GOLF BALL

Abstract

Golf balls disclosed herein have a combination of aerodynamic properties and construction parameters providing a desired set of performance characteristics.

Claims

1. A golf ball comprising at least a core and a cover, the cover comprising a plurality of dimples arranged in a dimple pattern having a drag coefficient (C.sub.D) and a lift coefficient (C.sub.L), such that: 0.225C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 220,000 and a spin ratio of 0.070, 0.225C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 160,000 and a spin ratio of 0.095, and 0.225C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 120,000 and a spin ratio of 0.100; the golf ball having a weight of 1.600 ounces-1.620 ounces, and a diameter of 1.680 inches-1.700 inches, the core having a weight of at least 1.245 ounces and a diameter of at least 1.525 inches; wherein: (i) the golf ball has a compression that is less than 60, and the golf ball has a coefficient of restitution (COR) of 0.785-0.815; (ii) the golf ball has a compression of at least 60 and less than 80, and the golf ball has a COR of 0.770-0.815; (iii) the golf ball has a compression of at least 80 and less than 100, and the golf ball has a COR of 0.740-0.810; or (iv) the golf ball has a compression of at least 100, and the golf ball has a COR of 0.710-0.780.

2. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein the golf ball compression is less than 60, and the golf ball COR is 0.785-0.815.

3. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein the golf ball compression is at least 60 and less than 80, and the golf ball COR is 0.770-0.815.

4. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein the golf ball compression is at least 80 and less than 100, and the golf ball COR is 0.740-0.810.

5. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein the golf ball compression is at least 100, and the golf ball COR is 0.710-0.780.

6. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein the golf ball has a coefficient of restitution that is no greater than 0.800.

7. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein the golf ball has a coefficient of restitution that is no greater than 0.780.

8. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein the core has a coefficient of restitution that is no greater than 0.770.

9. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein the core has a coefficient of restitution that is no greater than 0.750.

10. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein the drag coefficient (C.sub.D) and the lift coefficient (C.sub.L) at a Reynolds number of 225,000, and spin ratio of 0.070 have the following relationship: 1.375C.sub.D/C.sub.L<1.575.

11. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein the drag coefficient (C.sub.D) and the lift coefficient (C.sub.L) at a Reynolds number of 225,000, and spin ratio of 0.070 have the following relationship: 1.575C.sub.D/C.sub.L<1.775.

12. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein the drag coefficient (C.sub.D) and the lift coefficient (C.sub.L) at a Reynolds number of 225,000, and spin ratio of 0.070 have the following relationship: 1.775C.sub.D/C.sub.L1.975.

13. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein the golf ball is a two-layer golf ball.

14. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein the golf ball is a three-layer golf ball.

15. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein the golf ball is a four-layer golf ball.

16. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein the core has a weight of at least 1.260 ounces and a diameter of at least 1.530 inches.

17. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein the core has a weight of at least 1.300 ounces and a diameter of at least 1.545 inches.

18. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein the golf ball has an initial velocity of no greater than 252 feet/second.

19. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein: 0.230C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 220,000 and a spin ratio of 0.070; 0.230C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 160,000 and a spin ratio of 0.095; and 0.230C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 120,000 and a spin ratio of 0.100.

20. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein: 0.225C.sub.D0.230 at a Reynolds number of 220,000 and a spin ratio of 0.070; 0.225C.sub.D0.230 at a Reynolds number of 160,000 and a spin ratio of 0.095; and 0.225C.sub.D0.230 at a Reynolds number of 120,000 and a spin ratio of 0.100.

21. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein the golf ball has a coefficient of restitution (COR.sub.ball) and an initial velocity (IV.sub.ball) (feet/second), such that a Speed Factor(S) is defined by the following equation: $S=902.67+814.63\left({\mathrm{COR}}_{\mathrm{ball}}\right)-5.44{\mathrm{IV}}_{\mathrm{ball}},$ wherein 177S181.

22. A golf ball comprising at least a core and a cover, the cover comprising a plurality of dimples arranged in a dimple pattern having a drag coefficient (C.sub.D) and a lift coefficient (C.sub.L), such that: 0.225C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 220,000 and a spin ratio of 0.070, 0.225C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 160,000 and a spin ratio of 0.095, and 0.225C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 120,000 and a spin ratio of 0.100; the golf ball having a weight of 1.600 ounces-1.620 ounces, and a diameter of 1.680 inches-1.700 inches, the core having a weight of at least 1.245 ounces and a diameter of at least 1.525 inches; wherein the golf ball has a compression (C.sub.0) that is greater than 40, and the golf ball has a coefficient of restitution (COR), such that: $\begin{array}{cc}-9.71{10}^{-6}{C}_0^2+5.46{10}^{-4}{C}_0+0.765\mathrm{COR};\mathrm{and}& \left(i\right)\end{array}$ $\begin{array}{cc}\mathrm{COR}-8.14{10}^{-6}{C}_0^2+7.24{10}^{-4}{C}_0+0.809.& \left(\mathrm{ii}\right)\end{array}$

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] Further features and advantages of the present disclosure can be ascertained from the following detailed description that is provided in connection with the drawings described below:

[0044] FIG. 1A is an illustration of the air flow on a golf ball in flight.

[0045] FIG. 1B is an illustration of the forces acting on a golf ball in flight.

[0046] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a method for measuring the diameter of a dimple and other dimple properties.

[0047] FIG. 3 illustrates a plot of golf ball coefficient of restitution and golf ball compression for an exemplary golf ball construction.

[0048] FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of a two-layer golf ball in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of a three-layer golf ball in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional view of a four-layer golf ball in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] FIG. 4D is a cross-sectional view of a five-layer golf ball in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] FIG. 5 illustrates representative golf ball flight patterns for a plurality of exemplary golf balls and a conventional golf ball.

[0053] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate an exemplary drag coefficient profile according to one exemplary dimple pattern.

[0054] FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate an exemplary integrated drag area profile according to one exemplary dimple pattern.

[0055] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate a first exemplary dimple pattern according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0056] FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate a second exemplary dimple pattern according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0057] FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate a third exemplary dimple pattern according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0058] FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate a fourth exemplary dimple pattern according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0059] FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate a fifth exemplary dimple pattern according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0060] FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate a sixth exemplary dimple pattern according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0061] FIGS. 14A and 14B illustrate a seventh exemplary dimple pattern according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0062] The dimples on a golf ball are used to adjust or modify the aerodynamic characteristics of a golf ball and, therefore, the dimple patterns, shape, volume, and various other dimple properties or characteristics can be designed in order to modify the overall flight of a golf ball. Determining specific dimple arrangements and dimple shapes that result in desired aerodynamic properties can involve the direct measurement of aerodynamic characteristics. These aerodynamic characteristics define the forces acting upon the golf ball throughout flight. The term dimple can include any texturizing on the surface of a golf ball, e.g., depressions and projections.

[0063] Aerodynamic forces acting on a golf ball are typically resolved into orthogonal components of lift and drag. Lift is defined as the aerodynamic force component acting perpendicular to the flight path. It results from a difference in pressure that is created by a distortion in the air flow that results from the back spin of the golf ball. A boundary layer forms at the stagnation point of the ball, B, then grows and separates at points S1 and S2, as shown in FIG. 1A. Due to the ball backspin, the top of the ball moves in the direction of the airflow, which delays the separation of the boundary layer. In contrast, the bottom of the ball moves against the direction of airflow, thus advancing the separation of the boundary layer at the bottom of the ball. Therefore, the position of separation of the boundary layer at the top of the ball, S1, is further back than the position of separation of the boundary layer at the bottom of the ball, S2. This asymmetrical separation creates a downward deflection in the flow pattern, requiring the air over the top of the ball to move faster and, thus, have lower pressure than the air underneath the ball.

[0064] Drag is defined as the aerodynamic force component acting parallel to the golf ball's flight direction. As the ball travels through the air, the air surrounding the ball has different velocities and, accordingly, different pressures. The air exerts maximum pressure at the stagnation point, B, on the front of the ball, as shown in FIG. 1A. The air then flows over the sides toward the back of the golf ball and separates from the surface of the golf ball at points S1 and S2, leaving a large turbulent flow area with low pressure, i.e., the wake. The difference between the high pressure in front of the golf ball and the low pressure in the wake behind the golf ball reduces the speed and acts as the primary source of drag for a golf ball.

[0065] The aerodynamic forces acting on a golf ball in flight are disclosed in Equation 1 and illustrated in FIG. 1B:

[00004]$\begin{array}{cc}F=F_L+F_D+F_G& \left(\mathrm{Equation}1\right)\end{array}$ [0066] where F=total force acting on the ball; F.sub.L=lift force; F.sub.D=drag force; and F.sub.G=gravity force.

[0067] The lift force (F.sub.L) is the component of the aerodynamic force acting in a direction dictated by the cross product of the spin vector and the velocity vector. The drag force (F.sub.D) is the component of the aerodynamic force acting in a direction that is directly opposite the velocity vector. The lift and drag forces of Equation 1 are calculated in Equations 2 and 3, respectively:

[00005]$\begin{array}{cc}{F}_L=0.5C_L{\mathrm{AV}}^2& \left(\mathrm{Equation}2\right)\end{array}$$\begin{array}{cc}{F}_D=0.5C_D{\mathrm{AV}}^2& \left(\mathrm{Equation}3\right)\end{array}$ [0068] where =density of air (slugs/ft.sup.3); A=projected area of the ball (ft.sup.2) ((/4)D.sup.2); D=golf ball diameter (ft); V=ball velocity (ft/s); C.sub.L=dimensionless lift coefficient; and C.sub.D=dimensionless drag coefficient.

[0069] Lift and drag coefficients are used to quantify the force imparted to a golf ball in flight and are dependent on air density, air viscosity, ball speed, and spin rate; the influence of all these parameters may be captured by two dimensionless parameters: spin ratio (SR) and Reynolds number (Re). Spin ratio is the rotational surface speed of the ball divided by ball velocity. Reynolds number quantifies the ratio of inertial to viscous forces acting on the golf ball moving through air. SR and Re are calculated in Equations 4 and 5 below:

[00006]$\begin{array}{cc}\mathrm{SR}=\left(D/2\right)/V& \left(\mathrm{Equation}4\right)\end{array}$$\begin{array}{cc}\mathrm{Re}=\mathrm{DV}/& \left(\mathrm{Equation}5\right)\end{array}$ [0070] where =ball rotation rate (radians/s) (2(RPS)); RPS=golf ball rotation rate (revolution/s); V=ball velocity (ft/s); D=ball diameter (ft); =air density (slugs/ft.sup.3); and =absolute viscosity of air (lb/ft.sup.2-s).

[0071] There are a number of suitable methods for determining the lift and drag coefficients for a given range of spin rate and Reynolds number, which include the use of indoor test ranges with ballistic screen technology. U.S. Pat. No. 5,682,230, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein, teaches the use of a series of ballistic screens to acquire lift and drag coefficients. U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,186,002, 6,285,445, and 6,729,976, also incorporated in their entirety by reference herein, disclose methods for determining lift and drag coefficients for a given range of velocities and spin rates using an indoor test range, wherein the values for C.sub.L and C.sub.D are related to spin rates and Reynolds numbers for each shot. One skilled in the art of golf ball aerodynamics testing could readily determine the lift and drag coefficients through the use of an indoor test range.

[0072] One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the desired aerodynamic performance, characterized by the coefficients of lift and drag, may be achieved by combining various elements of dimple pattern characterization including but not limited to total dimple count, total surface coverage, total dimple volume, number of different dimple diameters, average dimple diameter, range of dimple diameters, dimple plan shape, dimple profile, and underlying pattern geometry to generate exemplary dimple pattern categories.

[0073] According to one aspect, the aerodynamic performance parameters and features disclosed herein can provide a golf ball with a relatively increased drag profile as compared to modern, high-performance dimple patterns. In one aspect, the presently disclosed aerodynamic performance parameters and features can be considered relatively high drag as compared to modern, high-performance dimple patterns. As a result, a golf ball exhibiting the disclosed aerodynamic performance parameters and features disclosed herein can have a relatively shorter carry distance as compared to golf balls having modern, high-performance dimple patterns, assuming all other factors are maintained constant, such as golf ball construction parameters.

[0074] One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the presently disclosed aerodynamic performance parameters and features can be matched or paired with various types of golf ball constructions, including modern, high-performance golf ball constructions, as well as other golf ball constructions which may be considered relatively slower or faster constructions as compared to modern, high-performance golf ball constructions.

[0075] In one aspect, the presently disclosed aerodynamic performance parameters and features can be matched or paired with relatively faster golf ball constructions, such as a golf ball having a relatively higher COR and/or initial velocity compared to modern, high-performance golf balls. In another aspect, the presently disclosed aerodynamic performance parameters and features can be matched or paired with modern, high-performance golf ball constructions, i.e., a golf ball exhibiting a COR and/or initial velocity that is typical of a majority of modern, high-performance golf balls. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand based on the present disclosure that the aerodynamic performance parameters and features disclosed herein can also be matched or paired with relatively slower golf ball constructions, as well.

Drag Coefficient

[0076] Determination of the drag coefficient (C.sub.D) is necessary to calculate the drag force acting on a golf ball at a given instant in flight, and for a golf ball of a given diameter traveling at a given speed through air with a given density, a higher drag coefficient indicates a greater drag force acting on that golf ball. One can therefore refer to a dimple configuration that induces an overall greater drag force magnitude by identifying higher values of C.sub.D at given Reynolds numbers and spin ratios. It follows, then, that a pattern with overall higher values of C.sub.D may have a shorter flight distance.

[0077] There are a number of suitable methods for determining the lift and drag coefficients for a given range of spin rates and Reynolds numbers, including the use of indoor test ranges. U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,186,002 and 6,285,445, the entireties of which are each incorporated by reference herein, disclose methods for determining lift and drag coefficients for a given range of velocities and spin rates using an indoor test range, wherein the values for C.sub.L and C.sub.D are related to spin rates and Reynolds numbers for each shot. One skilled in the art of golf ball aerodynamics testing could readily determine the lift and drag coefficients through the use of an indoor test range.

[0078] In particular, a sub-set of golf balls, such as at least six golf balls, or at least twelve golf balls, are tested in an ITR in the pole-over-pole orientation and in the poles-horizontal orientation, yielding at least six sets of flight data per orientation, and the drag and lift coefficients in each orientation are determined at the following set of fifteen conditions shown in Table 1.

TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Condition Nominal Speed (ft/s) Nominal Spin (rev/s) 1 278 35 2 278 52 3 220 30 4 220 38 5 220 49 6 161 29 7 161 47 8 130 30 9 130 39 10 130 48 11 108 29 12 108 44 13 96 30 14 95 36 15 93 42

[0079] In each orientation, the median drag coefficient and the median lift coefficient at each condition is used in conjunction with the methodology set forth by the United States Golf Association's for Overall Distance and Symmetry conformance testing to predict the aerodynamic performance of the golf ball. Specifically, the lift and drag coefficients are calculated for each ball individually in each orientation at the fifteen conditions using the following equations, wherein a.sub.1-a.sub.3, b.sub.1-b.sub.3, c.sub.1-c.sub.4, and d.sub.1-d.sub.2 are determined using a least squares regression per the USGA's published documentation, including The Indoor Test Range (ITR) Technical Description and Operation Manual and associated addenda:

[00007]$\begin{array}{cc}{C}_L=\left[a_1+\frac{a_2}{{\mathrm{Re}}^5}+\frac{a_3}{{\mathrm{Re}}^7}\right]+\left[b_1+b_2\frac{\ln \left(\mathrm{Re}\right)}{{\mathrm{Re}}^2}+\frac{b_3}{{\mathrm{Re}}^2}\right].Math.\mathrm{SR}& \left(\mathrm{Equation}6\right)\end{array}$$\begin{array}{cc}{C}_D=\left[c_1+\frac{c_2}{{\mathrm{Re}}^3}+\frac{c_3}{{\mathrm{Re}}^5}+\frac{c_4}{{\mathrm{Re}}^7}\right]+\left[d_1+d_2\frac{\ln \left(\mathrm{Re}\right)}{{\mathrm{Re}}^2}\right].Math.{\mathrm{SR}}^2& \left(\mathrm{Equation}7\right)\end{array}$

The individual ball results are then used to determine the median lift and drag coefficients at the fifteen test conditions, which are representative of a ball having the median aerodynamic performance, herein referred to as the median ball or median golf ball.

[0080] As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the drag coefficient at corresponding Reynolds numbers throughout the predicted flight is illustrated for an exemplary golf ball having a relatively high drag coefficient profile. More specifically, FIG. 6A illustrates the drag coefficient for the median golf ball tested using a pole-over-pole orientation, and FIG. 6B illustrates the drag coefficient for the median golf ball tested using the poles-horizontal orientation. Although not specifically illustrated, one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that all of the Preferred Examples disclosed herein would have associated drag coefficient profiles similar to FIGS. 6A and 6B, and that the associated drag coefficient profiles may be higher or lower than those illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B. One of ordinary skill in the art would also understand that a drag coefficient profile similar to FIG. 6A may be associated with the poles-horizontal orientation and that of FIG. 6B may be associated with the pole-over-pole orientation. When presented herein as a single value, the drag coefficient is the average of the drag coefficient of the median ball in the pole-over-pole orientation and the drag coefficient of the median ball in the poles-horizontal orientation. Likewise, when presented herein as a single value, the lift coefficient is the average of the lift coefficient of the median ball in the pole-over-pole orientation and the lift coefficient of the median ball in the poles-horizontal orientation.

Integrated Drag Area

[0081] The drag area characterizes the effectiveness of the aerodynamic performance of a dimple pattern throughout approximately the first second of flight, during which aerodynamic forces are most pronounced.

[0082] A lower drag area can be indicative of a more efficient aerodynamic pattern, representing a longer predicted distance at the specified launch conditions and using the disclosed methodology. Likewise, a pattern with a higher drag area may have a shorter predicted flight distance under the discussed methodology.

