TWI468205B - Golf ball - Google Patents

Description

golf Cross-reference to related applications

The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/513,168, filed on Jul. 29, 2011, entitled <RTIgt; The application is hereby incorporated into the present case for reference.

Field of invention

The present invention generally relates to a golf ball having an inner core layer with specific compression deformation characteristics, and more particularly, the present invention relates to a golf ball having an inner core layer with temperature controllable Compression deformation characteristics.

Background of the invention

A golf course that a golf hitter typically selects has a combination based on one of his or her preferences and/or skill. Golf players typically attempt to provide a ball that has characteristics that are balanced to suit the golfer's preferences and/or skill. Often, a golf ball includes a plurality of layers, with each layer helping to provide one or more desired qualities.

In some instances, a golfer may select a golf ball of a particular compression or compression set based on his or her preferences, skill, and/or swing characteristics. For example, golf balls having a higher amount of compression deformation are preferred and/or suitable for use by golf hitters with relatively high club speed swings. Matching the amount of compression deformation to the club head speed of the golfer can usually be optimized, or otherwise improved, the golfer's hair Ball distance. In some instances, a golfer with a lower swing speed may select a more compressible golf ball (ie, have a higher amount of compression deformation), while a golfer with a faster swing speed may A lower compressible golf ball is selected (i.e., has a lower amount of compression deformation). In addition, it is common for golf shooters to attempt golf balls of different compression deformation magnitudes to determine the type of golf ball that best suits their skill and/or preferences. In order to try golf balls of different compression deformations, golf hitters need to buy a plurality of different balls, each having a different magnitude of compression deformation. This way of constantly exploring the right ball is expensive and inefficient.

Developed heating system golf hitters can be used to heat the golf ball to a particular temperature prior to hitting in order to achieve a particular modified performance characteristic. However, as the player moves and spends time, the golf ball cooling and modified performance characteristics essentially return to the pre-heated level before the athlete completes a round of golf. It is desirable to provide a golf ball system having a heat-modifiable amount of compression set. It is also desirable to provide a golf ball that maintains a modified amount of compression for a sustained period of time in order for the golfer to complete the round event using the modified amount of compression.

The present disclosure is directed to improvements in the customization of golf performance characteristics.

Summary of invention

In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a golf ball that includes a cover layer, an outer core layer that is disposed radially inward of the cover layer, and an inner core layer that is attached to the outer core. The layers are arranged radially inward. The The inner core layer may have a first compressive deformation amount at a temperature of 24 ° C and a second compressive deformation amount at a temperature of 70 ° C, wherein the second compressive deformation amount and the first compressive deformation amount A first ratio between between is between about 1.5 and about 2.5.

In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a golf ball that includes a cover layer, an outer core layer that is disposed radially inward of the cover layer, and an inner core layer that is attached to the outer ball. The core layer is radially inwardly disposed. The inner core layer may have a first compressive deformation amount at a temperature of 24 ° C, a second compressive deformation amount after heating to 70 ° C, and a third after cooling at a temperature of 24 ° C for 90 minutes. The amount of compression deformation. A ratio between the third amount of compressive deformation and the first amount of compressive deformation may be between about 1.08 and about 1.35.

In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a golf ball that includes a cover layer, an outer core layer that is disposed radially inward of the cover layer, and an inner core layer that is attached to the outer ball. The core layer is radially inwardly disposed. The inner core layer may have a first compressive deformation amount at a temperature of 24 ° C, a second compressive deformation amount after heating to 70 ° C, and a fourth after cooling at a temperature of 24 ° C for 150 minutes. The amount of compression deformation. A ratio between the fourth amount of compressive deformation and the first amount of compressive deformation may be between about 1.08 and about 1.35.

In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a golf ball that includes a cover layer, an outer core layer that is disposed radially inward of the cover layer, and an inner core layer that is attached to the outer ball. The core layer is radially inwardly disposed. The inner core layer may have a first compression deformation at a temperature of 24 ° C The amount, a second amount of compressive deformation after heating to 70 ° C, and a fifth amount of compressive deformation after cooling at a temperature of 24 ° C for 210 minutes. A ratio between the fifth amount of compressive deformation and the first amount of compressive deformation may be between about 1.08 and about 1.35.

Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All such additional systems, methods, features and advantages are intended to be included within the scope of the invention and are intended to be covered by the appended claims.

Simple illustration

The invention will be better understood in relation to the following drawings and description. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, In addition, in the drawings, the same element symbols represent the same parts throughout the different views.

