Patent Grant
8206234
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a golf putter which may or may not include an acrylic golf putter head including a solid metal body of predetermined weight and size conforming to U.S. Golf Association (USGA) rules and regulations while still demonstrating a sufficiently high Moment Of Inertia (MOI) to significantly increase the accuracy of the golf putter, when used.
2. Description of the Related Art
Golf clubs are provided in a variety of material, shapes, dimensions, and weights; each head design having a unique function or advantage.
Golf clubs are used in the sport of golf to hit a golf ball. Each club is composed of a shaft with a lance (grip) and a club head. Woods are used for long-distance fairway shots; irons, the most versatile class used for a variety of shots, and putters, used mainly on the green to roll the ball into the cup.
An important variation in different clubs is loft, or the angle between the club's face and the vertical plane. It is loft that makes a golf ball leave the tee on an ascending trajectory, not the angle of swing; virtually all swings contact the ball with a horizontal motion. The impact of the club compresses the ball, while grooves on the clubface give the ball backspin (a clockwise spin when viewed from a parallel standpoint to the left of the ball). Together, the compression and backspin create lift. The majority of woods and irons are labeled with a number; higher numbers indicate shorter shafts and higher lofts, which give the ball a higher and shorter trajectory.
While the variation of clubs can differ greatly between golfers, a set used to play a round of golf must have no more than 14 clubs. A full set typically consists of a driver, two fairway woods (generally 3-woods and 5-woods, a set of irons from 3 to 9, a pitching wedge, a sand wedge, a putter, and one more club of the player's choice. Many players opt to avoid the 3- and 4-irons (which are more difficult to hit). Another common variation is to use only the 3, 5, 7, and 9 out of the numbered irons. The extra space in the player's bag can then be filled with more woods, easier-to-hit “hybrid” clubs, additional high-loft or intermediate wedges, and/or a specialized chipping club or multiple putters.
Putters are a special class of clubs with a loft not exceeding ten degrees and designed primarily to roll the ball along the grass, generally from a point on the putting green towards the cup. Contrary to popular belief, putters do have a loft (often 5 degrees from truly perpendicular at impact) that helps to lift the ball from any indentation it has made. This increases rolling distance and reduces bouncing over the turf.
Each head has one face that contacts the ball during the stroke. Clubs may have two striking faces; as long as they are identical and symmetrical (some putters and chippers are designed in this fashion, and may be used by left or right-handed players). The overwhelming majority of clubs have only one striking face.
An issue identified with golf clubs is a twisting motion of the club head when swinging the golf club. A moment of inertia (MOI) refers to resistance to a twisting of the club face from alignment as the slightly less than two ounce ball is hit by the twelve ounce club head, if and when slightly mis-hit, or when contacted off the sweet spot. This occurs regularly by amateur golfers, especially with longer putts.
Extensive tests show that a ball mis-hit by as little as ¾ of an inch will impart a side spin, which will cause the ball to fall “off target” by as much as approximately eight inches along a twelve (12) foot putt. This same mis-hit could result in as much as a ten to fifteen percent shortfall in distance. With longer putts this can lead to three-putt greens in addition to the missed one-putt holes.
Currently, golf putters come in two shapes and designs. The blade, which is generally an “L” configuration with a sole plate supporting a usually thin standing face. This shape also commonly has one-to-one and a half-ounce heel and toe weights as part of the face and sole casting. Because the putter head weight, for distance “touch” on fast contoured greens is generally between 11 ounces and 12 ounces, the length for most blade putters is 4.0 to 4.5 inches. This limits the moment arm for the heel and toe section to about 1.25 inches long. Since the formula for calculating Moment of Inertia (MOI) is the total head weight (typically express in grams) times the length of the head squared in centimeters between the center of mass and the “sweet spot,” on the face, wherein the MOI is expressed as grams/cm2.
With the blade type design, the MOI of the heel and toe section are computed separately and then added together. The “sweet spot” is the fulcrum point about which the face twists or revolves when mis-hit. Hence, typically MOI of most blade putters is in the range of 3500 to 4000 grams/cm2.
The mallet design is similar, except that the weight is purposely located to the rear of the head, in line with straddling the center of mass and the sweet spot axis. Here, the design rules of the U.S. Golf Association (USGA) come into play in that the head may not be deeper than the head is long, and the face may not be shorter than two-thirds of the head length. Though many mallet designs have a head depth and length of four and five inches, the typical center of mass point has yet to be moved more than 1.6 inches back from the face; even though extremely thin plates or aluminum rings are used to support the “back weighting.” Hence, the typical MOI for the mallet design is 4500 to 5000 grams/cm2. Some manufacturers may advertise a higher MOI, but this is the result of using a heavier than desirable head weight.
Independent tests done by Golf Magazine for three years running using six to eight of the most popular putters, machine struck at a 12-foot flat distance, show the “falling off” line, when 0.75 inches miss-struck, to be from 6 to 10 inches. Similar “distance tests” were performed using the same clubs at a 16-foot distance. Here the “short fall” with a 0.75 inch mis-hit ranged from 10% to 14%. This extrapolates to 3% average (plus) per 0.25 inch and proportional to the MOI, as above. Accordingly, present putters are so similar in MOI that little, in any difference, in strokes saved is likely.
The typical professional golfer uses an average of 30 putts per 18 holes. The typical mid- to high-handicap player uses 38-40 putts per round. Certainly, most of the difference is due to practice, better ability to read the green, plus a more consistent stroke that allows the golfer to consistently strike the ball on the “sweet spot.”
It is estimated that one-half of this 8-10 stroke difference is caused by mis-hitting the ball. Perhaps if a significantly higher MOI club could be developed, where striking the ball on the sweet spot was not so important, part of those 4-5 strokes could be saved.
Thus, what is desired is a means for putting a golf ball in repeatable manner, by providing a golf putter with a substantially higher MOI putter head.
The present invention is directed to a golf putter, more specifically a golf club comprising a frame or body fabricated of a metal and having a toe end cap and a heel end cap, the end caps being spaced apart one from the other by at least one rib or integral with the toe and heel end caps, the at least one rib and end caps partially defining at least central body void. An elongated central filler segment filling the central body void or chamber having a top surface and a bottom surface, and in the combination with the frame defining at least one generally or substantially vertically oriented planar ball contacting or striking face, wherein the central filler segment is fabricated of a polymer based material and further wherein the frame generating a moment of inertia significantly greater than a filler segment excluding the end caps.
One aspect of the present invention utilizes a body including a filler segment fabricated of a polymer based material such as an acrylic acetate having a marble like appearance.
Another aspect of the present invention utilizes a metal selected from a metal group consisting of brass, bronze, copper, stainless steel, steel, titanium, aluminum, and nickel for the fabrication of the body end caps or portions. The end caps or portions can be finished such as a nickel, silver, or gold plating, anodized, and the like for additional aesthetic appeal.
While another aspect assembles the body end cap to the filler segment utilizing an interface selected from an interface group consisting of dowel pins, tongue and groove, sliding dovetail joint, modified bridle joint, and a mortise and tenon. The dowel pins can be threaded, slotted, knurled, and the like to aid in mechanical retention.
In another aspect the golf club incorporates a ball strike portion (“ball strike”), preferably fabricated using a member having an annular ring shape such as a brass washer having a polymer-filled center, which is preferably an acrylic acetate, concentric with a “sweet spot” of the club head contact face.
Yet another aspect incorporates a laminate of acrylic assembled between the body end cap and the filler segment. The use of acrylic lends itself to the construction of a variety of combinations of colors and weights. The acrylic can include a variety of patterns further enhancing the aesthetics of the putter club. Additionally, the acrylic enables the putter club to easily be machined and/or sanded, then polished to reshape the head, customize (adding or reducing) the weight, and the like. This contrasts a metal putter club which is much more difficult to reshape and refinish.
And another aspect aligns a shaft with a center of the ball strike. It is preferred that shaft is located in the vertical centerline of the mass of the club. This configuration ensures the putter handle hangs vertically, making plumb bob break reading more accurate.
Wherein another aspect provides a second planar contacting surface located parallel to the first planar contacting surface. This configuration allows the player to use the putter as both a left handed and right handed player. By a change only in shafting the club.
An additional aspect of the present invention utilizes the higher Moment of Inertia (MOI) to stabilize the putter club. By incorporating a much denser material than the filler segment at each end of the filler segment an extremely high MOI is provided. More specifically and as emphasized throughout the more detailed description of the plurality of embodiments of the putter head, the predetermined weight of the body, including the filler segment, when used, and the dimension and configuration of said body are collectively determinative of a predetermined and preferred Moment Of Inertia (MOI) of said body. The structuring of the putter head to demonstrate a significantly greater MOI (generally about 10,000 gram/cm2 to 13,000 gram/cm2) contrasts with the currently used means of adding weight to the back of the putter head as in the mallet design to increase the MOI. The additional weight only marginally reduces the feel or touch for distance. An undesirable result with the present shape and size of current putters in the range of twelve ounces, which makes head weight comparable to the head weight of better putters.
Another aspect or feature is that the design utilizes a straight shaft attached to the symmetrically balanced head, which allows the shaft to be used in a manner similar to a plumb bob for accurate and easy reading of the expected break (or side movement) in the course or the ball due to gravity. Working off a known vertical to estimate the break or course of travel is more accurate than the horizontal plane that depends upon a golfer's sense of balance, which varies with age, vision and health. The vertical plumb bob technique or method of reading produces a specific target point to aim at or above, where working off the horizontal does not.
