CA2137841A1 - Golf ball - Google Patents
Golf ballInfo
- Publication number
- CA2137841A1 CA2137841A1 CA002137841A CA2137841A CA2137841A1 CA 2137841 A1 CA2137841 A1 CA 2137841A1 CA 002137841 A CA002137841 A CA 002137841A CA 2137841 A CA2137841 A CA 2137841A CA 2137841 A1 CA2137841 A1 CA 2137841A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- cover
- layer cover
- golf ball
- inner layer
- outer layer
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B37/00—Solid balls; Rigid hollow balls; Marbles
- A63B37/0003—Golf balls
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B37/00—Solid balls; Rigid hollow balls; Marbles
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B37/00—Solid balls; Rigid hollow balls; Marbles
- A63B37/0003—Golf balls
- A63B37/0023—Covers
- A63B37/0029—Physical properties
- A63B37/0033—Thickness
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B37/00—Solid balls; Rigid hollow balls; Marbles
- A63B37/0003—Golf balls
- A63B37/007—Characteristics of the ball as a whole
- A63B37/0072—Characteristics of the ball as a whole with a specified number of layers
- A63B37/0075—Three piece balls, i.e. cover, intermediate layer and core
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10S273/00—Amusement devices: games
- Y10S273/22—Ionomer
Abstract
The present invention provides a golf ball which exhibits a large flying distance and is superior in stability when hit with an iron and hit feeling. The golf ball comprises a core and a cover for covering the core, the cover comprising two layers consisting of an inner layer cover and an outer layer cover. The stiffness modulus of the inner layer cover is 3,000 to 5,500 kg/cm2 and that of the outer layer cover being 1,000 to 2,500 kg/cm2. The thickness of the inner layer cover is 0.5 to 2.5 mm and that of the outer layer being 0.5 to 2.5 mm. The total thickness of the inner layer cover and the outer layer cover is 1.0 to 4.5 mm. A base resin of the inner layer cover contains 5 to 100 by weight of an ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion.
Description
-GOLF BALL
The present invention relates to a golf ball. More particularly, it relates to a golf ball which exhibits a large flying distance and is superior in stability when hit using an iron. In addition the ball has a good hit feeling.
In the prior art, a balata cover has been used as the cover of the golf ball. However, an ionomer having excellent durability and cut resistance has recently been used as the base resin of the cover because the balata cover is inferior in durability and cut resistance. This ionomer cover is used as not only the cover for solid golf balls but as the cover of thread wound golf balls. The ionomer cover is exclusively used in the golf ball for ordinary golfers.
Further, an ionomer having high rigidity and high hardness is used for this ionomer cover for the purpose of increasing the flying distance by enhancing resilience performances.
However, the golf ball wherein the above ionomer having high rigidity and high hardness is used as the base resin of the cover exhibits a large flying distance, but has the following serious disadvantage and an improvement thereof is needed.
(1) The feeling at the time of hitting is hard and the hit feeling is inferior because the cover has a high rigidity and a high hardness.
The present invention relates to a golf ball. More particularly, it relates to a golf ball which exhibits a large flying distance and is superior in stability when hit using an iron. In addition the ball has a good hit feeling.
In the prior art, a balata cover has been used as the cover of the golf ball. However, an ionomer having excellent durability and cut resistance has recently been used as the base resin of the cover because the balata cover is inferior in durability and cut resistance. This ionomer cover is used as not only the cover for solid golf balls but as the cover of thread wound golf balls. The ionomer cover is exclusively used in the golf ball for ordinary golfers.
Further, an ionomer having high rigidity and high hardness is used for this ionomer cover for the purpose of increasing the flying distance by enhancing resilience performances.
However, the golf ball wherein the above ionomer having high rigidity and high hardness is used as the base resin of the cover exhibits a large flying distance, but has the following serious disadvantage and an improvement thereof is needed.
(1) The feeling at the time of hitting is hard and the hit feeling is inferior because the cover has a high rigidity and a high hardness.
(2) Since the cover has a high rigidity and a high hardness, there is a sliding action between the face of the ball and an iron club, the scattering of the spin amount is large, the flying distance is unstable and the control properties are inferior.
In order to improve the above problems, a two-piece solid golf ball using a flexible resin having a low rigidity as the cover has recently been marketed.
The golf ball using the above flexible cover material has solved instability when using an iron and the hard hit feeling due to the cover. An extremely hard core is, however, required in order to make up for a deterioration of the resilience performance caused by the softening of the cover, and a new disadvantage arises. That is, an excessive amount of spin is put on the golf ball, which results in a serious deterioration in the flying distance and, further, the impact force is increased and, therefore, the hit feeling becomes hard.
Therefore, there has been proposed a golf ball wherein the deterioration of the flying distance caused by a softening of the cover is solved by constructing the cover with two layers consisting of an inner layer and an outer layer. The inner layer cover and the outer layer cover are composed of a soft resin and a rigid resin, respectively, see Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 62-275480.
However, regarding the above golf ball, a rigid resin is used for the outer layer cover and, therefore, the hit feeling is hard and inferior. Further, slipping takes place between 21378~1 the surface of the ball and an iron club which causes a lack of stability of the ball upon hitting.
As described above, a golf ball having performances which satisfies flying distance, stability of an iron shot and hit feeling simultaneously has never heretofore been obtained.
The main object of the present invention is to provide a golf ball which satisfies flying distance, stability of an iron shot and hit feeling simultaneously, which have never been accomplished by a conventional golf ball.
The present invention provides a golf ball which exhibits a large flying distance and is superior in stability of an iron shot, hit feeling and low temperature durability. The golf ball has a core and a cover for covering the core, the cover comprising two layers consisting of an inner layer cover and an outer layer cover, the stiffness modulus of the inner layer cover being 3,000 to 5,500 kg/cm2, the stiffness modulus of the outer layer cover being 1,000 to 2,500 kg/cm2, the thickness of the inner layer cover being 0.5 to 2.5 mm, the thickness of the outer layer being 0.5 to 2.5 mm, the total thickness of the inner layer cover and the outer layer cover being 1.0 to 4.5 mm and the base resin of the inner layer cover containing 5 to 100 by weight of an ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion.
The above object as well as other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 is a schematic cross section illustrating one embodiment of a golf ball of the present invention.
The reason why the above effect can be accomplished in the present invention will be explained in turn with respect to stability of an iron shot, the flying distance and the hit feeling.
(1) Stability of an iron shot Since the stiffness modulus of the outer layer cover is low (1,000 to 2,500 kg/cm2) and the outer layer cover has low rigidity and is soft, no slipping arises at the time of the shot and spin is liable to be put on the golf ball.
Therefore, the control properties are improved and a scattering of the flying distance is prevented.
(2) Flying distance Since the stiffness modulus of the inner layer cover is high (3,000 to 5,500 kg/cm2) and the inner layer cover has high rigidity, the resilience performance of the golf ball and the ball initial velocity are maintained at a suitable level.
That is, since the flexible cover having a low rigidity is used for the outer layer and a highly rigid cover is used for the inner layer, the initial velocity of the ball is maintained at a suitable level without the deterioration of the resilience properties of the golf ball. Further, the flying distance of the golf ball is not deteriorated.
In order to improve the above problems, a two-piece solid golf ball using a flexible resin having a low rigidity as the cover has recently been marketed.
The golf ball using the above flexible cover material has solved instability when using an iron and the hard hit feeling due to the cover. An extremely hard core is, however, required in order to make up for a deterioration of the resilience performance caused by the softening of the cover, and a new disadvantage arises. That is, an excessive amount of spin is put on the golf ball, which results in a serious deterioration in the flying distance and, further, the impact force is increased and, therefore, the hit feeling becomes hard.
Therefore, there has been proposed a golf ball wherein the deterioration of the flying distance caused by a softening of the cover is solved by constructing the cover with two layers consisting of an inner layer and an outer layer. The inner layer cover and the outer layer cover are composed of a soft resin and a rigid resin, respectively, see Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 62-275480.
However, regarding the above golf ball, a rigid resin is used for the outer layer cover and, therefore, the hit feeling is hard and inferior. Further, slipping takes place between 21378~1 the surface of the ball and an iron club which causes a lack of stability of the ball upon hitting.
As described above, a golf ball having performances which satisfies flying distance, stability of an iron shot and hit feeling simultaneously has never heretofore been obtained.
The main object of the present invention is to provide a golf ball which satisfies flying distance, stability of an iron shot and hit feeling simultaneously, which have never been accomplished by a conventional golf ball.
The present invention provides a golf ball which exhibits a large flying distance and is superior in stability of an iron shot, hit feeling and low temperature durability. The golf ball has a core and a cover for covering the core, the cover comprising two layers consisting of an inner layer cover and an outer layer cover, the stiffness modulus of the inner layer cover being 3,000 to 5,500 kg/cm2, the stiffness modulus of the outer layer cover being 1,000 to 2,500 kg/cm2, the thickness of the inner layer cover being 0.5 to 2.5 mm, the thickness of the outer layer being 0.5 to 2.5 mm, the total thickness of the inner layer cover and the outer layer cover being 1.0 to 4.5 mm and the base resin of the inner layer cover containing 5 to 100 by weight of an ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion.
The above object as well as other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 is a schematic cross section illustrating one embodiment of a golf ball of the present invention.
The reason why the above effect can be accomplished in the present invention will be explained in turn with respect to stability of an iron shot, the flying distance and the hit feeling.
(1) Stability of an iron shot Since the stiffness modulus of the outer layer cover is low (1,000 to 2,500 kg/cm2) and the outer layer cover has low rigidity and is soft, no slipping arises at the time of the shot and spin is liable to be put on the golf ball.
Therefore, the control properties are improved and a scattering of the flying distance is prevented.
(2) Flying distance Since the stiffness modulus of the inner layer cover is high (3,000 to 5,500 kg/cm2) and the inner layer cover has high rigidity, the resilience performance of the golf ball and the ball initial velocity are maintained at a suitable level.
That is, since the flexible cover having a low rigidity is used for the outer layer and a highly rigid cover is used for the inner layer, the initial velocity of the ball is maintained at a suitable level without the deterioration of the resilience properties of the golf ball. Further, the flying distance of the golf ball is not deteriorated.
(3) Hit feeling A soft feeling is obtained at the time of hitting due to the flexible outer layer cover having a low rigidity, and a light hit feeling having good resiliency is obtained due to 21378~1 .
the inner layer cover having a high rigidity, which results in a good hit feeling.
Next, the construction of the golf ball of the present invention will be explained with reference to the accompanying drawing.
Fig. 1 is a schematic cross section illustrating one embodiment of the golf ball of the present invention. In Fig. 1, 1 is a core and 2 is a cover for covering the core.
This cover 2 comprises two layers of an inner layer cover 2a and an outer layer cover 2b. Dimples, painting or marking are normally provided on the cover 2, but they are omitted in Fig. 1 for the sake of clarity.
The construction of the golf ball will be explained in detail with respect to the outer layer cover which contacts with a club at the time of hitting. The inner layer cover and the core will be discussed in turn.
The thickness of the outer layer cover is 0.5 to 2.5 mm, preferably 0.6 to 2.3 mm. When the thickness of the outer layer cover is smaller than 0.5 mm, the durability such as cut resistance, etc. is deteriorated and it is difficult to conduct molding. Even if it can be molded, a part having a very small thickness is formed due to ununiformity of thickness and physical properties become unstable. Further, when the thickness of the outer layer cover is larger than 2.5 mm, the resilience performance of the golf ball deteriorates because the outer layer cover has a low rigidity, which results in a deterioration of the flying distance.
Further, it is necessary that the outer layer cover has a stiffness modulus of 1,000 to 2,500 kgjcm2, preferably 1,000 to 2,300 kg/cm2, in view of physical propérties.
As described above, the outer layer cover has a low stiffness modulus in comparison with a conventional high-rigid cover (stiffness modulus: about 3,000 to 4,000 kg/cm2) and the stability of an iron shot and a good hit feeling can be obtained because of this low rigidity. When the stiffness modulus of the outer layer cover is higher than 2,500 kg/cm2, the flexibility is lost, the hit feeling becomes hard and slipping arises when the ball is hit with an iron, which results in a deterioration of safety. Further, the spin amount becomes unstable and control properties become inferior. On the other hand, when the stiffness modulus of the outer layer cover is lower than 1,000 kg/cm2, deterioration of resilience performance and cut resistance arises.
The thickness of the inner layer cover is 0.5 to 2.5 mm, preferably 0.6 to 2.3 mm. When the thickness of the inner layer cover is smaller than 0.5 mm, the resilience performance deteriorates and it is difficult to conduct molding. Even if it can be molded, a part having a very small thickness is formed due to non-uniformity of thickness and the physical properties of the ball are unstable. Further, when the thickness of the inner layer cover is larger than 2.5 mm, the hit feeling is hard.
Further, it is necessary that the inner layer cover has a stiffness modulus of 3,000 to 5,500 kg/cm2, preferably 3,200 to 5,000 kg/cm2, in view of physical properties. That is, 21378ql -suitable resilience performance and ball initial velocity are obtained because the inner layer cover has a stiffness modulus within the above range.
When the stiffness modulus of the inner layer cover is lower than 3,000 kg/cm2, deterioration of resilience performance and ball initial velocity arises and the hit feeling becomes heavy. On the other hand, when the stiffness modulus of the inner layer cover is higher than 5,500 kg/cm2, it becomes too hard and the hit feeling becomes inferior.
As the base resin of the inner layer cover, ionomers having high rigidity or those containing the same as a main material are used. It is necessary that the base resin contains the ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion in an amount of 5 to 100~ by weight, preferably 10 to 100~ by weight. When the amount of the ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion is smaller than 5~ by weight, low temperature durability becomes inferior.
Examples of the ionomer having a high rigidity include Hi-milane #1605 (trade mark), Hi-milane #1707 (trade mark), Hi-milane #1706 (trade mark), etc. which are commercially available from Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical. Co., Ltd., lotek 7010 (trade mark), lotek 8000 (trade mark), etc. which are commercially available from Exxon Chemical Co. Examples of the ionomer having a low rigidity include Hi-milane #1855 (trade mark), Hi-milane #1856 (trade mark), etc. which are commercially available from Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ltd. The stiffness modulus of the above lotek 7010 (trade mark) is not necessarily high, but the blend obtained by -blending lotek 7010 (trade mark) with the other ionomer has high rigidity. Therefore, Iotek 7010 (trade mark) is describéd as a ionomer having a high rigidity.
Further, examples of a ionomer having a medium rigidity include Himilane #1555 (trade mark) and Hi-milane #1557 (trade mark) which are commercially available from Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ltd. Examples of a resin having a low rigidity include AD8265 (trade mark) and AD8269 (trade mark), manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ltd., as a terpolymer of an ethylene-methacrylic acid ionomer and an ester. The stiffness modulus of these resins will be explained in Examples hereinafter.
Examples of a resin having a low rigidity include ethylene-isobutyl acrylate-methacrylic acid terpolymer resin which is commercially available from Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ltd. as Nucrel AN4212C (trade mark) and Nucrel NO825J (trade mark), in addition to the above resins.
Further, examples of a other low-rigid resin include ethylene-ethyl-acrylateanhydrous maleic acid terpolymer resin which is commercially available from Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd. as Bondine AX8390 (trade mark) and Bondine TX8030 (trade mark). The base resin is not limited to the above resins.
As a base resin of the outer layer cover, the above resins may be used in combination so that the stiffness modulus may be within a range of from 1,000 to 2,500 kg/cm2.
Further, it is preferred that the base resin of the outer layer contain 5 to 100~ by weight of an ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion.
g The base resin of the inner cover layer contains 5 to 100~ by weight of an ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion.
Examples of the ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion include Hi-milane #1706 (trade mark), Hi-milane #1557 (trade mark), Himilane #1855 (trade mark), lotek 7010 (trade mark) and the like. The base resin containing 5 to 100~ by weight of the ionomer may have a stiffness modulus of 3,000 to 5,500 kg/cm2.
A composition for the cover to be used for forming the outer layer cover and the inner layer cover is prepared by formulating pigments such as titanium dioxide, barium sulfate, etc. and, if necessary, antioxidants into the above base resin. Further, the other resin may be added to the above base resin unless characteristics of the above base resin are deteriorated.
In the present invention, any of a core for a solid golf ball and a core for a thread wound golf ball can be used.
The solid core may be not only a core for a two-piece golf ball but a core for a multi-layer structure golf ball having three layers or more. For example, as the core for a two-piece golf ball, those obtained by subjecting a rubber composition to a press vulcanization to compress with heating (e.g. at a temperature of 140 to 170C for from 10 to 40 minutes) into a spherical vulcanized article can be used. The rubber composition is prepared by formulating 10 to 60 parts by weight of at least one vulcanizing agent (crosslinking agent) of ~ ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acids (e.g.
acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, etc.) or metal salts thereof and functional monomers (e.g. trimethylolpropane 21378~1 -trimethacrylate, etc.), 5 to 40 parts by weight of a filler (e.g. zinc oxide, barium sulfate, etc.), 0.5 to 5 parts by weight of a peroxide (e.g. dicumyl peroxide, etc.) and, if necessary, 0.1 to 1 part by weight of an antioxidant, based on 100 parts by weight of polybutadiene rubber. It is preferred that the diameter of the core be 36.5 to 43.0 mm.
