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Shape optimization of golf clubface using finite element impact models

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Abstract

To model the impact dynamics of a golf drive, finite element (FE) models of the ball and the clubhead are created and combined to simulate the collision of the two bodies. A three-piece golf ball is modelled using only solid elements, while the clubhead is modelled using solid elements for the crucial area of the impact, i.e. the clubface, and using shell elements for the rest of the clubhead to improve the computational efficiency of the simulation. The correct transfer of forces and moments in the transition area between the shell and solid elements is assured by introducing kinematic nodal constraints using rigid elements. The FE model is used to optimize the shape of the clubface in three steps to maximize the launch velocity of the golf ball for central impacts. A final clubface shape is reached and a total improvement of 4.8 m/s over the initial design is obtained. This is a 7% gain in launch velocity, which results in a driving length advantage of approximately 20 m (or 22 yards) until the first contact with the ground. During the optimization process, the mechanical impedances of the two colliding bodies were recorded and compared. It is shown that the optimal clubhead geometry does not agree with the impedance matching theory by comparing the optimization results to those obtained from a simple lumped parameter model.

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Acknowledgment

The authors would like to thank Dr Tom Mase, who kindly provided a baseline CAD model of a generic clubhead with constant thickness face.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Systems Design Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada, N2L 3G1

    Willem Petersen & John McPhee

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  1. Willem Petersen
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  2. John McPhee
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Correspondence to John McPhee.

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Petersen, W., McPhee, J. Shape optimization of golf clubface using finite element impact models. Sports Eng 12, 77–85 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12283-009-0030-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12283-009-0030-7

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