The invention generally relates to interchangeable inserts for golf club heads to optimize performance of adjustable golf clubs.
Golfers make their best shots when provided with golf clubs that fit their playing style. A golfer may want a driver with a particular loft or face angle. For example, a closed face angle may help a golfer who consistently slices to the right. Another golfer with high speed, high accuracy drives may want a driver with a low loft for maximum distance. Accordingly, manufacturers offer adjustable clubs, such as drivers, fairways, and hybrids, with multiple settings for face angle, loft, or both.
Although current golf club designs allow for adjustability for various settings and playing characteristics, including loft and face angle, there can be problematic interrelationships between different settings of such designs. For example, in some clubs, if loft is increased, then when the club is held at address resting on a surface, the club tends to exhibit a closed face angle. If the loft is decreased and the club is held at address resting on a surface, that club will then exhibit an open face angle. A golfer's shot may be influenced by how the club rests at address. Thus, adjusting a setting on an adjustable club can cause the club to launch the ball in unexpected ways, resulting in unpredictable and inaccurate shots.
The invention provides a stabilizing element (also referred to herein as “stabilizing insert”) that is couplable to a sole of a golf club head and configured to minimize unintended changes that may otherwise occur when the golf club is held at address in different positions or when loft or face angle of the club head is adjusted. More specifically, the stabilizing element is configured to mitigate the change in relationship between the club balance point and ground contact point at address, that most often manifests as a rotation to a “rest position” when adjustments are made to the club head. When coupled to the club head, the stabilizing element of the present invention is further configured to provide a lowest region of the sole of the club head to contact the ground in any effective club setting. For a club having the stabilizing element coupled to the sole, the spatial relationship between contact point and balance point is substantially the same in different settings. Thus, a club head that includes the stabilizing element of the present invention does not exhibit a problematic interrelationship between different address positions or adjustable loft and face angle settings, thereby overcoming the drawbacks associated with current adjustable club head designs.
The stabilizing element of the present disclosure is generally separate and discrete from the club head itself such that the stabilizing element is removable (e.g., separable from and recoupable to the club head). For example, the stabilizing element may be releasably coupled to the club head by way of any known releasable fastener or fastening means (e.g., adhesive, snap-fit, press-fit, etc.). Accordingly, a player may selectively attach/detach the stabilizing element as they see fit, as opposed to some club designs which are limited to elements that are built, or otherwise permanently fixed, to the club head. Therefore, in some embodiments, a player may be able to select from a variety of different interchangeable stabilizing elements (e.g., provided in a kit) for use with an adjustable golf club head. While all of the interchangeable stabilizing elements may generally minimize unintended changes that may otherwise occur when the golf club is held at address in different positions or when loft or face angle of the club head is adjusted, each of the stabilizing elements may have different mass properties, graphics, appearance, and the like. Accordingly, the interchangeable nature of the stabilizing element of the present disclosure provides a player with the ability to customize their golf club to suit their preferences or playing characteristics, all while minimizing unintended changes to the club head as a result of club head adjustments.
The removable nature of the stabilizing element further addresses potential drawbacks associated with the manufacturing of club head designs incorporating fixed or built-in components or features. For example, in certain club head designs, a feature may be incorporated into the overall form of the club head, such as a keel integrally formed on the sole of a club head. Manufacturing of such club head designs can be difficult, particularly in instances in which the built-in feature must have a relatively tight tolerance and any variation outside of that tolerance is unacceptable and may negatively impact or prevent the intended function of the built-in feature. For example, certain steps in the manufacturing process of club head may naturally result in a certain amount of variation and inconsistency from club head to club head, such as, for example, casting shrink, heat treatment deformations, stamping spring back, as well as hand polishing.
By providing a separate and discrete stabilizing element, the stabilizing element and golf club head can be manufactured separately under separate conditions and by separate machines and processes. Accordingly, specific manufacturing techniques that provide a high degree of precision and detail, which may otherwise be unavailable or impractical when manufacturing the club head, may be used to manufacture the stabilizing element and yield the tight tolerance that may be required. For example, specific dimensions of the stabilizing element, including, but not limited to, length, width, and height, must generally be within a certain range so as to allow the stabilizing element to function as intended, specifically to minimize unintended changes to the club head, such as mitigate the change in relationship between the club balance point and ground contact point at address, that most often manifests as a rotation to a “rest position” when adjustments are made to the club head.
In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a removable stabilizing insert for a golf club head. The removable stabilizing element includes a first portion couplable to a mounting portion on a sole of a club head and a second portion extending from the first portion and protruding from the sole of the club head when the first portion is coupled to the mounting portion. When a golf club, that includes the club head having the stabilizing insert coupled thereto, is held at address, the stabilizing insert maintains a spatial relationship between a contact point a balance point of the golf club head due to the stabilizing element protruding from the sole.
In some embodiments, the club head is adjustable between at least a first loft setting and a second loft setting. When a golf club, that includes the golf club head, is held at address, the stabilizing insert balances and maintains a heel-toe face angle in either one of the first and second loft settings due to the stabilizing element protruding from the sole.
In some embodiments, the stabilizing insert is releasably couplable to the mounting portion by way of at least one of an adhesive, a snap-fit means, and a press-fit means. Accordingly, the stabilizing insert is selectively removable from the mounting portion and interchangeable with one or more other stabilizing inserts.
In some embodiments, the stabilizing element protrudes from the sole by a height H, has a maximum length L, has a maximum width W, and has a setback S from a front-most point on the club face when a golf club including the club head is held at address. The height H is generally defined as, when the club head is held at address resting on flat ground, the average distance from the ground of points on the perimeter of the stabilizing insert directly fore and aft of a ground contact point. In some embodiments, height H is between about 0.3 mm and about 2 mm. Additionally, in some embodiments, the length L may be between about 2.5 cm and about 12 cm, the width W may be between about 3 mm and about 20 mm, and setback S may be between about 1.5 cm and about 3.5 cm.