With another aspect includes the structuring of the putter club head to be longer, such as 6″ to 7″. A larger putter head allows or makes possible easier alignment of the club with the target. This compares to conventional putters, which incorporate a front putter club head length of 4″ to 4.5″.
While another aspect provides contact surfaces that are angled, providing lift to the golf balls when struck.
Whereas another aspect incorporates putter centerline references across the top surface of the putter club, allowing the player to reference the “sweet spot” from the top of the club.
With another aspect providing a central contact surface plate along a central position of at least one of the contacting surfaces of the putter club.
Yet another aspect utilizes a putter club having a rounded toe and heel, such that the player can only use one of the two playing surfaces for contacting the golf ball, as directed by the United States Golf Association (USGA) guidelines.
Another aspect provides left and right ribs or side segments extending between and interconnecting to the toe and heel to define the void for the polymer based filler segment.
A further aspect provides a vertical support rib extending between the left and right ribs and in registration with a center of mass.
And yet another aspect provides a horizontal support rib extending between the left and right ribs and in registration with a center of mass.
The present invention comprises yet additional preferred embodiments of the golf putter head including a body having a substantially integral construction. More specifically, the body includes oppositely disposed end portions or end caps located at and at least partially defining the toe end and the heel end of the body. Each of these opposite end portions are interconnected by integrally formed side segments disposed in spaced relation to one another. Each of the side segments includes an outer side surface such that at least one of the side segments include a ball striking face of the body and putter head. As will be explained in greater detail hereinafter, the versatility of the putter head may be increased by structuring and/or configuring each of the exterior surfaces of each of the two side segments to define oppositely disposed striking faces. As such, the golf putter incorporating the putting head as set forth therein may be used by right handed or left handed golfers.
In addition, the head includes a substantially centrally disposed chamber extending along a predetermined length and preferably at least a majority of the length of the body. The lower end of the chamber may, in certain embodiments be left open. However, in other preferred embodiments the body includes a floor disposed in covering, closing relation to a corresponding end of the chamber such that the floor is integrally secured to the remainder of the body including the two side segments and the opposite end portions. As a result, the exterior surface of the floor defines a bottom end or exterior surface of the putter head and/or body along with corresponding surfaces of the end portions.
The chamber is further formed and structured to at least initially or originally include an open or upper top end which may be disposed in aligned relation to the upper or top surface of the body of the putter head. In an additional preferred embodiment of the present invention, the body further includes a filler segment sufficiently configured and dimensioned to fill the centrally disposed chamber of the body such that substantially the entire interior of the chamber is filled with the filler segment and the initially open upper end of the chamber is closed or covered by the filler segment. As such, the filler segment is preferably disposed in aligned substantially coplanar relation to the upper or top surface of the body of the putter head. It is emphasized that the putter head as defined in different embodiments of the present invention may be structured to include the filler segment within the chamber or alternately, leave the chamber open and/or absent the filler segment. However, as also set forth herein, in certain embodiments the inclusion of the polymer material filler segment within the chamber increase the stability, strength and/or durability of the butter head.
As also set forth in greater detail hereinafter the structuring of the body of the putter head is such as to define a predetermined moment of inertia (MOI) thereby facilitating a smoother, reliable, more accurate stroke of the putter head when utilized. The MOI in turn is at least partially dependant on the weight of the material from which the body is formed and as such the body is preferably formed of a metallic material of a predetermined weight. The metallic material from which the body is formed may differ and may include aluminum, stainless steel, bronze and/or a variety of other metals. The overall weigh of the head, as at least partially defined above, is preferably between 10 ounces and 12 ounces and in at least one preferred embodiment generally about 11 ounces. Concurrently, the length of the body of the putter head should comply with USGA rules and regulations. Accordingly the length of the body of the putter head is generally about 6″ and may be generally about 7″, as set forth in greater detail hereinafter.
In maintaining the intended and preferred weight parameters of the body of the putter head, including the weight of the filler segment when included, the dimension and/or configuration of the body may vary but preferably is within the dimensional parameters of 6″ or 7″. Accordingly, the structuring of the putter head to be within both the above set forth weight and dimensional parameters, while demonstrating a significant increase in MOI over conventional putter heads, such as in the range of 10,000 grams/cm2 to 13,000 grams/cm2, is dependent on the weight of the metal or other material from which the body of the head is formed and the cooperative adaptation of the configuration of the putter head body needed to achieve the preferred higher range of MOI, as set forth above.
