Multi-Layered and/or Non-Uniform Weight Distributed Pickleball Ball

Abstract

This disclosure provides pickleball balls configured with multi-layered (e.g., multi-shelled) shell and/or shells with non-uniform material distributions. An example pickleball ball comprises an outer shell having a first set of apertures, and an inner shell having a second set of apertures, with at least one aperture of the first set of apertures overlapping an aperture of the second set of apertures, and/or with the outer shell and the inner shell being made of different materials. Another example pickleball ball has a shell with a non-uniform distribution of weight and/or in which at least one of the apertures has an entry and an exit that have different lateral alignment, size, and/or shape.

Claims

1. A pickleball ball, comprising: an outer shell having a first set of apertures; and an inner shell having a second set of apertures, wherein at least one aperture of the first set of apertures overlaps an aperture of the second set of apertures; and/or the outer shell and the inner shell are made of different materials.

2. The pickleball ball according to claim 1, wherein apertures in the first set of apertures go through the outer shell and apertures of the second set of apertures go through the inner shell.

3. The pickleball ball according to claim 1, wherein at least one aperture in the first set of apertures does not overlap with any aperture in the second set of apertures.

4. The pickleball ball according to claim 1, wherein the inner shell comprises a spongy and/or soft material.

5. The pickleball ball according to claim 1, further comprising one or more intermediate shells arranged between the outer shell and the inner shell.

6. The pickleball ball according to claim 1, wherein the outer shell is less smooth than the inner shell and is configured to increase drag.

7. The pickleball ball according to claim 1, wherein the inner shell surrounds a hollow core of the pickleball ball.

8. The pickleball ball according to claim 1, wherein the outer shell and the inner shell are attached using a glue, fusion, heat, or a coating mechanism, or by submerging the pickleball in gas, vapor or liquid.

9. The pickleball ball according to claim 1, wherein a first aperture from the first set of apertures has a funnel shape extending from an outer surface of the outer shell to an inner surface of the outer shell, and a second aperture from the second set of apertures has a funnel shape extending from an outer surface of the inner shell to the inner surface of the inner shell.

10. The pickleball ball according to claim 9, wherein a size and/or shape of an opening of the funnel shape of the first aperture at the inner surface of the outer shell is of a same size and/or shape of the funnel shape of the second aperture at the outer surface of the inner shell.

11. The pickleball ball according to claim 9, wherein the first aperture and the second aperture at least partially overlaps to enable flow of air, from outside the pickleball ball to a hollow area surrounded by the inner shell, through the first aperture and the second aperture.

12. A pickleball ball configured for biased ball movement, the pickleball ball comprising a hollow sphere-shaped shell with a plurality of apertures arranged on the surface of the shell, the shell having a non-uniform distribution of weight and/or at least one of the apertures having an entry and an exit that have different lateral alignment, size, and/or shape.

13. The pickleball ball according to claim 12, wherein the sphere-shaped shell has a non-uniform distribution of weight.

14. The pickleball ball according to claim 13, wherein the sphere-shaped shell is configured to be heavier on one side of the ball.

15. The pickleball ball according to claim 13, wherein additional weight is added to selected areas of the ball.

16. The pickleball ball according to claim 13, wherein the sphere-shaped shell is constructed with materials of different weights in a first area and a second area.

17. The pickleball ball according to claim 13, wherein the sphere-shaped shell has a non-uniform thickness.

18. The pickleball ball according to claim 12, wherein at least one of the apertures has an entry and an exit that have different lateral alignment, size, and/or shape.

19. The pickleball ball according to claim 18, wherein at least one of the apertures has an entry and an exit that have different lateral alignment.

20. The pickleball ball according to claim 18, wherein at least one of the apertures has an entry and an exit that have different sizes and/or different shapes.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Some features are shown by way of example, and not by limitation, in the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like numerals may reference similar elements.

[0019] FIG. 1A shows an example pickleball court, in which embodiments of the present disclosure may be applied.

[0020] FIG. 1B shows another view of a pickleball court.

[0021] FIG. 2 shows a conventional pickleball ball.