In some embodiments, the mounting portion on the sole of the club head may include an aperture extending through the sole of the club head from an exterior of the club head to an interior cavity of the club head. When the stabilizing insert is coupled to the club head, the first portion of the stabilizing insert may be positioned within the interior cavity of the club head and the second portion of the stabilizing insert extends through the aperture to the exterior of the club head. The first portion of the stabilizing element may include a flange member extending along a perimeter of the stabilizing insert. The flange member is configured to contact an interior surface of the sole along a perimeter of the aperture when the stabilizing insert is coupled to the aperture. The second portion may include a protruding member configured to be received within and extend through the aperture to the exterior of the club head. The stabilizing insert is releasably couplable to the aperture by way of at least one of an adhesive, a snap-fit means, and a press-fit means. For example, an adhesive may be placed between the flange member and the interior surface of the sole. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more portions of the stabilizing insert may be configured to interact with the aperture in a snap-fit or press-fit manner. Accordingly, the stabilizing insert may be “dropped in” the mounting portion from within the interior cavity of the club head. Thus, the club head itself may have an access portion, or other portion, for providing a player with access into the interior cavity.
In another embodiment, the mounting portion on the sole of the club head may include a recess on an exterior surface of the sole. When the stabilizing insert is coupled to the club head, the first portion of the stabilizing insert is received within the recess and the second portion of the stabilizing insert extends from the recess. The stabilizing insert is releasably couplable to the aperture by way of at least one of an adhesive, a snap-fit means, and a press-fit means. For example, an adhesive may be placed between the first portion of the stabilizing insert and an interior surface of the recess. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more portions of the stabilizing insert may be configured to interact with the recess in a snap-fit or press-fit manner. Accordingly, the stabilizing insert may be “dropped in” the recess from the exterior of the club head.
In another aspect, a golf club head is provided. The golf club head includes a club head body comprising a heel, a toe, a sole having a mounting portion, a crown, and a face. The golf club head further includes a removable stabilizing insert coupled to the mounting portion and protruding from the sole. When a golf club, that includes the club head having the stabilizing insert coupled thereto, is held at address, the stabilizing insert maintains a spatial relationship between a contact point a balance point of the golf club head due to the stabilizing insert protruding from the sole.
In some embodiments, the club head is adjustable between at least a first loft setting and a second loft setting. When a golf club, that includes the golf club head, is held at address, the stabilizing insert balances and maintains a heel-toe face angle in either one of the first and second loft settings due to the stabilizing insert protruding from the sole. The sole may further be configured such that, when the club head is held at address in either of a first or second configuration such that the face of the club head has the first or second loft setting, respectively, the club head makes contact with the ground only within the removable stabilizing insert.
The stabilizing insert is releasably coupled to the mounting portion. In some embodiments, the stabilizing insert is releasably coupled to the mounting portion by way of at least one of an adhesive, a snap-fit means, and a press-fit means. Accordingly, the stabilizing insert is selectively removable from the mounting portion and interchangeable with one or more other stabilizing inserts.
In some embodiments, the mounting portion on the sole of the club head may include an aperture extending through the sole of the club head from an exterior of the club head to an interior cavity of the club head. When the stabilizing insert is coupled to the club head, the first portion of the stabilizing insert may be positioned within the interior cavity of the club head and the second portion of the stabilizing insert extends through the aperture to the exterior of the club head. The first portion of the stabilizing element may include a flange member extending along a perimeter of the stabilizing insert. The flange member is configured to contact an interior surface of the sole along a perimeter of the aperture when the stabilizing insert is coupled to the aperture. The second portion may include a protruding member configured to be received within and extend through the aperture to the exterior of the club head. The stabilizing insert is releasably couplable to the aperture by way of at least one of an adhesive, a snap-fit means, and a press-fit means. For example, an adhesive may be placed between the flange member and the interior surface of the sole. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more portions of the stabilizing insert may be configured to interact with the aperture in a snap-fit or press-fit manner. Accordingly, the stabilizing insert may be “dropped in” the mounting portion from within the interior cavity of the club head. Thus, the club head itself may have an access portion, or other portion, for providing a player with access into the interior cavity.
In another embodiment, the mounting portion on the sole of the club head may include a recess on an exterior surface of the sole. When the stabilizing insert is coupled to the club head, the first portion of the stabilizing insert is received within the recess and the second portion of the stabilizing insert extends from the recess. The stabilizing insert is releasably couplable to the aperture by way of at least one of an adhesive, a snap-fit means, and a press-fit means. For example, an adhesive may be placed between the first portion of the stabilizing insert and an interior surface of the recess. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more portions of the stabilizing insert may be configured to interact with the recess in a snap-fit or press-fit manner. Accordingly, the stabilizing insert may be “dropped in” the recess from the exterior of the club head.
In some embodiments, the stabilizing element protrudes from the sole by a height H, has a maximum length L, has a maximum width W, and has a setback S from a front-most point on the club face when a golf club including the club head is held at address. The height H is generally defined as, when the club head is held at address resting on flat ground, the average distance from the ground of points on the perimeter of the stabilizing insert directly fore and aft of a ground contact point. In some embodiments, height H is between about 0.3 mm and about 2 mm. Additionally, in some embodiments, the length L may be between about 2.5 cm and about 12 cm, the width W may be between about 3 mm and about 20 mm, and setback S may be between about 1.5 cm and about 3.5 cm.
The invention generally relates to removable inserts for golf club heads to optimize performance of golf clubs. In some embodiments, the invention relates to a feature on the sole of a club head that protrudes and stabilizes the club head in two or more positions when a club is at address. In some embodiments described herein, the present invention provides a stabilizing element (also referred to herein as “stabilizing insert”) that is couplable to a sole of a golf club head and configured to minimize unintended changes that may otherwise occur when the golf club is held at address in different positions or when loft or face angle of the club head is adjusted. The stabilizing insert includes a first portion couplable to a mounting portion on a sole of a club head and a second portion extending from the first portion. When the stabilizing insert is coupled to the club head, the second portion protrudes from the sole of the club head. When coupled to the club head, the stabilizing element is configured to minimize unintended changes when the golf club is held at address in different positions or when loft or face angle of the club head is adjusted.
For example, in some embodiments, when a golf club, that includes the club head having the stabilizing insert coupled thereto, is held at address, the stabilizing insert at least maintains a spatial relationship between a contact point a balance point of the golf club head due to the stabilizing element protruding from the sole. More specifically, the stabilizing element is configured to mitigate the change in relationship between the club balance point and ground contact point at address, that most often manifests as a rotation to a “rest position” when adjustments are made to the club head. When coupled to the club head, the stabilizing element of the present invention is further configured to provide a lowest region of the sole of the club head to contact the ground in any effective club setting. For a club having the stabilizing element coupled to the sole, the spatial relationship between contact point and balance point is substantially the same in different settings. Thus, a club head that includes the stabilizing element of the present invention does not exhibit a problematic interrelationship between different address positions or adjustable loft and face angle settings, thereby overcoming the drawbacks associated with current adjustable club head designs.
The stabilizing element of the present disclosure is generally separate and discrete from the club head itself, such that the stabilizing element is removable (e.g., separable from and recoupable to the club head). For example, the stabilizing element may be releasably coupled to the club head by way of any known releasable fastener or fastening means (e.g., adhesive, snap-fit, press-fit, etc.). Accordingly, a player may selectively attach/detach the stabilizing element as they see fit, as opposed to some club designs which are limited to elements that are built, or otherwise permanently fixed, to the club head. Therefore, in some embodiments, a player may be able to select from variety of different interchangeable stabilizing elements (e.g., provided in a kit) for use with an adjustable golf club head. While all of the interchangeable stabilizing elements may generally minimize unintended changes that may otherwise occur when the golf club is held at address in different positions or when loft or face angle of the club head is adjusted, each of the stabilizing elements may have different mass properties, graphics, appearance, and the like. Accordingly, the interchangeable nature of the stabilizing element of the present disclosure provides a player with the ability to customize their golf club to suit their preferences or playing characteristics, all while minimizing unintended changes to the club head as a result of club head adjustments.
The removable nature of the stabilizing element further addresses potential drawbacks associated with the manufacturing of club head designs incorporating fixed or built-in components or features. For example, in certain club head designs, a feature may be incorporated into the overall form of the club head, such as a keel integrally formed on the sole of a club head. Manufacturing of such club head designs can be difficult, particularly in instances in which the built-in feature must have a relatively tight tolerance and any variation outside of that tolerance is unacceptable and may negatively impact or prevent the intended function of the built-in feature. For example, certain steps in the manufacturing process of club head may naturally result in a certain amount of variation and inconsistency from club head to club head, such as, for example, casting shrink, heat treatment deformations, stamping spring back, as well as hand polishing.
By providing a separate and discrete stabilizing element, the stabilizing element and golf club head can be manufactured separately under separate conditions and by separate machines and processes. Accordingly, specific manufacturing techniques that provide a high degree of precision and detail, which may otherwise be unavailable or impractical when manufacturing the club head, may be used to manufacture the stabilizing element and yield the tight tolerance that may be required. For example, specific dimensions of the stabilizing element, including, but not limited to, length, width, and height, must generally be within a certain range so as to allow the stabilizing element to function as intended, specifically to minimize unintended changes to the club head, such as mitigate the change in relationship between the club balance point and ground contact point at address, that most often manifests as a rotation to a “rest position” when adjustments are made to the club head.
When a club is at address resting on a surface, grip point 187 and contact point 42 together define an axis around which motion of the golf club is relatively unrestrained. If balance line 161 intersects the sole behind the contact point, the club will rock open. If balance line 161 intersects the sole in front of the contact point, the club will rock closed.
Thus, the invention provides club head 101 having a sole with a contour or feature such that, if the club is held at address in a variety of orientations, then the contact point is within a controlled, limited distance from the point at which the balance line intersects the sole. Accordingly, the club can be held at address, yet in two different orientations at different times. For example, a first address position can be offset from a second address position by a slight tilt (e.g., either in a heel-toe direction, a fore-aft direction, or a combination thereof) and the contact point will be within the contour or feature in each address positions. In some embodiments, the sole is configured such that, when a golf club including the club head is held at address in either of a first or second position, the club head makes contact with a surface only within a stabilizing element as described herein.
Thus the invention allows a club to be held in different address positions (e.g., as a player learns or experiments, due to ground inconsistencies, as one club is used by players of different height) and obtain a consistent, predictable club head orientation. Due to the fact that the club head makes contact with the ground within a controlled region below the club balance point, the club will not “rock” into unintended orientations when held at address resting on a surface.
In certain embodiments, the invention provides club head 101 having a sole with a contour or feature such that, if the club head is set in a variety of loft settings, then the contact point is within a controlled, limited distance from the point at which the balance line intersects the sole. Club head 101 can have an adjustable loft capable of being set in at least a first and second position. With the loft set in either of the first or second position, the club head can rest on the feature in one of at least a first and second disposition allowing a player to grip the club with a comfortable, relaxed grip in each position and with the face angle maintained constant between each position.
The invention allows a player to adjust a loft setting, hold the club at address resting on a surface, and obtain a consistent, predictable face angle. This benefit gives a player a reliable reference point when setting up a shot in that the player can rest the club head on a surface and see the loft setting and the face angle (while the player holds the club with a comfortable, relaxed grip). The player can then grip the club and pick it up to make a shot, thereby obtaining the same relative face angle for every shot.
As shown in
As shown in
For the purposes of describing region 107 according to the discussion below, a rear sole boundary 213 is defined as a plane a distance E back from aft boundary 211 that is the same as a distance E between fore boundary 205 and face-sole boundary 203. The rear-most point of club head 101 defines a vertical plane at the back 217 of the head, parallel to the plane at the front 201 of the head, and both orthogonal to plane 251.
Generally a club head 101 may have a transition between a face and a sole having length T (e.g., a rounded region, angled region, stepped region, or sharp region). Face-sole boundary 203 marks an edge between that transition and the substantially downward-facing sole. Rear sole boundary 213 is defined as the same distance E from aft boundary 211 as the distance E between fore boundary 205 and face-sole boundary 203. Fore-aft line 255, perpendicular to front plane 201 and lying along ground plane 251 through a club contact point 42 can be used to measure these distances.
Turning now to
As shown in
A length or extent E of fore sole 302 can be defined as a setback S of region 107 minus a length T of the face-sole transition. Alternatively, an extent E of fore sole 302 can be defined as an arbitrary measurement forward from fore boundary 205. Alternatively, in some embodiments, an extent E of fore sole 302 is equal to a width W of region 107. An extent E of aft sole 502 is, by definition, equal to an extent E of fore sole 302.
When club head 101 is at address, the average distance of fore sole 302 and aft sole 502 along fore-aft line 255 from ground plane 251 is shown by average sole height line 444. The vertical distance between height line 444 and ground plane 251 can define a height H of region 107.
Region 107 can be described with reference to a length L measured in a heel-toe direction.
Thus, according to the foregoing discussion, club head 101 according to embodiments of the invention generally has a protruding region 107 on the sole having a width W, a height H, and a length L, and being spaced away from the face of the club by a setback S.
Generally, S is greater than about 0.5 cm, L is more than about 0.5 cm, W is more than about 0.5 mm, and H is more than about 0.1 mm. In certain embodiments, S is between about 2.5 cm and about 3.5 cm; L is between about 2.5 cm and about 12 cm; W is between about 3 mm and about 25 mm; and H is between about 0.3 mm and about 2 mm. For example, S can be between about 2.8 cm and about 3.3 cm; L can be greater than about 1 cm; W can be between about 9 mm and about 20 mm; and H can be between about 0.1 mm and about 3 mm. Any combination of measurements disclosed herein is within the scope of the invention. For example, in certain embodiments, S is more than about 2.5 cm; L is greater than about 1 cm; W is between about 9 mm and about 20 mm; and H is between about 0.3 mm and about 2 mm.
Golf club head 101 having region 107 according to embodiments of the invention exhibits desirable behaviors, particularly an adjustable loft that does not affect the face angle when the club is at address.
As shown in
Without being bound by any theory of operation,
As shown in
As discussed above, region 107 can be described with reference to length, width, height, and setback. Independently or additionally region 107 can be described according to other aspects of club head 101. Club head 101 will generally exhibit certain geometric properties as described herein.
Fore boundary 205 intersects ground plane 251 defining an intersection line. A front plane 403 intersects this line at a setback distance S from the front of the club, defining a fore angle 703 of X degrees with the ground. Front plane 403 is tangent to the sole.
Aft boundary 211 intersects ground plane 251 along a line. A back plane 407 intersects this line and is tangent to the sole. Back plane 407 defines a back angle 707 of Y degrees with ground plane 251.
When club head 101 is at address and resting on a plane 251, the sole makes contact with the surface within region 107 and X+Y is greater than 0°. In certain embodiments, X+Y is between about 0.01° and about 40°. Setback S and width W can each independently be any measurement. For example, setback S can be between about 5 mm and about 80 mm. Width W can be between about 1 mm and about 60 mm. Preferably, S is between about 20 mm and about 40 mm, e.g., between about 30 mm and about 35 mm, while W is between about 5 mm and about 30 mm, e.g., between about 5 mm and about 15 mm or between about 15 mm and about 25 mm. Preferably X+Y is between about 3° and about 23° (e.g., between about 5° and about 12°).
In a preferred embodiment, where club head 101 is part of a club having a loft that is adjustable from a minimum loft P to a maximum loft Q, the following will hold:
(X+Y)>(Q−P) (1)
As shown in equation 1, fore angle 703 and back angle 707 together preferably define a range equal to or greater than the total range of adjustable loft for club head 101. Accordingly, in certain embodiments, a golf club is provided in which the loft can be set at two or more effective settings including a setting at about 8.5° loft and a setting at about 11.5° (range of adjustable loft is at least about 3°), and a sole of the club head has a region 107 with boundaries that define a front plane 403 and a back plane 407 (both tangent to the sole) creating angles with the ground that together are at least about 3°.
Region 107 of club head 101 will generally satisfy at least one of the foregoing descriptions. A variety of embodiments are provided by the invention. For example,
In some embodiments, region 107 is provided by a separate component. For example,
In another example,
In another example,
As will be described in greater detail herein, the mounting portion 919 may include different embodiments. For example, in one embodiment, the mounting portion 919 resembles a cavity or recess defined on the exterior of the club head, shaped and/or sized to receive a portion of the insert 921 within and retain the insert 921 by a releasable fastener or other fastening means (e.g., adhesive, press-fit, snap-fit, etc.). In other embodiments, the mounting portion 919 may include an aperture formed on the sole extending from an interior cavity to an exterior surface of the club head. In this embodiment, the insert 921 is configured to be mounted to the aperture 919 from within the interior cavity of the club head, such that a portion of the insert 921 is positioned within the interior cavity while another portion extends through the aperture 919 and protrudes from the sole. The insert 921 may be coupled to the aperture by a releasable fastener or other fastening means (e.g., adhesive, press-fit, snap-fit, etc.). Accordingly, in this embodiment, the stabilizing insert 921 may be “dropped in” the mounting portion from within the interior cavity of the club head. Thus, the club head itself may have an access portion, or other portion, for providing a player with access into the interior cavity.
As shown in
The stabilizing insert 921, similar to the region 107 described previously herein, has dimensions or contours such that, if a golf club including the club head 101 is held at address in a variety of orientations, then the contact point is within a controlled, limited distance from the point at which the balance line intersects the sole. Accordingly, the club can be held at address, yet in two different orientations at different times. For example, a first address position can be offset from a second address position by a slight tilt (e.g., either in a heel-toe direction, a fore-aft direction, or a combination thereof) and the contact point will be within the contour or feature in each address positions. In some embodiments, the stabilizing insert 921 is configured such that, when a golf club including the club head 101 is held at address in either of a first or second position, the club head 101 makes contact with a surface only within the boundaries of the stabilizing insert 921.
Accordingly, the invention allows a club to be held in different address positions (e.g., as a player learns or experiments, due to ground inconsistencies, as one club is used by players of different height) and obtain a consistent, predictable club head orientation. Due to the fact that the club head 101 makes contact with the ground within a controlled region below the club balance point, the club will not “rock” into unintended orientations when held at address resting on a surface.
In certain embodiments, the stabilizing element is configured such that, if the club head 101 is set in a variety of loft settings, then the contact point is within a controlled, limited distance from the point at which the balance line intersects the sole. Club head 101 can have an adjustable loft capable of being set in at least a first and second position. With the loft set in either of the first or second position, the club head can rest on the feature in one of at least a first and second disposition allowing a player to grip the club with a comfortable, relaxed grip in each position and with the face angle maintained constant between each position. Thus, due to the stabilizing element 921, a player may adjust a loft setting, hold the club at address resting on a surface, and obtain a consistent, predictable face angle. This benefit gives a player a reliable reference point when setting up a shot in that the player can rest the club head on a surface and see the loft setting and the face angle (while the player holds the club with a comfortable, relaxed grip). The player can then grip the club and pick it up to make a shot, thereby obtaining the same relative face angle for every shot.
As shown in
Generally, the stabilizing insert 921 can be described with reference to width W, height H, and length L as maximum width W, maximum height H, and maximum length L, and setback S as minimum setback S. The height H is defined as, when the club head 101 is held at address resting on flat ground, the average distance from the ground of points on the perimeter of the stabilizing insert 921 directly fore and aft of a ground contact point (e.g., see
Generally, S is greater than about 0.5 cm, L is more than about 0.5 cm, W is more than about 0.5 mm, and H is more than about 0.1 mm. In certain embodiments, S is between about 1.5 cm and about 3.5 cm; L is between about 2.5 cm and about 12 cm; W is between about 3 mm and about 25 mm; and H is between about 0.3 mm and about 2 mm. For example, S can be between about 2.8 cm and about 3.3 cm; L can be greater than about 1 cm; W can be between about 9 mm and about 20 mm; and H can be between about 0.1 mm and about 3 mm. Any combination of measurements disclosed herein is within the scope of the invention. For example, in certain embodiments, S is more than about 2.5 cm; L is greater than about 1 cm; W is between about 9 mm and about 20 mm; and H is between about 0.3 mm and about 2 mm.
A golf club head 101 having the stabilizing insert 921 according to embodiments of the invention exhibits desirable behaviors, particularly an adjustable loft that does not affect the face angle when the club is at address. For example, specific dimensions of the stabilizing insert 921, including, but not limited to, length L, width W, and height H, and setback S, must generally be within a certain range so as to allow the stabilizing insert 921 to function as intended, specifically to minimize unintended changes to the club head, such as maintain a constant face angle, regardless of changes to a loft setting of the club head.
In addition to maintaining a club face angle despite adjustments to the club head, the removable stabilizing inserts 921 of the present invention provide additional benefits. For example, the removable nature of the stabilizing insert addresses potential drawbacks associated the manufacturing of club head designs incorporating fixed or built-in components or features.
As previously described, certain club head designs include features that may be incorporated into the overall form of the club head, such as a keel integrally formed on the sole of a club head. The manufacturing of such club head designs can be difficult, particularly in instances in which the built-in feature must have a relatively tight tolerance and any variation outside of that tolerance is unacceptable and may negatively impact or prevent the intended function of built-in feature. By providing a separate and discrete stabilizing insert, the stabilizing insert and golf club head of the present invention can be manufactured separately under separate conditions and by separate machines and processes. Accordingly, specific manufacturing techniques that provide a high degree of precision and detail, which may otherwise be unavailable or impractical when manufacturing the club head, may be used to manufacture the stabilizing insert and yield the tight tolerance that may be required. For example, the stabilizing insert can be manufactured by a variety of different machines and techniques, including, but not limited to, CNC machined, forged, metal injection molding, cast, injection molded, and the like. Accordingly, the specific dimensions of the stabilizing insert, including, but not limited to, length, width, height, and setback, which must generally be within a certain range so as to allow the stabilizing insert to function as intended, can be maintained.
Furthermore, because the stabilizing insert and club head are separately manufactured, a plurality of interchangeable stabilizing inserts can be manufactured (e.g., provided in a kit), wherein a player may further customize and personalize their club head to suit their preferences or playing characteristics based on the interchangeability of the inserts. For example, while each stabilizing element includes the same dimensions, the removable nature allows for customization of other properties of individual inserts, such as varying the mass properties between inserts so as to allow for modification of mass characteristics of the club head (e.g., a player switches out different inserts depending on desired weight and resulting playing characteristic), different graphics and appearance, and the like. Accordingly, the removable nature of the stabilizing inserts of the present invention provides a player with the ability to customize their golf club to suit their preferences or playing characteristics, all while minimizing unintended changes to the club head as a result of club head adjustments.
The stabilizing insert 921 of the present invention may be made of any suitable material, including metals, non-metallic materials, composites, ceramics, polymers, and the like. In some embodiments, the stabilizing insert may be formed of carbon steel, stainless steel, carbon fiber, tungsten, tungsten loaded polymer, combinations of one or more of these materials, and the like. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the stabilizing insert may be formed of a flexible material to allow some bending or flex. In other embodiments, some portions of the stabilizing insert may be formed of stiffer materials. In some embodiments, one or more portions of the stabilizing element may be formed of a metal material, such as aluminum or steel, and forged into the desired shape. In some embodiments, one or more portions of the stabilizing element may be formed using molding techniques, such as injection molding.
As show in
As shown in
Upon being coupled to the aperture 919a, the protruding member 925 is configured to extend through the aperture 919a to the exterior 109 of the club head 101. Accordingly, the protruding member 925 is configured to protrude from the sole 102 by a height H. Accordingly, at least the protruding member 925 has the specific set of dimensions, including, but not limited to, height H that it protrudes from the sole, a width W, a length L (measured in heel-toe direction), and being spaced away from the face of the club by a setback S.
The recess 935 generally includes similar dimensions as that of the base member 937 of the stabilizing insert 921b. For example, the recess 935 generally has substantially the same length L and width W (may be slightly larger for accommodation) as the base member 937. Furthermore, the recess 935 is formed along a portion of the sole 102 and spaced away from the face 106 of the club head 101 by a setback S distance. The recess 935 may have a depth sufficient to allow the protruding member 939 to protrude from the sole 102 within the specific range previously described herein (e.g., 0.3 mm to 2 mm).
As shown in
Upon being coupled to the recess 935, the protruding member 939 protrudes from the sole 102 by a height H. Accordingly, at least the protruding member 929 has the specific set of dimensions, including, but not limited to, height H that it protrudes from the sole, a width W, a length L (measured in heel-toe direction), and being spaced away from the face of the club by a setback S.
In various embodiments, region 107 (including the stabilizing insert of
As generally understood, a set of golf clubs will typically include 14 clubs, each intended for hitting the golf ball a certain range. For example, a golfer may have a driver, a 2 wood, a 5 wood, 3-9 irons, 3 wedges, and a putter. The variations are as numerous as the temperaments of the players. Some golfers will have a driver, a wood, a hybrid, six irons, four wedges, and a putter.
Drivers are used for very long shots—drives—off the tee whereas wedges are used for short shots. With a given club, a golfer will be able to reliably make good shots over a certain range of distances. While the precise numbers will vary from golfer to golfer, Table 1 lists an exemplary set of golf clubs and, for each, shows the distance range within which the club will perform reliably for the golfer.
As can be seen from Table 1, club designers have engineered clubs that, taken as a set, provide reliable performance over a wide range of distances.
However, Table 1 lists 15 clubs and PGA rules allow 14 clubs in a set. So choosing a set of golf clubs requires choosing a range of distances for which your clubs provide poor coverage. For example, many golfers will choose to have all the clubs listed in Table 1 but the 5 wood. The hypothetical golfer of Table 1, leaving behind their 5 wood, would have no club well-suited to 200 yard shots.
Some golfers may try to fill their distance gap by using a hybrid. Table 1 shows an exemplary club set including two hybrids, and a set of ranges that a hypothetical golfer may be able to reliably hit the ball using those clubs.
As can be seen in Table 2, this set has a problematic gap for shots that must travel 165 to 180 yards. Table 3 shows another exemplary set that a golfer may employ.
The set shown in Table 3 is plagued by a gap at 180 to 195 yards.
Thus, for many golfers, a set of clubs inherently defines a gap in the distances that their shots can cover. This gap has been described as the ‘distance gap’. The persistence of the distance gap problem is evidenced by the tips that golfers exchange on the course, “Choke up on the handle of your 5 wood to take 5 yards off!” or, “Strengthen your grip on your 4 iron to add 5 yards.”
In one embodiment, the invention generally provides a set of golf clubs, each having a shaft with a club head and a grip on opposing ends. At least one club of the set is an adjustable club in that it has an adjustment mechanism operable to provide two or more effective loft settings. The adjustable club may include a stabilizing mechanism that gives the club the same face angle while having any of the two or more effective loft settings. By these means, the club can play (at least) “double duty” in a golfer's set. This way, a golfer can get clubs suited for 15 different types of shots out of 14 individual clubs. Table 4 lists an exemplary club set made to include an adjustable hybrid.
While generally presented here in terms of the longer-range clubs (e.g., woods, hybrids, and irons), any club can be made adjustable. Further, the tables presented herein are illustrative of ranges that some hypothetical golfer may get out of their personal set of clubs, and it will be appreciated that the invention provides the operative idea of a set of clubs for any golfer, whatever range values obtain for that golfer for their clubs personally. Thus, the specific ranges shown herein are not limiting and merely illustrate the operation of the inventive concept.
For example, some golfer out there may derive great satisfaction from their 3 wood and their 5 wood. This golfer may normally forgo the use of a 3 iron, and thus have a problematic distance gap between their 4 iron and their 5 wood. Make use of an adjustable club of the invention, this hypothetical golfer may solve this problem by equipping themselves with an adjustable hybrid having a 25° loft angle and a 22° loft angle, and leaving behind both their 3 iron and their 4 iron. This golfer's golf bag would then include the clubs listed in Table 5.
To contrast the example given with respect to Table 5, some other golfer may personally prefer to not use hybrids. This other golfer has traditionally gone to the course without a 5 wood, instead just carrying a 3 wood, a 3 iron, a 4 iron, and so on. This golfer may now obtain an adjustable wood according to the invention, the adjustable wood providing the role of a 3 wood and a 5 wood. This golfer's set is represented as now listed in table 6.
The ability of a club head of the invention to provide two or more reliable ranges for a given golfer relates to the provision of a stabilizing element, generally protruding from the sole of a club. The invention proceeds from the insight that prior art adjustable clubs provided poor playability due to poor control over face angle when a loft angle was adjusted.
To contrast the example given with respect to Table 5, some other golfer may personally prefer to not use hybrids. This other golfer has traditionally gone to the course without a 5 wood, instead just carrying a 3 wood, a 3 iron, a 4 iron, and so on. This golfer may now obtain an adjustable wood according to the invention, the adjustable wood providing the role of a 3 wood and a 5 wood. This golfer's set is represented as now listed in table 6.
The invention generally relates to a feature on the sole of a club head that protrudes and stabilizes the club head in two or more positions when a club is at address. In various embodiments, region 107 is provided on drivers, hybrids, woods, and irons. By providing a club head including a stabilizing element of the invention, a club can be made to provide a golfer with two or more reliable ranges for shot distances.
The ability of a club head of the invention to provide two or more reliable ranges for a given golfer relates to the provision of a stabilizing element, generally protruding from the sole of a club. The invention proceeds from the insight that prior art adjustable clubs provided poor playability due to poor control over face angle when a loft angle was adjusted.
By providing a club head including a stabilizing element of the invention, a club can be made to provide a golfer with two or more reliable ranges for shot distances. To illustrate, a golfer may include in their bag the fourteen clubs listed in Table 7 to take advantage of the invention.
The set shown in Table 7 includes an adjustable hybrid having at least two loft settings: 29° and 25°.
Golf rules generally allow fourteen clubs in a bag. Many golfers experience a distance-gapping problem only among or within certain parts of their sets. In some embodiments, the invention solves a golfer's distance-gapping problem by providing a set of golf clubs including fewer than fourteen clubs (e.g., two clubs, three clubs, four clubs, . . . ) for the golfer to use with other of their clubs to fill their bag. One insight of the invention is that the beneficial results of the set include the results provided by replacing the club that is “adjacent” to the distance-gap in a golfer's range list. Thus there is great value to many golfers in providing a set of two or three clubs, at least one of which is an adjustable club according to the invention.
For example, a golfer having the clubs listed in Table 1 may purchase a set including an adjustable wood and two adjustable hybrids. This golfer may then use this new set of adjustable clubs instead of their 3 wood, 5 wood, 3 iron, and 4 iron, to arrive at the clubs listed in Table 8.
That is to say, a set of clubs according to the invention can be fewer than 14 or 14 clubs. Table 9 gives another exemplary set of 14 clubs according to the invention.
In certain embodiments, a wood is provided in which the loft can be set at two or more effective settings including a setting at about 13° loft and a setting at about 16° (range of adjustable loft is at least about 3°), and a sole of the club head has a region 107 with boundaries that define a front plane 403 and a back plane 407 (both tangent to the sole) creating angles with the ground that together are at least about 3°. In certain embodiments, a hybrid is provided in which the loft can be set at two or more effective settings including a setting at about 16° loft and a setting at about 25° (range of adjustable loft is at least about 9°), and a sole of the club head has a region 107 with boundaries that define a front plane 403 and a back plane 407 (both tangent to the sole) creating angles with the ground that together are at least about 9°. In certain embodiments, an iron is provided in which the loft can be set at two or more effective settings and a sole of the club head has a region 107 with boundaries that define a front plane 403 and a back plane 407 (both tangent to the sole) creating angles with the ground that together are at least the difference between the two effective settings.
The inventive method of providing a set of golf clubs can be employed to beneficially improve a golfer's game. The method includes receiving information about a golfer and the hitting ranges with the golfer's clubs. With this information, one identifies a distance gap in the golfer's hitting ranges.
Then, one may select an adjustable club of the invention that covers the golfer's distance gap. A set of clubs including the selected club is provided to the golfer. Table 10 shows an exemplary set that may be provided to a hypothetical golfer by methods of the invention.
The method may be implemented through the use of a computer, either within a store or other facility or over the Internet. Thus in some embodiments, the method includes saving the information to a tangible, non-transitory memory operably coupled to a processor in a computer apparatus and using the processor in the identifying, determining, and selecting steps.
In certain aspects, the invention provides methods and systems for making, shipping, stocking, and selling golf clubs requiring only a single club head that satisfies consumer demand for different lofts and aesthetic features. For each of a plurality of customers, a golf club can be provided having a selected color, graphical depiction, loft, and/or face angle.
Due to the fact that a single club head of the invention can provide a club with a variety of features, such as color, graphics, and settings for loft or face angle, a store can stock fewer different club heads than would be required if only prior art club heads were available. Thus the invention allows for a configurable golf club to be provided that allows, for example, a store to sell golf clubs having a large number of configurations while only stocking a small number of club heads, shafts, and related hardware.
Accordingly, a golf club head having a sole with region 107 according to embodiments of the invention is provided for use with reconfigurable and interchangeable combinations of golf club parts (e.g., shafts, heads, ferrules, etc.). Mechanisms and methods for setting different club configurations are described in Interchangeable Shaft System, U.S. Pub. 2009/0197694; Interchangeable Shaft System, U.S. Pub. 2009/0264214; Interchangeable Shaft System, U.S. Pat. No. 7,699,717; Interchangeable Shaft System, U.S. Pub. 2011/0143854; Interchangeable Shaft and Club Head Connection System, U.S. Pat. No. 7,878,921; Interchangeable Shaft and Club Head Connection System, U.S. Pub. 2010/0261543; Interchangeable Shaft and Club head Connection System, U.S. Pub. 2009/0247316; Quick Release Connection System for Golf Clubs, U.S. Pub. 2008/0125239; Two-Part Hosel Connection System for Golf Clubs, U.S. Pub. 2008/0254909; and Interchangeable Shaft for a Golf Club, U.S. Pat. No. 7,476,160, the contents of each of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.
Due to the fact that a club head of the invention prevents unwanted deviations from an intended orientation when held at address in different positions, a club head having a sole with region 107 according to embodiments of the invention is provided for use with any golf club (i.e., clubs that are not interchangeable, adjustable, or reconfigurable, as well as those that are). The invention provides a club head that can be permanently affixed to a shaft as well as other non-adjustable clubs.
Due to the fact that a club head of the invention enables a supplier (e.g., a store, pro-shop, wholesaler, sales rep, manufacturer, etc.) to offer a wider variety of clubs while stocking fewer independent parts, the invention provides the ability for a supplier to carry a greater variety of parts as defined by some other property, such as color, model, or trim level. For example, because a supplier can fit a customer with a driver having any loft and face angle using a single club head, a certain driver type can be provided for a large variety of customers using only a single stock-keeping unit (SKU) in a database or inventory system of the supplier. This means, relative to a supplier not using a club head of the invention, a large number of SKUs are “freed up” and can be used for other products. Similarly, a large amount of display space and storage space in the supply chain is likewise made available. Thus, these freed up resources can be used to provide clubs having, for example, a variety of colors.
Club heads of the invention enable suppliers to provide a variety of different clubs (e.g., requiring different SKUs, for example, one for each different color), where before, suppliers were limited to using those resources (SKUs and space) to carry enough versions of a single club head to satisfy the fitting requirements of a number of different customers.
The invention results in unexpected efficiencies in the manufacturing process because a club head can be brought to market having a variety of fits with only one form factor, a single manufacturing tool (e.g., mold) is required, thus lowering the cost of bringing a product to market. The single manufacturing tool can be used to produce club heads having a variety of colors, finishes, or “trim levels.” Generally, trim level includes a brand name, decorative element, functional accessories, price, or combination thereof. For example, a driver may be sold having a single club head, but given both an SE and LE (e.g., “special edition” and “luxury edition”) trim level, including silver stripes and a rubber grip on the SE model while having gold stripes, leather grip, and electronic components on the LE model. Also, the single manufacturing tool can be used to produce club heads having a variety of colors.
Because club heads that fit a variety of golfers can be made with a single tool, resources are freed to make club heads in a variety of colors and, more specifically, color can be provided in smaller runs, e.g., changed on a batch-by-batch basis. In some embodiments, the invention provides a set of club heads having a shared form factor and in a variety of colors. Club heads can be primary and secondary colors, fluorescent colors, regular or irregular patterns (e.g., plaid, speckled, tie-dyed, marbleized). Club heads can be made in limited runs having a distinctive color (e.g., the trademark color of a partnering luxury goods manufacturer or the trademark stripes or plaid pattern of a corporate partner).
Due to the fact that a manufacturer can offer a whole line of a particular club (e.g., a particular driver) to fit a variety of customers, by providing a single head, and that the color can be varied easily among the heads, manufacturers can offer distributors great flexibility and extensibility in the colors they offer to their customers. Due to this flexibility and extensibility, in certain embodiments, a retail store can offer clubs in small lots having truly customized colors. For example, a golf team or group can be provided with a set of clubs in which all of the club heads match the official colors of the group.
The invention provides personalized or customized color heads. Since all of a club head for a particular club can be provided by a single tool, manufacturing resources are greatly freed up by the invention. Thus, a manufacturer can repurpose its available resources, for example, to provide personalized customized color. In certain embodiments, a customer may choose a color (e.g., from a book, through an HTML color picker, etc.) or provide information about a color (e.g., provide a specimen, Pantone number, etc.) and a manufacturer can produce one or more club heads having the corresponding color.
A club head can be made having region 107 by any method known in the art. Club head 101 can be molded, cast, forged, or assembled from components by adhesives, welding, snap-fit, press-fit, or any other method known, or combination of any of the foregoing. Exemplary clubs and methods of making them are discussed in Multi-Piece Golf Club head with Improved Inertia, U.S. Pub. 2010/0056297; Golf Club Head with Moveable Insert, U.S. Pub. 2010/0105499; Golf Club Head, U.S. Pat. No. 7,803,065; Metal Wood Golf Club Head, U.S. Pub. 2008/0227564; Golf Club Head With Multi-Component Construction, U.S. Pub. 2011/0152003; Golf Club Heads, U.S. Pub. 2011/0151989; Method of Making Golf Clubs, U.S. Pub. 2011/0277313; and Method of Making Golf Clubs, U.S. Pub. 2010/0298065, the contents of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Club head 101 can have any combination of one or more rib, weight, or other structural element beneficial to playability of the club.
A club head of the invention can include additional weights or moveable (e.g., rotatable or sliding) or interchangeable weight members, for example, to optimize a center of gravity or a moment of inertia of club head 101. Any method known in the art can be used to add adjustable weight or further functionalize club head 101. Rotatable members are described in Adjustable Golf Club, U.S. Pat. No. 2,593,368; Club Head with Movable Weight, U.S. Pat. No. 3,589,731; Weight Adjusting Structure of Golf Club Head, U.S. Pub. 2009/0215551; and Golf Club Head with Moveable Insert, U.S. Pub. 2010/0105499 (see, e.g.,
References and citations to other documents, such as patents, patent applications, patent publications, journals, books, papers, web contents, have been made throughout this disclosure. All such documents are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes.
Various modifications of the invention and many further embodiments thereof, in addition to those shown and described herein, will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the full contents of this document, including references to the scientific and patent literature cited herein. The subject matter herein contains important information, exemplification and guidance that can be adapted to the practice of this invention in its various embodiments and equivalents thereof.
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/830,228, filed Aug. 19, 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/407,011, filed Feb. 28, 2012 (now U.S. Pat. No. 9,114,292), the contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/160,019, filed Jan. 21, 2014, which claims the benefit of, and priority to, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/755,564, filed Jan. 23, 2013, the contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/160,019 is also continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/565,146, filed Aug. 2, 2012 (now U.S. Pat. No. 9,114,294), which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/407,011, filed Feb. 28, 2012 (now U.S. Pat. No. 9,114,292), the contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/160,019 is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent Ser. No. 13/946,543, filed Jul. 19, 2013 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,870,673), which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/711,097, filed Dec. 11, 2012 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,517,850), the contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes.
Number | Date | Country | |
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61755564 | Jan 2013 | US |
Number | Date | Country | |
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Parent | 13407011 | Feb 2012 | US |
Child | 14830228 | US | |
Parent | 13711097 | Dec 2012 | US |
Child | 13946543 | US |
Number | Date | Country | |
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Parent | 14830228 | Aug 2015 | US |
Child | 14841743 | US | |
Parent | 14160019 | Jan 2014 | US |
Child | 13407011 | US | |
Parent | 13946543 | Jul 2013 | US |
Child | 14160019 | US | |
Parent | 13565146 | Aug 2012 | US |
Child | 13711097 | US | |
Parent | 13407011 | Feb 2012 | US |
Child | 13565146 | US |