[0083] Once the median golf ball lift and drag coefficients are established for the golf ball dimple pattern under analysis, the predicted trajectory for the golf ball is then calculated by the USGA's computation procedure with initial launch inputs (i.e., initial or launch condition) of a golf ball speed of 182.0 mph, a launch angle 10.0 degrees, and a spin rate of 2,700 rpm for each orientation, pole-over-pole and poles-horizontal, and the Reynolds numbers and drag coefficients from the simulation for the median ball are retained and have a functional relationship C.sub.D(Re). Whenever referenced herein, the integrated drag area is established using the golf ball speed, launch angle, and spin rate disclosed above.

[0084] The drag area for the pole-over-pole (DA.sub.PP) and the poles-horizontal (DA.sub.PH) orientations is given by:

[00008]$\begin{array}{cc}{\mathrm{DA}}_{\mathrm{PP}=}{}_{160,000}^{225,000}{C}_D\left(\mathrm{Re}\right)\mathrm{dRe}& \left(\mathrm{Equation}8\right)\end{array}$$\begin{array}{cc}{\mathrm{DA}}_{\mathrm{PH}=}{}_{160,000}^{225,000}{C}_D\left(\mathrm{Re}\right)\mathrm{dRe}& \left(\mathrm{Equation}9\right)\end{array}$ [0085] and the average drag area is given by:

[00009]$\begin{array}{cc}{\mathrm{DA}}_{=}\frac{{\mathrm{DA}}_{\mathrm{PP}}+{\mathrm{DA}}_{\mathrm{PH}}}{2},& \left(\mathrm{Equation}10\right)\end{array}$ [0086] when integrated drag area is presented herein as a single value, it is understood to refer to the average integrated drag area DA.

[0087] The integrals are calculated by a Reimann sum with at least eight trapezoidal partitions. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that alternative partition shapes may be used in conjunction with a Reimann or other summation.

[0088] As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the integrated drag area is illustrated for an exemplary golf ball having a relatively high drag coefficient profile. The integrated drag area shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B can be measured using a setup condition of 182.0 mph golf ball speed, 10.0 degree launch angle, and 2,700 rpm spin rate or rotational speed. More specifically, FIG. 7A illustrates the integrated drag area for a golf ball tested using a pole-over-pole orientation, and FIG. 7B illustrates the integrated drag area for a golf ball tested using the poles-horizontal orientation. Although not specifically illustrated, one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that all of the Preferred Examples disclosed herein would have associated integrated drag profiles similar to FIGS. 7A and 7B, and that the associated integrated drag profiles may be higher or lower than those illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B. One of ordinary skill in the art would also understand that an illustration of the integrated drag area similar to that in FIG. 7A may be associated with the poles-horizontal orientation and one similar to that of FIG. 7B may be associated with the pole-over-pole orientation.

Golf Ball Flight Window

[0089] In one aspect, dimple patterns for golf balls can be configured to provide an associated flight window, which in some aspects can be related to or dependent on a drag coefficient and/or lift coefficient associated with said dimple patterns. For example, a dimple pattern that provides a relatively lower drag coefficient to lift coefficient ratio (C.sub.D/C.sub.L) can generally correspond to a higher flying golf ball while a relatively higher drag coefficient to lift coefficient ratio (C.sub.D/C.sub.L) can generally correspond to a lower flying golf ball. Table 2 below provides some exemplary ranges for drag coefficient to lift coefficient ratios (C.sub.D/C.sub.L).

[0090] As used herein, the terms drag coefficient can correspond to a median drag coefficient and lift coefficient can correspond to a median lift coefficient as measured for a sample number of golf balls as detailed above.

[0091] In one aspect, the listed drag coefficient to lift coefficient ratios (C.sub.D/C.sub.L) provide ranges for exemplary golf balls having a relatively slower golf ball construction as compared to a modern, high-performance golf ball construction. For example, the values below can correspond to golf balls having a COR of at least 0.710 and not greater than 0.815, golf balls having an initial velocity of at least 238 feet/second but not greater than 255 feet/second, and/or golf balls having both characteristics.

[0092] When used herein, any recited values for C.sub.D/C.sub.L refer to the median drag and lift coefficients at a Reynolds number of 225,000, and spin ratio of 0.070.

TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Flight Window Drag Coefficient to Lift Coefficient Ratio (C.sub.D/C.sub.L) High [00010]$1.375\frac{C_D}{C_L}<1.575$ Middle [00011]$1.575\frac{C_D}{C_L}<1.775$ Low [00012]$1.775\frac{C_D}{C_L}1.975$

[0093] In one aspect, the objective range of a high flight window golf ball (i.e., 1.375C.sub.D/C.sub.L<1.575) can correspond to a relatively high peak height of a golf ball.

[0094] In one aspect, the objective range of a middle flight window golf ball (i.e., 1.575C.sub.D/C.sub.L<1.775) can correspond to a relatively medium peak height of a golf ball.

[0095] In one aspect, the objective range of a low flight window golf ball (i.e., 1.775C.sub.D/C.sub.L1.975) can correspond to a relatively low peak height of a golf ball.

[0096] In one aspect, a golf ball can be provided that exhibits a drag coefficient and a lift coefficient having the following relationship: 1.375C.sub.D/C.sub.L. In one aspect, a golf ball can be provided that exhibits a drag coefficient and a lift coefficient having the following relationship: C.sub.D/C.sub.L1.975.

[0097] In one aspect, a golf ball is disclosed that comprises at least a core and a cover. The golf ball can include at least one additional layer besides a core and a cover. In one aspect, the golf ball can include a multi-layered core, a multi-layered cover, and/or a multi-layered casing/intermediate layer.

[0098] In one aspect, the golf ball can have a weight of 1.600 ounces-1.620 ounces. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the weight of the golf ball can vary. For example, in one aspect, the weight can be less than 1.600 ounces, or the weight can be greater than 1.620 ounces.

[0099] In one aspect, the golf ball can have a diameter of 1.680 inches-1.700 inches. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the size or diameter of the golf ball can vary. For example, the diameter can be less than 1.680 inches or the diameter can be greater than 1.700 inches.

[0100] The cover can comprise a plurality of dimples arranged in a dimple pattern that has or exhibits a series of drag coefficients (C.sub.D) and a lift coefficients (C.sub.L) over a variety of Reynolds numbers and spin ratios. In one aspect, the drag coefficient has the following range: 0.225C.sub.D0.235 at a predefined subset of Reynolds numbers and spin ratios.

[0101] In one aspect, the drag coefficient has the following range: 0.225C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 220,000 and a spin ratio of 0.070; the drag coefficient has the following range: 0.225C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 160,000 and a spin ratio of 0.095; and the drag coefficient has the following range: 0.225C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 120,000 and a spin ratio of 0.100.

[0102] In one aspect, the drag coefficient has the following range: 0.225C.sub.D0.230 at a Reynolds number of 220,000 and a spin ratio of 0.070; the drag coefficient has the following range: 0.225C.sub.D0.230 at a Reynolds number of 160,000 and a spin ratio of 0.095; and the drag coefficient has the following range: 0.225C.sub.D0.230 at a Reynolds number of 120,000 and a spin ratio of 0.100.

[0103] In one aspect, the drag coefficient has the following range: 0.230C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 220,000 and a spin ratio of 0.070; and the drag coefficient has the following range: 0.230C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 160,000 and a spin ratio of 0.095; and the drag coefficient has the following range: 0.230C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 120,000 and a spin ratio of 0.100.

[0104] In one aspect, the drag coefficient has the following range: 0.225C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 220,000 and a spin ratio of 0.070; and the drag coefficient has the following range: 0.225C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 160,000 and a spin ratio of 0.095.

[0105] In one aspect, the drag coefficient has the following range: 0.225C.sub.D0.230 at a Reynolds number of 220,000 and a spin ratio of 0.070; and the drag coefficient has the following range: 0.225C.sub.D0.230 at a Reynolds number of 160,000 and a spin ratio of 0.095.

[0106] In one aspect, the drag coefficient has the following range: 0.230C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 220,000 and a spin ratio of 0.070; and the drag coefficient has the following range: 0.230C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 160,000 and a spin ratio of 0.095.

[0107] In one particular aspect, the drag and lift coefficients can have a particular relationship. This particular relationship can be associated with or dictate the flight window of the golf ball. In one aspect, the drag coefficient and the lift coefficient can have the following relationship: 1.575C.sub.D/C.sub.L<1.775. In another aspect, the drag coefficient and the lift coefficient can have the following relationship: 1.775C.sub.D/C.sub.L. In yet another aspect, the drag coefficient and the lift coefficient can have the following relationship: C.sub.D/C.sub.L1.975. In yet another aspect, the drag coefficient and the lift coefficient can have the following relationship: C.sub.D/C.sub.L1.575. In a further aspect, the drag coefficient and the lift coefficient can have the following relationship: 1.375C.sub.D/C.sub.L. In a further aspect, the drag coefficient and the lift coefficient can have the following relationship: 1.775 C.sub.D/C.sub.L.

[0108] Various other exemplary dimple patterns and/or dimple parameters are provided herein.

[0109] As disclosed herein, a golf ball that exhibits the presently disclosed aerodynamic performance attributes or characteristics can be associated with a golf ball having various golf ball construction parameters. The golf ball construction can be classified or characterized generally according to certain performance characteristics, such as compression, coefficient of restitution, initial velocity, etc. Each of these parameters is described in more detail herein.

[0110] In one aspect, the golf ball can have a compression of less than 60. In one aspect, the golf ball can have a compression of 60-80. In one aspect, the golf ball can have a compression of 80-100. In one aspect, the golf ball can have a compression of greater than 100. In one aspect, the golf ball can have a compression of 50-75. In one aspect, the golf ball can have a compression of 40-65. In one aspect, the golf ball can have a compression of 70-85. In one aspect, the golf ball can have a compression of 95-110. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the compression can vary.

[0111] In one aspect, the golf ball has a coefficient of restitution of 0.775-0.815. In one aspect, the COR of the golf ball can be 0.760-0.795. In one aspect, the COR of the golf ball can be 0.755-0.785. In one aspect, the COR of the golf ball can be 0.710-0.760. In one aspect, the COR of the golf ball can be 0.725-0.750. In one aspect, the COR of the golf ball can be 0.745-0.785. The golf ball COR can be no greater than 0.800, or no greater than 0.780, in some aspects. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the coefficient of restitution can vary.

[0112] In one aspect, the golf ball can have a compression of less than 60, and a COR of 0.785-0.815. In one aspect, the golf ball can have a compression of at least 60 and less than 80, and a COR of 0.770-0.815. In one aspect, the golf ball can have a compression of at least 80 and less than 100, and a COR of 0.740-0.810. In one aspect, the golf ball can have a compression of at least 100, and a COR of 0.710-0.780.

[0113] In one aspect, the golf ball can have an initial velocity of no greater than 255 feet/second. In one aspect, the golf ball can have an initial velocity of no greater than 252 feet/second. In one aspect, the golf ball can have an initial velocity of no greater than 250 feet/second. In one aspect, the golf ball can have an initial velocity of no greater than 248 feet/second. In one aspect, the golf ball can have an initial velocity of 238-255 feet/second. In one aspect, the golf ball can have an initial velocity of 238-252 feet/second. In one aspect, the golf ball can have an initial velocity of 238-248 feet/second. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the initial velocity can vary.

[0114] In one aspect, the golf ball can have a dimple pattern that has an integrated drag area (DA) defined by:

[00013]$\mathrm{DA}={}_{160,000}^{225,000}{C}_D\left(\mathrm{Re}\right)\mathrm{dRe}$ [0115] where C.sub.D(Re) is established at a launch condition of a golf ball speed of 182.0 mph, a launch angle of 10.0 degrees, and a spin rate of 2,700 rpm. The integrated drag area can be defined such that: 13,750DA14,750.

[0116] In one aspect, the integrated drag area can be defined such that: 13,750DA.

[0117] In one aspect, the integrated drag area can be defined such that: DA14,750.

[0118] In one aspect, the integrated drag area can be defined such that: 14,000DA14,750.

[0119] In one aspect, the integrated drag area can be defined such that: 14,000DA14,500.

[0120] In one aspect, the integrated drag area can be defined such that: 13,750DA14,500.

[0121] In one aspect, the integrated drag area can be defined such that: 14,250DA14,750.

[0122] In yet another aspect, a golf ball is disclosed herein that comprises at least a core and a cover. The golf ball can have a weight of 1.600 ounces-1.620 ounces and a diameter of 1.680 inches-1.700 inches.

[0123] The cover can comprise a plurality of dimples arranged in a dimple pattern having a drag coefficient (C.sub.D) and a lift coefficient (C.sub.L); wherein 0.225C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 220,000 and a spin ratio of 0.070; 0.225C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 160,000 and a spin ratio of 0.095; and 0.225C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 120,000 and a spin ratio of 0.100.

[0124] In yet another aspect, a golf ball is provided that has a weight of 1.600 ounces-1.620 ounces and a diameter of 1.680 inches-1.700 inches, and a cover for the golf ball comprises a plurality of dimples arranged in a dimple pattern having a drag coefficient (C.sub.D), a lift coefficient (C.sub.L), and an integrated drag area (DA) defined by:

[00014]$\mathrm{DA}={}_{160,000}^{225,000}{C}_D\left(\mathrm{Re}\right)\mathrm{dRe}$ [0125] where C.sub.D(Re) is established at a launch condition of a golf ball speed of 182.0 mph, a launch angle of 10.0 degrees, and a spin rate of 2,700 rpm, and wherein 13,750DA14,750.

Golf Ball Dimple Pattern Properties

[0126] The following provides exemplary dimple pattern properties, such as total dimples or quantity of dimples, total surface coverage percentage by dimples, quantity of different dimple diameters, average dimple diameters, dimple volume, chord depths, edge angles, dimple diameter disparities, etc.

Quantity of Dimples

[0127] One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the quantity of dimples on a golf ball having the aerodynamic properties disclosed herein can vary, along with other dimple parameters. In one aspect, an exemplary golf ball having the aerodynamic properties disclosed herein can include at least 100 dimples, or at least 200 dimples, or at least 300 dimples, or at least 400 dimples, or at least 500 dimples, or at least 600 dimples, or at least 700 dimples. In one aspect, total number of dimples on a golf ball having the aerodynamic properties disclosed herein can be 200-350 dimples, or 125-300 dimples, or 250-450 dimples, or 350-450 dimples, or 375 dimples-500 dimples. In one aspect, total number of dimples on a golf ball having the aerodynamic properties disclosed herein can be at least 300 dimples, or at least 350 dimples, or at least 400 dimples, or at least 450 dimples. In one aspect, total number of dimples on a golf ball having the aerodynamic properties disclosed herein can be no greater than 400 dimples, or no greater than 350 dimples, or no greater than 300 dimples, or no greater than 250 dimples.

Total Surface Coverage

[0128] One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the total surface coverage of dimples on a golf ball having the aerodynamic properties disclosed herein can vary, along with other specific dimple parameters. In one aspect, the dimples can cover at least 60% of a total surface area of the golf ball. In another aspect, the dimples can cover at least 65% of a total surface area of the golf ball. In another aspect, the dimples can cover at least 70% of a total surface area of the golf ball. In another aspect, the dimples can cover at least 75% of a total surface area of the golf ball. In another aspect, the dimples can cover at least 80% of a total surface area of the golf ball. In another aspect, the dimples can cover less than 70% of a total surface area of the golf ball. In another aspect, the dimples can cover less than 75% of a total surface area of the golf ball. In another aspect, the dimples can cover less than 80% of a total surface area of the golf ball. In another aspect, the dimples can cover less than 65% of a total surface area of the golf ball. In another aspect, the dimples can cover 65%-75%, or 70%-75%, or 75%-80%, or 80%-85%, or more than 85% of a total surface area of the golf ball. In particular, total surface area is calculated using the surface cap coverage of the dimples.

Dimple Diameters

[0129] A golf ball having the aerodynamic properties disclosed herein can include dimples of various dimple diameters, as one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate. In one aspect, the dimple diameters for a golf ball having the aerodynamic properties disclosed herein. In one aspect, the golf ball can include dimples having one dimple diameter, two dimple diameters, three dimple diameters, four dimple diameters, five dimple diameters, six dimple diameters, seven dimple diameters, eight dimple diameters, nine dimple diameters, ten dimple diameters, or more than ten dimple diameters.

[0130] The diameter of a dimple having a non-circular plan shape is defined by its equivalent diameter, d.sub.e, which is calculated as:

[00015]$d_e=2\sqrt{\frac{A}{}}$

where A is the plan shape area of the dimple. By the term, plan shape area, it is meant the area based on a planar view of the dimple plan shape, such that the viewing plane is normal to an axis connecting the center of the golf ball to the centroid of the dimple. Diameter measurements are determined on finished golf balls according to FIG. 2. Generally, it may be difficult to measure a dimple's diameter due to the indistinct nature of the boundary dividing the dimple from the ball's undisturbed land surface. Due to the effect of paint and/or the dimple design itself, the junction between the land surface and dimple may not be a sharp corner and is therefore indistinct. This can make the measurement of a dimple's diameter somewhat ambiguous. To resolve this problem, dimple diameter on a finished golf ball is measured according to the method shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 2 shows a dimple half-profile 4, extending from the dimple centerline 1 to the land surface outside of the dimple 3. A ball phantom surface 2 is constructed above the dimple as a continuation of the land surface 3. A first tangent line T1 is then constructed at a point on the dimple sidewall that is spaced 0.003 inches radially inward from the phantom surface 2. T1 intersects phantom surface 2 at a point P1, which defines a nominal dimple edge position. A second tangent line T2 is then constructed, tangent to the phantom surface 2, at P1. The edge angle is the angle between T1 and T2. The dimple diameter is the distance between P1 and its equivalent point diametrically opposite along the dimple perimeter. Alternatively, it is twice the distance between P1 and the dimple centerline 1, measured in a direction perpendicular to centerline 1. The dimple depth is the distance measured along a ball radius from the phantom surface of the ball to the deepest point on the dimple. The dimple volume is the space enclosed between the phantom surface 2 and the dimple surface 4 (extended along T1 until it intersects the phantom surface). For purposes of the present disclosure, dimples having substantially the same diameter, also referred to herein as same diameter dimples, includes dimples on a finished ball having respective diameters that differ by less than 0.005 inches due to manufacturing variances. Similarly, one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that other dimple properties, such as dimple volume, may differ among finished balls due to manufacturing variances.

