Patent Application
20230211217
It is a goal for golfers to reduce the total number of swings needed to complete a round of golf, thus reducing their total score. To achieve that goal, it is generally desirable to for a golfer to have a ball fly a consistent distance when struck by the same golf club and, for some clubs, also to have that ball travel a long distance. For instance, when a golfer slightly mishits a golf ball, the golfer does not want the golf ball to fly a significantly different distance. At the same time, the golfer also does not want to have a significantly reduced overall distance every time the golfer strikes the ball, even when the golfer strikes the ball in the “sweet spot” of the golf club. Additionally, it is also preferable for a golf club head to produce a pleasant sound to the golfer when the golf club head strikes the golf ball.
One non-limiting embodiment of the present technology includes a golf club head including a striking face, a periphery portion surrounding and extending rearwards from the striking face, a coordinate system centered at a center of gravity of the golf club head, the coordinate system including a y-axis extending vertically, perpendicular to a ground plane when the golf club head is in an address position at prescribed loft and lie, an x-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and parallel to the striking face, extending towards a heel of the golf club head, and a z-axis, perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extending through the striking face, a hosel configured to receive a shaft, the hosel located on a heel side of the golf club head, the heel side located opposite a toe side, wherein the striking face comprises a front surface configured to strike a golf ball and a rear surface opposite the front surface, a damping element including a front surface and a rear surface, the rear surface of the damping element opposite the front surface of the damping element, wherein the front surface of the damping element is in contact with the rear surface of the striking face, wherein the striking face comprises a first portion having a substantially constant thickness, wherein the striking face comprises a plurality of scorelines having the same length, and a center face plane parallel to the y-axis and the z-axis, the center face plane located equidistant from a heel-most extent of the plurality of scorelines and a toe-most extent of the plurality of scorelines, wherein the front surface of the damping element contacts the first portion of the striking face, wherein the front surface of the damping element comprises a geometric center, wherein the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is located toeward of the center face plane, wherein the striking face comprises a second portion, the second portion of the striking face located heelward of the center face plane, the second portion of the striking face having a thickness which tapers from a maximum thickness at a thick end of the second portion to a minimum thickness at a thin end of the second portion, wherein the thick end is located toeward of the thin end.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is located a damping offset distance from the center face plane, wherein the thick end of the second portion of the striking face is located a heel offset distance from the center face plane, and wherein the heel offset distance is greater than the damping offset distance.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the damping offset distance is greater than or equal to 5 mm.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the second portion has a height which tapers from a maximum height at the thick end of the second portion to a minimum height at the thin end of the second portion.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the first portion of the striking face extends above the second portion.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology a chamfer is formed between an upper edge of the second portion and the first portion.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the striking face comprises a third portion, the third portion of the striking face located toeward of the center face plane, the third portion of the striking face having a thickness which tapers from a maximum thickness at a heel end of the third portion to a minimum thickness at a toe end of the third portion.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the periphery portion comprises a sole extending rearwards from a bottom of the striking face, a topline extending rearwards from a top of the striking face, and a back portion extending upwards from the sole and spaced from the striking face, wherein the striking face and the periphery portion form an internal cavity, wherein the damping element resides within the internal cavity, and wherein the rear surface of the damping element is in contact with the periphery portion.
An additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology includes a golf club head including a striking face, a periphery portion surrounding and extending rearwards from the striking face, a coordinate system centered at a center of gravity of the golf club head, the coordinate system including a y-axis extending vertically, perpendicular to a ground plane when the golf club head is in an address position at prescribed loft and lie, an x-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and parallel to the striking face, extending towards a heel of the golf club head, and a z-axis, perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extending through the striking face, a hosel configured to receive a shaft, the hosel located on a heel side of the golf club head, the heel side located opposite a toe side, wherein the striking face comprises a front surface configured to strike a golf ball and a rear surface opposite the front surface, a damping element including a front surface and a rear surface, the rear surface of the damping element opposite the front surface of the damping element, wherein the front surface of the damping element is in contact with the rear surface of the striking face, wherein the striking face comprises a first portion having a substantially constant thickness, wherein the striking face comprises a plurality of scorelines having the same length, and a center face plane parallel to the y-axis and the z-axis, the center face plane located equidistant from a heel-most extent of the plurality of scorelines and a toe-most extent of the plurality of scorelines, wherein the front surface of the damping element contacts the first portion of the striking face, wherein the front surface of the damping element comprises a geometric center, wherein the striking face comprises a second portion, the second portion of the striking face located heelward of the center face plane, the second portion of the striking face having a thickness which tapers from a maximum thickness at a thick end of the second portion to a minimum thickness at a thin end of the second portion, wherein the thick end is located toeward of the thin end, wherein the second portion has a height which tapers from a maximum height at the thick end of the second portion to a minimum height at the thin end of the second portion.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is located toeward of the center face plane.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is located a damping offset distance from the center face plane, wherein the thick end of the second portion of the striking face is located a heel offset distance from the center face plane, and wherein the heel offset distance is greater than the damping offset distance.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the damping offset distance is greater than or equal to 5 mm.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the periphery portion comprises a sole extending rearwards from a bottom of the striking face, a topline extending rearwards from a top of the striking face, and a back portion extending upwards from the sole and spaced from the striking face, wherein the striking face and the periphery portion form an internal cavity, wherein the damping element resides within the internal cavity, and wherein the rear surface of the damping element is in contact with the periphery portion.
An additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology includes a golf club head including a striking face, a periphery portion surrounding and extending rearwards from the striking face, a coordinate system centered at a center of gravity of the golf club head, the coordinate system including a y-axis extending vertically, perpendicular to a ground plane when the golf club head is in an address position at prescribed loft and lie, an x-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and parallel to the striking face, extending towards a heel of the golf club head, and a z-axis, perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extending through the striking face, a hosel configured to receive a shaft, the hosel located on a heel side of the golf club head, the heel side located opposite a toe side, wherein the striking face comprises a front surface configured to strike a golf ball and a rear surface opposite the front surface, wherein the striking face comprises a first portion having a substantially constant thickness, wherein the striking face comprises a plurality of scorelines having the same length, and a center face plane parallel to the y-axis and the z-axis, the center face plane located equidistant from a heel-most extent of the plurality of scorelines and a toe-most extent of the plurality of scorelines, wherein the striking face comprises a second portion, the second portion of the striking face located heelward of the center face plane, the second portion of the striking face having a thickness which tapers from a maximum thickness at a thick end of the second portion to a minimum thickness at a thin end of the second portion, wherein the thick end is located toeward of the thin end, wherein the striking face comprises a third portion, the third portion of the striking face located toeward of the center face plane, the third portion of the striking face having a thickness which tapers from a maximum thickness at a heel end of the third portion to a minimum thickness at a toe end of the third portion.
An additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology includes a damping element including a front surface and a rear surface, the rear surface of the damping element opposite the front surface of the damping element, wherein the front surface of the damping element is in contact with the rear surface of the striking face, wherein the front surface of the damping element contacts the first portion of the striking face, wherein the front surface of the damping element comprises a geometric center, wherein the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is located toeward of the center face plane,
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is located a damping offset distance from the center face plane, wherein the thick end of the second portion of the striking face is located a heel offset distance from the center face plane, and wherein the heel offset distance is greater than the damping offset distance and wherein the damping offset distance is greater than or equal to 5 mm.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the second portion has a height which tapers from a maximum height at the thick end of the second portion to a minimum height at the thin end of the second portion.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the first portion of the striking face extends above the second portion.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology a chamfer is formed between an upper edge of the second portion and the first portion.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the periphery portion comprises a sole extending rearwards from a bottom of the striking face, a topline extending rearwards from a top of the striking face, and a back portion extending upwards from the sole and spaced from the striking face, wherein the striking face and the periphery portion form an internal cavity, wherein the damping element resides within the internal cavity, and wherein the rear surface of the damping element is in contact with the periphery portion.
One non-limiting embodiment of the present technology includes a golf club head including a striking face, a periphery portion surrounding and extending rearwards from the striking face, a coordinate system centered at a center of gravity of the golf club head, the coordinate system including a y-axis extending vertically, perpendicular to a ground plane when the golf club head is in an address position at prescribed loft and lie, an x-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and parallel to the striking face, extending towards a heel of the golf club head, and a z-axis, perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extending through the striking face, a hosel configured to receive a shaft, the hosel located on a heel side of the golf club head, the heel side located opposite a toe side, wherein the striking face comprises a front surface configured to strike a golf ball and a rear surface opposite the front surface, a damping element including a front surface and a rear surface, the rear surface of the damping element opposite the front surface of the damping element, wherein the front surface of the damping element is in contact with the rear surface of the striking face, wherein the striking face comprises a first portion having a substantially constant thickness, wherein the striking face comprises a plurality of scorelines having the same length, and a center face plane parallel to the y-axis and the z-axis, the center face plane located equidistant from a heel-most extent of the plurality of scorelines and a toe-most extent of the plurality of scorelines, wherein the front surface of the damping element contacts the first portion of the striking face, wherein the front surface of the damping element comprises a geometric center.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is aligned with the center face plane.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is located a damping offset distance heelward from the center face plane of 5 mm or less.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is located a damping offset distance toeward from the center face plane of 5 mm or less.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the first portion of the striking face has a thickness greater than 1.5 mm and less than 2.5 mm.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the golf club head further comprises a shelf extending inward from the periphery portion, a back cover attached to the shelf to enclose a cavity in the golf club head, and a back cavity bridge which extends across the cavity from a topline region of the shelf to a toe region of the shelf.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the golf club head further comprises a shelf extending inward from the periphery portion, and a back cover attached to the shelf to enclose a cavity in the golf club head, wherein the shelf includes a protruding section which spans the cavity from a topline region of the shelf to a lower toe region of the shelf.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the golf club head further comprises a shelf extending inward from the periphery portion, and a back cover attached to the shelf to enclose a cavity in the golf club head, wherein the back cover includes a thermoset material.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the rear surface of the striking face includes a thermoset material.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the thermoset material is applied to the rear surface of the striking face in an uncured state, wherein the thermoset material subsequently cures with a thickness between 0.1 mm and 4.0 mm.
In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology the thermoset material includes a filler material.
An additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology includes a golf club head including a striking face; a back portion behind the striking face extending from a topline to a sole; a hosel configured to receive a shaft, the hosel located on a heel side of the golf club head, the heel side located opposite a toe side; a coordinate system centered at a center of gravity of the golf club head, the coordinate system including a y-axis extending vertically, perpendicular to a ground plane when the golf club head is in an address position at a prescribed loft and lie, an x-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and parallel to the striking face, extending towards the heel side of the golf club head, and a z-axis, perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extending through the striking face; wherein the striking face includes a front surface configured to strike a golf ball and a rear surface opposite the front surface; wherein the back portion includes a shelf recessed into the back portion; and wherein the shelf includes a protruding section having a width greater than a substantial portion of the shelf.
An additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology includes a golf club head including: a striking face; a back portion behind the striking face extending from a topline to a sole; a back cover attached to the back portion to enclose a cavity in the golf club head; a hosel configured to receive a shaft, the hosel located on a heel side of the golf club head, the heel side located opposite a toe side; a coordinate system centered at a center of gravity of the golf club head, the coordinate system including a y-axis extending vertically, perpendicular to a ground plane when the golf club head is in an address position at a prescribed loft and lie, an x-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and parallel to the striking face, extending towards the heel side of the golf club head, and a z-axis, perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extending through the striking face; wherein the striking face includes a front surface configured to strike a golf ball and a rear surface opposite the front surface; wherein the back cover includes an inside perimeter portion bonded to a shelf on the back portion; and wherein the inside perimeter portion includes a plurality of protrusions.
An additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology includes a golf club head including: a striking face including a front surface configured to strike a golf ball and a rear surface opposite the front surface; a back portion behind the striking face extending from a topline to a sole; a back cover attached to the back portion to enclose a cavity in the golf club head; a hosel configured to receive a shaft, the hosel located on a heel side of the golf club head, the heel side located opposite a toe side; a support arm attached to the back portion and spanning at least a portion of the cavity; a damping element positioned between the support arm and the rear surface of the striking face; a coordinate system centered at a center of gravity of the golf club head, the coordinate system including a y-axis extending vertically, perpendicular to a ground plane when the golf club head is in an address position at a prescribed loft and lie, an x-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and parallel to the striking face, extending towards the heel side of the golf club head, and a z-axis, perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extending through the striking face; wherein a section of the golf club head beginning at the striking face and moving rearwards along an axis parallel to the z-axis includes a series of materials including a first material, followed by a second material, followed by a third material, followed by a fourth material, followed by a fifth material.
An additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology includes a golf club head including: a striking face including a front surface configured to strike a golf ball and a rear surface opposite the front surface; a back portion behind the striking face extending from a topline to a sole; a back cover attached to the back portion to enclose a cavity in the golf club head; a hosel configured to receive a shaft, the hosel located on a heel side of the golf club head, the heel side located opposite a toe side; a support arm attached to the back portion and spanning at least a portion of the cavity; a coordinate system centered at a center of gravity of the golf club head, the coordinate system including a y-axis extending vertically, perpendicular to a ground plane when the golf club head is in an address position at a prescribed loft and lie, an x-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and parallel to the striking face, extending towards the heel side of the golf club head, and a z-axis, perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extending through the striking face; wherein the back cover is attached to a shelf on the back portion; and wherein the back cover is attached to the support arm using a bonding element.
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.
Non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples are described with reference to the following Figures.
The technologies described herein contemplate an iron-type golf club head that incorporates an elastomer element to promote more uniform ball speed across the striking face of the golf club. Traditional thin-faced iron-type golf clubs generally produce less uniform launch velocities across the striking face due to increased compliance at the geometric center of the striking face. For example, when a golf club strikes a golf ball, the striking face of the club deflects and then springs forward, accelerating the golf ball off the striking face. While such a design may lead to large flight distances for a golf ball when struck in the center of the face, any off-center strike of golf ball causes significant losses in flight distance of the golf ball. In comparison, an extremely thick face causes more uniform ball flight regardless of impact location, but a significant loss in launch velocities. The present technology incorporates an elastomer element between a back portion of the hollow iron and the rear surface of the striking face. By including the elastomer element, the magnitude of the launch velocity may be reduced for strikes at the center of the face while improving uniformity of launch velocities across the striking face. In some examples, the compression of the elastomer element between the back portion and the striking face may also be adjustable to allow for a golfer or golf club fitting professional to alter the deflection of the striking face when striking a golf ball.
A front portion 103 of the elastomer element 102 contacts the rear surface 119 of the striking face 118. The front portion 103 of the elastomer element 102 may be held in place on the rear surface 119 of the striking face 118 by a securing structure, such as flange 110. The flange 110 protrudes from the rear surface 119 of the striking face 118 into the cavity 120. The flange 110 receives the front portion 103 of the elastomer element 102 to substantially prevent the elastomer element 102 from sliding along the rear surface 119 of the striking face 118. The flange 110 may partially or completely surround the front portion 103 of the elastomer element 102. Similar to the cradle 108, the flange 110 may be shaped to match the shape of the front portion 103 of the elastomer element 102 such that the surface of the front portion 103 of the elastomer element 102 is in contact with the interior surfaces of the flange 110. The flange 110 may be welded or otherwise attached to the rear surface 119 of the striking face 118. The flange 110 may also be cast or forged during the formation of the striking face 118. For instance, where the striking face 118 is a face insert, the flange 110 may be incorporated during the casting or forging process to make the face insert. In another example, the flange 110 and the striking face 118 may be machined from a thicker face plate. Alternative securing structures other than the flange 110 may also be used. For instance, two or more posts may be included on rear surface 119 of the striking face 118 around the perimeter of the front portion 103 of the elastomer element 102. As another example, an adhesive may be used to secure the elastomer element 102 to the rear surface 119 of the striking face 118. In other embodiments, no securing structure is utilized and the elastomer element 102 is generally held in place due to the compression of the elastomer element 102 between the cradle 108 and the rear surface 119 of the striking face 118.