[0022] FIG. 3 shows bottom halves of respective layers of a multi-layered (multi-shelled) pickleball ball according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 4 shows the bottom half of a multi-layered pickleball ball according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 5 shows the bottom half of a multi-layered pickleball ball in which not all the holes of one shell overlap a hole in the other shell, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 6 shows the bottom half of a multi-layered pickleball ball in which an intermediate layer is inserted between the inner and outer shells, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 7 illustrates example hole thickness patterns of holes on a pickleball ball surface, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a funnel-shaped tunnel formed by a hole in each of the shells, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate an example of a funnel-shaped tunnel formed by a hole in each of the shells with an entrance being of a different shape, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a funnel-shaped tunnel formed by a hole in each of the shells in which the inner shell portion is narrower, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 11 illustrates an example pickleball ball in which an area of the shell is weighted to be heavier than other areas, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 12 illustrates an apparatus for coating the pickleball ball by submerging the ball in a liquid material, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 13 illustrates an apparatus for coating the pickleball ball by submerging the ball in a liquid, gas or vapor, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

[0033] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the disclosure, including structures, systems, and methods, may be practiced without these specific details. The description and representation herein are the common means used by those experienced or skilled in the art to most effectively convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, and circuitry have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the disclosure.

[0034] References in the specification to one embodiment, an embodiment, an example embodiment, etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

[0035] This disclosure relates to Pickleball, a game that has in recent years seen a massive increase in popularity among all age groups of players, including among senior citizens. Pickleball is a game that can be described as combining aspects of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It is played on a badminton-sized court, with paddles and a ball similar to a wiffle ball, but slightly smaller in size. The net used in pickleball is similar to a tennis net in some ways, but is lowered at the center.

[0036] Pickleball has recently become very popular and is played both indoors and outdoors, as either doubles or singles. The rules are relatively simple and the game is easy for beginners to learn. However, among skilled players, pickleball can develop into a quick, fast-paced, and competitive game.

[0037] FIG. 1A shows an example pickleball court 100 that includes a pickleball playing surface 130 and a pickleball net 132. The playing surface 130 comprises two left serve areas 102 and 108, two right serve areas 104 and 106, and two non-volley areas 110 and 112, with one of the left serve areas, one of the right serve areas, and one of the non-volley areas being on each side of the pickleball net 132. The net is 36 inches tall at the edges, and lowered to 34 inches in the middle. The areas 102-112 are defined by baselines 118 and 120 each 20 feet, sidelines 114 and 116 each 44 feet, center lines 122 and 124 each 15 feet, and non-volley lines 126 and 128 each the same size as a baseline. Each of the lines may be 2 inches wide. The term court line is used in this disclosure to refer to any sideline, baseline, centerline or non-volley line on the pickleball court. Non-volley areas 110 and 112, each extending 7 feet from the net, are also referred to as the kitchen.

[0038] The game of pickleball is played with a pickleball paddle 134 and pickleball ball 136. The ball 136 is typically made of plastic and has a 3-inch diameter. Similar to a wiffleball, the ball 136 has through holes throughout the surface. Different types (e.g., with different levels of hardness and different sizes of the through holes) may be used for playing the game on the various types of pickleball courts (e.g., indoor, outdoor, hard surface, soft surface etc.).

[0039] Pickleball can be played as singles or doubles, and is most commonly played as doubles. Each point begins with an underarm serve. The serve is performed diagonally beginning at the right-hand service square. A valid serve sends the ball from one left serve area to the other left serve area or from one right serve area to the other right serve area. The serve must clear the non-volley-zone. The serve must bounce before being hit by the receiver. The return of serve must also bounce before being hit (this is known as the 2 bounce rule). After the serve and the return of the serve, the ball can land anywhere on the opposite side of the playing surface 130. Volleys can only be performed outside of the non-volley zone. Volleys, that is, hitting the ball in the air without first letting it bounce, can only be made after the 2 bounce rule has been followed. However, if the ball is hit from within the kitchen, then it cannot land in the kitchen on the other side of the net.

[0040] A fault is any action that stops play due to a rule violation. A fault by the receiving team results in the servers earning a point. A fault by the serving team results in the server's loss of service and/or side out. A fault is committed when the serve touches any part of the non-volley zone (including the line) or the ball is hit out of bounds.

