Designing the Perfect Dimple Pattern

In the NY Times, Nick Bakalar writes in the Keeping Score column about the research being done jointly in Arizona and Maryland on finding the true impact of dimples and dimple patterns on the golf ball. It's not very technical, but is interesting to read how scientists may be (a) so bored that they have to research golf ball dimples and (b) that they may try to apply the aerodynamic findings to other applications.

11 months ago Ryan Ballengee 4 comments 0 recs |

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lots of cash on the line...

real quick – this is “research” being done at 2 state universities – college students doing projects. be thankful this isn’t some bozo who got a taxpayer funded gubmint grant. you have to have something to do in these classes.

I wish I had my copy of “The Downhill Lie” by Carl Hiassen. In the fourth chapter, he talks about playing with the Pro V1 and the particular dimple pattern they use at Titleist. Whatever the shape is, the definition is that the sides are planes – which is impossible on a sphere – OR – the Pro V1 isn’t a sphere. Funny stuff.

"this ball will fit in that fairway"

by courtgolf on Dec 1, 2008 11:48 AM EST reply actions 0 recs

Very interesting

I do have a feeling that the money in question to fund this came from the USGA, but I’m not certain on that.

That is pretty funny, though. I’m putting together this week’s show with a pre-recorded interview with Tom Wishon. Always good to have him on to talk equipment.

by Ryan Ballengee on Dec 1, 2008 11:57 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I'm just glad...

…it’s not my tax dollars going to fund some ridiculous study. At least some kids are getting a grade out of it. Maybe the USGA will find some way to scale back the ball so courses don’t have to keep getting longer.

"this ball will fit in that fairway"

by courtgolf on Dec 1, 2008 12:01 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs