Patent Grant
10155145
Not applicable.
Not applicable.
Not applicable.
The present disclosure relates to sports equipment, and more particularly, to a set of golf clubs having improved distance gapping adjustability.
Today's golfers are constantly seeking means for improving their game. One avenue for improvement that golfers are turning to is the adjustable, or customizable, golf club. Previously, the United States Golf Association (USGA) rules permitted golf clubs to be adjustable only with respect to the weight of the golf club. However, since 2008, the USGA has allowed golf clubs to be designed with adjustable features other than weight, such as lie, face angle, and/or length. As a result, golfers now have a number of options for customizing a golf club to fit their particular preferences.
One particular aspect of the game where many golfers seek improvement is gapping, a term used to difference in distance obtained by one club to the next club in the set. In convention iron sets, such as traditional forged or cast cavity back irons, the gapping between clubs has traditionally been relatively uniform. However today with the introduction of hybrids and trans-hybrids, or hollow-irons, into traditional iron sets the gapping between clubs has become more of a concern. Particularly since such hybrids and trans-hybrids are incorporating new technologies that increase the distances associated with these clubs. Integrating such clubs into a set introduces new challenges in obtaining preferred gapping.
In its most general configuration, the presently disclosed invention includes set of golf clubs having a degree of adjustability to provide improved distance gapping. Numerous variations, modifications, alternatives, and alterations of the various preferred embodiments, processes, and methods may be used alone or in combination with one another as will become more readily apparent to those with skill in the art with reference to the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments and the accompanying figures and drawings.
Without limiting the scope of the invention as claimed below and referring now to the drawings and figures:
These drawings are provided to assist in the understanding of the exemplary embodiments of the invention as described in more detail below and should not be construed as unduly limiting the system. In particular, the relative spacing, positioning, sizing and dimensions of the various elements illustrated in the drawings are not drawn to scale and may have been exaggerated, reduced or otherwise modified for the purpose of improved clarity. Those of ordinary skill in the art will also appreciate that a range of alternative configurations have been omitted simply to improve the clarity and reduce the number of drawings.
The presently disclosed set of golf clubs enables a significant advance in the state of the art. The preferred embodiments accomplish this by new and novel arrangements of elements and methods that are configured in unique and novel ways and which demonstrate previously unavailable but preferred and desirable capabilities. The description set forth below in connection with the drawings is intended merely as a description of the presently preferred embodiments, and is not intended to represent the only form in which the set may be constructed or utilized. The description sets forth the designs, functions, means, and methods of implementing the set of golf clubs in connection with the illustrated embodiments. It is to be understood, however, that the same or equivalent functions and features may be accomplished by different embodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the spirit and scope.
First, embodiments of a length adjustment system will be disclosed in detail, although such length adjustment capability is just one embodiment of the present set of golf clubs, as will be explained in more detail later. With reference now to
As seen in
In order to better understand the present disclosure, some common terms used herein should be defined. First, one of skill in the art will know the meaning of “center of gravity,” referred to herein as CG, from an entry level course on the mechanics of solids. With respect to wood-type golf clubs, which are generally hollow and/or having non-uniform density, the CG is often thought of as the intersection of all the balance points of the golf club head. In other words, if you balance the golf club head on the face and then on the sole, the intersection of the two imaginary lines passing straight through the balance points would define the point referred to as the CG.
It is also helpful to establish a coordinate system to identify and discuss the location of the CG. In order to establish this coordinate system, one must first identify a ground plane (GP) and a shaft axis (SA). First, the ground plane (GP) is the horizontal plane upon which a golf club head rests, as seen best in a front elevation view of a golf club head (100) looking at the face (102) of the golf club head (100), as seen in
The intersection of the shaft axis (SA) with the ground plane (GP) fixes an origin point, labeled “origin” in
Now, with the origin and coordinate system defined, the terms that define the location of the CG may be explained. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the CG of a hollow golf club head such as the wood-type golf club head illustrated in
The moment of inertia of the golf club head (100) is a key ingredient in the playability of the club. Again, one skilled in the art will understand what is meant by moment of inertia with respect of golf club heads. As used herein, the term moment of inertia indicates MOIy, which is the moment of the inertia of the golf club head (100) around an axis through the CG, parallel to the Y-axis. MOIy is the moment of inertia of the golf club head (100) that resists opening and closing moments induced by ball strikes towards the heel portion (110) or the toe portion (112) of the golf club head (100).
The length adjustment system for joining a golf club head (100) to a shaft (1100) generally includes a number of components that may be utilized to create a number of golf club configurations. For example, in one embodiment, various components of the length adjustment system may be used to produce a minor length of a golf club and an intermediate length of a golf club. In another embodiment, the components of the length adjustment system may be used to produce a minor length, an intermediate length, and an extended length of a golf club. Each of the length configurations will be discussed in detail below. While the disclosure specifically notes three length configurations, those with skill in the art will appreciate that the length adjustment system may have as few as two length configurations, as well as more than three length configurations.
Referring generally to
With reference now to
Referring now to
When the shaft sleeve (200) and shaft (1100) are inserted into the hosel (120), a retainer (300) may be passed through the auxiliary hosel access (150) to cooperate with the shaft sleeve retainer (240) to releasably secure the shaft (1100) to the golf club head (100). As seen in
The length adjustment system in the minor length configuration also has a minor length weight. The minor length weight comprises the combined weight of the golf club head (100), the shaft sleeve (200), the retainer (300), and a minor length weight system (400), which is shown in
In one embodiment seen in
Referring generally to
For example, in one embodiment the length adjustment system includes at least a first spacer (500) and at least a first hosel sleeve (600), as seen in
With reference now to
An assembled view of the components of a spacer embodiment of the length adjustment system to produce an intermediate length configuration is shown in
As previously mentioned, the intermediate length configuration includes the shaft sleeve (200) and shaft (1100) combination described with respect to the minor length configuration. Thus, the shaft sleeve (200) will remain capable of cooperating with the hosel (120) of the golf club head (100).
In assembling the components of the length adjustment system to produce an intermediate length configuration, the first step may include securing the first spacer (500) to the shaft sleeve (200). As seen in the spacer embodiment of
The next step in the assembly process of the spacer embodiment may include inserting the combined first spacer (500) and shaft sleeve (200) through the first hosel sleeve (600), while in the non-spacer embodiment just the shaft sleeve (200) is inserted through the first hosel sleeve (600). As seen in
In one embodiment the retainer (300) is coaxial with the shaft sleeve (200) and the retainer (300) imparts a tensile load on the shaft sleeve (200), which imparts a compressive load on the first hosel sleeve (600) and forcing it to securely seat against the hosel ledge (140). As seen in
In the intermediate length configuration, as seen in
The length adjustment system in the intermediate length configuration also has an intermediate length weight. In the spacer based embodiment, the intermediate length weight comprises the combined weight of the golf club head (100), the shaft sleeve (200), the first spacer (500), the first hosel sleeve (600), the retainer (300), and an intermediate length weight system (700), which is shown in
While this particular embodiment of the length adjustment system permits a golf club to be easily transitioned between a minor length configuration and an intermediate length configuration, it does so in such a way that the characteristics of the golf club do not substantially change between the minor length configuration and the intermediate length configuration. For example, in this embodiment, the intermediate length weight is within 5 percent of the minor length weight. Thus, assuming a minor length weight of 200 grams, the intermediate length weight may be within a range of 190 grams to 210 grams. Still further, the intermediate length moment of inertia is within 10 percent of the minor length moment of inertia. For instance, assuming a minor length moment of inertia of 4000 g*cm2, the intermediate length moment of inertia may be within a range of 3600 g*cm2 to 4400 g*cm2. Moreover, in this particular embodiment, the X, Y, and Z coordinates of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi) are all within 15 percent of the X, Y, and Z coordinates of the minor length center of gravity (CGm). Again, for the simplicity of the example, assuming the minor length center of gravity (CGm) has an X coordinate of 1.0, a Y coordinate of 1.0, and a Z coordinate of 1.0, the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi) may have an X coordinate within a range of 0.85 to 1.15, a Y coordinate within a range of 0.85 to 1.15, and a Z coordinate within a range of 0.85 to 1.15. Thus, when changing between the minor length configuration and the intermediate length configuration, the characteristics of the golf club do not substantially change, which results in the golf club having a consistent feel in each configuration.