[0131] In one aspect, an average dimple diameter of dimples for a golf ball having the aerodynamic properties disclosed herein can be 0.100 inches-0.200 inches. In one aspect, the average dimple diameter can be 0.050 inches-0.300 inches. In one aspect, the average dimple diameter can be 0.120 inches-0.250 inches. In one aspect, the average dimple diameter is no greater than 0.175 inches. In one aspect, the average dimple diameter is no greater than 0.200 inches. In one aspect, the average dimple diameter is no greater than 0.250 inches. In one aspect, the average dimple diameter is at least 0.100 inches. In one aspect, the average dimple diameter is at least 0.125 inches. In one aspect, the average dimple diameter is at least 0.150 inches. In one aspect, the average dimple diameter is at least 0.175 inches.

[0132] In one aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be 0.115 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be 0.185 inches. In another aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be 0.100 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be 0.185 inches. In another aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be 0.110 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be 0.185 inches. In another aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be 0.100 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be 0.200 inches. In another aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be 0.110 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be 0.180 inches. In another aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be 0.128 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be 0.195 inches. In another aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be 0.140 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be 0.210 inches. In another aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be 0.110 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be 0.180 inches. In another aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be 0.125 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be 0.198 inches. In another aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be 0.110 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be 0.195 inches. In another aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be 0.130 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be 0.210 inches. In another aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be 0.155 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be 0.210 inches. In another aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be 0.128 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be 0.180 inches. In another aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be 0.125 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be 0.170 inches. In another aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be 0.120 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be 0.170 inches. In another aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be 0.100 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be 0.200 inches. In another aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be 0.100 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be 0.210 inches. In another aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be 0.140 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be 0.210 inches.

[0133] In one aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be at least 0.115 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be no greater than 0.185 inches. In one aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be at least 0.115 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be no greater than 0.210 inches. In one aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be at least 0.110 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be no greater than 0.210 inches. In one aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be at least 0.120 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be no greater than 0.210 inches. In one aspect, a minimum dimple diameter can be at least 0.145 inches and a maximum dimple diameter can be no greater than 0.240 inches.

Dimple Diameter Disparity

[0134] For a dimple pattern having two or more different dimple diameters, the dimple diameter disparity describes the difference between (i) a dimple diameter and (ii) a dimple diameter or dimple diameters of the nearest size or sizes. For example, for a dimple pattern comprised of A dimples having a dimple diameter of 0.125 inches, B dimples having a dimple diameter of 0.145 inches, C dimples having a dimple diameter of 0.150 inches, and D dimples having a dimple diameter of 0.160 inches, the minimum dimple diameter disparity would be 0.005 inches (i.e., the difference between the B dimple diameter and the C dimple diameter), and the maximum dimple diameter disparity would be 0.020 inches (i.e., the difference between the A dimple diameter and the B dimple diameter). In particular, the minimum dimple diameter disparity and the maximum dimple diameter disparity can be used to describe the relative differences between dimple diameters comprising a given pattern. In one aspect, the minimum dimple diameter disparity is at least 0.025 inches. In another aspect, the minimum dimple diameter disparity is at least 0.035 inches. In another aspect, the minimum dimple diameter disparity is at least 0.045 inches. In yet another aspect, the maximum dimple diameter disparity is not greater than 0.120 inches. In another aspect, the maximum dimple diameter disparity is not greater than 0.090 inches. In another aspect, the maximum dimple diameter disparity is not greater than 0.060 inches.

Chord Depth

[0135] The dimples for a golf ball having the aerodynamic properties disclosed herein can each have a specified chord depth. In one aspect, an average chord depth can be measured amongst all of the dimples in a specified dimple pattern. In one aspect, the average chord depth can be at least 0.0040 inches. In one aspect, the average chord depth can be at least 0.0050 inches. In one aspect, the average chord depth can be less than 0.0050 inches. In one aspect, the average chord depth can be less than 0.0042 inches. In other aspects, the average chord depth can be 0.0030 inches-0.0060 inches, or 0.0045 inches-0.0055 inches, or 0.0045 inches-0.0055 inches, or 0.0050 inches-0.0070 inches.

Edge Angle

[0136] The dimples for a golf ball having the aerodynamic properties disclosed herein can have various edge angles. In one aspect, an average edge angle can be measured amongst all of the dimples in a specified dimple pattern. In one aspect, the average edge angle can be 10.0 degrees-16.0 degrees. In another aspect, the average edge angle can be 12.0 degrees-14.0 degrees. In another aspect, the average edge angle can be at least 14.0 degrees. In another aspect, the average edge angle can be at least 15.0 degrees. In another aspect, the average edge angle can be less than 13.0 degrees. In another aspect, the average edge angle can be less than 12.0 degrees.

Dimple Volume

[0137] The golf balls having the aerodynamic properties disclosed herein can have various dimple volumes, i.e., total volume of all of the dimples. In one aspect, the dimple volume can be 0.0315 in.sup.3-0.0425 in.sup.3. In one aspect, the dimple volume the dimple volume can be 0.0325 in.sup.3-0.0355 in.sup.3. In one aspect, the dimple volume can be 0.0350 in.sup.3-0.0385 in.sup.3. In one aspect, the dimple volume can be 0.0365 in.sup.3-0.0400 in.sup.3. In one aspect, the dimple volume can be 0.0390 in.sup.3-0.0425 in.sup.3. In one aspect, the dimple volume can be no greater than 0.0350 in.sup.3. In one aspect, the dimple volume can be no greater than 0.0400 in.sup.3. In one aspect, the dimple volume can be no greater than 0.0450 in.sup.3.

Dimple Plan Shapes and Profiles

[0138] The golf ball plan shapes and/or profiles of the present disclosure can be part of an overall dimple pattern selected to achieve various desired aerodynamic characteristics. Dimple patterns that provide a high percentage of surface coverage are well known in the art. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,562,552, 5,575,477, 5,249,804, and 4,925,193, which are each hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety as if fully set forth herein, disclose geometric patterns for positioning dimples on a golf ball.

[0139] In one aspect, the dimples can have a cross-sectional profile that is spherical, catenary, or any other shape. The cross-sectional profile of the dimples can vary, as one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate. Dimple plan shapes may include but are not limited to circular, elliptical, triangular, square, pentagonal, hexagonal, polygonal, circular periodic, irregular, or any other plan shape known to those skilled in the art. The plan shape of the dimples can vary, as one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate.

[0140] Dimple cross-sectional profiles may include but are not limited to spherical, catenary, conical, cylindrical, elliptical, sinusoidal, functional polynomic, superposed functions, or any other profile known to those skilled in the art. They may also have straight, curved, or sloped edges or sides and may concave or convex. In summation, any type of dimple or protrusion (bramble) known to those skilled in the art may be used with the present invention.

[0141] Underlying pattern geometries may include but are not limited to regular, semi-regular, and irregular polyhedrons, including tetrahedrons, cubes, octahedrons, dodecahedrons, icosahedrons, cuboctahedrons, icosidodecahedrons, snub cubes, triangular dipyramids, quadrilateral dipyramids, pentagonal dipyramids, hexagonal dipyramids, heptagonal dipyramids, and other dipyramids.

Exemplary Dimple Patterns

[0142] The following enumerated exemplary dimple patterns provide specific aerodynamic performance features or characteristics associated with a particular set of dimple pattern parameters. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that various other dimple patterns can be provided that would also have specific aerodynamic performance features or characteristics.

[0143] Unless otherwise specified, the dimple profile is spherical and the dimple plan shape is circular for each of the dimple patterns disclosed below. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that dimple profiles that are non-spherical and/or dimple plan shapes that are non-circular could be used.

Exemplary Dimple Pattern A

[0144] In one aspect, a golf ball according to the present disclosure can have any one or more of the golf ball construction parameters disclosed herein, and also include a cover having dimples having Exemplary Dimple Pattern A, as detailed below in Table 3 which discloses the relevant parameters of the dimples associated with the Exemplary Dimple Pattern A along with the associated aerodynamic characteristics.

[0145] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate an exemplary golf ball including Exemplary Dimple Pattern A. In one aspect, the dimples of Exemplary Dimple Pattern Beach have spherical cross-sectional profiles. In one aspect, the dimples of the Exemplary Dimple Pattern A each have circular plan shapes.

TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 Exemplary Dimple Pattern A Dimple Count 376 Dimple Volume (in.sup.3) 0.0343 Quantity of Dimple Diameters 7 Dimple Diameter A (in) 0.100 Dimple Diameter B (in) 0.120 Dimple Diameter C (in) 0.140 Dimple Diameter D (in) 0.150 Dimple Diameter E (in) 0.160 Dimple Diameter F (in) 0.180 Dimple Diameter G (in) 0.200 Minimum Dimple Diameter (in) 0.100 Maximum Dimple Diameter (in) 0.200 Average Dimple Diameter (in) 0.142 Minimum Dimple Diameter Disparity (in) 0.010 Maximum Dimple Diameter Disparity (in) 0.020 Surface Coverage 70.4% C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 220,000; spin ratio = 0.232 0.070 C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 160,000; spin ratio = 0.234 0.095 C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 120,000; spin ratio = 0.232 0.100 C.sub.D/C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 225,000; spin ratio = 1.619 0.070 C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 240,000; spin ratio = 0.134 0.060 C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 185,000; spin ratio = 0.175 0.105 [00016]$\mathrm{DA}=\underset{160,000}{\overset{225,000}{}}{C}_D\left(\mathrm{Re}\right)\mathrm{dRe}$ 14,689

Exemplary Dimple Pattern B

[0146] In one aspect, a golf ball according to the present disclosure can have any one or more of the golf ball construction parameters disclosed herein, and also include a cover having dimples having Exemplary Dimple Pattern B, as detailed below in Table 4 which discloses the relevant parameters of the dimples associated with the Exemplary Dimple Pattern B along with the associated aerodynamic characteristics.

[0147] FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate an exemplary golf ball including Exemplary Dimple Pattern B. In one aspect, the dimples of Exemplary Dimple Pattern B each have spherical cross-sectional profiles. In one aspect, the dimples of the Exemplary Dimple Pattern B each have circular plan shapes.

TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 Exemplary Dimple Pattern B Dimple Count 380 Dimple Volume (in.sup.3) 0.0354 Quantity of Dimple Diameters 7 Dimple Diameter A (in) 0.110 Dimple Diameter B (in) 0.125 Dimple Diameter C (in) 0.135 Dimple Diameter D (in) 0.145 Dimple Diameter E (in) 0.155 Dimple Diameter F (in) 0.170 Dimple Diameter G (in) 0.195 Minimum Dimple Diameter (in) 0.110 Maximum Dimple Diameter (in) 0.195 Average Dimple Diameter (in) 0.153 Minimum Dimple Diameter Disparity (in) 0.010 Maximum Dimple Diameter Disparity (in) 0.025 Surface Coverage 80.1% C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 220,000; spin ratio = 0.229 0.070 C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 160,000; spin ratio = 0.231 0.095 C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 120,000; spin ratio = 0.227 0.100 C.sub.D/C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 225,000; spin ratio = 1.642 0.070 C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 240,000; spin ratio = 0.131 0.060 C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 185,000; spin ratio = 0.170 0.105 [00017]$\mathrm{DA}=\underset{160,000}{\overset{225,000}{}}{C}_D\left(\mathrm{Re}\right)\mathrm{dRe}$ 14,448

Exemplary Dimple Pattern C

[0148] In one aspect, a golf ball according to the present disclosure can have any one or more of the golf ball construction parameters disclosed herein, and also include a cover having dimples having Exemplary Dimple Pattern C, as detailed below in Table 5 which discloses the relevant parameters of the dimples associated with the Exemplary Dimple Pattern C along with the associated aerodynamic characteristics.

[0149] FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate an exemplary golf ball including Exemplary Dimple Pattern C. In one aspect, the dimples of Exemplary Dimple Pattern C each have spherical cross-sectional profiles. In one aspect, the dimples of the Exemplary Dimple Pattern C each have circular plan shapes.

TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 5 Exemplary Dimple Pattern C Dimple Count 362 Dimple Volume (in.sup.3) 0.0349 Quantity of Dimple Diameters 9 Dimple Diameter A (in) 0.110 Dimple Diameter B (in) 0.120 Dimple Diameter C (in) 0.130 Dimple Diameter D (in) 0.140 Dimple Diameter E (in) 0.150 Dimple Diameter F (in) 0.160 Dimple Diameter G (in) 0.170 Dimple Diameter H (in) 0.185 Dimple Diameter I (in) 0.195 Minimum Dimple Diameter (in) 0.110 Maximum Dimple Diameter (in) 0.195 Average Dimple Diameter (in) 0.153 Minimum Dimple Diameter Disparity (in) 0.010 Maximum Dimple Diameter Disparity (in) 0.015 Surface Coverage 77.1% C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 220,000; spin ratio = 0.231 0.070 C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 160,000; spin ratio = 0.234 0.095 C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 120,000; spin ratio = 0.230 0.100 C.sub.D/C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 225,000; spin ratio = 1.625 0.070 C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 240,000; spin ratio = 0.133 0.060 C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 185,000; spin ratio = 0.174 0.105 [00018]$\mathrm{DA}=\underset{160,000}{\overset{225,000}{}}{C}_D\left(\mathrm{Re}\right)\mathrm{dRe}$ 14,646

Exemplary Dimple Pattern D

[0150] In one aspect, a golf ball according to the present disclosure can have any one or more of the golf ball construction parameters disclosed herein, and also include a cover having dimples having Exemplary Dimple Pattern D, as detailed below in Table 6 which discloses the relevant parameters of the dimples associated with the Exemplary Dimple Pattern D along with the associated aerodynamic characteristics.

[0151] FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate an exemplary golf ball including Exemplary Dimple Pattern D. In one aspect, the dimples of Exemplary Dimple Pattern D each have spherical cross-sectional profiles. In one aspect, the dimples of the Exemplary Dimple Pattern D each have circular plan shapes.

TABLE-US-00006 TABLE 6 Exemplary Dimple Pattern D Dimple Count 324 Dimple Volume (in.sup.3) 0.0386 Quantity of Dimple Diameters 8 Dimple Diameter A (in) 0.120 Dimple Diameter B (in) 0.130 Dimple Diameter C (in) 0.140 Dimple Diameter D (in) 0.160 Dimple Diameter E (in) 0.170 Dimple Diameter F (in) 0.180 Dimple Diameter G (in) 0.200 Dimple Diameter H (in) 0.210 Minimum Dimple Diameter (in) 0.120 Maximum Dimple Diameter (in) 0.210 Average Dimple Diameter (in) 0.168 Minimum Dimple Diameter Disparity (in) 0.010 Maximum Dimple Diameter Disparity (in) 0.020 Surface Coverage 82.4% C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 220,000; spin ratio = 0.231 0.070 C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 160,000; spin ratio = 0.234 0.095 C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 120,000; spin ratio = 0.230 0.100 C.sub.D/C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 225,000; spin ratio = 1.598 0.070 C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 240,000; spin ratio = 0.136 0.060 C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 185,000; spin ratio = 0.176 0.105 [00019]$\mathrm{DA}=\underset{160,000}{\overset{225,000}{}}{C}_D\left(\mathrm{Re}\right)\mathrm{dRe}$ 14,702

Exemplary Dimple Pattern E

[0152] In one aspect, a golf ball according to the present disclosure can have any one or more of the golf ball construction parameters disclosed herein, and also include a cover having dimples having Exemplary Dimple Pattern E, as detailed below in Table 7 which discloses the relevant parameters of the dimples associated with the Exemplary Dimple Pattern E along with the associated aerodynamic characteristics.

[0153] FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate an exemplary golf ball including Exemplary Dimple Pattern E. In one aspect, the dimples of Exemplary Dimple Pattern E each have spherical cross-sectional profiles. In one aspect, the dimples of the Exemplary Dimple Pattern E each have circular plan shapes.

TABLE-US-00007 TABLE 7 Exemplary Dimple Pattern E Dimple Count 288 Dimple Volume (in.sup.3) 0.0384 Quantity of Dimple Diameters 6 Dimple Diameter A (in) 0.155 Dimple Diameter B (in) 0.160 Dimple Diameter C (in) 0.165 Dimple Diameter D (in) 0.175 Dimple Diameter E (in) 0.185 Dimple Diameter F (in) 0.210 Minimum Dimple Diameter (in) 0.155 Maximum Dimple Diameter (in) 0.210 Average Dimple Diameter (in) 0.174 Minimum Dimple Diameter Disparity (in) 0.005 Maximum Dimple Diameter Disparity (in) 0.025 Surface Coverage 78.3% C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 220,000; spin ratio = 0.228 0.070 C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 160,000; spin ratio = 0.232 0.095 C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 120,000; spin ratio = 0.231 0.100 C.sub.D/C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 225,000; spin ratio = 1.538 0.070 C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 240,000; spin ratio = 0.140 0.060 C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 185,000; spin ratio = 0.179 0.105 [00020]$\mathrm{DA}=\underset{160,000}{\overset{225,000}{}}{C}_D\left(\mathrm{Re}\right)\mathrm{dRe}$ 14,320

Exemplary Dimple Pattern F

[0154] In one aspect, a golf ball according to the present disclosure can have any one or more of the golf ball construction parameters disclosed herein, and also include a cover having dimples having Exemplary Dimple Pattern F, as detailed below in Table 8 which discloses the relevant parameters of the dimples associated with the Exemplary Dimple Pattern F along with the associated aerodynamic characteristics.