The thread wound core is composed of a center and a thread rubber wound on the center. As the center, any of a liquid center and a rubber center can be used. As the rubber center, there can be used those obtained by vulcanizing the same rubber composition as that of the solid core.
Rubber threads may be those which have hitherto been used. For example, there can be used those obtained by vulcanizing a rubber composition wherein an antioxidant, a vulcanizing accelerator and sulfur are formulated in a natural rubber or a natural rubber and synthetic polyisoprene. The core is not limited to a solid core or a thread wound core.
A method of coating the inner layer cover on the core is not specifically limited, but may be a normal method. For example, there can be employed a method comprising molding a composition for the inner layer cover into a semi-spherical half-shell in advance, covering a core with two half-shells and then subjecting to a pressure molding at 130 to 170C for 1 to 15 minutes, or a method comprising subjecting the composition for the inner layer cover to an injection molding directly to cover the core. The outer layer cover is coated on the inner layer cover according to the same manner as that of coating the inner layer cover on the core. In the case of 2137~1 molding of the outer layer cover, a dimple may be formed on the surface of the ball, if necessary. Further, if necessary, a paint finishing and stamping may be provided after cover molding.
As explained above, the golf ball of the present invention exhibits a large flying distance and is superior in stability hit be an iron club and hit feeling.
The following Examples and Comparative Examples further illustrate the present invention in detail but are not to be construed to limit the scope thereof.
EXAMPLES
Examples 1 to 13 and Comparative Examples 1 to 14 In order to prepare a core used in the following Examples and Comparative Examples, a composition for a core was prepared using the formulation components shown in Table 1.
The respective compositions for the core thus obtained were charged in a die and vulcanized at 155C for 40 minutes to prepare a core. Further, the amount in Table 1 is "parts by weight". The diameter of the core varies depending on the thickness of the cover so that an outer diameter of the golf ball may be 42.7 mm, and is within a range from 35.7 to 38.3 mm.
Table 1 A B C
Butadiene rubber *1 100 100 100 Zinc acrylate 30 30 30 zinc oxide 22 20 18 Antioxidant *2 0.5 0.5 0.5 Dicumyl peroxide 2.5 2.5 2.5 *1: Hi-cis butadiene rubber, JSR BR01 (trade name) manufactured by Nihon Synthetic Rubber Co., Ltd.
*2: Yoshinox 425 (trade name) manufactured by Yoshitomi Seiyaku Co., Ltd.
A core A is used for Examples 1 to 10, Example 13, Comparative Examples 1 to 4 and Comparative Examples 7 to 14.
A core B is used for Examples 11 and 12, and a core C is used for Comparative Examples 5 and 6. The core which is different from the others is used for Examples 11 and 12 and Comparative Examples 5 and 6 because the ball weight must be adjusted within a range of 45.3 + 0.1 g.
Then, a composition for the inner layer cover and a composition for the outer layer cover used in the Examples and Comparative Examples were prepared using the formulation components shown in Tables 2 and 3. The amount of each component in Tables 2 and 3 is "parts by weight". Each resin was described by its trade mark due to a lack of space and, therefore, the detail will be explained at the back of Table 3.
Further, in Tables 2 and 3, there is described a stiffness modulus of each composition for the cover and an amount of ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion. This ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion is described at the top part in Tables 2 and 3. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is formulated in each composition for the cover in an amount of 2 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the resin component, but the amount is not described in Tables 2 and 3.
-Each composition for the cover was prepared by mixing formulation materials using a kneading type twin-screw extruder. The extrusion conditions are as follows: screw diameter: 45 mm; screw revolution per minute: 200 rpm; screw L/D: 35.
Table 2 A B C D E F G
Hi-milane #1706 *3 50 30 - 10 30 85 100 Hi-milane #1557 *4 Hi-milane #1855 *5 - 20 lotek #7010 *6 - - 50 Hi-milane #1605 *7 35 50 Hi-milane #1707 *8 15 - - 65 30 15 Hi-milane #1555 *9 - - - 25 10 Hi-milane #1856 *10 AD8265 *11 AD8269 *12 lotek #8000 *13 - - 50 Stiffness modulus (Kg/cm2) 3500 30004000 3500 3500 3500 3100 Amount (~ by weight) of ionomer neutralized with50 50 50 10 30 85 100 zinc ion Table 3 Hi-milane #170625 - 20 - - 20 - -Hi-milane #1557 - 30 10 10 - 60 20 Hi-milane #185525 70 30 20 100 - - 80 Lotek #7010 Hi-milane #160525 - - - - 20 100 Hi-milane #1707 Hi-milane #155520 Hi-milane #185615 lotek #8000 Stiffness modulus250015001500 7009002000 3300 1200 (Kg/cm2) Amount (~ by weight) of 15 ionomer neutralized 50 10060 30 100 80 0 100 with zinc ion X3: Hi-milane #1706 (trade mark):
ethylene-methacrylic acid ionomer obtained by neutralizing with a zinc ion manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ml (melt index) = 0.7, stiffness modulus =
2,600 kg/cm2 X4: Hi-milane #1557 ~trade mark):
ethylene-methacrylic acid ionomer obtained by neutralizing with a zinc ion manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ml = 1.0, stiffness modulus = 2,100 kg/cm2 X5: Hi-milane 1855 (trade mark):
ethylene-methacrylic acid ionomer obtained by neutralizing with a zinc ion manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ml = 1.0, stiffness modulus = 900 kg/cm2 21378~1 -X6: Iotek 7010 (trade mark):
ethylene-acrylic acid ionomer obtained by neutralizing with a zinc ion manufactured by Exxon Chemical Co., Ml = 1.0, stiffness modulus = 1,600 kg/cm2 X7: Hi-milane #1605 (trade mark):
ethylene-methacrylic acid ionomer obtained by neutralizing with a sodium ion manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ml = 2.8, stiffness modulus = 3,100 kg/cm2 X8: Hi-milane #1707 (trade mark):
ethylene-methacrylic acid ionomer obtained by neutralizing with a sodium ion manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., MI = 0.9, stiffness modulus = 3,000 kg/cm2 X9: Hi-milane #1555 (trade mark):
ethylene-methacrylic acid ionomer obtained by neutralizing with a sodium ion manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ml = 1.0, stiffness modulus = 2,100 l:g/cm2 X10: Hi-milane #1856 (trade mark):
ethylene-methacrylic acid-acrylate terpolymer obtained by neutralizing with a sodium ion manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ml = 1.0, stiffness modulus = 700 kg/cm2 Xll: AD8265 (trade mark):
ethylene-methacrylic acid-methacrylate terpolymer obtained by neutralizing with a sodium ion manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., MI = 1.9, stiffness modulus:
700 kg/cm2.
2I378gl -X12: AD8269 (trade mark):
ethylene-methacrylic acid-acrylate terpolymer obtained by neutralizing with a sodium ion manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ml = 0.8, stiffness modulus = 400 kg/cm2 X13: lotek 8000 (trade mark):
ethylene-acrylic acid ionomer obtained by neutralizing with a sodium ion manufactured by Exxon Chemical Co., MI = 0.8, stiffness modulus = 3,800 kg/cm2 Then, a combination of the inner layer cover and outer layer cover as shown in Tables 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14 was coated on the above core to prepare a golf ball. The preparation method is as shown below.
Firstly, a semi-spherical half-shell was molded from a composition for the inner layer cover, and the above core was covered with two half-shells and subjected to a press molding in a die at 150C for 8 minutes.
Similarly, a half-shell was molded from a composition for the outer layer cover, and the core coated with the inner layer cover was covered with two half-shells and subjected to a press molding in a die for golf ball at 150C for 8 minutes to obtain a golf ball. The resulting golf ball was painted to give a coated golf ball of 42.7 mm in diameter. Each golf ball has a weight of not more than 45.4 g and satisfies the standard for weight.
Then, the ball compression (PGA system), the durability, the low temperature durability, the flying performance, the control properties by means of iron and the hit feeling of the resulting golf ball were examined. The results are shown in .
the following tables. The measuring method thereof is as follows.
Durability:
A golf ball was hit with a No. 1 wood club at a head speed of 45 m/second using a swing robot manufactured by True Temper Co. (trade mark), and the number of times until breakage took place was measured. The resulting value was indicated as an index in case of the value of the golf ball of Example 1 being 100.
