Advanced Functionalized Aluminosilicate Microspheres for Enhanced Golf Ball Performance
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept relates to the development of advanced functionalized aluminosilicate microspheres for golf balls, providing improved dispersion, toughness, and tear resistance, while reducing environmental impact.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed the use of functionalized aluminosilicate microspheres in golf balls, but it had limitations in terms of dispersion and filler interaction. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing blends of functionalized aluminosilicate microspheres with bio-based or graphene fillers, crosslinked using a combination of thermal energy and irradiation, resulting in improved performance and sustainability.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The advanced functionalized aluminosilicate microspheres are blended with bio-based or graphene fillers, which are then crosslinked using a combination of thermal energy and irradiation. This novel approach enables improved dispersion of components in the core mixture, enhanced toughness and tear resistance, and reduced environmental impact. The crosslinking process ensures a strong bond between the microspheres and fillers, resulting in a more uniform and consistent golf ball performance.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a previously unknown combination of functionalized aluminosilicate microspheres with bio-based or graphene fillers, crosslinked using a combination of thermal energy and irradiation. This inventive step provides a significant improvement over the original patent, offering enhanced performance, sustainability, and manufacturing efficiency.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include the use of different types of fillers, such as recycled materials or nanomaterials, or varying the crosslinking process to optimize performance. Additionally, the concept could be applied to other sports equipment or industrial applications where improved dispersion and toughness are required.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The advanced functionalized aluminosilicate microspheres have significant commercial potential in the golf ball industry, offering improved performance, sustainability, and manufacturing efficiency. The target market includes golf ball manufacturers, sports equipment companies, and industries where improved dispersion and toughness are required.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A63 | A63B37/005 |
| C | C01 | C01B33/26 |
| C | C01 | C01P2004/32 |
| C | C01 | C01P2004/61 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Golf ball materials engineering, with expertise in composite materials, polymer science, and microsphere technology, focusing on core and cover layer composition
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A materials engineer with advanced degree in polymer science or materials engineering, experienced in sports equipment manufacturing, familiar with composite material modification techniques, and knowledgeable about microsphere integration strategies
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's introduction of bio-based and graphene fillers with crosslinking represents a predictable extension of the source patent's core microsphere technology. The fundamental approach of enhancing golf ball performance through microsphere integration remains consistent, with the PTD merely introducing alternative filler materials and a refined crosslinking process. These modifications represent standard engineering design choices within the established framework of golf ball material optimization.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,845 |
|---|---|
| Title | Functionalized aluminosilicate microspheres for golf ball |
| Assignee(s) | Topgolf Callaway Brands Corp. |