Patent Publication Number: US-10315076-B2

Title: Dimple patterns for golf balls

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/848,047, filed Dec. 20, 2017, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/387,766, filed Dec. 22, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,873,021, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/242,217, filed Aug. 19, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,925,418, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/973,237, filed Aug. 22, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,468,810, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,827, filed Sep. 30, 2010, now abandoned, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/262,464, filed Oct. 31, 2008, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,029,388, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates to golf balls, particularly to golf balls possessing uniquely packed dimple patterns. More particularly, the invention relates to methods of arranging dimples on a golf ball by generating irregular domains based on polyhedrons, packing the irregular domains with dimples, and tessellating the domains onto the surface of the golf ball. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Historically, dimple patterns for golf balls have had a variety of geometric shapes, patterns, and configurations. Primarily, patterns are laid out in order to provide desired performance characteristics based on the particular ball construction, material attributes, and player characteristics influencing the ball&#39;s initial launch angle and spin conditions. Therefore, pattern development is a secondary design step that is used to achieve the appropriate aerodynamic behavior, thereby tailoring ball flight characteristics and performance. 
     Aerodynamic forces generated by a ball in flight are a result of its velocity and spin. These forces can be represented by a lift force and a drag force. Lift force is perpendicular to the direction of flight and is a result of air velocity differences above and below the rotating ball. This phenomenon is attributed to Magnus, who described it in 1853 after studying the aerodynamic forces on spinning spheres and cylinders, and is described by Bernoulli&#39;s Equation, a simplification of the first law of thermodynamics. Bernoulli&#39;s equation relates pressure and velocity where pressure is inversely proportional to the square of velocity. The velocity differential, due to faster moving air on top and slower moving air on the bottom, results in lower air pressure on top and an upward directed force on the ball. 
     Drag is opposite in sense to the direction of flight and orthogonal to lift. The drag force on a ball is attributed to parasitic drag forces, which consist of pressure drag and viscous or skin friction drag. A sphere is a bluff body, which is an inefficient aerodynamic shape. As a result, the accelerating flow field around the ball causes a large pressure differential with high-pressure forward and low-pressure behind the ball. The low pressure area behind the ball is also known as the wake. In order to minimize pressure drag, dimples provide a means to energize the flow field and delay the separation of flow, or reduce the wake region behind the ball. Skin friction is a viscous effect residing close to the surface of the ball within the boundary layer. 
     The industry has seen many efforts to maximize the aerodynamic efficiency of golf balls, through dimple disturbance and other methods, though they are closely controlled by golf&#39;s national governing body, the United States Golf Association (U.S.G.A.). One U.S.G.A. requirement is that golf balls have aerodynamic symmetry. Aerodynamic symmetry allows the ball to fly with a very small amount of variation no matter how the golf ball is placed on the tee or ground. Preferably, dimples cover the maximum surface area of the golf ball without detrimentally affecting the aerodynamic symmetry of the golf ball. 
     In attempts to improve aerodynamic symmetry, many dimple patterns are based on geometric shapes. These may include circles, hexagons, triangles, and the like. Other dimple patterns are based in general on the five Platonic Solids including icosahedron, dodecahedron, octahedron, cube, or tetrahedron. Yet other dimple patterns are based on the thirteen Archimedian Solids, such as the small icosidodecahedron, rhomicosidodecahedron, small rhombicuboctahedron, snub cube, snub dodecahedron, or truncated icosahedron. Furthermore, other dimple patterns are based on hexagonal dipyramids. Because the number of symmetric solid plane systems is limited, it is difficult to devise new symmetric patterns. Moreover, dimple patterns based some of these geometric shapes result in less than optimal surface coverage and other disadvantageous dimple arrangements. Therefore, dimple properties such as number, shape, size, volume, and arrangement are often manipulated in an attempt to generate a golf ball that has improved aerodynamic properties. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,562,552 to Thurman discloses a golf ball with an icosahedral dimple pattern, wherein each triangular face of the icosahedron is split by a three straight lines which each bisect a corner of the face to form 3 triangular faces for each icosahedral face, wherein the dimples are arranged consistently on the icosahedral faces. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,046,742 to Mackey discloses a golf ball with dimples packed into a 32-sided polyhedron composed of hexagons and pentagons, wherein the dimple packing is the same in each hexagon and in each pentagon. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,998,733 to Lee discloses a golf ball formed of ten “spherical” hexagons each split into six equilateral triangles, wherein each triangle is split by a bisecting line extending between a vertex of the triangle and the midpoint of the side opposite the vertex, and the bisecting lines are oriented to achieve improved symmetry. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,682,442 to Winfield discloses the use of polygons as packing elements for dimples to introduce predictable variance into the dimple pattern. The polygons extend from the poles of the ball to a parting line. Any space not filled with dimples from the polygons is filled with other dimples. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a golf ball having an outer surface comprising a parting line and a plurality of dimples. The dimples are arranged in multiple copies of one or more irregular domain(s) covering the outer surface in a uniform pattern. The irregular domain(s) are defined by non-straight segments, and one of the non-straight segments of each of the multiple copies of the irregular domain(s) forms a portion of the parting line. 
     In another embodiment, the present invention is directed to a method for arranging a plurality of dimples on a golf ball surface. The method comprises generating a first and a second irregular domain based on a tetrahedron using a midpoint to midpoint method, mapping the first and second irregular domains onto a sphere, packing the first and second irregular domains with dimples, and tessellating the first and second domains to cover the sphere in a uniform pattern. The midpoint to midpoint method comprises providing a single face of the tetrahedron, the face comprising a first edge connected to a second edge at a vertex; connecting the midpoint of the first edge with the midpoint of the second edge with a non-straight segment; rotating copies of the segment about the center of the face such that the segment and the copies fully surround the center and form the first irregular domain bounded by the segment and the copies; and rotating subsequent copies of the segment about the vertex such that the segment and the subsequent copies fully surround the vertex and form the second irregular domain bounded by the segment and the subsequent copies. 
     In another embodiment, the present invention is directed to a golf ball having an outer surface comprising a plurality of dimples, wherein the dimples are arranged by a method comprising generating a first and a second irregular domain based on a tetrahedron using a midpoint to midpoint method, mapping the first and second irregular domains onto a sphere, packing the first and second irregular domains with dimples, and tessellating the first and second domains to cover the sphere in a uniform pattern. 
     In another embodiment, the present invention is directed to a golf ball having an outer surface comprising a plurality of dimples disposed thereon, wherein the dimples are arranged in multiple copies of a first domain and a second domain, the first domain and the second domain being tessellated to cover the outer surface of the golf ball in a uniform pattern having no great circles and consisting of four first domains and four second domains. The dimple pattern within the first domain is different from the dimple pattern within the second domain. The plurality of dimples comprises dimples having at least two different diameters, including a maximum dimple diameter and a minimum dimple diameter. The first domain and the second domain each consist of perimeter dimples and interior dimples. In a particular aspect of this embodiment, the perimeter dimples of the first domain consist of dimples having no more than two different diameters, the perimeter dimples of the second domain consist of dimples having at least two different diameters, and the diameter of at least one perimeter dimple is the maximum dimple diameter. In another particular aspect of this embodiment, the interior dimples of the first domain consist of dimples having at least three different diameters, the interior dimples of the second domain consist of dimples having no more than two different diameters, the diameter of at least one dimple in the first domain is the minimum dimple diameter, and the diameter of at least one dimple in the second domain is the minimum dimple diameter. In another particular aspect of this embodiment, none of the perimeter dimples of the first domain have a diameter that is the maximum or the minimum dimple diameter, the diameter of at least one of the perimeter dimples of the second domain is the maximum dimple diameter, and the diameter of at least one of the perimeter dimples of the second domain is the minimum dimple diameter. 
     In another embodiment, the present invention is directed to a golf ball having an outer surface comprising a plurality of dimples disposed thereon, wherein the dimples are arranged in multiple copies of a first domain and a second domain, the first domain and the second domain being tessellated to cover the outer surface of the golf ball in a uniform pattern having no great circles and consisting of four first domains and four second domains. The dimple pattern within the first domain is different from the dimple pattern within the second domain. The first domain is defined by three irregular segments and has three-way rotational symmetry about the central point of the first domain. The second domain is defined by three irregular segments and has three-way rotational symmetry about the central point of the second domain. The first domain consists of perimeter dimples and interior dimples, the perimeter dimples of the first domain being positioned adjacent to the three irregular segments defining the first domain. The second domain consists of perimeter dimples and interior dimples, the perimeter dimples of the second domain being positioned adjacent to the three irregular segments defining the second domain. In a particular aspect of this embodiment, all of the perimeter dimples of the first domain satisfy a diameter relationship such that
 
if x dimple 1 &gt;x dimple 2  
 
then d dimple 1 &lt;d dimple 2 ,
 
where dimple  1  and dimple  2  are any two perimeter dimples of the first domain positioned adjacent to a common irregular segment, d is the dimple diameter, and x is the distance from the center of the dimple to the midpoint of a reference line connecting the endpoints of the common irregular segment. In another particular aspect of this embodiment, all of the perimeter dimples of the first domain satisfy a diameter relationship such that
 
if x dimple 1 &gt;x dimple 2  
 
then d dimple 1 &gt;d dimple 2 ,
 
where dimple  1  and dimple  2  are any two perimeter dimples of the first domain positioned adjacent to a common irregular segment, d is the dimple diameter, and x is the distance from the center of the dimple to the midpoint of a reference line connecting the endpoints of the common irregular segment. In another particular aspect of this embodiment, all of the perimeter dimples of the first domain satisfy a diameter relationship such that
 
if x dimple 1 &gt;x dimple 2  
 
then d dimple 1 &lt;d dimple 2 ,
 
where dimple  1  and dimple  2  are any two perimeter dimples of the first domain positioned adjacent to a common irregular segment, d is the dimple diameter, and x is the distance from the center of the dimple to the midpoint of a reference line connecting the endpoints of the common irregular segment of dimple  1  and dimple  2 ; and all of the perimeter dimples of the second domain satisfy a diameter relationship such that
 
if x dimple 3 &gt;x dimple 4  
 
then d dimple 3 &gt;d dimple 4 ,
 
where dimple  3  and dimple  4  are any two perimeter dimples of the second domain positioned adjacent to a common irregular segment, d is the dimple diameter, and x is the distance from the center of the dimple to the midpoint of a reference line connecting the endpoints of the common irregular segment of dimple  3  and dimple  4 .
 