Low temperature durabilitY:
A golf ball was maintained at -20C and hit with a No. 1 wood club at a head speed of 45 m/second 50 times using a swing robot manufactured by True Temper Co. (trade mark). The test was conducted on ten golf balls. The results are evaluated by the following criteria:
0: All ten golf balls were not broken.
X: One or more golf balls were broken.
Flying performances:
Flying performances are e~m;ned by hitting the golf ball with a No. 1 wood club (wood #1) and a No. 9 iron club (iron #9) using a swing robot manufactured by True Temper Co.
(trade mark).
The golf ball was hit with the No. 1 wood club at a head speed of 45 m/second to measure the initial velocity and the carry (distance up to the point where the golf ball dropped to the ground).
The golf ball was hit with the No. 9 iron club at a head speed of 34 m/second to measure the spin, the carry, the run (distance of the golf ball from the point where the golf ball dropped to the ground until it stopped) and the total (total of the carry and the run). The spin is determined by taking a photograph of the golf ball.
Control ~ro~erties by means of iron:
This property is evaluated by hitting the golf ball by 10 top professional golfers. The evaluation was conducted by the following criteria:
0: The golf ball is liable to be stopped by a short iron, control properties are good.
X: The golf ball is not easily stopped by a short iron, control properties are inferior.
Hit feelinq:
This is evaluated by hitting the golf ball by 10 top professional golfers. The evaluation was conducted by the following criteria:
0: Soft feeling similar to that of a balata thread wound golf ball, and resiliency is good ~ : Soft feeling XH: Hard and inferior XS: Too soft and heavy, and resiliency is inferior In Tables 4 to 15, the kind (indicated by the symbol in Tables 2 to 3), the stiffness modulus, the amount of the ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion (represented by the "proportion of Zn") and the thickness of the composition for the inner layer cover, the kind, the stiffness modulus and the thickness of the composition for outer layer cover, the total thickness of the cover of the golf ball, the compression, the durability, the low temperature durability, the flying performances (No. 1 wood club is represented by "wood #1~ and No. 9 iron club is represented by "iron #9"), the control properties and hit feeling by means of iron are shown according to the respective Examples and Comparative Examples.
Further, regarding the golf balls of Comparative Examples 8 to 11, the cover is composed of a single layer and, therefore, the composition for the cover, the stiffness modulus and the thickness are shown in the item of the "outer layer cover". Further, since the golf ball of Comparative Example 12 is a commercially available thread wound golf ball with a balata cover, the description about the cover in the table is omitted.
-Tab1e 4 Example No.
Inner layer cover Composition for cover B A C A A
Stiffness modulus (kg/cm2) 3000 3500 4000 3500 3500 Protection (% by wt) of Zn 50 50 50 50 50 Thi~n~s.s (mm) 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 Outer layer cover Compositon for cover - I I I O M
Stiffness modulus (kg/cm2) 1500 1500 1$00 1200 2000 Thirl~n~ss (mm) 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7 Characteristic of ball Total thickness of cover (mm) 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2 Compression 98.0 98.5 99.0 98.0 99.0 Durability 102 100 98 102 99 Low temperature durability O O O O O
-Tab1e 5 Example No.
Flying performance Wood #l Ball initial velocity (m/sec) 65.5 65.7 65.9 65.5 65.8 Carry (yards) 232 233 234 233 233.5 Iron #9 Spin (rpm) 8300 8250 8200 8400 8200 Carry (yards) 135.0 135.5 136.0 134.5 135.5 Run (yards) - 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 Total (yards) 135.5 136.0 136.5 135.0 136.0 Control propellies by means of iron O O O O O
Hit feeling O O O O O
-Tab1e 6 Example No.
Inner layer cover Composition for cover A D E F G
Stiffness modulus (k/cm2) 3500 3500 3500 3500 3100 Proportion (% by wt) of Zn 50 5 30 85 100 Thir~n~ss (mm) 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 Outer layer cover Stiffness modulus (k/cm~) H
Proportion (% by wt) of Zn 2500 1500 1500 1500 1500 0 Thickness (mm) 0.7 0.7 0.7 0-7 0-7 Characteristics of ball Total thirLn~e~ of cover (mm) 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2 Co~ ression 99.5 98.5 98.5 98.5 98.0 Durability 98 100 100 100 l01 Low telllpel~lul~ durability O O O O O
-Table 7 Example No.
Flying performance Wood #l Ball initial velocity (m/sec) 66.0 65.7 65.7 65.7 65.5 Carry (yards) 234.5 233 233 233 232 Iron #9 Spin (rpm) 8100 8250 8250 8250 8300 Carry (yards) 136.0 135.5 135.5 135.5 135.0 Run (yards) 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0 Total (yards) 136.5 136.0 136.0 136.0 135.5 Control properties by means of iron O O O O O
Hit feeling O O O O O
., Tab1e 8 Example No.
Inner layer cover Composition for cover A A A
Stiffness modulus (kJcm2) 3500 3500 3500 Proportion (% by wt) of Zn 50 50 50 Thir~n~s~ (mm) 0.5 2.5 1.5 Outer layer cover Stiffness modulus (k/cm2) I I J
Proportion (% by wt) of Zn 1500 1500 1500 Thir~n~ss (mm) 2.5 0.5 0.7 Characteristics of ball Total thir1~nP~s of cover (mm) 3.0 3.0 2.2 Co~ cssion 97.0 99.5 98.5 Durability 103 101 100 Low l~m~?elalulc durability O O O
213784~
Tab1e 9 Example No.
Flying performance Wood #l Ball initial velocity (m/sec) 65.4 65.9 65.7 Carry (yards) 231.5 234 233 Iron #9 Spin (rpm) 8450 8200 8250 Carry (yards) 134.5 136.0 135.5 Run (yards) 0.5 0.5 0.5 Total (yards) 135.0 136.5 136.0 Control propellies by means of iron O O O
Hit feeling O O O
-Table 10 Colllpal~liv~ Example No.
Irmer layer cover Composition for cover H A A - N A
Stiffness modulus (kg/cm23 2500 3500 3500 3300 3500 Protection (% by wt) of Zn 50 50 50 0 50 Thickness (mm) 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 0.5 Outer layer cover Compositon for cover I K B
Stiffness modulus (kg/cm2) 1500 700 3000 1500 1500 ThicknPs~ (mm) 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7 3.0 Characteristic of ball Total thickn~ss of cover (mm) 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2 3.5 Colllplession 97.5 97.5 100.0 98.5 97.0 Durability 103 104 94 100 104 Low t~ elalul~ durability O O O X O
Tab1e 11 Co~ ald~ive Example No.
Flying pclÇollllallce Wood #l Ball initial velocity (m/sec) 65.2 65.4 66.2 65.6 65.0 Carry (yards) 229.5 230 235.5 232.5 228.5 Iron #9 Spin (rpm) 8400 8350 7700 8250 8550 Carry (yards) 132.0 133.0 135.0 135.5 132.0 Run (yards) 0.5 0.5 2.5 0.5 0.5 0 Total (yards) 132.5 133.5 137.5 136.0 132.5 Control propellies by means of iron O O X O O
Hit feeling XS XS XH O XS
Table 12 Co~ ala~ive Example No.
Inner layer cover Composition for cover A I - - -Stiffness modulus (k/cm2) 3500 1500 - - -Proportion (% by wt) of Zn 50 100 ThirLn~ss (mm) 3.0 1.5 Outer layer cover Stiffness modulus (k/cm2) I A I H A
Proportion (% by wt) of Zn 1500 3500 1500 2500 3500 0 Thickness (mm) 0.5 0.7 2.2 2.2 2.2 Characteristics of ball Total thickness of cover (mm) 3.5 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2 Colll~lcssion 100.0 96.0 95.5 96.5 98.5 Durability 98 90 105 102 92 Low temperature durability O O O O O
.
Table 13 Co~ alalive Example No.
Flying performance Wood #l Ball initial velocity (m/sec) 66.1 65.1 64.7 65.2 65.6 Carry (yards) 234.5 229.0 226.5 229.5 234.0 Iron #9 Spin (rpm) 7700 7650 8600 8200 7600 Carry (yards) 136.5 132.5 127.0 130.0 136.0 Run (yards) 2.5 2.0 0.5 0.5 2.5 0 Total (yards) 139.0 134.5 127.5 130.5 138.5 Control prope,lies by means of iron X X O O X
Hit feeling XH XH XS XS XH
Table 14 Coln~?alativc Example No.
Inner layer cover Composition for cover - - N N
Stiffness modulus (k/cm2) - - 3300 3300 Proportion (% by wt) of Zn - - 0 0 Thir~n~ss (mm) - - 1.5 0.7 Outer layer cover Stiffness modulus (k/cm2) C - L L
Proportion (% by wt) of Zn 4000 - 900 900 Thirl~n~s~ (mm) 2.2 - 0.7 1.5 Characteristics of ball Total thir~nPs~ of cover (mm) 2.2 - 2.2 2.2 Compression 99.5 95.0 98.0 97.0 Durability 88 70 104 107 Low telll~el~lulc durability O O X X
~r37r~l t -- 32 Tab1e 15 Co~ al~Liv~ Example No.
Flying performance Wood #l Ball initial velocity (m/sec) 66.3 64.8 65.3 65.0 Carry (yards) 235.5 228.5 230.0 228.5 Iron #9 Spin (rpm) 7400 8700 8350 8450 Carry (yards) 137.0 129.5 134.0 133.0 Run (yards) 3.0 0.5 0.5 0.5 0 Total (yards) 140.0 130.0 134.5 133.5 Control plopellies by means of iron X O O O
Hit feeling XH ~ XS XS
.
Firstly, a comparison golf ball will be explained. Among the golf balls of the above Comparative Examples, the golf ball of Comparative Example 10 is a conventional typical two-piece solid golf ball. This golf ball of Comparative Example 10 exhibits a large flying distance, as shown in Table 15, but the control properties when hit by an iron are inferior. Further, the hit feeling is hard and inferior.
The golf ball of Comparative Example 12 is a commercially available thread wound golf ball with a balata cover.
Regarding this golf ball of Comparative Example 12, as shown in Tables 14 and 15, the control properties when hit by an iron are good and the hit feeling is soft, but the durability is inferior. Further, the flying distance is small in comparison with the two-piece golf ball of Comparative Example 10.
Then, the characteristics of the golf balls of Examples 1 to 13 of the present invention will be explained in comparison with the typical two-piece solid golf ball of Comparative Example 10, and the commercially available thread wound golf ball with a balata cover of Comparative Example 12. As shown in Tables 1 to 9, the golf balls of Examples 1 to 13 of the present invention exhibit a large flying distance which is almost the same as that of the conventional typical two-piece solid golf ball of Comparative Example 10, and the durability is superior to the golf ball of Comparative Example 10.
Further, the golf balls of Examples 1 to 13 of the present invention are superior in control properties when hit by an iron and the hit feeling is also good. They are better -21378~ 1 than the commercially available thread wound golf ball with a balata cover of Comparative Examples 12.
That is, the golf balls of Examples 1 to 13 of the present invention exhibit a large flying distance and are superior in stability when hit with an iron and hit feeling.
On the contrary, the golf balls of Comparative Examples 1 to 14 were inferior in flying distance, control properties when hit with an iron or hit feeling.
For example, the golf ball of Comparative Example 7 is a golf ball wherein the inner layer cover is soft and the outer layer cover is hard. Since the outer layer cover is hard, the hit feeling is hard and inferior as shown in Table 13.
Further, the golf ball is inferior in control properties when hit with an iron and lacks in stability when hit with an iron.
Further, the golf balls of Comparative Example 13 to 14 are golf balls wherein the inner layer cover is hard and the outer layer cover is soft. Since the outer layer cover is too soft, the low temperature durability is inferior, as shown in Table 14. Further, as shown in Table 15, the hit feeling is heavy and resiliency is inferior, and it is not preferred.
the inner layer cover having a high rigidity, which results in a good hit feeling.
Next, the construction of the golf ball of the present invention will be explained with reference to the accompanying drawing.
Fig. 1 is a schematic cross section illustrating one embodiment of the golf ball of the present invention. In Fig. 1, 1 is a core and 2 is a cover for covering the core.
This cover 2 comprises two layers of an inner layer cover 2a and an outer layer cover 2b. Dimples, painting or marking are normally provided on the cover 2, but they are omitted in Fig. 1 for the sake of clarity.
The construction of the golf ball will be explained in detail with respect to the outer layer cover which contacts with a club at the time of hitting. The inner layer cover and the core will be discussed in turn.
The thickness of the outer layer cover is 0.5 to 2.5 mm, preferably 0.6 to 2.3 mm. When the thickness of the outer layer cover is smaller than 0.5 mm, the durability such as cut resistance, etc. is deteriorated and it is difficult to conduct molding. Even if it can be molded, a part having a very small thickness is formed due to ununiformity of thickness and physical properties become unstable. Further, when the thickness of the outer layer cover is larger than 2.5 mm, the resilience performance of the golf ball deteriorates because the outer layer cover has a low rigidity, which results in a deterioration of the flying distance.
Further, it is necessary that the outer layer cover has a stiffness modulus of 1,000 to 2,500 kgjcm2, preferably 1,000 to 2,300 kg/cm2, in view of physical propérties.
As described above, the outer layer cover has a low stiffness modulus in comparison with a conventional high-rigid cover (stiffness modulus: about 3,000 to 4,000 kg/cm2) and the stability of an iron shot and a good hit feeling can be obtained because of this low rigidity. When the stiffness modulus of the outer layer cover is higher than 2,500 kg/cm2, the flexibility is lost, the hit feeling becomes hard and slipping arises when the ball is hit with an iron, which results in a deterioration of safety. Further, the spin amount becomes unstable and control properties become inferior. On the other hand, when the stiffness modulus of the outer layer cover is lower than 1,000 kg/cm2, deterioration of resilience performance and cut resistance arises.
The thickness of the inner layer cover is 0.5 to 2.5 mm, preferably 0.6 to 2.3 mm. When the thickness of the inner layer cover is smaller than 0.5 mm, the resilience performance deteriorates and it is difficult to conduct molding. Even if it can be molded, a part having a very small thickness is formed due to non-uniformity of thickness and the physical properties of the ball are unstable. Further, when the thickness of the inner layer cover is larger than 2.5 mm, the hit feeling is hard.
Further, it is necessary that the inner layer cover has a stiffness modulus of 3,000 to 5,500 kg/cm2, preferably 3,200 to 5,000 kg/cm2, in view of physical properties. That is, 21378ql -suitable resilience performance and ball initial velocity are obtained because the inner layer cover has a stiffness modulus within the above range.
When the stiffness modulus of the inner layer cover is lower than 3,000 kg/cm2, deterioration of resilience performance and ball initial velocity arises and the hit feeling becomes heavy. On the other hand, when the stiffness modulus of the inner layer cover is higher than 5,500 kg/cm2, it becomes too hard and the hit feeling becomes inferior.
As the base resin of the inner layer cover, ionomers having high rigidity or those containing the same as a main material are used. It is necessary that the base resin contains the ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion in an amount of 5 to 100~ by weight, preferably 10 to 100~ by weight. When the amount of the ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion is smaller than 5~ by weight, low temperature durability becomes inferior.
Examples of the ionomer having a high rigidity include Hi-milane #1605 (trade mark), Hi-milane #1707 (trade mark), Hi-milane #1706 (trade mark), etc. which are commercially available from Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical. Co., Ltd., lotek 7010 (trade mark), lotek 8000 (trade mark), etc. which are commercially available from Exxon Chemical Co. Examples of the ionomer having a low rigidity include Hi-milane #1855 (trade mark), Hi-milane #1856 (trade mark), etc. which are commercially available from Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ltd. The stiffness modulus of the above lotek 7010 (trade mark) is not necessarily high, but the blend obtained by -blending lotek 7010 (trade mark) with the other ionomer has high rigidity. Therefore, Iotek 7010 (trade mark) is describéd as a ionomer having a high rigidity.
Further, examples of a ionomer having a medium rigidity include Himilane #1555 (trade mark) and Hi-milane #1557 (trade mark) which are commercially available from Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ltd. Examples of a resin having a low rigidity include AD8265 (trade mark) and AD8269 (trade mark), manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ltd., as a terpolymer of an ethylene-methacrylic acid ionomer and an ester. The stiffness modulus of these resins will be explained in Examples hereinafter.
Examples of a resin having a low rigidity include ethylene-isobutyl acrylate-methacrylic acid terpolymer resin which is commercially available from Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ltd. as Nucrel AN4212C (trade mark) and Nucrel NO825J (trade mark), in addition to the above resins.
Further, examples of a other low-rigid resin include ethylene-ethyl-acrylateanhydrous maleic acid terpolymer resin which is commercially available from Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd. as Bondine AX8390 (trade mark) and Bondine TX8030 (trade mark). The base resin is not limited to the above resins.
As a base resin of the outer layer cover, the above resins may be used in combination so that the stiffness modulus may be within a range of from 1,000 to 2,500 kg/cm2.
Further, it is preferred that the base resin of the outer layer contain 5 to 100~ by weight of an ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion.
g The base resin of the inner cover layer contains 5 to 100~ by weight of an ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion.
