claims
1. A method for utilizing an imaging machine to determine a
parameter of a finished golf ball, the method comprising: loading a
golf ball into an imaging machine; and imaging the golf ball to
determine a parameter of the golf ball; wherein the golf ball
comprises a center core, an outer core disposed over the center
core, a mantle layer disposed over the outer core, and a cover
layer having a thickness ranging from 0.025 inch to 0.040 inch and
wherein each of the center core, the outer core, the mantle layer
and the cover layer comprises from 0.05% to 70% by weight of a
radio-opaque filler, and wherein each of the center core, the outer
core, the mantle layer and the cover layer has a concentration of
the radio-opaque filler that is measurably different than a
concentration of the radio-opaque filler of any other layer.
2. The method according to claim 1 wherein the imaging machine is
an X-ray machine and the X-Ray process discerns the various layers
at either constant or variable X-ray power/intensity.
3. The method according to claim 1 wherein the radio-opaque filler
is a compound based on barium, bismuth, tungsten, iodine, or
reduced iron.
4. The method according to claim 1 wherein the parameter is at
least one of a diameter, a thickness, or an eccentricity of one or
all of the layers of the golf ball.
5. A method for utilizing an imaging machine to determine a
parameter of a finished golf ball, the method comprising: loading a
golf ball into an imaging machine; and imaging the golf ball to
determine a parameter of the golf ball; wherein the golf ball
comprises a core, a mantle layer disposed over the core, and a
cover layer having a thickness ranging from 0.025 inch to 0.040
inch and wherein each of the core, the mantle layer and the cover
layer comprises from 0.05% to 70% by weight of a radio-opaque
filler, and wherein each of the core, the mantle layer and the
cover layer has a concentration of the radio-opaque filler that is
measurably different than a concentration of the radio-opaque
filler of any other layer.
6. The method according to claim 5 wherein the imaging machine is
an X-ray machine and the X-Ray process discerns the various layers
at either constant or variable X-ray power/intensity.
7. The method according to claim 5 wherein the radio-opaque filler
is a compound based on barium, bismuth, tungsten, iodine, or
reduced iron.
8. The method according to claim 5 wherein the parameter is at
least one of a diameter, a thickness, or an eccentricity of one or
all of the layers of the golf ball.
Description
CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The Present application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 17/390,706, filed on Jul. 30, 2021, which is a
divisional application of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
17/322,584, filed on May 17, 2021, now U.S. patent Ser. No.
11/185,741, issued on Nov. 30, 2021, which claims priority to U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 63/030,494, filed on May 27,
2020, now expired, each of which is hereby incorporated by
reference in its entirety.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not Applicable
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to radio-opaque fillers for a
golf ball.
Description of the Related Art
[0004] X-ray scanning has been used in the past for golf balls.
[0005] Marshall et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,390,937 for a Method For
Verifying The Concentricity Of A Multiple-Layer Golf Ball discloses
using an X-ray imaging machine to determine the thickness at
various locations of a golf ball to ensure concentricity of the
golf ball
[0006] The prior art fails to disclose imaging of multiple layers
on a ball through any number of X-ray analysis techniques.
[0007] Determination of layer thickness or eccentricity in golf
balls via X-ray has been disclosed in prior art. This involves
doping a layer with a radio-opaque filler to provide contrast with
other layers. However, the prior art refers to only doping a single
layer to make measurements. Furthermore, it refers to very specific
loadings, materials, and X-ray processes. This art is limiting in
that it does not allow for imaging of multiple layers on the ball
through any number of X-ray analysis techniques.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention is the doping of multiple golf ball
layers with the same or different concentrations of the same or
different radio-opaque fillers to provide differential contrast in
an X-ray process.
[0009] Another aspect of the present invention is a golf ball
comprising a center core comprising polybutadiene and a cover layer
disposed over the center core. Each of the center core and the
cover layer comprises from 0.05% to 70% by weight of radio-opaque
filler, and the center core has a concentration of the radio-opaque
filler that is measurably different than a concentration of
radio-opaque filler in the cover layer.
[0010] Yet another aspect of the present invention is a golf ball
comprising a center core comprising polybutadiene, an outer core
disposed over the center core, an inner mantle layer disposed over
the outer core, an outer mantle layer disposed over the inner
mantle layer, and a cover layer disposed over the outer mantle
layer. Each of the center core outer core, the inner mantle layer,
the outer mantle layer and the cover layer comprises from 0.05% to
70% by weight of radio-opaque filler. Each of the center core,
outer core, the inner mantle layer, the outer mantle layer and the
cover layer has a concentration of the radio-opaque filler that is
measurably different than a concentration of radio-opaque filler in
any other layer. The inner mantle layer has a thickness ranging
from 0.03 inch to 0.09 inch. The inner mantle layer is composed of
an ionomer material. The inner mantle layer material has a plaque
Shore D hardness ranging from 34 to 55. The outer mantle layer has
a thickness ranging from 0.025 inch to 0.050 inch. The cover layer
has a thickness ranging from 0.025 inch to 0.040 inch.