As noted above, the X, Y, and Z coordinates of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi) are all within 15 percent of the X, Y, and Z coordinates of the minor length center of gravity (CGm). Moreover, it has been observed that the length adjustment system results in additional unique relationships between the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi) and the minor length center of gravity (CGm). For example, in one embodiment, the X coordinate of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi) is less than the X coordinate of the minor length center of gravity (CGm). As a result, in this embodiment, the center of gravity of the golf club head (100) is moved closer to the heel portion (110) when increasing the length from a minor length to an intermediate length, which gives the golf club head (100) a slight draw bias. This may be desirable for golfers who tend to slice golf shots when using a longer golf club. In another embodiment, the Y coordinate of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi) is greater than the Y coordinate of the minor length center of gravity (CGm). In this embodiment, the center of gravity of the golf club head (100) would be positioned higher on the face (102) when increasing the length from a minor length to an intermediate length. Such an embodiment may be desirable for those golfers who seek more distance, as well as improved shot control.
In addition to the relationship between the X, Y, and Z coordinates of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi) and the minor length center of gravity (CGm), the center of gravity location for each configuration may be confined to an angle range. The angle range may be measured in an X-Z plane from the origin, representing an X-Z angle, as well as in an X-Y plane from the origin, representing an X-Y angle. For example, in one embodiment, both the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi) and the minor length center of gravity (CGm) are located between an X-Z angle of 26 degrees to 30 degrees, as may be appreciated in
The insubstantial change of the golf club's characteristics between the minor length configuration and the intermediate length configuration is the result of carefully balancing the weight of each configuration and the location of the weight system (400, 700) of each configuration. For example, in one embodiment, the weight of the intermediate length weight system (700) is at least 60 percent less than the weight of the minor length weight system (400), and the combined weight of the first spacer (500) and the first hosel sleeve (600) is at least 50 percent less than the weight of the minor length weight system (400). Thus, as some weight is added toward the heel portion (110) to obtain the intermediate length configuration, less weight is added toward the toe portion (120) in the form of the intermediate length weight system (700). This careful balancing results in similar golf club characteristics when utilizing the length adjustment system to transition back and forth from a minor length configuration to an intermediate length configuration.
As previously mentioned, along with the weight of each configuration, the location of the weight system (400, 700) must be considered when moving between the minor length configuration and the intermediate length configuration so that the golf club's characteristics do not substantially change. For example, in one embodiment, a center (410) of the minor length weight system (400) in an X-Z plane and a center (710) of the intermediate length weight system (700) in the X-Z plane are both located within 20 degrees of the X-Z angle, i.e., the X-Z angle of 26 degrees to 30 degrees discussed above, as seen in
Another unique relationship has been discovered between the location of the weight systems (400, 700) and the location of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi). As previously described, a center (410) of the minor length weight system (400) in an X-Z plane is a distance Xml and a distance Zml from the origin. Similarly, a center (710) of the intermediate length weight system (700) the X-Z plane is a distance Xil and a distance Zil from the origin. In one embodiment, the distance Xml and the distance Xil are within a range of 1.2 to 3.5 times the X coordinate of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi), and the distance Zml and the distance Zil are within a range of 1.7 to 7.5 times the Z coordinate of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi). Still further, in another embodiment, the distance Xml and the distance Xil are within a range of 2.2 to 2.8 times the X coordinate of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi), and the distance Zml and the distance Zil are within a range of 2.3 to 6.0 times the Z coordinate of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi). Such relationships ensure that the length adjustment system may be used move between a minor length of a golf club and an intermediate length of a golf club without substantially changing the golf club's characteristics and providing a consistent feel.
Referring now to
As seen in
With reference now to
An assembled view of the components a spacer based embodiment of the length adjustment system to produce an extended length configuration is shown in
In assembling the components of the length adjustment system to produce an extended length configuration, the first step may include securing the second spacer (800) to the shaft sleeve (200). As seen in
The next step in the assembly process may include inserting the combined second spacer (800) and shaft sleeve (200) through the second hosel sleeve (900), while in the non-spacer embodiment just the shaft sleeve (200) is inserted through the second hosel sleeve (900). As seen in
In the extended length configuration, as seen in
The length adjustment system in the extended length configuration also has an extended length weight. In the spacer embodiment the extended length weight comprises the combined weight of the golf club head (100), the shaft sleeve (200), the second spacer (800), the second hosel sleeve (900), the retainer (300), and an extended length weight system (1000), which is shown in
While this particular embodiment of the length adjustment system permits a golf club to be easily transitioned between a minor length configuration, an intermediate length configuration, and an extended length configuration, it does so in such a way that the characteristics of the golf club do not substantially change between each configuration. For example, in this embodiment, the extended length weight is within 5 percent of the minor length weight. Thus, assuming a minor length weight of 200 grams, the extended length weight may be within a range of 190 grams to 210 grams. Still further, the extended length moment of inertia is within 15 percent of the minor length moment of inertia. For instance, assuming a minor length moment of inertia of 4000 g*cm2, the extended length moment of inertia may be within a range of 3400 g*cm2 to 4600 g*cm2. Moreover, in this embodiment, the X, Y, and Z coordinates of the extended length center of gravity (CGe) are all within 15 percent of the X, Y, and Z coordinates of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi). Assuming, for the simplicity of an example, that the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi) has an X coordinate of 1.0, a Y coordinate of 1.0, and a Z coordinate of 1.0, the extended length center of gravity (CGe) may have an X coordinate within a range of 0.85 to 1.15, a Y coordinate within a range of 0.85 to 1.15, and a Z coordinate within a range of 0.85 to 1.15. Thus, when changing between the minor length configuration, the intermediate length configuration, and the extended length configuration, the characteristics of the golf club do not substantially change, which results in the golf club having a consistent feel in each configuration.
In a further embodiment, the length adjustment system exhibits even more consistent golf club characteristics between each of the minor length, intermediate length, and extended length configurations. For example, in one embodiment, the intermediate length weight and the extended length weight are each within 2.5 percent of the minor length weight. Thus, assuming a minor length weight of 200 grams, the intermediate length weight and the extended length weight may each be within a range of 195 grams to 205 grams. Moreover, this particular length adjustment system provides an intermediate length moment of inertia that is within 5 percent of the minor length moment of inertia, and an extended length moment of inertia that is within 10 percent of the minor length moment of inertia. For instance, assuming a minor length moment of inertia of 4000 g*cm, the intermediate length moment of inertia may be within a range of 3800 g*cm2 to 4200 g*cm2, and the extended length moment of inertia may be within a range of 3600 g*cm2 to 4400 g*cm2. Still further, in this embodiment of the length adjustment system, the X, Y, and Z coordinates of the extended length center of gravity (CGe) are all within 8 percent of the X, Y, and Z coordinates of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi). Again for the simplicity of an example, assume the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi) has an X coordinate of 1.0, a Y coordinate of 1.0, and a Z coordinate of 1.0, the extended length center of gravity (CGe) may have an X coordinate within a range of 0.92 to 1.08, a Y coordinate within a range of 0.92 to 1.08, and a Z coordinate within a range of 0.92 to 1.08. As a result, in this particular embodiment, the characteristics of the golf club are changed even less when switching between the minor length configuration, the intermediate length configuration, and the extended length configuration, which results in the golf club having a more consistent feel in each configuration.
As previously mentioned, the X, Y, and Z coordinates of the extended length center of gravity (CGe) are all within at least 15 percent of the X, Y, and Z coordinates of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi). Moreover, it has been observed that the length adjustment system results in additional unique relationships between the extended length center of gravity (CGe) and the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi). For example, in one particular embodiment, the X coordinate of the extended length center of gravity (CGe) is less than the X coordinate of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi). Thus, in this embodiment, the center of gravity of the golf club head (100) is moved closer to the heel portion (110) when increasing the length from an intermediate length to an extended length, which provides the golf club head (100) with a slight draw bias compared to the shorter length configuration. This may be desirable for golfers who tend to slice golf shots when using a longer golf club. In another embodiment, the Y coordinate of the extended length center of gravity (CGe) is greater than the Y coordinate of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi). In this embodiment, the center of gravity of the golf club head (100) would be positioned higher on the face (102) when increasing the length from an intermediate length to an extended length. Such an embodiment may be desirable for those golfers who seek maximum distance, as well as improved shot control.
In addition to the relationship between the X, Y, and Z coordinates of the extended length center of gravity (CGe) and the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi), and the relationship between the X, Y, and Z coordinates of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi) and the minor length center of gravity (CGm), the center of gravity location for each configuration may be confined to an angle range. The angle range may be measured in an X-Z plane from the origin, representing an X-Z angle, as well as in an X-Y plane from the origin, representing an X-Y angle. For example, in one embodiment of the length adjustment system, the minor length center of gravity (CGm), the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi), and the extended length center of gravity (CGe) are all located between an X-Z angle of 26 degrees to 30 degrees, as seen in
As previously noted with respect to a previous embodiment of the length adjustment system, the insubstantial change of the golf club's characteristics between each configuration is the result of carefully balancing the weight of each configuration and the location of the weight system (400, 700, 1000) of each configuration, as well as the changing lengths and attributes of the first spacer (500) or extended retainer (300), first hosel sleeve (600), second spacer (800) or further extended retainer (300), and second hosel sleeve (900). For example, in one embodiment, the weight of the extended length weight system (1000) is at least 80 percent less than the weight of the minor length weight system (400), and the combined weight of the second spacer (800) and the second hosel sleeve (900) is at least 50 percent less than the weight of the minor length system (400). Thus, as some weight is added toward the heel portion (110) from the addition of the second spacer (800) and the second hosel sleeve (900) to obtain the extended length configuration, less weight is added toward the toe portion (120) in the form of the extended length weight system (1000). This careful balancing results in similar golf club characteristics when utilizing the length adjustment system to transition between each of the length configurations.
As noted with respect to a previously discussed embodiment of the length adjustment system, the location of the weight system (400, 700, 1000) must be considered when moving between the minor length configuration, the intermediate length configuration, and the extended length configuration so that the golf club's characteristics do not substantially change. For example, in one embodiment, a center (410) of the minor length weight system (400) in an X-Z plane, a center (710) of the intermediate length weight system (700) in the X-Z plane, and a center (1010) of the extended length weight system (1000) are all located within 20 degrees of the X-Z angle, i.e., an X-Z angle of 26 degrees to 30 degrees discussed above, as seen in
As noted above, a unique relationship has been discovered between the location of the weight systems (400, 700) and the location of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi). This relationship is also applicable to the embodiment of the length adjustment system that is capable of producing a minor length, an intermediate length, and an extended length of a golf club. As previously described, a center (410) of the minor length weight system (400) in an X-Z plane is a distance Xml and a distance Zml from the origin, and a center (710) of the intermediate length weight system (700) the X-Z plane is a distance Xil and a distance Zil from the origin. Similarly, a center (1010) of the extended length weight system (1000) in the X-Z plane is a distance Xel and a distance Zel from the origin. In one embodiment of the length adjustment system, the distance Xml, the distance Xil, and the distance Xel are within a range of 1.2 to 3.5 times the X coordinate of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi), and the distance Zml, the distance Zil, and the distance Zel are within a range of 1.7 to 7.5 times the Z coordinate of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi). Still further, in another embodiment, the distance Xml, the distance Xil, and the distance Xel are within a range of 2.2 to 2.8 times the X coordinate of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi), and the distance Zml, the distance Zil, and the distance Zel are within a range of 2.3 to 6.0 times the Z coordinate of the intermediate length center of gravity (CGi). Such relationships ensure that the length adjustment system may be used move between each length configuration without substantially changing the golf club's characteristics, which provides a consistent feel among each length configuration.
As can be appreciated from the foregoing, in one embodiment, the length adjustment system may be used to produce a golf club having a minor length and an intermediate length. In this particular embodiment, the length adjustment system includes a number of components, including: a shaft sleeve (200) attached to the end of a golf shaft (1100), a minor length weight system (400), a first spacer (500) or first extended length retainer, a first hosel sleeve (600), an intermediate length weight system (700), and a retainer (300) for securing the shaft (1100) to the golf club head (100). In another embodiment, the length adjustment system may be used to produce a golf club having a minor length, an intermediate length, and an extended length. In this embodiment, the length adjustment system includes the same components for producing the minor length and the intermediate length along with the following additional components: a second spacer (800) or second extended length retainer, a second hosel sleeve (900), and an extended length weight system (1000).
As previously mentioned, an important aspect contributing to the insubstantial change of the golf club's characteristics between each configuration is the careful balancing of the weight of each configuration. Consider the following example of the length adjustment system that may be used to produce a golf club having a minor length, an intermediate length, and an extended length. In this particular embodiment, the golf club head (100) has a weight of 175 grams, the shaft sleeve (200) weighs 12.7 grams, and the retainer (300) weighs 3.3 grams.
In another embodiment, namely the minor length configuration, the minor length weight system (400) weighs 16 grams, which when combined with the golf club head (100), the shaft sleeve (200), and the retainer (300) produces a minor length weight of 207 grams. The minor length golf club has a minor length center of gravity (CGm) with an X coordinate of 1.032″, a Y coordinate of 1.137″, and a Z coordinate of 0.548″, and a minor length moment of inertia of 4129 g*cm2.
In the intermediate length configuration, the length adjustment system further includes a first spacer (500), or first extended length retainer, having an additional weight of 2.7 grams and a first hosel sleeve (600) having a weight of 3.9 grams. For the intermediate length configuration, the minor length weight system (400) is removed and replaced with an intermediate length weight system (700), which has a weight of 6 grams. Thus, in the intermediate length configuration, the combination of the golf club head (100), the shaft sleeve (200), the retainer (300), the first spacer (500) or first extended length retainer, the first hosel sleeve (600), and the intermediate length weight system (700) produces an intermediate length weight of 203.6 grams. In the intermediate configuration, the intermediate length golf club has an intermediate length center of gravity (CGi) having an X coordinate of 0.908″, a Y coordinate of 1.226″, and a Z coordinate of 0.473″, and an intermediate length moment of inertia of 4293 g*cm2. In this example, the intermediate length is ½ inch greater than the minor length.
In the extended length configuration, the first spacer (500), or first extended length retainer, and the first hosel sleeve (600) are removed and replaced with a second spacer (800), or a second extended length retainer, having a weight of 3.9 grams, or an additional weight of 3.9 grams over the standard retainer in the case of a second extended length retainer, and a second hosel sleeve (900) having a weight of 7.7 grams. Moreover, in the extended length configuration, the intermediate length weight system (700) is removed and replaced with an extended length weight system (1000) having a weight of 2 grams. Thus, in the extended length configuration, the combination of the golf club head (100), the shaft sleeve (200), the retainer (300), the second spacer (800) or second extended length retainer, the second hosel sleeve (900), and the extended length weight system (1000) produces an extended length weight of 204.6 grams. The extended length golf club has an extended length center of gravity (CGe) having an X coordinate of 0.813″, a Y coordinate of 1.303″, and a Z coordinate of 0.437″, and an intermediate length moment of inertia of 4537 g*cm2. In this example, the extended length is ½ inch greater than the intermediate length, and 1 inch greater than the minor length.
As may be appreciated from this example, careful balancing of the weight of each configuration leads to a golf club having substantially similar characteristics in each configuration. Thus, the length adjustment system may be used to easily increase the length of the golf club without substantially changing the golf club characteristics, which results in a consistent feel among each golf club length configuration.
In a particular embodiment, seen in
A key location on a face of a golf club head is an engineered impact point (EIP), as seen in
The engineered impact point (EIP) may also be easily determined for club heads having alternative score line configurations. For instance, the golf club head of
The engineered impact point (EIP) may also be easily determined in the rare case of a golf club head having an asymmetric score line pattern, or no score lines at all. In such embodiments the engineered impact point (EIP) shall be determined in accordance with the USGA “Procedure for Measuring the Flexibility of a Golf Clubhead,” Revision 2.0, Mar. 25, 2005, which is incorporated herein by reference. This USGA procedure identifies a process for determining the impact location on the face of a golf club that is to be tested, also referred therein as the face center. The USGA procedure utilizes a template that is placed on the face of the golf club to determine the face center. In these limited cases of asymmetric score line patterns, or no score lines at all, this USGA face center shall be the engineered impact point (EIP) that is referenced throughout this application.
The engineered impact point (EIP) on the face is an important reference to define other attributes of the present invention. The engineered impact point (EIP) is generally shown on the face with rotated crosshairs labeled EIP. One important dimension that utilizes the engineered impact point (EIP) is the center face progression (CFP), seen in
A second dimension that utilizes the engineered impact point (EIP) is referred to as a club moment arm (CMA). The CMA is the two dimensional distance from the CG of the club head to the engineered impact point (EIP) on the face, as seen in
The club moment arm (CMA) has a significant impact on the launch angle and the spin of the golf ball upon impact, as well as the ball flight of off-center hits. In fact, testing has shown that each hundredth of an inch reduction in club moment arm (CMA) results in a reduction in ball spin rate of up to 13.5 rpm. A shorter club moment arm (CMA) produces less variation between shots hit at the engineered impact point (EIP) and off-center hits. Thus, a golf ball struck near the heel or toe of a short club moment arm (CMA) club will have launch conditions more similar to a perfectly struck shot. Conversely, a golf ball struck near the heel or toe of a golf club head with a large club moment arm (CMA) would have significantly different launch conditions than a ball struck at the engineered impact point (EIP). Therefore, the change in club moment arm (CMA) across the transition from a curved face golf club to a flat face golf club is significant to obtaining preferred distance gapping.
Another important dimension only takes into consideration two dimensions and is referred to as the transfer distance (TD), seen in
The transfer distance (TD) is significant in that is helps define another moment of inertia value that is significant to the present invention. This new moment of inertia value is defined as the face closing moment of inertia, referred to as MOIfc, which is the horizontally translated (no change in Y-direction elevation) version of MOIy around a vertical axis that passes through the origin. MOIfc is calculated by adding MOIy to the product of the club head mass and the transfer distance (TD) squared. Thus,
MOIfc=MOIy+(mass*(TD)2)
The face closing moment (MOIfc) is important because is represents the resistance that a golfer feels during a swing when trying to bring the club face back to a square position for impact with the golf ball. In other words, as the golf swing returns the golf club head to its original position to impact the golf ball the face begins closing with the goal of being square at impact with the golf ball.
In another embodiment preferred gapping between adjacent lofted clubs in a set of golf clubs is further achieved by incorporating loft adjustability of at least one of the clubs. In one embodiment the loft adjustability is provided at the transition from a golf club head having a curved face, in other words one with bulge and roll, and a golf club head with a flat face, which includes, but is not limited to, a trans-hybrid with a flat face, a hollow iron, a cavity back iron, a muscle back iron, and a blade iron, just to name a few. Likewise, as will be discussed in later embodiments, this transition point from curved face golf club to flat face golf club may also be the point at which other forms of adjustability are incorporated, including length adjustability, as previously described, and lie adjustability, as well as the point at which it is important to maintain certain relationships between the two types of golf club heads at this transition.
Several golf club sets are illustrated in
One embodiment of the set of golf clubs includes a first curved face adjustable hybrid golf club, club (b) of
In this embodiment the first flat face golf club has a first flat face golf club head having a first flat face loft of at least 2 degrees greater than the first design loft. A first flat face is positioned at a first flat face front portion of the first flat face golf club head where the first flat face golf club head impacts a golf ball, wherein the first flat face has, and wherein the first flat face includes a first flat face engineered impact point (EIP) and a first flat face club moment arm (CMA), and a first flat face rear portion opposite the first flat face. The transition from the first curved face golf club head to the first flat face golf club head is also generally characterized by a significant drop in club head volume from the first curve face volume to a first flat face volume, and historically a large change in the club moment arm (CMA).