Examples of the ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion include Hi-milane #1706 (trade mark), Hi-milane #1557 (trade mark), Himilane #1855 (trade mark), lotek 7010 (trade mark) and the like. The base resin containing 5 to 100~ by weight of the ionomer may have a stiffness modulus of 3,000 to 5,500 kg/cm2.
A composition for the cover to be used for forming the outer layer cover and the inner layer cover is prepared by formulating pigments such as titanium dioxide, barium sulfate, etc. and, if necessary, antioxidants into the above base resin. Further, the other resin may be added to the above base resin unless characteristics of the above base resin are deteriorated.
In the present invention, any of a core for a solid golf ball and a core for a thread wound golf ball can be used.
The solid core may be not only a core for a two-piece golf ball but a core for a multi-layer structure golf ball having three layers or more. For example, as the core for a two-piece golf ball, those obtained by subjecting a rubber composition to a press vulcanization to compress with heating (e.g. at a temperature of 140 to 170C for from 10 to 40 minutes) into a spherical vulcanized article can be used. The rubber composition is prepared by formulating 10 to 60 parts by weight of at least one vulcanizing agent (crosslinking agent) of ~ ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acids (e.g.
acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, etc.) or metal salts thereof and functional monomers (e.g. trimethylolpropane 21378~1 -trimethacrylate, etc.), 5 to 40 parts by weight of a filler (e.g. zinc oxide, barium sulfate, etc.), 0.5 to 5 parts by weight of a peroxide (e.g. dicumyl peroxide, etc.) and, if necessary, 0.1 to 1 part by weight of an antioxidant, based on 100 parts by weight of polybutadiene rubber. It is preferred that the diameter of the core be 36.5 to 43.0 mm.
The thread wound core is composed of a center and a thread rubber wound on the center. As the center, any of a liquid center and a rubber center can be used. As the rubber center, there can be used those obtained by vulcanizing the same rubber composition as that of the solid core.
Rubber threads may be those which have hitherto been used. For example, there can be used those obtained by vulcanizing a rubber composition wherein an antioxidant, a vulcanizing accelerator and sulfur are formulated in a natural rubber or a natural rubber and synthetic polyisoprene. The core is not limited to a solid core or a thread wound core.
A method of coating the inner layer cover on the core is not specifically limited, but may be a normal method. For example, there can be employed a method comprising molding a composition for the inner layer cover into a semi-spherical half-shell in advance, covering a core with two half-shells and then subjecting to a pressure molding at 130 to 170C for 1 to 15 minutes, or a method comprising subjecting the composition for the inner layer cover to an injection molding directly to cover the core. The outer layer cover is coated on the inner layer cover according to the same manner as that of coating the inner layer cover on the core. In the case of 2137~1 molding of the outer layer cover, a dimple may be formed on the surface of the ball, if necessary. Further, if necessary, a paint finishing and stamping may be provided after cover molding.
As explained above, the golf ball of the present invention exhibits a large flying distance and is superior in stability hit be an iron club and hit feeling.
The following Examples and Comparative Examples further illustrate the present invention in detail but are not to be construed to limit the scope thereof.
EXAMPLES
Examples 1 to 13 and Comparative Examples 1 to 14 In order to prepare a core used in the following Examples and Comparative Examples, a composition for a core was prepared using the formulation components shown in Table 1.
The respective compositions for the core thus obtained were charged in a die and vulcanized at 155C for 40 minutes to prepare a core. Further, the amount in Table 1 is "parts by weight". The diameter of the core varies depending on the thickness of the cover so that an outer diameter of the golf ball may be 42.7 mm, and is within a range from 35.7 to 38.3 mm.
Table 1 A B C
Butadiene rubber *1 100 100 100 Zinc acrylate 30 30 30 zinc oxide 22 20 18 Antioxidant *2 0.5 0.5 0.5 Dicumyl peroxide 2.5 2.5 2.5 *1: Hi-cis butadiene rubber, JSR BR01 (trade name) manufactured by Nihon Synthetic Rubber Co., Ltd.
*2: Yoshinox 425 (trade name) manufactured by Yoshitomi Seiyaku Co., Ltd.
A core A is used for Examples 1 to 10, Example 13, Comparative Examples 1 to 4 and Comparative Examples 7 to 14.
A core B is used for Examples 11 and 12, and a core C is used for Comparative Examples 5 and 6. The core which is different from the others is used for Examples 11 and 12 and Comparative Examples 5 and 6 because the ball weight must be adjusted within a range of 45.3 + 0.1 g.
Then, a composition for the inner layer cover and a composition for the outer layer cover used in the Examples and Comparative Examples were prepared using the formulation components shown in Tables 2 and 3. The amount of each component in Tables 2 and 3 is "parts by weight". Each resin was described by its trade mark due to a lack of space and, therefore, the detail will be explained at the back of Table 3.
Further, in Tables 2 and 3, there is described a stiffness modulus of each composition for the cover and an amount of ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion. This ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion is described at the top part in Tables 2 and 3. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is formulated in each composition for the cover in an amount of 2 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the resin component, but the amount is not described in Tables 2 and 3.
-Each composition for the cover was prepared by mixing formulation materials using a kneading type twin-screw extruder. The extrusion conditions are as follows: screw diameter: 45 mm; screw revolution per minute: 200 rpm; screw L/D: 35.
Table 2 A B C D E F G
Hi-milane #1706 *3 50 30 - 10 30 85 100 Hi-milane #1557 *4 Hi-milane #1855 *5 - 20 lotek #7010 *6 - - 50 Hi-milane #1605 *7 35 50 Hi-milane #1707 *8 15 - - 65 30 15 Hi-milane #1555 *9 - - - 25 10 Hi-milane #1856 *10 AD8265 *11 AD8269 *12 lotek #8000 *13 - - 50 Stiffness modulus (Kg/cm2) 3500 30004000 3500 3500 3500 3100 Amount (~ by weight) of ionomer neutralized with50 50 50 10 30 85 100 zinc ion Table 3 Hi-milane #170625 - 20 - - 20 - -Hi-milane #1557 - 30 10 10 - 60 20 Hi-milane #185525 70 30 20 100 - - 80 Lotek #7010 Hi-milane #160525 - - - - 20 100 Hi-milane #1707 Hi-milane #155520 Hi-milane #185615 lotek #8000 Stiffness modulus250015001500 7009002000 3300 1200 (Kg/cm2) Amount (~ by weight) of 15 ionomer neutralized 50 10060 30 100 80 0 100 with zinc ion X3: Hi-milane #1706 (trade mark):
ethylene-methacrylic acid ionomer obtained by neutralizing with a zinc ion manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ml (melt index) = 0.7, stiffness modulus =
2,600 kg/cm2 X4: Hi-milane #1557 ~trade mark):
ethylene-methacrylic acid ionomer obtained by neutralizing with a zinc ion manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ml = 1.0, stiffness modulus = 2,100 kg/cm2 X5: Hi-milane 1855 (trade mark):
ethylene-methacrylic acid ionomer obtained by neutralizing with a zinc ion manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ml = 1.0, stiffness modulus = 900 kg/cm2 21378~1 -X6: Iotek 7010 (trade mark):
ethylene-acrylic acid ionomer obtained by neutralizing with a zinc ion manufactured by Exxon Chemical Co., Ml = 1.0, stiffness modulus = 1,600 kg/cm2 X7: Hi-milane #1605 (trade mark):
ethylene-methacrylic acid ionomer obtained by neutralizing with a sodium ion manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ml = 2.8, stiffness modulus = 3,100 kg/cm2 X8: Hi-milane #1707 (trade mark):
ethylene-methacrylic acid ionomer obtained by neutralizing with a sodium ion manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., MI = 0.9, stiffness modulus = 3,000 kg/cm2 X9: Hi-milane #1555 (trade mark):
ethylene-methacrylic acid ionomer obtained by neutralizing with a sodium ion manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ml = 1.0, stiffness modulus = 2,100 l:g/cm2 X10: Hi-milane #1856 (trade mark):
ethylene-methacrylic acid-acrylate terpolymer obtained by neutralizing with a sodium ion manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ml = 1.0, stiffness modulus = 700 kg/cm2 Xll: AD8265 (trade mark):
ethylene-methacrylic acid-methacrylate terpolymer obtained by neutralizing with a sodium ion manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., MI = 1.9, stiffness modulus:
700 kg/cm2.