Also, the heavier the material from which the body of the putter head is formed the dimension and/or configuration of the chamber may be at least partially increased and the size and/or configuration of the at least some of the remaining body portions may be at least partially decreased, to accommodate the heavier body. In the alternative, the lesser the weight of the metallic material from which the body of the putter head is formed, the smaller the dimension and/or configuration of the chamber and an at least partial increase in the other body portions. As a result, varying weight, dimension and/or configuration of the body, including the chamber, will be at least partially determinative of the MOI. Such physical variance will be dependent on the preferred and intended parameters of the body of the putter head being between 10 and 12 ounces and in a preferred embodiment generally about 11 ounces and the MOI being 10,000 grams/cm2 to 13,000 grams/cm2. However, one feature common to both the heavier and lighter putter bodies is the concentration of at least most of the gross weight of the body in the end portions, such as in the toe and heel end portions.
These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become clearer when the drawings as well as the detailed description are taken into consideration.
For a fuller understanding of the nature of the present invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:
Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings.
For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper’, “lower”, “left”, “rear”, “right”, “front”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in
Turning to the drawings,
The putter main body 101 is fabricated of a polymer, such as an acrylic base material. The acrylic is preferably of a marble-like appearance and can be of a single stock or laminated stock to obtain the required dimensions. The putter main body 101 would be roughly shaped slightly larger than the desired finished geometry. The ends of the putter main body 101 are machined to a planar surface for assembly of the body end caps 108. The body end caps 108 are fabricated from any reasonable metal or similar material having a weight and hardness that is desired. A pair of body end caps 108 are formed via any known process, including casting, machining, extruding, and the like, selected based upon the respective material chosen. A body end cap 108 is assembled to each end of the putter main body 101 via any desired joining interface, including a butt joint, utilizing at least one (preferably a pair) threaded dowels 130 as illustrated in
When the adhesive (such as an epoxy) is properly cured, the completed putter head is shaped into the final geometry using any known shaping means, such as a belt sander, a milling machine, and the like. The finished head provides a putter top surface 102 that is preferably planar, a left handed planar putting surface 104 and a right handed planar putting surface 106 (parallel to the left handed planar putting surface 104), and a putter bottom surface 103. The putter bottom surface 103 is shaped having a convex or convex-like elevation shape, providing a central portion that has a larger height compared to each of the two ends. The edges are then chamfered or rounded using the appropriate machines, such as a disc sander, belt sander, small router, and the like. The assembly can be polished to the desired finish, such as a high luster, a matt luster, or a sanded finish. The shaft 120 is assembled to the putter top surface 102, passing through the shaft ferrule 122, and into a hole drilled into the body 101. The shaft 120 is then secured into the hold with an epoxy.
The general dimensions of at least one embodiment of the putter club are presented in
The shape of the putter assembly 100 illustrated presents a vertical contact face 104, 106. Alternate embodiments can be designed utilizing a lofting face, or one that is angled such to lift the ball when struck.
The putter club provides a lightweight central body 101 having a heavier body end caps 108 disposed upon each end. The central body 101 is preferred to have a weight of four to five ounces. The end caps 108 would have a preferable weight of six (6) to seven (7) ounces. This configuration provides a higher Moment of Inertia (MOI), which reduces the potential of rotation of the club head during a swing when mis-hit. The weight and MOI can be tailored by selection of materials, removing some material from the interior of the central body or chamber 101 and/or the end caps 108, modifying the shape of the club, and the like including adding weight to the inside of the shaft.
The shape of the putter can be varied as shown in a second exemplary embodiment referred to as a putter assembly 200 and illustrated in
The putter club is fabricated having a putter main body 201 and a pair of body end caps 208 assembled to each end of the putter main body 201. The putter main body 201 is defined having a putter top surface 202, a putter bottom surface 203, a left handed planar putting surface 204, and a right handed planar putting surface 206. The putter main body 201 is preferably fabricated of an acrylic acetate material, but can be fabricated of any reasonable lightweight, durable material. In the exemplary embodiment, a marbled acrylic material is used, providing an aesthetically pleasing putter fiber. Glass strands may be added to the basic acrylic mixture to increase the strength of the material.
An optional contrasting laminate 209 can be laminated between the body end cap 208 and the putter main body 201. In the exemplary embodiment, the contrasting laminate 209 is fabricated of a solid colored acrylic sheet. The contrasting laminate 209 is glued to the end of the putter main body 201 using commonly known adhesives for bonding acrylics.