1 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of a golf ball in a three-piece configuration; and FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a section of a golf ball View, the golf ball has a four-piece construction.

Detailed description of the preferred embodiment

The present disclosure is directed to a golf ball that is constructed of materials and layers having specific performance characteristics. The following paragraphs explain the measurement process for complex characteristics.

For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "compression deformation" is related to The amount of deformation that the object exhibits when compressed under a predetermined load parameter setting. As used in the present disclosure, the amount of compressive deformation should be related to the amount of deformation (in mm) of an object when compressed by a force, in particular, when the compressive force is increased from 10 kg to 130 kg. The amount of deformation at the time. The deformation amount of the object under the force of 10 kg is subtracted from the deformation amount of the object under the force of 130 kg to obtain the compressive deformation amount of the object. Although the amount of compression deformation is a parameter that can be measured for the entire golf ball, it is also possible to measure the amount of compression deformation for individual components of the golf ball. In the present disclosure, the amount of compressive deformation of the inner core layer of the golf ball is measured and discussed in detail, which may be spherical as well as the entire golf ball.

The hardness of the golf ball layer is generally measured in accordance with ASTM D-2240. In some examples, the hardness on a cross-sectional surface of the golf ball layer can be measured. In other examples, the hardness on the curved surface of the golf ball layer can be measured.

The elastic recovery coefficient (COR), as mentioned in the present disclosure, is measured in the following manner. To measure the COR, a golf ball was fired toward a stainless steel plate set at about 1.2 meters from the cannon at an initial speed of 40 meters per second by an air cannon, or other propulsion device. A speed monitoring device is located at a distance of 0.6 to 0.9 meters from the gun. The speed monitoring device measures the speed at which the golf ball is ejected from the iron plate. The return speed divided by the initial speed is COR.

The present disclosure is directed to a golf ball layer having specific performance characteristics. These characteristics can be achieved by the structural configuration of the layers and/or the material composition of the layers. Furthermore, the overall performance characteristics of the golf ball are determined by individual layers. The composition is produced in a specific manner and at the same time reflects the combination and arrangement of the layers and materials that make up the golf ball. The concepts discussed in this disclosure are applicable to golf balls having any configuration, having any suitable number of layers. In some embodiments, an exemplary golf ball having the disclosed performance characteristics can have a three piece or layer configuration. In other embodiments, the golf ball can have a four piece construction. In addition, other configurations including five or more layers can be expected.

Moreover, while the disclosure illustrates a plurality of specific embodiments relating to golf balls, those skilled in the art should be able to use the concepts disclosed herein for other types of balls (other than golf balls) and for other types. Laminates. For example, the concepts disclosed may be applied to any layered item, such as an emitter, a ball, an entertainment device, or individual components of such items.

A first cross-sectional view of a cross-section, portion of an exemplary three-piece golf ball configuration is illustrated. As shown in FIG. 1, a golf ball 100 can include a cover layer 105, an outer core layer 110 disposed radially inwardly of the cover layer 105, and an inner core layer 115 attached thereto. The core layer 110 is disposed radially inward. The dimensions and materials of each layer can be selected to achieve the desired performance characteristics.

The cover layer 105 can be constructed of a relatively soft yet durable material. For example, the cover layer 105 may be constructed of a material that compresses/deflates when struck by a golf club in order to provide rotation of the ball and impart a feeling to the player. Although relatively soft, the material is also durable to withstand wear from clubs and/or golf courses. Exemplary cover materials can include urethane, ionic polymer blends, or any other suitable material including blends Compound.

Further, Fig. 1 illustrates the outer surface of the cover layer 105 as having a general ball and socket pattern. While the dimple pattern on the golf ball 100 can affect the flight path of the golf ball 100, any suitable ball and socket pattern can be used in conjunction with the specific embodiments disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the golf ball 100 can be configured with a ball and socket pattern that includes a total number of ball sockets between about 300 and 400.

The outer core layer 110 can be constructed of a relatively strong and suitably resilient material. The outer core layer 110 can be assembled to provide a relatively high launch and a relatively low rate of rotation when the golf ball is struck by a driver, and to provide a relatively high rate of rotation and increase when hitting with a hardcore. Controllability. This provides a rotational and controllable distance from the development tee near the green.

The inner core layer 115 may be constructed of a relatively strong material, such as hard rubber, in order to provide a distance. The thickness of the golf ball layers can be varied to achieve the desired performance characteristics. In some embodiments, the inner core layer 115 can be a spherical surface having a diameter of between about 21 mm and about 30 mm, and more typically the diameter is between about 24 mm and about 28 mm. Between PCT.