[0041] Pickleball games are typically played without a referee and are self-judged. Each player makes the line calls as to whether the ball is in or out when the ball contacts the playing surface on that player's side. The game continues to at least 11 points and requires a 2-point difference for a win. FIG. 1B shows another view of a pickleball court.

[0042] As noted above, pickleball is played by people of all ages and all skill levels. It is important that pickleball organizations provide as many options as possible to facilitate enjoyable play among players with different skill levels, practice needs, athletic capabilities, etc. The pickleball ball can be constructed in manners that provide for facilitating such options for players.

[0043] An example pickleball ball 200 is shown in FIG. 2. Specifications for pickleball balls are established by United States Pickleball Association (USPA). The specification defines requirements for construction, approval, size, bounce, compression, and design of pickleball balls. These specifications are intended for maintaining consistent playing characteristics across all pickleballs. Most pickleball balls approved for competition use are compliant with the USPA specifications.

[0044] Construction specifications require that the ball is made of a durable material molded with a smooth surface and free of texturing. The ball may have a slight ridge at the seam, as long as it does not significantly impact the ball's flight characteristics. Size specifications require that the ball shall be 2.87 inches (7.29 cm) to 2.97 inches (7.54 cm) in diameter. The maximum out-of-round diameter variance shall not be greater than +/0.020 inch (0.51 mm). This provides a circumference 202 between 9.03 inches (22.93 cm) and 9.34 inches (23.72 cm). Weight specifications require that the ball shall weigh between 0.78 and 0.935 ounces (22.1 and 26.5 grams).

[0045] The specifications also require certain bounce characteristics and compression characteristics for the ball. Further, the specifications require that the ball shall have a minimum of 26 to a maximum of 40 circular holes (e.g., holes 204), with spacing of the holes and overall design of the ball conforming to flight characteristics.

[0046] One technique of manufacturing pickleball balls is a process referred to as injection molding. The core ingredient is very often polyethylene-a type of plastic known for its toughness and elasticity. However, the type of plastic can differ depending on whether the ball is for indoor or outdoor play. Indoor balls use softer plastic (e.g., polypropylene) for better control on smooth surfaces, while outdoor balls have shells made of harder plastic to endure the wear and tear of rough courts like asphalt or concrete.

[0047] The injection molding process involves melting down the plastic into a liquid state and then forcing the liquid plastic with high pressure into a mold made of two halves. These molds are designed to create the exact shape and size of a pickleball, including the holes on the surface. The pressure ensures the plastic fills the mold in a manner that results in a consistent ball construction throughout. The two halves of the filled mold are then fused together forming a complete ball. Thereafter, the new ball cools down until the plastic hardens and retains its shape.

[0048] Rotational molding is another process that is used for manufacturing pickleballs. In this technique, plastic powder is poured into a heated mold that rotates on two axes. As the mold rotates, the plastic melts and coats the inside evenly. The mold is then cooled, and the finished ball is removed. In general, rotational molding is considered a less-costly process than injection molding, but it offers less flexibility in the ball design. Thus, injection molding is generally preferred.

[0049] Pickleballs balls that are available in the market are made of one plastic type. The material composition may be tailored to particular playing surfaces. As mentioned above, for indoor pickleball, balls are made with a softer plastic, like polypropylene, for better control on smooth gym floors. The softer plastic materials are considered to provide more precise volleys and softer touches. For outdoor pickleball, balls that have tougher shells of harder plastic, like polyethylene, to withstand the demands of asphalt or concrete courts are used. Such tougher shells are more resilient to wear and tear and have a faster, livelier bounce for outdoor rallies.

[0050] The characteristic of the plastic type is a key factor that determines the durability, bounce, hardness and weight of the ball. Typically, a pickleball ball is considered to last for 3-5 games at maximum performance before it is typically recommended to be switched out.

[0051] Currently available pickleball balls are constructed from one material such as polyethylene or polypropylene, and has holes spaced evenly throughout the surface. Balls with different numbers of holes are available. While most available pickleball balls have circular holes, balls that have holes that are shaped as stretched circles (e.g., stretched from top and bottom of circle) are also available. The holes may function to reduce the drag imposed on the ball when in flight, and to reduce the weight of the ball. The even distribution of the holes may be instrumental in providing for consistent rotation and spin behavior of the ball. Consistent rotation and spin behavior can improve predictability of the ball's path to a player.