[0155] FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate an exemplary golf ball including Exemplary Dimple Pattern F. In one aspect, the dimples of Exemplary Dimple Pattern F each have spherical cross-sectional profiles. In one aspect, the dimples of the Exemplary Dimple Pattern F each have circular plan shapes.

TABLE-US-00008 TABLE 8 Exemplary Dimple Pattern F Dimple Count 296 Dimple Volume (in.sup.3) 0.0411 Quantity of Dimple Diameters 9 Dimple Diameter A (in) 0.145 Dimple Diameter B (in) 0.150 Dimple Diameter C (in) 0.165 Dimple Diameter D (in) 0.175 Dimple Diameter E (in) 0.195 Dimple Diameter F (in) 0.215 Dimple Diameter G (in) 0.225 Dimple Diameter H (in) 0.235 Dimple Diameter I (in) 0.240 Minimum Dimple Diameter (in) 0.145 Maximum Dimple Diameter (in) 0.240 Average Dimple Diameter (in) 0.177 Minimum Dimple Diameter Disparity (in) 0.005 Maximum Dimple Diameter Disparity (in) 0.020 Surface Coverage 83.6% C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 220,000; spin ratio = 0.228 0.070 C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 160,000; spin ratio = 0.230 0.095 C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 120,000; spin ratio = 0.227 0.100 C.sub.D/C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 225,000; spin ratio = 1.608 0.070 C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 240,000; spin ratio = 0.134 0.060 C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 185,000; spin ratio = 0.169 0.105 [00021]$\mathrm{DA}=\underset{160,000}{\overset{225,000}{}}{C}_D\left(\mathrm{Re}\right)\mathrm{dRe}$ 14,320

Exemplary Dimple Pattern G

[0156] In one aspect, a golf ball according to the present disclosure can have any one or more of the golf ball construction parameters disclosed herein, and also include a cover having dimples having Exemplary Dimple Pattern G, as detailed below in Table 9 which discloses the relevant parameters of the dimples associated with the Exemplary Dimple Pattern G along with the associated aerodynamic characteristics.

[0157] FIGS. 14A and 14B illustrate an exemplary golf ball including Exemplary Dimple Pattern G. In one aspect, the dimples of Exemplary Dimple Pattern G each have spherical cross-sectional profiles. In one aspect, the dimples of the Exemplary Dimple Pattern G each have circular plan shapes.

TABLE-US-00009 TABLE 9 Exemplary Dimple Pattern G Dimple Count 300 Dimple Volume (in.sup.3) 0.0379 Quantity of Dimple Diameters 9 Dimple Diameter A (in) 0.130 Dimple Diameter B (in) 0.140 Dimple Diameter C (in) 0.150 Dimple Diameter D (in) 0.160 Dimple Diameter E (in) 0.170 Dimple Diameter F (in) 0.180 Dimple Diameter G (in) 0.190 Dimple Diameter H (in) 0.200 Dimple Diameter I (in) 0.210 Minimum Dimple Diameter (in) 0.130 Maximum Dimple Diameter (in) 0.210 Average Dimple Diameter (in) 0.170 Minimum Dimple Diameter Disparity (in) 0.010 Maximum Dimple Diameter Disparity (in) 0.010 Surface Coverage 78.3% C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 220,000; spin ratio = 0.226 0.070 C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 160,000; spin ratio = 0.230 0.095 C.sub.D at Reynolds number = 120,000; spin ratio = 0.229 0.100 C.sub.D/C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 225,000; spin ratio = 1.554 0.070 C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 240,000; spin ratio = 0.137 0.060 C.sub.L at Reynolds number = 185,000; spin ratio = 0.174 0.105 [00022]$\mathrm{DA}=\underset{160,000}{\overset{225,000}{}}{C}_D\left(\mathrm{Re}\right)\mathrm{dRe}$ 14,190

Golf Ball Construction

[0158] The present disclosure may be used with any type of golf ball construction. For instance, the golf ball may have a two-layer construction, a double cover or veneer cover construction or other multi-layer constructions depending on the type of performance desired of the ball. In one aspect, the core of the golf ball can be a single core, dual core, triple core, or a core with more than three layers. In one aspect, the cover can include more than one layer, and/or the casing can include more than one layer. The cover can include one, two, three, or more than three layers. The golf ball can include a casing layer or intermediate layer that can include one, two, three, or more than three layers.

[0159] In one aspect, a golf ball is disclosed that has at least a core and a cover. In one aspect the golf ball can include at least one or more intermediate layers. In one aspect, the core and/or the cover can consist of a single layer or multiple layers. The golf ball can be a two-layer golf ball, a three-layer golf ball, a four-layer golf ball, a five-layer golf ball, a six-layer golf ball, or a more than six-layer golf ball.

[0160] In one embodiment, a golf ball of the present disclosure is a one-layer ball where the core and cover form a single integral layer. In another embodiment, shown in FIG. 4A, a golf ball of the present disclosure is a two-layer ball 10 comprising a core 12 and a single cover layer 14. As shown in FIG. 4B, in one embodiment, the golf ball 20 includes a core 22, an intermediate layer 24, and a cover layer 26. In FIG. 4B, the intermediate layer 24 can be considered an outer core layer, an inner cover layer, a mantle or casing layer, or any other layer disposed between the core 22 and the cover layer 26. Referring to FIG. 4C, in another embodiment, a four-layer golf ball 30 includes an inner core layer 32, an outer core layer 34, an intermediate layer 36, and an outer cover layer 38. In FIG. 4C, the intermediate layer 36 may be considered a casing or mantle layer, or inner cover layer, or any other layer disposed between the outer core layer 34 and the outer cover of the ball 38. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the four-layer golf ball can include any combination of layers, such as: (i) a core layer, two intermediate layers, and a cover layer; or (ii) a core layer, an intermediate layer, and two cover layers, etc. Referring to FIG. 4D, in another version, a five-layer golf ball 40 includes a three-layered core having a center 42, an intermediate core layer 44, an outer core layer 46, an inner cover layer 48, and an outer cover layer 50. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the five-layer golf ball can include any combination of layers, such as: (i) two core layers, two intermediate layers, and a cover layer; or (ii) a core layer, two intermediate layers, and two cover layers; or (iii) a core layer, three intermediate layers, and a cover layer, etc. As exemplified herein, a golf ball in accordance with the present disclosure can include any combination of any number of core layers, intermediate layers, and cover layers.

[0161] The present disclosure may be used with any type of golf ball construction. Examples of golf ball constructions that may be used with the present disclosure include those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,713,801, 5,885,172, 5,919,100, 5,965,669, 5,981,654, 5,981,658, and 6,149,535, which are each incorporated in their entirety as if fully set forth herein. Further exemplary golf ball constructions, including further details on the various layers, materials, dimensions, and other characteristics of golf balls are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,361,102, 7,927,233, 8,834,300, 8,845,456, 9,205,308, and 9,795,836, which are each incorporated in their entirety as if fully set forth herein.

[0162] Examples of these and other types of ball constructions that may be used with the present disclosure include those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,713,801, 5,885,172, 5,919,100, 5,965,669, 5,981,654, 5,981,658, and 6,149,535, which are each incorporated in their entirety as if fully set forth herein. In one aspect, the golf ball can be a two-layer, three-layer, four-layer, five-layer, six-layer, or more than six-layer golf ball.

[0163] Different materials also may be used in the construction of the golf balls made with the present disclosure. For example, the cover of the golf ball may be made of a polyurea material, a polyurethane-urea hybrid material, a polyurea-urethane hybrid material, ionomer material, or any other suitable cover material known to those skilled in the art. Different materials also may be used for forming core and intermediate layers of the golf ball.

[0164] The present invention is not meant to be limited by the material used to form each layer of the golf ball. Particularly suitable materials include, but are not limited to, thermosetting materials, such as polybutadiene, styrene butadiene, isoprene, polyisoprene, and trans-isoprene; thermoplastics, such as ionomer resins, polyamides and polyesters; and thermoplastic and thermosetting polyurethane and polyureas.

[0165] Particularly suitable thermosetting materials, include, but are not limited to, thermosetting rubber compositions comprising a base polymer, an initiator agent, a coagent and/or a curing agent, and optionally one or more of a metal oxide, metal fatty acid or fatty acid, antioxidant, soft and fast agent, fillers, and additives. Suitable base polymers include natural and synthetic rubbers including, but not limited to, polybutadiene, polyisoprene, ethylene propylene rubber (EPR), styrene-butadiene rubber, styrenic block copolymer rubbers (such as SI, SIS, SB, SBS, SIBS, and the like, where S is styrene, I is isobutylene, and B is butadiene), butyl rubber, halobutyl rubber, polystyrene elastomers, polyethylene elastomers, polyurethane elastomers, polyurea elastomers, metallocene-catalyzed elastomers and plastomers, copolymers of isobutylene and para-alkylstyrene, halogenated copolymers of isobutylene and para-alkylstyrene, acrylonitrile butadiene rubber, polychloroprene, alkyl acrylate rubber, chlorinated isoprene rubber, acrylonitrile chlorinated isoprene rubber, polyalkenamers, and combinations of two or more thereof. Suitable initiator agents include organic peroxides, high energy radiation sources capable of generating free radicals, CC initiators, and combinations thereof. Suitable coagents include, but are not limited to, metal salts of unsaturated carboxylic acids; unsaturated vinyl compounds and polyfunctional monomers (e.g., trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate); phenylene bismaleimide; and combinations thereof. Suitable curing agents include, but are not limited to, sulfur; N-oxydiethylene 2-benzothiazole sulfenamide; N,N-di-ortho-tolylguanidine; bismuth dimethyldithiocarbamate; N-cyclohexyl 2-benzothiazole sulfenamide; N,N-diphenylguanidine; 4-morpholinyl-2-benzothiazole disulfide; dipentamethylenethiuram hexasulfide; thiuram disulfides; mercaptobenzothiazoles; sulfenamides; dithiocarbamates; thiuram sulfides; guanidines; thioureas; xanthates; dithiophosphates; aldehyde-amines; dibenzothiazyl disulfide; tetraethylthiuram disulfide; tetrabutylthiuram disulfide; and combinations thereof. Suitable types and amounts of base polymer, initiator agent, coagent, filler, and additives are more fully described in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,566,483, 6,695,718, 6,939,907, 7,041,721 and 7,138,460, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. Particularly suitable diene rubber compositions are further disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0093318, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

[0166] Particularly suitable materials also include, but are not limited to: a) thermosetting polyurethanes, polyureas, and hybrids of polyurethane and polyurea; b) thermoplastic polyurethanes, polyureas, and hybrids of polyurethane and polyurea, including, for example, Estane TPU, commercially available from the Lubrizol Corporation; c) E/X- and E/X/Y-type ionomers, wherein E is an olefin (e.g., ethylene), X is a carboxylic acid (e.g., acrylic, methacrylic, crotonic, maleic, fumaric, or itaconic acid), and Y is a softening comonomer (e.g., vinyl esters of aliphatic carboxylic acids wherein the acid has from 2 to 10 carbons, alkyl ethers wherein the alkyl group has from 1 to 10 carbons, and alkyl alkylacrylates such as alkyl methacrylates wherein the alkyl group has from 1 to 10 carbons), such as Surlyn ionomer resins and HPF 1000 and HPF 2000, commercially available from the Dow Chemical Company, Iotek ionomers, commercially available from ExxonMobil Chemical Company, Amplify IO ionomers of ethylene acrylic acid copolymers, commercially available from the Dow Chemical Company, and Clarix ionomer resins, commercially available from A. Schulman Inc.; d) polyisoprene; e) polyoctenamer, such as Vestenamer polyoctenamer, commercially available from Evonik Industries; f) polyethylene, including, for example, low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, and high density polyethylene; polypropylene; g) rubber-toughened olefin polymers; non-ionomeric acid copolymers, e.g., (meth)acrylic acid, which do not become part of an ionomeric copolymer; h) plastomers; i) flexomers; j) styrene/butadiene/styrene block copolymers; k) styrene/ethylene-butylene/styrene block copolymers: l) polybutadiene; m) styrene butadiene rubber; n) ethylene propylene rubber; o) ethylene propylene diene rubber; p) dynamically vulcanized elastomers; q) ethylene vinyl acetates; r) ethylene (meth) acrylates; s) polyvinyl chloride resins; t) polyamides, amide-ester elastomers, and copolymers of ionomer and polyamide, including, for example, Pebax thermoplastic polyether and polyester amides, commercially available from Arkema Inc; u) crosslinked trans-polyisoprene; v) polyester-based thermoplastic elastomers, such as Hytrel polyester elastomers, commercially available from E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, and Riteflex polyester elastomers, commercially available from Ticona; w) polyurethane-based thermoplastic elastomers, such as Elastollan polyurethanes, commercially available from BASF; x) synthetic or natural vulcanized rubber; y) and combinations thereof.

[0167] In some embodiments, the core rubber formulations include a base rubber, a hardening agent, a cross-linking agent, and a free radical initiator. It should be understood, however, that not all core rubber formulations that may be used in a core component or element necessarily requires all of these elements. Further, rubber formulations may also optionally include additives, such as one or more of a metal oxide, metal fatty acid or fatty acid, antioxidant, soft and fast agent, or fillers. Concentrations of components are in parts per hundred (phr) unless otherwise indicated. As used herein, the term, parts per hundred, also known as phr or pph is defined as the number of parts by weight of a particular component present in a mixture, relative to 100 parts by weight of the polymer component. Mathematically, this can be expressed as the weight of an ingredient divided by the total weight of the polymer, multiplied by a factor of 100.

[0168] The core rubber formulations of the present disclosure can include a base rubber. In some embodiments, the base rubber may include natural and synthetic rubbers and combinations of two or more thereof. Examples of natural and synthetic rubbers suitable for use as the base rubber include, but are not limited to, polybutadiene, polyisoprene, ethylene propylene rubber (EPR), ethylene-propylene-diene (EPDM) rubber, grafted EPDM rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, styrenic block copolymer rubbers (such as SI, SIS, SB, SBS, SIBS, and the like, where S is styrene, I is isobutylene, and B is butadiene), polyalkenamers such as, for example, polyoctenamer, butyl rubber, halobutyl rubber, polystyrene elastomers, polyethylene elastomers, polyurethane elastomers, polyurea elastomers, metallocene-catalyzed elastomers and plastomers, copolymers of isobutylene and p-alkylstyrene, halogenated copolymers of isobutylene and p-alkylstyrene, copolymers of butadiene with acrylonitrile, polychloroprene, alkyl acrylate rubber, chlorinated isoprene rubber, acrylonitrile chlorinated isoprene rubber, and combinations of two or more thereof.

[0169] For example, the core may be formed from a rubber formulation that includes polybutadiene as the base rubber. Polybutadiene is a homopolymer of 1,3-butadiene. The double bonds in the 1,3-butadiene monomer are attacked by catalysts to grow the polymer chain and form a polybutadiene polymer having a desired molecular weight. Any suitable catalyst may be used to synthesize the polybutadiene rubber depending upon the desired properties. In one embodiment, a transition metal complex (for example, neodymium, nickel, or cobalt) or an alkyl metal such as alkyl lithium 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. For example, the polybutadiene rubber may have a 1,4 cis-bond content of at least 40 percent. In another embodiment, the polybutadiene rubber has a 1,4 cis-bond content of greater than 80 percent. In still another embodiment, the polybutadiene rubber has a 1,4 cis-bond content of greater than 90 percent. In general, polybutadiene rubbers having a high 1,4 cis-bond content have high tensile strength and rebound.

[0170] Examples of commercially available polybutadiene rubbers that can be used in rubber formulations in accordance with the present disclosure, 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; 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.

[0171] In another embodiment, the core is formed from a rubber formulation including butyl rubber. Butyl rubber is an elastomeric copolymer of isobutylene and isoprene. Butyl rubber is an amorphous, non-polar polymer with good oxidative and thermal stability, good permanent flexibility, and high moisture and gas resistance. Generally, butyl rubber includes copolymers of about 70 percent to about 99.5 percent by weight of an isoolefin, which has about 4 to 7 carbon atoms, for example, isobutylene, and about 0.5 percent to about 30 percent by weight of a conjugated multiolefin, which has about 4 to 14 carbon atoms, for example, isoprene. The resulting copolymer contains about 85 percent to about 99.8 percent by weight of combined isoolefin and about 0.2 percent to about 15 percent of combined multiolefin. A commercially available butyl rubber suitable for use in rubber formulations in accordance with the present disclosure includes Bayer Butyl 301 manufactured by Bayer AG.

[0172] The rubber formulations may include a combination of two or more of the above-described rubbers as the base rubber. In some embodiments, the rubber formulation of the present disclosure includes a blend of different polybutadiene rubbers. In this embodiment, the rubber formulation may include a blend of a first polybutadiene rubber and a second polybutadiene rubber in a ratio of about 5:95 to about 95:5. For example, the rubber formulation may include a first polybutadiene rubber and a second polybutadiene rubber in a ratio of about 10:90 to about 90:10 or about 15:85 to about 85:15 or about 20:80 to about 80:20 or about 30:70 to about 70:30 or about 40:60 to about 60:40. In other embodiments, the rubber formulation may include a blend of more than two polybutadiene rubbers or a blend of polybutadiene rubber(s) with any of the other elastomers discussed above.

[0173] In other embodiments, the rubber formulation used to form the core includes a blend of polybutadiene and butyl rubber. In this embodiment, the rubber formulation may include a blend of polybutadiene and butyl rubber in a ratio of about 95 parts polybutadiene to 5 parts butyl rubber, or 90 parts polybutadiene to 10 parts butyl rubber, or 85 parts polybutadiene to 15 parts butyl rubber, or 80 parts polybutadiene to 20 parts butyl rubber. In other examples, the rubber formulation may include a blend of butyl and polybutadiene rubber in a ratio of about 10:90 to about 90:10 or about 20:80 to about 80:20 or about 30:70 to about 70:30 or about 40:60 to about 60:40. In other embodiments, the rubber formulation may include polybutadiene and/or butyl rubber in a blend with any of the other elastomers discussed above.