[0011] Yet another aspect of the present invention is a center
core, an outer core, and a cover layer disposed over the outer
core. Two of the center core, outer core and the cover layer
comprises from 0.05% to 70% by weight of a radio-opaque filler, and
wherein the two of the center core, outer core and the cover layer
has a concentration of the radio-opaque filler that is measurably
different than a concentration of radio-opaque filler in the other
layer.
[0012] Another aspect of the present invention is a method for
utilizing an imaging machine to determine a parameter of a finished
golf ball. The method includes loading a golf ball into an imaging
machine. The method also includes imaging the golf ball to
determine a parameter of the golf ball. The golf ball comprises a
center core and a cover layer disposed over the center core. Each
of the center core and the cover layer comprises from 0.05% to 70%
by weight of a radio-opaque filler. The center core has a
concentration of the radio-opaque filler that is measurably
different than a concentration of radio-opaque filler in the cover
layer.
[0013] Having briefly described the present invention, the above
and further objects, features and advantages thereof will be
recognized by those skilled in the pertinent art from the following
detailed description of the invention when taken in conjunction
with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a golf ball with a core
component and a cover layer, and each layer comprising a
radio-opaque filler.
[0015] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a golf ball with an
inner core layer, an outer core layer, an inner mantle layer, an
outer mantle layer and a cover layer, and some of the layers
comprise a radio-opaque filler.
[0016] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a golf ball with a core
component, an inner mantle layer, a secondary mantle layer, an
intermediate mantle layer, an outer mantle layer and a cover layer,
and some of the layers comprise a radio-opaque filler.
[0017] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a golf ball with an
inner core layer, an outer core layer and a cover layer, and some
of the layers comprise a radio-opaque filler.
[0018] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a golf ball with an
inner core layer, an outer core layer, an inner mantle layer, an
outer mantle layer, and a cover layer and each layer comprising a
radio-opaque filler.
[0019] FIG. 6 is a flow chart diagram of a method for utilizing an
imaging machine to determine a parameter of a finished golf
ball.
[0020] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an inner core layer
under a 100 kilogram load.
[0021] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a core under a 100
kilogram load.
[0022] FIG. 9 is a graph of thickness based on pixels.
[0023] FIG. 10 is an X-ray image of a golf ball.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0024] The present invention allows for the use of various loadings
or filler types in multiple layers on the ball to enable X-ray
analysis of those layers, preferably in a single pass. Furthermore,
existing prior art may be specific to constructions and materials.
This invention may be applied more broadly.
[0025] A primary purpose of this invention is to load multiple
layers of a golf ball with different concentrations or types of
radio-opaque materials, enabling layer thickness and
concentricity/eccentricity measurements of multiple layers in a
single pass through an X-ray machine. This is performed with any
number of X-ray analysis techniques that provide contrast
differences between layers. It is possible to measure diameters,
thicknesses, and eccentricities of all the layers/components in the
ball.
[0026] The present invention discloses the loading of multiple
layers of a golf ball with various concentrations or types of
radio-opaque fillers. Fillers include, but are not limited to,
compounds based on barium, bismuth, tungsten, iodine, or reduced
iron. The layers comprise the fillers preferably at 0.05% to 70% by
weight. Ideally, each layer is doped with different concentrations
of the same or different radio-opaque fillers. The X-Ray process is
then be able to discern the various layers at either constant or
variable X-ray power/intensity.
[0027] Features include the doping of multiple golf ball layers
with same/different concentrations of same/different radio-opaque
fillers to provide differential contrast in and X-ray process.
[0028] A golf ball 10 comprising a center core 12 made of
polybutadiene and a cover 16 layer disposed over the center core 12
is shown in FIG. 1. Each of the center core 12 and the cover layer
16 comprises from 0.05% to 70% by weight of a radio-opaque filler,
and the center core 12 has a concentration of the radio-opaque
filler that is measurably different than a concentration of
radio-opaque filler in the cover 16 layer. The cover layer is
preferably composed of an ionomer material.
[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the separate layers comprise from
0.05% to 70% by weight of a radio-opaque filler, and the layers
each have a concentration of the radio-opaque filler that is
measurably different than a concentration of radio-opaque filler in
the other layers that contain the radio-opaque filler. The
radio-opaque filler is preferably a compound based on barium,
bismuth, tungsten, iodine, or reduced iron.
[0030] FIG. 2 shows a five layer golf ball 10 further comprising an
outer core 12b disposed over the center core 12a, an inner mantle
14a layer disposed over the outer core 12b, an outer mantle 14b
layer disposed over the inner mantle 14a layer, and a cover 16
layer disposed over the outer mantle 14b layer.