An optional ball strike 210 can be assembled to the putter main body 201 aligned to what is commonly referred to as the “sweet spot” as previously disclosed. The sweet spot is located by a line axis through the center of mass and intersecting the club face when the club face is perpendicular to the target. The ball strike 210 can include an optional ball strike center reference 212 located centered within the ball strike 210, further aiding in identifying the optimal ball contact location. A central contact surface plate 216 can be assembled to the putter main body 201, providing a harder surface for ball impact compared to the putter main body 201. The central contact surface plate 216 is fabricated of a metal or other dense material. The central contact surface plate 216 can be inserted into a strike plate recess 217, forming a flush surface along each of the left handed planar putting surface 204 and right handed planar putting surface 206. The ball strike 210 can optionally include a logo, a design, be of a coin, a washer, or other stamped object, and the like. A series of putter centerline reference 218 can be provided within the putter top surface 202 providing identification of the “sweet spot” from the top of the putter. The advantage of this alternate metal face insert is to provide a more familiar sound to the player, plus providing a faster ball reaction off the face. Reduced end weighting corrects to weight so added. It is understood the putter assembly 200 can include one or more of the putter centerline references 218. The centerline references 218 can be a rifle site marking, either recessed or imprinted.
The fabrication of the putter club initiates by roughly shaping the putter main body 201 into a shape and size slightly larger than the desired finished geometry. The ends of the putter main body 201 are machined to a planar, preferably parallel, surface for assembly of the body end caps 208. The body end caps 208 are fabricated from any reasonable metal or similar material having a density, weight and hardness that are desired. The preferable material can be Brass, Bronze, Stainless Steel, and the like. A pair of body end caps 208 are formed via any known process, including casting, machining, extruding, and the like, selected based upon the respective material chosen. One body end cap 208 is assembled to each end of the putter main body 201 via any desired joining interface, including a butt joint. The joint can be reinforced with the inclusion of at least one (preferably a pair) threaded dowel 230 as illustrated in
When the adhesive (such as an epoxy) is properly cured, the completed putter head is shaped into the final geometry using any known means, such as a belt sander, a milling machine, and the like. The finished head provides a putter top surface 202 that is preferably planar, a left handed planar putting surface 204 and a right handed planar putting surface 206, and a putter bottom surface 203. The putter bottom surface 203 is shaped having a convex or convex-like elevation shape, providing a central portion that has a larger height compared to each of the two ends. The bottom edge preferably is flat along approximately ⅔ of the overall length of the putter club. The ends of the putter club, primarily the body end cap 208 and proximate region of the club are rounded to meet the requirements of the USGA. The edges are then chamfered or rounded using the appropriate machines. The ends may be convex or concave as long as they do not constitute a reasonable hitting surface.
The two sides 204, 206 can be angled providing a loft as illustrated via angle 250 of
Identifiers and other finishing elements, such as the ball strike 210, putter centerline reference 218, and optional contact surface plate 216, are assembled using an appropriate joining medium. The various finishing elements must not be loose or hollowed behind them. Since the assembly location of at least a portion of the components is critical, the locations are determined after the putter club is shaped. The ball strike receiving cavity 214 is machined into either the putter main body 201 or the central contact surface plate 216, based upon the desired design. Where an optional central contact surface plate 216 is included, the strike plate recess 217 is machined into the left handed planar putting surface 204 and right handed planar putting surface 206 of the putter main body 201. The central contact surface plate 216 is inserted into the strike plate recess 217 and secured via a full filled waterproof bonding agent. The ball strike 210 is inserted into the ball strike receiving cavity 214 of the central contact surface plate 216 and secured via a bonding agent. The series of putter centerline references 218 are assembled by forming a hole for each of the putter centerline reference 218. The putter centerline reference 218 is inserted into the hole, leaving a small portion proud of the putter top surface 202. The completed putter club is machined, smoothing all surfaces.
The assembly can be final shaped and polished to the desired finish, such as a high luster, a matt luster, or a sanded finish. The shaft 220 is assembled to the putter top surface 202, passing through the shaft ferrule 222, and into the shaft receiving hole 221 of the body 201. The shaft 220 is then secured into the hole with an epoxy. The shaft receiving hold 221 can be located centered or offset along the longitudinal axis of the putter top surface 202 based upon the selected shaft 220. This promotes a proper straight back and through stroke, preferred by most golfers.
Although the putter main body 101, 201 is presented as having two planar contacting surfaces, it is recognized that the putter can be formed having only one planar contacting surface and any variety of shapes formed on the opposing side. This would define the putter as a single-handed design. The acrylic putter head samples provided are of a variety of colors (or clear), including (but not limited to) blue, green, black, purple, pink, white, yellow, and red. The acrylic includes a marbling appearance providing a very unique appearance to the club. The body 101, 201 can be fabricated via laminating a plurality of acrylic pieces into a design. The acrylic pieces can be of different colors and the lamination can be random or patterned, such as cross banding, lengthwise, checkered, and the like. The welding of the pieces using the solvent actually increases the strength of the body 101, 201. The body end cap 108 is provided in solid brass. The ball strike 110 is provided in solid brass. The ball strike center reference 112 is of a hard red acrylic material. The optional contrasting laminate 109 is provided in any available colors of acrylic. The various colors, textures, grains, and other appearances of the materials allows for distinctive personalized choices.