[0174] In further embodiments, the rubber formulation used to form the core includes a blend of polybutadiene and EPDM rubber or grafted EPDM rubber as the base rubber. In still further embodiments, the rubber formulations may include a combination of polybutadiene rubber and EPDM rubber as the base rubber. In this embodiment, the EPDM may be included in the rubber formulation in an amount of about 0.1 to about 20 or about 1 to about 15 or about 3 to about 10 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. For example, EPDM may be included in the rubber formulation in an amount of about 5 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In still further embodiments, the core formulations may combine EPDM rubber and two or more different types of polybutadiene rubber, such as two or more different types of high cis-1,4 polybutadiene, as the base rubber.

[0175] The rubber formulations include the base rubber in an amount of 100 phr. That is, when more than one rubber component is used in the rubber formulation as the base rubber, the sum of the amounts of each rubber component should total 100 phr. In some embodiments, the rubber formulations include polybutadiene rubber as the base rubber in an amount of 100 phr. In other embodiments, the rubber formulations include polybutadiene rubber and a second rubber component. In this embodiment, the polybutadiene rubber may be used in an amount of about 80 to about 99.9 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber and the second rubber component may be used in an amount of about 0.1 to about 20 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In further embodiments, the polybutadiene rubber may be used in an amount of about 85 to about 99 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber and the second rubber component may be used in an amount of about 1 to about 15 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In yet other embodiments, the polybutadiene rubber may be used in an amount of about 90 to about 97 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber and the second rubber component may be used in an amount of about 3 to about 10 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In still further embodiments, the polybutadiene rubber may be used in an amount of about 94 to about 96 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber and the second rubber component may be used in an amount of about 4 to about 6 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In some embodiments, the second rubber component is EPDM rubber.

[0176] The base rubber may be used in the rubber formulation in an amount of at least about 5 percent by weight based on total weight of the rubber formulation. In some embodiments, the base rubber is included in the rubber formulation in an amount within a range having a lower limit of about 10 percent or 20 percent or 30 percent or 40 percent or 50 percent or 55 percent and an upper limit of about 60 percent or 70 percent or 80 percent or 90 percent or 95 percent or 100 percent. For example, the base rubber may be present in the rubber formulation in an amount of about 30 percent to about 80 percent by weight based on the total weight of the rubber formulation. In another example, the rubber formulation includes about 40 percent to about 70 percent base rubber based on the total weight of the rubber formulation.

[0177] The rubber formulations of the present disclosure can include a hardening agent. Without being bound to any particular theory, the hardening agent may affect the hardness of the core and the hardness gradient across the core. Suitable hardening agents include, but are not limited to, benzoic compounds comprising a nitro functional group and one of a hydroxyl, amino, or sulfhydryl functional group. Nonlimiting examples of hardening agents include nitrophenol, nitroaniline, and nitrothiophenol. Different isomers of the hardening agent may be used such as, for example, 2-nitrophenol, 3-nitrophenol, 4-nitrophenol, 2-nitroaniline, 3-nitroaniline, 4-nitroaniline, 2-nitrothiophenol, 3-nitrothiophenol, 4-nitrothiophenol, and combinations thereof. Without being bound by any particular theory, different isomers of the hardening agent may affect the hardness of the core differently and produce different hardness gradients across the core. Some hardening agents, for example nitrophenol, may be advantageous because they are safe and/or easy to handle during manufacturing.

[0178] The hardening agent may be included in the rubber formulation in varying amounts depending on the desired characteristics of the golf ball core. For example, the hardening agent may be used in an amount of 0.01 to about 3 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In one embodiment, the rubber formulation of the core includes about 0.05 to about 1.5 or about 0.1 to about 1 or about 0.1 to 0.5 parts by weight hardening agent per 100 parts of the total rubber. In another embodiment, the hardening agent is included in the rubber formulation in an amount of about 0.2 to about 0.7 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In still another embodiment, the rubber formulation includes about 0.05 to about 0.3 or 0.2 to about 0.4 or about 0.3 to about 0.5 or about 0.4 to about 0.6 parts by weight hardening agent per 100 parts of the total rubber.

[0179] In some respects, the amount of hardening agent in the rubber formulation required to produce the desired hardness gradient may differ based on the compound, and even the particular isomer of the compound, used as the hardening agent. For example, when the rubber formulation includes 2-nitrophenol, which has a nitro functional group ortho to a hydroxyl functional group, the hardening agent may be used in an amount of about 0.1 to about 0.3 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber to achieve the desired hardness gradient. In other embodiments, when the rubber formulation includes 3-nitrophenol, which has a nitro functional group meta to a hydroxyl functional group, the hardening agent may be used in an amount of about 0.2 to about 0.4 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber to achieve the desired hardness gradient. In further embodiments, when the rubber formulation includes 4-nitrophenol, which has a nitro functional group para to a hydroxyl functional group, the hardening agent may be used in an amount of about 0.3 to about 0.5 parts by weight hardening agent per 100 parts of the total rubber to achieve the desired hardness gradient. Without being bound by any particular theory, the relative positions of the functional groups on disubstituted benzoic hardening agents are believed to influence the effectiveness of the compound as a hardening agent. Accordingly, the amount of hardening agent needed to produce a desired hardness gradient may change when different isomers within a class of compounds are used.

[0180] The rubber formulations further may include a reactive cross-linking co-agent. Suitable co-agents include, but are not limited to, metal salts of unsaturated carboxylic acids having from 3 to 8 carbon atoms; unsaturated vinyl compounds and polyfunctional monomers (e.g., trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate); phenylene bismaleimide; and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the co-agent is one or more metal salts of acrylates, diacrylates, methacrylates, and dimethacrylates, wherein the metal is selected from magnesium, calcium, zinc, aluminum, lithium, and nickel. In another embodiment, the co-agent includes one or more zinc salts of acrylates, diacrylates, methacrylates, and dimethacrylates. For example, the co-agent may be zinc diacrylate (ZDA). In another embodiment, the co-agent may be zinc dimethacrylate (ZDMA). An example of a commercially available zinc diacrylate includes Dymalink 526 manufactured by Cray Valley.

[0181] The co-agent may be included in the rubber formulation in varying amounts depending on the desired characteristics of the golf ball core. For example, the co-agent may be used in an amount of about 5 to about 50 or about 10 to about 45 or about 15 to about 40 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In one embodiment, the rubber formulation of the core includes about 35 to about 48 parts by weight co-agent per 100 parts of the total rubber. In another embodiment, the rubber formulation includes about 38 to about 45 or about 39 to about 42 parts by weight co-agent per 100 parts of total rubber. In another embodiment, the co-agent is included in the rubber formulation of the core in an amount of about 29 to about 37 or about 31 to about 35 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In still another embodiment, the rubber formulation includes about 25 to about 33 or about 27 to about 31 parts by weight co-agent per 100 parts of the total rubber.

[0182] In some respects, the amount of co-agent in the rubber formulation may be altered based on the class of compounds, and the particular isomer within a class of compounds, used as the hardening agent. For example, when the rubber formulation includes 2-nitrophenol, the co-agent may be included in the rubber formulation in amount from about 37 to about 43 or about 39 to about 41 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In another example, when the rubber formulation includes 3-nitrophenol, the co-agent may be included in the rubber formulation in amount from about 30 to about 36 or about 32 to about 34 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In yet another example, when the rubber formulation includes 4-nitrophenol, the co-agent may be included in the rubber formulation in amount from about 26 to about 32 or about 28 to about 30 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. Without being bound to any particular theory, the concentration of co-agent may be altered to achieve the desired compression of the golf ball core when different hardening agents are used.

[0183] The core formulations may include a free radical initiator selected from an organic peroxide, a high energy radiation source capable of generating free radicals, or a combination thereof. Suitable organic peroxides include, but are not limited to, 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. In a particular embodiment, the free radical initiator is dicumyl peroxide, including, but not limited to Perkadox BD-FF, commercially available from Akzo Nobel. In other embodiments, the free radical initiator is dimethyl terbutyl peroxide, including, but not limited to Trigonox 101-50D-PD, commercially available from Nouryon.

[0184] Free radical initiators may be present in the rubber formulation in an amount of at least 0.05 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber, or an amount within the range having a lower limit of 0.05 parts or 0.1 parts or 1 part or 1.25 parts or 1.5 parts or 2.5 parts or 5 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber, and an upper limit of 2.5 parts or 3 parts or 5 parts or 6 parts or 10 parts or 15 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. For example, the rubber formulation may include peroxide free radical initiators in an amount of about 0.1 to about 10 or about 0.5 to about 6 or about 1 to about 5 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In another example, the rubber formulation may include peroxide free radical initiators in an amount of about 0.5 to about 2 or about 0.7 to about 1.8 or about 0.8 to about 1.2 or about 1.3 to about 1.7 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In yet another example, the rubber formulation may include peroxide free radical initiators in an amount of about 1.5 to about 3 or about 1.7 to about 2.8 or about 1.8 to about 2.2 or about 2.3 to about 2.7 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber.

[0185] Radical scavengers such as a halogenated organosulfur, organic disulfide, or inorganic disulfide compounds may also be added to the rubber formulation. In one embodiment, a halogenated organosulfur compound included in the rubber formulation includes, but is not limited to, pentachlorothiophenol (PCTP) and salts of PCTP such as zinc pentachlorothiophenol (ZnPCTP). In another embodiment, ditolyl disulfide, diphenyl disulfide, dixylyl disulfide, 2-nitroresorcinol, and combinations thereof are added to the rubber formulation. An example of a commercially available radical scavenger includes Rhenogran Zn-PTCP-72 manufactured by Rheine Chemie. The radical scavenger may be included in the rubber formulation in an amount of about 0.3 to about 1 part by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In one embodiment, the rubber formulation may include about 0.4 to about 0.9 parts by weight radical scavenger per 100 parts of the total rubber. In another embodiment, the rubber formulation may include about 0.5 to about 0.8 parts by weight radical scavenger per 100 parts of the total rubber.

[0186] The rubber formulation may also include filler(s). Suitable non-limiting examples of fillers include carbon black, clay and nanoclay particles, talc, glass (e.g., glass flake, milled glass, and microglass), mica and mica-based pigments (e.g., Iriodin pearl luster pigments from The Merck Group), and combinations thereof. Metal oxide and metal sulfate fillers are also contemplated for inclusion in the rubber formulation. Suitable metal fillers include, for example, particulate, powders, flakes, and fibers of copper, steel, brass, tungsten, titanium, aluminum, magnesium, molybdenum, cobalt, nickel, iron, lead, tin, zinc, barium, bismuth, bronze, silver, gold, and platinum, and alloys and combinations thereof. Suitable metal oxide fillers include, for example, zinc oxide, iron oxide, aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, magnesium oxide, and zirconium oxide. Suitable metal sulfate fillers include, for example, barium sulfate and strontium sulfate. When included, the fillers may be in an amount of about 1 to about 25 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In one embodiment, the rubber formulation includes at least one filler in an amount of about 5 to about 20 or about 8 to about 15 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In another embodiment, the rubber formulation includes at least one filler in an amount of about 8 to about 14 or about 10 to about 12 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In yet another embodiment, the rubber formulation includes at least one filler in an amount of about 10 to about 17 or about 12 to about 15 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In yet another embodiment, the rubber formulation includes at least one filler in an amount of about 10 to about 16 or about 12 to about 15 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In a further embodiment, the rubber formulation includes at least one filler in an amount of about 12 to about 18 or about 14 to about 16 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. An example of a commercially available barium sulfate filler includes PolyWate 325 manufactured by Cimbar Performance Minerals.

[0187] In some aspects, the amount of filler in the rubber formulation may be altered based on the compound, and the particular isomer of the compound, used as the hardening agent. For example, when the rubber formulation includes 2-nitrophenol, at least one filler may be included in the rubber formulation in amount from about 9 to about 13 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In another example, when the rubber formulation includes 3-nitrophenol, the filler may be included in the rubber formulation in amount from about 11 to about 16 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber. In yet another example, when the rubber formulation includes 4-nitrophenol, the filler may be included in the rubber formulation in amount from about 13 to about 17 parts by weight per 100 parts of the total rubber.

[0188] In some embodiments, more than one type of filler may be included in the rubber formulation. For example, the rubber formulation may include a first filler in an amount from about 5 to about 20 or about 8 to about 17 parts by weight per 100 parts total rubber and a second filler in an amount from about 1 to about 10 or about 3 to about 7 parts by weight per 100 parts total rubber. In another example, the rubber formulation may include a first filler in an amount from about 7 to about 13 or about 9 to about 12 parts by weight per 100 parts total rubber and a second filler in an amount from about 2 to about 8 or about 4 to about 6 parts by weight per 100 parts total rubber. In yet another example, the rubber formulation may include a first filler in an amount from about 10 to about 15 or about 13 to about 14 parts by weight per 100 parts total rubber and a second filler in an amount from about 2 to about 9 or about 3 to about 7 parts by weight per 100 parts total rubber. In a further example, the rubber formulation may include a first filler in an amount from about 10 to about 15 or about 13 to about 14 parts by weight per 100 parts total rubber and a second filler in an amount from about 13 to about 18 or about 14 to about 16 parts by weight per 100 parts total rubber.

[0189] Antioxidants, processing aids, accelerators (for example, tetra methylthiuram), dyes and pigments, wetting agents, surfactants, plasticizers, coloring agents, fluorescent agents, chemical blowing and foaming agents, defoaming agents, stabilizers, softening agents, impact modifiers, antiozonants, as well as other additives known in the art, may also be added to the rubber formulation. Examples of suitable processing aids include, but are not limited to, high molecular weight organic acids and salts thereof. Suitable organic acids are aliphatic organic acids, aromatic organic acids, saturated mono-functional organic acids, unsaturated monofunctional organic acids, multi-unsaturated mono-functional organic acids, and dimerized derivatives thereof. In one embodiment, the organic acids include, but are not limited to, caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, lauric acid, stearic acid, behenic acid, erucic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, myristic acid, benzoic acid, palmitic acid, phenylacetic acid, naphthalenoic acid, and dimerized derivatives thereof. The salts of organic acids 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.

[0190] The base rubber, hardening agent, cross-linking agent, free radical initiator, fillers, and any other materials used in forming the core, in accordance with the present disclosure, may be combined to form a mixture by any type of mixing known to one of ordinary skill in the art. Suitable types of mixing include single pass and multi-pass mixing, and the like. A single pass mixing process where ingredients are added sequentially is preferred, as this type of mixing tends to increase efficiency and reduce costs for the process. In embodiments where a free-radical initiator is used, it may be desirable to combine the hardening agent into the rubber formulation prior to adding the free-radical initiator.

[0191] The rubber formulation may be cured using conventional curing processes. Non-limiting examples of curing processes suitable for use in accordance with the present disclosure include peroxide-curing, sulfur-curing, high-energy radiation, and combinations thereof.

[0192] Compositions comprising an ionomer or a blend of two or more E/X- and E/X/Y-type ionomers are particularly suitable intermediate and cover layer materials. Preferred E/X- and E/X/Y-type ionomeric cover compositions include: (a) a composition comprising a high acid ionomer (i.e., having an acid content of greater than 16 wt %), such as Surlyn 8150; (b) a composition comprising a high acid ionomer and a maleic anhydride-grafted non-ionomeric polymer (e.g., Fusabond functionalized polymers). A particularly preferred blend of high acid ionomer and maleic anhydride-grafted polymer is a 84 wt %/16 wt % blend of Surlyn 8150 and Fusabond. Blends of high acid ionomers with maleic anhydride-grafted polymers are further disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,992,135 and 6,677,401, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference; (c) a composition comprising a 50/45/5 blend of Surlyn 8940/Surlyn 9650/Nucrel 960, preferably having a material hardness of from 80 to 85 Shore C; (d) a composition comprising a 50/25/25 blend of Surlyn 8940/Surlyn 9650/Surlyn 9910, preferably having a material hardness of about 90 Shore C; (e) a composition comprising a 50/50 blend of Surlyn 8940/Surlyn 9650, preferably having a material hardness of about 86 Shore C; (f) a composition comprising a blend of Surlyn 7940/Surlyn 8940, optionally including a melt flow modifier; (g) a composition comprising a blend of a first high acid ionomer and a second high acid ionomer, wherein the first high acid ionomer is neutralized with a different cation than the second high acid ionomer (e.g., 50/50 blend of Surlyn 8150 and Surlyn 9120), optionally including one or more melt flow modifiers such as an ionomer, ethylene-acid copolymer or ester terpolymer; and (h) a composition comprising a blend of a first high acid ionomer and a second high acid ionomer, wherein the first high acid ionomer is neutralized with a different cation than the second high acid ionomer, and from 0 to 10 wt % of an ethylene/acid/ester ionomer wherein the ethylene/acid/ester ionomer is neutralized with the same cation as either the first high acid ionomer or the second high acid ionomer or a different cation than the first and second high acid ionomers (e.g., a blend of 40-50 wt % Surlyn 8140 or 8150, 40-50 wt % Surlyn 9120, and 0-10 wt % Surlyn 6320).

[0193] Surlyn 8150, Surlyn 8940, and Surlyn 8140 are different grades of E/MAA copolymer in which the acid groups have been partially neutralized with sodium ions. Surlyn 9650, Surlyn 9910, and Surlyn 9120 are different grades of E/MAA copolymer in which the acid groups have been partially neutralized with zinc ions. Surlyn 7940 is an E/MAA copolymer in which the acid groups have been partially neutralized with lithium ions. Surlyn 6320 is a very low modulus magnesium ionomer with a medium acid content. Nucrel 960 is an E/MAA copolymer resin nominally made with 15 wt % methacrylic acid. Surlyn ionomers, Fusabond polymers, and Nucrel copolymers are commercially available from The Dow Chemical Company.