While the concepts disclosed herein are applicable to three-piece golf balls, such as golf ball 100, for purposes of discussion, the concepts disclosed herein will be discussed in greater detail in relation to a four-piece golf ball construction. However, it should be understood that the concepts discussed below apply to a three-piece construction, a four-piece construction, a five-piece construction, or any other suitable configuration.

Figure 2 is a cross section of a golf ball 200 having a four-piece construction A cross-sectional view of the face and part. As shown in FIG. 2, the golf ball 200 may have four layers disposed adjacent to each other. For example, in some embodiments, golf ball 200 can include an outer cover layer 205 and an inner cover layer 210 that is disposed radially inwardly of outer cover layer 205. Golf ball 200 can also include an outer core layer 215 disposed radially inwardly of inner cover layer 210, and an inner core layer 220 disposed radially inwardly of outer core layer 215. Either layer may surround or substantially surround any layer that is disposed radially inwardly of the layer. For example, the outer core layer 215 can surround or substantially surround the inner core layer 220.

In the present disclosure and drawings, golf ball 200 is illustrated and illustrated as having four layers. In some embodiments, at least one additional layer can be added. For example, in some embodiments, a mantle layer can be added between the outer core layer 215 and the inner cover layer 210. In some embodiments, an intermediate cover layer can be inserted between the inner cover layer 210 and the outer cover layer 205. Moreover, in some embodiments, an intermediate core layer can be inserted between the inner core layer 220 and the outer core layer 215. Additional layers may be added on either side of any of the disclosed layers to achieve specific performance characteristics and/or attributes, as desired.

In some embodiments, golf ball 200 can have a diameter of at least 42.67 mm (1.680 inches) according to golf ball rules. For example, in some embodiments, golf ball 200 can have a ball diameter between about 42.67 mm and about 42.9 mm, and, in some embodiments, have a ball of about 42.7 mm. diameter. Golf ball 200 can have a ball weight between about 45 grams and about 45.8 grams, and, in some embodiments, It has a ball weight of about 45.4 grams. The golf ball may be "compliant," that is, consistent with the Golf Club-related US Golf Association (USGA) rules, including weight, diameter, initial rate, and the like, or it may be "non-compliant."

In some embodiments, outer core layer 215 can have a thickness of at least about 5 mm. In some embodiments, the inner core layer 220 can be a sphere having a diameter 225 system in the range of about 21 mm to 30 mm. In some embodiments, the diameter 225 of the inner core layer 220 can be in the range of about 24 mm to 28 mm. For example, in some embodiments, the diameter 225 can be 24 mm. In other embodiments, the diameter 225 can be 28 mm.

One parameter that has an effect on the performance of the ball is the amount of compression deformation. The amount of compressive deformation is a physical parameter that can be quantified according to the measurement protocol proposed above (for example, in units of centimeters). A higher value of compressive deformation indicates that the ball deforms more when subjected to a known compressive force. That is, a ball system having a higher compressive deformation amount is more compressible than a ball having a lower compressive deformation amount.

In a specific embodiment of the invention, the inner core layer has a first compressive deformation amount between about 3 mm and 5 mm at a temperature of 24 ° C, between about 6 mm and 8 A second amount of compressive deformation between metrics and a third amount of compressive deformation between about 3.5 mm and 5.5 mm after cooling at a temperature of 24 ° C for 90 minutes. a first ratio between the second amount of compressive deformation and the first amount of compressive deformation is between about 1.5 and about 2.5, more typically between about 1.8 and about 2.14, and A second ratio between the third amount of compressive deformation and the first amount of compressive deformation is typically between Between about 1.08 and about 1.35, more typically between about 1.13 and 1.33.

In a specific embodiment of the invention, the inner core layer of a golf ball has a fourth amount of compressive deformation after cooling at a temperature of 24 ° C for 150 minutes. The ratio between the fourth amount of compressive deformation and the first amount of compressive deformation may be between about 1.08 and about 1.35, and more typically between about 1.11 and about 1.26.

In still another embodiment of the present invention, the golf ball includes an inner core layer having a fifth compressive deformation after cooling at a temperature of 24 ° C for 210 minutes. The ratio between the fifth amount of compressive deformation and the first amount of compressive deformation is between about 1.08 and about 1.35, more typically between about 1.09 and about 1.19.