[0052] There are several issues to be preferably addressed in relation to currently available pickleball balls. For example, the short lifespan of 3-5 games can be inconvenient and expensive for players. Therefore, one need is to extend the lifespan of a pickleball ball, especially, when pickleball is played outdoor on a hard surface. Another issue is that pickleball balls generate a loud noise when they hit the ground and/or the paddle. Pickleball is a noisy sport and could disturb the neighborhood peace. Also, the hard surface of the pickleball may cause injuries to occur when a ball hits the face, in particular the eye.

[0053] It is also often the case that more flexibility is desired to control drag force on the ball (aerodynamic properties of the ball). For example, in such situations such as when playing in windy weather, an increased capability of the ball to control drag force may be desirable. Additionally, more consistency on how the ball bounces may be desired.

[0054] Still further, improved and more consistent grip and traction is needed when the ball is struck with a paddle. This allows players to apply more spin and have greater shot control.

[0055] Yet a further need is to simulate the ball behavior in outdoor environments (e.g., with unpredictable wind effects) in a ball for indoor play.

[0056] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a pickleball ball with at least two punctured layers is provided. The at least two punctured layers include at least an outer layer (outer shell) and an inner layer (inner shell). An example two-layer (two-shell) pickleball ball 300 is shown in FIG. 3, with only the lower half of the ball being illustrated in disassembled form. In some embodiments, the inner shell 306 surrounds a hollow core 310 of the ball 300. Each hole 304 of a first set of holes (also referred to as punctures or apertures) extends laterally across (through) the outer shell 302 and each hole 308 of a second set of holes extends through the inner shell 306. The two layers overlap in at least one of the holes, thereby enabling airflow between the hollow core 310 of the ball and the external environment of the ball 300.

[0057] The outer shell and the inner shell are constructed from different materials, or different material combinations. In some embodiments, the outer shell is configured for reduced noise generation when the ball hits the pickleball court surface and/or the striking surface of the pickleball paddle, and the inner shell is configured for structural support. For example, the outer shell is constructed from a softer material than the inner shell. In some embodiments, the inner shell is constructed from a softer material than the outer shell and serves to reduce generated noise by substantially dampening vibrations that are generated upon ball contact with the surface of the court or the paddle. FIG. 4 illustrates the bottom half of a two-layer ball 400 with the cross-section 413 illustrating the configuration of a circular hole 404 that is on shell 402. As illustrated in cross-section 413, the inner shell 414 is constructed with a different material than the outer shell 412. Materials of different layers may be selected based on their desired characteristics. For example, outer shell material may be of a material to reduce noise and reduce the likelihood of ball getting broken or cracked. The inner shell material may be selected based on its firmness. In an example, the inner shell 414 may be constructed with the same material than the outer shell 412. In an example (now shown in FIG. 4), the inner or outer material may cover the edges of the holes depending on the process used for manufacturing the ball.

[0058] In some embodiments, the first set of holes and the second set of holes have the same pattern of arrangement and may have same sized and same shaped holes. The first set of holes and the second set of holes overlap on a majority of the holes such that airflow between the outside of the ball and the hollow core of the ball is enabled through each pair of overlapping holes. Each pair of overlapping holes form an extended two-segment tunnel through which the air can flow. In some embodiments, such as when the sizes and shapes of the first set of holes are the same as the sizes and shapes of the second set of holes, each hole of the first set fully overlaps a hole in the second set and the airflow is maximized. The balls 300 and 400 are examples of all holes in the outer shell overlapping with a corresponding hole in the inner shell. In some embodiments, one or more holes of the first set may only partially overlap respective holes in the second set, thereby enabling less than the maximum amount of airflow between the hollow core of the ball and the outside of the ball. In yet some other embodiments one or more holes of the outer shell may not overlap a corresponding hole in the inner shell. For example, FIG. 5 illustrates pickleball ball 500 in which outer shell 502 has more holes 504 than the number of holes 508 on the inner shell 506. Having more holes on the outer shell than there are holes in the inner shell may provide for having a higher level of drag-inducing roughness on the outer shell without corresponding drag-reducing holes that permit airflow through the hollow core of the pickleball. Thus, embodiments may configure the first set of holes and the second set of holes in particular manners to facilitate particular behavior of the ball.

[0059] In an example, one of the layers may comprise a graphene layer. The graphene layer may be applied through various methods like chemical vapor deposition, liquid phase exfoliation, or transfer techniques. The graphene layer may offer several advantages, including increased stiffness and rigidity for enhanced control and accuracy, improved durability and wear resistance, reduced wind interference due to a streamlined surface, minimal air resistance, better responsiveness and/or power transfer during impact.

[0060] In some embodiments, one or more additional layers/shells may be added between the outer shell and the inner shell. FIG. 6 illustrates a part of pickleball ball 600 that has an intermediate shell 616 with holes 618 that is inserted between the outer shell 602 with holes 604 and inner shell 606 with holes 608. Such intermediate layers, or intermediate shells, may be configured to serve to reduce or increase a ball's weight, to provide more structural support, to provide better noise suppression behavior, particular flight behaviors and/or particular bounce behaviors. The configuration aspects for each shell may include, but are not limited to, the construction material, thickness of the shell, number and/or pattern of holes, and size and/or shape of holes.

[0061] Moreover, in some embodiments, the holes in the first set and/or the second set are configured to have different shapes and/or sizes at the entrance to the hole and to the exit from the hole. For example, a hole can have a funnel shape (e.g., radius of the aperture gradually increases from entrance to exit or vice versa) in which the entrance to the hole is larger than the exit from the hole. In some embodiments, the exit from a hole in the first set fully or partially overlaps holes in the second set. FIG. 8 illustrates an outer shell 802 having a funnel shaped hole 804 with a larger entry 803 than exit 805 and an inner shell 806 having a funnel shaped hole 808 with an entry 807 that fully overlaps with exit 805. The exit 809 of hole 808 is smaller than its entry 807 thus yielding the funnel shape. The funnel-shape may increase the pressure as air flows through the funnel-shaped tunnel and thus affect the flight of the ball in a particular way. FIG. 9 illustrates a tunnel formed of two holes 904 and 908 of outer 902 and inner 906 shells, in which the entry 902 to the outer shell has a different shape (elongated/stretched circle). The exit 905 of the outer shell, and the entrance 907 and exit 909 of the inner shell 906 are circular. The differently shaped entrance (or exit) may reduce the smoothness of airflow through a hole such that the flight of the ball is affected in a particular manner. FIG. 10 illustrates an example pickleball ball 1000 in which the hole 1008 in the inner shell 1006 has a smaller diameter (and thus its entrance 1007 and exit 1009 being smaller) than the exit 1005 of the outer shell 1002 hole 1004 that has a funnel shape from its entry 1003 to its exit 1005. The partial overlap of the inner shell tunnel with the outer shell tunnel may provide for increased pressure in the airflow such that the ball movement affected in a particular manner.

[0062] Thus, some embodiments of the present disclosure may combine different characteristics in the construction materials of the outer and inner shells, the configuration of the set of holes in the outer shell and the set of holes in the inner shell, and a number and construction of one or more intermediate shells arranged between the outer and inner shells in order to construct pickleball balls with particular desired behaviors.

[0063] The respective shells of the pickleball ball can be constructed from different plastic types, or different plastic compounds. The construction material for the outer shell may be tailored to particular type of playing surface (e.g., indoor, outdoor). For indoor pickleball, balls are made with the outer shell constructed from a softer plastic, like, for example, polypropylene, for better control on smooth gym floors. The softer plastic materials are considered to provide more precise volleys and softer touches. Pickleball balls for indoor use, according to some embodiments, have the outer shell having a softer material than the inner shell. This material configuration can provide reduced noise and reduced likelihood of injury, for example, because of the softer outer shell, while providing good structural support for the ball.

