CN102612388A

CN102612388A - Releasable and interchangeable connections for golf club heads and shafts with multiple orientations

Info

Publication number: CN102612388A
Application number: CN2010800376753A
Authority: CN
Inventors: J.S.托马斯; G.A.特里斯; V.J.康蒂尼; R.J.桑德; J.A.普雷斯科特; S.A.哈里斯; M.P.鲁巴尔
Original assignee: Nike International Ltd
Current assignee: Nike Innovation LP
Priority date: 2009-07-24
Filing date: 2010-07-19
Publication date: 2012-07-25
Also published as: KR101404729B1; TWI484988B; TW201107012A; JP5645936B2; US20100197423A1; WO2011011321A1; JP2013500059A; KR20120052318A; EP2456526A1; EP2456526B1

Abstract

Golf club heads (402) are releasably engaged with shafts (106) so they may be readily interchanged and/or so that the shaft orientation with respect to the club head can be readily changed. Assemblies for connecting the club head and shaft may include a shaft adapter (202) and a head adapter (302). The shaft adapter may have an exterior surface extending along a first axis and a bore having a cross-sectional shape along a second axis configured to attach to a shaft member. The second end of the shaft adapter may have a cross-sectional shape of a regular polygon or a cross-sectional shape defined by splines. The head adapter has a first end and a second end along a first axis and a bore having either a shape of a regular polygon or a cross- sectional shape defined by splines along a second axis that is shaped to receive the second end of the shaft adapter in a plurality of orientations.

Description

Be used for throwing off and replaceable connecting portion of glof club head and shaft

Related application

This application is the U.S. Patent application No.12/366 of application on February 5th, 2009, and 484 continuation applies for that partly it is herein incorporated by mode by reference in full.

Technical field

The disclosure relates generally to golf clubs and glof club head.More specifically; Aspect of the present invention relates to a kind of golf clubs; It has thrown off connecting portion and bar head/shaft position adjustments characteristic between glof club head and shaft, with the easy replacing that allows shaft and bar head and the permission easy change to bar head/shaft position character.In addition; Characteristic of the present invention and such as submitted on July 6th, 2007, U.S. Patent application No.11/774 under one's name such as Gary G.Tavares; The structure of the characteristic of the invention of describing in 513 and function class seemingly, said application is herein incorporated by full text by reference.

Background technology

Golf is the sportsman of the level of a lot of sportsmen-have different sexes and very different age and/or technology-liked.Golf has certain particularity in the motion field; Be that so different athletic set can be competed together in the golf incident; Even directly (for example race each other; Use not good enough point-score, the different platform of kicking off, with form of team etc.), and still enjoy game of golf or contest.The availability of the increase of golf program (for example on these factors and the TV; Golf championship, golf news, golf, golf history and/or other golf programs) and the emerging in large numbers of well-known golf superstar, in recent years, increased the popularity of golf at least in part in the U.S. and extend over the entire globe.

Golfer on whole technical merits attempts improving its performance, reduces its golf club number and reaches next performance " level ".The manufacturer of all types of golf equipments has made response to said demand, and in recent years, industry witness the great variety and the improvement of golf equipment.For example, the different golf ball models of wide scope is obtainable now, and wherein ball is designed to be fit to the specific speed that swings and/or other sportsman's characteristic or preference, and for example, the some of them ball is designed to fly fartherly and/or is more straight; Some are designed to provide track higher or that more put down; Some are designed to provide more rotations, control and/or near sensation (particularly the fruit mountain range); Some are designed to be fit to the very fast or slower speed that swings; Deng.Swing main frame and/or teaching assisted on market and can be obtained, and it is promised to undertake and helps to reduce golf club number.

As the unique apparatus that makes golf in play, golf clubs has also become the theme of many technical research and development in recent years.For example, market witness huge change and the improvement in recent years of push rod design, glof club head design, shaft and lever.Additionally; Also attempted its technical development development; So that swing speciality or the characteristic (for example, club mounting technology, the angular surveying technology of kicking off, the ball speed of rotation etc.) of the characteristic of each element of golf clubs and/or characteristic and golf and particular user are mated better.

Based on nearest progress, have a large amount of golf club head component parts and can use for the golfer.For example, club head is processed with various model by a large amount of manufacturers.In addition, single club head model can comprise many places changes, such as the change of loft angle, bar head inclination angle, offsets, counterweight speciality (for example, left-handed biasing club head, dextrorotation biasing club head, neutral counterweight club are first-class).In addition, club head can combine with multiple different shaft, such as, make by different manufacturers; Have different-stiffness, flexible point, turn back point or other crooked speciality etc.; Be made from a variety of materials; Deng.In the available variation of shaft and club head, have hundreds of different club head/shaft definitely and be combined as the golfer and can use.

Club fitter (club fitter) and golf practitioner can assist the golf clubs of allocating suitable its swing speciality and demand for the golfer.Yet traditionally, glof club head is used adhesive or adhesive for good and all is mounted to shaft.Therefore; In order to allow the golfer to test multiple bar head/shaft combination; Club fitter or practitioner must carry a large amount of permanent installation glof club head/shaft combination (this has occupied the memory space and the inventory cost of considerable amount), or club fitter or practitioner must make new club (this can occupy great amount of time and inventory cost) along with the client that is continuously of allocation process.The inferior position that is associated with said classical options works, and has limited the selection that can use for the golfer at allocation process, and/or has increased the expense and the length of process significantly.

Summary of the invention

The general introduction of aspect of the present invention hereinafter is provided, with provide about the present invention with and the basic understanding of each characteristic.This general introduction is not intended to limit by any way this scope of invention, and it only provides the overall general view and the background of more detailed thereafter description.

Aspect of the present invention relates to the system and method that releaseably glof club head is connected to shaft, thereby thereby club head and shaft can be changed easily and/or shaft with respect to the club body (with and ball striking face) angle and/or position can be changed easily.Glof club head/shaft coupling assembling according to example of the present invention can comprise the shaft adapter, and it comprises having the non-circular transverse cross-section that limited spline or the outer surface of regular polygon cross section.The shaft adapter also comprises endoporus, and it is by the axis arranged of edge from the journal offset of outer surface.The shaft adapter is configured to be attached to the shaft parts.Also be configured to securely and engaging lever head adapter releasably according to the shaft adapter of examples more of the present invention.

The bar head adapter comprises the hole, and it is the shape of spline edge with respect to the non-circular or regular polygon that offset axis limited of the outer surface of bar head adapter that said hole has cross section.The bar head adapter is shaped to a plurality of different orientations and receives the shaft adapter.For example, the hole of bar head adapter can have the shape of cross section that is limited spline, and wherein said spline is suitable for the spline coupling on the outer surface with the shaft adapter, to stop rotatablely moving about axis.In other embodiment, the present invention includes golf clubs with club head, said club head has the bar neck region that can a plurality of different orientations receives aforesaid bar head adapter.Yet in other embodiments, the bar head adapter can quilt and the bar neck region of club head integrally form (as a whole, single type structure).In other embodiment, the bar head adapter can pass through in the space insertion rod neck region in the bottom of glof club head by the edge axis identical with the bar neck region, and fixing on the throne through bolt or other known technologies further.In other embodiment in addition, glof club head also comprises the shaft parts, wherein the shaft adapter can quilt and the shaft parts integrally form (as a whole, single type structure).

Other aspects of the present invention relate to the method for assembling golf clubs.According to an illustrative methods, the shaft parts are attached to the shaft adapter, and said shaft adapter has first end and the second end along first axle, and wherein said shaft parts are inserted into along in the hole that second axis is provided with.This method can comprise in the hole with the second end insertion rod head adapter of shaft adapter further; Wherein said bar head adapter comprises first end and the second end along first axle; And wherein said hole has the regular polygon shape of cross section along second axis, and it is shaped to the second end that receives the shaft adapter with a plurality of different orientations.Alternatively, the hole of bar head adapter can have the shape of cross section that is limited spline, and it is shaped to the second end that receives the shaft adapter, and the outer surface of said shaft adapter also can be limited spline.

Additive method according to a particular embodiment of the invention can comprise in the bar neck region with bar head adapter insertion rod head further.In the embodiment that selects, the bar head adapter can be by with in the insertion rod neck region in a plurality of different orientations.Additive method can comprise the shaft adapter is removed from the bar head adapter; And in the hole of the second end with the shaft adapter with different orientation insertion rod head adapter again; And/or the bar neck region of bar head adapter from club head removed, and the bar head adapter is inserted in the bar neck region of club head with different orientations again.

Other aspects of the present invention relate to be marketed one or more members of golf clubs, sell, make or uses as external member.At least the external member that comprises aforesaid shaft adapter and bar head adapter can be associated to and be used for through from bar head, shaft, shaft adapter, lever, bar head adapter etc. one or more, selecting to construct the specification of golf clubs.In addition, shaft and/or shaft adapter can be angled about the axial direction of club head rod neck or club head attachment, with the adjusting with respect to club head (for example, with respect to ball striking face) of the position that allows shaft or angle.The information that explanation of regulating and/or detailed description club head relate to the speciality of adjusting also can be provided as the part of one or more external members according to an embodiment of the invention.

Description of drawings

Can be in conjunction with the drawings with reference to detailed description hereinafter obtain to the disclosure with and the more complete understanding of certain benefits, wherein:

Fig. 1 generally shows the front view of example golf club according to an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 2 is the perspective cross-sectional view of exemplary shaft adapter according to a particular embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 3 is the perspective cross-sectional view that engages the exemplary bar head adapter of shaft adapter according to a particular embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 4 is the decomposition view with example golf club of shaft adapter according to an embodiment of the invention and bar head adapter;

Fig. 5 A and 5B show the rotation with respect to the exemplary shaft adapter of club head according to an embodiment of the invention, and Fig. 5 C and 5D show with respect to the exemplary shaft adapter of club head according to an embodiment of the invention and the rotation of exemplary bar head adapter;

Fig. 6 shows a form, and it comprises and the exemplary information relevant with respect to the adjusting of shaft adapter according to an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 7 is the perspective cross-sectional view according to the exemplary shaft adapter of another example structure of the present invention;

Fig. 8 is the perspective cross-sectional view of joint according to the exemplary bar head adapter of the shaft adapter of another exemplary configurations of the present invention;

Fig. 9 is the decomposition view with example golf club of according to another embodiment of the present invention shaft adapter and bar head adapter;

Figure 10 A and 10B show with respect to the rotation according to the exemplary shaft adapter of the club head of an example of the present invention, and Figure 10 C and 10D show with respect to according to the exemplary shaft adapter of the club head of another example of the present invention and the rotation of exemplary bar head adapter;

Figure 11 A and 11B show according to the exemplary shaft adapter of replaceable example of the present invention and interconnecting of bar head adapter;

Figure 12 A shows the perspective cross-sectional view according to the exemplary shaft adapter/bar head adapter assembly of another example structure of the present invention;

Figure 12 B is the decomposition view that has according in the example golf club of the shaft adapter of the exemplary configurations shown in Figure 12 A and bar head adapter;

Figure 13 A shows the perspective cross-sectional view according to the exemplary shaft adapter/bar head adapter assembly of another example structure of the present invention;

Figure 13 B is the decomposition view that has according in the example golf club of the shaft adapter of the exemplary configurations shown in Figure 13 A and bar head adapter.

The reader should know in the said accompanying drawing and must not draw in proportion.