Inner core layer

Overall, the total compressive deformation characteristics of the golf ball can be determined by the combined effect of the layers. However, a particular layer can be formed to provide a higher or lower amount of compression set. In some examples, the compressibility of the inner core layer has a significant effect on the total compressive deformation of the ball. In some embodiments, the amount of compressive deformation of the inner core layer can be varied to alter the performance characteristics of the ball. Moreover, in some embodiments, the varying characteristics may continue to encompass an extended period of time.

A change in the amount of compression deformation of the inner core layer can be caused by heating the ball. For example, the inner core layer may exhibit an increase in compressive deformation when heated. Therefore, by controlling the range of the amount of compressive deformation between different temperature stages, different values of compressive deformation can be achieved on the same ball. Therefore, because, for example, by applying different heat to the ball, it is possible to be on a single ball. Different compression deformations are achieved, so there is no need to purchase different balls in order to allow the player to hit the ball with different compression deformation values.

In order to provide a large change in the amount of compression deformation, the golf ball may comprise a thermoplastic inner core layer. A thermoplastic inner core layer has a significantly larger range of compressive deformation of the inner core layer than a thermoset inner core layer. Also, similarly, the characteristic of changing the amount of compression deformation is maintained for a long period of time. Thus, although thermoset materials are typically used in the inner core layer, this embodiment may employ a thermoplastic inner core layer in order to provide greater variability and persistence in the variation of the compressive deformation characteristics.

Instance

The inner core layer is tested for the amount of compression deformation. Table I provides the composition of the two thermoset materials that make up the inner core layer. Table II lists a thermoplastic material constituting an inner core layer.

Table III includes compression deformation data for the inner core layer of the sample composed of materials A, B, and C. The inner inner core layers are formed, numbered 1-4 in Table III. The center of the ball 1 is a 24 mm center of a material C, and the center of the ball 2, 3 and 4 is a 28 mm center made of material C, material B and material A, respectively. To obtain the data in Table III, the amount of compression deformation per core was determined at a temperature of 24 ° C ("Test A"). Each of the cores was then heated at a temperature of 70 ° C for 2 hours, and the amount of compressive deformation of each heated core ("Test B") was measured at a temperature of 70 ° C. After heating, each of the cores was then cooled in an atmosphere of 24 ° C. In the atmospheric environment of 24 ° C, after 90 minutes ("Test C"), 150 minutes later ("Test D"), and 210 minutes later ("Test E"), the amount of compressive deformation of each core was again measured.

In the second comparative example, the cores 3 and 4, and the acid polymer cores (1 and 2) were measured at two heights. The cores are evaluated for the amount of compressive deformation at the confirmed temperature; the values of the compressive deformation are presented in the fields labeled "Test A" through "Test E" in Table III below. The ratio of compressive deformation values was calculated at different temperatures and is presented in Table III. This test simulates the cooling of the heated ball over time during the course of the game.

Compression deformation (70 ° C alone)

Table III illustrates the ability to correct the magnitude of the compressive deformation of a ball using both a comparative thermoset material and a thermoplastic material. The data and comparison indicate that the thermoplastic inner core layer maintains a greater rate of compressive deformation for a longer period of time.

In addition to providing compression deformation data, Table III also includes data relating to the compression deformation ratio. The compression deformation ratio provides a measure by which the cores 1 and 2 are compared with the cores 3 and 4. The ratio of the amount of compressive deformation after heating to the value before heating provides an indication of a change in compressibility. Further, the compression ratio (C/A, D/A, and E/A) of the value after cooling and the preheat value provides an indication of the persistence of any increase in the amount of compression deformation obtained by heating.

After heating to atmospheric control temperature (24 ° C), the amount of compression deformation of each sample was tested (Test A). Next, each sample was heated in a 70 ° C oven for two hours. After the heating at 70 ° C, the amount of compression deformation of each sample was tested again (Test B). The test of the compressive deformation of the samples after heating at 70 ° C revealed that the thermoplastic inner core layers 1 and 2 showed an increase in the amount of compressive deformation caused by heating greater than that of the thermosetting inner spherical layers 3 and 4.

As shown in Table III, the core 1 has an unheated (24 ° C) 3.49 mm compressive deformation (Test A) and a heated (70 ° C) 7.47 MPa compressive deformation (Test B) ). Therefore, the compression deformation ratio of Test B/Test A is 2.14. Similarly, the core 2 has an unheated (24 ° C) compressive deformation amount of 3.52 mm, and a 6.33 mm heating (70 ° C) compressive deformation amount, and a B/A ratio of 1.80. Contrast, the spheres 3 and 4 respectively show the ratio of B/A The rate is 1.15 and 1.11. Therefore, the compressibility of the two thermoplastic cores is increased by a significant degree by 70 ° C heating compared to the two thermoset cores.