In the example depicted in
The elasticity of the elastomer element 102 also affects the deflection of the striking face 118. For instance, a material with a lower elastic modulus allows for further deflection of the striking face 118, providing for higher maximum ball speeds but less uniformity of ball speeds. In contrast, a material with a higher elastic modulus further prevents deflection of the striking face 118, providing for lower maximum ball speeds but more uniformity of ball speeds. Different types of materials are discussed in further detail below with reference to Tables 2-3.
The golf club head 100 also includes a sole 105 having a sole channel 104 in between a front sole portion 114 and a rear sole portion 116. The sole channel 104 extends along the sole 105 of the golf club head 100 from a point near the heel to a point near the toe thereof. While depicted as being a hollow channel, the sole channel 104 may be filled or spanned by a plastic, rubber, polymer, or other material to prevent debris from entering the cavity 120. The sole channel 104 allows for additional deflection of the lower portion of the striking face 118. By allowing for further deflection of the lower portion of the striking face 118, increased ball speeds are achieved from ball strikes at lower portions of the striking face 118, such as ball strikes off the turf. Accordingly, the elastomer element 102 and the sole channel 104 in combination with one another provide for increased flight distance of a golf ball for turf strikes along with more uniform ball speeds across the striking face 118.
The golf club head 300 also includes an adjustment mechanism. The adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust the compression of the elastomer element 302 against the rear surface 319 of the striking face 318. In the embodiment depicted in
A higher compression of the elastomer element 302 against the rear surface 319 of the striking face 318 further restricts the deflection of the striking face 318. In turn, further restriction of the deflection causes more uniform ball speeds across the striking face 318. However, the restriction on deflection also lowers the maximum ball speed from the center of the striking face 318. By making the compression of the elastomer element 302 adjustable with the adjustment mechanism, the golfer or a golf-club-fitting professional may adjust the compression to fit the particular needs of the golfer. For example, a golfer that desires further maximum distance, but does not need uniform ball speed across the striking face 318, can reduce the initial set compression of the elastomer element 302 by loosening the threaded element 330. In contrast, a golfer that desires uniform ball speed across the striking face 318 can tighten the threaded element 330 to increase the initial set compression of the elastomer element 302.
While the adjustment mechanism is depicted as including a threaded element 330 and a threaded through-hole in
The golf club head 300 also includes a sole channel 304 between a front sole portion 314 and a rear sole portion 316, similar to the sole channel 104 discussed above with reference to
The golf club head 300 may also be created or sold as a kit. In the example depicted where the adjustment mechanism is a threaded element 330, such as a screw, the kit may include a plurality of threaded elements 330. Each of the threaded elements 330 may have a different weight, such that the golfer can select the desired weight. For example, one golfer may prefer an overall lighter weight for the head of an iron, while another golfer may prefer a heavier weight. The plurality of threaded elements 330 may also each have different weight distributions. For instance, different threaded elements 330 may be configured so as to distribute, as desired, the weight of each threaded element 330 along a length thereof. The plurality of threaded elements 330 may also have differing lengths. By having differing lengths, each threaded elements 330 may have a maximum compression that it can apply to the elastomer element 302. For instance, a shorter threaded elements 330 may not be able to apply as much force onto the elastomer element 302 as a longer threaded elements 330, depending on the configuration of the adjustment receiver 306. The kit may also include a torque wrench for installing the threaded elements 330 into the adjustment receiver 306. The torque wrench may include preset settings corresponding to different compression or performance levels.
The tip of the screw 430 is in contact with a cradle 408A that holds a rear portion of the elastomer element 402. As the screw 430 is turned, the lateral movement of the screw 430 causes the cradle 408A to move towards or away from the striking face 418. Accordingly, in some examples, the screw 430 extends substantially orthogonal to the rear surface 419 of the striking face 418. Because the cradle 408A holds the rear portion of the elastomer element 402, movement of the cradle 408A causes a change in the compression of the elastomer element 402 against the rear surface 419 of the striking face 418. As such, the compression of the elastomer element 402 may be adjusted by turning the screw 430 via screw drive 432, similar to manipulation of the threaded element 330 in golf club head 300 depicted in
The size of the cradle 408C may be selected based on the desired ball speed properties. For instance, the cradle 408C may encompass approximately 25% or more of the volume of the elastomer element 402, as shown in
The connection between the cradle 408C and the adjustment driver 430 can also be seen more clearly in
While the golf club heads 400A and 400C are depicted with a continuous sole 414 rather than a sole channel like the golf club head 300 of
Simulated results of different types of golf club heads further demonstrate ball speed uniformity across the face of the golf club heads including an elastomer element. Table 1 indicates ball speed retention across the face of a golf club head for several different example golf club heads. Example 1 is a baseline hollow iron having a 2.1 mm face thickness with a sole channel. Example 2 is a hollow iron with a 2.1 mm face with a rigid rod extending from the back portion to the striking face, also including a sole channel. Example 3 is a hollow iron with a striking face having a thick center (6.1 mm) and a thin perimeter (2.1 mm), also having a sole channel. Example 4 is a golf club head having an elastomer element similar to golf club head 100 depicted in
From the results in Table 1, the golf club head with the elastomer (Example 4) displays a relatively high ball speed from the center of the face, while also providing a reduced loss of ball speed from strikes near the toe or the heel of the golf club.
In addition, as mentioned above, the type of material utilized for any of the elastomer elements discussed herein has an effect on the displacement of the striking face. For instance, an elastomer element with a greater elastic modulus will resist compression and thus deflection of the striking face, leading to lower ball speeds. For example, for a golf club head similar to golf club head 400A, Table 2 indicates ball speeds achieved from using materials with different elasticity properties. All ball speeds were the result of strikes at the center of the face.
From the results in Table 2, a selection of material for the elastomer element can be used to fine tune the performance of the golf club. Any of the materials listed in Table 2 are acceptable for use in forming an elastomer element to be used in the present technology.
The different types of materials also have effect on the ball speed retention across the striking face. For example, for a golf club head similar to golf club head 400A, Table 3 indicates ball speeds achieved across the striking face from heel to toe for the different materials used as the elastomer element. The materials referenced in Table 3 are the same materials from Table 2. All speeds in Table 3 are in mph.
From the results in Table 3, materials having a higher elastic modulus provide for better ball speed retention across the striking face, but lose maximum ball speed for impacts at the center of the face. For some applications, a range of elastic moduli for the elastomer element from about 4 to about 15 GPa may be used. In other applications, a range of elastic moduli for the elastomer element from about 1 to about 40 or about 50 GPa may be used.
As mentioned above with reference to
San Diego Plastics, Inc. of National City, Calif. offers several plastics having elastic moduli ranging from 2.6 GPa to 13 GPa that would all be acceptable for use. The plastics also have yield strengths that are also acceptable for use in the golf club heads discussed herein. Table 4 lists several materials offered by San Diego Plastics and their respective elastic modulus and yield strength values.
The inclusion of an elastomer element also provide benefits in durability for the club face by reducing stress values displayed by the striking face upon impact with a golf ball.
As illustrated in
An elastomer element 602 is disposed between the striking face 618 and the back portion 612. The striking face 618 includes a rear surface 619. The front portion 603 of the elastomer element 602 contacts the rear surface 619 of the striking face 618. As illustrated in
The striking face 618 includes a striking face area 652, which is defined as the area inside the striking face perimeter 650 as illustrated in
A plurality of golf club heads much like golf club head 600 described herein can be included in a set, each golf club head having a different loft α. Each golf club head can also have additional varying characteristics which may include, for example, MOI-Y, Striking Face Area, Area of Supported Region, and the Unsupported Face Percentage. The Unsupported Face Percentage is calculated by dividing the Area of Supported Region by the Striking Face Area and multiplying by 100% and subtracting it from 100%. An example of one set of iron type golf club heads is included in Table 5 below. The set in Table 5 includes the following lofts: 21, 24, 27, and 30. Other sets may include a greater number of golf club heads and/or a wider range of loft α values, or a smaller number of golf club heads and/or a smaller range of loft α values. Additionally, a set may include one or more golf club heads which include an elastomer element and one or more golf club heads which do not include an elastomer element.