     In another embodiment, the present invention is directed to a golf ball having an outer surface comprising a plurality of dimples disposed thereon, wherein the dimples are arranged in multiple copies of a first domain and a second domain, the first domain and the second domain being tessellated to cover the outer surface of the golf ball in a uniform pattern having no great circles and consisting of four first domains and four second domains. The dimple pattern within the first domain is different from the dimple pattern within the second domain. The first domain is defined by three irregular segments and has three-way rotational symmetry about the central point of the first domain. The second domain is defined by three irregular segments and has three-way rotational symmetry about the central point of the second domain. The first domain consists of perimeter dimples and interior dimples. The perimeter dimples of the first domain are those dimples located within the first domain that are positioned adjacent to the three irregular segments defining the first domain. The interior dimples of the first domain are those dimples located within the first domain that are not positioned adjacent to the three irregular segments defining the first domain. The second domain consists of perimeter dimples and interior dimples. The perimeter dimples of the second domain are those dimples located within the second domain that are positioned adjacent to the three irregular segments defining the second domain. The interior dimples of the second domain are those dimples located within the second domain that are not positioned adjacent to the three irregular segments defining the second domain. In a particular aspect of this embodiment, none of the perimeter dimples of the first domain has the same dimple diameter as a perimeter dimple of the second domain. In another particular aspect of this embodiment, none of the interior dimples of the first domain has the same dimple diameter as an interior dimple of the second domain. In another particular aspect of this embodiment, at least one of the interior dimples of the first domain has the same dimple diameter as a perimeter dimple of the second domain. In another particular aspect of this embodiment, at least one of the interior dimples of the second domain has the same dimple diameter as a perimeter dimple of the first domain. In another particular aspect of this embodiment, the perimeter dimples of the first domain include dimples having at least three different diameters, the interior dimples of the first domain include dimples having at least three different diameters, the perimeter dimples of the second domain include dimples having at least three different diameters, the interior dimples of the second domain include dimples having at least three different diameters, each of the perimeter dimples of the second domain has the same diameter as at least one interior dimple of the second domain, and each of the interior dimples of the second domain has the same diameter as at least one perimeter dimple of the second domain. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the specification and are to be read in conjunction therewith, and in which like reference numerals are used to indicate like parts in the various views: 
         FIG. 1A  illustrates a golf ball having dimples arranged by a method of the present invention;  FIG. 1B  illustrates a polyhedron face;  FIG. 1C  illustrates an element of the present invention in the polyhedron face of  FIG. 1B ;  FIG. 1D  illustrates a domain formed by a methods of the present invention packed with dimples and formed from two elements of  FIG. 1C ; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates a single face of a polyhedron having control points thereon; 
         FIG. 3A  illustrates a polyhedron face;  FIG. 3B  illustrates an element of the present invention packed with dimples;  FIG. 3C  illustrates a domain of the present invention packed with dimples formed from elements of  FIG. 3B ;  FIG. 3D  illustrates a golf ball formed by a method of the present invention formed of the domain of  FIG. 3C ; 
         FIG. 4A  illustrates two polyhedron faces;  FIG. 4B  illustrates a first domain of the present invention in the two polyhedron faces of  FIG. 4A ;  FIG. 4C  illustrates a first domain and a second domain of the present invention in three polyhedron faces;  FIG. 4D  illustrates a golf ball formed by a method of the present invention formed of the domains of  FIG. 4C ; 
         FIG. 5A  illustrates a polyhedron face;  FIG. 5B  illustrates a first domain of the present invention in a polyhedron face;  FIG. 5C  illustrates a first domain and a second domain of the present invention in three polyhedron faces;  FIG. 5D  illustrates a golf ball formed using a method of the present invention formed of the domains of  FIG. 5C ; 
         FIG. 6A  illustrates a polyhedron face;  FIG. 6B  illustrates a portion of a domain of the present invention in the polyhedron face of  FIG. 6A ;  FIG. 6C  illustrates a domain formed by the methods of the present invention;  FIG. 6D  illustrates a golf ball formed using the methods of the present invention formed of domains of  FIG. 6C ; 
         FIG. 7A  illustrates a polyhedron face;  FIG. 7B  illustrates a domain of the present invention in the polyhedron face of  FIG. 7A ;  FIG. 7C  illustrates a golf ball formed by a method of the present invention; 
         FIG. 8A  illustrates a first element of the present invention in a polyhedron face;  FIG. 8B  illustrates a first and a second element of the present invention in the polyhedron face of  FIG. 8A ;  FIG. 8C  illustrates two domains of the present invention composed of first and second elements of  FIG. 8B ;  FIG. 8D  illustrates a single domain of the present invention based on the two domains of  FIG. 8C ;  FIG. 8E  illustrates a golf ball formed using a method of the present invention formed of the domains of  FIG. 8D ; 
         FIG. 9A  illustrates a polyhedron face;  FIG. 9B  illustrates an element of the present invention in the polyhedron face of  FIG. 9A ;  FIG. 9C  illustrates two elements of  FIG. 9B  combining to form a domain of the present invention;  FIG. 9D  illustrates a domain formed by the methods of the present invention based on the elements of  FIG. 9C ;  FIG. 9E  illustrates a golf ball formed using a method of the present invention formed of domains of  FIG. 9D ; 
         FIG. 10A  illustrates a face of a rhombic dodecahedron;  FIG. 10B  illustrates a segment of the present invention in the face of  FIG. 10A ;  FIG. 10C  illustrates the segment of  FIG. 10B  and copies thereof forming a domain of the present invention;  FIG. 10D  illustrates a domain formed by a method of the present invention based on the segments of  FIG. 10C ; and  FIG. 10E  illustrates a golf ball formed by a method of the present invention formed of domains of  FIG. 10D . 
         FIG. 11A  illustrates a tetrahedron face projected on a sphere;  FIG. 11B  illustrates a first domain of the present invention in the tetrahedron face of  FIG. 11A ;  FIG. 11C  illustrates a first domain and a second domain of the present invention projected on a sphere;  FIG. 11D  illustrates the domains of  FIG. 11C  tessellated to cover the surface of a sphere;  FIG. 11E  illustrates a portion of a golf ball formed using a method of the present invention;  FIG. 11F  illustrates another portion of a golf ball formed using a method of the present invention; and  FIG. 11G  illustrates a golf ball formed using a method of the present invention. 
         FIG. 11H  illustrates a portion of a golf ball formed using a method of the present invention;  FIG. 11I  illustrates another portion of a golf ball formed using a method of the present invention; and  FIG. 11J  illustrates a golf ball formed using a method of the present invention. 
         FIG. 11K  illustrates a portion of a golf ball formed using a method of the present invention;  FIG. 11L  illustrates another portion of a golf ball formed using a method of the present invention; and  FIG. 11M  illustrates another portion of a golf ball formed using a method of the present invention. 
         FIG. 11N  illustrates a portion of a golf ball formed using a method of the present invention;  FIG. 11O  illustrates another portion of a golf ball formed using a method of the present invention; and  FIG. 11P  illustrates another portion of a golf ball formed using a method of the present invention. 
         FIG. 11Q  illustrates a first domain and a portion of a second domain according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIGS. 11R-11S  illustrate a first domain with perimeter dimples and a portion of a second domain with perimeter dimples according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 11T  illustrates a second domain with perimeter dimples and a portion of a first domain with perimeter dimples according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 11U  illustrates the first domain and second domain of  FIGS. 11R-11T . 
         FIG. 11V  illustrates a first domain with perimeter dimples and a portion of a second domain with perimeter dimples according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 11W  illustrates a second domain with perimeter dimples and a portion of a first domain with perimeter dimples according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 11X  illustrates the first domain and second domain of  FIGS. 11V-11W . 
         FIGS. 12A and 12B  illustrate a method for determining nearest neighbor dimples. 
         FIG. 13  is a schematic diagram illustrating a method for measuring the diameter of a dimple. 
         FIG. 14A  illustrates a first domain with dimples and a portion of a second domain according to an embodiment of the present invention;  FIG. 14B  illustrates a second domain with dimples and a portion of a first domain according to an embodiment of the present invention; and  FIG. 14C  illustrates a portion of a golf ball according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 15A  illustrates a first domain with dimples and a portion of a second domain according to an embodiment of the present invention;  FIG. 15B  illustrates a second domain with dimples and a portion of a first domain according to an embodiment of the present invention; and  FIG. 15C  illustrates a portion of a golf ball according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The present invention provides a method for arranging dimples on a golf ball surface in a pattern derived from at least one irregular domain generated from a regular or non-regular polyhedron. The method includes choosing control points of a polyhedron, connecting the control points with a non-straight sketch line, patterning the sketch line in a first manner to generate an irregular domain, optionally patterning the sketch line in a second manner to create an additional irregular domain, packing the irregular domain(s) with dimples, and tessellating the irregular domain(s) to cover the surface of the golf ball in a uniform pattern. The control points include the center of a polyhedral face, a vertex of the polyhedron, a midpoint or other point on an edge of the polyhedron, and others. The method ensures that the symmetry of the underlying polyhedron is preserved while minimizing or eliminating great circles due to parting lines from the molding process. 
     In a particular embodiment, illustrated in  FIG. 1A , the present invention comprises a golf ball  10  comprising dimples  12 . Dimples  12  are arranged by packing irregular domains  14  with dimples, as seen best in  FIG. 1D . Irregular domains  14  are created in such a way that, when tessellated on the surface of golf ball  10 , they impart greater orders of symmetry to the surface than prior art balls. The irregular shape of domains  14  additionally minimize the appearance and effect of the golf ball parting line from the molding process, and allows greater flexibility in arranging dimples than would be available with regularly shaped domains. 
     For purposes of the present invention, the term “irregular domains” refers to domains wherein at least one, and preferably all, of the segments defining the borders of the domain is not a straight line. 
     The irregular domains can be defined through the use of any one of the exemplary methods described herein. Each method produces one or more unique domains based on circumscribing a sphere with the vertices of a regular polyhedron. The vertices of the circumscribed sphere based on the vertices of the corresponding polyhedron with origin (0,0,0) are defined below in Table 1. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Vertices of Circumscribed Sphere based on Corresponding 
               
               
                 Polyhedron Vertices 
               
            
           
           
               
               
            
               
                 Type of 
                   
               
               
                 Polyhedron 
                 Vertices 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Tetrahedron 
                 (+1, +1, +1); (−1, −1, +1); (−1, +1, −1); (+1, −1, −1) 
               
               
                 Cube 
                 (±1, ±1, ±1) 
               
               
                 Octahedron 
                 (±1, 0, 0); (0, ±1, 0); (0, 0, ±1) 
               
               
                 Dodecahedron 
                 (±1, ±1, ±1); (0, ±1/φ, ±φ); (±1/φ, ±φ, 0); (±φ, 0, ±1/φ)* 
               
               
                 Icosahedron 
                 (0, ±1, ±φ); (±1, ±φ, 0); (±φ, 0, ±1)* 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 *φ = (1 + √5)/2 
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Each method has a unique set of rules which are followed for the domain to be symmetrically patterned on the surface of the golf ball. Each method is defined by the combination of at least two control points. These control points, which are taken from one or more faces of a regular or non-regular polyhedron, consist of at least three different types: the center C of a polyhedron face; a vertex V of a face of a regular polyhedron; and the midpoint M of an edge of a face of the polyhedron.  FIG. 2  shows an exemplary face  16  of a polyhedron (a regular dodecahedron in this case) and one of each a center C, a midpoint M, a vertex V, and an edge E on face  16 . The two control points C, M, or V may be of the same or different types. Accordingly, six types of methods for use with regular polyhedrons are defined as follows:
         1. Center to midpoint (C→M);   2. Center to center (C→C);   3. Center to vertex (C→V);   4. Midpoint to midpoint (M→M);   5. Midpoint to Vertex (M→V); and   6. Vertex to Vertex (V→V).       