2I378gl -X12: AD8269 (trade mark):
ethylene-methacrylic acid-acrylate terpolymer obtained by neutralizing with a sodium ion manufactured by Mitsui Du Pont Polychemical Co., Ml = 0.8, stiffness modulus = 400 kg/cm2 X13: lotek 8000 (trade mark):
ethylene-acrylic acid ionomer obtained by neutralizing with a sodium ion manufactured by Exxon Chemical Co., MI = 0.8, stiffness modulus = 3,800 kg/cm2 Then, a combination of the inner layer cover and outer layer cover as shown in Tables 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14 was coated on the above core to prepare a golf ball. The preparation method is as shown below.
Firstly, a semi-spherical half-shell was molded from a composition for the inner layer cover, and the above core was covered with two half-shells and subjected to a press molding in a die at 150C for 8 minutes.
Similarly, a half-shell was molded from a composition for the outer layer cover, and the core coated with the inner layer cover was covered with two half-shells and subjected to a press molding in a die for golf ball at 150C for 8 minutes to obtain a golf ball. The resulting golf ball was painted to give a coated golf ball of 42.7 mm in diameter. Each golf ball has a weight of not more than 45.4 g and satisfies the standard for weight.
Then, the ball compression (PGA system), the durability, the low temperature durability, the flying performance, the control properties by means of iron and the hit feeling of the resulting golf ball were examined. The results are shown in .
the following tables. The measuring method thereof is as follows.
Durability:
A golf ball was hit with a No. 1 wood club at a head speed of 45 m/second using a swing robot manufactured by True Temper Co. (trade mark), and the number of times until breakage took place was measured. The resulting value was indicated as an index in case of the value of the golf ball of Example 1 being 100.
Low temperature durabilitY:
A golf ball was maintained at -20C and hit with a No. 1 wood club at a head speed of 45 m/second 50 times using a swing robot manufactured by True Temper Co. (trade mark). The test was conducted on ten golf balls. The results are evaluated by the following criteria:
0: All ten golf balls were not broken.
X: One or more golf balls were broken.
Flying performances:
Flying performances are e~m;ned by hitting the golf ball with a No. 1 wood club (wood #1) and a No. 9 iron club (iron #9) using a swing robot manufactured by True Temper Co.
(trade mark).
The golf ball was hit with the No. 1 wood club at a head speed of 45 m/second to measure the initial velocity and the carry (distance up to the point where the golf ball dropped to the ground).
The golf ball was hit with the No. 9 iron club at a head speed of 34 m/second to measure the spin, the carry, the run (distance of the golf ball from the point where the golf ball dropped to the ground until it stopped) and the total (total of the carry and the run). The spin is determined by taking a photograph of the golf ball.
Control ~ro~erties by means of iron:
This property is evaluated by hitting the golf ball by 10 top professional golfers. The evaluation was conducted by the following criteria:
0: The golf ball is liable to be stopped by a short iron, control properties are good.
X: The golf ball is not easily stopped by a short iron, control properties are inferior.
Hit feelinq:
This is evaluated by hitting the golf ball by 10 top professional golfers. The evaluation was conducted by the following criteria:
0: Soft feeling similar to that of a balata thread wound golf ball, and resiliency is good ~ : Soft feeling XH: Hard and inferior XS: Too soft and heavy, and resiliency is inferior In Tables 4 to 15, the kind (indicated by the symbol in Tables 2 to 3), the stiffness modulus, the amount of the ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion (represented by the "proportion of Zn") and the thickness of the composition for the inner layer cover, the kind, the stiffness modulus and the thickness of the composition for outer layer cover, the total thickness of the cover of the golf ball, the compression, the durability, the low temperature durability, the flying performances (No. 1 wood club is represented by "wood #1~ and No. 9 iron club is represented by "iron #9"), the control properties and hit feeling by means of iron are shown according to the respective Examples and Comparative Examples.
Further, regarding the golf balls of Comparative Examples 8 to 11, the cover is composed of a single layer and, therefore, the composition for the cover, the stiffness modulus and the thickness are shown in the item of the "outer layer cover". Further, since the golf ball of Comparative Example 12 is a commercially available thread wound golf ball with a balata cover, the description about the cover in the table is omitted.
-Tab1e 4 Example No.
Inner layer cover Composition for cover B A C A A
Stiffness modulus (kg/cm2) 3000 3500 4000 3500 3500 Protection (% by wt) of Zn 50 50 50 50 50 Thi~n~s.s (mm) 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 Outer layer cover Compositon for cover - I I I O M
Stiffness modulus (kg/cm2) 1500 1500 1$00 1200 2000 Thirl~n~ss (mm) 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7 Characteristic of ball Total thickness of cover (mm) 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2 Compression 98.0 98.5 99.0 98.0 99.0 Durability 102 100 98 102 99 Low temperature durability O O O O O
-Tab1e 5 Example No.
Flying performance Wood #l Ball initial velocity (m/sec) 65.5 65.7 65.9 65.5 65.8 Carry (yards) 232 233 234 233 233.5 Iron #9 Spin (rpm) 8300 8250 8200 8400 8200 Carry (yards) 135.0 135.5 136.0 134.5 135.5 Run (yards) - 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 Total (yards) 135.5 136.0 136.5 135.0 136.0 Control propellies by means of iron O O O O O
Hit feeling O O O O O
-Tab1e 6 Example No.
Inner layer cover Composition for cover A D E F G
Stiffness modulus (k/cm2) 3500 3500 3500 3500 3100 Proportion (% by wt) of Zn 50 5 30 85 100 Thir~n~ss (mm) 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 Outer layer cover Stiffness modulus (k/cm~) H
Proportion (% by wt) of Zn 2500 1500 1500 1500 1500 0 Thickness (mm) 0.7 0.7 0.7 0-7 0-7 Characteristics of ball Total thirLn~e~ of cover (mm) 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2 Co~ ression 99.5 98.5 98.5 98.5 98.0 Durability 98 100 100 100 l01 Low telllpel~lul~ durability O O O O O
-Table 7 Example No.
Flying performance Wood #l Ball initial velocity (m/sec) 66.0 65.7 65.7 65.7 65.5 Carry (yards) 234.5 233 233 233 232 Iron #9 Spin (rpm) 8100 8250 8250 8250 8300 Carry (yards) 136.0 135.5 135.5 135.5 135.0 Run (yards) 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0 Total (yards) 136.5 136.0 136.0 136.0 135.5 Control properties by means of iron O O O O O
Hit feeling O O O O O
., Tab1e 8 Example No.
Inner layer cover Composition for cover A A A
Stiffness modulus (kJcm2) 3500 3500 3500 Proportion (% by wt) of Zn 50 50 50 Thir~n~s~ (mm) 0.5 2.5 1.5 Outer layer cover Stiffness modulus (k/cm2) I I J
Proportion (% by wt) of Zn 1500 1500 1500 Thir~n~ss (mm) 2.5 0.5 0.7 Characteristics of ball Total thir1~nP~s of cover (mm) 3.0 3.0 2.2 Co~ cssion 97.0 99.5 98.5 Durability 103 101 100 Low l~m~?elalulc durability O O O
213784~
Tab1e 9 Example No.
Flying performance Wood #l Ball initial velocity (m/sec) 65.4 65.9 65.7 Carry (yards) 231.5 234 233 Iron #9 Spin (rpm) 8450 8200 8250 Carry (yards) 134.5 136.0 135.5 Run (yards) 0.5 0.5 0.5 Total (yards) 135.0 136.5 136.0 Control propellies by means of iron O O O
Hit feeling O O O
-Table 10 Colllpal~liv~ Example No.
Irmer layer cover Composition for cover H A A - N A
Stiffness modulus (kg/cm23 2500 3500 3500 3300 3500 Protection (% by wt) of Zn 50 50 50 0 50 Thickness (mm) 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 0.5 Outer layer cover Compositon for cover I K B
Stiffness modulus (kg/cm2) 1500 700 3000 1500 1500 ThicknPs~ (mm) 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7 3.0 Characteristic of ball Total thickn~ss of cover (mm) 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2 3.5 Colllplession 97.5 97.5 100.0 98.5 97.0 Durability 103 104 94 100 104 Low t~ elalul~ durability O O O X O
Tab1e 11 Co~ ald~ive Example No.
Flying pclÇollllallce Wood #l Ball initial velocity (m/sec) 65.2 65.4 66.2 65.6 65.0 Carry (yards) 229.5 230 235.5 232.5 228.5 Iron #9 Spin (rpm) 8400 8350 7700 8250 8550 Carry (yards) 132.0 133.0 135.0 135.5 132.0 Run (yards) 0.5 0.5 2.5 0.5 0.5 0 Total (yards) 132.5 133.5 137.5 136.0 132.5 Control propellies by means of iron O O X O O
Hit feeling XS XS XH O XS
Table 12 Co~ ala~ive Example No.