An example of an additional embodiment of set of iron type golf club heads is included in Table 6 below.
If all other characteristics are held constant, a larger the MOI-Y value increases the ball speed of off-center hits. For clubs with a smaller MOI-Y, the decrease in off-center ball speed can be mitigated with a greater unsupported face percentage. By supporting a smaller percentage of the face, more of the face is able to flex during impact, increasing off-center ball speed. Thus, for the inventive golf club set described in Table 5 above, the MOI-Y increases through the set as loft α increases and the unsupported face percentage decreases through the set as loft α increases. This relationship creates consistent off-center ball speeds through a set of golf clubs.
A set of golf clubs can include a first golf club head with a loft greater than or equal to 20 degrees and less than or equal to 24 degrees and a second golf club head with a loft greater than or equal to 28 degrees and less than or equal to 32 degrees. In one embodiment, the set can be configured so that the first golf club head has a larger unsupported face percentage than the second golf club head and the first golf club head has a lower MOI-Y than the second golf club head.
More particular characteristics of embodiments described herein are described below. In some embodiments, the area of the supported region can be greater than 30 millimeters2. In some embodiments, the area of the supported region can be greater than 40 millimeters2. In some embodiments, the area of the supported region can be greater than 60 millimeters2. In some embodiments, the area of the supported region can be greater than 65 millimeters2. In some embodiments, the area of the supported region can be greater than 70 millimeters2. In some embodiments, the area of the supported region can be greater than 73 millimeters2.
In some embodiments, the area of the supported region can be less than 140 millimeters2. In some embodiments, the area of the supported region can be less than 130 millimeters2. In some embodiments, the area of the supported region can be less than 120 millimeters2. In some embodiments, the area of the supported region can be less than 110 millimeters2. In some embodiments, the area of the supported region can be less than 100 millimeters2. In some embodiments, the area of the supported region can be less than 90 millimeters2. In some embodiments, the area of the supported region can be less than 85 millimeters2. In some embodiments, the area of the supported region can be less than 80 millimeters2. In some embodiments, the area of the supported region can be less than 75 millimeters2.
In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is greater than 70%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is greater than 75%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is greater than 80%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is greater than 85%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is greater than 90%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is greater than 95%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is greater than 96%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is greater than 97%.
In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 99.75%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 99.50%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 99.25%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 99.00%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 98.75%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 98.50%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 98.25%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 98.00%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 97.75%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 97.50%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 97.25%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 97.00%.
The golf club head 700 includes a deformable member 702 disposed between the striking face 718 and the back portion 712. In one embodiment, the deformable member 702 is formed from an elastomer. The front portion 703 of the elastomer element 702 contacts the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718. The striking face 718 includes a supported region 742, the portion of the rear surface 719 supported by the elastomer element 702, which is defined as the area inside the supported region perimeter 740 defined by the outer extent of the front portion 703 of the elastomer element 702 in contact with the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718. The supported region 742 wouldn't normally be visible from the front of the golf club head 700 but was added in
The golf club head 700 illustrated in
The back portion 712 includes a cantilever support arm 762 affixed to the periphery portion 701. The support arm 762 can include a cradle 708 configured to hold the elastomer element 702 in place. The cradle 708 can include a lip 709 configured to locate the elastomer element 702 on the cradle 708 and relative to the striking face 718. The lip 709 can surround a portion of the elastomer element 702. Additionally, an adhesive can be used between the elastomer element 702 and the cradle 708 to secure the elastomer element 702 to the cradle 708.
The support arm 762 extends from the weight pad 710 located at the intersection of the sole 705 and the toe 706 of the periphery portion 701 towards the supported region 742. The support arm 762 is oriented substantially parallel to the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718. The support arm 762 can include a rib 764 to increase the stiffness of the support arm 762. The rib 764 can extend rearwards from the support arm 762 substantially perpendicularly to the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718. One benefit of a cantilever support arm 762 is it provides a lower CG height than an alternative beam design, such as the embodiment illustrated in
In order to provide a low CG height the support arm 762 is cantilevered which means it is only affixed to the periphery portion 701 at one end of the support arm 762. The support arm is designed such that the distance H between the highest portion of the support arm 762 and the ground plane GP when the golf club head 700 is in an address position, as illustrated in
In one embodiment, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of less than or equal to 25 mm. In an additional embodiment, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of less than or equal to 24 mm. In an additional embodiment, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of less than or equal to 23 mm. In an additional embodiment, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of less than or equal to 22 mm. In an additional embodiment, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of less than or equal to 21 mm. In an additional embodiment, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of less than or equal to 20 mm. In an additional embodiment, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of less than or equal to 19 mm. In an additional embodiment, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of less than or equal to 18 mm.
Another advantage to the illustrated support arm 762 is it provides a high MOI-Y due to its orientation. By concentrating mass at the heel end and toe end of the golf club head 700 the MOI-Y can be increased. The support arm 762 is angled to concentrate much of its mass near the toe 706, increasing MOI-Y compared with a back portion located more centrally on the golf club head 700. In one embodiment, the MOI-Y of the golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 200 kg-mm2. In an additional embodiment, the MOI-Y of the golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 210 kg-mm2. In an additional embodiment, the MOI-Y of the golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 220 kg-mm2. In an additional embodiment, the MOI-Y of the golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 230 kg-mm2. In an additional embodiment, the MOI-Y of the golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 240 kg-mm2. In an additional embodiment, the MOI-Y of the golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 250 kg-mm2. In an additional embodiment, the MOI-Y of the golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 260 kg-mm2. In an additional embodiment, the MOI-Y of the golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 270 kg-mm2.
The support arm 762 can include an arm centerline CL, as illustrated in
The support arm 762 can have an arm width AW measured perpendicularly to the arm centerline CL and parallel to the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718. The arm width AW can vary along the length of the support arm 762. In one embodiment the arm width of at least one portion of the support arm is greater than or equal to 6 mm. In an additional embodiment the arm width of at least one portion of the support arm is greater than or equal to 8 mm. In an additional embodiment the arm width of at least one portion of the support arm is greater than or equal to 10 mm.
The support arm 762 can have an arm thickness AT measured perpendicular to the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718. The arm thickness AT can vary along the length of the support arm 762. In one embodiment the arm thickness AT of at least one portion of the support arm is greater than or equal to 2 mm. In an additional embodiment the arm thickness AT of at least one portion of the support arm is greater than or equal to 3 mm. In an additional embodiment the arm thickness AT of at least one portion of the support arm is greater than or equal to 4 mm. In an additional embodiment the arm thickness AT of at least one portion of the support arm is greater than or equal to 5 mm. In an additional embodiment the arm thickness AT of at least one portion of the support arm is greater than or equal to 6 mm.
The rib 764 of the support arm 762 can have a rib width RW measured perpendicularly to the arm centerline CL and parallel to the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718. The rib width RW can vary along the length of the rib. In one embodiment, the rib width RW of at least a portion of the rib is greater than or equal to 1 mm. In an additional embodiment, the rib width RW of at least a portion of the rib is greater than or equal to 2 mm. In an additional embodiment, the rib width RW of at least a portion of the rib is greater than or equal to 3 mm. In an additional embodiment, the rib width RW of at least a portion of the rib is greater than or equal to 4 mm.
The rib 764 of the support arm 762 can have a rib thickness RT measured perpendicular to the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718. The rib thickness RT can vary along the length of the rib. In one embodiment, the rib thickness RT of at least a portion of the rib is greater than or equal to 2 mm. In an additional embodiment, the rib thickness RT of at least a portion of the rib is greater than or equal to 3 mm. In an additional embodiment, the rib thickness RT of at least a portion of the rib is greater than or equal to 4 mm. In an additional embodiment, the rib thickness RT of at least a portion of the rib is greater than or equal to 5 mm. In an additional embodiment, the rib thickness RT of at least a portion of the rib is greater than or equal to 6 mm.
The supported region 742, as illustrated in
The striking face length SFL is measured from the striking face heel reference plane 759 to the toe-most extent of the striking face 718, measured parallel to the ground plane GP and parallel to the striking face 718 with the golf club head 700 in an address position. In one embodiment, the striking face length SFL is greater than or equal to 60 mm. In an additional embodiment, the striking face length SFL is greater than or equal to 65 mm. In an additional embodiment, the striking face length SFL is greater than or equal to 70 mm. In an additional embodiment, the striking face length SFL is greater than or equal to 71 mm. In an additional embodiment, the striking face length SFL is greater than or equal to 72 mm. In an additional embodiment, the striking face length SFL is greater than or equal to 73 mm. In an additional embodiment, the striking face length SFL is greater than or equal to 74 mm.
In one embodiment, the supported region offset ratio, defined as the supported region offset length SROL divided by the striking face length SFL multiplied by 100%, is greater than or equal to 40%. In an additional embodiment, the supported region offset ratio is greater than or equal to 41%. In an additional embodiment, the supported region offset ratio is greater than or equal to 42%. In an additional embodiment, the supported region offset ratio is greater than or equal to 43%. In an additional embodiment, the supported region offset ratio is greater than or equal to 44%. In an additional embodiment, the supported region offset ratio is greater than or equal to 45%. In an additional embodiment, the supported region offset ratio is greater than or equal to 46%. In an additional embodiment, the supported region offset ratio is greater than or equal to 47%. In an additional embodiment, the supported region offset ratio is greater than or equal to 48%. In an additional embodiment, the supported region offset ratio is greater than or equal to 49%. In an additional embodiment, the supported region offset ratio is greater than or equal to 50%. In an additional embodiment, the supported region offset ratio is greater than or equal to 51%.
An additional benefit of incorporating a supported region 742 is the ability to utilize a thin striking face. In the illustrated embodiments, the striking face 718 has a constant thickness. In other embodiments, the striking face may have a variable thickness. In one embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is less than or equal to 2.5 mm. In an additional embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is less than or equal to 2.4 mm. In an additional embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is less than or equal to 2.3 mm. In an additional embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is less than or equal to 2.2 mm. In an additional embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is less than or equal to 2.1 mm. In an additional embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is less than or equal to 2.0 mm. In an additional embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is less than or equal to 1.9 mm. In an additional embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is less than or equal to 1.8 mm. In an additional embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is less than or equal to 1.7 mm. In an additional embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is less than or equal to 1.6 mm. In an additional embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is less than or equal to 1.5 mm. In an additional embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is less than or equal to 1.4 mm.
The enlarged front portion 703 and thus enlarged supported region 742 offered by the embodiments of the elastomer elements 702 illustrated in
In one embodiment, the area of the supported region can be greater than 75 millimeters2. In an additional embodiment, the area of the supported region can be greater than 100 millimeters2. In an additional embodiment, the area of the supported region can be greater than 125 millimeters2. In an additional embodiment, the area of the supported region can be greater than 150 millimeters2. In an additional embodiment, the area of the supported region can be greater than 175 millimeters2. In an additional embodiment, the area of the supported region can be greater than 200 millimeters2. In an additional embodiment, the area of the supported region can be greater than 225 millimeters2. In an additional embodiment, the area of the supported region can be greater than 250 millimeters2. In an additional embodiment, the area of the supported region can be greater than 255 millimeters2. In an additional embodiment, the area of the supported region can be greater than 260 millimeters2. In an additional embodiment, the area of the supported region can be greater than 50 millimeters2 and less than 1000 millimeters2. In an additional embodiment, the area of the supported region can be greater than 100 millimeters2 and less than 1000 millimeters2. In an additional embodiment, the area of the supported region can be greater than 150 millimeters2 and less than 1000 millimeters2. In an additional embodiment, the area of the supported region can be greater than 200 millimeters2 and less than 1000 millimeters2. In an additional embodiment, the area of the supported region can be greater than 250 millimeters2 and less than 1000 millimeters2.
In one embodiment, the ratio of the front diameter FD divided by the rear diameter RD is greater than 1.2. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the front diameter FD divided by the rear diameter RD is greater than 1.4. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the front diameter FD divided by the rear diameter RD is greater than 1.6. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the front diameter FD divided by the rear diameter RD is greater than 1.8. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the front diameter FD divided by the rear diameter RD is greater than 2.0. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the front diameter FD divided by the rear diameter RD is greater than 3.0. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the front diameter FD divided by the rear diameter RD is greater than 4.0.
In one embodiment, the area of the supported region 742 is greater than the area of the rear support region 747. In one embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear supported region 747 is greater than 1.2. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear supported region 747 is greater than 1.4. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear supported region 747 is greater than 1.6. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear supported region 747 is greater than 1.8. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear supported region 747 is greater than 2.0. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear supported region 747 is greater than 2.5. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear supported region 747 is greater than 3.0. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear supported region 747 is greater than 3.5. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear supported region 747 is greater than 4.0. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear supported region 747 is greater than 5.0. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear supported region 747 is greater than 6.0. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear supported region 747 is greater than 7.0. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear supported region 747 is greater than 8.0. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear supported region 747 is greater than 9.0. In an additional embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear supported region 747 is greater than 10.0.
The contact energy absorption factor is defined as the ratio of the front diameter FD divided by the diameter of a golf ball, which is approximately 42.75 mm. In one embodiment, the contact energy absorption factor is greater than 0.1. In an additional embodiment, the contact energy absorption factor is greater than 0.2. In an additional embodiment, the contact energy absorption factor is greater than 0.3. In an additional embodiment, the contact energy absorption factor is greater than 0.4. In an additional embodiment, the contact energy absorption factor is greater than 0.5. In an additional embodiment, the contact energy absorption factor is greater than 0.6. In an additional embodiment, the contact energy absorption factor is greater than 0.7. In an additional embodiment, the contact energy absorption factor is greater than 0.8. In an additional embodiment, the contact energy absorption factor is greater than 0.9. In an additional embodiment, the contact energy absorption factor is greater than 1.0. In an additional embodiment, the contact energy absorption factor is less than 0.2. In an additional embodiment, the contact energy absorption factor is less than 0.3. In an additional embodiment, the contact energy absorption factor is less than 0.4. In an additional embodiment, the contact energy absorption factor is less than 0.5. In an additional embodiment, the contact energy absorption factor is less than 0.6. In an additional embodiment, the contact energy absorption factor is less than 0.7. In an additional embodiment, the contact energy absorption factor is less than 0.8. In an additional embodiment, the contact energy absorption factor is less than 0.9. In an additional embodiment, the contact energy absorption factor is less than 1.0.
In additional embodiments, the elastomer elements 702 may not be circular. They may have additional shapes which may include square, rectangular, octagonal, etc.
Identical golf club heads with different elastomer elements were subjected to acoustic testing to determine the effectiveness of different embodiments of elastomer elements. The testing was performed with each club head striking a Titleist ProV1 golf ball with a club head speed at impact of approximately 95 miles per hour. The acoustic qualities of the embodiments illustrated in
As illustrated in
Additionally, the sound power generated by the golf club head utilizing the cylindrical elastomer element embodiment illustrated in
Any of these embodiments of elastomer element 702 described herein can be flipped, such that the rear portion 744 abuts the rear surface of the striking face rather than the front portion. Additionally, the embodiments illustrated in
As illustrated in
The golf club head 800 includes an adjustment driver 830 much like the adjustment driver 330 described earlier and illustrated in
The golf club head 800 can include an adjustment receiver 890, much like the adjustment receiver 306 illustrated in
As illustrated in
Much like golf club head 800, the golf club head 900 includes an adjustment driver 830 configured to retain the first deformable member 702A. The front portion 703A of the first deformable member 702A contacts the rear surface 919 of the striking face 918. The back portion 912 of the golf club head 900 includes a back cover M. In the illustrated embodiment, the back cover 913 includes a recess 915 configured to retain the second deformable member 702B such that the front portion 703B of the second deformable member 702B contacts the rear surface 919 of the striking face 918. The back cover 913 also includes an aperture 914 for the adjustment driver 830. In one embodiment, the second deformable member is attached to the back cover 913 with an adhesive. Additionally, the back cover 913 can be attached to the rest of the golf club head 900 with an adhesive, which may include, for example, double sided tape. In one embodiment, the striking face 918 of the golf club head 900 is made from a high density material such as steel, whereas the back cover 913 is made from a low density material, such as plastic, which may include for example, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. In an alternative embodiment, the back cover may also be made of a high density material.
As illustrated in
The first geometric center 743A of the first supported region 742A is located a first supported region offset length SROL 1 toeward from the striking face heel reference plane 959, measured parallel to the ground plane and parallel to the striking face 918 with the golf club head 900 in an address position. The second geometric center 743B of the second supported region 742B is located a second supported region offset length SROL 2 toeward from the striking face heel reference plane 959, measured parallel to the ground plane and parallel to the striking face 918 with the golf club head 900 in an address position.
In a preferred embodiment, SROL 1 is approximately 36.0 mm and SROL 2 is approximately 17.6 mm. In a preferred embodiment SROL 1 is greater than SROL 2. In a preferred embodiment, SROL 1 divided by SROL2 is greater than 1.0. In a preferred embodiment, SROL 1 divided by SROL2 is greater than 1.25. In a preferred embodiment, SROL 1 divided by SROL2 is greater than 1.50. In a preferred embodiment, SROL 1 divided by SROL2 is greater than 1.75. In a preferred embodiment, SROL 1 divided by SROL2 is greater than 2.0. In an alternative embodiment, not illustrated, SROL 2 is greater than SROL 1.
In one embodiment, the first deformable member 702A is made of the same material as the second deformable member 702B and thus has the same hardness. In an additional embodiment, the first deformable member 702A is made of a material which has a greater hardness than the material of the second deformable member 702B. In an alternative embodiment, the material of the first deformable member 702A has a lower modulus than the material of the second deformable member 702B. In one embodiment, the first deformable member 702A has a Shore A 50 durometer and the second deformable member has a Shore A 10 durometer. In one embodiment, the first deformable member 702A has a Shore A durometer greater than 25 and the second deformable member has a Shore A durometer less than 25.
It should be noted that the first deformable member could be housed, structured, or supported similarly to the second deformable member and also the second deformable member could be housed, structured, or supported similarly to the first deformable member. Additionally, the first deformable member and second deformable member could be housed, structured, or supported in any fashion described throughout this disclosure.
Additional embodiments of golf club heads will be described below which incorporate various damping elements, many of them applied to the back surface of the striking face. The damping elements described below can include any of the deformable members or elastomers described herein, including their materials, properties, geometry, and features, as well as the additional details which will be described below. The damping elements help reduce vibrations and improve the sound produced by the golf club head when it strikes a golf ball by making it more pleasing to the golfer's ear.
The golf club head 700 illustrated in
As illustrated in
In addition to the materials disclosed already, the damping elements, and more specifically the second damping element 702D can comprise a damping foam. In one embodiment, the second damping element 702D may be formed separately from the golf club head and subsequently installed. In another embodiment, the second damping element 702D can be co-molded with the golf club head so as to specifically fit the geometry of that particular club. In other embodiments, the second damping element 702D may be specifically chosen or formed to meet the specific geometry of a particular golf club head.
In an alternative embodiment, not illustrated, the first damping element 702A and second damping element 702D may be formed monolithically out of a single piece of material such that a single damping element includes the features of both the first and second damping elements. In yet another embodiment, more than one piece of material may comprise the first and/or second damping element.
The golf club head 700 illustrated in
As illustrated in
The golf club head 700 of
Additionally, each of the embodiments of golf club heads described herein, particularly in reference to
One goal of the damping elements described herein is to dissipate energy of the golf club head after it strikes a golf ball. As the striking face and other portions of the golf club head vibrate, the damping element in contact with those surfaces can dissipate the energy. This can change the sound produced by the golf club head by reducing the loudness and/or duration of the sound produced when the golf club head strikes a golf ball. The damping elements, elastomers, and deformable members described herein can be formed of a viscoelastic material. Tan δ represents the ratio of the viscous to elastic response of a viscoelastic material, which is the energy dissipation potential of the material. The greater Tan δ, the more dissipative the material. More specifically, Tan δ=E″/E′, where E″ is the loss modulus and represents Energy dissipated by the system, and E′ is the storage modulus and represents Energy stored elastically by the system. Tan δ varies depending on temperature and the frequency of vibration. The damping elements described herein are preferably formed of a viscoelastic material which has a peak Tan δ between 3 kHz and 9 kHz within a temperature range of 20° C. to 50° C., and more preferably between 5 kHz and 7 kHz. In some embodiments, the damping elements may be formed of different viscoelastic materials, wherein one damping element has a Tan δ which peaks at a higher frequency than another. In reference to specifically to the golf club head 700 of
The golf club head 1000 includes a striking face 1018 having a rear surface 1019. The golf club head 1000 includes a back portion 1012 configured to support a damping element 1002. The illustrated golf club head 1000 is a hollow body construction and the back portion 1012 covers a substantial portion of the back of the golf club head 1000. The back portion 1012 is located behind the striking face 1018 and extends between the topline 1017 and the sole 1005 from the heel 1004 to the toe 1006 forming a cavity 1020.
As illustrated in
As illustrated in
The exterior portion 1103 of the damping element 1002 can include a flange surface 1107 configured to abut the shelf 1014 of the golf club head 1000. The exterior portion 1103 can also include an outside surface 1108 opposite the flange surface 1107. The outside surface 1108 can be exterior and thus be designed such that it is aesthetically appealing to the golfer and take the place of a conventional medallion. In some embodiments, as illustrated in
As illustrated in
In the illustrated embodiments, the damping portion 1104 and the exterior portion 1103 of the damping element are formed monolithically and of the same material. In other, non-illustrated embodiments, the damping portion 1104 and exterior portion 1103 can be formed of different materials and affixed to one another. The damping portion 1104, and thus in the preferred embodiment, the damping element 1102 in its entirety, can be formed of any of the materials disclosed herein when referring to the damping elements, deformable members, and elastomers. Those materials may also include a silicone with a shore A durometer between approximately 50 and 70, which may also have an approximate compression set of 10%, 70 hours, at 212 degrees F., which may also have a tensile strength of approximately 1400 psi. The damping element 1102 is configured to deform as the striking face 1018 deforms upon impact with a golf ball, similar to the other damping elements, deformable members, and elastomers described herein. As illustrated in
As illustrated in
In one embodiment, the central unsupported area 1016 can be greater than 100 mm2. In an additional embodiment, the central unsupported area 1016 can be greater than 200 mm2. In an additional embodiment, the central unsupported area 1016 can be greater than 300 mm2. In an additional embodiment, the central unsupported area 1016 can be greater than 400 mm2. In an additional embodiment, the central unsupported area 1016 can be greater than 500 mm2. In one embodiment, the supported area 1015 can be less than 300 mm2. In one embodiment, the supported area 1015 can be less than 250 mm2. In an additional embodiment, the supported area 1015 can be less than 200 mm2. In an additional embodiment, the supported area 1015 can be less than 150 mm2. In an additional embodiment, the supported area 1015 can be less than 125 mm2. In an additional embodiment, the supported area 1015 can be less than 100 mm2. In one embodiment, a ratio of the central unsupported area 1016 divided by the supported area 1015 is greater than or equal to 1.0. In an additional embodiment, a ratio of the central unsupported area 1016 divided by the supported area 1015 is greater than or equal to 1.5. In one embodiment, a ratio of the central unsupported area 1016 divided by the supported area 1015 is greater than or equal to 2.0. In one embodiment, a ratio of the central unsupported area 1016 divided by the supported area 1015 is greater than or equal to 2.5. In one embodiment, a ratio of the central unsupported area 1016 divided by the supported area 1015 is greater than or equal to 3.0. In one embodiment, a ratio of the central unsupported area 1016 divided by the supported area 1015 is greater than or equal to 3.5. In one embodiment, a ratio of the central unsupported area 1016 divided by the supported area 1015 is greater than or equal to 4.0. In one embodiment, a ratio of the central unsupported area 1016 divided by the supported area 1015 is greater than or equal to 4.5. In one embodiment, a ratio of the central unsupported area 1016 divided by the supported area 1015 is greater than or equal to 5.0.