[0031] The inner mantle 14a layer thickness preferably ranges from
0.03 inch to 0.09 inch and is composed of an ionomer material. The
inner mantle 14a layer material preferably has a plaque Shore D
hardness ranging from 34 to 55. The outer mantle 14b layer
thickness preferably ranges from 0.025 inch to 0.050 inch. The
cover 16 layer thickness preferably ranges from 0.025 inch to 0.040
inch.
[0032] Each of the outer core 12b, the inner mantle 14a layer and
the outer mantle 14b layer comprises from 0.05% to 70% by weight of
a radio-opaque filler, and each layer has a concentration of the
radio-opaque filler that is measurably different than a
concentration of radio-opaque filler of any other layer.
[0033] In an alternative embodiment, the golf ball 10 comprises of
an outer core 12b, a center core 12a, an inner mantle 14a layer, an
outer mantle 14b layer, and a cover 16 layer. The inner mantle 14a
layer has a thickness ranging from 0.030 inch to 0.090 inch, and a
plaque Shore D hardness ranging from 30 to 50. The outer mantle 14b
layer has a thickness ranging from 0.025 inch to 0.070 inch, and a
plaque Shore D hardness ranging from 50 to 71. The inner mantle 14a
is thicker than the outer mantle 14b, and the outer mantle 14b is
harder than the inner mantle 14a.
[0034] In this alternative embodiment, each of the outer core 12b,
the inner mantle layer 14a and the outer mantle 14b layer comprises
from 0.05% to 70% by weight of a radio-opaque filler, and each
layer has a concentration of the radio-opaque filler that is
measurably different than a concentration of radio-opaque filler of
any other layer.
[0035] In another alternative embodiment, the inner mantle 14a
layer has a thickness ranging from 0.070 inch to 0.090 inch, and is
composed of an ionomer material. The inner mantle 14a layer
material preferably has a plaque Shore D hardness ranging from 36
to 44. In this embodiment, the outer mantle 14b layer has a
thickness ranging from 0.025 inch to 0.040 inch, and is composed of
an ionomer material. The outer mantle 14b layer material preferably
has a plaque Shore D hardness ranging from 65 to 71. Further, in
this embodiment, the cover 16 layer having a thickness ranging from
0.025 inch to 0.040 inch.
[0036] FIG. 3 shows an alternative embodiment of a golf ball 10.
The golf ball 10 is composed of multiple mantle layers. An inner
mantle 14a is disposed over the center core 12, a first center
mantle 14c layer over the inner mantle 14a layer, a second center
mantle 14d layer over the first center mantle 14c layer, an outer
mantle 14b layer over the second center mantle 14d layer, and a
cover 16 layer over the outer mantle layer 14b.
[0037] In this embodiment, the inner mantle 14a has a thickness
ranging from 0.030 inch to 0.050 inch and is composed of an ionomer
material. The inner mantle layer material has a plaque Shore D
hardness ranging from 30 to 40. The first center mantle 14c layer
has a thickness ranging from 0.030 inch to 0.050 inch and is
composed of a fully neutralized polymer material. The first center
mantle 14c layer material has a plaque Shore D hardness ranging
from 40 to 55. The second center mantle 14d layer has a thickness
ranging from 0.030 inch to 0.050 inch and is also composed of a
fully neutralized polymer material. The second center mantle 14d
layer material has a plaque Shore D hardness ranging from 45 to 55.
The outer mantle 14b layer has a thickness ranging from 0.030 inch
to 0.050 inch and is composed of an ionomer material. The outer
mantle 14b layer material has a plaque Shore D hardness ranging
from 60 to 75. The cover 16 layer has a thickness ranging from
0.025 inch to 0.040 inch.
[0038] Further, in this embodiment, each of the mantle layers
14a-14d comprises from 0.05% to 70% by weight of a radio-opaque
filler, and each layer has a concentration of the radio-opaque
filler that is measurably different than a concentration of
radio-opaque filler of any other layer.
[0039] In another alternative embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the
golf ball 10 comprises of a center core 12a, an outer core 12b, and
a cover 16 layer. Preferably, two of the center core 12a, the outer
core 12b and the cover 16 layer comprises from 0.05% to 70% by
weight of a radio-opaque filler, and the center core 12a has a
concentration of the radio-opaque filler that is measurably
different than a concentration of radio-opaque filler in the cover
16 layer.
[0040] In this embodiment, the radio-opaque filler is preferably a
compound based on barium, bismuth, tungsten, iodine, or reduced
iron. The cover 16 layer is preferably composed of an ionomer
material.