Inner layer cover Composition for cover A I - - -Stiffness modulus (k/cm2) 3500 1500 - - -Proportion (% by wt) of Zn 50 100 ThirLn~ss (mm) 3.0 1.5 Outer layer cover Stiffness modulus (k/cm2) I A I H A
Proportion (% by wt) of Zn 1500 3500 1500 2500 3500 0 Thickness (mm) 0.5 0.7 2.2 2.2 2.2 Characteristics of ball Total thickness of cover (mm) 3.5 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2 Colll~lcssion 100.0 96.0 95.5 96.5 98.5 Durability 98 90 105 102 92 Low temperature durability O O O O O
.
Table 13 Co~ alalive Example No.
Flying performance Wood #l Ball initial velocity (m/sec) 66.1 65.1 64.7 65.2 65.6 Carry (yards) 234.5 229.0 226.5 229.5 234.0 Iron #9 Spin (rpm) 7700 7650 8600 8200 7600 Carry (yards) 136.5 132.5 127.0 130.0 136.0 Run (yards) 2.5 2.0 0.5 0.5 2.5 0 Total (yards) 139.0 134.5 127.5 130.5 138.5 Control prope,lies by means of iron X X O O X
Hit feeling XH XH XS XS XH
Table 14 Coln~?alativc Example No.
Inner layer cover Composition for cover - - N N
Stiffness modulus (k/cm2) - - 3300 3300 Proportion (% by wt) of Zn - - 0 0 Thir~n~ss (mm) - - 1.5 0.7 Outer layer cover Stiffness modulus (k/cm2) C - L L
Proportion (% by wt) of Zn 4000 - 900 900 Thirl~n~s~ (mm) 2.2 - 0.7 1.5 Characteristics of ball Total thir~nPs~ of cover (mm) 2.2 - 2.2 2.2 Compression 99.5 95.0 98.0 97.0 Durability 88 70 104 107 Low telll~el~lulc durability O O X X
~r37r~l t -- 32 Tab1e 15 Co~ al~Liv~ Example No.
Flying performance Wood #l Ball initial velocity (m/sec) 66.3 64.8 65.3 65.0 Carry (yards) 235.5 228.5 230.0 228.5 Iron #9 Spin (rpm) 7400 8700 8350 8450 Carry (yards) 137.0 129.5 134.0 133.0 Run (yards) 3.0 0.5 0.5 0.5 0 Total (yards) 140.0 130.0 134.5 133.5 Control plopellies by means of iron X O O O
Hit feeling XH ~ XS XS
.
Firstly, a comparison golf ball will be explained. Among the golf balls of the above Comparative Examples, the golf ball of Comparative Example 10 is a conventional typical two-piece solid golf ball. This golf ball of Comparative Example 10 exhibits a large flying distance, as shown in Table 15, but the control properties when hit by an iron are inferior. Further, the hit feeling is hard and inferior.
The golf ball of Comparative Example 12 is a commercially available thread wound golf ball with a balata cover.
Regarding this golf ball of Comparative Example 12, as shown in Tables 14 and 15, the control properties when hit by an iron are good and the hit feeling is soft, but the durability is inferior. Further, the flying distance is small in comparison with the two-piece golf ball of Comparative Example 10.
Then, the characteristics of the golf balls of Examples 1 to 13 of the present invention will be explained in comparison with the typical two-piece solid golf ball of Comparative Example 10, and the commercially available thread wound golf ball with a balata cover of Comparative Example 12. As shown in Tables 1 to 9, the golf balls of Examples 1 to 13 of the present invention exhibit a large flying distance which is almost the same as that of the conventional typical two-piece solid golf ball of Comparative Example 10, and the durability is superior to the golf ball of Comparative Example 10.
Further, the golf balls of Examples 1 to 13 of the present invention are superior in control properties when hit by an iron and the hit feeling is also good. They are better -21378~ 1 than the commercially available thread wound golf ball with a balata cover of Comparative Examples 12.
That is, the golf balls of Examples 1 to 13 of the present invention exhibit a large flying distance and are superior in stability when hit with an iron and hit feeling.
On the contrary, the golf balls of Comparative Examples 1 to 14 were inferior in flying distance, control properties when hit with an iron or hit feeling.
For example, the golf ball of Comparative Example 7 is a golf ball wherein the inner layer cover is soft and the outer layer cover is hard. Since the outer layer cover is hard, the hit feeling is hard and inferior as shown in Table 13.
Further, the golf ball is inferior in control properties when hit with an iron and lacks in stability when hit with an iron.
Further, the golf balls of Comparative Example 13 to 14 are golf balls wherein the inner layer cover is hard and the outer layer cover is soft. Since the outer layer cover is too soft, the low temperature durability is inferior, as shown in Table 14. Further, as shown in Table 15, the hit feeling is heavy and resiliency is inferior, and it is not preferred.
Claims (4)
1. A golf ball comprising a core and a cover for covering said core, said cover comprising two layers consisting of an inner layer cover and an outer layer cover, the stiffness modulus of the inner layer cover being 3,000 to 5,500 kg/cm2, the stiffness modulus of the outer layer cover being 1,000 to
2,500 kg/cm2, the thickness of the inner layer cover being 0.5 to 2.5 mm, the thickness of the outer layer being 0.5 to 2.5 mm, the total thickness of the inner layer cover and the outer layer cover being 1.0 to 4.5 mm and a base resin of the inner layer cover containing 5 to 100 by weight of an ionomer neutralized with a zinc ion.
2. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein said outer layer cover has a stiffness modulus of 1,000 to 2,300 Kg/cm2 and a thickness of 0.6 to 2.3 mm.
2. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein said outer layer cover has a stiffness modulus of 1,000 to 2,300 Kg/cm2 and a thickness of 0.6 to 2.3 mm.
3. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein said inner layer cover has a stiffness modulus of 3,200 to 5,000 Kg/cm2 and a thickness of 0.6 to 2.3 mm.
4. The golf ball according to claim 1, wherein said core is either a thread-wound core or a solid core.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| JP351591/1993 | 1993-12-29 | ||
| JP35159193A JP3257890B2 (en) | 1993-12-29 | 1993-12-29 | Golf ball |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2137841A1 true CA2137841A1 (en) | 1995-06-30 |
Family
ID=18418313
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002137841A Abandoned CA2137841A1 (en) | 1993-12-29 | 1994-12-12 | Golf ball |
Country Status (7)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US5586950A (en) |
| EP (1) | EP0661082B1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JP3257890B2 (en) |
| KR (1) | KR100301540B1 (en) |
| AU (1) | AU685866B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2137841A1 (en) |
| DE (1) | DE69419706T2 (en) |
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-
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- 1993-12-29 JP JP35159193A patent/JP3257890B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
1994
- 1994-12-07 AU AU80270/94A patent/AU685866B2/en not_active Ceased
- 1994-12-08 DE DE69419706T patent/DE69419706T2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1994-12-08 EP EP94309149A patent/EP0661082B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1994-12-12 CA CA002137841A patent/CA2137841A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1994-12-29 US US08/365,949 patent/US5586950A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1994-12-29 KR KR1019940038820A patent/KR100301540B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
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| USRE42801E1 (en) | 1993-07-08 | 2011-10-04 | Bridgestone Sports Co., Ltd. | Three-piece solid golf ball |
| US6290614B1 (en) | 1998-03-18 | 2001-09-18 | Spalding Sports Worldwide, Inc. | Golf ball which includes fast-chemical-reaction-produced component and method of making same |
| US6716954B2 (en) | 1998-03-18 | 2004-04-06 | Callaway Golf Company | Golf ball formed from a polyisocyanate copolymer and method of making same |
| US6787582B2 (en) | 1999-12-23 | 2004-09-07 | Callaway Golf Company | Game balls with cover containing post crosslinkable thermoplastic polyurethane and method of making same |
| US6369125B1 (en) | 1999-12-23 | 2002-04-09 | Spalding Sports Worldwide, Inc. | Game balls with cover containing post crosslinkable thermoplastic polyurethane and method of making same |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| AU8027094A (en) | 1995-07-06 |
| JP3257890B2 (en) | 2002-02-18 |
| JPH07194736A (en) | 1995-08-01 |
| US5586950A (en) | 1996-12-24 |
| DE69419706T2 (en) | 2000-04-27 |
| KR950016803A (en) | 1995-07-20 |
| DE69419706D1 (en) | 1999-09-02 |
| EP0661082B1 (en) | 1999-07-28 |
| KR100301540B1 (en) | 2001-11-22 |
| EP0661082A1 (en) | 1995-07-05 |
| AU685866B2 (en) | 1998-01-29 |
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