In one embodiment the first flat face volume is less than 90 cubic centimeters, whereas in another embodiment the first flat face volume is at least 15% less than the first curve face volume, while an even further embodiment has found preferred gapping with a first flat face volume is 45-75% of the first curve face volume. One particular embodiment having preferred gapping characteristics has a first flat face volume that is 50-70% of the first curve face volume. The first flat face golf club head has a first flat face hosel with a first flat face bore having a first flat face center that defines a first flat face shaft axis (SA) which intersects with a horizontal ground plane (GP) to define a first flat face origin point, wherein the first flat face bore is located at a first flat face heel side of the first flat face golf club head, and wherein a first flat face toe side of the first flat face golf club head is located opposite of the first flat face heel side. The first flat face golf club has a first flat face shaft having a first flat face proximal end and a first flat face distal end, and a first flat face grip attached to the first flat face shaft proximal end. In the case of an integrated set of at least one curved face club and flat face club replacing traditional irons, the first flat face golf club has a first flat face club length of at least 36 inches and no more than 42 inches.
One feature that aids a golfer in fine tuning the distance gap produced across the transition from the first curved face adjustable loft hybrid golf club to the first flat face golf club is the ability to have a first weak loft is no less than 1.5 degrees less than the first flat face loft. It is important to note that the first flat face loft is not necessarily a first design loft, although it is when the first flat face golf club is not loft adjustable. However, in the later described embodiments in which the first flat face golf club is loft adjustable, as seen in
Referring back to the embodiment in which the first flat face golf club is not loft adjustable, since the first flat face loft, or first flat face design loft in non loft adjustable embodiments, is at least 2 degrees greater than the first design loft, and the first weak loft is no less than 1.5 degrees less than the first flat face loft; the golfer is able to weaken the first design loft by at least 0.5 degrees; while in the embodiment in which the first weak loft is equal to, or greater than, the first flat face loft, the golfer is able to weaken the first design loft by at least 2.0 degrees. Therefore, in this embodiment the golf club set allows a golfer to adjust the loft of the first curved face adjustable loft hybrid golf club so that it is the same, or even less than, the first flat face golf club, which is significant to ensure proper distance gapping across these different club types. One skilled in the art will understand that adjusting the loft of the first curved face adjustable loft hybrid golf club to equal the loft of the first flat face golf club does not equate to a golf ball traveling the same distance when struck by the two clubs, as the locations of the centers of gravity, weight of the club head, club length, and the characteristic time (CT), or coefficient of restitution (COR), which are referred to as face performance indicators, of the face significantly influence the travel distance of the golf ball. In a further embodiment the first design loft may also be reduced to a first strong loft, which is at least 1 degree less than the first design loft. An even further embodiment the adjustability allows the first design loft to be weakened to a first weak loft that is more than 2 degrees, while in a another embodiment it is at least 2.5 degrees, and at least 3 degrees in a further embodiment.
As previously noted, in one embodiment the first flat face golf club is adjustable and further includes a first flat face adjustability system including a first flat face shaft sleeve attached to an end of the first flat face shaft that adjustably cooperates with the first flat face hosel of the first flat face golf club head and capable of adjusting a first flat face design loft to a first flat face strong loft. In a further embodiment the first flat face strong loft is equal to, or less than, the first weak loft, as seen in
The first curved face adjustable loft hybrid golf club has a first curved face performance indicator, which may be a first characteristic time and/or a first coefficient of restitution, and the first flat face golf club has a first flat face performance indicator, which may be a first flat face characteristic time and/or a first flat face coefficient of restitution. One skilled in the art will be familiar with these terms and the associated testing procedures, however the following disclosure may be helpful. In 1998 the United States Golf Association (USGA) limited the coefficient of restitution (COR) in drivers to 0.830, more specifically to 0.822 with a test tolerance of 0.008 effectively taking the limit up to 0.830. With the introduction of these limits, the USGA needed a test procedure to measure a driver's COR. Originally, a ball was fired by air cannon into a specimen and pre and post impact velocities were compared to find COR, as set forth in “Procedure for Measuring the Velocity Ratio of a Clubhead for Conformance to Appendix II, (5a.),” Revision 3 Jan. 1, 2002. This process took a significant amount of time to perform when considering the set up and the controls associated with the test. Those skilled in the art know that today the characteristic time, often referred to as the CT, value of a golf club head is more widely used in determining conformance with the USGA equipment rules. The rules currently state that the characteristic time, or CT, of a club head shall not be greater than 239 microseconds, with a maximum test tolerance of 18 microseconds. Thus, it is common for golf clubs to be designed with the goal of a 239 microsecond CT, knowing that due to manufacturing variability that some of the heads will have a CT value higher than 239 microseconds, and some will be lower. However, it is critical that the CT value does not exceed 257 microseconds or the club will not conform to the USGA rules. The USGA publication “Procedure for Measuring the Flexibility of a Golf Clubhead,” Revision 2.0, Mar. 25, 2005, is the current standard that sets forth the procedure for measuring the characteristic time. However, some believe that this CT test is only applicable to drivers, in fact, the USGA still employs the air cannon COR test when testing fairway woods, hybrids and irons.
Thus, in one embodiment, the present golf club set reduces distance gapping issues by having the first flat face performance indicator within 20% of the first curved face performance indicator, while in another embodiment it is within 10%. In yet another embodiment the first curved face performance indicator is equal to, or less than, the first flat face performance indicator, thereby further controlling the distance gap between the flat face club and the curved face club, and is the opposite of general club set designs. Still further, in another embodiment the first curved face performance indicator is at least 5% less than the first flat face performance indicator.
Another embodiment of the present golf club set reduces distance gapping issues by controlling the change in club moment arm (CMA) from the first curved face golf club to the first flat face golf club. The significance of the club moment arm has been previously explained. In one such embodiment the change in club moment arm is less than 0.300 inches and the first flat face club moment arm is at least 60% of the first club moment arm, whereas a common change in club moment arm of a conventional hybrid to a traditional iron greater than 0.300 inches, generally greater than 0.400 inches, and often greater than 0.500 inches. In a further embodiment the difference between the first club moment arm and the first flat face club moment arm is less than 0.250 inches and the first flat face club moment arm is 75%-95% of the first club moment arm; while in an even further embodiment the difference between the first club moment arm and the first flat face club moment arm is less than 0.200 inches and the first flat face club moment arm is 80%-90% of the first club moment arm. One particular embodiment having preferred distance gapping attributes has a first club moment arm of 0.7-0.9 inches and a first flat face club moment arm of 0.5-0.6 inches. Further embodiments may include at least one additional curved face golf club and at least one flat face golf club. In this embodiment a second curved face golf club has a second club moment arm that is within 10% of the first club moment arm, and a second first flat face golf club has a second flat face club moment arm that is within 15% of the first flat face club moment arm.
Another embodiment of the set, seen in
Yet another embodiment of the set incorporates length adjustability into the first flat face golf club, as seen in
The first curved face adjustable hybrid golf club may also have an adjustable lie angle to further aid in controlling the distance gap at the transition from a curved face club to a flat face club. In this embodiment the first curved face adjustable hybrid golf club is adjustable in lie from a first curved face design lie angle to a first curved face upright lie angle, and the first curved face upright lie angle is at least as great as a first flat face lie angle. While lie angles are known to one skilled in the art, an upright, design, and flat lie angle, are illustrated in
In one embodiment the first curved face adjustable hybrid golf club is adjustable in lie from a first curved face design lie angle to a first curved face upright lie angle that is at least 0.5 degrees greater than the first curved face design lie angle; while in an even further embodiment the first curved face adjustable hybrid golf club is adjustable in lie from a first curved face design lie angle to a first curved face upright lie angle that is at least 1.0 degrees greater than the first curved face design lie angle. Additionally, the first curved face adjustable hybrid golf club may also be adjustable in lie from a first curved face design lie angle to a first curved face flat lie angle that is at least 0.5 degrees less than the first curved face design lie angle; while in an even further embodiment the first curved face adjustable hybrid golf club is adjustable in lie from a first curved face design lie angle to a first curved face flat lie angle that is at least 1.0 degrees less than the first curved face design lie angle. In an even further embodiment the difference between the design lie angle and the adjusted lie angle, either upright or flat, is at least 1.5 degrees; while it is at least 2.0 degrees in a further embodiment.