Compression deformation (90 minutes cooling)

The core 1 has a compressive deformation amount of 4.63 mm after the cooling for 90 minutes (test C), and therefore, a compression deformation ratio ratio is 1.33 (test C/test A). Similarly, the core 2 has a compressive deformation amount of 3.98 mm after cooling for 90 minutes, and therefore, a C/A compression deformation ratio is 1.13. In contrast, the cores 3 and 4 respectively show C/A compression deformation ratios of 1.04 and 1.03.

As illustrated in Table III and discussed above, the thermoplastic material samples maintain a significantly longer degree of compressibility compared to the thermoset samples. It can play a round of nine holes in 90 minutes. Thus, the above-mentioned characteristics regarding the thermoplastic inner core layer after 90 minutes of cooling (followed by heating at 70 ° C) indicate that the durability of the compressive deformation amount value is increased by at least one round of 9 holes.

Compression deformation (cooling for 150 minutes)

The core 1 had a compressive deformation amount of 4.41 mm after the cooling for 150 minutes (test D), and therefore, a compression deformation ratio (test D/test A) was 1.26. Similarly, after cooling for 150 minutes (test D), the core 2 produced a compressive deformation amount of 3.92 mm, and thus, a D/A compression deformation ratio was 1.11. In contrast, the comparative spheres 3 and 4 exhibited D/A compression deformation ratios of 1.01 and 1.02, respectively.

As shown in Table III and discussed above, the thermoplastic material samples continued to maintain an increased degree of compressibility beyond the thermoset samples during the 150 minute extension after heating. It may be a relatively slow A round of nine-hole races, or a relatively quick one-round match of 18 holes in about 150 minutes. Therefore, the above data regarding the characteristics of the thermoplastic inner core layer after 150 minutes of cooling (continuous heating at 70 ° C) indicates an increased compression deformation value after at least one round of 9-hole competition, or possibly a round of 18-hole competition. Persistence.

Compression deformation (cooling 210 minutes)

After cooling for 210 minutes, the cores 1 and 2 respectively produced a compressive deformation amount of 4.16 mm and 3.84 mm, and thus, a compression deformation ratio was 1.19 (test E/test A). In contrast, the cores 3 and 4, these comparative examples, respectively exhibit E/A compression deformation ratios of 1.01 and 1.02.

As shown in Table III and discussed above, at another extension time point of 210 minutes after heating, the thermoplastic material samples continued to maintain an increased degree of compressibility beyond the thermoset samples. It may take a round of 18 holes in about 210 minutes. Therefore, the above-mentioned data on the characteristics of the thermoplastic inner core layer after cooling for 210 minutes (synchronized at 70 ° C) indicates the persistence of the increased amount of compression deformation after a round of 18-hole competition.

Other characteristics of the inner core layer

In addition to the amount of compressive deformation, other characteristics for the inner core layer may be desirable. For example, the inner core layer is required to have a certain degree of hardness and/or specific gravity.

In some embodiments, the inner core layer 220 can have a surface Shore D hardness in the range of about 45 to 50. To provide a stable performance of the golf ball 200, the inner core layer 220 can have from 45 to 50 by cutting the inner core layer 220 into two halves at any single point on a cross section obtained. The hardness of a Xiao's D cross section. Furthermore, there may be a Shore D cross-sectional hardness difference in the range of +/- 6 between any two points in the cross-section, and in some embodiments, any two points in the cross-section This difference can be in the range of +/-3.

Certain properties of the golf ball, such as moment of inertia, can be determined in part by comparative physical properties of different layers of golf. For example, in some embodiments, the layers may be radially outwardly disposed from the center of the ball by having a higher specific gravity and by constituting the layers radially inward toward the ball. The center configuration has a relatively low specific gravity to obtain a large moment of inertia. A golf ball having a large moment of inertia can maintain its longer rotation rate than a golf ball having a lower moment of inertia. This provides a ball with improved short ball characteristics, such as rotation that enables the player to hit the ball with a limited roll beyond the ball point and, in some instances, even roll backwards after landing. Rotation also contributes to longer tee shots, such as when the ball reaches the apex and begins to return downwards without a steep drop in the track.