[0041] In yet another embodiment, the golf ball comprises of an
inner mantle layer, an outer mantle layer, and a cover layer. The
inner mantle layer has a thickness ranging from 0.03 inch to 0.09
inch, is composed of an ionomer material, and has a plaque Shore D
hardness ranging from 34 to 55. The outer mantle layer has a
thickness ranging from 0.025 inch to 0.050 inch. The cover layer
has a thickness ranging from 0.025 inch to 0.040 inch.
[0042] In this embodiment, at least two of the center core, the
outer core, the inner mantle layer, the outer mantle layer and the
cover layer comprises from 0.05% to 70% by weight of a radio-opaque
filler, and wherein the at least two of the center core, the outer
core, the inner mantle layer, the outer mantle layer and the cover
layer has a concentration of the radio-opaque filler that is
measurably different than a concentration of radio-opaque filler of
any other layer.
[0043] In yet another embodiment, the golf ball comprises of an
inner mantle layer, an outer mantle layer, and a cover layer. The
inner mantle layer has a thickness ranging from 0.030 inch to 0.090
inch with a plaque Shore D hardness ranging from 30 to 50. The
outer mantle layer has a thickness ranging from 0.025 inch to 0.070
inch with a plaque Shore D hardness ranging from 50 to 71. In this
embodiment, the inner mantle is thicker than the outer mantle, and
the outer mantle is harder than the inner mantle.
[0044] Further, in this embodiment, at least two of the center
core, the outer core, the inner mantle layer, the outer mantle
layer and the cover layer comprises from 0.05% to 70% by weight of
a radio-opaque filler, and wherein the at least two of the center
core, the outer core, the inner mantle layer, the outer mantle
layer and the cover layer has a concentration of the radio-opaque
filler that is measurably different than a concentration of
radio-opaque filler of any other layer.
[0045] FIG. 5 shows an alternative embodiment of a golf ball 10.
The golf ball 10 is composed of multiple layers. An outer core 12b
is disposed over an inner core 12a. An inner mantle 14a is disposed
over the outer core 12b, and an outer mantle layer 14b is disposed
over the inner mantle layer 14a. A cover layer 16 is disposed over
the outer mantle layer 14b. Each of the layers comprises from 0.05%
to 70% by weight of radio-opaque filler, and the concentration of
the radio-opaque filler is measurably different in each layer.
[0046] In one embodiment, the golf ball 10 is a three-piece golf
ball with a cover layer 16, a mantle layer 14 and a core 12. The
cover layer 16 is preferably composed of a thermoplastic
polyurethane material and 0.05% to 70% by weight of radio-opaque
filler. In a preferably embodiment, the mantle layer 14 is composed
of 30 to 50 weight percent of a first ionomer, 30 to 50 weight
percent of a second ionomer, 1 to 20 weight percent of an impact
modifier, 5 to 25 weight percent of BaSO4, and 0.1 to 1.0 weight
percent of a masterbatch. The core 12 is preferably composed of a
first polybutadiene, a second polybutadiene, a zinc diacrylate, a
zinc oxide, a zinc stearate, a peroxide, an organic sulfur, and
0.05% to 70% by weight of radio-opaque filler. The core 12
preferably has a density ranging from 1.1 to 1.2, the mantle 14 has
a density ranging from 0.9 to 1.0, and the cover 16 preferably has
a density ranging from 1.0 to 1.25. The golf ball 10 preferably has
a COR of at least 0.75.
[0047] In another embodiment, the golf ball 10 has a core 12, an
inner mantle layer 14a, an outer mantle layer 14b and a cover layer
16. The core 12 is preferably composed of a first polybutadiene, a
second polybutadiene, a zinc diacrylate, a zinc oxide, a zinc
stearate, a peroxide, an organic sulfur, and 0.05% to 70% by weight
of radio-opaque filler. The inner mantle 14a is preferably composed
of an ionomer blend and 0.5% to 70% by weight of radio-opaque
filler. The outer mantle layer 14b is composed of an ionomer blend
and 0.5% to 70% by weight of radio-opaque filler. The cover layer
16 is preferably composed of a thermoplastic polyurethane material
and 0.5% to 70% by weight of radio-opaque filler. The inner mantle
layer 14a preferably has a Shore D hardness ranging from 41-60, the
outer mantle layer 14b preferably has a Shore D hardness ranging
from 64-71, and the cover layer 16 preferably has a Shore D
hardness ranging from 30-40. The core 12 preferably has a diameter
ranging from 1.35 to 1.5 inches, the inner mantle layer 14a
preferably has a thickness ranging from 0.03 to 0.065 inch, the
outer mantle layer 14b preferably has a thickness ranging from 0.03
to 0.070 inch, and the cover layer 16 preferably has a thickness
ranging from 0.025 to 0.040 inch.