In one embodiment, the golf club head can include a third damping element 1130. The third damping element can reside around the top (illustrated in
In one embodiment, the golf club head 1000 includes a fourth damping element 1140. The fourth damping element 1140 can reside within the recess 1106 of the damping element 1102. In one embodiment, the fourth damping element 1140 can comprise hot melt. In another embodiment it could include an elastomer. In another embodiment it could include a rubber. In another embodiment it could include a foam. In another embodiment, the fourth damping element 1140 could be softer and thus have a lower hardness value than the damping element 1002. In one embodiment, the fourth damping element 1140 could be formed of a silicone.
In one embodiment, the golf club head 1000 includes a fifth damping element 1150. The golf club head can include a slot configured to receive the fifth damping element 1150 which is preferably a rubber. In one embodiment the slot can be formed in the back portion 1112 of the golf club head. In another embodiment the slot can be formed in one or more of the following: the back portion 1112, the topline 1007, the toe 1006, the sole 1005.
As illustrated in
The back portion of the golf club head 800 includes an adjustment driver 830. The deformable member 702 is disposed between the striking face 818 and the adjustment driver 830. The adjustment driver 830 is configured to retain the elastomer element 702 between the adjustment driver 830 and the striking face 818, with the front portion 703 of the elastomer element 702 contacting the rear surface 819 of the striking face 818 and the rear portion 744 of the elastomer element 702 contacting the adjustment driver 830.
As illustrated in
As illustrated in
As illustrated in
As illustrated in
One method of utilizing the embodiments described herein is outlined in
While the methods and deformable members 702 described above in reference to
As noted above, the golf club head 700 illustrated in
The golf club head 1300 illustrated in
As illustrated, the first portion 1365 is substantially thicker in a fore-aft direction than it is in the heel-toe direction and the second portion 1366 is substantially thicker in a heel-toe direction than it is in the fore-aft direction. In another embodiment, this could be reversed. In another embodiment, both the first portion 1365 and the second portion 1365 can be substantially thicker in a fore-aft direction than in the heel-toe direction. In another embodiment, both the first portion 1365 and the second portion 1365 can be substantially thicker in a heel-toe direction than it in the fore-aft direction.
The first portion 1465 of the support arm is angled upwards from the heel side 1404 towards the cradle 1408 measured relative to the x-axis. In some embodiments, the first portion 1465 can be angled upwards greater than 5 degrees. In another embodiment, the first portion 1465 can be angled upwards greater than 10 degrees. In another embodiment, the first portion 1465 can be angled upwards greater than 15 degrees. In another embodiment, the first portion 1465 can be angled upwards greater than 20 degrees. In another embodiment, the first portion 1465 can be angled upwards greater than 25 degrees. In another embodiment, the first portion 1465 can be angled upwards greater than 30 degrees. The second portion 1466 of the support arm is angled upwards from the toe side 1406 towards the cradle 1408 measured relative to the x-axis. In some embodiments, the second portion 1466 can be angled upwards greater than 5 degrees. In another embodiment, the second portion 1466 can be angled upwards greater than 10 degrees. In another embodiment, the second portion 1466 can be angled upwards greater than 15 degrees. In another embodiment, the second portion 1466 can be angled upwards greater than 20 degrees. In another embodiment, the second portion 1466 can be angled upwards greater than 25 degrees. In another embodiment, second portion 1466 can be angled upwards greater than 30 degrees.
Golf club head 1300A is substantially similar to the golf club head 1300 illustrated in
As illustrated in
Golf club head 1400A is substantially similar to the golf club head 1400 illustrated in
As in earlier embodiments, the support arm 1462A is configured to support the damping element which is in contact with the rear surface of the striking face. The support arm 1462A includes a cradle 1408A in contact with the damping element. The support arm 1462A also includes a first portion 1465A extending from the cradle 1408A and towards the heel 1404. The support arm 1462A also includes a second portion 1466A extending from the cradle 1408A towards the toe 1406. The first portion 1465A and second portion 1466A can be affixed to the periphery portion 1401. The periphery portion can include support arm receptacles 1469 configured to engage the support arm 1462A. The periphery portion can include apertures 1467B configured to receive a fastener 1468. The support arm can include apertures 1467A configured to receive a fastener 1468. As illustrated, the first portion 1465A and second portion 1466A can be inserted into the support arm receptacles 1469 aligning the supper arm apertures 1467A with the periphery portion apertures 1467B and fasteners 1468 can be installed to secure the support arm 1462A and damping element (not illustrated) to the golf club head 1400A. In some embodiments, the apertures 1467B and support arm receptacles can be formed in a heel side weight member 1410 and toe side weight member 1411. The fastener can be a threaded fastener and one or more of the apertures 1467A, 1467B can include threads to engage the fastener.
Golf club head 1300A and golf club head 1400A include modular support arms 1362A and 1462A respectively, each of which offer advantages to support arms formed together with a golf club head. By securing the support arm to the golf club head, the support arms can be made from a different material of the golf club head which may include, for example, steel, aluminum, titanium, composites, etc. The support arm can be formed of materials of different density and/or different stiffness from the golf club head. The support arm can be manufactured via a variety of manufacturing techniques which may include, for example, casting, forging, stamping, machining, three dimensional printing, etc.
Additionally, a removeable support arm can allow for various damping elements to be installed in the golf club head, fine tuning the golf club head to maximize coefficient of restitution, or fine tuning the acoustic profile of the golf club head when impacting a golf ball.
In one embodiment, the first durometer can be greater than Shore 10A and less than Shore 95A. In an additional embodiment, the first durometer can be greater than Shore 20A and less than Shore 95A. In an additional embodiment, the first durometer can be greater than Shore 30A and less than Shore 95A. In an additional embodiment, the first durometer can be greater than Shore 40A and less than Shore 95A. In an additional embodiment, the first durometer can be greater than Shore 50A and less than Shore 95A. In an additional embodiment, the first durometer can be greater than Shore 60A and less than Shore 95A. In an additional embodiment, the first durometer can be greater than Shore 70A and less than Shore 95A. In an additional embodiment, the first durometer can be greater than Shore 80A and less than Shore 95A. In one embodiment, the first portion 770 is formed from an elastomer.
In one embodiment the second durometer can have a Shore 00 value greater than 10 and less than 100. In an additional embodiment, the second durometer can have a Shore 00 value greater than 20 and less than 100. In an additional embodiment, the second durometer can have a Shore 00 value greater than 30 and less than 100. In an additional embodiment, the second durometer can have a Shore 00 value greater than 40 and less than 100. In an additional embodiment, the second durometer can have a Shore 00 value greater than 50 and less than 100. In an additional embodiment, the second durometer can have a Shore 00 value greater than 60 and less than 100. In an additional embodiment, the second durometer can have a Shore 00 value greater than 70 and less than 100. In an additional embodiment, the second durometer can have a Shore 00 value greater than 80 and less than 100. In an additional embodiment, the second durometer can have an Asker C value greater than 10 and less than 90. In an additional embodiment, the second durometer can have an Asker C value greater than 20 and less than 90. In an additional embodiment, the second durometer can have an Asker C value greater than 30 and less than 90. In an additional embodiment, the second durometer can have an Asker C value greater than 40 and less than 90. In an additional embodiment, the second durometer can have an Asker C value greater than 50 and less than 90. In an additional embodiment, the second durometer can have an Asker C value greater than 60 and less than 90. In one embodiment, the second durometer is less than Shore 20A. In one embodiment, the second portion 780 is formed of a foam.
The golf club head 1500 illustrated in
As illustrated, the first portion 1565 is substantially thicker in a fore-aft direction than it is in the heel-toe direction and the second portion 1566 is substantially thicker in a heel-toe direction than it is in the fore-aft direction. Additionally, the cradle 1508 is thicker in a heel-toe direction than the second portion 1566. In another embodiment, this could be reversed. In another embodiment, both the first portion 1565 and the second portion 1566 can be substantially thicker in a fore-aft direction than in the heel-toe direction. In another embodiment, both the first portion 1565 and the second portion 1566 can be substantially thicker in a heel-toe direction than it in the fore-aft direction. In another embodiment the second portion 1566 could be thicker in a heel-toe direction than the cradle 1508.