In some embodiments, the golf ball 200 is required to have a moment of inertia between about 82 g-cm ² and about 90 g-cm ² . This moment of inertia produces the required distance, orbit and control. The moment of inertia can produce desired performance characteristics, such as when the golf ball 200 is hit with a driver and/or the golf ball is flying against the wind. In order to provide the golf ball 200 with a large moment of inertia, the inner core layer 220 may have a lower specific gravity than the outer layer. In some embodiments, the inner core layer 220 may have a specific gravity in the range of between about 0.9 g/cm ³ and about 1.1 g/cm ³ .

Inner core material

In some embodiments, the inner core layer 220 can be formed, at least in part, from a highly neutralized acid polymer. The acid polymer can be neutralized to 80% or higher using a positive ion such as magnesium, sodium, zinc or potassium, including up to 100%. Suitable highly neutralizing acid polymers for forming the inner core layer 220 can include a highly neutralizing acid polymer and optionally additives, fillers and/or melt flow modifiers.

Suitable additives and fillers may include, for example, blowing agents and foaming agents, brighteners, colorants, phosphors, brighteners, UV absorbers, light stabilizers, defoamers, processing aids, antioxidants. , stabilizers, softeners, aromatic ingredients, plasticizers, impact modifiers, acid copolymer waxes and surfactants. In some embodiments, the additives and fillers may include, for example, inorganic fillers such as zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, tin oxide, calcium oxide, magnesium oxide, barium sulfate, zinc sulfate, calcium carbonate, zinc carbonate, barium carbonate, Mica, talc, clay, alumina, lead citrate, and other types of organic fillers. In some embodiments, the additives and fillers may include, for example, high specific gravity metal powder fillers such as tungsten powder, molybdenum powder, and others. In some embodiments, the additives and fillers can include regrind, that is, the core material is ground and reused.

Any suitable melt flow modifier can be included in the highly neutralized acid polymer. Exemplary suitable melt flow modifiers can include, for example, fatty acids and salts thereof, polyamines, polyesters, polyacrylics, polyurethanes, polyethers, polyureas, polyols, and combinations thereof.

Exemplary highly neutralizing acid polymers suitable for forming inner core layer 220 may include, for example, HPF resins such as HPF1000, HPF2000, HPF. AD1024, HPF AD1027, HPF AD1030, HPF AD1035, HPF AD1040, all produced by E.I. Dupont Nemours and Company.

The inner core layer 220 can be formed by any suitable process, such as injection molding or compression molding. The injection molding machine can be set to a temperature range of about 190 ° C to 220 ° C during an exemplary injection molding process that forms the inner core layer 220.

Outer spherical layer

The outer core layer 215 can have a thickness that is suitable for protecting the inner core layer 220. In some examples, after heating the golf ball 200 to a temperature of about 70 ° C, the inner core layer 220 is susceptible to contact. Thus, the outer core layer 215 can provide a thickness that protects the inner core layer 220 from exposure to the heated contact. For example, in some embodiments, outer core layer 215 can have a thickness of at least 5 mm.

As with the other layers, the hardness of the outer core layer 215 has an effect on the performance of the ball 200. In some embodiments, what is required for the outer core layer 215 is a surface hardness that is higher than the inner core layer 220. For example, in some embodiments, the outer core layer 215 has a surface Shore D hardness in the range of about 50 to 60.

The outer core layer 215 can be constructed of a thermoset material. For example, in some embodiments, outer core layer 215 can be constructed by crosslinking with a polybutadiene rubber composition. When other rubbers are used in combination with polybutadiene, polybutadiene is included as a main component. For example, the weight ratio of polybutadiene in the entire base rubber may be equal to or greater than 50%, in some embodiments. The weight ratio may be equal to or greater than 80%. In some embodiments, the outer core layer 215 can be comprised of a polybutadiene rubber composition comprising polybutadiene having a ratio of cis-1,4 bonds equal to or greater than 60 mole percent. For example, in some embodiments, the ratio can be equal to or greater than 80 mole percent.

In some embodiments, cis-1,4-polybutadiene can be used as a base rubber and mixed with other ingredients. In some embodiments, the total amount of cis-1,4-polybutadiene can be at least 50 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber compound. Different additives may be added to the base rubber to form a composite. The additive can include a crosslinking agent and a filler. In some embodiments, the crosslinking agent can be zinc acrylate, magnesium acrylate, zinc methacrylate or magnesium methacrylate. In some embodiments, zinc acrylate provides advantageous elastic properties.

In some embodiments, the filler can include zinc oxide, barium sulfate, calcium carbonate or magnesium carbonate. In some embodiments, zinc oxide is selected for its advantageous properties. In some embodiments, a filler can be used to increase the specific gravity of the material. For example, a metal powder, such as tungsten, can optionally be used as a filler to achieve a desired specific gravity. In some embodiments, the outer core layer 215 may have a specific gravity in the range of from about 1.05 g/cm ³ to about 1.35 g/cm ³ .

In some embodiments, polybutadiene synthesized using a rare earth element catalyst is preferred. The use of this polybutadiene provides the golf ball 200 with increased elasticity. Examples of the rare earth element catalyst include a lanthanum rare earth element compound, an organoaluminum compound, an aluminoxane, and a halogen-containing compound. Things. A lanthanum rare earth element compound is preferred. The polybutadiene obtained by using a cerium rare earth-based catalyst generally uses a combination of cerium rare earth (atomic order 57 to 71) compounds, but particularly preferably a fluorene compound.

In some embodiments, the polybutadiene rubber composition can comprise at least from about 0.5 parts by weight to about 5 parts by weight of a halogenated organosulfide. The halogenated organic sulfide may be pentachlorothiophenol; 2-chlorothiophenol; 3-chlorothiophenol; 4-chlorothiophenol; 2,3-chlorothiophenol; 2.4-chlorothiophenol; , 4-chlorothiophenol; 3,5-chlorothiophenol; 2,3,4-chlorothiophenol; 3,4,5-chlorothiophenol; 2,3,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene Thiophenol; 2,3,5,6-tetrachlorothiophenol; pentafluorothiophenol; 2-fluorothiophenol; 3-fluorothiophenol; 4-fluorothiophenol; 2,3-fluorobenzene Thiophenol; 2,4-fluorothiophenol; 3,4-fluorothiophenol; 3,5-fluorothiophenol; 2,3,4-fluorothiophenol; 3,4,5-fluorophenylsulfur Phenol; 2,3,4,5-tetrafluorothiophenol; 2,3,5,6-tetrafluorothiophenol; 4-chloro-tetrafluorothiophenol; pentaidothiophenol; 2-ethenyl iodobenzene; 3-ethenyl iodobenzene; 4-ethenyl iodobenzene; 2,3-ethanesulfonium iodobenzene; 2,4-acetamidoiodobenzene; 3,4-acetonitrile Mercapto iodobenzene; 3,5-acetamidoiodobenzene; 2,3,4-acetamidoiodobenzene; 3,4,5-ethylidenyl iodide; 2,3,4,5-pentaethyl fluorenyl Iodobenzene; 2,3,5,6-pentaethylenesulfonium iodide; pentabromothiophenol; 2-bromothiophenol; 3-bromothiophenol; 4-bromothiophenol; 3-bromothiophenol; 2,4-bromosulf Phenol; 3,4-bromothiophenol; 3,5-bromothiophenol; 2,3,4-bromothiophenol; 3,4,5-bromothiophenol; 2,3,4,5- A group consisting of tetrabromothiophenol; 2,3,5,6-tetrabromothiophenol; and a zinc salt thereof, a metal salt thereof, and a mixture thereof are selected.

The outer core layer 215 can be formed (vulcanized) by compression molding. Appropriate sulfur The chemistry can include a vulcanization temperature between 130 ° C and 190 ° C, and a vulcanization time between 5 and 20 minutes. To achieve the desired rubber crosslinked body, the vulcanization temperature can be at least 140 °C.

When the core layer 215 is produced by vulcanizing and curing the rubber composition in the manner described above in the manner described above, it can be advantageously used by a method in which the vulcanization step is divided into two stages: first, the outer The core layer material can be placed in an outer core layer forming mold and subjected to an initial barium sulfide to produce a pair of semi-vulcanized hemispherical cups, followed by placing a prefabricated inner core layer in one of the hemispheres The cup is covered by another hemispherical cup, the state of which is completed by vulcanization.

The surface of the inner core layer 220 placed in the hemispherical cup may be roughened during placement to increase the adhesion between the inner core layer 220 and the outer core layer 215. In some embodiments, the surface of the inner core layer 220 may be pre-coated with an adhesive to enhance the durability of the golf ball and provide an increased back prior to placing the inner core layer 220 in the hemispherical cups. bomb.

Cover layer

In order to achieve the desired performance characteristics, the thickness of the layers of the golf ball 200 can be varied. In some embodiments, the outer cover layer 205 can have a thickness of between about 0.5 mm and 2 mm. Moreover, in some embodiments, the inner cover 210 can have a thickness of between about 0.5 mm and 2 mm. In some embodiments, outer cover layer 205 and/or inner cover layer 210 can have a thickness of between about 0.8 mm and 2 mm. In some embodiments, outer cover layer 205 and/or inner cover layer 210 have a thickness of between about 1 mm and 1.5 mm.

In some embodiments, the inner cover layer 210 and/or the outer cover layer 205 It may be made of a thermoplastic material including an ionic polymer resin, at least one of a highly neutralizing acid polymer, a polyamide resin, a polyester resin, and a polyurethane resin. In some embodiments, an ionic polymer resin, a urethane resin or a highly neutralized acid polymer may be used for the inner cover 210 or the outer cover 205. In some embodiments, inner cover 210 may be constructed of the same type of material as outer cover 205. In other embodiments, the inner cover 210 may be constructed of a different type of material than the outer cover 205.

In some embodiments, inner cover 210 can have a Shore D hardness of at least 65, as measured on a curved surface. In some embodiments, the outer cover 205 of the golf ball 200 can have a Shore D hardness, as measured on a curved surface, with a tether in the range of about 45 to 60.

While the invention has been described with respect to the specific embodiments of the present invention, the invention is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive, and it is obvious to those skilled in the art that Examples and applications are encompassed within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the invention is not limited by the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. The features of any particular embodiment described in this disclosure may be included in any other specific embodiments illustrated in the disclosure. At the same time, various modifications and changes are possible in the scope of the appended claims.

100,200‧‧‧ golf

105‧‧‧ Coverage

110,215‧‧‧ outer core layer

115,220‧‧‧ inner core layer

120,225‧‧‧diameter

205‧‧‧ outer cover

210‧‧‧ inner cover

1 is a cross-sectional view, in section, of a portion of an exemplary golf ball of the present disclosure, the golf ball being in a three-piece configuration; Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a section, a portion of a golf ball having a four-piece construction.

100‧‧‧ Golf

105‧‧‧ Coverage

110‧‧‧ outer core layer

115‧‧‧ inner core layer

120‧‧‧diameter

Claims (17)

A golf ball comprising: a cover layer; an outer core layer disposed radially inward of the cover layer; and an inner core layer attached radially inward of the outer core layer Arranging that the inner core layer has a first compressive deformation at a temperature of 24 ° C and a second compressive deformation at a temperature of 70 ° C, wherein the second compressive deformation amount and the first compression deformation A first ratio between the amounts is between about 1.5 and about 2.5. The golf ball of claim 1, wherein the inner core layer has a third amount of compressive deformation after heating to 70 ° C and cooling at a temperature of 24 ° C for 90 minutes, wherein the third compression is A second ratio between the amount of deformation and the first amount of compressive deformation is between about 1.08 and about 1.35. The golf ball of claim 2, wherein the inner core layer has a fourth compressive deformation amount after cooling to 70 ° C and cooling at a temperature of 24 ° C for 150 minutes, wherein the fourth compression is A third ratio between the amount of deformation and the amount of first compressive deformation is between about 1.08 and about 1.35. The golf ball of claim 3, wherein after cooling to 70 ° C and cooling at a temperature of 24 ° C for 210 minutes, the inner core layer has a fifth compressive deformation amount, wherein the fifth compression A fourth ratio between the amount of deformation and the first amount of compressive deformation is between about 1.08 and Between about 1.35. The golf ball of claim 1, wherein the first amount of compressive deformation is between about 3 mm and about 5 mm. The golf ball of claim 1, wherein the second compressive deformation amount is between about 6 mm and about 8 mm. The golf ball of claim 2, wherein the first amount of compressive deformation is between about 3 mm and about 5 mm. The golf ball of claim 2, wherein the second amount of compressive deformation is between about 6 mm and about 8 mm. The golf ball of claim 2, wherein the third amount of compressive deformation is between about 3.5 mm and about 5.5 mm. A golf ball according to claim 8 wherein the third amount of compressive deformation is between about 3.5 mm and about 5.5 mm. The golf item of claim 1, wherein the inner core layer is composed of a thermoplastic material. A golf ball according to claim 11, wherein the thermoplastic material is a highly neutralized acid polymer. A golf ball according to claim 2, wherein the second ratio is between about 1.13 and about 1.33. A golf ball according to claim 3, wherein the third ratio is between about 1.11 and about 1.26. A golf ball according to claim 4, wherein the fourth ratio is between about 1.09 and about 1.19. For example, the golf ball of claim 5, wherein the inner core layer has There is a diameter of about 24 mm. A golf ball according to claim 5, wherein the ratio is about 1.09 and the inner core layer has a diameter of about 28 mm.