[0194] Suitable E/X- and E/X/Y-type ionomeric cover materials are further disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,653,382, 6,756,436, 6,894,098, 6,919,393, and 6,953,820, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0195] Suitable polyurethanes, polyureas, and blends and hybrids of polyurethane/polyurea are further disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,334,673, 5,484,870, 6,506,851, 6,756,436, 6,835,794, 6,867,279, 6,960,630, and 7,105,623; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0011868; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2021/0093929; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0117923; and U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,865,052, 6,734,273, 8,026,334, and 8,034,873; the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

[0196] Suitable UV absorbers that are optionally included in cover layer compositions are further disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,156,405, 5,840,788, and 7,722,483; the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

[0197] Dimensions of each golf ball layer, i.e., thickness/diameter, may vary depending on the desired properties.

Coefficient of Restitution

[0198] The Coefficient of Restitution or COR of a golf ball refers to the ratio of a ball's rebound velocity to its initial incoming velocity when the ball is fired out of an air cannon into a rigid vertical plate. The COR is determined according to a known procedure, wherein a golf ball or golf ball subassembly (for example, a golf ball core) is fired from an air cannon at two given velocities and a velocity of 125 ft/s is used for the calculations. Ballistic light screens are located between the air cannon and steel plate at a fixed distance to measure ball velocity. As the ball travels toward the steel plate, it activates each light screen and the ball's time period at each light screen is measured. This provides an incoming transit time period which is inversely proportional to the ball's incoming velocity. The ball makes impact with the steel plate and rebounds so it passes again through the light screens. As the rebounding ball activates each light screen, the ball's time period at each screen is measured. This provides an outgoing transit time period which is inversely proportional to the ball's outgoing velocity. The COR is then calculated as the ratio of the ball's outgoing transit time period to the ball's incoming transit time period (COR=V.sub.out/V.sub.in=T.sub.in/T.sub.out).

[0199] In one aspect, the COR of the golf ball can be 0.775-0.815. In one aspect, the COR of the golf ball can be 0.760-0.795. In one aspect, the COR of the golf ball can be 0.755-0.785. In one aspect, the COR of the golf ball can be 0.710-0.785. In one aspect, the COR of the golf ball can be less than 0.800. In one aspect, the COR of the golf ball can be less than 0.780. In one aspect, the COR of the golf ball can be less than 0.760. In one aspect, the COR of the golf ball can be 0.785-0.815. In one aspect, the COR of the golf ball can be 0.770-0.815. In one aspect, the COR of the golf ball can be 0.740-0.810. In one aspect, the COR of the golf ball can be 0.710-0.780. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the coefficient of restitution can vary.

Compression

[0200] As disclosed in Jeff Dalton's Compression by Any Other Name, Science and Golf IV, Proceedings of the World Scientific Congress of Golf (Eric Thain ed., Routledge, 2002) (J. Dalton), 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. For purposes of the present invention, compression refers to Soft Center Deflection Index (SCDI). The SCDI is a program change for the Dynamic Compression Machine (DCM) that allows determination of the pounds required to deflect a core 10% of its diameter. The DCM is an apparatus that applies a load to a core or ball and measures the number of inches the core or ball is deflected at measured loads. A crude load/deflection curve is generated that is fit to the Atti compression scale that results in a number being generated that represents an Atti compression. The DCM does this via a load cell attached to the bottom of a hydraulic cylinder that is triggered pneumatically at a fixed rate towards a stationary core. Attached to the cylinder is an LVDT that measures the distance the cylinder travels during the testing timeframe. A software-based logarithmic algorithm ensures that measurements are not taken until at least five successive increases in load are detected during the initial phase of the test. The SCDI is a slight variation of this set up. The hardware is the same, but the software and output has changed. With the SCDI, the interest is in the pounds of force required to deflect a core x amount of inches. That amount of deflection is 10% percent of the core diameter. The DCM is triggered, the cylinder deflects the core by 10% of its diameter, and the DCM reports back the pounds of force required (as measured from the attached load cell) to deflect the core by that amount. The value displayed is a single number in units of pounds. As used herein the term compression refers to DCM compression.

[0201] In one aspect, a golf ball having any one or more of the aerodynamic characteristics disclosed herein can have a compression of less than 60. In one aspect, the golf ball can have a compression of 60-80. In one aspect, the golf ball can have a compression of 80-100. In one aspect, the golf ball can have a compression of 75-95. In one aspect, the golf ball can have a compression of 50-75. In one aspect, the golf ball can have a compression of 95-110. In one aspect, the golf ball can have a compression of greater than 100. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the compression can vary.

Initial Velocity

[0202] In one aspect, a golf ball having any one or more of the aerodynamic characteristics disclosed herein can have an initial velocity (as measured according to the USGA initial velocity testing methods or calculated using a COR to USGA IV correlation) of no greater than 255 feet/second. In one aspect, the golf ball can have an initial velocity of no greater than 252 feet/second. In one aspect, the golf ball can have an initial velocity of no greater than 250 feet/second. In one aspect, the golf ball can have an initial velocity of no greater than 248 feet/second. In one aspect, the golf ball can have an initial velocity of 238-255 feet/second. In one aspect, the golf ball can have an initial velocity of 238-252 feet/second. In one aspect, the golf ball can have an initial velocity of 238-248 feet/second. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the initial velocity can vary.

Exemplary Golf Balls

[0203] In one aspect, any one of the dimple patterns, aerodynamic performance parameters (i.e., the presently disclosed C.sub.D, C.sub.L, and/or DA values), and/or dimple parameter features can be applied to a golf ball having various golf ball constructions. Exemplary golf ball constructions can include relatively slower constructions as compared to modern, high-performance golf ball constructions, such as golf balls having a compression of less than 60 and a COR of 0.785-0.815; or a golf ball having a compression of at least 60 and less than 80 and a COR of 0.770-0.815; or a golf ball having a compression of at least 80 and less than 100 and a COR of 0.740-0.810; or a golf ball having a compression of at least 100 and a COR of 0.710-0.780. Various other COR, initial velocity, and other golf ball parameters are disclosed herein.

[0204] Exemplary golf ball constructions can include a core (such as a single layer core or dual layer core), a casing or intermediate layer, and a cover layer. In one aspect, the core can have a diameter of at least 1.500 inches, or at least 1.525 inches, or at least 1.545 inches. In another aspect, the core can have a diameter of at least 1.510 inches, or at least 1.530 inches, or at least 1.550 inches. In another aspect, the core can have a diameter of at least 1.560 inches, or 1.570 inches, or 1.580 inches or 1.600 inches. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the size of the core can vary.

[0205] The core can have a COR of less than 0.760, or less than 0.750, in some aspects. The core COR can be less than 0.770, in another aspect. In one aspect, the core COR can be less than 0.775. In one aspect, the core COR can be less than 0.780. In one aspect, the core COR can be less than 0.785. In one aspect, the core COR can be less than 0.790. In one aspect, the core COR can be less than 0.800. In one aspect, the core COR can be 0.750-0.770. In one aspect, the core COR can be 0.760-0.780. In one aspect, the core COR can be 0.730-0.760. In one aspect, the core COR can be 0.700-0.740. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the core COR can vary.

[0206] In one aspect, the core can have a positive hardness gradient, as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art and as disclosed or defined in US Patent Pub. 2024/0173595, which is commonly assigned to Acushnet Company and is incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein. For example, the core for the golf ball disclosed herein can have a hardness gradient of at least 5 Shore C, or at least 10 Shore C, or at least 15 Shore C, or at least 20 Shore C, or at least 25 Shore C, or at least 30 Shore C. Alternatively, the core can have a negative or zero hardness gradient, in other aspects.

[0207] In one aspect, the casing layer can have a thickness of 0.025 inches-0.035 inches. In one aspect, the casing layer can have a thickness of less than 0.025 inches. In one aspect, the casing layer can have a thickness of greater than 0.035 inches. In one aspect, the casing layer can have a thickness of at least 0.035 inches, or 0.040 inches, or 0.045 inches, or 0.050 inches, or 0.055 inches. In one aspect, the casing layer can be formed from a material having a high flexural modulus (as measured by ASTM D790), such as at least 60,000 psi, or at least 65,000 psi, or at least 70,000 psi, or at least 75,000 psi. In one aspect, the cased core can have a COR of less than 0.760, or less than 0.770, or less than 0.780, or less than 0.790, or less than 0.800, or less than 0.810, or less than 0.820.

[0208] In one aspect, the golf ball can include a cased core having a compression of less than 70, or less than 75, or less than 80, or less than 85, or less than 90, or less than 95, or less than 100, or less than 105, or less than 110. In one aspect, the cased core can have a compression of 50-95. In one aspect, the cased core can have a compression of 60-80. In one aspect, the cased core can have a compression of 90-110.

[0209] In one aspect, the cover layer can have a thickness of 0.025 inches-0.035 inches. In one aspect, the cover layer can have a thickness that is less than 0.025 inches. In one aspect, the cover layer can have a thickness of greater than 0.035 inches. In one aspect, the cover layer can have a thickness of at least 0.025 inches, or 0.030 inches, or 0.035 inches, or 0.050 inches, or 0.060 inches. In one aspect, the cover layer has a thickness of 0.020 inches-0.070 inches.

[0210] In one embodiment exemplary golf balls disclosed herein have a relationship between golf ball compression and golf ball COR such that: [0211] if the compression is less than 60, then the COR is between 0.785 and 0.815; [0212] if the compression is at least 60 and less than 80, then the COR is between 0.770 and 0.815; [0213] if the compression is between at least 80 and less than 100, then the COR is between 0.740 and 0.810; or [0214] if the compression is at least 100, then the COR is between 0.710 and 0.780.

[0215] In another embodiment, the golf ball construction has a relationship between compression and COR such that: [0216] if the golf ball compression is greater than 40, for a compression C.sub.0, the COR is defined by the curves in FIG. 3 and defined by Equation 11:

[00023]$\begin{array}{cc}-9.71{10}^{-6}{C}_0^2+5.46{10}^{-4}{C}_0+0.765\mathrm{COR}-8.14{10}^{-6}{C}_0^2+7.24{10}^{-4}{C}_0+0.809& \left(\mathrm{Equation}11\right)\end{array}$

[0217] FIG. 3 is a representative plot showing the golf ball compression and golf ball COR for some exemplary golf balls according to the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3, an exemplary target COR Area is illustrated between the upper and lower plot lines.

Exemplary Golf Ball Construction Categories

[0218] The following non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction categories can be matched or paired with any one or more of the dimple pattern categories, examples, or other aspects disclosed herein.

[0219] A first non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a two-layer golf ball, having a COR of 0.785-0.815, a compression of less than 60, and an initial velocity of less than 255 feet/second.

[0220] A second non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a three-layer golfball, having a COR of 0.785-0.815, a compression of less than 60, and an initial velocity of less than 255 feet/second.

[0221] A third non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a four-layer golf ball, having a COR of 0.785-0.815, a compression of less than 60, and an initial velocity of less than 255 feet/second.

[0222] A fourth non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a two-layer golf ball, having a COR of 0.770-0.815, a compression of at least 60 and less than 80, and an initial velocity of less than 255 feet/second.

[0223] A fifth non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a three-layer golf ball, having a COR of 0.770-0.815, a compression of at least 60 and less than 80, and an initial velocity of less than 255 feet/second.

[0224] A sixth non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a four-layer golf ball, having a COR of 0.770-0.815, a compression of at least 60 and less than 80, and an initial velocity of less than 255 feet/second.

[0225] A seventh non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a two-layer golf ball, having a COR of 0.740-0.810, a compression of at least 80 and less than 100, and an initial velocity of less than 255 feet/second.

[0226] An eighth non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a three-layer golf ball, having a COR of 0.740-0.810, a compression of at least 80 and less than 100, and an initial velocity of less than 255 feet/second.

[0227] A ninth non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a four-layer golf ball, having a COR of 0.740-0.810, a compression of at least 80 and less than 100, and an initial velocity of less than 255 feet/second.

[0228] A tenth non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a two-layer golf ball, having a COR of 0.710-0.780, a compression of at least 100, and an initial velocity of less than 255 feet/second.

[0229] An eleventh non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a three-layer golf ball, having a COR of 0.710-0.780, a compression of at least 100, and an initial velocity of less than 255 feet/second.

[0230] A twelfth non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a four-layer golf ball, having a COR of 0.710-0.780, a compression of at least 100, and an initial velocity of less than 255 feet/second.

[0231] A thirteenth non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a two-layer golf ball, having a COR of no greater than 0.800, a compression of no greater than 90, and an initial velocity of no greater than 252 feet/second; wherein the core of the golf ball is comprised of at least 5 phr of butyl rubber. The core can have a diameter of at least 1.550 inches, and a weight of at least 1.320 ounces. The core can have a COR of no greater than 0.765.

[0232] A fourteenth non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a two-layer golf ball, having a COR of no greater than 0.780, a compression of no greater than 90, and an initial velocity of no greater than 250 feet/second; wherein the core of the golf ball is comprised of at least 10 phr of butyl rubber. The core can have a diameter of at least 1.550 inches, and a weight of at least 1.320 ounces. The core can have a COR of no greater than 0.745.

[0233] A fifteenth non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a two-layer golf ball, having a COR of no greater than 0.760, a compression of no greater than 90, and an initial velocity of no greater than 248 feet/second; wherein the core of the golf ball is comprised of at least 15 phr of butyl rubber. The core can have a diameter of at least 1.550 inches, and a weight of at least 1.320 ounces. The core can have a COR of no greater than 0.725.

[0234] A sixteenth non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a three-layer golf ball including a core, casing and cover, the golf ball having a COR of no greater than 0.795, a compression of no greater than 95, and an initial velocity of no greater than 252 feet/second; wherein the core of the golf ball is comprised of at least 5 phr of butyl rubber. The core can have a diameter of at least 1.530 inches, and a weight of at least 1.260 ounces. The core can have a COR of no greater than 0.775. The casing can have a thickness of 0.050 inches. The cased core can have a COR of no greater than 0.800.

[0235] A seventeenth non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a three-layer golf ball including a core, casing and cover, the golf ball having a COR of no greater than 0.775, a compression of no greater than 95, and an initial velocity of no greater than 250 feet/second; wherein the core of the golf ball is comprised of at least 10 phr of butyl rubber. The core can have a diameter of at least 1.530 inches, and a weight of at least 1.260 ounces. The core can have a COR of no greater than 0.755. The casing can have a thickness of 0.050 inches. The cased core can have a COR of no greater than 0.780.

[0236] An eighteenth non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a three-layer golf ball including a core, casing and cover, the golf ball having a COR of no greater than 0.760, a compression of no greater than 95, and an initial velocity of no greater than 248 feet/second; wherein the core of the golf ball is comprised of at least 15 phr of butyl rubber. The core can have a diameter of 1.530 inches, and a weight of at least 1.260 ounces. The core can have a COR of no greater than 0.735. The casing can have a thickness of 0.050 inches. The cased core can have a COR of no greater than 0.765.

[0237] A nineteenth non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a four-layer golf ball including an inner core, outer core, casing and cover, the golf ball having a COR of no greater than 0.800, a compression of no greater than 105, and an initial velocity of no greater than 252 feet/second; wherein the inner core, the outer core, or the inner and outer cores of the golf ball is comprised of at least 5 phr of butyl rubber. The dual core can have a diameter of at least 1.550 inches and a weight of at least 1.300 ounces. The dual core can have a COR of no greater than 0.785. The casing can have a thickness of 0.040 inches. The cased core can have a COR of no greater than 0.805.

[0238] A twentieth non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a four-layer golf ball including an inner core, outer core, casing and cover, the golf ball having a COR of no greater than 0.780, a compression of no greater than 105, and an initial velocity of no greater than 250 feet/second; wherein the inner core, the outer core, or the inner and outer cores of the golf ball is comprised of at least 10 phr of butyl rubber. The dual core can have a diameter of at least 1.550 inches and a weight of at least 1.300 ounces. The dual core can have a COR of no greater than 0.765. The casing can have a thickness of 0.040 inches. The cased core can have a COR of no greater than 0.785.

[0239] A twenty-first non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a four-layer golf ball including an inner core, outer core, casing and cover, the golf ball having a COR of no greater than 0.760, a compression of no greater than 105, and an initial velocity of no greater than 248 feet/second; wherein the inner core, the outer core, or the inner and outer cores of the golf ball is comprised of at least 15 phr of butyl rubber. The dual core can have a diameter of at least 1.550 inches and a weight of at least 1.300 ounces. The dual core can have a COR of no greater than 0.745. The casing can have a thickness of 0.040 inches. The cased core can have a COR of no greater than 0.765.

[0240] A twenty-second non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a three-layer golf ball including a core, casing and cover, the golf ball having a COR of no greater than 0.810, a compression of at least 90, and an initial velocity of no greater than 253 feet/second; wherein the core of the golf ball is comprised of 5 phr-50 phr of styrene-butadiene rubber. The core can have a diameter of at least 1.525 inches, and a weight of at least 1.250 ounces. The core can have a COR of no greater than 0.790. The casing can have a thickness of 0.025 inches-0.055 inches. The cased core can have a COR of no greater than 0.805.

[0241] A twenty-third non-limiting exemplary golf ball construction category may comprise a four-layer golf ball including an inner core, outer core, casing and cover, the golf ball having a COR of no greater than 0.810, a compression of at least 90, and an initial velocity of no greater than 253 feet/second; wherein at least one of the inner core, the outer core, or the inner and outer cores of the golf ball are comprised of 5 phr-50 phr of styrene-butadiene rubber. The dual core can have a diameter of at least 1.545 inches and a weight of at least 1.290 ounces. The dual core can have a COR of no greater than 0.790. The casing can have a thickness of 0.025 inches-0.055 inches. The cased core can have a COR of no greater than 0.805.

[0242] One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that golf balls having five or more layers can also be provided having similar characteristics as disclosed herein to the golf balls having two, three, or four layers.