The putter club can be further modified with several optional design features. The putter club 100, 200 can be fabricated including a metal bottom surface 103, 203. The bottom surface 103, 203 can include a convex curvature arranged along a longitudinal axis of the putter main body 101, 201 (which will be detailed in the illustration of
As set forth above, the MOI is calculated by multiplying the total weight of the body of the putter head, in grams, by the distance squared between the “sweet spot” on the face and the center or mass point of the body head, wherein the MOI presented in grams/cm2. However, for purposes of accuracy and clarity the calculation of the MOI of the body of the putter head in each of the preferred embodiments may be accomplished by determining the MOI of the various components of the body, such as the end portions, side segments and other portions of the body and then adding these independently obtained MOI's to obtain a final MOI of the body of the putter head.
Optional features are presented in two exemplary embodiments, a putter assembly 300 illustrated in
The putter assembly 400 is formed including the same general components as the putter assemblies 100, 200, 300, providing a putter assembly 400 assembled to a club end of a shaft 420. The putter assembly 400 comprises a body end cap 408 assembled at each end of the putter main body 401. The putter main body 401 is defined having a putter top surface 402, a putter bottom surface 403, a left handed planar putting surface 404, and a right handed planar putting surface 406. A contrasting laminate 409 can be laminated between each of the body end cap 408 and the putter main body 401. The putter main body 401 can be shaped to include a concave bottom surface 410.
As shown in
The construction of the putter can be further varied as shown in a third exemplary embodiment referred to as a putter assembly 500 and illustrated in
Putter head 560 has a frame or body 561 preferably formed of metal that has opposing end caps or portions 508 at a toe and heel of putter assembly 500 integrally connected one to the other in a spaced apart manner by left and right side segments or ribs 562 and 563 respectively. The body 561 also includes a chamber or void in which is received a filler segment 501. Filler segment 501 is preferably formed of an acrylic acetate material, but can be fabricated of any reasonable lightweight durable material including, but not limited to, the previously discussed marbled acrylic material. Filler segment 501 is pressed into frame 561 in a close fit manner and glued therein with glue such as an epoxy that effectively bonds the material of filler segment 501 to the material of frame 561. A series of putter centerline reference marks 518 can be provided within top surface 502 of putter filler segment 501 providing identification of the “sweet spot” when looking down onto the top of the putter. Those practiced in the art will recognize that although not shown here and as discussed with respect to putter club 200, a ball strike similar to strike 210 with an optional ball strike center reference 212 can be assembled to putter head 560 and aligned to the “sweet spot”. In this manner, the putter club 500 includes a putter head 560 that has a lightweight central filler segment 501 and heavier body end caps 508 with the benefits of the higher moment of inertia as described above and further includes metal faces on both the left and right sides 562 and 563 of the club with which golfers are most familiar. While frame or body 561 was described as a metal and filler segment 501 described as an acrylic, those practiced in the art will understand that other materials can be substituted as long as the overall weight and dimensions of the putter head 560 are maintained within the weight and dimensional limits proscribed by the USGA and further that the material of frame or body 561 is substantially more dense than filler segment 501.
Referring now to
The end cross-sectional profile view (
For further rigidity and stability of putter heads 560 and 660, additional support ribs can be included within putter heads 560 and 660. Putter head 660 is used for illustrational purposes but those practiced in the art will recognize that the concepts presented with respect to putter head 660 are also applicable to putter head 560. As illustrated in
The development of the present invention was derived as follows:
In order to extend the end weights so they were working on a longer moment arm, it was recognized that a lightweight, but strong filler segment was needed. The filler segment needed to withstand the repeat striking force with repeated hits to a golf ball. Acrylic acetate was found to be light, just an ounce per inch, strong, yet resilient enough to not crack or shatter when striking the ball or dropped on a cart path.
The area required to preserve this strength and give sufficient area for a dependable connection to the end was 1⅜″×1″. This allowed for glue (epoxy) plus a mechanical connection between two dissimilar materials. The heavy or thick application of a soft epoxy acted as a shock gasket between the two, with the metal threaded studs 230 taking most of the shear force transmitted to the acrylic acetate filler segment 201 by a solid, but somewhat soft epoxy as an anchor at the holes as well as the face. The face being deeply abraded for maximum gluing area.
The balance of the head and the end shape was dictated by USGA design rules, such as a flat hard striking face (0.85 on a shore scale “A”) durometer. The end caps 208 must be rounded sufficient so as not to count as a third and fourth “hitting face”. The length of the head may not exceed seven inches. The shaft connection location can be any where along the length of the head.