As illustrated in
Additionally, as illustrated in
The golf club head 1500 can include a variable face thickness geometry to further promote more uniform ball speed across the striking face of the golf club head.
As illustrated in
As illustrated in
The striking face 1518 can also include a tapered toe portion 1550. The tapered toe portion 1550 extends from a tapered toe portion thick end 1551 adjacent the constant thickness portion 1530 towards a tapered toe portion thin end 1552. In one embodiment the tapered toe portion thin end 1552 is located toeward of the toe-most extent of the full length scorelines 1560. In one embodiment the tapered toe portion thin end 1552 has a boundary which is arcuate in shape, as illustrated in
In one embodiment, the constant thickness portion 1530 of the striking face 1518 has a thickness CT greater than 1.5 mm and less than 2.5 mm. In one embodiment, the constant thickness portion 1530 of the striking face 1518 has a thickness CT greater than 1.7 mm and less than 2.2 mm. In one embodiment the thick end 1541 of the tapered heel portion 1540 has a heel offset HO from the center face plane 1521 that is less than 20 mm and greater than 1 mm. In one embodiment the thick end 1541 of the tapered heel portion 1540 has a heel offset HO from the center face plane 1521 that is less than 15 mm. In one embodiment the thick end 1541 of the tapered heel portion 1540 has a heel offset HO from the center face plane 1521 that is less than 10 mm. In one embodiment the width HW of the tapered heel portion is greater than 5 mm and less than 30 mm. In one embodiment the width HW of the tapered heel portion is greater than 10 mm and less than 25 mm. In one embodiment the width HW of the tapered heel portion is greater than 15 mm and less than 20 mm. In one embodiment the height HH of the thick end 1541 tapered heel portion 1540 is greater than 20 mm and less than 40 mm. In one embodiment the height HH of the thick end 1541 tapered heel portion 1540 is greater than 25 mm and less than 40 mm. In one embodiment the height HH of the thick end 1541 tapered heel portion 1540 is greater than 30 mm and less than 40 mm. In one embodiment the height HH of the tapered heel portion 1540 decreases in a heelward direction. In one embodiment the tapered toe portion 1550 has a toe offset TO from the center face plane 1521 that is less than 40 mm. In one embodiment the tapered toe portion 1550 has a toe offset TO from the center face plane 1521 that is less than 30 mm. In one embodiment the tapered toe portion 1550 has a toe offset TO from the center face plane 1521 that is less than 15 mm. In one embodiment the damping element 702 has a damping offset DO toeward from the center face plane 1521 that is greater than 1 mm and less than 20 mm. In one embodiment the damping element 702 has a damping offset DO toeward from the center face plane 1521 that is greater than 1 mm and less than 15 mm. In one embodiment the damping element 702 has a damping offset DO toeward from the center face plane 1521 that is greater than 1 mm and less than 10 mm. In one embodiment the damping element 702 has a damping offset DO toeward from the center face plane 1521 that is greater than 1 mm and less than 5 mm. In one embodiment the damping element 702 has a damping offset DO toeward from the center face plane 1521 that is 5 mm or less. In another embodiment, the damping element 702 has a damping offset DO toeward from the center face plane 1521 that is greater than 5 mm. In another embodiment, the damping element 702 has a damping offset DO toeward from the center face plane 1521 that is greater than 10 mm. In another embodiment, the damping element 702 has a damping offset DO toeward from the center face plane 1521 that is greater than 15 mm. In one embodiment, as shown in
As illustrated in
The golf club head 1500 may include a thermoset material 1575 on the rear surface 1519 of the striking face 1518. The thermoset material 1575 may be a self-leveling material such that the thermoset material 1575 can be placed in the cavity 1520 in an uncured state and permitted to flow onto the rear surface 1519 of the striking face including into areas difficult to access. The thermoset material 1575 then hardens in place to provide sound damping, increased stiffness in the striking face 1518 for adjusting the coefficient of restitution, and increased strength in the striking face 1518. The thermoset material 1575 may be an adhesive material with low viscosity such as DP105 made by 3M. The thermoset material 1575 may be other materials such as DIP SEAL or FLEX SEAL. In one embodiment, the thermoset material 1575 may be applied to the rear surface 1519 of the striking face 1518 near the sole 1505. In another embodiment, the thermoset material 1575 may be applied to the rear surface 1519 of the striking face 1518 near the topline 1507. In another embodiment, the thermoset material 1575 may be applied to the rear surface 1519 of the striking face 1518 near the toe 1506. In another embodiment, the thermoset material 1575 may be applied to the entire rear surface 1519 of the striking face 1518. Upon curing, a thickness of the thermoset material 1575 may be between 0.1 mm and 4.0 mm; more preferably, the thickness of the thermoset material 1575 may be between 0.5 mm and 2.0 mm. In another embodiment, the thermoset material 1575 may be applied to the back cover 1600 to dampen the sound of the back cover 1600 when the back cover 1600 is impacted and provide uniform sound characteristics when the back cover 1600 is impacted at various locations. The thermoset material 1575 may have hardness when cured between approximately 30 Shore D and approximately 50 Shore D; more preferably, the thermoset material 1575 may have hardness when cured of approximately 40 Shore D. The thermoset material 1575 may include a filler material having a different density than the thermoset material 1575 for overall weight adjustment of the golf club head 1500, weight disbursement about different areas within the golf club head 1500, or to provide additional damping of the golf club head 1500 or the back cover 1600.
The golf club head 1500 may include one or more foam components in the cavity 1520 to provide sound damping. The one or more foam components may be located in the cavity 1520 toward the toe 1506 and/or toward the heel 1504 and may contact the rear surface 1519 of the striking face 1518 and the back cover 1600. The one or more foam components may be a lightweight, molded foam which provides sound damping while having little affect on COR of the golf club head 1500. In one embodiment, the golf club head 1500 may have a foam component in the cavity 1520 toward the toe 1506 having at least 30% greater volume than a foam component in the cavity toward the heel 1504. In another embodiment, the golf club head 1500 may have a foam component in the cavity 1520 toward the toe 1506 having at least 50% greater volume than a foam component in the cavity toward the heel 1504. The one or more foam components may be made from MPP, TPEE, TPU, or PEBA.
As shown in
Although specific embodiments and aspects were described herein and specific examples were provided, the scope of the invention is not limited to those specific embodiments and examples. One skilled in the art will recognize other embodiments or improvements that are within the scope and spirit of the present invention. Therefore, the specific structure, acts, or media are disclosed only as illustrative embodiments. The scope of the invention is defined by the following claims and any equivalents therein.
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/102,224, filed on Jan. 27, 2023, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/958,233, filed on Sep. 30, 2022, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/543,459, filed on Dec. 6, 2021, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/532,222, filed on Nov. 22, 2021, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/377,696, filed on Jul. 16, 2021, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/349,519, filed on Jun. 16, 2021, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/138,618, filed on Dec. 30, 2020, which is a continuation in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/127,061, filed Dec. 18, 2020, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,433,284, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/085,474, filed Oct. 30, 2020, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,202,946, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/833,054, filed Mar. 27, 2020, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,020,639, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/286,412, filed Feb. 26, 2019, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,625,127, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/225,577, filed Dec. 19, 2018, now abandoned, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/158,578, filed Oct. 12, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,293,226, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/027,077, filed Jul. 3, 2018, now abandoned, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/220,122, filed Jul. 26, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,086,244, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/085,474 is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/592,170, filed Oct. 3, 2019, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,821,344, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/214,405, filed Dec. 10, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,471,319, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/085,474 is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/401,926, filed May 2, 2019, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,821,338, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/848,697, filed Dec. 20, 2017, now abandoned, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/359,206, filed Nov. 22, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,150,019, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/220,107, filed Jul. 26, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,993,704, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/543,459 is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/337,151, filed Jun. 2, 2021, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/065,310, filed on Aug. 13, 2020, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. To the extent appropriate, the present application claims priority to the above-referenced applications.
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