The specific embodiment

Hereinafter in the description according to each exemplary configurations of the present invention; With reference to accompanying drawing; Said accompanying drawing has constituted the part here, and wherein the mode through example illustrates each exemplary connecting portion, assembly, glof club head and golf club structure.In addition, should understand other the concrete layouts that also can use part and structure, and can carry out structure and functional modification and do not deviate from scope of the present invention.Here; " top ", " bottom ", " front portion ", " rear portion ", " back ", " side ", " downside ", " upside " wait and describe each example feature of the present invention and element although can use a technical term in this manual; Reason easily only started from said term, and exemplarily based on the orientation in exemplary orientation shown in the accompanying drawing or common the use.Should any part in this explanation be interpreted as that the three-dimensional that needs specific mechanism or spatial orientation are to fall into scope of the present invention.

Generally, as stated, aspect of the present invention relates to the system and method that is used for releaseably glof club head being connected to shaft, thereby club head and shaft can be by with respect to changing easily and/or reorientating.Concrete example of the present invention has more specifically been described hereinafter.The reader should understand said concrete example and only set forth from exemplary purpose of the present invention is shown, and it should not be understood that to limit the present invention.

A. the example of specific embodiment

1, exemplary club structure

Fig. 1 totally shows the example golf club 100 according at least some embodiment of the present invention.Exemplary club 100 comprises club head 102, can throw off club head/shaft connected system 104, and it is connected to shaft parts 106 (will be described hereinafter) with club head 102, and the lever parts 108 that are engaged to shaft parts 106.Although exemplary club 300 is depicted as standard " iron " type club head; Aspect of the present invention can be applied to the club head of any kind; This exemplarily comprises: any iron type glof club head (loft with any needs, for example from No. 0 iron or No. 1 iron to wedge); The Fairway Woods club head; Rod type or iron type are mixed glof club head; Putter head; Deng.Club head in can this area known and suitable material, appropriate structures, suitable manner that use process, and changed (if necessary, for example size, shape etc.) alternatively and can throw off club head/shaft coupling part to hold.

The various piece of club head/shaft connected system 104 can be processed by any needs or suitable material, and does not deviate from the present invention.For example; One or more can processing in the various piece by metal material; Be included in the golf clubs head structure light-weight metal that uses traditionally, such as alloy, steel, stainless steel and the analog of aluminium, titanium, magnesium, nickel, said material, alternatively, the material of surperficial anode treatment.Alternatively, need, one or more can the processing from rigid polymer material in the various piece of connected system 104 is such as polymeric material known traditionally in the golf clubs industry and that use.Various piece can be processed by identical or different material, and does not deviate from the present invention.In a concrete embodiment, each in the various piece will be processed from 7075 aluminium alloys with hard anode treatment surface.Part can be in metal processing and/or polymer product industry known and suitable manner that use process.

Also can the material of any needs be used for shaft parts 106, comprise the suitable material that is known in the art and uses, such as combination of steel, graphite, polymeric material, composite, said material etc.Alternatively, needs or necessary, shaft can be changed (for example, size, shape etc.) can throw off club head/shaft coupling part 104 to hold.Lever parts 108 can any needs mode be attached to shaft 106, this comprise with known in this area and any suitable manner of using (for example, via adhesive or adhesive, via mechanical connector etc.)。Can the material of any needs be used for lever parts 108; Comprise the suitable material that is known in the art and uses, such as rubber, polymeric material, cork, have the cork that is embedded in wherein or rubber or polymeric material, cloth or fabric, an adhesive tape etc. of other fabric components.Alternatively, need, lever parts 108 (or any suitable lever parts) can be used the thrown off connecting portion that can throw off connecting portion 104 (will carry out more detailed description to its example hereinafter) and releasably be connected to shaft 106.

With combining Fig. 2 to Fig. 6 to carrying out more detailed description at glof club head and the thrown off connecting portion between the shaft 104 according to examples more of the present invention.

2, exemplary shaft adapter

Fig. 2 is the perspective cross-sectional view of exemplary shaft adapter 202 according to an embodiment of the invention.The shaft adapter can be processed by in the aforesaid suitable material one or more, and can comprise the material of the material that is different from the remainder that constitutes golf clubs.For example, shaft adapter 202 can comprise or have rubber maybe can increase surface tension and/or reduce the another kind of compressible material that moves between shaft adapter 202, shaft parts 106 and/or the bar head adapter (302, be described hereinafter).In embodiment in addition, rubber and/or other materials can be used to increase damping capaicty and/or reduce the noise in the batting process.In embodiment in addition, shaft adapter 202 can be formed by light material, metal alloy or polymeric material (for example, rigid polymer material) structure.

As it be shown in fig. 2, shaft adapter 202 comprises first end 204 and the second end 206, wherein first end 204 and second section 206 identical axis 208 in edge.Shaft adapter 202 also comprises the hole 210 along second axis 212, and it is configured to shaft parts 106 are attached to second axis 212.Therefore, the cylindrical outer side of shaft adapter 202 extends to the second end 206 along an axial direction (along axis 208) from first end 204, and receives different axial direction (axis 212) extension in cylindrical hole 210 edges of shaft parts 106.Those skilled in the art will make things convenient for geography to separate after the disclosure to have the multiple combination of structural detail and/or process to can be used for realizing two axis 208,212 of shaft adapter 202 in examination.Differential seat angle between the first axle 208 and second axis 212 can be any angle and does not deviate from the present invention, for example, and at least 0.25 degree, at least 0.5 degree, at least 1 degree, at least 2 degree, at least 2.5 degree, at least 4 degree or even at least 8 degree.

In the exemplary embodiment, hole 210 has circular cross section shown in figure 2, exemplarily to receive traditionally shaped circular shaft.Yet, need, the shape of cross section in hole 210 can be exemplarily for having the polygon of arbitrary number side, such as: 12 sides or following, 10 sides or following, 8 sides or following, 6 sides or following or even 4 sides or following.The shape of cross section in hole 210 can be configured to be suitable for stoping the size and dimension of shaft parts 106 with respect to the rotation of shaft adapter 202.This can have the roughly polygonal shape identical with shaft parts 106 owing to the hole 210 of shaft adapter.Yet in other embodiments, only the part in hole 210 and shaft parts 106 engage or coupling, and this coupling stops the rotation of shaft adapter 202 in shaft parts 106.In exemplary configurations more specifically more according to the present invention; The part of shaft parts 106 will have square or rectangular cross section; And the hole 210 of shaft adapter 202 will comprise be shaped to many sides polygonal-shaped openings (for example; Have 4,6,8,12 or 16 sides), it takes in shaft parts 106.Alternatively; The words that need; Shaft adapter 202 can for good and all engage with shaft parts 106, for example uses adhesive or adhesive, use integration technology (such as welding, brazing or soldering) etc., and particularly hole 210 has in the exemplary configurations of circular cross section with shaft parts 106 therein.

In certain exemplary embodiment; In hole 210 and/or the shaft parts 106 at least one can have " side " or the projection of the quantity that is different from another person; But the shape of cross section of each structure still allows the firm insertion of shaft parts 106 in the hole 210 of shaft adapter, and does not allow shaft parts 106 rotating freely in hole 210.In a such embodiment, the number of " side " of hole 210 or shaft parts 106 is multiples of the number of sides on another person.Other such prevention rotational structure also is possible with arranging, and does not deviate from the present invention.For example; In shaft adapter 202 and/or the shaft parts 106 one or both can comprise frame for movement, extend into the extended structure (for example being similar to the attachment part of hydraulic tube and hydraulic pressure fuel feeding Connection Element) of opening, fluting or spine such as spring-loaded bolt or other.Detent mechanism and other physics (or alternatively, the static state) fixed structure that fits into opening, fluting or spine also can be used as to throw off and stops the portion that is rotatably connected, and does not deviate from the present invention.

Referring to Fig. 4 (will do more detailed description to it hereinafter), shaft adapter 202 is configured to be attached to securely shaft parts 106.Exemplary shaft adapter 202 can be hollow, and can size be set at the free end portion that receives golf ball bar body (such as shaft parts 106).Yet in other embodiments, the big I of exemplary shaft adapter 202 is set at the hollow space that is incorporated in the free end that is arranged in golf ball bar body (such as shaft parts 106).Those skilled in the art will understand easily that shaft adapter 202 must be for hollow, and can (for example comprise, via adhesive or adhesive through any suitable method and mechanism; Via welding, brazing, soldering or other integration technologies; Via mechanical connector; Via frictional fit; Deng) be attached to club shaft.In certain embodiments, the connecting portion of shaft adapter 202 to shaft parts 106 can be and can throw off, thereby allows shaft by convenient and promptly change.Yet in other embodiments, shaft adapter 202 can be integrated into shaft parts 106, or for good and all is attached to it with other mode.Like what in Fig. 2 and 4, illustrate further, the outer surface of shaft adapter 202 can be the shape of cross section of regular polygon.Shape of cross section can exemplary status have 16 sides or still less, 12 sides or still less, 10 sides or still less, 8 sides or still less, 6 sides or still less or even 4 sides or polygon still less.In other embodiments, the shape of cross section of the outer surface of shaft adapter can be circle.The shape of cross section of the outer surface of shaft adapter is configured to have and is suitable for fitting into bar head adapter (as stated) and stops the size and dimension of shaft adapter 202 with respect to the rotation of bar head adapter 302.

In certain embodiments, the outside of bar head adapter (will discuss hereinafter), shaft parts 106, shaft adapter 202 will in axial direction be shunk, thereby the diameter of member increases or reduces along this axial direction.This characteristic can be assisted and made shaft adapter 202 easily fit into and skid off the bar head adapter and/or avoid in manufacture process keeping the needs of extreme strict tolerance.

3, exemplary bar head adapter

Exemplary connecting portion 104 can further comprise bar head adapter 302.Referring to Fig. 3, bar head adapter 302 comprises draws together first end 304 and the second end 306.As shown in, first end 304 and the second end 306 is along identical axis (not shown).Bar head adapter 302 further comprises the hole 310 along second axis 312, and it is configured in and receives shaft adapter 202 (shaft adapter 202 receives shaft parts 106 then) on second axis 312.Therefore, the outside of bar head adapter 302 extends to the second end 306 along an axial direction from first end 304, and receives different axial direction (axis 312) extension in 310 edges, hole of shaft adapter 202.Those skilled in the art will make things convenient for geography to separate after the disclosure to have the multiple combination of structural detail and/or process to can be used for realizing two axis of bar head adapter 302 and not deviate from the present invention in examination.Differential seat angle between the first axle (not shown) and second axis 312 can be any angle and does not deviate from the present invention, for example, and at least 0.25 degree, at least 0.5 degree, at least 1 degree, at least 2 degree, at least 2.5 degree, at least 4 degree or even at least 8 degree.

As shown in Fig. 3 and 4, the hole 310 of bar head adapter 302 has the shape of cross section of regular polygon.Shape of cross section can exemplary status have 12 sides or still less, 10 sides or still less, 8 sides or still less, 6 sides or still less or even 4 sides or polygon still less.The shape of cross section in hole 310 is configured to be suitable for stoping the size and dimension of shaft adapter 106 with respect to the rotation of bar head adapter 302.This can have the roughly polygonal shape identical with the outer surface of shaft adapter 202 owing to the hole 310 of bar head adapter, as stated.Yet in other embodiments, only the part in hole 310 and shaft adapter 202 engage or coupling, and this coupling stops the rotation of shaft adapter 202 in bar head adapter 302.In exemplary configurations more specifically more according to the present invention; Shaft adapter 202 will have square or rectangular cross section; And the hole 310 of bar head adapter 302 will comprise be shaped to many sides polygonal-shaped openings (for example; Have 4,8,12 or 16 sides), it takes in shaft adapter 202.