It will be noted that the resulting head weights of up to as high as sixteen (16) ounces. This is purposely designed as the softer face material only gives a reaction of 75-80 percent of a metal face with a metal backing. With this weight head (14-16 ounces), the ball goes the same distance with the same stroke length that the golfer is used to. Hence, no retraining or adjustment of stroke length or speed is required. The basic design, if done with twelve ounce head design, would be five (5) inches long with three and a half ounce end weights and produces an MOI of 8,000 gm/cm2; a healthy improvement over any existing putters.
By solidly gluing a ⅛″ face insert 216, about two (2) inches long, the reaction and sound is almost identical to an all metal head. This extra 1½ ounce is easily compensated for by a reduction in the speed of the golfer's stroke and executing a more deliberate stroke.
Testing was completed using “toe board” tests. This is where a ball is first struck on the sweet spot with a vertical board spiked to the ground. Then the ball is placed and hit several times with the same stroke, only with the ball closer to the board. This guarantees a half or three quarters inch mis-hit. When done repeatedly, gives fairly accurate comparable results. In some respects, this is a more accurate test because in the machine, the grip and shaft are rigidly restrained and not like the softer, realistic grip of the golfer. In short, the Inventor's toe board tests, done at an eighteen foot distance with a dozen balls struck “on” and the alternately “off” the sweet spot, showed no measurable difference of “fall off” or distance. Calculations suggest the clubs of the present invention have a substantially higher MOI compared to existing putter head designs. Based upon the tests and laws of physics, the expected savings in the number of putts made by the average golfer is 1-3 strokes per 18 holes.
In summary, the following benefits are provided by the present invention:
1) The putter main filler segment 101 is fabricated of an acrylic, or acrylic like material. The filler segment material is lightweight. Each of the body end cap 108 is fabricated of a metallic material, preferably Brass, thus significantly denser than the filler segment. This configuration provides an extremely high MOI, providing a high resistance to twisting, while maintaining a head that is comparable to an all-metal design. The higher the MOI, the straighter the travel of the ball. This additionally reduces any potential “fall off” due to limited torque or twisting of the club. Additionally, there is less loss of distance resulting in fewer three-putt greens.
2) Variations in the dimensions of the putter main filler segment 101 and the body end cap 108 can alter the weight and MOI.
The estimated overall weight can incorporating a denser material at each end of the less dense putter filler segment, the design provides a higher MOI.
3) The putter includes a centrally located shaft to head connection point. The club head is preferably symmetric. Offset shafting only gives a better view of the ball. It does not affect balance, weight, or MOI. The majority of the putters currently available fail to hang straight, due to a variety of design features, such as a bent shaft, offset flange, and the like. The design of the present invention allows the player to utilize the club as a plumb bob, usable about each and every axis when lightly held from the grip end, if a straight shaft is chosen.
4) The acrylic filler segment is soft enough to be machined using commonly available tools, such as a belt sander, yet durable enough to be reliably assembled to the others components. The acrylic is provided in a variety of colors and designs, making every club unique and aesthetically pleasing. The acrylic can be polished and re-polished to any of a variety of finishes. This allows the player to maintain the putter in an original condition simply by hand polishing the club. The basic shape can be easily accomplished using standard tools without the high initial cost of molds and castings. Eventually, injection molding and castings may be warranted. Several molds may be created for various head lengths.
5) The overall club dimensions can vary simply by machining the putter main filler segment 101, the body end cap 108 or both. The club can be longer, such as 5 to 7 inches, while meeting the maximum desired putter club head weight of 12 to 13 ounces. The longer face makes for easier alignment as well as increasing the MOI. Added head weight need only be in the “one ounce per inch body”.
The above description is considered that of the preferred embodiments only. Modifications of the invention will occur to those skilled in the art and to those who make or use the invention. Therefore, it is understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings and described above are merely for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which is defined by the following claims as interpreted according to the principles of patent awl, including the doctrine of equivalents.
The present invention includes yet additional preferred embodiment represented in
Other features of the putter head 700, specifically included in the integrally formed body 702 is provision of a chamber 714 substantially centrally disposed on or within the body 702. More specifically, the dimension and configuration of the centrally disposed chamber 714 is defined by both the opposite end portions 704 and 706 as well as the two side segments 708 and 710. Also the integrally connected floor portion 712 defines the lower or innermost boundaries of the chamber 714 such that the floor portion 712 effectively covers and/or closes the inner end of the chamber 714. In contrast, the opposite or outer end 714′ of the chamber 714 is at least initially or originally open and is disposed in substantially coplanar and/or otherwise aligned relation with the exterior top or upper surface 703 of the body 702. The exterior bottom surface 702″ is at least partially defined by the outer surface of the floor 712 and, depending upon the overall dimension and configuration of the body 702 of the putter head 700 the exterior bottom surface 702″ can often be at least partially defined by corresponding and/or adjacent/continuous surfaces of the opposite end portions 704′ and 706′.