     While each method differs in its particulars, they all follow the same basic scheme. First, a non-linear sketch line is drawn connecting the two control points. This sketch line may have any shape, including, but not limited, to an arc, a spline, two or more straight or arcuate lines or curves, or a combination thereof. Second, the sketch line is patterned in a method specific manner to create a domain, as discussed below. Third, when necessary, the sketch line is patterned in a second fashion to create a second domain. 
     While the basic scheme is consistent for each of the six methods, each method preferably follows different steps in order to generate the domains from a sketch line between the two control points, as described below with reference to each of the methods individually. 
     The Center to Vertex Method 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 1A-1D , the center to vertex method yields one domain that tessellates to cover the surface of golf ball  10 . The domain is defined as follows:
         1. A regular polyhedron is chosen ( FIGS. 1A-1D  use an icosahedron);   2. A single face  16  of the regular polyhedron is chosen, as shown in  FIG. 1B ;   3. Center C of face  16 , and a first vertex V 1  of face  16  are connected with any non-linear sketch line, hereinafter referred to as a segment  18 ;   4. A copy  20  of segment  18  is rotated about center C, such that copy  20  connects center C with vertex V 2  adjacent to vertex V 1 . The two segments  18  and  20  and the edge E connecting vertices V 1  and V 2  define an element  22 , as shown best in  FIG. 1C ; and   5. Element  22  is rotated about midpoint M of edge E to create a domain  14 , as shown best in  FIG. 1D .       

     When domain  14  is tessellated to cover the surface of golf ball  10 , as shown in  FIG. 1A , a different number of total domains  14  will result depending on the regular polyhedron chosen as the basis for control points C and V 1 . The number of domains  14  used to cover the surface of golf ball  10  is equal to the number of faces P F  of the polyhedron chosen times the number of edges P E  per face of the polyhedron divided by 2, as shown below in Table 2. 
                     TABLE 2                  Domains Resulting From Use of Specific Polyhedra       When Using the Center to Vertex Method                                 Number       Number of        Type of Polyhedron   of Faces, P F     Number of Edges, P E     Domains 14                                     Tetrahedron   4   3   6       Cube   6   4   12       Octahedron   8   3   12       Dodecahedron   12   5   30       Icosahedron   20   3   30                    
The Center to Midpoint Method
 
     Referring to  FIGS. 3A-3D , the center to midpoint method yields a single irregular domain that can be tessellated to cover the surface of golf ball  10 . The domain is defined as follows:
         1. A regular polyhedron is chosen ( FIGS. 3A-3D  use a dodecahedron);   2. A single face  16  of the regular polyhedron is chosen, as shown in  FIG. 3A ;   3. Center C of face  16 , and midpoint M 1  of a first edge E 1  of face  16  are connected with a segment  18 ;   4. A copy  20  of segment  18  is rotated about center C, such that copy  20  connects center C with a midpoint M 2  of a second edge E 2  adjacent to first edge E 1 . The two segments  16  and  18  and the portions of edge E 1  and edge E 2  between midpoints M 1  and M 2  define an element  22 ; and   5. Element  22  is patterned about vertex V of face  16  which is contained in element  22  and connects edges E 1  and E 2  to create a domain  14 .       

     When domain  14  is tessellated around a golf ball  10  to cover the surface of golf ball  10 , as shown in  FIG. 3D , a different number of total domains  14  will result depending on the regular polyhedron chosen as the basis for control points C and M 1 . The number of domains  14  used to cover the surface of golf ball  10  is equal to the number of vertices P V  of the chosen polyhedron, as shown below in Table 3. 
                     TABLE 3                  Domains Resulting From Use of Specific Polyhedra       When Using the Center to Midpoint Method                         Type of Polyhedron   Number of Vertices, P V     Number of Domains 14                                 Tetrahedron   4   4       Cube   8   8       Octahedron   6   6       Dodecahedron   20   20       Icosahedron   12   12                    
The Center to Center Method
 
     Referring to  FIGS. 4A-4D , the center to center method yields two domains that can be tessellated to cover the surface of golf ball  10 . The domains are defined as follows:
         1. A regular polyhedron is chosen ( FIGS. 4A-4D  use a dodecahedron);   2. Two adjacent faces  16   a  and  16   b  of the regular polyhedron are chosen, as shown in  FIG. 4A ;   3. Center C 1  of face  16   a , and center C 2  of face  16   b  are connected with a segment  18 ;   4. A copy  20  of segment  18  is rotated 180 degrees about the midpoint M between centers C 1  and C 2 , such that copy  20  also connects center C 1  with center C 2 , as shown in  FIG. 4B . The two segments  16  and  18  define a first domain  14   a ; and   5. Segment  18  is rotated equally about vertex V to define a second domain  14   b , as shown in  FIG. 4C .       

     When first domain  14   a  and second domain  14   b  are tessellated to cover the surface of golf ball  10 , as shown in  FIG. 4D , a different number of total domains  14   a  and  14   b  will result depending on the regular polyhedron chosen as the basis for control points C 1  and C 2 . The number of first and second domains  14   a  and  14   b  used to cover the surface of golf ball  10  is P F *P E /2 for first domain  14   a  and P V  for second domain  14   b , as shown below in Table 4. 
                     TABLE 4                  Domains Resulting From Use of Specific Polyhedra When Using the       Center to Center Method                                         Number   Number           Number of           of   of First   Number   Number   Second       Type of   Vertices,   Domains   of   of   Domains       Polyhedron   P V     14a   Faces, P F     Edges, P E     14b                                             Tetrahedron   4   6   4   3   4       Cube   8   12   6   4   8       Octahedron   6   9   8   3   6       Dodecahedron   20   30   12   5   20       Icosahedron   12   18   20   3   12                    
The Midpoint to Midpoint Method
 
     Referring to  FIGS. 5A-5D, 11A-11X, 14A-14C, and 15A-15C , the midpoint to midpoint method yields two domains that tessellate to cover the surface of golf ball  10 . The domains are defined as follows:
         1. A regular polyhedron is chosen ( FIGS. 5A-5D  use a dodecahedron,  FIGS. 11A-11X, 14A-14C, and 15A-15C  use a tetrahedron);   2. A single face  16  of the regular polyhedron is projected onto a sphere, as shown in  FIGS. 5A and 11A ;   3. The midpoint M 1  of a first edge E 1  of face  16 , and the midpoint M 2  of a second edge E 2  adjacent to first edge E 1  are connected with a segment  18 , as shown in  FIGS. 5A and 11A ;   4. Segment  18  is patterned around center C of face  16 , at an angle of rotation equal to 360/P E , to form a first domain  14   a , as shown in  FIGS. 5B and 11B ;   5. Segment  18 , along with the portions of first edge E 1  and second edge E 2  between midpoints M 1  and M 2 , define an element  22 , as shown in  FIGS. 5B and 11B ; and   6. Element  22  is patterned about the vertex V which connects edges E 1  and E 2  to create a second domain  14   b , as shown in  FIGS. 5C and 11C . The number of segments in the pattern that forms the second domain is equal to P F *P E /P V .       

     When first domain  14   a  and second domain  14   b  are tessellated to cover the surface of golf ball  10 , as shown in  FIGS. 5D and 11D , a different number of total domains  14   a  and  14   b  will result depending on the regular polyhedron chosen as the basis for control points M 1  and M 2 . The number of first and second domains  14   a  and  14   b  used to cover the surface of golf ball  10  is P F  for first domain  14   a  and P V  for second domain  14   b , as shown below in Table 5. 
     In a particular aspect of the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 11A-11X, 14A-14C, and 15A-15C , segment  18  forms a portion of a parting line of golf ball  10 . Thus, segment  18 , along with each copy thereof that is produced by steps  4  and  6  above, produce the real and two false parting lines of the ball when the domains are tessellated to cover the ball&#39;s surface. 
                     TABLE 5                  Domains Resulting From Use of Specific Polyhedra       When Using the Midpoint to Midpoint Method                                         Number       Number       Type of   Number of   of First   Number of   of Second       Polyhedron   Faces, P F     Domains 14a   Vertices, P V     Domains 14b                                         Tetrahedron   4   4   4   4       Cube   6   6   8   8       Octahedron   8   8   6   6       Dodecahedron   12   12   20   20       Icosahedron   20   20   12   12                    
The Midpoint to Vertex Method
 
     Referring to  FIGS. 6A-6D , the midpoint to vertex method yields one domain that tessellates to cover the surface of golf ball  10 . The domain is defined as follows:
         1. A regular polyhedron is chosen ( FIGS. 6A-6D  use a dodecahedron);   2. A single face  16  of the regular polyhedron is chosen, as shown in  FIG. 6A ;   3. A midpoint M 1  of edge E 1  of face  16  and a vertex V 1  on edge E 1  are connected with a segment  18 ;   4. Copies  20  of segment  18  is patterned about center C of face  16 , one for each midpoint M 2  and vertex V 2  of face  16 , to define a portion of domain  14 , as shown in  FIG. 6B ; and   5. Segment  18  and copies  20  are then each rotated 180 degrees about their respective midpoints to complete domain  14 , as shown in  FIG. 6C .       

     When domain  14  is tessellated to cover the surface of golf ball  10 , as shown in  FIG. 6D , a different number of total domains  14  will result depending on the regular polyhedron chosen as the basis for control points M 1  and V 1 . The number of domains  14  used to cover the surface of golf ball  10  is P F , as shown in Table 6. 
                     TABLE 6                  Domains Resulting From Use of Specific Polyhedra       When Using the Midpoint to Vertex Method                         Type of Polyhedron   Number of Faces, P F     Number of Domains 14                                 Tetrahedron   4   4       Cube   6   6       Octahedron   8   8       Dodecahedron   12   12       Icosahedron   20   20                    
The Vertex to Vertex Method
 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7A-7C , the vertex to vertex method yields two domains that tessellate to cover the surface of golf ball  10 . The domains are defined as follows:
         1. A regular polyhedron is chosen ( FIGS. 7A-7C  use an icosahedron);   2. A single face  16  of the regular polyhedron is chosen, as shown in  FIG. 7A ;   3. A first vertex V 1  face  16 , and a second vertex V 2  adjacent to first vertex V 1  are connected with a segment  18 ;   4. Segment  18  is patterned around center C of face  16  to form a first domain  14   a , as shown in  FIG. 7B ;   5. Segment  18 , along with edge E 1  between vertices V 1  and V 2 , defines an element  22 ; and   6. Element  22  is rotated around midpoint M 1  of edge E 1  to create a second domain  14   b.          