[0243] In one aspect, the core has a weight of at least 1.220 ounces and a COR of less than 0.790. In one aspect, the core has a weight of at least 1.245 ounces and a COR of less than 0.785, or less than 0.790, or less than 0.795, or less than 0.800. In one aspect, the core has a weight of at least 1.250 ounces and a coefficient of restitution of less than 0.785, or less than 0.790, or less than 0.795, or less than 0.800. In one aspect, the core has a weight of at least 1.275 ounces and a COR of less than 0.785, or less than 0.790, or less than 0.795, or less than 0.800. In one aspect, the core has a weight of at least 1.290 ounces and a COR of less than 0.785, or less than 0.790, or less than 0.795, or less than 0.800.

[0244] In one aspect, the core can have a diameter of at least 1.525 inches. In one aspect, the core can have a diameter of at least 1.530 inches. In one aspect, the core can have a diameter of at least 1.535 inches. In one aspect, the core can have a diameter of at least 1.540 inches. In one aspect, the core can have a diameter of at least 1.545 inches. In one aspect, the core can have a diameter of at least 1.550 inches.

Exemplary Golf Ball Construction Packages

[0245] In one aspect, a plurality of golf ball construction characteristics or packages can be provided herein. These exemplary golf ball constructions are described in detail herein.

[0246] In any one of the golf balls described below, the golf ball core (whether single or multi-layer), casing layer, and cover layer can be formed from any one or more of the exemplary materials disclosed herein.

Construction Package 1

[0247] Table 7 discloses the relevant parameters of a golf ball associated with a first construction package. The exemplary parameters below can be provided for a golf ball having three layers, including a core, casing layer, and cover layer.

TABLE-US-00010 TABLE 7 Construction Package 1 Golf Ball Weight (ounces) 1.600-1.620 Golf Ball Diameter (inches) 1.680-1.700 Golf Ball Compression 70 Golf Ball COR 0.795 Golf Ball Initial Velocity (feet/second) 255 Core COR 0.782 Core Weight (ounces) 1.260 Core Diameter (inches) 1.530 Casing Thickness (inches) 0.050 Cased Core Compression 80 Cover Thickness (inches) 0.025

Construction Package 2

[0248] Table 8 discloses the relevant parameters of a golf ball associated with a second construction package. The exemplary parameters below can be provided for a golf ball having four layers, including an inner core layer, outer core layer, casing layer, and cover layer.

TABLE-US-00011 TABLE 8 Construction Package 2 Golf Ball Weight (ounces) 1.600-1.620 Golf Ball Diameter (inches) 1.680-1.700 Golf Ball Compression 101 Golf Ball COR 0.770 Golf Ball Initial Velocity (feet/second) 250 Core COR 0.775 Core Weight (ounces) 1.300 Core Diameter (inches) 1.550 Casing Thickness (inches) 0.040 Cased Core Compression 85 Cover Thickness (inches) 0.025

Construction Package 3

[0249] Table 9 discloses the relevant parameters of a golf ball associated with a third construction package. The exemplary parameters below can be provided for a golf ball having two layers, including a core, and cover layer.

TABLE-US-00012 TABLE 9 Construction Package 3 Golf Ball Weight (ounces) 1.600-1.620 Golf Ball Diameter (inches) 1.680-1.700 Golf Ball Compression 70 Golf Ball COR 0.800 Golf Ball Initial Velocity (feet/second) 255 Core COR 0.785 Core Weight (ounces) 1.320 Core Diameter (inches) 1.550 Cover Thickness (inches) 0.065

Construction Package 4

[0250] Table 10 discloses the relevant parameters of a golf ball associated with a fourth construction package. The exemplary parameters below can be provided for a golf ball having two layers, including a core and cover layer.

TABLE-US-00013 TABLE 10 Construction Package 4 Golf Ball Weight (ounces) 1.600-1.620 Golf Ball Diameter (inches) 1.680-1.700 Golf Ball Compression 50 Golf Ball COR 0.805 Golf Ball Initial Velocity (feet/second) 255 Core COR 0.810 Core Weight (ounces) 1.450 Core Diameter (inches) 1.610 Cover Thickness (inches) 0.037

Construction Package 5

[0251] Table 11 discloses the relevant parameters of a golf ball associated with a fifth construction package. The exemplary parameters below can be provided for a golf ball having two layers, including a core and a cover.

TABLE-US-00014 TABLE 11 Construction Package 5 Golf Ball Weight (ounces) 1.600-1.620 Golf Ball Diameter (inches) 1.680-1.700 Golf Ball Compression 68 Golf Ball COR 0.792 Golf Ball Initial Velocity (feet/second) 255 Core COR 0.780 Core Weight (ounces) 1.380 Core Diameter (inches) 1.580 Cover Thickness (inches) 0.054

Construction Package 6

[0252] Table 12 discloses the relevant parameters of a golf ball associated with a sixth construction package. The exemplary parameters below can be provided for a golf ball having three layers, including a core layer, casing layer, and cover layer.

TABLE-US-00015 TABLE 12 Construction Package 6 Golf Ball Weight (ounces) 1.600-1.620 Golf Ball Diameter (inches) 1.680-1.700 Golf Ball Compression 115 Golf Ball COR 0.755 Golf Ball Initial Velocity (feet/second) 255 Core COR 0.765 Core Weight (ounces) 1.290 Core Diameter (inches) 1.550 Casing Thickness (inches) 0.033 Cased Core Compression 110 Cover Thickness (inches) 0.034

Construction Package 7

[0253] Table 13 discloses the relevant parameters of a golf ball associated with a seventh construction package. The exemplary parameters below can be provided for a golf ball having four layers, including a dual layer core, casing layer, and cover layer.

TABLE-US-00016 TABLE 13 Construction Package 7 Golf Ball Weight (ounces) 1.600-1.620 Golf Ball Diameter (inches) 1.680-1.700 Golf Ball Compression 95 Golf Ball COR 0.780 Golf Ball Initial Velocity (feet/second) 255 Core COR 0.770 Core Weight (ounces) 1.300 Core Diameter (inches) 1.550 Casing Thickness (inches) 0.035 Cased Core Compression 88 Cover Thickness (inches) 0.031

Construction Package 8

[0254] Table 14 discloses the relevant parameters of a golf ball associated with an eighth construction package. The exemplary parameters below can be provided for a golf ball having four layers, including a dual layer core, casing layer, and cover layer.

TABLE-US-00017 TABLE 14 Construction Package 8 Golf Ball Weight (ounces) 1.600-1.620 Golf Ball Diameter (inches) 1.680-1.700 Golf Ball Compression 65 Golf Ball COR 0.815 Golf Ball Initial Velocity (feet/second) 255 Core COR 0.805 Core Weight (ounces) 1.260 Core Diameter (inches) 1.530 Casing Thickness (inches) 0.045 Cased Core Compression 60 Cover Thickness (inches) 0.031

Construction Package 9

[0255] Table 15 discloses the relevant parameters of a golf ball associated with a ninth construction package. The exemplary parameters below can be provided for a golf ball having three layers, including a core, casing layer, and cover layer.

TABLE-US-00018 TABLE 15 Construction Package 9 Golf Ball Weight (ounces) 1.600-1.620 Golf Ball Diameter (inches) 1.680-1.700 Golf Ball Compression 105 Golf Ball COR 0.755 Golf Ball Initial Velocity (feet/second) 255 Core COR 0.765 Core Weight (ounces) 1.260 Core Diameter (inches) 1.530 Casing Thickness (inches) 0.050 Cased Core Compression 95 Cover Thickness (inches) 0.025

Construction Package 10

[0256] Table 16 discloses the relevant parameters of a golf ball associated with a tenth construction package. The exemplary parameters below can be provided for a golf ball having four layers, including a dual layer core, casing layer, and cover layer.

TABLE-US-00019 TABLE 16 Construction Package 10 Golf Ball Weight (ounces) 1.600-1.620 Golf Ball Diameter (inches) 1.680-1.700 Golf Ball Compression 85 Golf Ball COR 0.795 Golf Ball Initial Velocity (feet/second) 255 Core COR 0.805 Core Weight (ounces) 1.300 Core Diameter (inches) 1.550 Casing Thickness (inches) 0.040 Cased Core Compression 80 Cover Thickness (inches) 0.025

Construction Package 11

[0257] Table 17 discloses the relevant parameters of a golf ball associated with an eleventh construction package. The exemplary parameters below can be provided for a golf ball having four layers, including a dual layer core, casing layer, and cover layer.

TABLE-US-00020 TABLE 17 Construction Package 11 Golf Ball Weight (ounces) 1.600-1.620 Golf Ball Diameter (inches) 1.680-1.700 Golf Ball Compression 110 Golf Ball COR 0.775 Golf Ball Initial Velocity (feet/second) 255 Core COR 0.785 Core Weight (ounces) 1.310 Core Diameter (inches) 1.550 Casing Thickness (inches) 0.045 Cased Core Compression 107 Cover Thickness (inches) 0.022

[0258] In one aspect, a golf ball comprising one of the predefined Construction Packages and one of the predefined Dimple Patterns can be provided. Various exemplary golf ball profiles are provided below. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that other combinations of Construction Packages and Dimple Pattern are possible, and any one of the Construction Packages can be matched with any one of the Dimple Patterns.

[0259] In a first exemplary golf ball profile, Construction Package 1 is paired with any one of Exemplary Dimple Patterns A-G.

[0260] In a second exemplary golf ball profile, Construction Package 2 is paired with any one of Exemplary Dimple Patterns A-G.

[0261] In a third exemplary golf ball profile, Construction Package 3 is paired with any one of Exemplary Dimple Patterns A-G.

[0262] In a fourth exemplary golf ball profile, Construction Package 4 is paired with any one of Exemplary Dimple Patterns A-G.

[0263] In a fifth exemplary golf ball profile, Construction Package 5 is paired with any one of Exemplary Dimple Patterns A-G.

[0264] In a sixth exemplary golf ball profile, Construction Package 6 is paired with any one of Exemplary Dimple Patterns A-G.

[0265] In a seventh exemplary golf ball profile, Construction Package 7 is paired with any one of Exemplary Dimple Patterns A-G.

[0266] In an eighth exemplary golf ball profile, Construction Package 8 is paired with any one of Exemplary Dimple Patterns A-G.

[0267] In a ninth exemplary golf ball profile, Construction Package 9 is paired with any one of Exemplary Dimple Patterns A-G.

[0268] In a tenth exemplary golf ball profile, Construction Package 10 is paired with any one of Exemplary Dimple Patterns A-G.

[0269] In an eleventh exemplary golf ball profile, Construction Package 11 is paired with any one of Exemplary Dimple Patterns A-G.

Flight Factor

[0270] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, at least some of the exemplary golf balls disclosed herein can exhibit a Flight Factor, which is defined according to the following equation:

[00024]$\begin{array}{cc}F=\frac{\mathrm{DA}{W}_{\mathrm{core}}{D}_{\mathrm{core}}\left(C_{D1}+C_{D2}+C_{D3}\right)}{{\mathrm{IV}}_{\mathrm{ball}}{\mathrm{COR}}_{\mathrm{ball}}{\mathrm{COR}}_{\mathrm{core}}}& \left(\mathrm{Equation}12\right)\end{array}$

[0271] where C.sub.D1 is the drag coefficient defined at a Reynolds number of 220,000 and a spin ratio of 0.070; C.sub.D2 is the drag coefficient defined at a Reynolds number of 160,000 and a spin ratio of 0.095; C.sub.D3 is the drag coefficient defined at a Reynolds number of 120,000 and a spin ratio of 0.100; DA is the integrated drag area; W.sub.core is the weight of the core (in ounces); D.sub.core is the diameter of the core (in inches); IV.sub.ball is the initial velocity of the golf ball (in feet/second); COR.sub.ball is the COR of the golf ball; and COR.sub.core is the COR of the core.

[0272] In one aspect, the Flight Factor is at least 120, or at least 130, or at least 140, or at least 150. In one aspect, the Flight Factor is no greater than 160, or no greater than 170, or no greater than 180.

[0273] The Flight Factor is directed to a balance of various aerodynamic and construction parameters of a given golf ball. In one aspect, the Flight Factor can represent an optimized design solution for golf balls that can exhibit a relatively shorter distance on longer shots based at least in part to due to higher drag characteristics while simultaneously exhibiting more nearly the same total distance on iron or wedge shots relative to modern, high-performance golf balls.

Speed Factor

[0274] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, at least some of the exemplary golf balls disclosed herein can exhibit a Speed Factor, wherein the golf ball has a coefficient of restitution (COR.sub.ball) and an initial velocity (IV.sub.ball) (feet/second), and the Speed Factor(S) is defined by the following equation:

[00025]$\begin{array}{cc}S=902.67+814.63\left({\mathrm{COR}}_{\mathrm{ball}}\right)-5.44\left({\mathrm{IV}}_{\mathrm{ball}}\right)& \left(\mathrm{Equation}13\right)\end{array}$

[0275] In one aspect, the Speed Factor(S) is at least 177 and no greater than 181. In one aspect, the Speed Factor is no greater than 180, or no greater than 179, or no greater than 178. In another aspect, the Speed Factor is at least 178, or at least 179, or at least 180.

[0276] The Speed Factor is directed to the effectiveness of energy transfer from the clubhead to the golf ball at the moment of impact, converting clubhead speed into golf ball speed. The Speed Factor is a result of the golf ball construction, and a lower Speed Factor results in a lower rate of energy transfer. Likewise, a higher Speed Factor conveys a relatively higher rate of energy transfer.

[0277] At least some of the presently disclosed golf balls can preferably have a ratio of the Flight Factor to Speed Factor of at least 0.650, or at least 0.700, or at least 0.750, or at least 0.800, or at least 0.850, or at least 0.900. In one aspect, the ratio of the Flight Factor to Speed Factor can be 0.700-0.900, or 0.750-0.850.

[0278] In one aspect, if the golf ball is a two-layer golf ball (i.e., core and cover), then the ratio of the Flight Factor to Speed Factor can be 0.750-0.875.

[0279] In one aspect, if the golf ball is a three-layer golf ball (i.e., core, casing, cover), then the ratio of the Flight Factor to Speed Factor can be 0.725-0.825.

[0280] In one aspect, if the golf ball is a four-layer golf ball (i.e., inner core, outer core, casing, cover), then the ratio of the Flight Factor to Speed Factor can be 0.725-0.825.

Golf Ball Exemplary Profiles

[0281] The following Tables include various Golf Ball Exemplary Profiles. As shown in the following Tables, each of the golf ball constructional parameters detailed below can be paired with a variety of the Exemplary Dimple Patterns detailed above.

[0282] In each of the tables disclosed herein, compression is defined according to DCM compression, initial velocity (IV) is defined in feet/second, weight is defined in ounces, and thicknesses and diameters are defined in inches. All parameters mentioned in the tables disclosed herein are defined according to the various methodologies disclosed herein.

[0283] One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that any one or more of the Golf Ball Exemplary Profiles can be paired with other dimple patterns. More specifically, any one or more of the Golf Ball Exemplary Profiles could include a dimple pattern that exhibits the aerodynamics performance parameters detailed herein. Any one or more of the golf balls described below can exhibit the following drag coefficient values: 0.225C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 220,000 and a spin ratio of 0.070; 0.225C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 160,000 and a spin ratio of 0.095; and 0.225C.sub.D0.235 at a Reynolds number of 120,000 and a spin ratio of 0.100. Any one or more of the golf balls described below can exhibit an integrated drag area value of 13,750DA14,750, which is defined according to the equation described above and is established at the condition described above.

[0284] Table 18 provides specific characteristics of two-layer golf balls, such as golf balls including a core and a cover. These two-layer golf balls can have an exemplary golf ball weight of 1.600 ounces-1.620 ounces. These two-layer golf balls can have an exemplary golf ball diameter of 1.680 inches-1.700 inches.

[0285] In one aspect, the cores of the two-layer golf balls can be formed any one or more of the materials disclosed herein. More specifically, the cores of the two-layer golf balls can be comprised of at least a base polymer (such as polybutadiene or any other rubber composition disclosed herein), an initiator agent, a coagent and/or a curing agent, and optionally one or more of a metal oxide, metal fatty acid or fatty acid, antioxidant, soft and fast agent, fillers, and additives, in addition to the noted butyl content detailed in the tables. In one aspect, the covers for the two-layer golf balls can be formed primarily from ionomer.

TABLE-US-00021 TABLE 18 Two Piece Golf Ball Exemplary Profiles 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Dimple Pattern A A B B C C D D Golf Ball Layers 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 Golf Ball COR 0.778 0.760 0.778 0.760 0.778 0.760 0.778 0.760 Golf Ball Compression 88 88 88 88 88 88 88 88 Golf Ball IV 249.3 246.9 249.3 246.9 249.3 246.9 249.3 246.9 Core Butyl Content 10 parts 15 parts 10 parts 15 parts 10 parts 15 parts 10 parts 15 parts Core COR 0.741 0.723 0.741 0.723 0.741 0.723 0.741 0.723 Core Weight 1.321 1.321 1.321 1.321 1.321 1.321 1.321 1.321 Core Diameter 1.550 1.550 1.550 1.550 1.550 1.550 1.550 1.550 Core Compression 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 Cover Thickness 0.066 0.066 0.066 0.066 0.066 0.066 0.066 0.066 Flight Factor 146.1 154.7 141.4 149.8 145.0 153.6 145.6 154.2 Speed Factor 180.3 178.7 180.3 178.7 180.3 178.7 180.3 178.7 Two Piece Golf Ball Exemplary Profiles 9 10 11 12 13 14 Dimple Pattern E E F F G G Golf Ball Layers 2 2 2 2 2 2 Golf Ball COR 0.778 0.760 0.778 0.760 0.778 0.760 Golf Ball Compression 88 88 88 88 88 88 Golf Ball IV 249.3 246.9 249.3 246.9 249.3 246.9 Core Butyl Content 10 parts 15 parts 10 parts 15 parts 10 parts 15 parts Core COR 0.741 0.723 0.741 0.723 0.741 0.723 Core Weight 1.321 1.321 1.321 1.321 1.321 1.321 Core Diameter 1.550 1.550 1.550 1.550 1.550 1.550 Core Compression 63 63 63 63 63 63 Cover Thickness 0.066 0.066 0.066 0.066 0.066 0.066 Flight Factor 141.0 149.3 139.7 148.0 138.5 146.7 Speed Factor 180.3 178.7 180.3 178.7 180.3 178.7

[0286] Table 19 provides specific characteristics of three-layer golf balls, such as golf balls including a core, a casing or intermediate layer, and a cover. These three-layer golf balls can have an exemplary golf ball weight of 1.600 ounces-1.620 ounces. These three-layer golf balls can have an exemplary golf ball diameter of 1.680 inches-1.700 inches.

[0287] In one aspect, the cores of the three-layer golf balls can be formed any one or more of the materials disclosed herein. More specifically, the cores of the three-layer golf balls can be comprised of at least a base polymer (such as polybutadiene or any other rubber composition disclosed herein), an initiator agent, a coagent and/or a curing agent, and optionally one or more of a metal oxide, metal fatty acid or fatty acid, antioxidant, soft and fast agent, fillers, and additives, in addition to the noted butyl content detailed in the tables. In one aspect, the casing layer for the three-layer golf balls can be formed primarily from ionomer. In one aspect, the cover layer for the three-layer golf balls can be formed primarily from urethane.

TABLE-US-00022 TABLE 19 Three Piece Golf Ball Exemplary Profiles 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Dimple Pattern A A B B C C D D Golf Ball Layers 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 Golf Ball COR 0.775 0.760 0.775 0.760 0.775 0.760 0.775 0.760 Golf Ball Compression 95 95 95 95 95 95 95 95 Golf Ball IV 248.8 246.8 248.8 246.8 248.8 246.8 248.8 246.8 Core Butyl Content 10 parts 15 parts 10 parts 15 parts 10 parts 15 parts 10 parts 15 parts Core COR 0.752 0.734 0.752 0.734 0.752 0.734 0.752 0.734 Core Weight 1.263 1.263 1.263 1.263 1.263 1.263 1.263 1.263 Core Diameter 1.530 1.530 1.530 1.530 1.530 1.530 1.530 1.530 Core Compression 71 71 71 71 71 71 71 71 Casing Thickness 0.050 0.050 0.050 0.050 0.050 0.050 0.050 0.050 Cased Core Compression 89 89 89 89 89 89 89 89 Cased Core COR 0.778 0.760 0.778 0.760 0.778 0.760 0.778 0.760 Cover Thickness 0.026 0.026 0.026 0.026 0.026 0.026 0.026 0.026 Flight Factor 136.6 143.9 132.3 139.3 135.7 142.9 136.2 143.4 Speed Factor 180.5 179.2 180.5 179.2 180.5 179.2 180.5 179.2 Three Piece Golf Ball Exemplary Profiles 9 10 11 12 13 14 Dimple Pattern E E F F G G Golf Ball Layers 3 3 3 3 3 3 Golf Ball COR 0.775 0.760 0.775 0.760 0.775 0.760 Golf Ball Compression 95 95 95 95 95 95 Golf Ball IV 248.8 246.8 248.8 246.8 248.8 246.8 Core Butyl Content 10 parts 15 parts 10 parts 15 parts 10 parts 15 parts Core COR 0.752 0.734 0.752 0.734 0.752 0.734 Core Weight 1.263 1.263 1.263 1.263 1.263 1.263 Core Diameter 1.530 1.530 1.530 1.530 1.530 1.530 Core Compression 71 71 71 71 71 71 Casing Thickness 0.050 0.050 0.050 0.050 0.050 0.050 Cased Core Compression 89 89 89 89 89 89 Cased Core COR 0.778 0.760 0.778 0.760 0.778 0.760 Cover Thickness 0.026 0.026 0.026 0.026 0.026 0.026 Flight Factor 131.9 138.9 130.7 137.7 129.5 136.4 Speed Factor 180.5 179.2 180.5 179.2 180.5 179.2

[0288] Table 20 provide specific characteristics of four-layer golf balls, such as golf balls including a dual layer core (i.e., a center and outer core layer), a casing or intermediate layer, and a cover. These four-layer golf balls can have an exemplary golf ball weight of 1.600 ounces-1.620 ounces. These four-layer golf balls can have an exemplary golfball diameter of 1.680 inches-1.700 inches.

[0289] In one aspect, the cores of the four-layer golf balls can be formed any one or more of the materials disclosed herein. More specifically, the cores of the four-layer golf balls can be comprised of at least a base polymer (such as polybutadiene or any other rubber composition disclosed herein), an initiator agent, a coagent and/or a curing agent, and optionally one or more of a metal oxide, metal fatty acid or fatty acid, antioxidant, soft and fast agent, fillers, and additives, in addition to the noted butyl content detailed in the tables, which can be present in either the center or outer core layer or both. In one aspect, the casing layer for the four-layer golf balls can be formed primarily from ionomer. In one aspect, the cover layer for the four-layer golf balls can be formed primarily from urethane.

TABLE-US-00023 TABLE 20 Four Piece Golf Ball Exemplary Profiles 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Dimple Pattern A B C D E F G Golf Ball Layers 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 Golf Ball COR 0.760 0.760 0.760 0.760 0.760 0.760 0.760 Golf Ball Compression 105 105 105 105 105 105 105 Golf Ball IV 246.6 246.6 246.6 246.6 246.6 246.6 246.6 Core Butyl Content 15 parts 15 parts 15 parts 15 parts 15 parts 15 parts 15 parts Center Diameter 1.130 1.130 1.130 1.130 1.130 1.130 1.130 Center Weight 0.504 0.504 0.504 0.504 0.504 0.504 0.504 Core COR 0.744 0.744 0.744 0.744 0.744 0.744 0.744 Core Weight 1.303 1.303 1.303 1.303 1.303 1.303 1.303 Core Diameter 1.550 1.550 1.550 1.550 1.550 1.550 1.550 Core Compression 86 86 86 86 86 86 86 Casing Thickness 0.040 0.040 0.040 0.040 0.040 0.040 0.040 Cased Core Compression 101 101 101 101 101 101 101 Cased Core COR 0.763 0.763 0.763 0.763 0.763 0.763 0.763 Cover Thickness 0.026 0.026 0.026 0.026 0.026 0.026 0.026 Flight Factor 148.5 143.8 147.4 148.0 143.3 142.1 140.8 Speed Factor 180.3 180.3 180.3 180.3 180.3 180.3 180.3

[0290] While the golf balls detailed in the Tables above generally have a relatively higher compression, one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that various other golf ball constructions, such as golf balls exhibiting a relatively lower compression could be used in conjunction with the Dimple Patterns disclosed herein. Additionally, all the other characteristics detailed in the Tables below, such as core butyl content, as well as other properties associated with core, cover, and/or casing, can vary.

[0291] One of ordinary skill in the art would understand based on the present disclosure that golf ball constructions can vary, such as the following exemplary formulations or compositions. In one aspect, the following exemplary formulations or compositions are selected in order to achieve a desired Speed Factor and/or Flight Factor as disclosed herein.

[0292] In one aspect, the golf ball can have at least three layers, including a casing layer comprising one or more ethylene ionomer, ethylene/methacrylic ionomer, or ethylene/acrylic acid copolymer with a flex modulus not greater than 70 KSI.

[0293] In another aspect, the golf ball can be a two-layer golf ball comprising a cover including one or more thermoplastic ionomers with a flex modulus not greater than 70 KSI.

[0294] In another aspect, the golf ball can have a cased core diameter of no greater than 1.630 inches. In another aspect, the golf ball can have a cased core diameter of no greater than 1.620 inches. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the dimensions of any layer of the golf ball can be modified.

[0295] In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising no greater than 0.30 phr of a radical scavenger. In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising no greater than 0.25 phr of the radical scavenger. In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising no greater than 0.20 phr of the radical scavenger. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the core element having these radical scavenger compositions can include a single solid core, a center of a dual core, an outer layer of a dual core, and/or both the center and outer layer of a dual core. Various examples of radical scavengers are known to one of ordinary skill in the art, and are also disclosed herein.

[0296] In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising no greater than 15 phr of a catalyst in the rubber composition. In another aspect, the core can include no greater than 12 phr of the catalyst in the rubber composition. In another aspect, the core can include no greater than 9 phr of the catalyst in the rubber composition. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the core element having these catalyst compositions can include a single solid core, a center of a dual core, an outer layer of a dual core, and/or both the center and outer layer of a dual core. Various examples of rubber composition catalysts are known to one of ordinary skill in the art, and are also disclosed herein.

[0297] In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising at least 1 phr of a filler configured to lower the COR (i.e., a slow filler) of the core. In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising at least 3 phr of the slow filler. In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising at least 5 phr of the slow filler. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the core element having these slow filler compositions can include a single solid core, a center of a dual core, an outer layer of a dual core, and/or both the center and outer layer of a dual core. Various examples of fillers for rubber compositions are known to one of ordinary skill in the art, and are also disclosed herein.

[0298] In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising at least 15 phr of core regrind. In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising at least 20 phr of core regrind. In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising at least 25 phr of core regrind. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the core element having these regrind compositions can include a single solid core, a center of a dual core, an outer layer of a dual core, and/or both the center and outer layer of a dual core.

[0299] In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising at least 5 phr of styrene-butadiene rubber. In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising at least 15 phr of styrene-butadiene rubber. In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising at least 30 phr of styrene-butadiene rubber. In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising at least 45 phr of styrene-butadiene rubber. In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising 1 phr-50 phr of styrene-butadiene rubber. In one aspect, a base rubber of the core can include polybutadiene, and a secondary rubber in the core can include any amount of styrene-butadiene rubber. In yet another aspect, a base rubber of the core can include styrene-butadiene rubber, and a secondary rubber in the core can include polybutadiene. Other known rubbers, such as the rubbers and materials disclosed herein, could be combined with the styrene-butadiene rubber. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the core element or layer having these exemplary styrene-butadiene rubber compositions can include a single solid core, a center of a dual core, an outer layer of a dual core, and/or both the center and outer layer of a dual core. Furthermore, in the instance of a dual core, the center or inner layer of the core could have a first amount or phr of styrene-butadiene rubber, and the outer layer of the core could have a second, different amount or phr of styrene-butadiene rubber.

[0300] In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising at least 5 phr of butyl rubber. In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising at least 15 phr of butyl rubber. In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising at least 30 phr of butyl rubber. In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising at least 45 phr of butyl rubber. In another aspect, the golf ball can have a core comprising 1 phr-50 phr of butyl rubber. In one aspect, a base rubber of the core can include polybutadiene, and a secondary rubber in the core can include any amount of butyl rubber. In yet another aspect, a base rubber of the core can include butyl rubber, and a secondary rubber in the core can include polybutadiene. Other known rubbers, such as the rubbers and materials disclosed herein, could be combined with the butyl rubber. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the core element or layer having these exemplary butyl rubber compositions can include a single solid core, a center of a dual core, an outer layer of a dual core, and/or both the center and outer layer of a dual core. Furthermore, in the instance of a dual core, the center or inner layer of the core could have a first amount or phr of butyl rubber, and the outer layer of the core could have a second, different amount or phr of butyl rubber.

[0301] In one aspect, the core can comprise a free radical initiator of at least 0.80 phr, or at least 0.90 phr, or at least 1.00 phr. In another aspect, the golf ball can include a dual core having an outer core comprised of at least 0.40 phr of a free radical initiator, or at least 0.80 phr of the free radical initiator, or at least 1.20 phr of the free radical initiator. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the core element having these free radical initiator compositions can include a single solid core, a center of a dual core, an outer layer of a dual core, and/or both the center and outer layer of a dual core. Various examples of free radical initiators for rubber compositions are known to one of ordinary skill in the art, and are also disclosed herein.

[0302] In yet another aspect, the core can include various levels of reactive cross-linking co-agent. For example, in one aspect, a solid or single layer core can include at least 25 phr of the reactive cross-linking co-agent, or at least 30 phr of the reactive cross-linking co-agent, or at least 35 phr of the reactive cross-linking co-agent. In a golf ball having a dual core, the center can include at least 20 phr of the reactive cross-linking co-agent, or at least 25 phr of the reactive cross-linking co-agent, or at least 30 phr of the reactive cross-linking co-agent. In a golf ball having a dual core, the outer layer can include at least 30 phr of the reactive cross-linking co-agent, or at least 35 phr of the reactive cross-linking co-agent, or at least 40 phr of the reactive cross-linking co-agent. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the core element having these reactive cross-linking co-agent compositions can include a single solid core, a center of a dual core, an outer layer of a dual core, and/or both the center and outer layer of a dual core. Various examples of reactive cross-linking co-agents for rubber compositions are known to one of ordinary skill in the art, and are also disclosed herein.

[0303] At least some of the golf balls disclosed herein can exhibit flight patterns having a relatively shorter distance on longer shots based at least in part to due to relatively higher drag characteristics (as compared to modern, high-performance golf balls) being paired with relatively slower golf ball speeds (as compared to modern, high-performance golf balls). At least some of the golf balls disclosed herein can exhibit reduced total distance on driver shots relative to modern, high-performance golf balls. At least some of the golf balls disclosed herein can exhibit more nearly the same total distance on iron or wedge shots relative to modern, high-performance golf balls.

[0304] Golf balls comprised of the exemplary dimple patterns and golf ball constructions disclosed herein can exhibit relatively shorter total distances when struck by a clubhead having a relatively high velocity-such as that generated by a driver, other metal wood, and long iron-relative to those of modern, high-performance dimple patterns paired with modern, high-performance golf ball constructions. The comparative distance differences between golf balls of the present disclosure and those with modern, high-performance design will decrease as the velocity of the clubhead decreases, approaching a smaller difference for the slowest clubhead speedssuch as that of a half-swing pitching wedgethan for the faster clubhead speeds. This reduction in comparative distance differences is due in part to a reduction in aerodynamic forces with decreasing golf ball velocity, such that the ball flight is increasingly ballistic in nature. Accordingly, an exemplary golf ball comprised of a dimple pattern exhibiting the aerodynamic characteristics of the present disclosure paired with a relatively slower golf ball construction as compared to a modern, high-performance golf ball construction can result in flight performances in the regime wherein aerodynamic forces are influential that are different from the flight performance of a golf ball comprised of a modern, high-performance dimple pattern paired with a modern, high-performance golf ball construction in that same regime but can display increasingly similar flight performance in the increasingly ballistic flight regime. It should also be noted that at least some of the golf ball constructions of the present disclosure can result in a relatively slower ball velocity resulting from the impact with the club compared to the ball velocity of a modern, high-performance golf ball struck with the same impact conditions, which is the result of a less efficient energy transfer from the club to the ball. In one aspect, at least some of the golf balls disclosed herein can achieve these properties via the combination of a relatively higher drag dimple pattern paired with a relatively slower speed golf ball construction (as compared to modern, high-performance golf balls).

[0305] For relative comparison purposes, FIG. 5 illustrates flight patterns (A), (B), and (C) for driver shots of a plurality of exemplary golf balls having dimple patterns including the aerodynamic characteristics disclosed herein and paired with a relatively slower speed golf ball construction (as compared to a modern, high-performance golf ball construction). Flight pattern (D) is also illustrated for a conventional golf ball having a relatively low drag and fast golf ball construction (i.e., a modern, high-performance golf ball).

[0306] In one aspect, flight pattern (A) corresponds to a golf ball having a relatively high flight window, i.e., 1.375C.sub.D/C.sub.L<1.575. Flight pattern (A) reaches a relatively higher peak height as compared to the conventional golf ball.

[0307] In one aspect, flight pattern (B) corresponds to a golf ball having a relatively middle or medium flight window, i.e., 1.575C.sub.D/C.sub.L<1.775. Flight pattern (B) reaches a relatively similar peak height as compared to the conventional golf ball.

[0308] In one aspect, flight pattern (C) corresponds to a golf ball having a relatively low flight window, i.e., 1.775C.sub.D/C.sub.L1.975. Flight pattern (C) reaches a relatively lower peak height as compared to the conventional golf ball.

[0309] The dimple patterns responsible for flight patterns (A), (B), and (C) have similar drag aerodynamic characteristics (i.e., relatively elevated values of C.sub.D as compared to low drag, modern, high performance dimple patterns) but have different aerodynamic lift characteristics, wherein high drag-high lift patterns (i.e., patterns having relatively high values of C.sub.L) have smaller C.sub.D/C.sub.L ratios than those of high drag-low lift patterns. This variation in the lift-drag balance provides a variety of peak heights for golfers to select in accordance with their preference.

[0310] As shown in FIG. 5, the flight patterns (A), (B), (C) for the exemplary golf balls each reach their respective peak height at a relatively shorter distance downrange as compared to the flight pattern (D) for the conventional golf ball. The flight differences shown in FIG. 5 are an illustrative depiction of the three flight patterns (A), (B), and (C) having increased drag and slower golf ball speeds relative to the fourth flight pattern (D) while also having distinct lift characteristics between (A), (B), and (C). One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that as the flights become increasingly ballistic, the flight patterns (A), (B), (C), and (D) will become increasingly similar.

[0311] While it is apparent that the illustrative embodiments disclosed herein fulfill the objectives stated above, it is appreciated that numerous modifications and other embodiments may be devised by those skilled in the art. 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 disclosure.

[0312] The terms first, second, and the like are used to describe various features or elements, but these features or elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one feature or element from another feature or element. Thus, a first feature or element discussed below could be termed a second feature or element, and similarly, a second feature or element discussed below could be termed a first feature or element without departing from the teachings of the disclosure.

[0313] The golf balls described and claimed herein are not to be limited in scope by the specific embodiments herein disclosed, since these embodiments are intended as illustrations of several aspects of the disclosure. Any equivalent embodiments are intended to be within the scope of this disclosure. Indeed, various modifications of the device in addition to those shown and described herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. Such modifications are also intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. All patents and patent applications cited in the foregoing text are expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.