Abstract: A geometric-shaped core (12) for a golf ball (10) has a plurality of outwardly extending projections (14) formed on a spherical central portion thereof. A layer (22) of a relatively less resilient material is applied in the interstitial space between the projections (14) on the surface of the core (12), and a cover (24) is applied over the core (12) and interstitial layer (22). The geometric-shaped core (12) is manufactured by first providing flexible, resilient, honeycombed inserts (42) to be used in a conventional compression mold (30). The inserts (42) are placed into the upper and lower mold cavities (30), the core material (40) is added, and the geometric-shaped golf ball core (12) is compression molded.

Abstract: A golf ball having an oxygen barrier layer to protect an oxygen sensitive core is disclosed herein. The preferred oxygen barrier film is an EVOH film. The core is preferably polybutadiene and a cover is preferably polyurethane. The oxygen barrier film reduces the loss of resilience over time, and reduces the increase in compression of the golf ball over time.

Abstract: A laser is positioned relative to a rotating golf ball to remove any excess material, and if necessary to impart an aerodynamic pattern on particular areas of the golf ball, including the parting line. A preferred laser is a carbon dioxide laser. The laser beam may be de-focused to form a dimple on the parting line of the golf ball.

Abstract: A geometric-shaped core for a golf ball has a plurality of outwardly extending projections formed on a spherical central portion thereof. A layer of a relatively less resilient material is applied in the interstitial space between the projections on the surface of the core, and a cover is applied over the core and interstitial layer. The geometric-shaped core is manufactured by first providing flexible, resilient, honeycombed inserts to be used in a conventional compression mold. The inserts are placed into the upper and lower mold cavities, the core material is added, and the geometric-shaped golf ball core is compression molded.

Abstract: A low resin content unidirectional fiber tape is disclosed for use in incorporating unidirectional fibers in dry fiber preform for use in a resin transfer molding process. A plurality of unidirectional fibers are located between a pair of thin flexible resin films which hold the fibers together without significant infiltration into the fibers. The films also have sufficient adhesiveness to maintain contact with a release layer but are not so adhesive that they do not prevent removal of the unidirectional tape with hand pressure. Preferably the total resin content of the films is from 1% to 20%, preferably 3% to 15% by weight relative to the total resin and fiber weight. At such a level, the tape is capable of being handled by a preform assembler and draped over contoured surfaces without distortion or separation of the unidirectional fibers.