     When first domain  14   a  and second domain  14   b  are tessellated to cover the surface of golf ball  10 , as shown in  FIG. 7C , a different number of total domains  14   a  and  14   b  will result depending on the regular polyhedron chosen as the basis for control points V 1  and V 2 . The number of first and second domains  14   a  and  14   b  used to cover the surface of golf ball  10  is P F  for first domain  14   a  and P F *P E /2 for second domain  14   b , as shown below in Table 7. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 7 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Domains Resulting From Use of Specific Polyhedra 
               
               
                 When Using the Vertex to Vertex Method 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                   
                 Number 
                 Number 
                 Number 
               
               
                 Type of 
                 Number of 
                 of First 
                 of Edges 
                 of Second 
               
               
                 Polyhedron 
                 Faces, P F   
                 Domains 14a 
                 per Face, P E   
                 Domains 14b 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Tetrahedron 
                 4 
                 4 
                 3 
                 6 
               
               
                 Cube 
                 6 
                 6 
                 4 
                 12 
               
               
                 Octahedron 
                 8 
                 8 
                 3 
                 12 
               
               
                 Dodecahedron 
                 12 
                 12 
                 5 
                 30 
               
               
                 Icosahedron 
                 20 
                 20 
                 3 
                 30 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     While the six methods previously described each make use of two control points, it is possible to create irregular domains based on more than two control points. For example, three, or even more, control points may be used. The use of additional control points allows for potentially different shapes for irregular domains. An exemplary method using a midpoint M, a center C and a vertex V as three control points for creating one irregular domain is described below. 
     The Midpoint to Center to Vertex Method 
     Referring to  FIGS. 8A-8E , the midpoint to center to vertex method yields one domain that tessellates to cover the surface of golf ball  10 . The domain is defined as follows:
         1. A regular polyhedron is chosen ( FIGS. 8A-8E  use an icosahedron);   2. A single face  16  of the regular polyhedron is chosen, as shown in  FIG. 8A ;   3. A midpoint M 1  on edge E 1  of face  16 , Center C of face  16  and a vertex V 1  on edge E 1  are connected with a segment  18 , and segment  18  and the portion of edge E 1  between midpoint M 1  and vertex V 1  define a first element  22   a , as shown in  FIG. 8A ;   4. A copy  20  of segment  18  is rotated about center C, such that copy  20  connects center C with a midpoint M 2  on edge E 2  adjacent to edge E 1 , and connects center C with a vertex V 2  at the intersection of edges E 1  and E 2 , and the portion of segment  18  between midpoint M 1  and center C, the portion of copy  20  between vertex V 2  and center C, and the portion of edge E 1  between midpoint M 1  and vertex V 2  define a second element  22   b , as shown in  FIG. 8B ;   5. First element  22   a  and second element  22   b  are rotated about midpoint M 1  of edge E 1 , as seen in  FIG. 8C , to define two domains  14 , wherein a single domain  14  is bounded solely by portions of segment  18  and copy  20  and the rotation  18 ′ of segment  18 , as seen in  FIG. 8D .       

     When domain  14  is tessellated to cover the surface of golf ball  10 , as shown in  FIG. 8E , a different number of total domains  14  will result depending on the regular polyhedron chosen as the basis for control points M, C, and V. The number of domains  14  used to cover the surface of golf ball  10  is equal to the number of faces P F  of the polyhedron chosen times the number of edges P E  per face of the polyhedron, as shown below in Table 8. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 8 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Domains Resulting From Use of Specific Polyhedra 
               
               
                 When Using the Midpoint to Center to Vertex Method 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                   
                 Number of 
                 Number of 
               
               
                 Type of Polyhedron 
                 Number of Faces, P F   
                 Edges, P E   
                 Domains 14 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Tetrahedron 
                 4 
                 3 
                 12 
               
               
                 Cube 
                 6 
                 4 
                 24 
               
               
                 Octahedron 
                 8 
                 3 
                 24 
               
               
                 Dodecahedron 
                 12 
                 5 
                 60 
               
               
                 Icosahedron 
                 20 
                 3 
                 60 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     While the methods described previously provide a framework for the use of center C, vertex V, and midpoint M as the only control points, other control points are useable. For example, a control point may be any point P on an edge E of the chosen polyhedron face. When this type of control point is used, additional types of domains may be generated, though the mechanism for creating the irregular domain(s) may be different. An exemplary method, using a center C and a point P on an edge, for creating one such irregular domain is described below. 
     The Center to Edge Method 
     Referring to  FIGS. 9A-9E , the center to edge method yields one domain that tessellates to cover the surface of golf ball  10 . The domain is defined as follows:
         1. A regular polyhedron is chosen ( FIGS. 9A-9E  use an icosahedron);   2. A single face  16  of the regular polyhedron is chosen, as shown in  FIG. 9A ;   3. Center C of face  16 , and a point P 1  on edge E 1  are connected with a segment  18 ;   4. A copy  20  of segment  18  is rotated about center C, such that copy  20  connects center C with a point P 2  on edge E 2  adjacent to edge E 1 , where point P 2  is positioned identically relative to edge E 2  as point P 1  is positioned relative to edge E 1 , such that the two segments  18  and  20  and the portions of edges E 1  and E 2  between points P 1  and P 2 , respectively, and a vertex V, which connects edges E 1  and E 2 , define an element  22 , as shown best in  FIG. 9B ; and   5. Element  22  is rotated about midpoint M 1  of edge E 1  or midpoint M 2  of edge E 2 , whichever is located within element  22 , as seen in  FIGS. 9B-9C , to create a domain  14 , as seen in  FIG. 9D .       

     When domain  14  is tessellated to cover the surface of golf ball  10 , as shown in  FIG. 9E , a different number of total domains  14  will result depending on the regular polyhedron chosen as the basis for control points C and P 1 . The number of domains  14  used to cover the surface of golf ball  10  is equal to the number of faces P F  of the polyhedron chosen times the number of edges P E  per face of the polyhedron divided by 2, as shown below in Table 9. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 9 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Domains Resulting From Use of Specific Polyhedra When Using the 
               
               
                 Center to Edge Method 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Type of 
                 Number 
                 Number 
                   
               
               
                 Polyhedron 
                 of Faces, P F   
                 of Edges, P E   
                 Number of Domains 14 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Tetrahedron 
                 4 
                 3 
                 6 
               
               
                 Cube 
                 6 
                 4 
                 12 
               
               
                 Octahedron 
                 8 
                 3 
                 12 
               
               
                 Dodecahedron 
                 12 
                 5 
                 30 
               
               
                 Icosahedron 
                 20 
                 3 
                 30 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Though each of the above described methods has been explained with reference to regular polyhedrons, they may also be used with certain non-regular polyhedrons, such as Archimedean Solids, Catalan Solids, or others. The methods used to derive the irregular domains will generally require some modification in order to account for the non-regular face shapes of the non-regular solids. An exemplary method for use with a Catalan Solid, specifically a rhombic dodecahedron, is described below. 
     A Vertex to Vertex Method for a Rhombic Dodecahedron 
     Referring to  FIGS. 10A-10E , a vertex to vertex method based on a rhombic dodecahedron yields one domain that tessellates to cover the surface of golf ball  10 . The domain is defined as follows:
         1. A single face  16  of the rhombic dodecahedron is chosen, as shown in  FIG. 10A ;   2. A first vertex V 1  face  16 , and a second vertex V 2  adjacent to first vertex V 1  are connected with a segment  18 , as shown in  FIG. 10B ;   3. A first copy  20  of segment  18  is rotated about vertex V 2 , such that it connects vertex V 2  to vertex V 3  of face  16 , a second copy  24  of segment  18  is rotated about center C, such that it connects vertex V 3  and vertex V 4  of face  16 , and a third copy  26  of segment  18  is rotated about vertex V 1  such that it connects vertex V 1  to vertex V 4 , all as shown in  FIG. 10C , to form a domain  14 , as shown in  FIG. 10D ;       