As schematically represented in
It is of course acknowledged and recognized that the different metallic materials from which the body 702 was formed have different weights. Therefore, the establishment of the preferred 10 ounce to 12 ounce and/or 11 ounce weight of the body 702 can effectively be “regulated” or varied by an appropriate change in the dimension and configuration of the chamber 714 and or the other portions of the body including the end portions 704 and 706 and the side segments 707 and 710. The weight of the filler segment 715 is also to be considered when determining the weight of the head 702.
A comparison of the embodiments of
By way of example only, the stainless steel metal from which the body 702′ is formed will mandate the chamber 714′ having a somewhat enlarged and/or elongated configuration as represented in
Therefore, a general statement relative to the maintenance and determination of the preferred gross weight of the putter head 700 would be accurately defined as the heavier the predetermined weight of the metallic material from which the body 702 is formed, the larger the central opening 714 is made. In contrast, the lighter metallic material from which the body 702 is formed the smaller the chamber 714″ is made. However, one feature preferably common to both the heavier and lighter putter bodies is the concentration of at least most of the gross weight of the body, collectively in the end portions, such as in the toe and heel end portions.
Additional structural and operative features associated with the putter head 700 and/or body 702 as set forth above with the embodiments of
Yet additional structural and operative features of the additional preferred embodiments of
Further with regard to the embodiment of
As set forth above, the embodiment of
Yet additional structural features include the shaft 720 and shaft ferrule 722 cooperatively disposed and arranged such that the corresponding end of the shaft 720 is embedded within and supported by the polymer material from which the filler segment 715 is formed. Such a connection of the end of the shaft is strong and stable, particularly when the outer surface of the shaft end is knurled, ribbed or otherwise roughened. This shaft connection is different from the structure of the embodiment of
Further as noted in the above described
With primary reference to
With general reference to
As will be explained hereinafter, a plurality of golf balls 914 were struck a significantly large number of times in a manner which accomplished the striking of the golf ball 914 at the “sweet spot” of the putter head 912. Also, a large number of purposefully off or “miss-hits” from a predetermined distance from the sweet spot were made. In the latter performance of the “mis-hit” strokes it will be apparent, with at least partial reference to the schematical graph of
It is again emphasized that common structural and operational characteristics of the higher MOI putter heads represented in the embodiments of 1-38, and in particular 31-38, include the concentration of the heavier portions of the putter head at the end portions which is the toe end portion and the tail end portion. This is true whether the floor of the embodiments of
Accordingly, the weight of the metal from which the putter head is formed may differ and include aluminum, stainless steel, bronze, etc. As a result, the size and configuration of the central chamber vary as well as the size and size and configuration of the other portions of the putter head body including the side segments, end portions and floor. This represents a near total reversal of the weight distribution with regard to conventional putters while preferably maintaining the weight of the putter head of between 10 to 12 ounces and preferably 11 ounces.
As disclosed in the graphical representation of
Further with regard to
In regards to the “short fall” or loss of intended distance, test results indicate that a putt mis-hit by three quarters of an inch loses 10% of its distance assuming that a conventional putter head having an MOI of 4,000 to 5,000 gram/cm2 is utilized. In contrast, 50 putts similarly mis-hit by three quarters of an inch having an 8,000 MOI gram/cm2 come up 5% short. Moreover a putter head having a 12,000 MOI comes up 2 to 3% shorter when mis-hit by three quarters of an inch. As conventionally recognized, there are approximately six long putts from 30 to 90 feet in the typical 18 hold round of golf. As a result, an obvious conclusion would be that at least one three putt green would be avoided by using a high MOI putter thereby saving possibly two strokes a round.
It is again emphasized, that the MOI in grams/cm2, calculated as set forth above, utilizing the structure and operational configuration of the preferred embodiments of the putter head set forth herein would be at least a partial result of the weight of each putter head being primarily, but not exclusively, located in the opposite end portion such as the toe end and heel end which would be true whether or not the floor is incorporated in a specific preferred embodiment of the golf putter head.
Since many modifications, variations and changes in detail can be made to the described preferred embodiment of the invention, it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.
Now that the invention has been described,
This Non-Provisional Utility application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 12/624,910, filed Nov. 24, 2009, now abandoned which is included in its entirety herein and which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/117,522, filed on Nov. 24, 2008, which is incorporated herein in its entirety.
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| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61117522 | Nov 2008 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 12624910 | Nov 2009 | US |
| Child | 13078671 | US |