[0064] For outdoor pickleball, balls that have an outer shell of tougher or harder plastic (e.g., polyethylene) that can withstand the demands of asphalt or concrete courts are used. Such tougher shells are more resilient to wear and tear and have a faster, livelier bounce for outdoor rallies. Pickleball balls for outdoor use, according to some embodiments, have the outer shell having a harder material than the inner shell. This material configuration can provide reduced wear-and-tear, livelier bounce and noise suppression, for example, because of the softer inner shell of the ball.

[0065] In some embodiments, the outer shell is constructed from a plastic or plastic compound and the inner shell is constructed from a rubber or rubber compound. The hardness of the plastic and/or the rubber may be configurable to the levels desired for the sought ball characteristics such as, but not limited to, weight and bounce.

[0066] In one embodiment, the inner shell is formed with a relatively harder plastic, such as, for example, polyethylene. The outer shell is formed from rubber and/or softer materials, such as, polypropylene. In another embodiment, the inner shell is formed using a relatively harder plastic, such as, for example, polyethylene, and the outer shell is formed with foam for lowering noise and softer touch. In yet another embodiment, the inner shell is formed of a relatively harder plastic, such as, for example, polyethylene, and the outer shell is formed with felt, which is a soft, fuzzy layer of woven nylon. In addition to reduced noise and softer touch, the soft, fuzzy outer shell may also increase drag effects on the ball in flight such that it is more suited for use by players who prefer a slower return.

[0067] In another embodiment, the inner shell is formed with softer plastic, such as, for example, polypropylene, and the outer shell is formed with relatively harder plastic, such as, for example, polyethylene.

[0068] In another embodiment, the inner shell is made of a plastic, such as, for example, polypropylene, polyethylene, and the outer shell is formed with a coating, e.g., for increasing ball durability. For example, the coating may be implemented by submerging the ball in a liquid material. Coatings of different thicknesses can be obtained by implementing the submerging process multiple times and/or at different temperatures. In some other embodiments, the outer shell is formed with a coating by submerging the ball in a chemical gas or vapor. The submerging of the ball to attach the inner shell and outer shell may be performed in two different manners, the ball may be submerged before the holes are made, e.g. to cover outside of the inner shell, or the ball may be submerged after the holes are made, e.g. to cover both sides of a layer. FIG. 12 illustrates an apparatus for coating the pickleball ball by submerging the ball in a liquid material. FIG. 13 illustrates an apparatus for coating the pickleball ball by submerging the ball in a liquid, gas or vapor.

[0069] In embodiments, the inner shell and outer shell materials may be chosen based on one or more of the criteria, air drag characteristics, grip with the paddle and/or the ground, bouncing properties, durability, and/or softness when the ball hits at human body.

[0070] In some embodiments, the inner shell and outer shell may be attached to each other by any one of the techniques, using a glue type material, using fusion and/or heat, and/or using a coating layer. For example, the inner shell and the outer shell may be constructed separately using either injection molding or rotational molding, and can subsequently be attached to each other using a glue type material, using fusion and/or heat, and/or using a coating layer.

[0071] The outer shell, in this disclosure, is not a paint or trademark for only design of the pickleball but plays a role in improving and/or changing the functional properties of the pickleball ball.

[0072] The characteristic of the plastic type is a key factor that determines the durability, bounce, hardness and weight of the ball.

[0073] In some embodiments, the ball may have a hollow core (e.g., hollow core 310 of ball 300) with no separate internal air container. In some embodiments, the inner shell may be inflatable. The inflatable inner shell may be filled with air. For example, in FIG. 4, the inner shell 406 may be an inflatable layer.

[0074] In some embodiments, the pickleball ball may include a core part made of a type of material that is different from the material of the outer shell and/or inner shell. Such other material may include any one or more materials such as, for example, sponge, or other light-weight materials. Since this ball does not have a hollow core, the flight, bounce and weight characteristics are different

[0075] In another embodiment, one or more intermediate layer/shells are arranged between the inner shell and the outer shell. The inner shell and the outer shell may be made with the same or different plastic, e.g., polypropylene, polyethylene, and the one or more intermediate layers may be constructed from a softer material than the inner shell and the outer shell. The softer intermediate layers may be selected and/or configured to provide reduced noise and different weight and/or bounce characteristics.