     When domain  14  is tessellated to cover the surface of golf ball  10 , as shown in  FIG. 10E , twelve domains will be used to cover the surface of golf ball  10 , one for each face of the rhombic dodecahedron. 
     After the irregular domain(s) are created using any of the above methods, the domain(s) may be packed with dimples in order to be usable in creating golf ball  10 . 
     In  FIGS. 11E-11X, 14A-14C, and 15A-15C , a first domain and a second domain are created using the midpoint to midpoint method based on a tetrahedron.  FIG. 11E  shows a first domain  14   a  and a portion of a second domain  14   b  packed with dimples, with the dimples of the first domain  14   a  designated by the letter a.  FIG. 11F  shows a second domain  14   b  and a portion of a first domain  14   a  packed with dimples, with the dimples of the second domain  14   b  designated by the letter b.  FIG. 11G  shows a first domain  14   a  and a second domain  14   b  packed with dimples and tessellated to cover the surface of golf ball  10 . 
       FIG. 11H  shows a first domain  14   a  packed with dimples and a portion of a second domain  14   b  packed with dimples, but the dimples are packed within the domains in different patterns than those shown in  FIG. 11E . In  FIG. 11H , the first domain  14   a  is designated by shading.  FIG. 11I  shows the second domain  14   b  and a portion of the first domain  14   a  with the dimples packed within the domains in the same pattern as that shown in  FIG. 11H . In  FIG. 11I , the second domain  14   b  is designated by shading.  FIG. 11J  shows the first and second domains packed with dimples according to the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 11H and 11I  tessellated to cover the surface of golf ball  10 . 
       FIG. 11K  shows a first domain  14   a  packed with dimples and a portion of a second domain  14   b .  FIG. 11L  shows the second domain  14   b  packed with dimples and a portion of the first domain  14   a .  FIG. 11M  shows the first and second domains packed with dimples according to the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 11K and 11L . 
       FIG. 11N  shows a first domain  14   a  packed with dimples and a portion of a second domain  14   b .  FIG. 11O  shows the second domain  14   b  packed with dimples and a portion of the first domain  14   a .  FIG. 11P  shows the first and second domains packed with dimples according to the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 11N and 11O . 
       FIG. 11S  shows a first domain  14   a  packed with perimeter dimples and a portion of a second domain  14   b  packed with perimeter dimples.  FIG. 11T  shows the second domain  14   b  packed with perimeter dimples and a portion of the first domain  14   a  packed with perimeter dimples.  FIG. 11U  shows the first and second domains packed with perimeter dimples according to the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 11S and 11T . 
       FIG. 11V  shows a first domain  14   a  packed with perimeter dimples and a portion of a second domain  14   b  packed with perimeter dimples.  FIG. 11W  shows the second domain  14   b  packed with perimeter dimples and a portion of the first domain  14   a  packed with perimeter dimples.  FIG. 11X  shows the first and second domains packed with perimeter dimples according to the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 11V and 11W . 
       FIG. 14A  shows a first domain  14   a  packed with dimples and a portion of a second domain  14   b .  FIG. 14B  shows the second domain  14   b  packed with dimples and a portion of the first domain  14   a .  FIG. 14C  shows the first and second domains packed with dimples according to the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 14A and 14B . 
       FIG. 15A  shows a first domain  14   a  packed with dimples and a portion of a second domain  14   b .  FIG. 15B  shows the second domain  14   b  packed with dimples and a portion of the first domain  14   a .  FIG. 15C  shows the first and second domains packed with dimples according to the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 15A and 15B . 
     In a particular embodiment, as illustrated in  FIGS. 11E-11P, 11R-11X, 14A-14C, and 15A-15C , the dimple pattern of the first domain has three-way rotational symmetry about the central point of the first domain, and the dimple pattern of the second domain has three-way rotational symmetry about the central point of the second domain. 
     In one embodiment, there are no limitations on how the dimples are packed. In another embodiment, the dimples are packed such that no dimple intersects a line segment. In the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 11E-11P, 11R-11X, 14A-14C, and 15A-15C , the dimples are packed within the first domain in a different pattern from that of the second domain. 
     In a particular embodiment, the dimples are packed such that all nearest neighbor dimples are separated by substantially the same distance, δ, wherein the average of all δ values is from 0.002 inches to 0.020 inches, and wherein any individual δ value can vary from the mean by ±0.005 inches. For purposes of the present invention, nearest neighbor dimples are determined according to the following method. Two tangency lines are drawn from the center of a first dimple to a potential nearest neighbor dimple. A line segment is then drawn connecting the center of the first dimple to the center of the potential nearest neighbor dimple. If the two tangency lines and the line segment do not intersect any other dimple edges, then those dimples are considered to be nearest neighbors. For example, as shown in  FIG. 12A , two tangency lines  3 A and  3 B are drawn from the center of a first dimple  1  to a potential nearest neighbor dimple  2 . Line segment  4  is then drawn connecting the center of first dimple  1  to the center of potential nearest neighbor dimple  2 . Tangency lines  3 A and  3 B and line segment  4  do not intersect any other dimple edges, so dimple  1  and dimple  2  are considered nearest neighbors. In  FIG. 12B , two tangency lines  3 A and  3 B are drawn from the center of a first dimple  1  to a potential nearest neighbor dimple  2 . Line segment  4  is then drawn connecting the center of first dimple  1  to the center of potential nearest neighbor dimple  2 . Tangency lines  3 A and  3 B intersect an alternative dimple, so dimple  1  and dimple  2  are not considered nearest neighbors. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the line segments do not actually have to be drawn on the golf ball. Rather, a computer modeling program capable of performing this operation automatically is preferably used. 
     Each dimple typically has a diameter of 0.050 or 0.100 or 0.150 or 0.180 or 0.200 or 0.250 or 0.300 or 0.350 inches, or a diameter within a range having a lower limit and an upper limit selected from these values. The diameter of a dimple having a non-circular plan shape is defined by its equivalent diameter, d e , which calculated as: 
               d   e     =     2   ⁢       A   π               
where A is the plan shape area of the dimple. Diameter measurements are determined on finished golf balls according to  FIG. 13 . Generally, it may be difficult to measure a dimple&#39;s diameter due to the indistinct nature of the boundary dividing the dimple from the ball&#39;s undisturbed land surface. Due to the effect of paint and/or the dimple design itself, the junction between the land surface and dimple may not be a sharp corner and is therefore indistinct. This can make the measurement of a dimple&#39;s diameter somewhat ambiguous. To resolve this problem, dimple diameter on a finished golf ball is measured according to the method shown in  FIG. 13 .  FIG. 13  shows a dimple half-profile  34 , extending from the dimple centerline  31  to the land surface outside of the dimple  33 . A ball phantom surface  32  is constructed above the dimple as a continuation of the land surface  33 . A first tangent line T 1  is then constructed at a point on the dimple sidewall that is spaced 0.003 inches radially inward from the phantom surface  32 . T 1  intersects phantom surface  32  at a point P 1 , which defines a nominal dimple edge position. A second tangent line T 2  is then constructed, tangent to the phantom surface  32 , at P 1 . The edge angle is the angle between T 1  and T 2 . The dimple diameter is the distance between P 1  and its equivalent point diametrically opposite along the dimple perimeter. Alternatively, it is twice the distance between P 1  and the dimple centerline  31 , measured in a direction perpendicular to centerline  31 . The dimple depth is the distance measured along a ball radius from the phantom surface of the ball to the deepest point on the dimple. The dimple volume is the space enclosed between the phantom surface  32  and the dimple surface  34  (extended along T 1  until it intersects the phantom surface).
 
     In a particular embodiment, all of the dimples on the outer surface of the ball have the same diameter. It should be understood that “same diameter” dimples includes dimples on a finished ball having respective diameters that differ by less than 0.005 inches due to manufacturing variances. 
     In another particular embodiment, there are two or more different dimple diameters on the outer surface of the ball, including a maximum dimple diameter and a minimum dimple diameter. In a particular aspect of this embodiment, the dimples are arranged in multiple copies of a first domain and a second domain formed according to the midpoint to midpoint method based on a tetrahedron wherein the first domain and the second domain are tessellated to cover the outer surface of the golf ball in a uniform pattern having no great circles. The overall dimple pattern consists of four first domains and four second domains. The dimple pattern within the first domain is different from the dimple pattern within the second domain. Each of the first domain and the second domain consist of perimeter dimples and interior dimples. 
     In a first further particular aspect of this embodiment, the perimeter dimples of the first domain consist of dimples having no more than two different diameters, the perimeter dimples of the second domain consist of dimples having at least two different diameters, and the diameter of at least one perimeter dimple is the maximum dimple diameter. The dimples optionally have one or more of the following additional characteristics:
         a) the diameter of at least one perimeter dimple of the first domain is the maximum dimple diameter;   b) the diameter of at least one perimeter dimples of the second domain is the maximum dimple diameter;   c) the diameter of at least one interior dimple is the maximum dimple diameter;   d) the diameter of at least one interior dimple of the first domain is the maximum dimple diameter;   e) the diameter of at least one interior dimple of the second domain is the maximum dimple diameter;   the diameter of at least one dimple in the first domain is the minimum dimple diameter;   g) none of the perimeter dimples of the first domain have a diameter that is the minimum dimple diameter;   h) the diameter of at least one of the perimeter dimples of the first domain is the minimum dimple diameter;   i) none of the interior dimples of the first domain have a diameter that is the minimum dimple diameter;   j) the diameter of at least one of the interior dimples of the first domain is the minimum dimple diameter;   k) the diameter of at least one dimple in the second domain is the minimum dimple diameter;   l) none of the perimeter dimples of the second domain have a diameter that is the minimum dimple diameter;   m) the diameter of at least one perimeter dimple of the second domain is the minimum dimple diameter;   n) none of the interior dimples of the second domain have a diameter that is the minimum dimple diameter;   o) the diameter of at least one interior dimple of the second domain is the minimum dimple diameter;   p) there are 3 or more different dimple diameters on the outer surface of the ball;   q) there are 4 or more different dimple diameters on the outer surface of the ball;   r) there are 5 or more different dimple diameters on the outer surface of the ball;   s) the perimeter dimples of the second domain consist of dimples having at least three different diameters;   t) the interior dimples of the first domain consist of dimples having at least three different diameters;   u) the interior dimples of the second domain consist of dimples having no more than two different diameters;   v) the interior dimples of the second domain consist of dimples having at least three different diameters; and   w) the number of different dimple diameters, D, on the outer surface is related to the total number of dimples, N, on the outer surface according to one of the particular embodiments further disclosed below.       

     In a second further particular aspect of this embodiment, the interior dimples of the first domain consist of dimples having at least three different diameters, the interior dimples of the second domain consist of dimples having no more than two different diameters, and the diameter of at least one dimple in the first domain is the minimum dimple diameter and the diameter of at least one dimple in the second domain is the minimum dimple diameter. The dimples optionally have one or more of the following additional characteristics:
         a) there are 4 or more different dimple diameters on the outer surface of the ball;   b) there are 5 or more different dimple diameters on the outer surface of the ball;   c) none of the perimeter dimples of the first domain have a diameter that is the minimum dimple diameter;   d) the diameter of at least one of the perimeter dimples of the first domain is the minimum dimple diameter;   e) none of the interior dimples of the first domain have a diameter that is the minimum dimple diameter;   f) the diameter of at least one of the interior dimples of the first domain is the minimum dimple diameter;   g) none of the perimeter dimples of the second domain have a diameter that is the minimum dimple diameter;   h) the diameter of at least one perimeter dimple of the second domain is the minimum dimple diameter;   i) none of the interior dimples of the second domain have a diameter that is the minimum dimple diameter;   j) the diameter of at least one interior dimple of the second domain is the minimum dimple diameter;   k) the diameter of at least one interior dimple is the maximum dimple diameter;   l) the diameter of at least one interior dimple of the first domain is the maximum dimple diameter;   m) the diameter of at least one interior dimple of the second domain is the maximum dimple diameter; and   n) the perimeter dimples of the second domain consist of dimples having at least three different diameters.       