Therefore; In the outer surface of hole 310 and/or shaft adapter 202 at least one can have " side " or the projection of the quantity that is different from another; But the shape of cross section of each structure still allows the firm insertion of shaft adapter 202 in the hole 310 of bar head adapter, and does not allow shaft adapter 202 rotating freely in hole 310.In a such embodiment, the number of " side " of hole 310 or shaft adapter 202 is multiples of the number of sides on another.In other embodiment in addition, the hole 310 of bar head adapter 302 can have circular cross-sectional shape, that is, be shaped to and receive the shaft adapter 202 that comprises the outer surface that has circular cross-sectional shape equally.Other such prevention rotational structure also is possible with arranging, and does not deviate from the present invention.For example; In bar head adapter 302 or the shaft parts 202 one or both can comprise frame for movement, extend into the extended structure (for example being similar to the attachment part of hydraulic tube and hydraulic pressure fuel feeding Connection Element) of opening, fluting or spine such as spring-loaded bolt or other.Detent mechanism and other physics (or alternatively, the static state) fixed structure that fits into opening, fluting or spine also can be used as to throw off and stops the portion that is rotatably connected, and does not deviate from the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 3, shaft adapter 202 can be configured to fit into fully bar head adapter 302.Yet in other embodiments, shaft adapter 202 extension is less than bar head adapter 302 whole axial length be less than 50%, and being less than 35%, being less than 25% or of the whole axial length of its extensible pole head adapter 302 even less than 15%.This characteristic can help to keep relatively short, the compact and lightweight of whole coupling assembling.Alternatively; The words that need; The part of shaft adapter 202 can remain on (and alternatively, the outer shape that is positioned at the shaft adapter 202 outside the bar head adapter can be different from the outer shape of the shaft adapter 202 that is positioned within the bar head adapter) outside the bar head adapter 302.As combine hereinafter shown in Figure 6, the configuration of shaft adapter 202 and can be used for regulating angle and/or each position (for example bar head inclination angle (lie angle), loft (loft angle), the face angle (face angle) etc.) of the batting surface of glof club head 102 with respect to the layout of club head body.

In other embodiments; The big I of exemplary bar head adapter 302 is set to and is received in the hollow space; Such as the hole 210 of shaft adapter 202, exemplarily as combine in the preceding text some wherein the embodiment that is engaged in the shaft adapter 202 of shaft parts 106 is described.In addition, in other embodiments, bar head adapter 302 can be integrated in club head 402 or otherwise for good and all be fixed to it, as is used 404 receptions of bar neck region.

B. assembly method

Fig. 4 shows the decomposition diagram according to the example golf club 400 of exemplary embodiment of the present invention.The decomposition view of golf clubs 400 also obviously shows one that can be used for constructing in the SOME METHODS of constructing golf clubs according to certain aspects of the invention.According to an illustrative methods; Shaft parts 106 are attached to shaft adapter 202; Said shaft adapter 202 has the first end 204 and the second end 206 along first axle 208, and wherein said shaft parts 106 are inserted into along in the hole 210 that second axis 212 extends (axis is illustrated in Fig. 2).Shaft parts 106 can for good and all be fixed to shaft adapter 202 (for example, via adhesive or adhesive, via integration technology (for example, welding, soldering or brazing), etc.) or said

part

106 and 202 can releasably be connected to each other.This method can comprise in the hole 310 with the second end 206 insertion rod head adapters 302 of shaft adapter 202 further; Wherein said bar head adapter 302 comprises the first end 304 and the second end 306 along first axle 308; And wherein said hole 310 has the regular polygon shape of cross section along second axis 312, and it is shaped to the second end 206 that receives shaft adapter 202 with a plurality of different orientations.This method can further comprise (this bar neck region 404 can have the inside opening of polygonal shape, and it is shaped to the outer surface of the second end that receives shaft adapter 302) in the bar neck region 404 with bar head adapter 302 insertion club head 402.In the embodiment that selects, the insertion of bar head adapter 302 in bar neck region 404 can be selected from a plurality of different orientations, for example, discussed as combining Fig. 5 A-5D and Fig. 6 hereinafter.Correspondingly, additive method can comprise: shaft adapter 202 is removed from bar head adapter 302, and in the hole 310 of the second end 206 with different orientation insertion rod head adapter 302 again with shaft adapter 202; And/or the bar neck region 404 of bar head adapter 302 from club head 402 removed, and bar head adapter 302 is inserted in the bar neck region 404 of club head 402 with different orientations again.

Exemplary bar neck region 404 can comprise internal part or the hole that is used to receive bar head adapter 302.This hole can be got into glof club head 402 by processing in the manufacture process of bar head.In one embodiment, bar neck region 404 is through boring or otherwise cut out the part of glof club head 402.About this, the part of the outside circumference of bar neck region 404 comprises and glof club head 402 identical materials at least.Shaft parts 106 can various needs mode be fixed to club head 402 (through shaft adapter 202 and bar head adapter 302), comprise the thrown off connected system that is known in the art and uses.For example, the threaded screw that is arranged on the shaft parts 106 can engage the threaded portion that is arranged on the bar neck.As another example, screw bolt is extensible to pass the opening (for example, at the bottom of the club head rod) that is arranged in the club head, and its joint is arranged on the threaded portion in the bottom of shaft parts 106, shaft adapter 202 and/or bar head adapter 302.Can use such as at United States Patent(USP) No. 6,890,269 (Bruc D.Burrows) with U.S. Patent No. application No.2004/0018886 (Bruce D.Burrows) but in other the same disengagement type connected systems of describing, and do not deviate from the present invention.Said patent is herein incorporated by by reference mode separately.Connected system also can releasably be engaged by the any-mode with following description.

C. adjusting rod head adapter and shaft adapter

Because the axis in the hole 210 in the shaft adapter 202 is opened from the journal offset of the outer surface of shaft adapter 202; And because the axis in the hole in the bar head adapter 302 is opened the position of said adapter one of them rotation with respect to club head 402 will change shaft parts 106 with respect to the ball striking face of club head from the journal offset of its outer surface.Fig. 5 A-5D shows the vertical view according to the part of the golf clubs of each embodiment of the present invention separately, and wherein shaft adapter 202 and bar head adapter 302 boths can be arranged with one in the some kinds of orientations relevant with club head 402.Particularly, referring to Fig. 5 A, shaft parts 106 are securely held in the shaft adapter 202.Like finding, shaft adapter 202 has the octagon outer shape, and it combines and coupling with bar head adapter 302, and said bar head adapter has octagon inner edge circumference hole, to receive shaft adapter 202.As stated, shaft adapter 202 must not be of similar shape with bar head adapter 302, but only needs each other relative to each other and/or with respect to one in a plurality of rotations orientations of club head 402 to be complementary, and is for example, described like hereinafter yet.

Exemplary shaft adapter 202 among Fig. 5 A-5D comprises sign 502, and exemplary bar head adapter 302 comprises sign 504.Sign 502 on the shaft adapter 202 indicates shaft adapter 202 with respect to bar head adapter 302, and the position of rotation with respect to club head 402 that causes thus.Sign 504 on the bar head adapter 302 indicates the position of rotation of bar head adapter 302 with respect to club head 402 and shaft adapter 202.Sign 502,504 is for allowing the user to write down club head/shaft orientation better and/or allowing that the reliable answer of front position so far is an advantage after one or more members have taken place with respect to the rotation of shaft parts 106.Because both be octagon substantially in this exemplary configurations for exemplary shaft adapter 202 and bar head adapter 302, have 64 kinds of rotation orientations and supply it releaseably to engage and mate securely.Therefore; Discussion hereinafter is in sensing bar head adapter 202 and the position of shaft adapter 302 from 1 to 8 the position of rotation, wherein position 1 point to sign 502,504 be among Fig. 5 A 12 o'clock direction and position after this number with this in clockwise manner.In other embodiment in addition, need, club head 106 can be marked with sign.

Depend on how shaft adapter 202 and/or bar head adapter 302 are arranged with respect to " pole face " of club head 102, and the performance speciality of club can be changed.This characteristic with can throw off connected system 104 together; Allow club fitter (or other people) free and (for example regulate shaft parts 106 easily with respect to all angles of club head 102 and/or position; The combination of variable bar head inclination angle, loft and face angle); And still using identical shaft 106 and/or bar head 102, this can help the user more easily combination and the layout of definite optimized club head/shaft, to satisfy its needs.Referring to Fig. 5 A, sign 502 illustrates shaft adapter 202 and is in position 1, the bar head adapter is shown also goes out in the position 1 and identify 504.As visible in Fig. 5 B, shaft adapter 202 (and therefore shaft 106) has been rotated to the position 2, and bar head adapter 302 remains on position 1.

It can be favourable for club head/shaft orientation is regulated known factor that shaft adapter 202 is reset the position with respect to bar head adapter 302.For example, information can be associated with the relevant shaft adapter 202 and the bar head adapter 302 of angle of the offset axis in hole 210,310.Can provide information to adapter 202,302, can print, scribe or otherwise be marked on the adapter 202,302, independently, or can learn with other mode.

Fig. 6 provides form 600, and it shows and shaft adapter 202 is regulated (and bar head adapter 302 remains on the constant position with respect to club head 402) relevant exemplary information with respect to club head 402.This information relates in the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 3, and wherein shaft adapter 202 and bar head adapter 302 boths are octagon-shaped roughly.In concrete embodiment; The hole 210 of shaft adapter from off-centring go out about 2 the degree, and the hole 310 of bar head adapter from off-centring about 1 the degree, yet deviation angle can 0.25 to 4 the degree scope in; And in some instances, deviation angle is in the scope of 0.5 to 2 degree.Form 600 shows by the variation of shaft adapter 202 being rotated face angle (row 604), bar head inclination angle (row 606) and loft (row 608) that 1/8 of whole circle causes with clockwise mode with respect to the bar head adapter.First row as at row 602 is visible, and shaft adapter 202 is set to position 1 (therefore as shown in Fig. 5 A, identify 502 and be in 12 o ' clock positions).When shaft adapter 202 and bar head adapter 302 are set to position 1 (as visible in Fig. 5 A), face angle and loft do not change, and still, bar head inclination angle is in+3 degree places (row 610 in referring to Fig. 6).

But; When shaft adapter 202 is set to position 2 when spending (or be rotated in a clockwise direction about 45) and bar head adapter 302 when remaining on position 1; Exemplarily, as visible in Fig. 5 B, face angle is conditioned-0.7 degree; Bar head inclination angle changes to+2.4 degree, and loft increases by 1.2 degree (referring to row among Fig. 6 612).As visible in the remainder of form 600, can be through shaft adapter 202 be adjusted to known amount with respect to bar head adapter 302 position again with face angle, bar head inclination angle and loft.In addition, as visible in Fig. 5 C-5D, bar head adapter 302 also can be conditioned, and is independent of the position again of shaft adapter or combines with it no matter be.

In embodiment in addition, " side " of shaft adapter 202 and/or bar head adapter can comprise the projection on the circumference.For example, member can have the circular shape, and still, projection can be arranged or otherwise be arranged on the circumference of structure, thereby forms and the identical effect of " wall " essence.In fact, any structure, shape, extension etc. of simulating traditional side and are included in the scope of the term " side " that uses herein all within the scope of the invention.In exemplary configurations more specifically more according to the present invention, the rotation stopping structure of internal cavities will have square or rectangular cross section.In other embodiment in addition, internal cavities can be erose, thereby " side " is unequal.Exemplary, not effective needing shaft by inserting with the mode that good club speciality will be provided.In certain embodiments, have a plurality of possible configurations, the shaft adapter can be received in the glof club head, and wherein at least one configuration provides the club speciality inequality with another configuration.

D. additional aspect of the present invention

1, general introduction

Can throw off coupling assembling and can be set in the structure of any needs and/or and use, and not deviate from the present invention with the mode of any needs.Club with said coupling assembling can be designed to use (and alternatively, need, the golfer can freely change shaft, bar head and/or its position relative to each other) at the volley by the golfer.As another example; The words that need; Comprise that club of throwing off connecting portion according to the present invention can be used as club allotment instrument; And when the combination of the needs of bar head, shaft and position had been confirmed for specific golfer, the club fitter can use definite information to use the golf clubs that suitable (with permanent) mounting technique (for example, adhesive or adhesive) is made then finally to be needed.Other variations of club/shaft coupling assembling part and process also are possible, and do not deviate from the present invention.

2, external member

As additional exemplary of the present invention aspect, the one or more of the member of golf clubs and/or its coupling assembling or element are used as the external member marketing, sell or use.Such embodiment can comprise the external member with glof club head, and said club head has the internal cavities that is configured to receive insertable bar head adapter 302.In other embodiment in addition, bar head adapter 302 can be attached or otherwise be made for the part of glof club head by for good and all.Additionally or alternatively, this external member also can comprise shaft adapter 202 and/or shaft parts 106.

External member can be associated with specification, and said specification is used to construct the golf clubs with bar head, and from shaft, shaft adapter and/or other elements one or more, selects with the structure golf clubs.In certain embodiments, specification can be described a kind of method and is used for: with the first end 204 place patchholes 210 of shaft parts 106 at shaft adapter 202; In the second end 206 of shaft adapter 202 hole 310 with an insertion rod head adapter 302 in a plurality of different orientations; And/or in the bar neck region with bar head adapter 302 insertion club head 402, wherein said bar head adapter 302 can a plurality of different orientations be engaged in the bar neck region.In other embodiment in addition, external member can comprise information, and it relates to face angle, bar head inclination angle and loft with respect to the club head 402 of the different orientation of bar head adapter in the bar neck region of club head 402 302 and shaft adapter 202.

External member can be depending on various embodiment and comprises one or more shafts, shaft adapter, bar head and/or specification.External member also can comprise information, and it relates to face angle, bar head inclination angle and loft with respect to the club head of the orientation of specific bar head adapter in the internal chamber of specific club head and shaft adapter.Those skilled in the art will understand easily that specification must not be printed and other members of external member keep physically existing together, but specification can be provided on the computer-readable medium.Said specification can be positioned on the server of user-accessible.According to certain embodiments, the user can provide information, and such as the link of an address to the internet, it comprises said specification, and this will drop in the scope of the book that furnishes an explanation.Therefore, when using herein, the book that furnishes an explanation is not restricted to and can copies with the printing that the physical component of golf clubs is together sent.

3, axial direction region of variation

Other structures of golf clubs 100 can combine above-mentioned combination Fig. 2 to Fig. 6 the connected system 104 of bright book use together, with the benefit of further increase through disclosed golf clubs.Exemplarily, additional structural can comprise that also axial direction changes the zone.Have exemplary shaft that one or more directions change the zone at U.S. Patent application No.11/774, be disclosed and describe in 522, its by by reference mode in full in this.In addition; Above-mentioned shaft adapter and/or bar head adapter can be thrown off glof club head/shaft jockey with other and used together; Such as at United States Patent(USP) No. 6; 890,269 (Bruce D.Burrows) and described among the U.S. Patent No. application No.2004/0018886 (Bruce D.Burrows) those, said each patent all is herein incorporated by by reference mode in full.In addition, above-mentioned various aspects of the present invention can combine that other have had patent, patent is undetermined and/or the commercial obtainable golf ball bar body assembly of throwing off uses together.

Many changes in the general structure of shaft, club head and club head/shaft coupling assembling are possible, and do not deviate from the present invention.In addition, each step of described assembling process can and/or be ignored by change, change order, combination, and does not deviate from the present invention.Additionally or alternatively; The words that need; In said structure; Club head can be replaced by rapidly and easily not same (club head that for example, has different lofts, bar head inclination angle, size, brand etc.) and/or shaft on the shaft can be replaced by rapidly and easily on the club head not same (for example, have material different, have different flexible, have the different point of turning back (kick point) speciality etc.).

E. supplementary features of the present invention and example

Aspect of the present invention described herein also can be limited by following additional exemplary structure further.With reference to showing above description and exemplary configurations hereinafter being described in the exemplary club structure shown in Fig. 1.The exemplary elements of said structure (discussing separately hereinafter) is depicted in Fig. 9 together, and it is the exploded perspective view of example golf club head 900 (also will discuss hereinafter).

1, exemplary shaft adapter

Fig. 7 is the perspective cross-sectional view according to the exemplary shaft adapter 702 of example of the present invention.Exemplary shaft adapter 702 is similar with above-mentioned exemplary shaft adapter 202, but the outer surface of shaft adapter 702 can completely or partially limit (it also is illustrated) the spline 716 that extends along vertical axis 708 in Fig. 9.Shaft adapter 702 can be processed by in the aforesaid suitable material one or more, and can comprise the material of the material that is different from the remainder that constitutes golf clubs.Exemplarily, shaft adapter 702 can be formed by light material, metal alloy or polymeric material (for example, rigid polymer material) structure.

Shaft adapter 703 is the substantial cylindrical shape, and has first end 704 and the second end 706 along identical axis 708.Shaft adapter 702 also comprises the hole 710 along second axis 712, and it is configured to be attached to the shaft parts 106 on second axis 712.The cylindrical outer side of shaft adapter 702 extends to the second end 706 along an axial direction (along axis 708) from first end 704, and the cylindrical hole 710 of reception shaft parts 106 can extend along different axial direction (axis 712).According to the exemplary configurations shown in Fig. 7-9, the outside of shaft adapter 702 can be limited by flange 714 further, and said flange is suitable for being received and and its coupling by the opening 816 (as shown in figure 8 wherein) of bar head adapter 820.Alternatively, the basal surface of flange 714 can rest on the top surface of bar head adapter 802 simply.It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the multiple combination that has structural detail and/or process can be used for realizing two axis 708,712 of shaft adapter 702.Similar with above-mentioned exemplary configurations 202; Differential seat angle between the first axle 708 of shaft adapter 702 and second axis 712 can be any angle and does not deviate from the present invention; For example, at least 0.25 degree, at least 0.5 degree, at least 1 degree, at least 2 degree, at least 2.5 degree, at least 4 degree or even at least 8 degree.

In the structure shown in Fig. 7, hole 710 has circular cross-sectional shape, exemplarily to receive traditionally shaped circular shaft.Yet, needing, the shape of cross section in hole 710 can be configured to have and be suitable for stoping the size and dimension of shaft parts 106 with respect to the rotation of shaft adapter 702.For example, the shape in hole self can be limited vertical spline, and said spline is shaped to and receives and engage the shaft parts with part spline outside.As above combine shaft adapter 202 said, shaft adapter 702 can be disposed with a plurality of modes, makes hole 710 and shaft parts 106 engage or coupling, and makes this coupling stop the rotation of shaft adapter 702 in shaft parts 106.In other structures in addition, shaft adapter 702 can for good and all engage (for example via adhesive or adhesive with shaft parts 106; Via welding, brazing or soldering or other integration technologies; Via mechanical connector; Frictional fit is only arranged; Deng), particularly hole 710 has in the exemplary configurations of circular cross section with shaft parts 106 therein.Those skilled in the art will easily understand the quantity of the different modes that shaft adapter wherein 702 and shaft parts 106 can be combined.

Other such prevention rotational structure also is possible with arranging, and does not deviate from the present invention.For example; In shaft adapter 702 and/or the shaft parts 106 one or both can comprise frame for movement, extend into the extended structure (for example being similar to the attachment part of hydraulic tube and hydraulic pressure fuel feeding Connection Element) of opening, fluting or spine such as spring-loaded bolt or other.Detent mechanism and other physics (or alternatively, the static state) fixed structure that fits into opening, fluting or spine also can be used as to throw off and stops the portion that is rotatably connected, and does not deviate from the present invention.

Referring to Fig. 9 (will do more detailed description to it hereinafter), shaft adapter 702 is configured to be attached to securely shaft parts 106.Exemplary shaft adapter 702 can be hollow, and can size be set at the free end portion that receives golf ball bar body (such as shaft parts 106).Therefore, in the certain exemplary structure, the connection of shaft adapter 702 to shaft parts 106 can be and can throw off, and changes easily and promptly to allow shaft.Yet in other embodiments, shaft adapter 702 can be integrated into shaft parts 106, or for good and all is attached to it with other mode.

Like what in Fig. 7 and 9, illustrate further, the outer surface of shaft adapter 702 at the second end 706 places can have the shape of cross section that spline limited that extends along shaft adapter axis 708.Spline can form along the spine on surface, and it is set at and another surperficial spline coupling and joint in fixing position, the inboard of the bar head adapter 802 of said another surface shown in Fig. 8 by size.Spline can comprise the spine that is positioned on the material surface, and said material comprises shaft adapter 702 and can be processed according to multiple known technology (for example, through extruding, molded, casting or other known fabrication techniques of being familiar with for those skilled in the art).According to the structure shown in Fig. 7, spline may extend to flange 714.And in the exemplary configurations that illustrates, flange 714 is suitable for resting (the bar head adapter 802 among Fig. 8 is more at large described hereinafter) on the top 816 of the club head 802 shown in Fig. 8.Therefore, the shape of cross section of the outer surface of shaft adapter 702 is configured to have and is suitable for fitting into bar head adapter 802 (as stated) and stops the size and dimension of shaft adapter 702 with respect to the rotation of bar head adapter 802.

According to aspect of the present invention described herein, spline 716,820 and 906 (wherein each is all more at large described hereinafter) can comprise spine and groove alternately, and it is triangle, circle, round (squared off) or trapezoidal shape roughly.Spline 716 (or polygon transverse cross-sectional area) can extend along the arbitrary portion of the longitudinal length of (or hole bar head adapter 802 or bar neck region 904) outer surface of shaft adapter 702, and does not deviate from the present invention.For example; Spline 716 can extend from 10% to 100% of the whole longitudinal length of the outer surface of shaft adapter 702; And in the certain exemplary structure, spline can extend from 15% to 80% of whole longitudinal length, or extends from 20% to 60% of whole longitudinal length.The outer surface part that comprises spline 716 also can be positioned at the position of any needs of length longitudinally, and does not deviate from the present invention, such as extending upward from the second end 706, extend towards the second end 706 from lug area 714 etc.Spline 716 also can be only part extend around the outer surface of shaft adapter 702.For example, the outer surface of shaft adapter 702 can be limited on the band of spline 716, and said band separates at external surface peripheral equably, along the axis 708 or the longitudinal length extension of shaft adapter 702.

In the certain exemplary structure, can in axial direction shrink at the outer surface of the bar head adapter 802 of the position of non-circular cross sections, shaft parts 106, shaft adapter 702, thereby the diameter of member reduces from first end to the second end to a certain extent.This characteristic can be assisted and made shaft adapter 702 easily fit into and skid off bar head adapter 802 and/or avoid in manufacture process keeping the needs of extreme strict tolerance.