[0076] As already noted above, the inner shell and outer shell materials are chosen to improve one or more of: air drag characteristics of the ball, improve ball movement when playing in windy conditions, grip of the ball with the paddle and/or the ground, bouncing properties of the ball, durability of the ball, and/or ball impact when ball is hit at human body.

[0077] As noted above, pickleball is played in both outdoor and indoor courts. However, presently the game is mostly played outdoor. The ball is light and can change direction due to even low speed winds. Wind can move the ball unpredictably and this can make the game very challenging and unpredictable in outdoor windy environments. Many players who practice the game are seriously challenged when they play the game outdoors and in windy weather. There is currently no convenient process to practice in a way that prepares the players who mostly play indoor to play in unpredictable windy conditions. Many of the players' indoor drills and practices are not useful for outdoor games, and do not apply to outdoor games.

[0078] Certain design factors can be introduced to configure a ball for an optimized performance objective. For example, different hole patterns may be used to achieve specific goals. For example, different weight distribution may be to achieve specific objectives. Example objectives may include: a ball is made in a way that simulates the effect of the wind, the ball that includes an example embodiment may move unpredictably because of its structure, the ball may have additional spin depending on the type of hole thickness, and/or the ball may meet specific drag objective based on the type of hole thickness.

[0079] In some embodiments, one or more of the following techniques are used to control ball movement: nonuniform weight distribution throughout the ball's shell(s), and/or different hole thickness and/or thickness patterns. Pickleball balls constructed in accordance with such techniques can be used to simulate the behavior (e.g., flight behavior) of a ball in the outdoor environment.

[0080] Example pickleball nonuniform weight distribution patterns may include, but are not limited to, additional weight being added to one side of the ball, additional weight being added to selected areas of the ball, and/or ball being made of different materials for different areas of the ball. FIG. 11 illustrates a pickleball ball 1100 with holes 1104 on its surface 1102, and more heavily weighted in an area 1120.

[0081] The areas of the ball with the higher weights (i.e., heavier areas) can be expected to more frequently be the areas that make contact with the paddle and to also more frequently determine a general direction of the ball flight direction, rather than the lighter areas. For example, if one area of the ball is heavier than the other areas, that heavier area is more likely, than any other of the areas of the ball, to make contact with the paddle and also to determine the direction of the ball.

[0082] Some examples of different hole thickness patterns are shown in FIG. 7. The patterns include holes with different lateral size and/or alignment patterns. In an example embodiment, hole thickness patterns may be applied to an existing one-layer ball to enhance its characteristics. In an example, hole thickness patterns may be applied to an example multi-layer ball to enhance its characteristics. For example, hole 704 may be one hole of a set of patterns in a first pickleball ball. Hole 704 has its entrance 703 at the outer surface of the shell and the exit 705 at the inner surface of the shell, at the same size and thus the tunnel formed between the entrance and exit is of the same size throughout. Hole 704b may be one hole of a set of patterns in a second pickleball ball. Hole 704b has its entrance and the exit the same shape but with the exit being smaller, and thus the tunnel formed between the entrance and exit is of a funnel shape that gets narrower from entry to exit. Hole 704c has its entrance and the exit the same shape but with the exit being smaller and being not centrally aligned with the entrance. Thus, the tunnel formed between the entrance and exit is of an angled funnel shape that gets narrower from entry to exit. Hole 704d has its entrance and the exit the same shape but with the entrance being smaller, and thus the tunnel formed between the entrance and exit is of a funnel shape that gets wider from entry to exit. In embodiments, holes similar to holes 704a-704d may be used in pickleball balls that have only a single unitary shell (i.e., a shell made of one material), or pickleball balls that are formed with two or more shells.

[0083] The above described embodiments provide pickleball balls with improved performance, certain desired characteristic behaviors (e.g., flight, bounce, spin, grip with paddle, etc.), and/or improved noise suppression. It should be noted that embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to pickleball balls with the particular construction materials, number of layers/shells, and/or aperture patterns described in this disclosure. Although various embodiments have been shown and described in detail, the claims are not limited to any particular embodiment or example. For example, respective features described in various embodiments may be combined to form further embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure.