Smart Golf Ball System with Functionalized Aluminosilicate Microspheres
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A golf ball system integrating functionalized aluminosilicate microspheres with IoT, AI, blockchain, and advanced materials to optimize performance, durability, and customization.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent introduced functionalized aluminosilicate microspheres to improve golf ball dispersion. However, it did not address the limitations of manual performance tracking, lack of real-time optimization, and limited customization options. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by synergistically combining the patented microspheres with distinct technologies.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The Smart Golf Ball System comprises a core, cover layer, and functionalized aluminosilicate microspheres with an average diameter less than 50 μm. These microspheres are integrated with an IoT sensor to monitor and optimize golf ball performance in real-time. AI-powered predictive modeling optimizes the microspheres' distribution and properties for improved durability and performance. The system also incorporates a graphene-based material to enhance impact resistance and durability. A blockchain-based data storage and analytics platform securely records and analyzes golf ball performance data. Machine learning algorithms predict and optimize the microspheres' properties and distribution based on a golfer's individual swing characteristics and preferences.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce the novel combination of functionalized aluminosilicate microspheres with IoT, AI, blockchain, and advanced materials, providing a non-obvious solution to the limitations of the original patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include integrating the microspheres with other sensors (e.g., GPS, accelerometer), using different AI algorithms or machine learning models, or incorporating other advanced materials (e.g., nanomaterials, metamaterials). Variations may include adapting the system for other sports or applications, such as baseballs or tennis balls.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The Smart Golf Ball System has significant commercial potential in the golf industry, with potential applications in professional and amateur golf, golf ball manufacturing, and sports analytics. The system's customization capabilities and real-time performance tracking also open up opportunities for personalized golf coaching and training.
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
Sports equipment engineering, specifically golf ball materials and advanced composite design, involving expertise in materials science, polymer chemistry, and sports equipment performance optimization
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A materials engineer with a graduate degree in materials science or polymer engineering, experienced in sports equipment design, familiar with advanced composite materials, microsphere technologies, and performance enhancement techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that integrating IoT, AI, and advanced materials with functionalized aluminosilicate microspheres represents a predictable extension of existing golf ball technology, leveraging known techniques for performance monitoring and material enhancement. The core innovation of microsphere integration remains consistent, with technological augmentation representing a natural progression in smart sports equipment design. The proposed variations demonstrate incremental improvements using standard engineering approaches to sensor integration and materials 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. |