2, exemplary bar head adapter

Exemplary connecting portion among Fig. 9 can further comprise the bar head adapter 802 according to additional example of the present invention.Bar head adapter 802 can be processed by in the aforesaid suitable material one or more, and can comprise the material of the material that is different from the remainder that constitutes golf clubs.For example, bar head adapter 802 can be formed by light material, metal alloy or polymeric material (for example, rigid polymer material) structure.Referring to Fig. 8, bar head adapter 802 comprises first end 804 and the second end 806.As shown in, first end 804 and the second end 806 is along identical axis (not shown).Bar head adapter 802 further comprises the hole 810 along second axis 812, and it is configured in and receives shaft adapter 702 (shaft adapter 702 receives shaft adapter 106 then) on second axis 812.Therefore, the outside of bar head adapter 802 extends to the second end 806 along an axial direction from first end 804, and receives different axial direction (axis 812) extension in 810 edges, hole of shaft adapter 702.Those skilled in the art will make things convenient for geography to separate after the disclosure to have the multiple combination of structural detail and/or process to can be used for realizing two axis of bar head adapter 802 and not deviate from the present invention in examination.Differential seat angle between the first axle (not shown) and second axis 812 can be any angle and does not deviate from the present invention, for example, and at least 0.25 degree, at least 0.5 degree, at least 1 degree, at least 2 degree, at least 2.5 degree, at least 4 degree or even at least 8 degree.

The hole 810 of bar head adapter 820 can have the shape of cross section that is limited the spline 820 that extends along vertical axis 812, and it can be shaped to and in fixing position, receive and engage the spline 716 on the outside that is positioned at shaft adapter 702.Spline can comprise the spine that is positioned on the material surface, and said material comprises shaft adapter 802 and can be processed according to multiple known technology (for example, through extruding, molded, casting or other known fabrication techniques of being familiar with for those skilled in the art).Therefore the shape of cross section in hole 810 can be configured to have and be suitable for stoping the size and dimension of shaft adapter 702 with respect to the rotation of bar head adapter 802.Yet in other embodiments, only the part in hole 810 and shaft adapter 702 engage or coupling, and this coupling or other engage and stop the rotation of shaft adapter 702 in bar head adapter 802.In the concrete exemplary configurations shown in Fig. 8 and 9; The first end 804 of bar head adapter 802 can be limited shallow impression 816, and said shallow impression is shaped to the flange 714 that when shaft adapter 702 is engaged in the hole 810 of bar head adapter 802, receives shaft adapter 702.

Other prevention rotational structure also is possible with arranging, and does not deviate from the present invention.For example; In bar head adapter 802 or the shaft parts 702 one or both can comprise frame for movement, extend into the extended structure (for example being similar to the attachment part of hydraulic tube and hydraulic pressure fuel feeding Connection Element) of opening, fluting or spine such as spring-loaded bolt or other.Detent mechanism and other physics (or alternatively, the static state) fixed structure that fits into opening, fluting or spine also can be used as to throw off and stops the portion that is rotatably connected, and does not deviate from the present invention.

As shown in figure 8 wherein, shaft adapter 702 can be configured to only partly fit in the bar head adapter 802.Yet in other structures, shaft adapter 702 can extend more or less than the axial length of bar head adapter 802.As combine hereinafter Figure 10 A, 10B, 10C and 10D further discuss; The configuration of shaft adapter 702 and can be used for regulating angle (for example, bar head inclination angle, loft, face angle etc.) and/or each position of the batting surface of glof club head 102 with respect to the layout of club head body.

In other exemplary configurations according to the present invention, bar head adapter 802 can be integrated in club head 902 or otherwise for good and all be fixed to it, as is used bar neck region 904 and is received in interior or integrally forms its part.In said structure, possibly there is not the outer surface (although bar neck hole can " off-axis " mode extend, if the outboard beam neck is present in the club head structure) of bar head adapter 802 from bar neck outer surface.

3, assembling is according to the method for the replaceable exemplary configurations of this aspect

Fig. 9 show according in the preceding text to the decomposition diagram of the example golf club 900 of Fig. 7 and the example of the present invention that goes out and describe shown in Figure 8.The decomposition view of golf clubs 900 also obviously shows one that can be used for constructing in the SOME METHODS of constructing golf clubs according to certain aspects of the invention.According to an illustrative methods; Shaft parts 106 are attached to shaft adapter 702; Said shaft adapter has the first end 704 and the second end 706 along first axle 708, and wherein said shaft parts 106 are inserted into along in the hole 710 that second axis 712 (axis 712 is illustrated among Fig. 7) is provided with.Shaft parts 106 can for good and all be fixed to shaft adapter 702 (for example, via adhesive or adhesive, via integration technology (for example, welding, soldering or brazing), etc.) or said part 106 and 702 can releasably be connected to each other.This method can comprise in the hole 810 with the second end 706 insertion rod head adapters 802 of shaft adapter 702 further; Wherein said bar head adapter 802 comprises the first end 804 and the second end 806 along first axle 808; And wherein said hole 810 has the shape of cross section that is limited spline 820, and is shaped to the second end 706 that receives shaft adapter 702 with a plurality of different orientations.This method can further comprise to be inserted bar head adapter 802 in the bar neck region 904 of club head 902.Bar neck region 904 can comprise inside opening, and it has the shape of cross section that is limited spline 906, and said shape of cross section is formalized in the spline 818 that receives the second end 806 of bar head adapter 802 with a plurality of different orientations.In the embodiment that selects, the insertion of bar head adapter 802 in bar neck region 904 can be selected from a plurality of different orientations, for example, discussed as combining Figure 10 A-10D hereinafter.Therefore; Can comprise according to additive method of the present invention: shaft adapter 702 is removed from bar head adapter 802; And with different orientations (for example with the second end 706 of shaft adapter 702; In different rotary positions) again in the hole 810 of insertion rod head adapter 802; And/or the bar neck region 904 of bar head adapter 802 from club head 902 removed, and bar head adapter 802 is inserted in the bar neck region 904 of club head 902 with different orientation (for example, in different rotary positions) again.

Exemplary bar neck region 904 can comprise internal part or the hole that is used to receive bar head adapter 802.This hole can be according in the manufacture process of bar head, being machined into glof club head 902 for machining technique well known by persons skilled in the art.In an exemplary configurations, cut out a part through boring or other modes from glof club head 902 and form bar neck region 904.About this, the part of the outside circumference of bar neck region 904 comprises and glof club head 902 identical materials at least.In addition, the shape in hole can be limited spline, can receive the bar head adapter 802 with the outer shape that is limited spline with engaging.Shaft parts 106 can various needs mode be fixed to club head 902 (through shaft adapter 702 and bar head adapter 802), comprise the thrown off connected system that is known in the art and uses.As visible in the decomposition view in Fig. 9, the Outboard Sections of bar neck region 904 can have screw thread 910.Screw thread 910 can be used for through with threaded screw 908 on the first end 704 of shaft adapter be positioned at screw thread 910 on the outer surface of bar neck region 904 and engage and fix whole interconnecting assembly.As another example, screw bolt is extensible to pass the opening (for example, at the bottom of the club head rod) that is arranged in the club head, and its joint is arranged on the threaded portion in the bottom of shaft parts 106, shaft adapter 702 and/or bar head adapter 802.

4, adjusting rod head adapter and shaft adapter

Because the axis in the hole 710 in the shaft adapter 702 can be opened from the journal offset of the outer surface of shaft adapter 702; And because the axis in the hole in the bar head adapter 802 can be opened from the journal offset of its outer surface, any rotation with respect to club head 920 in the said adapter will change the position of shaft parts 106 with respect to the batting surface of club head.Said skew can be the angle in 0.25 to 4 degree scope, and in some instances, this skew can be the angle in scope 0.5 to 2 degree scope.Figure 10 A-10D shows the vertical view according to the part of the golf clubs of replacement exemplary configurations of the present invention separately, wherein shaft adapter 702 and bar head adapter 803 both can be by with different rotary arranged in orientation with respect to club head 902.Relatively, the replacement structure shown in Fig. 7-9 allows littler, more progressive rotation with the rotation of the structure shown in Fig. 5 A-5B (wherein rotation must equal at least one complete side of changeable shape).Particularly, referring to Figure 10 A, shaft parts 106 are securely held in the shaft adapter 702.Like finding in Figure 10 A-10D, shaft adapter 702 has the outer shape that spline limited of being extended in the axis 708 along shaft adapter 702.The outer shape of shaft adapter 702 and bar head adapter 802 engage and coupling, and said bar head adapter has the inner periphery hole shape that spline limited that is extended in the axis 812 along bar head adapter 802, is used to receive shaft adapter 702.In Figure 10 A-10D; The hole shape of the outer surface of shaft adapter 702 and bar head adapter 802 is similar; Thereby the spline of bar head adapter 802 receives and engages the spline of shaft adapter 702 with a plurality of different rotary orientations relative to each other, but also rotates and mobile mode to be used to stop.

Exemplary shaft adapter 702 among Figure 10 A-10D can comprise that sign 1002 and exemplary bar head adapter 802 can comprise sign 1004.Sign 1002 on the shaft adapter 702 indicates shaft adapter 702 with respect to bar head adapter 802, and the position of rotation with respect to club head 902 that causes thus.Sign 1004 on the bar head adapter 802 indicates the position of rotation of bar head adapters 802 with respect to club head 902, and with respect to the position of rotation of shaft adapter 702.Sign 1002,1004 is for allowing the user to write down club head/shaft orientation better and/or allowing that the answer of front position so far is favourable after one or more members have taken place with respect to the rotation of shaft parts 106.Because exemplary shaft adapter 702 is shaped to spline 716,818 and 820 with bar head adapter 802 boths and limits, have a large amount of rotation orientations, wherein their modes that can throw off engage and mate securely.Therefore, hereinafter description will be referred to be in bar head adapter 702 and the position of shaft adapter 802 in the increment position of rotation.12 o ' clock positions that are among Figure 10 A when sign 1002,1004 are pointed in position 1, and position after this is along with clockwise mode increment rotation is described.In other examples in addition, need, club head 902 can be used the sign mark.

Depend on how shaft adapter 702 and/or bar head adapter 802 are arranged with respect to " pole face " of club head 102, and the performance speciality of club can be changed.This characteristic with can throw off connected system 104 together; Allow club fitter (or other people) free and (for example regulate shaft parts 106 easily with respect to all angles of club head 102 and/or position; At the bottom of the variable bar, the combination of club and face angle); And still using identical shaft 106 and/or bar head 102, this can help the user more easily combination and the layout of definite optimized club head/shaft, to satisfy its needs.Referring to Figure 10 A, sign 1002 expression shaft adapters 702 are in position 1, and indicate that 1004 indication rod head adapters 802 also are in position 1.As seen in fig. 10B, shaft adapter 702 (and so shaft 106) is by increment rotation along clockwise direction, and bar head adapter 802 remains in the position 1.In Figure 10 C, bar head adapter 802 (and so club head 102) is by increment rotation along clockwise direction, and shaft adapter 702 remains in the position 1.In Figure 10 D, shaft adapter 702 and bar head adapter 802 both by increment rotation along clockwise direction, in fact both relative to each other rotate with shaft 106 and club head 102 for this.

Possibly be advantage with respect to bar head adapter 802 position again for regulating that club head/shaft is orientated the known factor with shaft adapter 702 as described above.For example, information can be associated with the relevant shaft adapter 702 and the bar head adapter 802 of angle of the offset axis in hole 710,810.Information can offer adapter 720 and 802, can print, scribe or otherwise be marked on

adapter

702 and 802, independently, or otherwise can learn.It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that Figure 10 A-10D only represents four kinds of configurations in a large amount of rotation orientation, wherein the mode that can throw off of shaft adapter 702 and bar head adapter 802 engages and coupling securely.

Figure 11 A and 11B show the vertical view according to the part of the club head of other examples in addition of the present invention described herein.Figure 11 A shows bar head adapter 1104, and it has regular polygon outside shape of cross section, and the endoporus with the shape of cross section that spline limited that is extended the vertical axis along bar head adapter 1104.Shaft adapter 1102 shown in Figure 11 A has the outside shape of cross section that spline limited that extends along the vertical axis of shaft adapter 1102, and is shaped to by the vertical spline on the endoporus of bar head adapter 1104 and receives and engage with it.Figure 11 B show with Figure 11 category-A like dispose, but Figure 11 B shows and has the bar head adapter 1108 of the outside shape of cross section that spline limited that extends along the vertical axis of bar head adapter 1108 and the endoporus with regular polygon shape of cross section.Shaft adapter 1106 shown in Figure 11 B has regular polygon outside shape of cross section, and is shaped to by the regular polygon shape of the endoporus of bar head adapter 1108 and receives and engage with it.The embodiment of other shown in Figure 11 A and the 11B has reflected only two of a plurality of various combinations of dropping on the embodiment in the scope of the present invention, and this will be identified by those skilled in the art.As example more specifically, can use the polygon shape of cross section of any needs and do not deviate from the present invention, such as the polygon on limit, 3 limit to 20.

F. additional exemplary structure of the present invention

Aspect of the present invention described herein also can be limited by following additional exemplary structure further.With reference to above description and in the exemplary club structure shown in Fig. 1 exemplary configurations is hereinafter described.

1, has the bottom and give the exemplary shaft adapter/bar head adapter assembly that send (bottom-fed) bar head adapter

Figure 12 A and 12B show the scalable shaft adapter/bar head adapter assembly according to another exemplary configurations of the present invention.Figure 12 A is the perspective cross-sectional view according to the exemplary shaft adapter 1202 and the bar head adapter 1224 of example of the present invention.Figure 12 B is the decomposition view of the adapter shown in Figure 12 A/bar head adapter assembly.

Exemplary shaft adapter 1202 is similar with above-mentioned exemplary shaft adapter 702, and wherein the outer surface of shaft adapter 1202 spline 1204 (shown in Figure 12 B) that can be extended the longitudinal axis along shaft adapter 1202 completely or partially limits.Shaft adapter 1202 can be processed by in the aforesaid suitable material one or more, and can comprise the material of the material that is different from the remainder that constitutes golf clubs.Exemplarily, shaft adapter 1202 can be formed by light material, metal alloy or polymeric material (for example, rigid polymer material) structure.

Shaft adapter 1202 is the substantial cylindrical shape, and has along first end 1206, mid portion 1208 and the second end 1210 of identical axis.According to the exemplary configurations shown in Figure 12 A and the 12B, first end 1206, mid portion 1208 and the second end 1201 can have the diameter that successively decreases separately.First end 1206 can comprise lip 1212, and it is suitable for resting on the bearing area 1214 of bar neck region 1216.Shaft adapter 1202 also comprises hole 1218, and it is configured to be attached to shaft parts 106 along offset axis 1220.Offset axis 1220 can offset any angle and not deviate from the present invention from center-pole neck axis 1222, for example, and at least 0.25 degree, at least 0.5 degree, at least 1 degree, at least 2 degree, at least 2.5 degree, at least 4 degree or even at least 8 degree.

Additionally, the second end 1210 can comprise fixed structure (the for example screwed hole in this exemplary configurations 1211), and it is assisted shaft adapter 1202 is engaged to the club head body securely, like what will more at large describe hereinafter.In this exemplary configurations, as visible in Figure 12 A, hole 1218 not double thread hole 1211 is open, but needs, and screwed hole 1211 may extend to and in structures more according to the present invention, open entering internal cavities 1218.

According to the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 12 A and the 12B, hole 1218 can have circular cross section, exemplarily to receive traditionally shaped circular shaft.Yet, needing, the shape of cross section in hole 1218 can be configured to have and be suitable for stoping the size and dimension of shaft parts 106 with respect to the rotation of shaft adapter 1202.For example, the shape in hole 1218 self can be limited spline, and said spline is shaped to and receives and engage the shaft parts with part spline outside.As above combine shaft adapter 202 said, shaft adapter 1202 can be disposed with a plurality of modes, makes hole 1218 and shaft parts 106 engage or coupling, and makes this coupling stop the rotation of shaft adapter 1202 in shaft parts 106.In other structures in addition, shaft adapter 1202 can for good and all engage (for example via adhesive or adhesive with shaft parts 106; Via welding, brazing or soldering or other integration technologies; Via mechanical connector; Frictional fit is only arranged; Deng), particularly hole 1218 has in the exemplary configurations of circular cross section with shaft parts 106 therein.Those skilled in the art will easily understand the quantity of the different modes that shaft adapter wherein 1202 and shaft parts 106 can be combined.

Other rotation stopping construction and device about the reception of shaft 106 in shaft adapter 1202 also is feasible, and does not deviate from the present invention.For example; In shaft adapter 1202 and/or the shaft parts 106 one or both can comprise frame for movement, extend into the extended structure (for example being similar to the attachment part of hydraulic tube and hydraulic pressure fuel feeding Connection Element) of opening, fluting or spine such as spring-loaded bolt or other.Detent mechanism and other physics (or alternatively, the static state) fixed structure that fits into opening, fluting or spine also can be used as to throw off and stops the portion that is rotatably connected, and does not deviate from the present invention.Therefore, in the certain exemplary structure, the connection of shaft adapter 1202 to shaft parts 106 can be and can throw off, and changes easily and promptly to allow shaft.Yet in other embodiments, shaft adapter 1202 can be integrated into shaft parts 106, or for good and all is attached to it with other mode.

As shown in Figure 12 A and the 12B, the outer surface of shaft adapter 1202 can have the shape of cross section that spline completely or partially limited that extends along shaft adapter axis 1220.Spline 1204 can form along the spine on surface, and it is set at and another surperficial spline coupling and joint in fixing position by size, such as the spline in the inboard of bar head adapter 1,224 1232.Spline 1204 can comprise the spine that is positioned on the material surface, and said material comprises shaft adapter 1202 and can be processed according to multiple known technology (for example, through extruding, molded, casting or other known fabrication techniques of being familiar with for those skilled in the art).According in the exemplary configurations shown in Figure 12 B, spline 1204 can extend along the second end 1210 of shaft adapter 1202.Therefore; The shape of cross section of the outer surface of shaft adapter 1202 is configured to have and is suitable for fitting into bar neck region 1216 (shown in Figure 12 B) and bar head adapter 1224 (is inserted in the bottom of club head 1200; As hereinafter describe), and stop the size and dimension of shaft adapter 1202 with respect to the rotation of bar head adapter 1224.

According to aspect of the present invention described herein; Spline 1241 in spline 1204, internal cavities 1242 bottoms and spline 1230 and 1232 (wherein each is all more at large described hereinafter) can comprise spine and groove alternately, and it is triangle, circle, round (squared off) or trapezoidal shape roughly.Spline 1204 (or polygon transverse cross-sectional area) can extend along the arbitrary portion of the longitudinal length of (or hole bar head adapter 1224 or bar neck region 1216) outer surface of shaft adapter 1202, and does not deviate from the present invention.For example; Spline 1204 can extend from 10% to 100% of the whole longitudinal length of the outer surface of shaft adapter 1202; And in the certain exemplary structure, spline can extend from 15% to 80% of whole longitudinal length, or extends from 20% to 60% of whole longitudinal length.The outer surface part that comprises spline 1204 also can be positioned at the position of any needs of length longitudinally, and does not deviate from the present invention, such as extending upward from the second end 1210, extend towards the second end 1210 from lug area 1212 etc.Spline 1204 also can be only part extend around the outer surface of shaft adapter 1202.For example, the outer surface of shaft adapter 1202 can be limited by the band of spline 716, and said band separates at external surface peripheral equably, along the axis 1220 or the longitudinal length extension of shaft adapter 1202.In addition, spline zone 1204,1241,1230 and 1232 alternately has the regular polygon shape of cross section, and it has the side of arbitrary number from 3 to 20 sides, and does not deviate from the present invention.

In the certain exemplary structure; Outer surface at bar head adapter 1224, shaft parts 106 and/or the shaft adapter 1202 of the position of non-circular cross sections can in axial direction shrink, thereby the diameter of member is striden first end 1206, striden the second end 1208 and stride the second end 1210 and reduce to a certain extent.This characteristic can be assisted and made shaft adapter 1202 easily fit into and skid off bar head adapter 1224 and/or avoid in manufacture process keeping the needs of extreme strict tolerance.

Exemplary connecting portion 104 can further comprise the bar head adapter 1224 according to the additional example of the present invention shown in Figure 12 A and the 12B.Bar head adapter 1224 can be processed by in the aforesaid suitable material one or more, and can comprise the material of the material that is different from the remainder that constitutes golf clubs.For example, bar head adapter 1224 can be formed by light material, metal alloy or polymeric material (for example, rigid polymer material) structure.Referring to Figure 12 A and 12B, exemplary bar head adapter 1224 comprises first end 1226 and the second end 1228.As shown in, first end 1226 and the second end 1228 is along identical axis (being depicted as the axis 1220 among Figure 12 A).Bar head adapter 1224 further comprises the hole 1231 along second axis 1234, and it is configured on second axis 1234, receive shaft adapter 1202 (shaft adapter 1202 receives shaft adapter 106 then).Therefore, the outside of bar head adapter 1224 can extend to the second end 1228 from first end 1226 along an axial direction (axis 1220), and receives different axial direction (axis 1234) extension in 1231 edges, hole of shaft adapter 1202.Those skilled in the art will make things convenient for geography to separate after the disclosure to have the multiple combination of structural detail and/or process to can be used for realizing two axis of bar head adapter 1224 and not deviate from the present invention in examination.Differential seat angle between the first axle 1220 and second axis 1234 can be any angle and does not deviate from the present invention, for example, and at least 0.25 degree, at least 0.5 degree, at least 1 degree, at least 2 degree, at least 2.5 degree, at least 4 degree or even at least 8 degree.

The hole 1231 of bar head adapter 1224 also can have the shape of cross section that the spline 1232 longitudinal extension in hole 1231 is limited, and it can be shaped to and in fixing position, receive and engage the spline 1204 on the outside that is positioned at shaft adapter 1202.Spline 1232 can comprise the spine that is positioned on the material surface, and said material comprises shaft adapter 1224 and can be processed according to multiple known technology (for example, through extruding, molded, casting or other known fabrication techniques of being familiar with for those skilled in the art).Therefore the shape of cross section in hole 1231 can be configured to have and be suitable for stoping the size and dimension of shaft adapter 1202 with respect to the rotation of bar head adapter 1224.According to viewgraph of cross-section, Figure 12 A, only the part in hole 1231 and shaft adapter 1202 engage or coupling.In other embodiments, bar head adapter 1224 can be set in the whole length that makes the shaft adapter be received in bar head adapter 1224 by size.

In the concrete exemplary configurations in being illustrated in Figure 12 A and 12B, club head 1200 can have internal cavities 1242, and it is limited in the bottom of club head 1200, provides opening along axis 1220 to be used to receive bar head adapter 1224.Like finding in Figure 12 A; Bar head adapter 1224 is suitable for being inserted in the internal cavities 1242, thereby the second end 1228 of bar head adapter 1224 receives and engage the second end 1210 of the shaft adapter 1202 in the bar neck region 1216 of club head 1200 with the mode that stops rotation.Internal cavities 1242 can as limit at 1236 at the insertion interface shown in Figure 12 A.According to the exemplary configurations shown in Figure 12 A, bar head adapter 1224 also comprises flange 1244, and it can rest and insert on the interface 1236.The outer surface of bar head adapter 1224 also can be limited by spline 1230, and said spline can be configured to received and engage by the spline in the bottom of internal cavities 1,242 1241 with the mode that stops rotation.

Packing ring 1240 and bolt 1238 that shaft adapter 1202/ bar head adapter 1224 assemblies can be illustrated are fixed to club head.It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that and have multiple mode with fixing Figure 12 A and 12B embodiment in the heart.For example, place of bolt 1238, bar head adapter 1224 can for good and all be fixed in the internal cavities 1242 of bar neck region by known technology.

Other prevention rotational structure also is possible with arranging, and does not deviate from the present invention.For example; In bar head adapter 1224 or the shaft parts 1202 one or both can comprise frame for movement, extend into the extended structure (for example being similar to the attachment part of hydraulic tube and hydraulic pressure fuel feeding Connection Element) of opening, fluting or spine such as spring-loaded bolt or other.Detent mechanism and other physics (or alternatively, the static state) fixed structure that fits into opening, fluting or spine also can be used as to throw off and stops the portion that is rotatably connected, and does not deviate from the present invention.

As shown in Figure 12 A, shaft adapter 1202 only can be configured to that part fits in the bar head adapter 1224.Yet in other structures, shaft adapter 1202 can extend more or less than the axial length of bar head adapter 1224.In other exemplary configurations according to the present invention; Bar head adapter 1224 can be integrated in club head 1200 or otherwise for good and all be fixed to it, as is received in the part of bar neck region 1236 or integrally is made for the part of bar neck region 1236.In said structure, possibly there is not the outer surface (although bar neck hole can " off-axis " mode extend, if the outboard beam neck is present in the club head structure) of bar head adapter 1224 from bar neck outer surface.

The decomposition view of shaft adapter 1202/ bar head adapter 1224 assemblies among Figure 12 B also obviously shows in the SOME METHODS that can be used for constructing according to certain aspects of the invention golf clubs.According to illustrative methods, shaft parts 106 are attached to shaft adapter 1202, and wherein shaft adapter 106 is inserted in along in the hole 1218 that second axis 1220 extends.This method can comprise in the hole 1231 with the second end 1210 insertion rod head adapters 1224 of shaft adapter 1202 further; Wherein said hole 1231 comprises the shape of cross section that is limited spline 1231, and is shaped to the spline 1204 that receives and engage the second end 1210 of shaft adapter 1202 with a plurality of different orientations.This method can further comprise bar head adapter 1224 is inserted in the bottom of the club head 1200 in the zone 1242 that is limited insert 1236.The said base section of bar neck region 1216 or the bottom of internal cavities 1242 can comprise inside opening; It has the shape of cross section that is limited spline 1241, and said shape of cross section is formalized in the spline 1230 that receives the second end 1228 of bar head adapter 1224 with a plurality of different orientations.According to the structure of selecting, the insertion in the bar neck region of bar head adapter 1224 on the bottom that is limited to club head 1236 can be selected from a plurality of different orientations, for example, like 1236 places by Figure 12 B, 1-8 indicated sign.Therefore; Can comprise according to additive method of the present invention: shaft adapter 1202 is removed from bar head adapter 1224; And in the hole 1231 of the second end 1210 with shaft adapter 1202 with different orientation (for example, in different rotary positions) insertion rod head adapter 1224 again; And/or bar head adapter 1224 removed from bar neck region 1236, and bar head adapter 1224 inserted with different orientations again in the bottom of bar neck region 1236 of club head 1200.

In case after inserting, can shaft adapter 1202 and bar head adapter 1224 be fixed to club head 1200 through the internal cavities 1242 at the bottom of the bar that fixed system 1238 is passed club head 1299 and with fixed system 1238 and fixed structure 1211 joints that are arranged in the shaft adapter 1202.The words that need; Bar head adapter 1224 and club head 1200 position contacting are (for example; Spine 1243 places and/or bar neck opening part are being installed) and/or the position of fixed system 1238 contact club head 1200 can comprise flexible material (such as packing ring, pad, O shape ring, elastomer packing ring or coating etc.), so that noise and/or vibration suppression etc. to be provided.Connected system shown in this exemplarily can be dismantled through the bolt member 1238 of back-outing easily.Need, bolt 1238 and internal cavities 1242 can be constructed to stop bolt 1238 bolt 1,238 1242 come off (for example, through the ring of increase is provided on the free end of bolt 1238) fully internally when shaft adapter 1202 is thrown off.Bolt 1238 can comprise head, and it has because the structure of turnbuckle screw cutter, L-shape spanner or other instruments.

Because the axis in the hole 1218 in the shaft adapter 1202 can be opened from the journal offset of the outer surface of shaft adapter 1202; And because the axis in the hole 1231 in the bar head adapter 1224 can be opened from the journal offset of its outer surface, any rotation with respect to club head 1200 in the said adapter will change the position of shaft parts 106 with respect to the batting surface of club head.As above combine before this exemplary configurations more detailed description; This characteristic with can throw off connected system 104 together; Allow club fitter (or other people) free and (for example regulate shaft parts 106 easily with respect to all angles of club head 102 and/or position; At the bottom of the variable bar, the combination of club and face angle); And still using identical shaft 106 and/or bar head 102, this can help the user more easily combination and the layout of definite optimized club head/shaft, to satisfy its needs.

2, the exemplary shaft adapter/bar head adapter component drawings that adds

13A and 13B show the scalable shaft adapter/bar head adapter assembly according to another exemplary configurations in addition of the present invention.At the shaft adapter/bar head adapter assembly shown in the decomposition view of the viewgraph of cross-section of Figure 13 A and Figure 13 B and similar with the exemplary configurations shown in Figure 12 A-12B at Fig. 7-9.Therefore, with combining the exemplary configurations among Fig. 7-9 and Figure 12 A-12B to describe.

Exemplary shaft adapter 1302 is similar with above-mentioned

exemplary shaft adapter

702 and 1202, and wherein the outer surface of shaft adapter 1302 spline 1304 (shown in Figure 13 B) that can be extended the longitudinal axis along shaft adapter 1302 completely or partially limits.Shaft adapter 1302 can be processed by in the aforesaid suitable material one or more, and can comprise the material of the material that is different from the remainder that constitutes golf clubs.Exemplarily, shaft adapter 1302 can be formed by light material, metal alloy or polymeric material (for example, rigid polymer material) structure.

Shaft adapter 1302 is the substantial cylindrical shape, and has first end 1306 and the second end 1310 along identical axis.According to the exemplary configurations shown in Figure 13 A and 13, shaft adapter 1302 can reduce diameter from first end 1306 to the second end 1306.Referring to Figure 13 B, first end 1306 can comprise outside outburst area 1312, its be suitable for resting on the first end 1326 of bar head adapter 1324 and with its coupling.Shaft adapter 1302 also comprises hole 1318, and it is configured to be attached to shaft parts 106 along offset axis 1320.Offset axis 1320 can offset about 2 degree from center-pole neck axis 1322; But deviation angle can be any angle and does not deviate from the present invention; For example, at least 0.25 degree, at least 0.5 degree, at least 1 degree, at least 2 degree, at least 2.5 degree, at least 4 degree or even at least 8 degree.

According to the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 13 A and the 13B, hole 1318 can have circular cross section, exemplarily to receive traditionally shaped circular shaft.As above combine shaft adapter 202 and shaft adapter 1202 said; Shaft adapter 1302 can be disposed with a plurality of modes; Make hole 1318 and shaft parts 106 engage or coupling, and make this coupling stop the rotation of shaft adapter 1302 in shaft parts 106.Those skilled in the art will easily understand the quantity of the different modes that shaft adapter wherein 1302 and shaft parts 106 can be combined.

As shown in Figure 13 A and the 13B, the outer surface of shaft adapter 1302 can have spline 1304 shape of cross sections that completely or partially limit that extend along shaft adapter axis 1320.Spline can form along the spine on surface, and it is set at and another surperficial spline coupling and joint in fixing position, the inboard of said another surface such as bar head adapter 1324 by size.The spline of here being quoted about Figure 13 A and 13B can be set size as previously mentioned, set shape, and processing.According in the exemplary configurations shown in Figure 13 B, spline 1304 can extend along the second end 1310 of shaft adapter 1302.Therefore, the shape of cross section of the outer surface of shaft adapter 1302 is configured to have and is suitable for fitting into bar head adapter 1324 and stops the size and dimension of shaft adapter 1302 with respect to the rotation of bar head adapter 1324.Spline 1304 (or alternatively; The polygon transverse cross-sectional area) can extend along the arbitrary portion of the longitudinal length of (or hole bar head adapter 1324 or bar neck region 1316) outer surface of shaft adapter 1302; And do not deviate from the present invention, described with the exemplary configurations among Figure 12 A-12B as before this about Fig. 7-9.In addition,

zone

1304,1330 and 1332 alternately has the regular polygon shape of cross section, and it has the side of arbitrary number from 3 to 20 sides, and does not deviate from the present invention.

In the certain exemplary structure; Outer surface at the bar head adapter 1324 of the position of non-circular cross sections, shaft parts 106, shaft adapter 1302 can in axial direction shrink, thereby the diameter of member reduces from first end to the second end to a certain extent.This characteristic can be assisted and made shaft adapter 1302 easily fit into and skid off bar head adapter 1324 and/or avoid in manufacture process keeping the needs of extreme strict tolerance.

Exemplary configurations shown in Figure 13 A and the 13B can further comprise bar head adapter 1324.Bar head adapter 1324 can be processed by in the aforesaid suitable material one or more, and can comprise the material of the material that is different from the remainder that constitutes golf clubs, as previously mentioned.For example, bar head adapter 1324 can be formed by light material, metal alloy or polymeric material (for example, rigid polymer material) structure.Referring to Figure 13 A and 13B, exemplary bar head adapter 1324 comprises first end 1326 and the second end 1328.As shown in, first end 1326 and the second end 1328 is along identical axis (being depicted as the axis 1320 of Figure 13 A).Bar head adapter 1324 further comprises the hole 1331 along second axis 1334, and it is configured in and receives shaft adapter 1302 (shaft adapter 1302 receives shaft adapter 106 then) on second axis 1334.Therefore, the outside of bar head adapter 1324 can extend to the second end 1328 from first end 1326 along an axial direction (axis 1320), and receives different axial direction (axis 1334) extension in 1331 edges, hole of shaft adapter 1302.Those skilled in the art will make things convenient for geography to separate after the disclosure to have the multiple combination of structural detail and/or process to can be used for realizing two axis of bar head adapter 1324 and not deviate from the present invention in examination.Differential seat angle between the first axle 1320 and second axis 1334 can be any angle and does not deviate from the present invention, for example, and at least 0.25 degree, at least 0.5 degree, at least 1 degree, at least 2 degree, at least 2.5 degree, at least 4 degree or even at least 8 degree.

The hole 1231 of bar head adapter 1324 also can have 1232 shape of cross sections that limit at least in part of spline longitudinal extension in hole 1331, and it can be shaped to and in fixing position, receive and engage the spline 1304 on the outside that is positioned at shaft adapter 1302.Spline 1332 also can be set size as previously mentioned, set shape and processing.Therefore the shape of cross section of endoporus 1331 can be configured to have and be suitable for stoping the size and dimension of shaft adapter 1302 with respect to the rotation of bar head adapter 1324.According to viewgraph of cross-section, Figure 13 A, shaft adapter 1302 can be inserted into, thus it is complementary with the entire portion in hole 1331.In other embodiments, bar head adapter 1324 can be set in the only part of the whole length that makes the shaft adapter be received in bar head adapter 1324 by size.

In the concrete exemplary configurations in being illustrated in Figure 13 A and 13B, club head 1300 can have space 1342, and it is limited in the bottom of club head, provides opening along axis 1320 to be used to receive bar head adapter 1324.As visible in Figure 13 A, space 1342 can limit inserting interface 1336.According to the exemplary configurations shown in Figure 13 A, shaft adapter 1302/ bar head adapter 1324 assemblies can be fixed to club head from the bottom of the club head that illustrates through packing ring 1340 and bolt 1338.But, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that to have multiple mode with fixing Figure 13 A and 13B embodiment in the heart.

In other exemplary configurations according to the present invention; Bar head adapter 1324 can be integrated in club head 1300 or otherwise for good and all be fixed to it, as is received in the part of bar neck region 1316 or integrally is made for the part of bar neck region 1316.In said structure, possibly there is not the outer surface (although bar neck hole can " off-axis " mode extend, if the outboard beam neck is present in the club head structure) of bar head adapter 1324 from bar neck outer surface.

The decomposition view of shaft adapter 1302/ bar head adapter 1324 assemblies among Figure 13 B also obviously shows in the SOME METHODS that can be used for constructing according to certain aspects of the invention golf clubs.According to illustrative methods, shaft parts 106 are attached to shaft adapter 1302, and wherein shaft adapter 106 is inserted in along in the hole 1318 that second axis 1320 extends.This method can comprise in the hole 1331 with the second end 1310 insertion rod head adapters 1324 of shaft adapter 1302 further; Wherein said hole 1331 comprises the shape of cross section that is limited spline 1332, and is shaped to the spline 1304 that receives the second end 1310 of shaft adapter 1302 with a plurality of different orientations.This method can further comprise to be inserted bar head adapter 1324 in the bar neck region 1316 of club head 1300.Bar neck region 1316 can comprise inside opening, and it has the shape of cross section that is limited spline, and said shape of cross section is formalized in the spline 1330 that receives the second end 1328 of bar head adapter 1324 with a plurality of different orientations.According to aspect described herein, bar head adapter 1324 can be exemplarily through clockwise or be rotated counterclockwise and with in a plurality of different orientation insertion rod neck region 1316 with bar head adapter 1324.Therefore; Can comprise according to additive method of the present invention shaft adapter 1302 is removed from bar head adapter 1324; And with in the hole 1331 of the second end 1310 with different orientation insertion rod head adapter 1323 again of shaft adapter 1302 (for example, in different rotary positions).

Because the axis in the hole 1318 in the shaft adapter 1302 can be opened from the journal offset of the outer surface of shaft adapter 1302; And because the axis in the hole 1331 in the bar head adapter 1324 can be opened from the journal offset of its outer surface, any rotation with respect to club head 1300 in the said adapter will change the position of shaft parts 106 with respect to the batting surface of club head.As above combine before this exemplary configurations more detailed description; This characteristic with can throw off connected system 104 together; Allow club fitter (or other people) free and (for example regulate shaft parts 106 easily with respect to all angles of club head 102 and/or position; The combination of variable bar head inclination angle, loft and face angle); And still using identical shaft 106 and/or bar head 102, this can help the user more easily combination and the layout of definite optimized club head/shaft, to satisfy its needs.

The exemplary configurations of other shown in Figure 12 A-12B and the 13A-13B has been reacted only two of a plurality of various combinations of dropping on the embodiment in the scope of the present invention, and this can be identified by those skilled in the art.As example more specifically, illustrate and be described as also can have the polygon shape of cross section, such as the polygon on limit, 3 limit to 20 on any surface that the spline among Figure 12 A-12B and the 13A-13B limits.

Conclusion

Although about the particular example that comprises the currently preferred embodiment that is used for embodiment of the present invention the present invention has been carried out detailed description, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the multiple variation and the displacement that have said system and method.Therefore, the claim that the spirit and scope of the present invention should be liked enclosed is illustrated, and is broadly understood.

Claims

1. golf clubs comprises:

Shaft;

The shaft adapter; Be engaged to said shaft; Said shaft adapter has first end and the second end along first axle; Said shaft adapter also comprises the endoporus that extends along second axis, and an end of wherein said shaft extends into the shaft adapter that is arranged on second axis, and wherein at least a portion of the outer surface of shaft adapter has non-circular transverse cross-section;

The bar head adapter; It has along the first end of first axle and the second end; Said bar head adapter also comprises the endoporus that has along the non-circular transverse cross-section of second axis, and said hole is shaped to the part with non-circular transverse cross-section that receives and engage the outer surface of shaft adapter with irrotational mode and with a plurality of different orientations; With

Glof club head has the bar neck region that engages with the outer surface of said bar head adapter.

2. golf clubs as claimed in claim 1; The non-circular transverse cross-section of the outer surface of wherein said shaft adapter is limited the spline along first axle; And the non-circular transverse cross-section of the endoporus of said bar head adapter is limited the spline of second axis of the said bar head adapter in edge, and is oriented as reception and engages the spline on the outer surface that is positioned at said shaft adapter.

3. golf clubs as claimed in claim 1; At least a portion of the internal cavities of the bar neck region of wherein said club head has non-circular transverse cross-section; At least a portion of the outer surface of wherein said bar head adapter has non-circular transverse cross-section, and it can be by with in irrotational mode and the non-circular transverse cross-section that is received in said bar neck region with a plurality of different orientations and engage.

4. golf clubs as claimed in claim 3; The non-circular transverse cross-section of the outer surface of wherein said bar head adapter is limited the spline along first axle, and the non-circular transverse cross-section of the internal cavities of said bar neck region limits being oriented to the spline that receives and engage the spline on the outer surface that is positioned at said bar head adapter.

5. golf clubs as claimed in claim 1, second axis of wherein said shaft adapter offsets about 1 degree from the first axle of said shaft adapter.

6. golf clubs as claimed in claim 1, second axis of wherein said bar head adapter offsets about 2 degree from the first axle of said shaft adapter.

7. method that is used to assemble golf club comprises:

The shaft parts are attached to the shaft adapter; This shaft adapter has first end and the second end along first axle; Wherein said shaft parts are inserted in along second axis and are limited in the endoporus in the said shaft adapter, and at least a portion of the outer surface of wherein said shaft adapter has non-circular transverse cross-section; With

Said shaft adapter is inserted in the endoporus of said bar head adapter; Wherein said bar head adapter comprises first end and the second end along first axle; And wherein said endoporus has the non-circular transverse cross-section along second axis, and said non-circular transverse cross-section is shaped to the part with non-circular cross sections that receives and engage the outer surface of shaft adapter with irrotational mode and a plurality of different orientations.

8. method as claimed in claim 7; The non-circular transverse cross-section of the outer surface of wherein said shaft adapter is limited the spline along first axle; And the non-circular transverse cross-section of the endoporus of said bar head adapter is limited the spline of second axis of the said bar head adapter in edge, and is oriented as reception and engages the spline on the outer surface that is positioned at said shaft adapter.

9. method as claimed in claim 7; At least a portion of the outer surface of wherein said bar head adapter has the non-circular transverse cross-section that is limited the spline along first axle; And wherein at least a portion of the internal cavities of the bar neck region of club head has being oriented to the spline that receives and engage the spline on the outer surface that is positioned at said bar head adapter and limits, and wherein said method also comprises:

Said bar head adapter is inserted in the bar neck region of said club head, make the spline of outer surface of said bar head adapter with the splined engagement in the internal cavities of irrotational mode and said bar neck region.

10. method as claimed in claim 7, wherein said bar head adapter is integrally formed the part of the bar neck region of club head.

11. method as claimed in claim 10; The non-circular transverse cross-section of the outer surface of wherein said shaft adapter is limited the spline along first axle, and the bar neck region of said club head has the non-circular transverse cross-section that spline limited that receives and engage the spline on the outer surface that is positioned at said shaft adapter being oriented to.

12. method as claimed in claim 7, it also comprises:

Said shaft adapter is removed from said bar head adapter, and the second end of said shaft adapter is inserted in the endoporus of said bar head adapter with different orientations again.

13. method as claimed in claim 9, it also comprises:

The bar neck region of said bar head adapter from said club head removed, and said bar head adapter is inserted in the bar neck region of said club head with different orientations again.

14. method as claimed in claim 9, second axis of wherein said shaft adapter offsets about 1 degree from the first axle that said shaft props up orchestration.

15. method as claimed in claim 9, second axis of wherein said bar head adapter offsets about 2 degree from the first axle of said shaft adapter.

16. glof club head and shaft connected system comprise:

The shaft adapter; Have first end and the second end along first axle; Said shaft adapter also comprises edge second extension and is configured to be attached to the endoporus of the shaft parts that are positioned on second axis that at least a portion of the outer surface of wherein said shaft adapter is configured to the engaging lever head adapter and has the shape of cross section that is limited the spline along first axle; With

The bar head adapter; Have first end and the second end along first axle; Said bar head adapter also comprises the endoporus of the shape of cross section that is limited the spline along second axis; Said endoporus is shaped to a plurality of orientations receptions and engages the spline on the outer surface that is arranged on said shaft adapter, and the outer surface of the second end of wherein said bar head adapter is configured to engage the bar neck region of club head.

17. glof club head as claimed in claim 16 and shaft connected system also comprise:

The instruction personnel carry out the specification of following method:

The shaft parts are inserted the endoporus at the first end place that is arranged in said shaft adapter; With

With the second end of said shaft adapter with in one in a plurality of different orientations endoporus that inserts said bar head adapter.

18. glof club head as claimed in claim 17 and shaft connected system also comprise:

Club head, it comprises the bar neck region, this bar neck region has the transverse cross-sectional area that spline limited that receives and engage the second end of said bar head adapter being oriented to, and wherein said specification also the instruction personnel carry out following method:

In the bar neck region of said bar head adapter with one in a plurality of different orientations said club head of insertion.

19. glof club head as claimed in claim 18 and shaft connected system also comprise:

With said shaft adapter and said bar head adapter a plurality of different orientations or said shaft adapter and said bar head adapter relative to each other with respect at least one information that is associated with face angle, bar head inclination angle and the loft angle of said club head in a plurality of different orientations of the bar neck region of said club head.

20. a golf clubs comprises:

Shaft;

The shaft adapter; Be engaged to said shaft; Said shaft adapter has first end and the second end along first axle; Said shaft adapter also comprises the hole of extending along second axis, and an end of wherein said shaft extends into the shaft adapter that is arranged on second axis, and wherein at least a portion of the outer surface of shaft adapter is a non-circular transverse cross-section; With

Glof club head; Has the bar neck region; This bar neck region integral body is formed with endoporus; This endoporus has the non-circular transverse cross-section that extends along first axle, and said endoporus is shaped to the part with non-circular transverse cross-section that receives and engage the outer surface of shaft adapter with irrotational mode and with a plurality of different orientations.