[0048] FIG. 6 is a flow chart diagram of a method 600 for utilizing
an imaging machine to determine a parameter of a finished golf ball
following steps 601-602. A golf ball is loaded into an imaging
machine, and the golf ball is imaged to determine a parameter of
the golf ball. The golf ball preferably comprises a center core and
a cover layer, and each layer comprises from 0.05% to 70% by weight
of a radio-opaque filler, and each layer has a concentration of the
radio-opaque filler that is measurably different than a
concentration of radio-opaque filler in the other layer.
[0049] The imaging machine is preferably an X-ray machine and the
X-Ray process discerns the various layers at either constant or
variable X-ray power/intensity.
[0050] The parameter is preferably at least one of a diameter, a
thickness, or an eccentricity of one or all of the layers of the
golf ball.
[0051] The golf ball of this method, in an alternative embodiment,
comprises an outer core, a center core, an inner mantle layer, an
outer mantle layer, and a cover layer. The inner mantle layer has a
thickness ranging from 0.03 inch to 0.09 inch, is composed of an
ionomer material, and has a plaque Shore D hardness ranging from 34
to 55. The outer mantle layer has a thickness ranging from 0.025
inch to 0.050 inch. The cover layer has a thickness ranging from
0.025 inch to 0.040 inch. Each of the outer core, the inner mantle
layer and the outer mantle layer comprises from 0.05% to 70% by
weight of a radio-opaque filler, and wherein each of the outer
core, the inner mantle layer and the outer mantle layer has a
concentration of the radio-opaque filler that is measurably
different than a concentration of radio-opaque filler of any other
layer.
[0052] The golf ball of this method, in yet another alternative
embodiment further comprises a mantle layer over the center core
wherein the mantle layer further comprises from 0.05% to 70% by
weight of a radio-opaque filler.
[0053] Preferably the inner core 12a has a deflection of at least
0.230 inch under a load of 220 pounds, and the core 12 has a
deflection of at least 0.080 inch under a load of 200 pounds. As
shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, a mass 50 is loaded onto an inner core 12a
and a core 12. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the mass is 100
kilograms, approximately 220 pounds. Under a load of 100 kilograms,
the inner core 12a preferably has a deflection from 0.230 inch to
0.300 inch. Under a load of 100 kilograms, preferably the core 12
has a deflection of 0.08 inch to 0.150 inch. Alternatively, the
load is 200 pounds (approximately 90 kilograms), and the deflection
of the core 12 is at least 0.080 inch. Further, a compressive
deformation from a beginning load of 10 kilograms to an ending load
of 130 kilograms for the inner core ranges from 4 millimeters to 7
millimeters and more preferably from 5 millimeters to 6.5
millimeters. The dual core deflection differential allows for low
spin off the tee to provide greater distance, and high spin on
approach shots.
[0054] FIG. 9 shows a process for producing a graph of thickness
based on pixels. An initial image 901 is generated. Then at 902 an
image with multiple radial rays from a center through the cover is
generated. In the image at 903, for each line, edge detection
techniques are used to locate the edges of the outer mantle (blue
line) and cover (green line). In this case, moving averages were
used. With the known edges, the outer edge (cover) is subtracted
from the inner edge (outer mantle) to produce a cover thickness in
pixels. This is converted to inches or mm with a simple calibration
to produce the graph 900.
[0055] FIG. 10 is an X-ray image of a golf ball 50. Using the image
taken by the X-ray unit, an operator can interrogate a layer for an
inclusion 1001. The inclusion 1001 appears as a difference
pixelated color indicating it has a significantly different
density. When this occurs in the rubber recipe, it is normally
darker and indicates that powders are not adequately dispersed
within the polymer matrix. An inclusion could lead to a premature
durability failure. When an inclusion is found, the software can
compare it against a set of criteria and sort the defective sample
accordingly.
[0056] Preferably, the outer core is composed of a polybutadiene
material, zinc penta chloride, organic peroxide, zinc stearate,
zinc diacrylate and zinc oxide.
[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the cover is preferably composed
of a thermoplastic polyurethane material, and preferably has a
thickness ranging from 0.025 inch to 0.04 inch, and more preferably
ranging from 0.03 inch to 0.04 inch. The material of the cover
preferably has a Shore D plaque hardness ranging from 30 to 60, and
more preferably from 40 to 50. The Shore D hardness measured on the
cover is preferably less than 56 Shore D. Preferably the cover 16
has a Shore A hardness of less than 96. Alternatively, the cover 16
is composed of a thermoplastic polyurethane/polyurea material. One
example is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,367,903 for a Golf Ball,
which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Another
example is Melanson, U.S. Pat. No. 7,641,841, which is hereby
incorporated by reference in its entirety. Another example is
Melanson et al, U.S. Pat. No. 7,842,211, which is hereby
incorporated by reference in its entirety. Another example is
Matroni et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,867,111, which is hereby
incorporated by reference in its entirety. Another example is
Dewanjee et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,785,522, which is hereby
incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0058] The mantle component is preferably composed of the inner
mantle layer and the outer mantle layer. The mantle component
preferably has a thickness ranging from 0.05 inch to 0.15 inch, and
more preferably from 0.06 inch to 0.08 inch. The outer mantle layer
is preferably composed of a blend of ionomer materials. One
preferred embodiment comprises SURLYN 9150 material, SURLYN 8940
material, a SURLYN AD1022 material, and a masterbatch. The SURLYN
9150 material is preferably present in an amount ranging from 20 to
45 weight percent of the cover, and more preferably 30 to 40 weight
percent. The SURLYN 8945 is preferably present in an amount ranging
from 15 to 35 weight percent of the cover, more preferably 20 to 30
weight percent, and most preferably 26 weight percent. The SURLYN
9945 is preferably present in an amount ranging from 30 to 50
weight percent of the cover, more preferably 35 to 45 weight
percent, and most preferably 41 weight percent. The SURLYN 8940 is
preferably present in an amount ranging from 5 to 15 weight percent
of the cover, more preferably 7 to 12 weight percent, and most
preferably 10 weight percent.
[0059] SURLYN 8320, from DuPont, is a very-low modulus
ethylene/methacrylic acid copolymer with partial neutralization of
the acid groups with sodium ions. SURLYN 8945, also from DuPont, is
a high acid ethylene/methacrylic acid copolymer with partial
neutralization of the acid groups with sodium ions. SURLYN 9945,
also from DuPont, is a high acid ethylene/methacrylic acid
copolymer with partial neutralization of the acid groups with zinc
ions. SURLYN 8940, also from DuPont, is an ethylene/methacrylic
acid copolymer with partial neutralization of the acid groups with
sodium ions.
[0060] The inner mantle layer is preferably composed of a blend of
ionomers, preferably comprising a terpolymer and at least two high
acid (greater than 18 weight percent) ionomers neutralized with
sodium, zinc, magnesium, or other metal ions. The material for the
inner mantle layer preferably has a Shore D plaque hardness ranging
preferably from 35 to 77, more preferably from 36 to 44, a most
preferably approximately 40. The thickness of the outer mantle
layer preferably ranges from 0.025 inch to 0.050 inch, and is more
preferably approximately 0.037 inch. The mass of an insert
including the dual core and the inner mantle layer preferably
ranges from 32 grams to 40 grams, more preferably from 34 to 38
grams, and is most preferably approximately 36 grams. The inner
mantle layer is alternatively composed of a HPF material available
from DuPont. Alternatively, the inner mantle layer 14b is composed
of a material such as disclosed in Kennedy, III et al., U.S. Pat.
No. 7,361,101 for a Golf Ball And Thermoplastic Material, which is
hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0061] The outer mantle layer is preferably composed of a blend of
ionomers, preferably comprising at least two high acid (greater
than 18 weight percent) ionomers neutralized with sodium, zinc, or
other metal ions. The blend of ionomers also preferably includes a
masterbatch. The material of the outer mantle layer preferably has
a Shore D plaque hardness ranging preferably from 55 to 75, more
preferably from 65 to 71, and most preferably approximately 67. The
thickness of the outer mantle layer preferably ranges from 0.025
inch to 0.040 inch, and is more preferably approximately 0.030
inch. The mass of the entire insert including the core, the inner
mantle layer and the outer mantle layer preferably ranges from 38
grams to 43 grams, more preferably from 39 to 41 grams, and is most
preferably approximately 41 grams.
[0062] In an alternative embodiment, the inner mantle layer is
preferably composed of a blend of ionomers, preferably comprising
at least two high acid (greater than 18 weight percent) ionomers
neutralized with sodium, zinc, or other metal ions. The blend of
ionomers also preferably includes a masterbatch. In this
embodiment, the material of the inner mantle layer has a Shore D
plaque hardness ranging preferably from 55 to 75, more preferably
from 65 to 71, and most preferably approximately 67. The thickness
of the outer mantle layer preferably ranges from 0.025 inch to
0.040 inch, and is more preferably approximately 0.030 inch. Also
in this embodiment, the outer mantle layer 14b is composed of a
blend of ionomers, preferably comprising a terpolymer and at least
two high acid (greater than 18 weight percent) ionomers neutralized
with sodium, zinc, magnesium, or other metal ions. In this
embodiment, the material for the outer mantle layer 14b preferably
has a Shore D plaque hardness ranging preferably from 35 to 77,
more preferably from 36 to 44, a most preferably approximately 40.
The thickness of the outer mantle layer preferably ranges from
0.025 inch to 0.100 inch, and more preferably ranges from 0.070
inch to 0.090 inch.