     In a third further particular aspect of this embodiment, none of the perimeter dimples of the first domain have a diameter that is the maximum or the minimum dimple diameter, the diameter of at least one of the perimeter dimples of the second domain is the maximum dimple diameter, and the diameter of at least one of the perimeter dimples of the second domain is the minimum dimple diameter. 
     In a fourth further particular aspect of this embodiment, the perimeter dimples within each domain have a particular diameter relationship as follows. As stated above, in the present embodiment, the domains are generated using the midpoint to midpoint method based on a tetrahedron. Thus, as illustrated, for example, in  FIGS. 11A-11D , each first domain  14   a  and second domain  14   b  is defined by three irregular segments, i.e., an irregular segment  18  and two copies thereof. The three irregular segments of a given domain are connected at their endpoints which correspond to the midpoints of the edges of the faces of the base tetrahedron used to generate the domains, for example, M 1  and M 2  in  FIGS. 11A-11C . The perimeter dimples of a given domain are positioned adjacent to the three irregular segments defining that domain. Each perimeter dimple is positioned adjacent to a single irregular segment, except in the case where a domain has one perimeter dimple located at each of its vertices, in which case the perimeter dimple located at each vertex is adjacent to two irregular segments. Domains having a single perimeter dimple located at the vertices of the domain are illustrated, for example, as domain  14   a  of  FIGS. 11E, 11H, 11K, 11N, 11R, 11S and 11V , and domain  14   b  of  FIG. 11O . 
     For each one of the three irregular segments defining a domain, a reference line is drawn connecting the endpoints of the irregular segment in the plane that is normal to the axis of symmetry of that domain. For example,  FIG. 11Q  shows a first domain  14   a  defined by three irregular segments, a portion of a second domain  14   b  defined by three irregular segments, and one of the three reference lines that can be drawn connecting two endpoints of the irregular segments.  FIG. 11R  shows the perimeter dimples of the first domain  14   a , the perimeter dimples of a portion of the second domain  14   b , and the reference line shown in  FIG. 11Q . In  FIG. 11R , all of the perimeter dimples positioned adjacent to a common irregular segment of the first domain  14   a  are intersected by the reference line connecting the endpoints of the common irregular segment; however, in some embodiments, a portion of the perimeter dimples positioned adjacent to a common irregular segment of a given domain are not intersected by the reference line connecting the endpoints of the common irregular segment. 
     In this particular embodiment, all of the perimeter dimples within a domain that are positioned adjacent to a common irregular segment have a diameter relationship wherein their respective diameters get progressively smaller (or, alternatively, progressively larger) as the distance gets larger from each dimple&#39;s centroid to the midpoint of the reference line connecting the endpoints of the common irregular segment. 
     For example,  FIGS. 11S-11U , discussed further below, illustrate an embodiment wherein all of the perimeter dimples within a given domain that are positioned adjacent to a common irregular segment defining that domain have a diameter relationship wherein their respective diameters get progressively smaller as the distance from each dimple&#39;s centroid to the midpoint of the reference line connecting the endpoints of the common irregular segment gets larger. In other words, all of the perimeter dimples within a given domain have a diameter relationship wherein
 
if  x   dimple 1   &gt;x   dimple 2 , then  d   dimple 1   &lt;d   dimple 2 ,
 
where dimple  1  and dimple  2  are any two perimeter dimples of the given domain positioned adjacent to a common irregular segment defining the given domain, d is the dimple diameter, and x is the distance from the center of the dimple to the midpoint of a reference line connecting the endpoints of the common irregular segment.
 
     Alternatively,  FIGS. 11V-11X , discussed further below, illustrate an embodiment wherein all of the perimeter dimples within a given domain that are positioned adjacent to a common irregular segment defining that domain have a diameter relationship wherein their respective diameters get progressively larger as the distance from each dimple&#39;s centroid to the midpoint of the reference line connecting the endpoints of the common irregular segment gets larger. In other words, all of the perimeter dimples within a given domain have a diameter relationship wherein
 
if  x   dimple 1   &gt;x   dimple 2 , then  d   dimple 1   &gt;d   dimple 2 ,
 
where dimple  1  and dimple  2  are any two perimeter dimples of the given domain positioned adjacent to a common irregular segment defining the given domain, d is the dimple diameter, and x is the distance from the center of the dimple to the midpoint of a reference line connecting the endpoints of the common irregular segment.
 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 11S-11U , only the perimeter dimples are shown. The interior dimples are positioned within each domain in any suitable pattern that has three-way rotational symmetry about the central point of the domain. The alphabetic labels within the dimples designate same diameter dimples. For example, all dimples labelled A have the same diameter, all dimples labelled B have the same diameter, and so on. In a particular aspect of the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 11S-11U , the dimples labelled A have a diameter of about 0.130 inches, the dimples labelled B have a diameter of about 0.150 inches, the dimples labelled C have a diameter of about 0.165 inches, and the dimples labelled D have a diameter of about 0.175 inches. 
     In  FIG. 11S , for the perimeter dimples positioned adjacent to a common irregular segment defining the first domain  14   a , the dimples labelled D have the largest diameter and are positioned closest to the midpoint of the reference line connecting the endpoints of the common irregular segment; the dimples labelled C have a smaller diameter than the dimples labelled D and are positioned second closest to the midpoint of the reference line; the dimples labelled B have a smaller diameter than the dimple labelled C and are positioned third closest to the midpoint of the reference line; and the dimples labelled A have the smallest diameter and are positioned furthest from the midpoint of the reference line. Thus, all of the perimeter dimples of the first domain have a diameter relationship wherein
 
if  x   dimple 1   &gt;x   dimple 2  
 
then  d   dimple 1   &lt;d   dimple 2 ,
 
where dimple  1  and dimple  2  are any two perimeter dimples of the first domain positioned adjacent to a common irregular segment, d is the dimple diameter, and x is the distance from the center of the dimple to the midpoint of a reference line connecting the endpoints of the common irregular segment.
 
     In  FIG. 11T , for the perimeter dimples positioned adjacent to a common irregular segment defining the second domain  14   b , the dimple labelled D has the largest diameter and is positioned closest to the midpoint of the reference line connecting the endpoints of the common irregular segment; the dimples labelled C have a smaller diameter than the dimple labelled D and are positioned second closest to the midpoint of the reference line; the dimples labelled B have a smaller diameter than the dimple labelled C and are positioned third closest to the midpoint of the reference line; and the dimples labelled A have the smallest diameter and are positioned furthest from the midpoint of the reference line. Thus, all of the perimeter dimples of the second domain have a diameter relationship wherein
 
if  x   dimple 3   &gt;x   dimple 4  
 
then  d   dimple 3   &lt;d   dimple 4 ,
 
where dimple  3  and dimple  4  are any two perimeter dimples of the second domain positioned adjacent to a common irregular segment, d is the dimple diameter, and x is the distance from the center of the dimple to the midpoint of a reference line connecting the endpoints of the common irregular segment.
 
     The embodiment shown in  FIGS. 11S-11U  additionally has the following characteristics:
         a) the total number of perimeter dimples of the first domain, i.e., 21, is equal to the total number of perimeter dimples of the second domain, i.e. 21;   b) the number of first domain perimeter dimples adjacent to a common irregular segment defining the first domain, i.e., 8, is not equal to the number of second domain perimeter dimples adjacent to a common irregular segment defining the second domain, i.e., 7; and   c) each perimeter dimple of the first domain has substantially the same diameter as at least one of its nearest neighbor dimples located in the second domain.       

     Referring now to  FIGS. 11V-11X , only the perimeter dimples are shown. The interior dimples are positioned within each domain in any suitable pattern that has three-way rotational symmetry about the central point of the domain. The alphabetic labels within the dimples designate same diameter dimples. For example, all dimples labelled A have the same diameter, all dimples labelled B have the same diameter, and so on. In a particular aspect of the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 11V-11X , the dimples labelled A have a diameter of about 0.140 inches, the dimples labelled B have a diameter of about 0.150 inches, the dimples labelled C have a diameter of about 0.155 inches, the dimples labelled D have a diameter of about 0.160 inches, the dimples labelled E have a diameter of about 0.165 inches, the dimples labelled F have a diameter of about 0.170 inches, and the dimples labelled G have a diameter of about 0.180 inches. 
     In  FIG. 11V , for the perimeter dimples positioned adjacent to a common irregular segment defining the first domain  14   a , the dimples labelled B have the smallest diameter and are positioned closest to the midpoint of the reference line connecting the endpoints of the common irregular segment; the dimples labelled D have a larger diameter than the dimples labelled B and are positioned second closest to the midpoint of the reference line; the dimples labelled F have a larger diameter than the dimples labelled D and are positioned third closest to the midpoint of the reference line; and the dimples labelled G have the largest diameter and are positioned furthest from the midpoint of the reference line. Thus, all of the perimeter dimples of the first domain have a diameter relationship wherein
 
if  x   dimple 1   &gt;x   dimple 2  
 
then  d   dimple 1   &gt;d   dimple 2 ,
 
where dimple  1  and dimple  2  are any two perimeter dimples of the first domain positioned adjacent to a common irregular segment, d is the dimple diameter, and x is the distance from the center of the dimple to the midpoint of a reference line connecting the endpoints of the common irregular segment.
 
     In  FIG. 11W , for the perimeter dimples positioned adjacent to a common irregular segment defining the second domain  14   b , the dimple labelled A has the smallest diameter and is positioned closest to the midpoint of the reference line connecting the endpoints of the common irregular segment; the dimples labelled B have a larger diameter than the dimple labelled A and are positioned second closest to the midpoint of the reference line; the dimples labelled C have a larger diameter than the dimples labelled B and are positioned third closest to the midpoint of the reference line; and the dimples labelled E have the largest diameter and are positioned furthest from the midpoint of the reference line. Thus, all of the perimeter dimples of the second domain have a diameter relationship wherein
 
if  x   dimple 3   &gt;x   dimple 4  
 
then  d   dimple 3   &gt;d   dimple 4 ,
 
where dimple  3  and dimple  4  are any two perimeter dimples of the second domain positioned adjacent to a common irregular segment, d is the dimple diameter, and x is the distance from the center of the dimple to the midpoint of a reference line connecting the endpoints of the common irregular segment.
 
     The embodiment shown in  FIGS. 11V-11X  additionally has the following characteristics:
         a) the total number of perimeter dimples of the first domain, i.e., 21, is equal to the total number of perimeter dimples of the second domain, i.e. 21;   b) the number of first domain perimeter dimples adjacent to a common irregular segment defining the first domain, i.e., 8, is not equal to the number of second domain perimeter dimples adjacent to a common irregular segment defining the second domain, i.e., 7; and   c) at least one perimeter dimple of the first domain has substantially the same diameter as at least one of its nearest neighbor dimples located in the second domain, i.e., the dimples labelled B.       

     While  FIGS. 11S-11X  illustrate embodiments wherein the perimeter dimples of both domains have the same diameter relationship (i.e., in both domains the diameters get progressively smaller going from the midpoint to each endpoint of the reference line, or in both domains the diameters get progressively larger going from the midpoint to each endpoint of the reference line), the present invention includes embodiments wherein the perimeter dimples of only one of the two domains have a diameter relationship wherein the diameters get progressively smaller or larger going from the midpoint to each endpoint of the reference line. The present invention also includes embodiments wherein the perimeter dimples of one domain have a diameter relationship wherein the diameters get progressively smaller and the perimeter dimples of the other domain have a diameter relationship wherein the diameters get progressively larger, going from the midpoint to each endpoint of the reference line. 
     In a further aspect of this particular embodiment, the dimples additionally have one or more of the following additional characteristics:
         a) the total number of perimeter dimples of the first domain is not equal to the total number of perimeter dimples of the second domain;   b) the total number of perimeter dimples of the first domain is equal to the total number of perimeter dimples of the second domain;   c) at least one perimeter dimple of the first domain has substantially the same diameter as at least one of its nearest neighbor dimples located in the second domain;   d) each perimeter dimple of the first domain has substantially the same diameter as at least one of its nearest neighbor dimples located in the second domain;   e) none of the perimeter dimples of the first domain has substantially the same diameter as at least one of its nearest neighbor dimples located in the second domain;   f) the number of first domain perimeter dimples adjacent to a common irregular segment defining the first domain is not equal to the number of second domain perimeter dimples adjacent to a common irregular segment defining the second domain; and   g) the number of first domain perimeter dimples adjacent to a common irregular segment defining the first domain is equal to the number of second domain perimeter dimples adjacent to a common irregular segment defining the second domain.       