Similarly, in one embodiment the first flat face adjustable golf club is adjustable in lie from a first flat face design lie angle to a first flat face flat lie angle that is at least 0.5 degrees less than the first flat face design lie angle; while in an even further embodiment the first flat face adjustable golf club is adjustable in lie from a first flat face design lie angle to a first flat face flat lie angle that is at least 1.0 degrees less than the first flat face design lie angle. Additionally, the first flat face adjustable golf club may also be adjustable in lie from a first flat face design lie angle to a first flat face upright lie angle that is at least 0.5 degrees greater than the first flat face design lie angle; while in an even further embodiment the first flat face adjustable golf club is adjustable in lie from a first flat face design lie angle to a first flat face upright lie angle that is at least 1.0 degrees greater than the first flat face design lie angle. In an even further embodiment the difference between the design lie angle and the adjusted lie angle, either upright or flat, is at least 1.5 degrees; while it is at least 2.0 degrees in a further embodiment.
So far the golf club set been disclosed as including a first curved face adjustable golf club, which may be adjustable in loft, length, and/or lie, and a non-adjustable first flat face golf club, along with unique relationships among the adjusted parameter(s) of the first curved face adjustable golf club and the fixed parameters of the non-adjustable first flat face golf club to obtain preferential distance gapping. Further embodiments disclose that the first flat face golf club may also be adjustable in loft, length, and/or lie, along with unique relationships among the adjusted parameter(s) of both clubs to obtain preferential distance gapping. Each of these adjustability methods and relationships may be used individually or in combination with the other adjustability methods. For example,
Any of the combinations may further include a first flat face performance indicator is within 20% of the first curved face performance indicator, or within 10% in some embodiments, as previously disclosed, or in even further embodiment the first curved face performance indicator is no greater than the first flat face performance indicator, further ensuring that desirable gapping may be obtained using any of the adjustability combinations. Further, the adjustability systems may include the previously disclosed weight system(s) to allow a golfer to maintain a desired common swing weight for each club. Additionally, in a further embodiment moment of inertia, specifically MOIy, of the curved face club is within 15 percent of the moment of inertia of the flat face club, regardless of the adjustability position, further ensuring a consistent feel across the club type transition and aiding in obtaining desired distance gapping. In even further embodiments the adjustability system is designed to allocate weight such that for an individual club the X, Y, and Z coordinates of a center of gravity each vary by less than 15 percent among the various adjustable settings, while in an even further embodiment they vary by less than 10 percent. Such consistency in center of gravity location further ensures a consistent feel across the club type transition and aids in obtaining desired distance gapping. Yet further embodiments the adjustability system are designed to allocate weight such that for an individual club the moment of inertia, specifically MOIy, varies by less than 15 percent among the various adjustable settings, while in an even further embodiment it varies by less than 10 percent. Such consistency in moment of inertia of a particular club, regardless of the adjustability setting, further ensures a consistent feel across the club type transition and aids in obtaining desired distance gapping.
In one embodiment of the set of golf clubs the transition from the first curved face adjustable hybrid golf club to the first flat face golf club does not occur until a first design loft of at least 25 degrees, which generally equates to a 6-iron being the first flat face golf club. While in an even further embodiment the transition from the first curved face adjustable hybrid golf club to the first flat face golf club does not occur until the first design loft is at least 28 degrees, which generally equates to a 7-iron being the first flat face golf club. Such embodiments further improve the distance gapping characteristics of the set by moving the transition point to higher lofted clubs.
While,
In one particular embodiment, the transition from curved face golf club to flat face golf club occurs in a loft range of 20-30 degrees and the golf club set includes at least three golf clubs having design lofts of 20-30 degrees, including a first curved face adjustable loft hybrid golf club, having a first loft adjustability range, and a first flat face adjustable loft golf club, having a first flat face loft adjustability range, wherein the first loft adjustability range and the first flat face loft adjustability range combine to provide at least six distinct loft settings, wherein at least one of the loft settings for the first flat face loft adjustable golf club is equal to, or less than, at least one of the loft settings for the first curved face adjustable loft hybrid golf club. In a further embodiment, the third golf club in this loft range is also adjustable and provides at least three additional distinct loft settings, wherein at least one of the loft settings is equal to a loft setting of one of the other two clubs, or overlaps into the first loft adjustability range or the first flat face loft adjustability range. In yet a further embodiment at least one of the golf clubs within this loft range is an adjustable length golf club and has at least one length that is equal to the length of at least one of the other two golf clubs within this loft range. Still further, another embodiment has at least two of the golf clubs within this loft range that are adjustable length golf clubs and have at least one length that is equal to the length of at least one of the other two golf clubs within this loft range. In yet a further embodiment at least one of the golf clubs within this loft range is an adjustable lie golf club and has at least one lie angle that is equal to the lie angle of at least one of the other two golf clubs within this loft range. Still further, another embodiment has at least two of the golf clubs within this loft range that are adjustable lie golf clubs and have at least one lie angle that is equal to the lie angle of at least one of the other two golf clubs within this loft range. In yet another embodiment all three of the golf clubs within this loft range have an MOIy, which is the moment of the inertia of the golf club head around an axis through the CG, parallel to the Y-axis, that is within the range of 2200-3000 g*cm2. In a further embodiment all three of the clubs in this particular set have face performance indicators within 20% of the highest face performance indicator. While in another embodiment all three of the clubs in this particular set have face performance indicators within 10% of the highest face performance indicator; and in another embodiment the highest face performance indicator is associated with a flat face golf club head.
In another embodiment, the transition from curved face golf club to flat face golf club occurs in a loft range of 25-35 degrees and the golf club set includes at least three golf clubs having design lofts of 25-35 degrees, including a first curved face adjustable loft hybrid golf club, having a first loft adjustability range, and a first flat face adjustable loft golf club, having a first flat face loft adjustability range, wherein the first loft adjustability range and the first flat face loft adjustability range combine to provide at least six distinct loft settings, wherein at least one of the loft settings for the first flat face loft adjustable golf club is equal to, or less than, at least one of the loft settings for the first curved face adjustable loft hybrid golf club. In a further embodiment, the third golf club in this loft range is also adjustable and provides at least three additional distinct loft settings, wherein at least one of the loft settings is equal to a loft setting of one of the other two clubs, or overlaps into the first loft adjustability range or the first flat face loft adjustability range. In yet a further embodiment at least one of the golf clubs within this loft range is an adjustable length golf club and has at least one length that is equal to the length of at least one of the other two golf clubs within this loft range. Still further, another embodiment has at least two of the golf clubs within this loft range that are adjustable length golf clubs and have at least one length that is equal to the length of at least one of the other two golf clubs within this loft range. In yet a further embodiment at least one of the golf clubs within this loft range is an adjustable lie golf club and has at least one lie angle that is equal to the lie angle of at least one of the other two golf clubs within this loft range. Still further, another embodiment has at least two of the golf clubs within this loft range that are adjustable lie golf clubs and have at least one lie angle that is equal to the lie angle of at least one of the other two golf clubs within this loft range. In yet another embodiment all three of the golf clubs within this loft range have an MOIy, which is the moment of the inertia of the golf club head around an axis through the CG, parallel to the Y-axis, that is within the range of 2200-3000 g*cm2. In a further embodiment all three of the clubs in this particular set have face performance indicators within 20% of the highest face performance indicator. While in another embodiment all three of the clubs in this particular set have face performance indicators within 10% of the highest face performance indicator; and in another embodiment the highest face performance indicator is associated with a flat face golf club head.
In still a further embodiment, the transition from curved face golf club to flat face golf club occurs in a loft range of 20-30 degrees and the golf club set includes at least five golf clubs having design lofts of 20-40 degrees, including at least two curved face adjustable loft hybrid golf clubs, having a first loft adjustability range and a second loft adjustability range, and at least two flat face adjustable loft golf clubs, having a first flat face loft adjustability range and a second flat face loft adjustability range. The four loft adjustability ranges combine to provide at least twelve distinct loft settings, wherein at least one of the flat face loft adjustable golf clubs has a loft setting that is equal to, or less than, at least one of loft setting of one of the curved face adjustable loft hybrid golf clubs. In yet a further embodiment at least one of the golf clubs within this loft range is an adjustable length golf club and has at least one length that is equal to the length of at least one of the other golf clubs within this loft range. Still further, another embodiment has at least two of the golf clubs within this loft range that are adjustable length golf clubs and have at least one length that is equal to the length of at least one of the other golf clubs within this loft range. In yet a further embodiment at least one of the golf clubs within this loft range is an adjustable lie golf club and has at least one lie angle that is equal to the lie angle of at least one of the other four golf clubs within this loft range. Still further, another embodiment has at least two of the golf clubs within this loft range that are adjustable lie golf clubs and have at least one lie angle that is equal to the lie angle of at least one of the other golf clubs within this loft range. In yet another embodiment all five of the golf clubs within this loft range have an MOIy, which is the moment of the inertia of the golf club head around an axis through the CG, parallel to the Y-axis, that is within the range of 2200-3000 g*cm2. In a further embodiment all five of the clubs in this particular set have face performance indicators within 20% of the highest face performance indicator. While in another embodiment all five of the clubs in this particular set have face performance indicators within 10% of the highest face performance indicator; and in another embodiment the highest face performance indicator is associated with a flat face golf club head.
In yet another set composition embodiment, the transition from curved face golf club to flat face golf club occurs in a loft range of 20-30 degrees and the golf club set includes at least five golf clubs having design lofts of 20-40 degrees, including at least two curved face adjustable loft hybrid golf clubs, having a first loft adjustability range and a second loft adjustability range, and at least one flat face adjustable loft golf club, having a first flat face loft adjustability range; wherein every portion of a loft window from 25-30 degrees falls within the first loft adjustability range, the second loft adjustability range, the first flat face loft adjustability range, or a combination of these three adjustability ranges. A similar set composition embodiment includes the transition from curved face golf club to flat face golf club occurs in a loft range of 20-30 degrees and the golf club set includes at least five golf clubs having design lofts of 20-40 degrees, including at least two curved face adjustable loft hybrid golf clubs, having a first loft adjustability range and a second loft adjustability range, and at least two flat face adjustable loft golf clubs, having a first flat face loft adjustability range and a second flat face loft adjustability range; wherein every portion of a loft window from 25-35 degrees falls within the first loft adjustability range, the second loft adjustability range, the first flat face loft adjustability range, the second flat face loft adjustability range, or a combination of these four adjustability ranges. Either of these two embodiments may include at least one of the flat face loft adjustable golf clubs having a loft setting that is equal to, or less than, at least one of loft setting of one of the curved face adjustable loft hybrid golf clubs. Even further, at least one of the golf clubs within this loft range may be an adjustable length golf club and has at least one length that is equal to the length of at least one of the other golf clubs within this loft range. Still further, another embodiment has at least two of the golf clubs within this loft range that are adjustable length golf clubs and have at least one length that is equal to the length of at least one of the other golf clubs within this loft range. In yet a further embodiment at least one of the golf clubs within this loft range is an adjustable lie golf club and has at least one lie angle that is equal to the lie angle of at least one of the other four golf clubs within this loft range. Still further, another embodiment has at least two of the golf clubs within this loft range that are adjustable lie golf clubs and have at least one lie angle that is equal to the lie angle of at least one of the other golf clubs within this loft range. In an even further embodiment the two flat face lie adjustable golf clubs have a first flat face lie adjustability range and a second flat face lie adjustability range; wherein every portion of a lie window from 60-63 degrees falls within the first flat face lie adjustability range, the second flat face lie adjustability range, or a combination of these two adjustability ranges. This embodiment may include at least one of the flat face loft adjustable golf clubs having a lie setting that is equal to, or less than, at least one of lie settings of one of the flat face adjustable loft golf club that has a lesser design loft. In yet another embodiment all five of the golf clubs within this loft range have an MOIy, which is the moment of the inertia of the golf club head around an axis through the CG, parallel to the Y-axis, that is within the range of 2200-3000 g*cm2. In a further embodiment all five of the clubs in this particular set have face performance indicators within 20% of the highest face performance indicator. While in another embodiment all five of the clubs in this particular set have face performance indicators within 10% of the highest face performance indicator; and in another embodiment the highest face performance indicator is associated with a flat face golf club head.
Still further, another set composition embodiment, the transition from curved face golf club to flat face golf club occurs in a loft range of 25-35 degrees and the golf club set includes at least six golf clubs having design lofts of 20-44 degrees, including at least two curved face adjustable loft hybrid golf clubs, having a first loft adjustability range and a second loft adjustability range, and at least two flat face adjustable loft golf club, having a first flat face loft adjustability range and a second flat face loft adjustability range; wherein every portion of a loft window from 25-35 degrees falls within the first loft adjustability range, the second loft adjustability range, the first flat face loft adjustability range, the second flat face loft adjustability range, or a combination of these four adjustability ranges. This embodiment may include at least one of the flat face loft adjustable golf clubs having a loft setting that is equal to, or less than, at least one of loft setting of one of the curved face adjustable loft hybrid golf clubs. Even further, at least two of the golf clubs within this loft range may be adjustable length golf clubs having at least one length that is equal to the length of at least one of the other golf clubs within this loft range. Still further, another embodiment has at least two of the golf clubs within this loft range that are adjustable length golf clubs and have at least one length that is equal to the length of at least one of the other golf clubs within this loft range. In yet a further embodiment at least one of the golf clubs within this loft range is an adjustable lie golf club and has at least one lie angle that is equal to the lie angle of at least one of the other five golf clubs within this loft range. Still further, another embodiment has at least two of the golf clubs within this loft range that are adjustable lie golf clubs and have at least one lie angle that is equal to the lie angle of at least one of the other golf clubs within this loft range. In an even further embodiment at least three flat face lie adjustable golf clubs have a first flat face lie adjustability range, a second flat face lie adjustability range, and a third flat face lie adjustability range; wherein every portion of a lie window from 60-63.5 degrees falls within the first flat face lie adjustability range, the second flat face lie adjustability range, the third flat face lie adjustability range, or a combination of these three adjustability ranges. This embodiment may include at least two of the flat face loft adjustable golf clubs having a lie setting that is equal to, or less than, at least one of lie settings of one of the flat face adjustable loft golf club that has a lesser design loft. In yet another embodiment all six of the golf clubs within this loft range have an MOIy, which is the moment of the inertia of the golf club head around an axis through the CG, parallel to the Y-axis, that is within the range of 2200-3000 g*cm2. In a further embodiment all six of the clubs in this particular set have face performance indicators within 20% of the highest face performance indicator. While in another embodiment all six of the clubs in this particular set have face performance indicators within 10% of the highest face performance indicator; and in another embodiment the highest face performance indicator is associated with a flat face golf club head.
While the transition point within a set from a curved face club to a flat face club is important for distance gapping, so to is having a broad window of adjustable loft coverage within the higher lofted clubs of a set. Thus, another embodiment includes at least three golf clubs having design lofts of 30-50 degrees, including at least three flat face adjustable loft golf clubs with a design loft of at least 37 degrees. The three flat face adjustable loft golf clubs have a first flat face loft adjustability range, a second flat face loft adjustability range, and a third flat face loft adjustability range; wherein every portion of a loft window from 40-45 degrees falls within the first flat face loft adjustability range, the second flat face loft adjustability range, and the third flat face loft adjustability range, or a combination of these three adjustability ranges. This embodiment may include at least one of the flat face loft adjustable golf clubs having a loft setting that is equal to, or less than, at least one of loft setting of one of the flat face adjustable loft golf club that has a lesser design loft. Even further, at least one of the golf clubs within this loft range may be an adjustable length golf club and have at least one length that is equal to the length of at least one of the other golf clubs within this loft range. Still further, another embodiment has at least two of the golf clubs within this loft range that are adjustable length golf clubs and have at least one length that is equal to the length of at least one of the other golf clubs within this loft range. In another embodiment the three flat face adjustable loft golf clubs are also lie angle adjustable and have a first flat face lie adjustability range, a second flat face lie adjustability range, and a third flat face lie adjustability range; wherein every portion of a lie window from 62-65 degrees falls within the first flat face lie adjustability range, the second flat face lie adjustability range, and the third flat face lie adjustability range, or a combination of these three adjustability ranges. This embodiment may include at least one of the flat face loft adjustable golf clubs having a lie setting that is equal to, or less than, at least one of lie settings of one of the flat face adjustable loft golf club that has a lesser design loft.
Another high lofted embodiment includes at least five golf clubs having design lofts of 30-50 degrees, including at least four flat face adjustable loft golf clubs with a design loft of at least 30 degrees. The four flat face adjustable loft golf clubs have a first flat face loft adjustability range, a second flat face loft adjustability range, a third flat face loft adjustability range, and a fourth flat face loft adjustability range; wherein every portion of a loft window from 35-45 degrees falls within the first flat face loft adjustability range, the second flat face loft adjustability range, the third flat face loft adjustability range, and the fourth flat face loft adjustability range, or a combination of these four adjustability ranges. This embodiment may include at least one of the flat face loft adjustable golf clubs having a loft setting that is equal to, or less than, at least one of loft setting of one of the flat face adjustable loft golf club that has a lesser design loft. Even further, at least one of the golf clubs within this loft range may be an adjustable length golf club and have at least one length that is equal to the length of at least one of the other golf clubs within this loft range. Still further, another embodiment has at least two of the golf clubs within this loft range that are adjustable length golf clubs and have at least one length that is equal to the length of at least one of the other golf clubs within this loft range. In another embodiment the four flat face adjustable loft golf clubs are also lie angle adjustable and have a first flat face lie adjustability range, a second flat face lie adjustability range, a third flat face lie adjustability range, and a fourth flat face lie adjustability range; wherein every portion of a lie window from 62-65 degrees falls within the first flat face lie adjustability range, the second flat face lie adjustability range, the third flat face lie adjustability range, and the fourth flat face lie adjustability range, or a combination of these four adjustability ranges. This embodiment may include at least one of the flat face loft adjustable golf clubs having a lie setting that is equal to, or less than, at least one of lie settings of one of the flat face adjustable loft golf club that has a lesser design loft.
Further, any of the prior embodiments may also include adjustability of the face performance indicator thereby further controlling the distance gap between the flat face club and the curved face club. One skilled in the art will recognize that such face performance indicator adjustability may be accomplished in a number of ways, but is generally accomplished by adjusting a load on the face or limiting the deflection of the face. In one embodiment the first curved face performance indicator is adjustable from a first curved face PI design value to a first curved face PI weak value, wherein the first curved face PI weak value is equal to, or less than, a first flat face PI value. In another embodiment the first flat face golf club head also includes adjustability from a first flat face PI design value to a first flat face PI strong value, wherein the first flat face PI strong value is at least as great as the first curved face PI weak value. In an even further embodiment the first flat face PI strong value is greater than as the first curved face PI weak value.
Numerous alterations, modifications, and variations of the preferred embodiments disclosed herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art and they are all anticipated and contemplated to be within the spirit and scope of the disclosed length adjustment system. For example, although specific embodiments have been described in detail, those with skill in the art will understand that the preceding embodiments and variations can be modified to incorporate various types of substitute and or additional or alternative materials, relative arrangement of elements, and dimensional configurations. Accordingly, even though only few variations of the length adjustment system are described herein, it is to be understood that the practice of such additional modifications and variations and the equivalents thereof, are within the spirit and scope of the length adjustment system as defined in the following claims. The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or acts for performing the functions in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed.
This application is a divisional of U.S. nonprovisional application Ser. No. 14/227,008, filed on Mar. 27, 2014, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. nonprovisional application Ser. No. 13/750,127, filed on Jan. 25, 2013, which is a continuation of U.S. nonprovisional application Ser. No. 12/961,652, filed on Dec. 7, 2010, and now U.S. Pat. No. 8,382,607, all of which is incorporated by reference as if completely written herein. Other applications and patents concerning golf club heads and components such as U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,773,360, 7,166,040, 7,186,190, 7,407,447, 7,419,441, 6,997,820, 6,800,038, 6,824,475, 7,267,620 and U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 11/025,469, 11/524,031, 11/870,913, 11/025,469, 12/006,060, 11/998,435, 11/642,310, 11/825,138, 11/823,638, 12/004,386, 12/004,387, 11/960,609, 11/960,610, 12/412,493, 13/956,046 and 14/060,948 are incorporated by reference in their entirety.
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| Number | Date | Country | |
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| Child | 15141893 | US | |
| Parent | 12961652 | Dec 2010 | US |
| Child | 13750127 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
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| Parent | 13750127 | Jan 2013 | US |
| Child | 14227008 | US |