[0063] In other golf balls, the inner mantle layer is thicker than
the outer mantle layer and the outer mantle layer is harder than
the inner mantle layer, the inner mantle layer is composed of a
blend of ionomers, preferably comprising a terpolymer and at least
two high acid (greater than 18 weight percent) ionomers neutralized
with sodium, zinc, magnesium, or other metal ions. In this
embodiment, the material for the inner mantle layer has a Shore D
plaque hardness ranging preferably from 30 to 77, more preferably
from 30 to 50, and most preferably approximately 40. In this
embodiment, the material for the outer mantle layer has a Shore D
plaque hardness ranging preferably from 40 to 77, more preferably
from 50 to 71, and most preferably approximately 67. In this
embodiment, the thickness of the inner mantle layer preferably
ranges from 0.030 inch to 0.090 inch, and the thickness of the
outer mantle layer ranges from 0.025 inch to 0.070 inch.
[0064] Preferably the inner core has a diameter ranging from 0.75
inch to 1.20 inches, more preferably from 0.85 inch to 1.05 inch,
and most preferably approximately 0.95 inch. Preferably the inner
core 12a has a Shore D hardness ranging from 20 to 50, more
preferably from 25 to 40, and most preferably approximately 35.
Preferably the inner core is formed from a polybutadiene, zinc
diacrylate, zinc oxide, zinc stearate, a peptizer and peroxide.
Preferably the inner core has a mass ranging from 5 grams to 15
grams, 7 grams to 10 grams and most preferably approximately 8
grams.
[0065] Preferably the outer core has a diameter ranging from 1.25
inch to 1.55 inches, more preferably from 1.40 inch to 1.5 inch,
and most preferably approximately 1.5 inch. Preferably the inner
core has a Shore D surface hardness ranging from 40 to 65, more
preferably from 50 to 60, and most preferably approximately 56.
Preferably the inner core is formed from a polybutadiene, zinc
diacrylate, zinc oxide, zinc stearate, a peptizer and peroxide.
Preferably the combined inner core and outer core have a mass
ranging from 25 grams to 35 grams, 30 grams to 34 grams and most
preferably approximately 32 grams.
[0066] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the
golf ball preferably has an aerodynamic pattern such as disclosed
in Simonds et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,419,443 for a Low Volume Cover
For A Golf Ball, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety. Alternatively, the golf ball has an aerodynamic pattern
such as disclosed in Simonds et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,338,392 for An
Aerodynamic Surface Geometry For A Golf Ball, which is hereby
incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0067] Various aspects of the present invention golf balls have
been described in terms of certain tests or measuring procedures.
These are described in greater detail as follows.
[0068] As used herein, "Shore D hardness" of the golf ball layers
is measured generally in accordance with ASTM D-2240 type D, except
the measurements may be made on the curved surface of a component
of the golf ball, rather than on a plaque. If measured on the ball,
the measurement will indicate that the measurement was made on the
ball. In referring to a hardness of a material of a layer of the
golf ball, the measurement will be made on a plaque in accordance
with ASTM D-2240. Furthermore, the Shore D hardness of the cover is
measured while the cover remains over the mantles and cores. When a
hardness measurement is made on the golf ball, the Shore D hardness
is preferably measured at a land area of the cover.
[0069] As used herein, "Shore A hardness" of a cover is measured
generally in accordance with ASTM D-2240 type A, except the
measurements may be made on the curved surface of a component of
the golf ball, rather than on a plaque. If measured on the ball,
the measurement will indicate that the measurement was made on the
ball. In referring to a hardness of a material of a layer of the
golf ball, the measurement will be made on a plaque in accordance
with ASTM D-2240. Furthermore, the Shore A hardness of the cover is
measured while the cover remains over the mantles and cores. When a
hardness measurement is made on the golf ball, Shore A hardness is
preferably measured at a land area of the cover
[0070] The resilience or coefficient of restitution (COR) of a golf
ball is the constant "e," which is the ratio of the relative
velocity of an elastic sphere after direct impact to that before
impact. As a result, the COR ("e") can vary from 0 to 1, with 1
being equivalent to a perfectly or completely elastic collision and
0 being equivalent to a perfectly or completely inelastic
collision.
[0071] COR, along with additional factors such as club head speed,
club head mass, ball weight, ball size and density, spin rate,
angle of trajectory and surface configuration as well as
environmental conditions (e.g. temperature, moisture, atmospheric
pressure, wind, etc.) generally determine the distance a ball will
travel when hit. Along this line, the distance a golf ball will
travel under controlled environmental conditions is a function of
the speed and mass of the club and size, density and resilience
(COR) of the ball and other factors. The initial velocity of the
club, the mass of the club and the angle of the ball's departure
are essentially provided by the golfer upon striking. Since club
head speed, club head mass, the angle of trajectory and
environmental conditions are not determinants controllable by golf
ball producers and the ball size and weight are set by the
U.S.G.A., these are not factors of concern among golf ball
manufacturers. The factors or determinants of interest with respect
to improved distance are generally the COR and the surface
configuration of the ball.
[0072] The coefficient of restitution is the ratio of the outgoing
velocity to the incoming velocity. In the examples of this
application, the coefficient of restitution of a golf ball was
measured by propelling a ball horizontally at a speed of 125+/-5
feet per second (fps) and corrected to 125 fps against a generally
vertical, hard, flat steel plate and measuring the ball's incoming
and outgoing velocity electronically. Speeds were measured with a
pair of ballistic screens, which provide a timing pulse when an
object passes through them. The screens were separated by 36 inches
and are located 25.25 inches and 61.25 inches from the rebound
wall. The ball speed was measured by timing the pulses from screen
1 to screen 2 on the way into the rebound wall (as the average
speed of the ball over 36 inches), and then the exit speed was
timed from screen 2 to screen 1 over the same distance. The rebound
wall was tilted 2 degrees from a vertical plane to allow the ball
to rebound slightly downward in order to miss the edge of the
cannon that fired it. The rebound wall is solid steel.
[0073] As indicated above, the incoming speed should be 125.+-.5
fps but corrected to 125 fps. The correlation between COR and
forward or incoming speed has been studied and a correction has
been made over the .+-.5 fps range so that the COR is reported as
if the ball had an incoming speed of exactly 125.0 fps.
[0074] The measurements for deflection, compression, hardness, and
the like are preferably performed on a finished golf ball as
opposed to performing the measurement on each layer during
manufacturing.
[0075] Preferably, in a five layer golf ball comprising an inner
core, an outer core, an inner mantle layer, an outer mantle layer
and a cover, the hardness/compression of layers involve an inner
core with the greatest deflection (lowest hardness), an outer core
(combined with the inner core) with a deflection less than the
inner core, an inner mantle layer with a hardness less than the
hardness of the combined outer core and inner core, an outer mantle
layer with the hardness layer of the golf ball, and a cover with a
hardness less than the hardness of the outer mantle layer. These
measurements are preferably made on a finished golf ball that has
been torn down for the measurements.
[0076] Preferably the inner mantle layer is thicker than the outer
mantle layer or the cover layer. The dual core and dual mantle golf
ball creates an optimized velocity-initial velocity ratio (Vi/IV),
and allows for spin manipulation. The dual core provides for
increased core compression differential resulting in a high spin
for short game shots and a low spin for driver shots. A discussion
of the USGA initial velocity test is disclosed in Yagley et al.,
U.S. Pat. No. 6,595,872 for a Golf Ball With High Coefficient Of
Restitution, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety. Another example is Bartels et al., U.S. Pat. No.
6,648,775 for a Golf Ball With High Coefficient Of Restitution,
which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0077] Marshall et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,390,937 for a Method For
Verifying The Concentricity Of A Multiple Layer Golf Ball is hereby
incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0078] Crast et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,632,877, for a Dual Curable
Coating, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0079] Skrabski et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,544,337, for a Golf ball
Painting System, is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
[0080] Crast et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,365,679, for a Two component
polyurethane clear coat for golf balls, is hereby incorporated by
reference in its entirety.
[0081] Crast et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,165,564, for a UV Clearable
Clear Coat For Golf Balls, is hereby incorporated by reference in
its entirety.
[0082] Skrabski et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,319,563, for a Golf ball
Painting Method, is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
[0083] Bartels, U.S. Pat. No. 9,278,260, for a Low Compression
Three-Piece Golf Ball With An Aerodynamic Drag Rise At High Speeds,
is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0084] Chavan et al, U.S. Pat. No. 9,789,366, for a Graphene Core
For A Golf Ball, is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
[0085] Chavan et al, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/705,011,
filed on Sep. 14, 2017, for a Graphene Core For A Golf Ball, is
hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0086] Chavan et al, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/729,231,
filed on Oct. 10, 2017, for a Graphene And Nanotube Reinforced Golf
Ball, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0087] Petrich et al, U.S. patent Ser. No. 10/695,616 for a
Graphene Core For A Golf Ball With A Soft Cover, is hereby
incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0088] Jeon, U.S. patent Ser. No. 10/709,937 for a Golf Ball Core,
is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0089] Caterina et al., U.S. patent application Ser. No.
17/178,159, filed on Feb. 17, 2021, for a Method And System
Utilizing Imaging Analysis For Golf Balls is hereby incorporated by
reference in its entirety.
[0090] From the foregoing it is believed that those skilled in the
pertinent art will recognize the meritorious advancement of this
invention and will readily understand that while the present
invention has been described in association with a preferred
embodiment thereof, and other embodiments illustrated in the
accompanying drawings, numerous changes, modifications and
substitutions of equivalents may be made therein without departing
from the spirit and scope of this invention which is intended to be
unlimited by the foregoing except as may appear in the following
appended claims. Therefore, the embodiments of the invention in
which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined in
the following appended claims.
* * * * *