     For purposes of the present disclosure, each dimple on the outer surface of the golf ball is either a perimeter dimple or an interior dimple and is positioned entirely within either a first domain or a second domain. Perimeter dimples are those dimples located directly adjacent to a border segment. Interior dimples are those dimples not located directly adjacent to a border segment. Nearest neighbor dimples can also be used to determine whether a given dimple is a perimeter dimple or an interior dimple. If at least one of a particular dimple&#39;s nearest neighbor dimples is located in a different domain as that particular dimple, then that particular dimple is a perimeter dimple. If all of a particular dimple&#39;s nearest neighbor dimples are located in the same domain as that particular dimple, then that particular dimple is an interior dimple. 
     The perimeter dimples of a given domain are those located inside of that domain, and, in a particular embodiment, form an axially symmetric pattern about the geometric center of the domain. The interior dimples of a given domain are those located within the domain, and, in a particular embodiment, form an axially symmetric pattern about the geometric center of the domain. 
     For example, in the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 11K, 11N, 14A, and 15A , the shaded dimples represent the perimeter dimples of the first domain  14   a , and the unshaded dimples represent the interior dimples of the first domain  14   a . In the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 11L, 11O, 14B, and 15B , the shaded dimples represent the perimeter dimples of the second domain  14   b , and the unshaded dimples represent the interior dimples of the second domain  14   b . Thus, in  FIGS. 11M, 11P, 14C, and 15C , which show the first domain  14   a  and the second domain  14   b  packed with dimples according to the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 11K-11L, 11N-11O, 14A-14B, and 15A-15B , respectively, the shaded dimples represent the perimeter dimples and the unshaded dimples represent the interior dimples. 
     In  FIGS. 11K-11M , the alphabetic labels within the dimples designate same diameter dimples. For example, all dimples labelled A have the same diameter, all dimples labelled B have the same diameter, and so on. In a particular aspect of the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 11K-11M , the dimples labelled A have a diameter of about 0.130 inches, the dimples labelled B have a diameter of about 0.160 inches, the dimples labelled C have a diameter of about 0.170 inches, and the dimples labelled D have a diameter of about 0.175 inches. Thus, according to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 11M , when the first domain  14   a  and the second domain  14   b  are tessellated about the outer surface of the golf ball, the resulting overall dimple pattern has a total of 352 dimples, having four different dimple diameters, including a maximum dimple diameter of 0.175 inches and a minimum dimple diameter of 0.130 inches. The embodiment shown in  FIGS. 11K-11M  additionally has the following characteristics:
         a) the perimeter dimples of the first domain consist of dimples having two different diameters;   b) none of the perimeter dimples of the first domain have a diameter that is the maximum dimple diameter;   c) none of the perimeter dimples of the first domain have a diameter that is the minimum dimple diameter;   d) the perimeter dimples of the second domain consist of dimples having three different diameters;   e) the diameter of at least one perimeter dimple of the second domain is the maximum dimple diameter;   f) the diameter of at least one perimeter dimple of the second domain is the minimum dimple diameter;   g) the interior dimples of the first domain consist of dimples having three different diameters;   h) the diameter of at least one interior dimple of the first domain is the maximum dimple diameter;   i) the diameter of at least one of the interior dimples of the first domain is the minimum dimple diameter;   j) the interior dimples of the second domain consist of dimples having two different diameters;   k) the diameter of at least one interior dimple of the second domain is the maximum dimple diameter; and   l) none of the interior dimples of the second domain have a diameter that is the minimum dimple diameter.       

     In  FIGS. 11N-11P , the alphabetic labels within the dimples designate same diameter dimples. For example, all dimples labelled A have the same diameter, all dimples labelled B have the same diameter, and so on. In a particular aspect of the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 11N-11P , the dimples labelled A have a diameter of about 0.125 inches, the dimples labelled B have a diameter of about 0.148 inches, the dimples labelled C have a diameter of about 0.166 inches, the dimples labelled D have a diameter of about 0.176 inches, and the dimples labelled E have a diameter of about 0.198 inches. Thus, according to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 11P , when the first domain  14   a  and the second domain  14   b  are tessellated about the outer surface of the golf ball, the resulting overall dimple pattern has a total of 328 dimples, having five different dimple diameters, including a maximum dimple diameter of 0.198 inches and a minimum dimple diameter of 0.125 inches. The embodiment shown in  FIGS. 11N-11P  additionally has the following characteristics:
         a) the perimeter dimples of the first domain consist of dimples having two different diameters;   b) the diameter of at least one perimeter dimple of the first domain is the maximum dimple diameter;   c) none of the perimeter dimples of the first domain have a diameter that is the minimum dimple diameter;   d) the perimeter dimples of the second domain consist of dimples having three different diameters;   e) none of the perimeter dimples of the second domain have a diameter that is the maximum dimple diameter;   f) the diameter of at least one perimeter dimple of the second domain is the minimum dimple diameter;   g) the interior dimples of the first domain consist of dimples having three different diameters;   h) none of the interior dimples of the first domain have a diameter that is the maximum dimple diameter;   i) the diameter of at least one of the interior dimples of the first domain is the minimum dimple diameter;   j) the interior dimples of the second domain consist of dimples having four different diameters;   k) the diameter of at least one interior dimple of the second domain is the maximum dimple diameter; and   l) the diameter of at least one interior dimple of the second domain is the minimum dimple diameter.       

     In  FIGS. 14A-14C , the alphabetic labels within the dimples designate same diameter dimples. For example, all dimples labelled A have the same diameter, all dimples labelled B have the same diameter, and so on. In a particular aspect of the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 14A-14C , the dimples labelled A have a diameter of about 0.180 inches, the dimples labelled B have a diameter of about 0.200 inches, the dimples labelled C have a diameter of about 0.250 inches, the dimples labelled D have a diameter of about 0.280 inches, and the dimples labelled E have a diameter of about 0.300 inches. Thus, according to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 14C , when the first domain  14   a  and the second domain  14   b  are tessellated about the outer surface of the golf ball, the resulting overall dimple pattern has a total of 148 dimples, having five different dimple diameters, including a maximum dimple diameter of 0.300 inches and a minimum dimple diameter of 0.180 inches. The embodiment shown in  FIGS. 14A-14C  additionally has the following characteristics:
         a) none of the perimeter dimples of the first domain has the same dimple diameter as a perimeter dimple of the second domain;   b) none of the interior dimples of the first domain has the same dimple diameter as an interior dimple of the second domain;   c) at least one of the interior dimples of the first domain has the same dimple diameter as a perimeter dimple of the second domain;   d) at least one of the interior dimples of the second domain has the same dimple diameter as a perimeter dimple of the first domain;   e) the plurality of dimples comprises dimples having at least two different diameters including a maximum dimple diameter and a minimum dimple diameter, and none of the dimples located within the second domain has the maximum dimple diameter;   f) the plurality of dimples comprises dimples having at least two different diameters including a maximum dimple diameter and a minimum dimple diameter, and none of the dimples located within the second domain has the minimum dimple diameter;   g) the plurality of dimples comprises dimples having at least two different diameters including a maximum dimple diameter and a minimum dimple diameter, none of the dimples located within the second domain has the maximum dimple diameter, and wherein none of the dimples located within the second domain has the minimum dimple diameter;   h) the combined total number of perimeter dimples of the first domain and perimeter dimples of the second domain is greater than the combined total number of interior dimples of the first domain and interior dimples of the second domain;   i) the combined total number of perimeter dimples of the first domain and perimeter dimples of the second domain is less than 25:   j) the total number of dimples located within the first domain is less than 20; and   k) the total number of dimples located within the second domain is less than 20.       

     In  FIGS. 15A-15C , the alphabetic labels within the dimples designate same diameter dimples. For example, all dimples labelled A have the same diameter, all dimples labelled B have the same diameter, and so on. In a particular aspect of the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 15A-15C , the dimples labelled A have a diameter of about 0.128 inches, the dimples labelled B have a diameter of about 0.148 inches, the dimples labelled C have a diameter of about 0.158 inches, the dimples labelled D have a diameter of about 0.168 inches, and the dimples labelled E have a diameter of about 0.173 inches. Thus, according to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 15C , when the first domain  14   a  and the second domain  14   b  are tessellated about the outer surface of the golf ball, the resulting overall dimple pattern has a total of 376 dimples, having five different dimple diameters, including a maximum dimple diameter of 0.173 inches and a minimum dimple diameter of 0.128 inches. The embodiment shown in  FIGS. 15A-15C  additionally has the following characteristics:
         a) the perimeter dimples of the first domain include dimples having three different diameters;   b) the interior dimples of the first domain include dimples having four different diameters;   c) the perimeter dimples of the second domain include dimples having four different diameters;   d) the interior dimples of the second domain include dimples having four different diameters;   e) each of the perimeter dimples of the second domain has the same diameter as at least one interior dimple of the second domain;   f) each of the interior dimples of the second domain has the same diameter as at least one perimeter dimple of the second domain;   g) at least one of the perimeter dimples of the first domain has a diameter that is not the same as any interior dimple of the first domain;   h) at least one of the interior dimples of the first domain has a diameter that is not the same as any perimeter dimple of the first domain;   i) the plurality of dimples comprises dimples having at least four different diameters including a maximum diameter, a minimum diameter, a first additional diameter, and a second additional diameter; and at least one of the dimples located within the second domain has the maximum diameter;   j) the plurality of dimples comprises dimples having at least four different diameters including a maximum diameter, a minimum diameter, a first additional diameter, and a second additional diameter; and none of the dimples located within the second domain has the minimum diameter;   k) the plurality of dimples comprises dimples having at least four different diameters including a maximum diameter, a minimum diameter, a first additional diameter, and a second additional diameter; and at least one of the dimples located within the first domain has the maximum diameter;   l) the plurality of dimples comprises dimples having at least four different diameters including a maximum diameter, a minimum diameter, a first additional diameter, and a second additional diameter; and at least one of the dimples located within the first domain has the minimum diameter;   m) the plurality of dimples comprises dimples having at least four different diameters including a maximum diameter, a minimum diameter, a first additional diameter, and a second additional diameter; at least one of the perimeter dimples of the first domain has the minimum diameter, and at least one of the interior dimples of the first domain has the minimum diameter;   n) the plurality of dimples comprises dimples having at least four different diameters including a maximum diameter, a minimum diameter, a first additional diameter, and a second additional diameter; and at least one of the interior dimples of the first domain has the maximum diameter;   o) the plurality of dimples comprises dimples having at least four different diameters including a maximum diameter, a minimum diameter, a first additional diameter, and a second additional diameter; and none of the perimeter dimples of the first domain has the maximum diameter;   p) the plurality of dimples comprises dimples having five different diameters;   q) the maximum diameter is from 0.155 inches to 0.180 inches; and   r) the minimum diameter is from 0.110 inches to 0.135 inches.       

     In a particular aspect of the embodiments disclosed herein wherein there are two or more different dimple diameters on the outer surface of the ball, the number of different dimple diameters, D, on the outer surface is related to the total number of dimples, N, on the outer surface, such that if:
 
 N&lt; 312, then  D≤ 5;
 
 N= 312, then  D≤ 4;
 
312&lt; N&lt; 328, then  D≤ 5;
 
 N= 328, then  D≤ 6;
 
328&lt; N&lt; 352, then  D≤ 5;
 
 N= 352, then  D≤ 4;
 
352&lt; N&lt; 376, then  D≤ 5;
 
 N= 376, then  D≤ 7; and
 
 N&gt; 376, then  D≤ 5.
 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 11J , the total number of dimples on the outer surface of the ball is 300, and the number of different dimple diameters is 4. In  FIGS. 11H and 11I , the label numbers within the dimples designate same diameter dimples. For example, all dimples labelled  1  have the same diameter, all dimples labelled  2  have the same diameter, and so on. In a particular aspect of the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 11H and 11I , the dimples labelled  1  have a diameter of about 0.170 inches, the dimples labelled  2  have a diameter of about 0.180 inches, the dimples labelled  3  have a diameter of about 0.150 inches, and the dimples labelled  4  have a diameter of about 0.190 inches. 
     In another particular aspect of the embodiments disclosed herein wherein there are two or more different dimple diameters on the outer surface of the ball, the number of different dimple diameters, D, on the outer surface is related to the total number of dimples, N, on the outer surface, such that if:
 
 N&lt; 320, then  D≤ 4;
 
320≤ N&lt; 350, then  D≤ 6;
 
350≤ N&lt; 360, then  D≤ 4; and
 
 N≥ 360, then  D≤ 7.
 
     In another particular aspect of the embodiments disclosed herein wherein there are two or more different dimple diameters on the outer surface of the ball, the number of different dimple diameters, D, on the outer surface is related to the total number of dimples, N, on the outer surface, such that if:
 
 N&lt; 328, then  D&gt; 5;
 
 N= 328, then  D&gt; 7;
 
328&lt; N&lt; 376, then  D&gt; 5;
 
 N= 376, then  D&gt; 8; and
 
 N&gt; 376, then  D&gt; 5.
 
     In another particular aspect of the embodiments disclosed herein wherein there are two or more different dimple diameters on the outer surface of the ball, the number of different dimple diameters, D, on the outer surface is related to the total number of dimples, N, on the outer surface, such that if:
 
 N&lt; 320, then  D≥ 6;
 
320≤ N&lt; 350, then  D≥ 7;
 
350≤ N&lt; 360, then  D≥ 6; and
 
 N≥ 360, then  D≥ 9.
 
     In a further particular aspect of the above embodiments wherein there are two or more different dimple diameters on the outer surface of the ball, the total number of dimples on the outer surface is less than 320, the number of different dimple diameters is less than or equal to 4, and the sample standard deviation is less than 0.0175. In another further particular aspect of the above embodiments wherein there are two or more different dimple diameters on the outer surface of the ball, the total number of dimples on the outer surface is greater than or equal to 320 but less than 350, the number of different dimple diameters is less than or equal to 6, and the sample standard deviation is less than 0.0200. In another further particular aspect of the above embodiments wherein there are two or more different dimple diameters on the outer surface of the ball, the total number of dimples on the outer surface is greater than or equal to 350 but less than 360, the number of different dimple diameters is less than or equal to 4, and the sample standard deviation is less than 0.0155. In another further particular aspect of the above embodiments wherein there are two or more different dimple diameters on the outer surface of the ball, the total number of dimples on the outer surface is greater than or equal to 360, the number of different dimple diameters is less than or equal to 7, and the sample standard deviation is less than 0.0200. Sample standard deviation, s, is defined by the equation: 
             s   =           ∑     i   =   1     N     ⁢       (       x   i     -     x   _       )     2         N   -   1               
where x i  is the diameter of any given dimple on the outer surface of the ball,  x  is the average dimple diameter, and N is the total number of dimples on the outer surface of the ball.
 
     It should be understood that manufacturing variances are to be taken into account when determining the number of different dimple diameters. The placement of the dimple in the overall pattern should also be taken into account. Specifically, dimples located in the same location within the multiple copies of the domain(s) that are tessellated to form the dimple pattern are assumed to be same diameter dimples, unless they have a difference in diameter of 0.005 inches or greater. 
     There are no limitations to the dimple shapes or profiles selected to pack the domains. Though the present invention includes substantially circular dimples in one embodiment, dimples or protrusions (brambles) having any desired characteristics and/or properties may be used. For example, in one embodiment the dimples may have a variety of shapes and sizes including different depths and perimeters. In particular, the dimples may be concave hemispheres, or they may be triangular, square, hexagonal, catenary, polygonal or any other shape known to those skilled in the art. They may also have straight, curved, or sloped edges or sides. To summarize, any type of dimple or protrusion (bramble) known to those skilled in the art may be used with the present invention. The dimples may all fit within each domain, as seen in  FIGS. 1A, 1D, and 11E-11P , or dimples may be shared between one or more domains, as seen in  FIGS. 3C-3D , so long as the dimple arrangement on each independent domain remains consistent across all copies of that domain on the surface of a particular golf ball. Alternatively, the tessellation can create a pattern that covers more than about 60%, preferably more than about 70% and preferably more than about 80% of the golf ball surface without using dimples. 
     In other embodiments, the domains may not be packed with dimples, and the borders of the irregular domains may instead comprise ridges or channels. In golf balls having this type of irregular domain, the one or more domains or sets of domains preferably overlap to increase surface coverage of the channels. Alternatively, the borders of the irregular domains may comprise ridges or channels and the domains are packed with dimples. 
     When the domain(s) is patterned onto the surface of a golf ball, the arrangement of the domains dictated by their shape and the underlying polyhedron ensures that the resulting golf ball has a high order of symmetry, equaling or exceeding 12. The order of symmetry of a golf ball produced using the method of the current invention will depend on the regular or non-regular polygon on which the irregular domain is based. The order and type of symmetry for golf balls produced based on the five regular polyhedra are listed below in Table 10. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 10 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Symmetry of Golf Ball of the Present Invention as a 
               
               
                 Function of Polyhedron 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
            
               
                 Type of Polyhedron 
                 Type of Symmetry 
                 Symmetrical Order 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Tetrahedron 
                 Chiral Tetrahedral Symmetry 
                 12 
               
               
                 Cube 
                 Chiral Octahedral Symmetry 
                 24 
               
               
                 Octahedron 
                 Chiral Octahedral Symmetry 
                 24 
               
               
                 Dodecahedron 
                 Chiral Icosahedral Symmetry 
                 60 
               
               
                 Icosahedron 
                 Chiral Icosahedral Symmetry 
                 60 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     These high orders of symmetry have several benefits, including more even dimple distribution, the potential for higher packing efficiency, and improved means to mask the ball parting line. Further, dimple patterns generated in this manner may have improved flight stability and symmetry as a result of the higher degrees of symmetry. 
     In other embodiments, the irregular domains do not completely cover the surface of the ball, and there are open spaces between domains that may or may not be filled with dimples. This allows dissymmetry to be incorporated into the ball. 
     Dimple patterns of the present invention are particularly suitable for packing dimples on seamless golf balls. Seamless golf balls and methods of producing such are further disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,849,007 and 7,422,529, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
     In a particular aspect of the embodiments disclosed herein, golf balls of the present invention have a total number of dimples, N, on the outer surface thereof, wherein N is an integer that is divisible by 4 and within a range of from 260 to 424. In a further particular aspect, golf balls of the present invention have a total number of dimples, N, on the outer surface thereof, of 260 or 280 or 300 or 304 or 308 or 312 or 328 or 348 or 352 or 376 or 388. Alternatively, the present invention provides for a low dimple count embodiment wherein golf balls of the present invention have a total number of dimples, N, on the outer surface thereof, wherein N is an integer that is divisible by 4 and less than 160. 
     Aerodynamic characteristics of golf balls of the present invention can be described by aerodynamic coefficient magnitude and aerodynamic force angle. Based on a dimple pattern generated according to the present invention, in one embodiment, the golf ball achieves an aerodynamic coefficient magnitude of from 0.25 to 0.32 and an aerodynamic force angle of from 30° to 38° at a Reynolds Number of 230000 and a spin ratio of 0.085. Based on a dimple pattern generated according to the present invention, in another embodiment, the golf ball achieves an aerodynamic coefficient magnitude of from 0.26 to 0.33 and an aerodynamic force angle of from 32° to 40° at a Reynolds Number of 180000 and a spin ratio of 0.101. Based on a dimple pattern generated according to the present invention, in another embodiment, the golf ball achieves an aerodynamic coefficient magnitude of from 0.27 to 0.37 and an aerodynamic force angle of from 35° to 44° at a Reynolds Number of 133000 and a spin ratio of 0.133. Based on a dimple pattern generated according to the present invention, in another embodiment, the golf ball achieves an aerodynamic coefficient magnitude of from 0.32 to 0.45 and an aerodynamic force angle of from 39° to 45° at a Reynolds Number of 89000 and a spin ratio of 0.183. For purposes of the present disclosure, aerodynamic coefficient magnitude (C mag ) is defined by C mag =(C L   2 +C D   2 ) 1/2  and aerodynamic force angle (C angle ) is defined by C angle =tan −1 (C L /C D ), where C L  is a lift coefficient and C D  is a drag coefficient. Aerodynamic characteristics of a golf ball, including aerodynamic coefficient magnitude and aerodynamic force angle, are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 6,729,976 to Bissonnette et al., the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. Aerodynamic coefficient magnitude and aerodynamic force angle values are calculated using the average lift and drag values obtained when 30 balls are tested in a random orientation. Reynolds number is an average value for the test and can vary by plus or minus 3%. Spin ratio is an average value for the test and can vary by plus or minus 5%. 
     When numerical lower limits and numerical upper limits are set forth herein, it is contemplated that any combination of these values may be used. 
     All patents, publications, test procedures, and other references cited herein, including priority documents, are fully incorporated by reference to the extent such disclosure is not inconsistent with this invention and for all jurisdictions in which such incorporation is permitted. 
     While the illustrative embodiments of the invention have been described with particularity, it will be understood that various other modifications will be apparent to and can be readily made by those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is not intended that the scope of the claims appended hereto be limited to the examples and descriptions set forth herein, but rather that the claims be construed as encompassing all of the features of patentable novelty which reside in the present invention, including all features which would be treated as equivalents thereof by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains.