EP2666523A1 - Compact set of configurable golf clubs - Google Patents
Compact set of configurable golf clubs Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2666523A1 EP2666523A1 EP10861492.6A EP10861492A EP2666523A1 EP 2666523 A1 EP2666523 A1 EP 2666523A1 EP 10861492 A EP10861492 A EP 10861492A EP 2666523 A1 EP2666523 A1 EP 2666523A1
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- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- loft
- head
- adjustable
- shaft
- section
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/02—Joint structures between the head and the shaft
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/04—Heads
- A63B53/0466—Heads wood-type
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/04—Heads
- A63B53/047—Heads iron-type
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/04—Heads
- A63B53/0487—Heads for putters
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/04—Heads
- A63B53/06—Heads adjustable
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/14—Handles
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
- A63B60/06—Handles
- A63B60/22—Adjustable handles
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
- A63B60/06—Handles
- A63B60/22—Adjustable handles
- A63B60/28—Adjustable handles with adjustable length
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2209/00—Characteristics of used materials
- A63B2209/02—Characteristics of used materials with reinforcing fibres, e.g. carbon, polyamide fibres
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/005—Club sets
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/02—Joint structures between the head and the shaft
- A63B53/022—Joint structures between the head and the shaft allowing adjustable positioning of the head with respect to the shaft
- A63B53/023—Joint structures between the head and the shaft allowing adjustable positioning of the head with respect to the shaft adjustable angular orientation
- A63B53/026—Joint structures between the head and the shaft allowing adjustable positioning of the head with respect to the shaft adjustable angular orientation loft angle only, i.e. relative angular adjustment between the shaft and the club head about a horizontal axis perpendicular to the intended line of play when the club is in its normal address position
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T29/00—Metal working
- Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
- Y10T29/49826—Assembling or joining
Definitions
- Field of application is a compact, configurable golf club set.
- the club set in this invention allows for adjustment of basic club characteristics, enabling players to adjust clubs to their strokes by varying the shaft length, interchanging heads on said shaft and/or modifying the head loft angle.
- the compact set in this invention comprehensively encompasses shafts, woods, irons and putter.
- a defining head characteristic is the loft angle or angle at which the ball is hit: acute angles for short, precise distances, right angles for longer distances.
- shaft length and flexibility vary with distance of shot: short, stiff shafts for short distances, longer, more flexible shafts for longer distances.
- Woods and hybrids are designed for tee-off (designated area from which players take their first shot) or fairway (zone extending from the tee to the putting green) strokes.
- Loft angles normally vary from 8° to 28°. Depending on player style, they can assemble a set of some five heads of this type in the bag. Woods are classified as 1-wood or driver with 8° to 13° loft angles, 2-wood with 12° to 15° loft angles, and all the way to 7-wood with 25° to 28° loft angles. Although woods rise all the way to 15-wood, few players use them. Two-woods and up are also known as fairway woods. Hybrids have the appearance of wood with a lower profile or head height, with angles similar to 5- or 7-wood.
- Some hybrids have more acute angles, such as the equivalent to a 5-iron with about 28°.
- the length of a 1-wood club based on an adult of average height, ranges from 43 to 45 inches (109 to 114 cm). Length decreases progressively one half to one inch (1.27 to 2.54 cm) as club numbers rise to 7-wood, with an approximate length of 41 inches (104 cm).
- Irons and wedges are intended for mid-distance and approach shots. In most of these, loft angle varies from 15° to 62° and, depending on player preference, they make up a selection of about nine clubs in the bag. Irons range from 1 to 9. Number 1 is equivalent to loft angles of 15° to 18°, increasing gradually through number 9, equivalent to loft angles of 45° to 48°. Wedges include pitch wedge (47° to 53°), gab wedge (50° to 54°), sand wedge (54° to 58°) and lob wedge (58° to 62°). The length of a 1-iron club, based on an adult of average height, varies at about 40 inches (102 cm). Length decreases progressively by a half-inch (1.27 cm) as club numbers rise to 9-iron at some 36 inches (91 cm). Wedge shaft lengths are about 35 inches (89 cm).
- Putters are used for putting green strokes intended to put the ball in the hole. There is a large variety of heads, with loft angles from 2° to 5°. Players choose the putter best suited to their game and put a single club of this type in the bag. While lengths vary widely, the most conventional and therefore most often used stands at about 35 inches (89 cm).
- the novelty in this innovation lies in the combination of related functionalities in a golf device featuring a compact, configurable format emulating the performance of a complete standard club set.
- the state of the art on configurable or adjustable clubs includes attempts that do not address issues in a comprehensive manner and whose technical elements do not consider the aspects of the game addressed by conventional or standard club sets.
- many such schemes need excessive manipulation requiring release, position setting and locking schemes, US PAT. 5,083,779 , US PAT. 2,091,794 .
- connection mechanisms whose basic design concept does not allow for tight coupling, a key issue considering that such couplings are to be performed by players on the course prior to shot play.
- the results are connection mechanisms that are not easily adjusted and give the feeling of playing with loose pieces, US PAT. 6,547,673 , US PAT. 5,083,779 , US PAT. 4,253,666 , US PAT. 2,091,794 .
- the basic design concept of mechanisms in this invention include adjustments and/or couplings that can be quickly performed and provide inter-piece tolerances based on compression of pieces of robust basic trigonometry. All mechanisms seek to balance aesthetics and weight and avoid high-stress areas leaving pieces susceptible to early fracture or deterioration due to materials fatigue.
- Proper adjustment consists of choosing the right head and loft angle and a shaft length consistent with the selected head. Such adjustments should be easily done by any player prior to shot play, within the allotted timeframe. The result should be a solidly assembled club equivalent to a standard club.
- Proper adjustment consists of choosing the right head and loft angle and a shaft length consistent with the selected head. Such adjustments should be easily done by any player, whether a child, adult or senior, prior to shot play and within the allotted timeframe. Lastly, the required club needs solid adjustment mechanisms not subject to premature fracture or wear. This is especially important when considering that all shots in a game could be played using one or two clubs.
- the novelty in this innovation lies in the combination of related functionalities in a golf device featuring a compact, configurable format emulating the performance of a complete standard club set.
- the first functionality is that, as with a conventional club set, the compact, configurable set in this invention can include wood drivers, fairway woods, hybrids and irons, totally or partially encompassing 1 to 9, wedges and putters.
- each of these head types can vary their loft angle by means of a mechanism such that the full range of loft angles is adequately covered. This does not prevent extending beyond the conventional head loft angle range or defining heads with more targeted loft angle ranges.
- the latter requires a larger number of heads in the compact set, but it has the advantage that head behavior more closely resembles conventional head behavior, for example in terms of weight and therefore moment of inertia or swingweight behavior.
- the adjustable loft works by means of a mechanism attached to the rear area of the head and joined to a modified hosel. It has the shape of a triangle one of whose sides can be manually adjusted by means of a screw.
- the second functionality means that the game can be played using a reduced number of heads that can be interchanged, preferably on one or a reduced number of shafts.
- both shafts would include a head interchange mechanism.
- the head interchange mechanism consists of a guide pin attached to the hosel which is then coupled to a pair of concentric cylinders on one end of the shaft and which contain balls that lock the mechanism by lodging in the recesses of said guide pin. The mechanism is operated by the player using his fingers to move the outermost cylinder.
- a fourth functionality is that since the proposition is to play the game using one or a reduced number of shafts, their length must be adjustable per the selected head and loft angle.
- the shaft length adjustment mechanism consists of a shaft with surface recesses housing a sliding handle, which in turn houses a pair of concentric cylinders on one end of said handle and which contain balls that lock the mechanism by lodging in the recesses of said shaft. The mechanism is operated by the player using his fingers to move the outermost cylinder.
- a fifth functionality is that since the head loft angle changes, the head should preferably contain a modified sole so as to ensure correct lie (horizontal head rest on ground) for the range of loft angles defined for this head.
- a sixth functionality is that head interchange mechanism allows for the use of any commercially available head with a standard hosel. This permits using the adjustable compact set with conventional, commercially available heads of the player's choosing; for example putter and/or 1-wood or driver type heads.
- the hosel is construed to be the socket or neck in the head of a golf club into which a shaft is inserted.
- the adjustable compact set behaves in a manner that is at least equivalent to a conventional club set.
- the compact set can be used with commercially available fixed heads. This is especially useful for 1-wood heads and putters, as players tend to be loyal to certain models, notably putters.
- Assembling an adjustable club is simple and requires at most three steps: (a) choose a head and shaft and connect them; (b) adjust loft angle, assuming an adjustable loft head, and (c) adjust shaft length. These mechanisms are easily operated by players using their fingers.
- connectors are designed to remain firmly coupled during shot play, giving players the sensation of a solid club and stroke.
- the device also helps golfers improve their game, as it allows for numerous variations for a given shot.
- Players can choose the combination best suited in terms of precision and/or distance and the device stays with them as their game evolves.
- the adjustable set presents a clear advantage for children, since as a configurable device, it adapts to their physical development.
- the set significantly reduces standard club set volume and weight by 1/5 and 1/3 respectively, providing the benefits below:
- the adjustable compact set requires significantly less space and can be easily carried by car or airplane, which is especially convenient if more than one family member practices the sport. Carrying a standard club set to distant destinations is often not feasible due to space or cost considerations. The only options are storing a standard club set at each golf course frequented or resorting to rentals or loans. These examples do not apply to the adjustable compact set, which holds the significant advantage of allowing players to always use the same device at all locations, since as noted, space or cost considerations would no longer be a concern.
- the compact golf club set configurable at player discretion prior to shot play shown in figures 1-2 .
- it comprises at least adjustable-length shaft 100 in multiple discrete length positions 165, enabled by telescoping handle 110 as shown on figures 3-5 .
- Said adjustable-length shaft 100 includes head interchange mechanism 170 enabling connection of at least interchangeable head 200, 300, 400.
- Said interchangeable head has options for:
- interchangeable head means both fixed and adjustable loft types and/or combinations thereof:
- the compact golf club set configurable during game play allows for numerous combinations to be defined by manufacturer and player preference. Examples 1-2 show two possible configurations in detail.
- Example 1 in figure 1 shows a compact set comprising a shaft and three heads:
- This example illustrates a highly compact four-piece set of interest to players wishing to significantly reduce weight and volume over a standard 14-club set and bag.
- Players wishing to closely match a complete 14-club set need only increase the number of elements in their compact, configurable golf club set. As would a pro, players need to choose the elements to be used in the course.
- Example 2 covers this case.
- Example 2 in figure 2 illustrates an eight-piece set consisting of two shafts and six heads: a putter head, two adjustable-loft iron heads, an adjustable-loft wedge head, a fixed-loft wood driver and an adjustable-loft fairway wood, as follows: Two adjustable-length shafts 100, including a more flexible shaft allowing interchangeable wood heads 200 to cover longer distances, and a stiffer shaft for interchangeable iron heads 300 and interchangeable putter heads 400; A fixed-loft putter head 401; An adjustable-loft iron head 302 that could be developed to cover average weight and loft angles for 4- to 6-iron head set 310; An adjustable-loft iron head 302 that could be developed to cover average weight and loft angles for 7- to 9-iron head set 320; An adjustable-loft iron head 302 that could be developed to cover average weight and loft angles for pitch wedge to lob wedge set 330; A fixed-loft wood head 201 equivalent to 1-wood or driver head 210; and An adjustable-loft wood head
- Weight is part and parcel of head design and construction criteria. Heavier heads generate greater moment of inertia or swingweight. For the sake of simplicity during game play, one way to vary the moment of inertia in this invention is to replace different weight heads on the shaft. Another way is to modify shaft length. This invention suggests that adjustable loft heads be designed with a weight near the average for the range of heads whose loft is to be emulated.
- Adjustable-length shaft 100 is described below. Length of said shaft can be adjusted in multiple discrete positions 165 by means of telescoping handle 110. Said shaft includes head interchange mechanism 170. As shown on figures 3-5 , adjustable-length shaft 100 consists of the following elements:
- interchangeable heads 200, 300 with adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b are interchangeable heads 200, 300 with adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b.
- the preferred adjustable-loft iron head 302 version is described in figures 21-25 .
- the preferred adjustable-loft wood head 202 version is described in figures 26-30 , and the preferred version of the sole of an adjustable loft head is described in figures 17-20 .
- the compact, configurable golf club set in figures 1-2 also calls for interchangeable heads 200, 300 with adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b in figures 21-25 and 26-30 , which comprise:
- modified sole geometry 545 allows horizontally supporting the head on the ground as head loft angle is increased with adjustable loft mechanism 500.
- said adjustable loft mechanism 500 allows for continuous loft angles, to compensate for or adjust the geometry of sole 504 this invention proposes at least three angles: loft angle ends 548 or the adjustable loft mechanism design limits, and an intermediate loft angle 547.
- Other configurations can be interpolated and applied on the sole face by means of a scan section, thus providing a continuous surface approaching the full range of angles defined in said adjustable loft mechanism 500.
- this sole configuration is referred to as modified sole geometry 545.
- the above adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b shown on figures 21 and 26 comprises three vertices forming a triangular configuration joined to an adjustable loft mechanism head. Changing vertex angles and/or triangle side length modifies head loft angle 509a, 509b.
- the preferred configuration is shown as two adjustable vertices or pivots and a vertex joined to loft axis section 537a, 537b. The latter transfers the adjustable angle from the head to the shaft and thus allows loft angle adjustment 509a, 509b.
- the first vertex pivot 511 a, 511 b is joined to the head body.
- the second vertex is fixed 512a, 512b, matching and joined to loft axis section 537a, 537b.
- the third vertex pivot 513a, 513b is the intersection of first connecting rod 514a, 514b extending from the first vertex pivot 511 a, 511 b and second connecting rod 515a, 515b extending from second joint vertex 512a, 512b.
- second connecting rod 515a, 515b is joined to loft axis section 537a, 537b.
- the length of one of the said rods may be modified by changing the relative angle between club head face 506a, 506b and loft axis section 537a, 537b, thereby changing loft angle 509a, 509b.
- adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b involves modifying rod length, as shown on figures 23 and 28 , by means of screw 516a, 516b whose orientation matches the axis of one of said rods.
- One end of screw 516a, 516b rotates on its axis without axial movement, held by a bearing 524a, 524b matching one of the pivot vertices.
- the opposite side of screw 516a, 516b rotates on its axis and moves axially in bearing nut 526a, 526b, matching the pivot vertex opposite.
- Adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b comprises a rear head area.
- the said area may comprise the rear of face 502a and/or the face frame and/or sole 504a.
- the said iron head area comprises the rear of face 502a and part of sole 504a, as shown on figures 24-25 .
- the rear head area may comprise the face frame 503b and/or sole 504b and/or shell 505b. The rear of face is not suggested in this mode as it is preferable for the face to perform elastically during impact with the ball.
- the said wood heads area comprises the face frame 503b and principally the inner surface of sole 504b, as shown on figures 29-30 .
- screw 516a, 516b comprises a smooth cylindrical section 517a, 517b rotating in radial bore 525a, 525b perforated on the surface of bearing cylinder 524a, 524b.
- the other end comprises a threaded section 518a, 518b screwed into female threaded radial bore 527a, 527b in bearing nut cylinder 526a, 526b, as shown in figures 23 and 28 .
- Bearing cylinder 524a, 524b is a pivot vertex whose axis is perpendicular to the axis of screw 516a, 516b and parallel to the normal defining the plane containing adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b, with screw 516a, 516b prevented from axial movement.
- screw 516a, 516b is attached to bearing cylinder 524a, 524b by means of washer 522a, 522b, nut 523a, 523b and thread 521 a, 521 b at the end of smooth cylindrical section 517a, 517b.
- Other attachment modes could include rivets, pins, snap rings, etc.
- Bearing nut cylinder 526a, 526b is another consecutive pivot vertex whose axis is perpendicular to the axis of screw 516a, 516b and also parallel to the normal defining the plane containing adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b.
- the normal defining the plane containing adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b is parallel to loft axis section 537a, 537b.
- Joined connecting rod 540a, 540b is a fixed-length link matching second connecting rod 515a, 515b.
- the preferred configuration comprises bearing nut cylinder 526a as first vertex pivot 511 a and is connected to the rear head area.
- Bearing cylinder 524a corresponds to third vertex pivot 513a and is connected to joined connecting rod 540a and, by means of the opposite end of said rod, is attached to loft axis section 537a at second joint vertex 512a.
- the rear head area corresponds to the rear of face 502a, as shown on figures 21 and 24-25 .
- bearing cylinder 524b corresponds to first vertex pivot 511 b and is connected to the rear head area.
- Bearing nut cylinder 526b corresponds to third vertex pivot 513b and is connected to joined connecting rod 540b, which corresponds to second connecting rod 515b, and by means of the opposite end of said rod, is attached to loft axis section 537b at the second joint vertex 512b.
- the rear head area corresponds to head sole 504b, as shown on figures 26 and 29-30 .
- screw 516a, 516b comprises a concentric joint dial 519a, 519b players can rotate with their fingers, as shown on figures 23 and 28 .
- dial 519b is at the top of screw 516b and above the first vertex pivot 511 b. Said dial 519b shows through shell 505b, with a perforation in shell 554b as the preferred solution, as shown on figures 26 and 30 .
- adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b rotates in loft axis section 537a, 537b on three concentric pivot brackets whose axis is parallel to the horizontal of the head and stands in the rear head area.
- a pair of third vertex pivot brackets 541 a, 541 b hold third vertex pivot 513a, 513b in any configuration, including bearing cylinder 524a or bearing nut cylinder 526b.
- the first preferred configuration is for adjustable-loft iron heads 302 and the second for adjustable-loft wood heads 202.
- adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b comprises that joined connecting rod 540a, 540b is attached to loft axis section 537a, 537b, going through the latter in a male shape 538a, 538b and at right angles to the axis of said joined connecting rod 540a, 540b through the end matching second joint vertex 512a, 512b.
- Relative rotation is avoided by means of a cotter pin comprising an eccentric pin 539a, 539b parallel to loft axis section 537a, 537b, sharing the radial perimeter of said guide pin 539a, 539b between loft axis section 537a, 537b and joined connecting rod 540a, 540b.
- Said guide pin 539a, 539b is confined to the width of joined connecting rod 540a, 540b and between second vertex pivot brackets 530a, 530b. Axial movement can also be avoided through split pins or interference locks, albeit the final method will be determined by the financially viable manufacturing process.
- Loft axis section 537a, 537b avoids axial head movement by means of snap ring 544a, 544b attached to loft axis section 537a, 537b and supported on the inner face of loft axis pivot bracket 529a, 529b.
- Loft axis section 537a, 537b also abuts second vertex pivot bracket 530a, 530b, closest to toe side 507a, 507b.
- adjustable loft mechanism 500b comprises, for adjustable-loft wood heads 202 on the outer surface of face frame 503b on heel side 508b, a heel concavity 553b partially housing hosel section 533b.
- Heel concavity 553b has the required play to allow movement of hosel section 533b, allowing for loft angles for the range of heads corresponding to the adjustable head, as shown on figures 29-30 .
- Head interchange mechanism 170 comprises pin lock 173, internal interchange cylinder 177 and external interchange cylinder 186, all sliding against each other.
- Internal interchange cylinder 177 houses pin lock 173.
- Internal interchange cylinder 177 is joined to shaft head interchange section 161.
- Internal interchange cylinder 177 and external interchange cylinder 186 can be of various concave and/or convex geometries, such as hexagons.
- Pin lock 173 is permanently installed in hollow cylindrical protrusion 198 of standard hosel 199 and is thus joined to fixed loft head 201, 301, 401.
- said pin lock can be configured to be properly installed in any commercially-available fixed-loft angle head to turn it into an interchangeable head.
- Players can choose an existing commercial fixed-loft head 201, 301, 401 with a standard hosel 199 and use pin lock 173 instead, affixed the same way as a standard commercial shaft, i.e., using adhesives, as shown on figures 14-16 .
- Pin lock 173 may also be permanently installed in female hosel protrusion 534a, 534b of hosel section 533a, 533b and thus joined to adjustable loft heads 202, 302, as shown on figures 25 and 30 .
- pin lock 173 may be replaced by male hosel protrusion 535a, 535b compatible with head interchange mechanism 170, formed during manufacture of hosel loft axis 532a, 532b and equivalent to pin lock male protrusion 174 rising from hosel section 533a, 533b or standard hosel 199, as shown on figures 25 and 30 .
- Pin lock male protrusion 174 rising from hosel section 533a, 533b or standard hosel 199 has torque-resistant geometry.
- the geometry of the inner surface of internal interchange cylinder 178 matches the geometry of the outer surface of pin lock male protrusion 174.
- Internal interchange cylinder 177 houses in surface radial bores 182 at least one lock element 183.
- Pin lock male protrusion 174 includes on its surface at least one pin lock dent 175 housing lock elements 183.
- lock elements 183 slide radially to be confined in pin lock dents 175, said radial bores 182, and the inner surface of external interchange cylinder 187.
- Pin lock male protrusion 174 disposes a smaller end section that is inserted into internal interchange cylinder 177 and expands into hosel section 533a, 533b or standard hosel 199.
- Said pin lock male protrusion 174 is a concave or convex polygon with at least a distinctive geometry enabling unique assembly orientation.
- Pin lock hosel protrusion 176 inserted into hosel section 533a, 533b or standard hosel 199 has a hollow cylindrical geometry of such size as to allow attachment by traditional methods of a standard shaft to hosel section 533a, 533b or standard hosel 199.
- Pin lock 173 provides in pin lock hosel protrusion 176 inserted into hosel section 533a, 533b or standard hosel 199 the ability to use traditional attachment methods analogous or equivalent to those of the standard shaft replaced by pin lock 173, including contact cement, cured epoxy resin, locking sleeves, compression cones, interference locks, expansion joints, axial clamping screws, side clamping screws, bolted or riveted joints and/or any technical equivalent.
- the convex polygon section comprising pin lock male protrusion 174 is defined as hexagonal. At least one hexagonal face has a distinctive geometry enabling a unique assembly position.
- Lock elements 183 are balls. Locking ball(s) 183 are emplaced in one or more conical, equidistant radial bores 182 in an area corresponding to a hexagonal section of the inner surface of internal interchange cylinder 178. Pin lock dents 175 are recessed semispheres of a diameter at their widest point not exceeding that of locking balls 183. Pin lock dents 175 are emplaced in hexagonal pin lock 173 and match the position of said radial bores 182 and thus of locking balls 183 when head interchange mechanism 170 is in coupled position 171; see figure 12 .
- Pin lock dents 175 provide a configuration alternative comprising an area whose geometry is a revolving circular section whose axis of rotation matches the pin lock axis and its widest section is of a size not exceeding that of locking balls 183.
- Internal interchange cylinder 177 houses on outer surface 179 coupling spring 184, which when extended pushes external interchange cylinder 186 into coupled position 171; see figure 12 .
- the depressed coupling spring 184 pushes external interchange cylinder 186 into uncoupled position 172; see figure 13 .
- Player motion on external interchange cylinder 186 and thus on coupling spring 184 may be axial, torsion, or a combination thereof.
- Head interchange mechanism 170 may optionally include decoupling spring 185 at the bottom of internal interchange cylinder 177 which remains depressed against the tip of pin lock male protrusion 174 when in coupled position 171, figure 12 .
- Head interchange mechanism 170 may include guide pin 181 traveling on guide slot 180, limiting travel of external interchange cylinder 186. Said guide pin 181 is joined to and passes through external interchange cylinder 186. Said guide slot 180 of the width of guide pin 181 proceeds in lengthwise recess parallel to the axis and over the outer surface of internal interchange cylinder 177.
- pin locks 173 are incorporated into commercially available fixed-loft angle heads: putter 401 and 1-wood or driver 201.
- adjustable loft heads 202, 302 especially in hosel section 533a, 533b the option is male hosel protrusion 535a, 535b.
- pin lock hosel protrusion 176 to be inserted into standard hosel 199.
- the size of pin lock male protrusion 174 inserted into head interchange mechanism 170 remains unchanged, allowing head interchange on a single or reduced number of adjustable-length shafts 100.
- Telescoping mechanism 130 comprises internal telescoping cylinder 136 and external telescoping cylinder 133 sliding against each other.
- Internal telescoping cylinder 136 slides over adjustable-length section 163 and is joined to handle core 122 and thereby to handle 120.
- One or more lock radial bores 137 on the surface of internal telescoping cylinder 136 house at least one lock element 138.
- Internal telescoping cylinder 136 and external telescoping cylinder 133 can be of various concave and/or convex geometries, such as hexagons.
- Discrete length positions 165 are developed by means of at least one shaft dent 165 on adjustment surface 168. Said dents house lock elements 138. The said adjustment surface has torque-resistant geometry.
- lock element(s) 138 slide radially until confined in shaft dents 165, in the said lock radial bores 137, and in the inner surface of external telescoping cylinder 134.
- Adjustment surface 168 includes a series of surface shaft dents 165 built as a continuous surface relative to surface of shaft 160. In other words, said dents do not cause abrupt discontinuity of surface material as they are not holes in the shaft.
- shaft dents 165 of adjustment surface 168 include that the entire area around shaft dents 165, as well as the area comprising shaft dents 165, do not break fiber continuity. If shaft 160 is built in polycrystalline material such as steel, the entire area around shaft dents 165, as well as the area comprising shaft dents 165, do not break crystalline structure continuity.
- a possible configuration is a shaft 160 of mixed materials.
- the body of shaft 160 in all sections, is built in composite material. However, to achieve increased hardness in the finish of outer adjustment surface 168, this section is built using a thin sheet of material harder than the composite, such as steel, attached to the inner composite material layers. In fact, a preferred configuration has the said harder sheet covering only the outer surface part containing the sequence of shaft dents 165, figure 4 .
- Adjustment surface 168 includes at least one discontinuity as a guide slot for telescoping mechanism 130.
- Such discontinuity has torque-resistant geometry.
- the guide slot may be at least a flat surface 164 or U- or V-shaped relative to the shaft surface.
- the inner surface of internal telescoping cylinder 139 matches said adjustment surface 168.
- adjustment surface 168 has a circular section and another section made up of two opposing, 180° flat surfaces 164, figure 4 .
- the flat surfaces house shaft dents 165. Dents may be recessed semispheres in opposing, 180°-pairs located on the opposing flat surfaces. As such, lock elements 138 are spheres whose radius matches said dents.
- said opposing flat surfaces 164, figure 4 , housing shaft dents 165 may on their outer surface and thus on their surface finish be built in individual sheets of thin polycrystalline material such as steel and affixed to the composite body of shaft 160. Construction of said sheets of crystalline structure material includes shaft dents 165.
- Internal telescoping cylinder 136 houses on its outer surface lock spring 142, which when extended pushes external telescoping cylinder 133 into locked position 131, figure 8 . When depressed, lock spring 142 pushes external telescoping cylinder 133 into unlocked position 132, figure 9 . Player motion on external telescoping cylinder 133 and thus on spring 142 may be axial, torsion, or a combination thereof.
- Internal telescoping cylinder 136 includes position radial bore 144 containing position ball pointer 140 partially entering shaft dents 165. The ball is radially pressed against the shaft by means of ring-type spring 141 covering said ball 140 and the outer surface of said internal telescoping cylinder 136.
- Internal telescoping cylinder 136 includes travel stopper 143 for external telescoping cylinder 133.
- Said stopper is a small tab at the start of the outer surface of internal telescoping cylinder 136 that clicks into unlock recess 135 on the inner surface of external telescoping cylinder 134 and sets the limits of travel.
- Shaft butt section 166 comprises shaft butt end 167, figure 4 , which guides and constrains maximum length of telescoping handle 110.
- US patent 7,207,897 proposes a connection mechanism enabling shaft and head interchange.
- the said patent discloses a device and method of assembly of a device allowing head interchange during club configuration. Use during game play is not intended.
- US patent 7,207,897 specifically comprise a connector to be used in club assembly containing a shaft, a head including an adapter and a connector comprising: A shaft and first interchangeable connector assembly; A head assembly with a second interchangeable connector, sized to safely connect to the head adapter.
- the second connector includes a stop flange, extending radially outward to delimit the head adapter portion; First threads are formed in the first interchangeable connector and second threads in the second interchangeable connector, with first and second threads compatible for connecting the shaft and head assembly.
- US patent 7,207,897 addresses a technical issue limited to a head interchange mechanism operated prior to game play. It is not designed for use prior to each shot during game play.
- Screw-on connectors pose the difficulty of having to concentrically align axes.
- this invention does not use screw-on connectors since play may cause inadvertent release of the head and thus lead to delays.
- US patent 7,207,897 does not interfere with this invention as US patent 7,207,897 is a particular solution concerning only shaft and head interchange. As to said mechanism, US patent 7,207,897 provides a solution using screw-on connectors.
- US patent 6,547,673 describes a method for converting commercially available parts into an interchangeable golf club system.
- the system consists of two elements: the first is intended to be affixed to a standard head adapter to replace a standard shaft, while the second is an insert to be affixed to the bottom of the shaft.
- the head and shaft inserts form a quick connector joining shaft and head.
- Any golf club can be emulated by using different heads representing the full range of woods, irons and putter type heads, each with a preinstalled head insert.
- the invention describes a device to adjust shaft length by means of a pin installed at the top of the shaft which cooperates with a number of slots arranged in a telescoping sleeve that slides over the shaft.
- the means of attachment used to obtain the claimed quick connector encompass a head insert with means for defining an axial slot extending axially along a portion of said head insert; and additional means for defining a circumferential slot extending circumferentially from the said axial slot and through which said head is connected to a shaft by sliding a shaft insert pin along said axial slot and rotating said shaft insert to move said pin along said circumferential slot.
- Said shaft insert further comprises a spring-loaded catch projecting radially outward from said shaft insert and means for defining a hole in said head insert for receiving a spring-action catch to selective non-rotatably lock said shaft insert to said head insert.
- the shaft has no locking mechanism keeping said shaft in the selected length position, and the way in which the pin locks into the slot hardly provides a secure connection capable of withstanding the impacts to which the shaft is subject during game play.
- the quick connector claimed in US patent 6,547,673 comprises a pin sliding through a slot and affixed to avoid rotation by a pin that remains in position by means of a spring or elastic force. As such, during game play there is the risk for turning forces on the connector to exceed the elastic force of the catch, allowing rotation of the mechanism and attendant head release. Due to this, the quick connector claimed in US patent 6,547,673 poses an operating risk that may lead to an accident.
- US patent 6,547,673 disclose characteristics making them evidently different.
- US patent 6,547,673 has weak telescoping and head interchange mechanisms and no loft angle mechanism. This invention is more dependable, as it uses mechanisms more reliably supporting the high mechanical loads the practice of golf imposes on mechanical components.
- US patent 5,083,779 claims a universal golf club comprising a shaft with top and bottom ends; an adjustable handle operationally associated with the top of the shaft; a head rotatably joined to the said element operationally affixed with respect to a first horizontal axis where the head comprises: a main body and a member with the impact face rotatably connected to said main body through a second horizontal axis extending through said main body and which is disposed generally perpendicular to the said first horizontal axis.
- US patent 5,083,779 disposes a fixed head, which therefore does not allow adjusting for stroke type. For example, tee-offs with wood heads, shots onto the green with iron-type heads or hole shots with putter-type heads.
- US patent 5,083,779 implies that players, when adjusting shaft length, must also adjust the lie angle. As such, shaft adjustment involves two operations. This slows down the adjustment process and contravenes the spirit of the game, which values continuity between strokes.
- the loft angle and lie angle mechanism is based on a toothed coupling. This requires decoupling, adjustment and coupling; in other words, three steps to change positions. A slow adjustment process contravenes the principle of continuity between strokes, USGA rules 6 and 7.
- the toothed scheme has discrete positions that do not necessarily set the positions or angles desired by player for shot play.
- this invention includes mechanisms whose basic design concept allows for extremely fast adjustment and/or coupling, very tight tolerances that avoid the "loose” feeling, and imitating a conventional club game for each adjusted position in the compact golf club set.
- US patent 4,253,666 describes a golf club set consisting of a series of three heads to be assembled on a single two-section shaft.
- US patent 4,253,666 includes a detailed description of a bag for transporting the said pieces.
- Claims also describe a shaft comprising two parts that are assembled using a version of the same axial connection mechanism comprising in one part fin springs that are inserted into slots on the other part of the shaft, thereby axially and rotationally attaching the two shaft parts.
- US patent 4,253,666 is only based on head interchange, in principle limited to three heads. It does not offer shaft length variation and adds no additional configuration characteristics such as loft angle variation. Given these restrictions, US patent 4,253,666 restricts its scope to a limited range of strokes. For example, it excludes woods strokes and notes that it is intended for a par-3 course.
- US patent 4,253,666 disclose characteristics that make them different.
- US patent 4,253,666 is limited to including three heads, offers no shaft length adjustment mechanisms, and includes no head loft angle adjustment mechanisms.
- US patent 4,253,666 bases its connection mechanisms on fin springs concentrating stresses on their base, thus limiting the type of construction materials that may be used and device life.
- Mechanisms shown in this invention are rapidly adjusted, easily manipulated and above all sturdy, avoiding concentration of the important torque stresses generated by a stroke.
- US patent 2,091,794 describes a pivoting head joined to an axis including a toothed wheel on its end.
- a guide pin with a fixed toothed ending releases the toothed wheel and thus sets or enables regulating the head angle.
- the guide pin is part of a screw projecting from the inside of the shaft. Turning the screw from the shaft draws the guide pin closer to or away from the toothed wheel.
- a hollow pin lock houses the described mechanisms.
- US patent 2,091,794 literally describes a golf club comprising a head having a hollow stem and a blade and means for pivoting the blade about an axis parallel to the ground. Adjustment comprises a circular toothed member rigid with the blade and extending into the hollow shaft; a guide pin arranged inside the shaft having an angularly disposed toothed face adapted to be brought into engagement with said toothed member; means arranged inside of the stem for urging the guide pin out of engagement with said toothed member; a shaft threadedly engaging the hollow member and adapted to force the guide pin into engagement with the toothed member against the urging action of said means when said shaft is screwed a predetermined distance into the stem, said means urging the pin out of engagement with the toothed member when the shaft is unscrewed a predetermined distance to permit adjustment of the blade.
- the head is described as a blade that can be hit on either face, enabling right- or lefthand use.
- US patent 2,091,794 describes a telescoping adjustment not detailed in claims, except for the contents of the description and what can be surmised from accompanying figures.
- the telescoping adjustment operates by means of a concentric tubular connection between shaft and handle.
- the shaft has recessed radial dents at regular intervals.
- the handle includes a toothed area and on its end a lip shaped to enable insertion into recessed dents.
- the lip is set or released by means of an internally threaded cylindrical piece that is screwed on the toothed handle area.
- the shaft has an axial recessed guide slot on its outer surface, while the handle has a recessed guide slot on its inner surface.
- the mechanism does not allow for head interchange, limiting player shots and potential.
- This invention enables head interchange, which solves basic issues such as balancing moment of inertia between clubs of varying lengths using heads of varying weights, adequate contact with the ground by means of soles designed with loft angle in mind, and more stable strokes through increased moment of inertia in wood and putter heads.
- This invention allows for head interchange, which ensures that the issues described are left to player discretion prior to shot play.
- the head adjustment mechanism described in US patent 2,091,794 is complex and thus subject to failure. Adjustment relies on a toothed area with a very small interference surface. Golf pieces are subject to significant torque, which when transmitted to smaller pieces generates significant stress levels that may lead to fracture and shorten device life.
- US patent 2,091,794 describes shaft length variation by means of a telescoping adjustment based on screwing a part onto the end of the handle.
- US patent 2,091,794 involves adjusting the club prior to shot play through repeated actions implying unscrewing-releasing and screwing-setting into the desired angle and/or length. For 72 strokes, this is an extremely laborious proposition.
- Mechanisms in this invention are designed to minimize the impact of position adjustment. While loft angle does operate by means of a screw, the screw always sets the loft angle, which avoids all releasing-setting issues.
- shaft length is adjusted by sliding an external ring placed along the handle.
- the ring sets the position and shaft length by means of a spring, thus minimizing manipulation.
- This invention discloses elements for the same purposes of US patent 2,091,794 , such as telescoping shaft and head loft angle adjustment, albeit performed differently and with improved reliability.
- This invention also incorporates rapid coupling mechanisms that can be used with any standard commercial head.
- Mechanisms in this invention are rapidly adjusted, easily manipulated, and above all sturdy, avoiding concentration of the important torque stresses generated by a stroke.
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Abstract
Adjustable-length shaft 100 in discrete length positions 165 in telescoping handle 110; adjustable-length shaft 100 including head interchange mechanism 170;
Interchangeable head 200, 300, 400 in adjustable-length shaft 100, with fixed loft head options 201, 301, 401; adjustable loft heads 202, 302 incorporating adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b, and sole 504 whose geometry 545 keeps adjustable loft heads 202, 302 horizontal on the ground;
Interchangeable fixed or adjustable loft head, encompassing:
Wood heads 200: 1-wood 210, fairway woods 220, and hybrids;
Iron heads 300: 1- to 9-irons 310, 320 and wedges 330; and/or putter head 400.
Description
- Field of application is a compact, configurable golf club set. The club set in this invention allows for adjustment of basic club characteristics, enabling players to adjust clubs to their strokes by varying the shaft length, interchanging heads on said shaft and/or modifying the head loft angle. As with any standard club set, the compact set in this invention comprehensively encompasses shafts, woods, irons and putter.
- In traditional golf clubs, heads and shafts are fixed. As such, the wide variety of shots used during a game requires a wide variety of shafts and heads. In golf clubs, a defining head characteristic is the loft angle or angle at which the ball is hit: acute angles for short, precise distances, right angles for longer distances. As in the case of heads, shaft length and flexibility vary with distance of shot: short, stiff shafts for short distances, longer, more flexible shafts for longer distances.
- Woods and hybrids are designed for tee-off (designated area from which players take their first shot) or fairway (zone extending from the tee to the putting green) strokes. Loft angles normally vary from 8° to 28°. Depending on player style, they can assemble a set of some five heads of this type in the bag. Woods are classified as 1-wood or driver with 8° to 13° loft angles, 2-wood with 12° to 15° loft angles, and all the way to 7-wood with 25° to 28° loft angles. Although woods rise all the way to 15-wood, few players use them. Two-woods and up are also known as fairway woods. Hybrids have the appearance of wood with a lower profile or head height, with angles similar to 5- or 7-wood. Some hybrids have more acute angles, such as the equivalent to a 5-iron with about 28°. The length of a 1-wood club, based on an adult of average height, ranges from 43 to 45 inches (109 to 114 cm). Length decreases progressively one half to one inch (1.27 to 2.54 cm) as club numbers rise to 7-wood, with an approximate length of 41 inches (104 cm).
- Irons and wedges (irons of very acute loft angles) are intended for mid-distance and approach shots. In most of these, loft angle varies from 15° to 62° and, depending on player preference, they make up a selection of about nine clubs in the bag. Irons range from 1 to 9.
Number 1 is equivalent to loft angles of 15° to 18°, increasing gradually through number 9, equivalent to loft angles of 45° to 48°. Wedges include pitch wedge (47° to 53°), gab wedge (50° to 54°), sand wedge (54° to 58°) and lob wedge (58° to 62°). The length of a 1-iron club, based on an adult of average height, varies at about 40 inches (102 cm). Length decreases progressively by a half-inch (1.27 cm) as club numbers rise to 9-iron at some 36 inches (91 cm). Wedge shaft lengths are about 35 inches (89 cm). - Putters are used for putting green strokes intended to put the ball in the hole. There is a large variety of heads, with loft angles from 2° to 5°. Players choose the putter best suited to their game and put a single club of this type in the bag. While lengths vary widely, the most conventional and therefore most often used stands at about 35 inches (89 cm).
- Golf rules allow for a maximum of 14 clubs in the bag.
- Other relevant criteria to be considered by players include shaft flexibility and dynamic or swing weight, equivalent to the concept of club moment of inertia. Moment of inertia is determined by shaft length and head weight.
- All of these elements make up the range of features to be considered by players when choosing an ideal set of clubs, a concept that varies from player to player.
- The novelty in this innovation lies in the combination of related functionalities in a golf device featuring a compact, configurable format emulating the performance of a complete standard club set.
- The state of the art on configurable or adjustable clubs includes attempts that do not address issues in a comprehensive manner and whose technical elements do not consider the aspects of the game addressed by conventional or standard club sets.
- The literature on patents and applications totally or partially addressing the scope of this invention is extensive. Our prior art review focuses on patents that have attempted to address issues in a comprehensive manner and on mechanisms most closely resembling this invention.
- The problem underlying the previous patents cited here are that proposed designs have failed to achieve one or more of the following conditions:
- a) They do not allow for shaft length adjustment and therefore do not reduce the number of shafts, or else they do not adjust the shaft length for various shot distances,
US PAT. 4,253,666 . - b) They do not provide a range of heads suitable for most shots. As noted, modern golf requires a series of head types: woods, hybrids, irons, wedges and putters;
US PAT. 4,253,666 ,US PAT. 2,091,794 . - c) They do not provide a head loft angle adjustment mechanism. This forces the use of numerous heads, decreasing the advantages of this type of set over a standard set,
US PAT. 6,547,673 ,US PAT. 4,253,666 . - d) Head loft angle adjustment mechanisms that do not address the sole adjustment required to attain proper horizontal rest of head on the ground for the various adjusted loft angles,
US PAT. 5,083,779 ,US PAT. 2,091,794 . - e) Adjustment mechanisms of limited scope whose advantages over a conventional set are marginal. These include adjustable sets requiring a large number of components or parts, similar to the requirements of a standard club set,
US PAT. 6,547,673 . Or conversely, adjustment mechanisms that reduce the number of components but do not cover the full range of play in a standard club set,US PAT. 5,083,779 ,US PAT. 4,253,666 ,US PAT. 2,091,794 . - f) Coupling or adjustment mechanisms with an important potential for fracture and/or misadjustment and mechanisms whose basic design includes high-stress areas. All mechanisms in woods, hybrids, irons or wedges, whether in the shaft or head, are subject to high dynamic stress as shots are played. Materials fatigue in high-stress areas will most certainly increase with stroke repetition, especially considering that with a compact or reduced set all shots are played with fewer clubs and/or heads. As such, clubs and/or heads and associated mechanisms take a greater number of shots per round than standard set clubs. Inappropriate adjustment increases dynamic load and the potential for connection or adjustment mechanism failure,
US PAT. 6,547,673 ,US PAT. 5,083,779 ,US PAT. 4,253,666 ,US PAT. 2,091,794 . - g) Configuration mechanisms that do not allow for easy or rapid handling prior to a shot. Examples include screw-on shaft-head connectors,
US PAT. 7,207,897 . - Toothed pieces for setting loft angle with discrete positions that do not necessarily set the positions or angles desired by player. In addition, many such schemes need excessive manipulation requiring release, position setting and locking schemes,
US PAT. 5,083,779 ,US PAT. 2,091,794 . - Connection mechanisms whose basic design concept does not allow for tight coupling, a key issue considering that such couplings are to be performed by players on the course prior to shot play. The results are connection mechanisms that are not easily adjusted and give the feeling of playing with loose pieces,
US PAT. 6,547,673 ,US PAT. 5,083,779 ,US PAT. 4,253,666 ,US PAT. 2,091,794 . - The basic design concept of mechanisms in this invention include adjustments and/or couplings that can be quickly performed and provide inter-piece tolerances based on compression of pieces of robust basic trigonometry. All mechanisms seek to balance aesthetics and weight and avoid high-stress areas leaving pieces susceptible to early fracture or deterioration due to materials fatigue.
- Proper adjustment consists of choosing the right head and loft angle and a shaft length consistent with the selected head. Such adjustments should be easily done by any player prior to shot play, within the allotted timeframe. The result should be a solidly assembled club equivalent to a standard club.
- In traditional golf clubs, heads and shafts are fixed. As such, the wide range of shots used during a game requires a wide variety of shafts and heads. This forces players to carry a club set of considerable weight and volume.
- As the game takes places over several hours and distances of more than 10 km for an 18-hole course, carrying a full complement of golf clubs requires significant effort.
- This is also an issue when transporting bags in a vehicle. Club houses help, but this remains a problem when playing at more than onegolf course, especially if more than one family member practices the sport. Another aspect of the problem are players who travel frequently on business. Such players have only the option of lugging their equipment or using rentals. The first option is particularly inconvenient when flying, while the second is often less than a pleasant experience as equipment may not fit the player or be deteriorated by use.
- An additional point in the problem resulting from the use of traditional fixed heads and shafts is that available equipment often comes in standard lengths and loft angles. As the purpose of the game is to complete a round using the fewest strokes possible, equipment is key, especially how well clubs can accommodate player strokes. However, players have different trunks, arm lengths, etc. Especially difficult is the case of growing children. Significant numbers of children practice the sport but must play with clubs that do not match their build or must be replaced or modified as they grow.
- As noted in the Background Art, the state of the art on configurable or adjustable clubs includes attempts that do not address the problem in a comprehensive manner and whose technical elements do not consider the aspects of the game addressed by conventional or standard club sets. Partial solutions addressing various adjustment elements exhibit the technical deficiencies noted in the Background Art, resulting in most players still preferring fixed-configuration standard club sets.
- Proper adjustment consists of choosing the right head and loft angle and a shaft length consistent with the selected head. Such adjustments should be easily done by any player, whether a child, adult or senior, prior to shot play and within the allotted timeframe. Lastly, the required club needs solid adjustment mechanisms not subject to premature fracture or wear. This is especially important when considering that all shots in a game could be played using one or two clubs.
- The novelty in this innovation lies in the combination of related functionalities in a golf device featuring a compact, configurable format emulating the performance of a complete standard club set.
- The first functionality is that, as with a conventional club set, the compact, configurable set in this invention can include wood drivers, fairway woods, hybrids and irons, totally or partially encompassing 1 to 9, wedges and putters.
- The second functionality is that each of these head types can vary their loft angle by means of a mechanism such that the full range of loft angles is adequately covered. This does not prevent extending beyond the conventional head loft angle range or defining heads with more targeted loft angle ranges. The latter requires a larger number of heads in the compact set, but it has the advantage that head behavior more closely resembles conventional head behavior, for example in terms of weight and therefore moment of inertia or swingweight behavior. The adjustable loft works by means of a mechanism attached to the rear area of the head and joined to a modified hosel. It has the shape of a triangle one of whose sides can be manually adjusted by means of a screw.
- The second functionality means that the game can be played using a reduced number of heads that can be interchanged, preferably on one or a reduced number of shafts.
- The above leads to the third functionality in this invention. As the proposition is to play the game using one or a reduced number of shafts, these heads and shafts contain an interchange mechanism that can be easily and comfortably used by players to assemble a club prior to a stroke. A single shaft is to be preferred, but a player wishing to use a shaft for woods and another for irons would find no restriction for including two shafts instead of one in the compact set. In such a case, both shafts would include a head interchange mechanism. The head interchange mechanism consists of a guide pin attached to the hosel which is then coupled to a pair of concentric cylinders on one end of the shaft and which contain balls that lock the mechanism by lodging in the recesses of said guide pin. The mechanism is operated by the player using his fingers to move the outermost cylinder.
- A fourth functionality is that since the proposition is to play the game using one or a reduced number of shafts, their length must be adjustable per the selected head and loft angle. The shaft length adjustment mechanism consists of a shaft with surface recesses housing a sliding handle, which in turn houses a pair of concentric cylinders on one end of said handle and which contain balls that lock the mechanism by lodging in the recesses of said shaft. The mechanism is operated by the player using his fingers to move the outermost cylinder.
- A fifth functionality is that since the head loft angle changes, the head should preferably contain a modified sole so as to ensure correct lie (horizontal head rest on ground) for the range of loft angles defined for this head.
- A sixth functionality is that head interchange mechanism allows for the use of any commercially available head with a standard hosel. This permits using the adjustable compact set with conventional, commercially available heads of the player's choosing; for example putter and/or 1-wood or driver type heads. The hosel is construed to be the socket or neck in the head of a golf club into which a shaft is inserted.
- All issues described in the preceding chapter are addressed and solved in this invention and constitute its advantage. Chief among these issues are:
- Despite significantly reducing volume and weight, the adjustable compact set behaves in a manner that is at least equivalent to a conventional club set.
- At player discretion, the compact set can be used with commercially available fixed heads. This is especially useful for 1-wood heads and putters, as players tend to be loyal to certain models, notably putters.
- Assembling an adjustable club is simple and requires at most three steps: (a) choose a head and shaft and connect them; (b) adjust loft angle, assuming an adjustable loft head, and (c) adjust shaft length. These mechanisms are easily operated by players using their fingers.
- Once adjustments are made, connectors are designed to remain firmly coupled during shot play, giving players the sensation of a solid club and stroke.
- With this new device players can, during game play, adjust the device to their build and style of play, opening up the possibility of more precise shots. This is one of the key objectives of the game of golf: greater precision means fewer strokes are needed to complete a round.
- The device also helps golfers improve their game, as it allows for numerous variations for a given shot. Players can choose the combination best suited in terms of precision and/or distance and the device stays with them as their game evolves.
- The adjustable set presents a clear advantage for children, since as a configurable device, it adapts to their physical development.
- The set significantly reduces standard club set volume and weight by 1/5 and 1/3 respectively, providing the benefits below:
- A much more pleasant game experience, as players can play a round with one or two clubs and avoid carrying a heavy, voluminous bag for several hours over great distances: 10 km on average for 18 holes.
- This may be especially relevant to the older players who represent such a significant portion of the player population.
- The adjustable compact set requires significantly less space and can be easily carried by car or airplane, which is especially convenient if more than one family member practices the sport. Carrying a standard club set to distant destinations is often not feasible due to space or cost considerations. The only options are storing a standard club set at each golf course frequented or resorting to rentals or loans. These examples do not apply to the adjustable compact set, which holds the significant advantage of allowing players to always use the same device at all locations, since as noted, space or cost considerations would no longer be a concern.
- This disclosure is to be read based on the detailed description and drawings briefly described below.
-
Figure 1 shows a compact, configurable golf club set, including adjustable-length shaft 100 and three types of interchangeable heads:putter 400,irons 300 andwoods 200. Each of said heads can be of fixed or adjustable loft -
Figure 2 shows a compact, configurable golf club set with supported head types as an alternative set of parts making up a pair of configurable clubs, where said parts include two adjustable-length shafts 100; a stiffer one for iron and putter heads and a more flexible one for wood heads. Six interchangeable heads, including aninterchangeable putter head 400, three interchangeable iron heads 300 encompassing fromlong irons 310 to short andmid-irons driver 210 andfairway woods 220. Each of said heads can be of fixed or adjustable loft. -
Figure 3 showsshaft 160 described by its three sections: (a)head interchange section 161, which for the effects of this patent is the section supportinghead interchange mechanism 170; (b)conical transition section 162 betweenhead interchange section 161 and adjustable-length section 163; and (c) the said adjustable-length section 163 or else a section of the shaft wheretelescoping mechanism 130 ofshaft 160 is slid and/or attached. -
Figure 4 showsshaft butt section 166 representing a close-up cross-section of the end of adjustable-length section 163, shaft dents 165 for attachingtelescoping mechanism 130, and a detailed view ofshaft butt end 167 lodged at the end ofshaft 160. -
Figure 5 shows telescoping handle 110 withtelescoping mechanism 130 attached by means of a cylinder forminghandle core 122 withgrip 121 over it. -
Figure 6 showstelescoping mechanism 130 attached to handlecore 122 and coupled to adjustable-length section 163. -
Figure 7 shows an exploded view oftelescoping mechanism 130 and parts forming said mechanism. -
Figure 8 shows a cross-section of telescoping mechanism in lockedposition 131 with ball lockelements 138 inserted into shaft dents 165 of adjustable-length section 163. -
Figure 9 shows a cross-section of telescoping mechanism inunlocked position 132 with ball lockelements 138 released by means of unlock recesses 135 on the inner surface ofexternal telescoping cylinder 134. -
Figure 10 shows a general view ofhead interchange mechanism 170 attached toshaft 160.Pin lock 173 is shown inserted into said mechanism. -
Figure 11 shows an exploded view ofhead interchange mechanism 170 and parts forming said mechanism. -
Figure 12 shows a cross-section of head interchange mechanism in coupledposition 171 withpin lock 173 inserted and lockingballs 183 secured in pin lock dents 175. -
Figure 13 shows a cross-section of head interchange mechanism inuncoupled position 172 withpin lock 173 released and lockingballs 183 released by means of decoupling recesses 188 on the inner surface ofexternal interchange cylinder 187. -
Figure 14 shows interchangeable fixed-loft putter head 401 withpin lock 173 aligned for insertion instandard hosel 199. Figure to the right showspin lock 173 inserted and attached tostandard hosel 199 of said putter head. -
Figure 15 shows interchangeable fixedloft iron head 301 withpin lock 173 aligned for insertion instandard hosel 199. Figure to the right showspin lock 173 inserted and attached tostandard hosel 199 of said iron head. -
Figure 16 shows interchangeable fixed-loft wood head 201 withpin lock 173 aligned for insertion instandard hosel 199. Figure to the right showspin lock 173 inserted and attached tostandard hosel 199 of said wood head. -
Figure 17 shows a bottom view of sole 504 for adjustable-loft iron head 302, with three lines along sole 552 defining the bottom volume section of said head and which as a result generate the surface of modifiedsole geometry 545. -
Figure 18 shows an A-A section of less acuteloft angle end loft iron head 302, with less acuteloft angle end 548, for the range of loft angles defined for said head, and attaching the head to the horizontal 551, and which therefore defines in respect ofground 549 the line along sole 552 defining the scan section of modifiedsole geometry 545, closer to the lower vertex ofclub head face 506. -
Figure 19 shows an A-A section ofintermediate loft angle 550, 547. For an adjustable-loft iron head 302, with intermediate loft angle 547, for the range of loft angles defined for said head, and attaching the head to the horizontal 551, and which therefore defines in respect ofground 549 the line along sole 552 defining the intermediate scan section of modifiedsole geometry 545. -
Figure 20 shows an A-A section of more acuteloft angle end loft iron head 302, with more acuteloft angle end 548, for the range of loft angles defined for said head, and attaching the head to the horizontal 551, and which therefore defines in respect ofground 549 the line along sole 552 defining the scan section of modifiedsole geometry 545, more distant relative to the lower vertex ofclub head face 506. -
Figure 21 shows the adjustable loft mechanism, iron head version,side view 500a. The side view highlights a triangle withvertices rods 514a, 515a. By adjusting the size of one of said rods, first connecting rod 514a allows modification of said triangle and as such modification ofloft angle 509a. -
Figure 22 shows an adjustable-loft iron head,front view 302. Showing on heel side 508a ishosel section 533a inmale hosel protrusion 535a version, compatible withhead interchange mechanism 170. -
Figure 23 shows the adjustable loft mechanism, iron head version, exploded view ofscrew 516a and its supports or bearings, including bearingnut cylinder 526a and bearingcylinder 524a. The latter matchesthird vertex pivot 513a and is supported by a pair of thirdvertex pivot brackets 541 a extending from joined connectingrod 540a. -
Figure 24 shows the adjustable loft mechanism, iron head version,rear view 500a. Notehosel loft axis 532a supported by threepivot brackets hosel loft axis 532a attached to joined connectingrod 540a and how this connects to screw 516a by means of bearingcylinder 524a.Screw 516a is screwed into bearingnut cylinder 526a supported by a pair of firstvertex pivot brackets 531 a extending from the top of rear offace 502a. -
Figure 25 shows the adjustable loft mechanism, iron head version, general explodedview 500a. Showing are two alternatives forhosel loft axis 532a with variants inhosel section 533a, the first asfemale hosel protrusion 534a and the second asmale hosel protrusion 535a compatible withhead interchange mechanism 170.Hosel loft axis 532a shows a section displacing its axis by means of offsetsection 536a.Hosel loft axis 532a, in particularloft axis section 537a, is supported by threepivot brackets loft axis section 537a is attached by means ofmale shape 538a to joined connectingrod 540a. They lock into position by means of paralleleccentric pin 539a. -
Figure 26 shows the adjustable loft mechanism, wood head version,side view 500b. The side view shows a triangle withvertices rods rod 514b allows modification of said triangle and as such modification ofloft angle 509b. -
Figure 27 shows an adjustable-loft wood head,front view 202. Showing onheel side 508b ishosel section 533b inmale hosel protrusion 535b version compatible withhead interchange mechanism 170. -
Figure 28 shows the adjustable loft mechanism, wood head version, exploded view ofscrew 516b and its supports or bearings, including bearingcylinder 524b and bearing nut cylinder 526b. The latter matchesthird vertex pivot 513b and is supported by a pair of thirdvertex pivot brackets 541 b extending from joined connectingrod 540b. -
Figure 29 shows the adjustable loft mechanism, wood head version,rear view 500b. Notehosel loft axis 532b supported by threepivot brackets hosel loft axis 532b attached to joined connectingrod 540b, and how the latter connects to screw 516b by means of bearingcylinder 524b.Screw 516b is screwed in bearing nut cylinder 526b supported by a pair of thirdvertex pivot brackets 541 b. -
Figure 30 shows the adjustable loft mechanism, wood head version, general explodedview 500b. Showing are two alternatives forhosel loft axis 532b, with variants inhosel section 533b, the first asfemale hosel protrusion 534b and the second asmale hosel protrusion 535b, compatible withhead interchange mechanism 170.Hosel loft axis 532b, in particularloft axis section 537b, is supported by threepivot brackets loft axis section 537b is attached by means of male shape 538b to joined connectingrod 540b. They lock into position by means of paralleleccentric pin 539b. - The compact golf club set configurable at player discretion prior to shot play shown in
figures 1-2 . In preferred mode, it comprises at least adjustable-length shaft 100 in multiple discrete length positions 165, enabled by telescopinghandle 110 as shown onfigures 3-5 . Said adjustable-length shaft 100 includeshead interchange mechanism 170 enabling connection of at leastinterchangeable head - a) interchangeable fixed-loft heads 201, 301, 401, shown in detail in
figures 14-16 ; - b) adjustable loft
interchangeable heads adjustable loft mechanism geometry 545 keeps said adjustable loft heads 202, 302 horizontal on the ground for each adjustedloft angle figures 21-25 for irons and 26-30 for woods. - In this invention, interchangeable head means both fixed and adjustable loft types and/or combinations thereof:
- a) wood heads 200: 1-wood or
driver 210, fairway 2-woods hereinafter 220, and hybrids; - b) iron heads 300: 1- to 9-
irons - c) putter heads 400.
- The compact golf club set configurable during game play allows for numerous combinations to be defined by manufacturer and player preference. Examples 1-2 show two possible configurations in detail.
- Example 1 in
figure 1 shows a compact set comprising a shaft and three heads: - Adjustable-
length shaft 100; - Interchangeable
fixed loft 401putter head 400; - Interchangeable
adjustable loft 302iron head 300 that can be built for 5- to 9-irons to sand wedge loft angles; and -
Interchangeable wood head 200 that may be of fixed-loft angle 201 or an alternative toadjustable loft 202 that can be built for loft angles ranging from 1- to 7-wood heads. - This example illustrates a highly compact four-piece set of interest to players wishing to significantly reduce weight and volume over a standard 14-club set and bag.
Players wishing to closely match a complete 14-club set need only increase the number of elements in their compact, configurable golf club set. As would a pro, players need to choose the elements to be used in the course. Example 2 covers this case. - Example 2 in
figure 2 illustrates an eight-piece set consisting of two shafts and six heads: a putter head, two adjustable-loft iron heads, an adjustable-loft wedge head, a fixed-loft wood driver and an adjustable-loft fairway wood, as follows:
Two adjustable-length shafts 100, including a more flexible shaft allowing interchangeable wood heads 200 to cover longer distances, and a stiffer shaft for interchangeable iron heads 300 and interchangeable putter heads 400;
A fixed-loft putter head 401;
An adjustable-loft iron head 302 that could be developed to cover average weight and loft angles for 4- to 6-iron head set 310;
An adjustable-loft iron head 302 that could be developed to cover average weight and loft angles for 7- to 9-iron head set 320;
An adjustable-loft iron head 302 that could be developed to cover average weight and loft angles for pitch wedge to lob wedge set 330;
A fixed-loft wood head 201 equivalent to 1-wood ordriver head 210; and
An adjustable-loft wood head 202 that could be developed to cover average weight and loft angles for 3- to 7-fairway woods head set 220. - Weight is part and parcel of head design and construction criteria. Heavier heads generate greater moment of inertia or swingweight. For the sake of simplicity during game play, one way to vary the moment of inertia in this invention is to replace different weight heads on the shaft. Another way is to modify shaft length. This invention suggests that adjustable loft heads be designed with a weight near the average for the range of heads whose loft is to be emulated.
- Below is a detailed description of the parts and pieces comprising the compact, configurable golf club set and on which examples 1-2 are based, as follows:
- (a) Description of adjustable-length shaft;
- (b) Description of interchangeable heads with adjustable loft mechanism, with details on the corresponding sole;
- (c) Description of head interchange mechanism, including use of interchangeable fixed-loft heads with the compact set;
- (d) Details on the telescoping mechanism; and
- (e) Description of the use of the compact, configurable golf club set.
- Adjustable-
length shaft 100 is described below. Length of said shaft can be adjusted in multiplediscrete positions 165 by means of telescopinghandle 110. Said shaft includeshead interchange mechanism 170. As shown onfigures 3-5 , adjustable-length shaft 100 consists of the following elements: - a)
Shaft 160, in turn comprising the following sections:- a.1)
Head interchange section 161, comprising during-playhead interchange mechanism 170 located at the head connector end; - a.2) Adjustable-
length section 163 defined by a constant cross-section which definesadjustment surface 168 and whose end comprisesshaft butt section 166 used to attachshaft butt end 167; - a.3)
Transition section 162 connectinghead interchange section 161 to adjustable-length section 163.
- a.1)
- b) Telescoping
handle 110, in turn comprising:- b.1)
Handle core 122, comprising a hollow, circular section tube such that its internal diameter matches the external diameter ofshaft butt end 167 attached to the shaft butt section ofshaft 166; - b.2) Attached to one end of
handle core 122 is an interference locking/unlockingtelescoping mechanism 130, where the locking function consists of at least onelock element 138 tightly entering one of multiple discrete length positions 165 on the surface of adjustable-length section 163; - b.3) Also attached to handle
core 122 is a rubber, leather orcork grip 121 by which player holds telescopinghandle 110 and thus adjustable-length shaft 100.
- b.1)
- Described below are
interchangeable heads adjustable loft mechanism loft iron head 302 version is described infigures 21-25 . The preferred adjustable-loft wood head 202 version is described infigures 26-30 , and the preferred version of the sole of an adjustable loft head is described infigures 17-20 . - The compact, configurable golf club set in
figures 1-2 also calls forinterchangeable heads adjustable loft mechanism figures 21-25 and26-30 , which comprise: - a) A
club head face adjustable loft mechanism - b)
Hosel loft axis - b.1)
Hosel section length shaft 100. This is eitherfemale hosel protrusion male hosel protrusion head interchange mechanism 170; - b.2)
Loft axis section adjustable loft mechanism - b.3) Offset
section 536a connectingloft axis section hosel section heel side 508a, 508b, a term defined as the horizontal end ofclub head face shaft 160.
- b.1)
- c) Modified
sole geometry 545, with a scan section defined by at least threesections 550 where each contains a line along sole 552 cutting across the head volume. Each line is defined when the head rests horizontally 551 on theground 549 in front of the ball, in position to contactclub head face 506, for at least three adjusted loft angles, one intermediate loft angle 547 and two loft angle ends 548 corresponding to loft angles for the range of heads corresponding to the adjustable head. Modifiedsole geometry 545 is described infigures 17-20 . - For adjustable
loft mechanism head 500 with a standard sole, the steeper theloft angle 547, 548, the greater the deviation relative to the horizontal 551 defined byground 549. The modifiedsole geometry 545,figure 17 , allows horizontally supporting the head on the ground as head loft angle is increased withadjustable loft mechanism 500. Drawing successive soles,figures 18-20 , for successive loft angles 547, 548, wheresoles 504 keep theclub head face 506 parallel to the horizontal 551 relative toground 549, yields modifiedsole geometry 545. While saidadjustable loft mechanism 500 allows for continuous loft angles, to compensate for or adjust the geometry of sole 504 this invention proposes at least three angles: loft angle ends 548 or the adjustable loft mechanism design limits, and an intermediate loft angle 547. Other configurations can be interpolated and applied on the sole face by means of a scan section, thus providing a continuous surface approaching the full range of angles defined in saidadjustable loft mechanism 500. In this invention, this sole configuration is referred to as modifiedsole geometry 545. - The above
adjustable loft mechanism figures 21 and26 comprises three vertices forming a triangular configuration joined to an adjustable loft mechanism head. Changing vertex angles and/or triangle side length modifieshead loft angle loft axis section loft angle adjustment first vertex pivot loft axis section third vertex pivot rod 514a, 514b extending from thefirst vertex pivot rod joint vertex rod loft axis section club head face loft axis section loft angle
In a preferred mode,adjustable loft mechanism figures 23 and28 , by means ofscrew screw bearing screw nut 526a, 526b, matching the pivot vertex opposite.
Adjustable loft mechanism face 502a and/or the face frame and/or sole 504a. In the preferred mode, the said iron head area comprises the rear offace 502a and part of sole 504a, as shown onfigures 24-25 . In another mode for adjustable-loft wood head 202, the rear head area may comprise theface frame 503b and/or sole 504b and/orshell 505b. The rear of face is not suggested in this mode as it is preferable for the face to perform elastically during impact with the ball. In the preferred mode, the said wood heads area comprises theface frame 503b and principally the inner surface of sole 504b, as shown onfigures 29-30 . - One end of
screw cylindrical section radial bore cylinder section radial bore nut cylinder 526a, 526b, as shown infigures 23 and28 . -
Bearing cylinder screw adjustable loft mechanism screw - In a preferred mode,
screw cylinder washer 522a, 522b,nut thread 521 a, 521 b at the end of smoothcylindrical section -
Bearing nut cylinder 526a, 526b is another consecutive pivot vertex whose axis is perpendicular to the axis ofscrew adjustable loft mechanism adjustable loft mechanism loft axis section - Joined connecting
rod rod - For an adjustable-
loft iron head 302, the preferred configuration comprises bearingnut cylinder 526a asfirst vertex pivot 511 a and is connected to the rear head area.Bearing cylinder 524a corresponds tothird vertex pivot 513a and is connected to joined connectingrod 540a and, by means of the opposite end of said rod, is attached toloft axis section 537a at secondjoint vertex 512a. In this case, the rear head area corresponds to the rear offace 502a, as shown onfigures 21 and 24-25 . - For an adjustable-
loft wood head 202, the preferred configuration is that bearingcylinder 524b corresponds tofirst vertex pivot 511 b and is connected to the rear head area. Bearing nut cylinder 526b corresponds tothird vertex pivot 513b and is connected to joined connectingrod 540b, which corresponds to second connectingrod 515b, and by means of the opposite end of said rod, is attached toloft axis section 537b at the secondjoint vertex 512b. In this case, the rear head area corresponds to head sole 504b, as shown onfigures 26 and 29-30 . - For both configurations,
screw joint dial figures 23 and28 . - For adjustable-loft wood heads 202,
dial 519b is at the top ofscrew 516b and above thefirst vertex pivot 511 b. Saiddial 519b shows throughshell 505b, with a perforation inshell 554b as the preferred solution, as shown onfigures 26 and 30 . - For any head type in the above preferred modes, as shown on
figures 24, 25 and29-30 ,adjustable loft mechanism loft axis section - a) The first pivot bracket, i.e., loft
axis pivot bracket heel side 508a, 508b. - b) A second pair of pivot brackets, i.e., second
vertex pivot brackets toe side joint vertex rod loft axis section Toe side club head face - c) The pair of second
vertex pivot brackets axis pivot bracket loft axis section - In joined connecting
rod vertex pivot brackets third vertex pivot cylinder 524a or bearing nut cylinder 526b. The first preferred configuration is for adjustable-loft iron heads 302 and the second for adjustable-loft wood heads 202. - Still in the preferred mode as shown on
figures 25 and30 ,adjustable loft mechanism rod loft axis section male shape 538a, 538b and at right angles to the axis of said joined connectingrod joint vertex eccentric pin loft axis section guide pin loft axis section rod 540a, 540b.Said guide pin rod vertex pivot brackets -
Loft axis section snap ring loft axis section axis pivot bracket Loft axis section vertex pivot bracket toe side - In the preferred mode,
adjustable loft mechanism 500b comprises, for adjustable-loft wood heads 202 on the outer surface offace frame 503b onheel side 508b, aheel concavity 553b partially housinghosel section 533b.Heel concavity 553b has the required play to allow movement ofhosel section 533b, allowing for loft angles for the range of heads corresponding to the adjustable head, as shown onfigures 29-30 . -
Head interchange mechanism 170,figures 10-11 , comprisespin lock 173,internal interchange cylinder 177 andexternal interchange cylinder 186, all sliding against each other.Internal interchange cylinder 177houses pin lock 173.Internal interchange cylinder 177 is joined to shafthead interchange section 161.Internal interchange cylinder 177 andexternal interchange cylinder 186 can be of various concave and/or convex geometries, such as hexagons. -
Pin lock 173 is permanently installed in hollowcylindrical protrusion 198 ofstandard hosel 199 and is thus joined to fixedloft head loft head standard hosel 199 and usepin lock 173 instead, affixed the same way as a standard commercial shaft, i.e., using adhesives, as shown onfigures 14-16 . -
Pin lock 173 may also be permanently installed infemale hosel protrusion hosel section figures 25 and30 . Optionally,pin lock 173 may be replaced bymale hosel protrusion head interchange mechanism 170, formed during manufacture ofhosel loft axis male protrusion 174 rising fromhosel section standard hosel 199, as shown onfigures 25 and30 . - Pin lock
male protrusion 174 rising fromhosel section standard hosel 199 has torque-resistant geometry. The geometry of the inner surface ofinternal interchange cylinder 178 matches the geometry of the outer surface of pin lockmale protrusion 174. -
Internal interchange cylinder 177 houses in surface radial bores 182 at least onelock element 183. - Pin lock
male protrusion 174 includes on its surface at least onepin lock dent 175housing lock elements 183. - In coupled
position 171,figure 12 , lockelements 183 slide radially to be confined in pin lock dents 175, said radial bores 182, and the inner surface ofexternal interchange cylinder 187. - In
uncoupled position 172,figure 13 , player slidesexternal interchange cylinder 186 through decoupling recesses 188 on the inner surface ofexternal interchange cylinder 187, allowinglock elements 183 to radially slide, releasing them from pin lock dents 175. - Pin lock
male protrusion 174 disposes a smaller end section that is inserted intointernal interchange cylinder 177 and expands intohosel section standard hosel 199. Said pin lockmale protrusion 174 is a concave or convex polygon with at least a distinctive geometry enabling unique assembly orientation. Pinlock hosel protrusion 176 inserted intohosel section standard hosel 199 has a hollow cylindrical geometry of such size as to allow attachment by traditional methods of a standard shaft tohosel section standard hosel 199. -
Pin lock 173 provides in pinlock hosel protrusion 176 inserted intohosel section standard hosel 199 the ability to use traditional attachment methods analogous or equivalent to those of the standard shaft replaced bypin lock 173, including contact cement, cured epoxy resin, locking sleeves, compression cones, interference locks, expansion joints, axial clamping screws, side clamping screws, bolted or riveted joints and/or any technical equivalent. - In the preferred configuration, the convex polygon section comprising pin lock
male protrusion 174 is defined as hexagonal. At least one hexagonal face has a distinctive geometry enabling a unique assembly position.Lock elements 183 are balls. Locking ball(s) 183 are emplaced in one or more conical, equidistant radial bores 182 in an area corresponding to a hexagonal section of the inner surface ofinternal interchange cylinder 178. Pin lock dents 175 are recessed semispheres of a diameter at their widest point not exceeding that of lockingballs 183. Pin lock dents 175 are emplaced inhexagonal pin lock 173 and match the position of said radial bores 182 and thus of lockingballs 183 whenhead interchange mechanism 170 is in coupledposition 171; seefigure 12 . - Pin lock dents 175 provide a configuration alternative comprising an area whose geometry is a revolving circular section whose axis of rotation matches the pin lock axis and its widest section is of a size not exceeding that of locking
balls 183.
Internal interchange cylinder 177 houses onouter surface 179coupling spring 184, which when extended pushesexternal interchange cylinder 186 into coupledposition 171; seefigure 12 . Thedepressed coupling spring 184 pushesexternal interchange cylinder 186 into uncoupledposition 172; seefigure 13 . Player motion onexternal interchange cylinder 186 and thus oncoupling spring 184 may be axial, torsion, or a combination thereof. -
Head interchange mechanism 170 may optionally includedecoupling spring 185 at the bottom ofinternal interchange cylinder 177 which remains depressed against the tip of pin lockmale protrusion 174 when in coupledposition 171,figure 12 .
Head interchange mechanism 170 may includeguide pin 181 traveling onguide slot 180, limiting travel ofexternal interchange cylinder 186. Saidguide pin 181 is joined to and passes throughexternal interchange cylinder 186. Saidguide slot 180 of the width ofguide pin 181 proceeds in lengthwise recess parallel to the axis and over the outer surface ofinternal interchange cylinder 177. - For examples 1-2 above, pin locks 173 are incorporated into commercially available fixed-loft angle heads:
putter 401 and 1-wood ordriver 201. As the internal size ofstandard hosel 199 may vary depending on commercial head type, appropriate pin lock sizes will have to be provided. For adjustable loft heads 202, 302, especially inhosel section male hosel protrusion male protrusion 174 andmale hosel protrusion head interchange mechanism 170, always have the same size and thus allow interchanging fixed and adjustable loft heads on adjustable-length shaft 100 withhead interchange mechanism 170. - There is no limitation to defining the external diameter inserted into
standard hosel 199,figures 14-16 . At present, internal hosel diameters for fixed-loft iron heads 301 and different internal diameters for fixed-loft wood heads 201 are common. Both diameters can be provided for, which generates at least two types ofpin lock 173. For fixed-loft putter heads 401 there is a wider range ofstandard hosels 199, in terms of size and configurations, which can be either male or female. In addition, some configurations require apin lock 173 with offset. As such, the preferred pin lock configuration accommodating commercial fixed-loft putter heads 401 must be specifically designed for said head. However, such specific design only comprises pinlock hosel protrusion 176 to be inserted intostandard hosel 199. In the preferred configuration, the size of pin lockmale protrusion 174 inserted intohead interchange mechanism 170 remains unchanged, allowing head interchange on a single or reduced number of adjustable-length shafts 100. -
Telescoping mechanism 130,figures 6-7 , comprisesinternal telescoping cylinder 136 andexternal telescoping cylinder 133 sliding against each other.Internal telescoping cylinder 136 slides over adjustable-length section 163 and is joined to handlecore 122 and thereby to handle 120. One or more lock radial bores 137 on the surface ofinternal telescoping cylinder 136 house at least onelock element 138.Internal telescoping cylinder 136 andexternal telescoping cylinder 133 can be of various concave and/or convex geometries, such as hexagons. - Discrete length positions 165 are developed by means of at least one
shaft dent 165 onadjustment surface 168. Said dentshouse lock elements 138. The said adjustment surface has torque-resistant geometry. - In locked
position 131,figure 8 , lock element(s) 138 slide radially until confined in shaft dents 165, in the said lock radial bores 137, and in the inner surface ofexternal telescoping cylinder 134. - In
unlocked position 132,figure 9 , player slidesexternal telescoping cylinder 133 through unlock recesses 135 on the inner surface ofexternal telescoping cylinder 134, allowing lock element(s) 138 to radially slide, releasing them from shaft dents 165. -
Adjustment surface 168 includes a series of surface shaft dents 165 built as a continuous surface relative to surface ofshaft 160. In other words, said dents do not cause abrupt discontinuity of surface material as they are not holes in the shaft. - If
shaft 160 is built in composite material, shaft dents 165 ofadjustment surface 168 include that the entire area around shaft dents 165, as well as the area comprising shaft dents 165, do not break fiber continuity. Ifshaft 160 is built in polycrystalline material such as steel, the entire area around shaft dents 165, as well as the area comprising shaft dents 165, do not break crystalline structure continuity. - A possible configuration is a
shaft 160 of mixed materials. The body ofshaft 160, in all sections, is built in composite material. However, to achieve increased hardness in the finish ofouter adjustment surface 168, this section is built using a thin sheet of material harder than the composite, such as steel, attached to the inner composite material layers. In fact, a preferred configuration has the said harder sheet covering only the outer surface part containing the sequence of shaft dents 165,figure 4 . -
Adjustment surface 168 includes at least one discontinuity as a guide slot fortelescoping mechanism 130. Such discontinuity has torque-resistant geometry. In particular, the guide slot may be at least aflat surface 164 or U- or V-shaped relative to the shaft surface. The inner surface ofinternal telescoping cylinder 139 matches saidadjustment surface 168. - In the preferred configuration,
adjustment surface 168 has a circular section and another section made up of two opposing, 180°flat surfaces 164,figure 4 . The flat surfaces house shaft dents 165. Dents may be recessed semispheres in opposing, 180°-pairs located on the opposing flat surfaces. As such, lockelements 138 are spheres whose radius matches said dents. - In a preferred configuration, said opposing
flat surfaces 164,figure 4 , housing shaft dents 165 may on their outer surface and thus on their surface finish be built in individual sheets of thin polycrystalline material such as steel and affixed to the composite body ofshaft 160. Construction of said sheets of crystalline structure material includes shaft dents 165. -
Internal telescoping cylinder 136 houses on its outersurface lock spring 142, which when extended pushesexternal telescoping cylinder 133 into lockedposition 131,figure 8 . When depressed,lock spring 142 pushesexternal telescoping cylinder 133 intounlocked position 132,figure 9 . Player motion onexternal telescoping cylinder 133 and thus onspring 142 may be axial, torsion, or a combination thereof. -
Internal telescoping cylinder 136 includes position radial bore 144 containingposition ball pointer 140 partially entering shaft dents 165. The ball is radially pressed against the shaft by means of ring-type spring 141 covering saidball 140 and the outer surface of saidinternal telescoping cylinder 136. -
Internal telescoping cylinder 136 includestravel stopper 143 forexternal telescoping cylinder 133. Said stopper is a small tab at the start of the outer surface ofinternal telescoping cylinder 136 that clicks intounlock recess 135 on the inner surface ofexternal telescoping cylinder 134 and sets the limits of travel. -
Shaft butt section 166 comprisesshaft butt end 167,figure 4 , which guides and constrains maximum length oftelescoping handle 110. - Prior to shot play, player selects an
interchangeable head length shaft 100; the latter when the compact club set includes more than one shaft, as described in example 2,figure 2 . Steps to assemble the desired club are: - First: Player connects selected
interchangeable head length shaft 100 by means ofhead interchange mechanism 170. This may require disconnecting a head previously coupled to selected shaft. Said mechanism allows for replacing said heads by slidingexternal interchange cylinder 186 from coupledposition 171,figure 12 , touncoupled position 172,figure 13 . - Second: For an adjustable-
loft head loft angle dial adjustable loft mechanism - Third: Player extends or retracts adjustable-
length shaft 100 by means oftelescoping mechanism 130 intelescoping handle 110. Using his fingers, player movesexternal telescoping cylinder 133 from lockedposition 131,figure 8 , tounlocked position 132,figure 9 . Player slides said handle over adjustable-length section 163 to the desired position and locks the handle to the shaft. - Fourth: Player checks club configuration and horizontal rest of attached head by placing the sole on the ground in striking position in front of the ball.
- The order of steps two and three above is interchangeable.
- The literature on patents and applications totally or partially addressing the scope of this invention is extensive. Our prior art review focuses on patents that have attempted to address issues in a comprehensive manner and on mechanisms most closely resembling this invention.
-
-
US 7,207,897 Golf Club Head and Shaft Connector and Method -
US 6,547,673 Interchangeable Golf Club Head and Adjustable Handle System -
US 5,083,779 Universal Golf Club Construction -
US 4,253,666 Personal Golf Set For Par-3 Course -
US 2,091,794 Golf Club - Below is a detailed review of said patents containing a brief description, a summary, a comparison to this invention, and a review of interference and inventive level of this invention relative to said patents.
- The invention disclosed in
US patent 7,207,897 proposes a connection mechanism enabling shaft and head interchange. The said patent discloses a device and method of assembly of a device allowing head interchange during club configuration. Use during game play is not intended. - Claims in
US patent 7,207,897 specifically comprise a connector to be used in club assembly containing a shaft, a head including an adapter and a connector comprising: A shaft and first interchangeable connector assembly;
A head assembly with a second interchangeable connector, sized to safely connect to the head adapter. The second connector includes a stop flange, extending radially outward to delimit the head adapter portion;
First threads are formed in the first interchangeable connector and second threads in the second interchangeable connector, with first and second threads compatible for connecting the shaft and head assembly. -
US patent 7,207,897 addresses a technical issue limited to a head interchange mechanism operated prior to game play. It is not designed for use prior to each shot during game play. - If
US patent 7,207,897 seeks to couple the said device during game play, it will result in an excessive delay incompatible with USGA rules 6 and 7. - In contrast, in the matter strictly related to connecting shaft and head, this invention does not use screw-on connectors since play may cause inadvertent release of the head and thus lead to delays.
-
US patent 7,207,897 does not interfere with this invention asUS patent 7,207,897 is a particular solution concerning only shaft and head interchange. As to said mechanism,US patent 7,207,897 provides a solution using screw-on connectors. - From elements disclosed in
US patent 7,207,897 , a knowledgeable individual cannot deduce the components addressing connection of shaft to head that are disclosed in this invention. A condition of this invention is to allow for interchangeability during game play and not just during club configuration. -
US patent 6,547,673 describes a method for converting commercially available parts into an interchangeable golf club system. The system consists of two elements: the first is intended to be affixed to a standard head adapter to replace a standard shaft, while the second is an insert to be affixed to the bottom of the shaft. - The head and shaft inserts form a quick connector joining shaft and head. Any golf club can be emulated by using different heads representing the full range of woods, irons and putter type heads, each with a preinstalled head insert.
- In addition, the invention describes a device to adjust shaft length by means of a pin installed at the top of the shaft which cooperates with a number of slots arranged in a telescoping sleeve that slides over the shaft.
- While the invention in
US patent 6,547,673 is an approach to the technical issue in this invention, the elements detailed in this invention provide a solution that significantly reduces the number of heads by allowing for variable loft angles, a characteristic not included inUS patent 6,547,673 . - In
US patent 6,547,673 , the means of attachment used to obtain the claimed quick connector encompass a head insert with means for defining an axial slot extending axially along a portion of said head insert; and additional means for defining a circumferential slot extending circumferentially from the said axial slot and through which said head is connected to a shaft by sliding a shaft insert pin along said axial slot and rotating said shaft insert to move said pin along said circumferential slot. Said shaft insert further comprises a spring-loaded catch projecting radially outward from said shaft insert and means for defining a hole in said head insert for receiving a spring-action catch to selective non-rotatably lock said shaft insert to said head insert. -
US patent 6,547,673 is only based on interchange of standard heads and shaft length variation, and adds no additional configuration characteristics such as loft angle variation. In order to emulate a conventional 14-club set, players must carry 14 heads in their reduced set. As such, only the number of shafts is reduced. Given partial reduction, desired advantages are also partial and thus the comparative advantages of this proposal are limited. -
US patent 6,547,673 claims a telescoping adjustment not discussed in detail except for the contents of the description and what can be surmised from accompanying figures. The described telescoping mechanisms are not recommended for manufacture. Slots in a telescoping tubular unit built from composite material lead to discontinuity in the mechanical properties of the shaft. Disrupting the fibers carrying mechanical loads and the high stress generated by slot-type geometries increase loads to unacceptable levels for such materials. This is also true of conventional materials such as steel. - The shaft has no locking mechanism keeping said shaft in the selected length position, and the way in which the pin locks into the slot hardly provides a secure connection capable of withstanding the impacts to which the shaft is subject during game play.
- The quick connector claimed in
US patent 6,547,673 comprises a pin sliding through a slot and affixed to avoid rotation by a pin that remains in position by means of a spring or elastic force. As such, during game play there is the risk for turning forces on the connector to exceed the elastic force of the catch, allowing rotation of the mechanism and attendant head release. Due to this, the quick connector claimed inUS patent 6,547,673 poses an operating risk that may lead to an accident. - This invention and
US patent 6,547,673 disclose characteristics making them evidently different.US patent 6,547,673 has weak telescoping and head interchange mechanisms and no loft angle mechanism. This invention is more dependable, as it uses mechanisms more reliably supporting the high mechanical loads the practice of golf imposes on mechanical components. - This invention discloses additional elements with respect to
US patent 6,547,673 , such as loft angle adjustment, which cannot be inferred from the cited prior art as regards implementation and reliability. - The invention disclosed in
US patent 5,083,779 describes adjusting shaft length, loft angle, lie angle, weight, and impact face to produce various golf club configurations. -
US patent 5,083,779 claims a universal golf club comprising a shaft with top and bottom ends; an adjustable handle operationally associated with the top of the shaft; a head rotatably joined to the said element operationally affixed with respect to a first horizontal axis where the head comprises: a main body and a member with the impact face rotatably connected to said main body through a second horizontal axis extending through said main body and which is disposed generally perpendicular to the said first horizontal axis. -
US patent 5,083,779 disposes a fixed head, which therefore does not allow adjusting for stroke type. For example, tee-offs with wood heads, shots onto the green with iron-type heads or hole shots with putter-type heads. - By disposing a head permanently joined to the shaft during game play,
US patent 5,083,779 implies that players, when adjusting shaft length, must also adjust the lie angle. As such, shaft adjustment involves two operations. This slows down the adjustment process and contravenes the spirit of the game, which values continuity between strokes. - The loft angle and lie angle mechanism is based on a toothed coupling. This requires decoupling, adjustment and coupling; in other words, three steps to change positions. A slow adjustment process contravenes the principle of continuity between strokes, USGA rules 6 and 7.
- The toothed scheme has discrete positions that do not necessarily set the positions or angles desired by player for shot play.
- Shaft adjustment by means of a pin results in a mechanism requiring tolerances incompatible with proper handling and with the feeling of a solid union, giving players the feel of a "loose" device.
- Finally, weight adjustment by means of inserts in the back of the head is a slow, cumbersome operation that is impracticable between strokes.
- In conclusion,
US patent 5,083,779 does not interfere with the innovation in this application as it does not consider all adjustment types described in this invention. Moreover, this invention addresses the technical issue by means of mechanisms that cannot be directly derived from the elements disclosed inUS patent 5,083,779 . - With respect to
US patent 5,083,779 , the basic design of this invention allows for unfettered head interchange, allowing for long shots by means of interchangeable woods, approach shots by means of interchangeable irons, or hole shots by means of an interchangeable putter. - In addition, this invention includes mechanisms whose basic design concept allows for extremely fast adjustment and/or coupling, very tight tolerances that avoid the "loose" feeling, and imitating a conventional club game for each adjusted position in the compact golf club set.
- The invention in
US patent 4,253,666 describes a golf club set consisting of a series of three heads to be assembled on a single two-section shaft.US patent 4,253,666 includes a detailed description of a bag for transporting the said pieces. - Although this patent is oriented to describing the means of carrying a club set, in the document the means of attachment to obtain the quick connector encompass heads that substitute the hosel for pin locks with a pair of snap fin springs securing an axial connection and preventing rotation. Said pin locks are inserted into the shaft, which includes slots for insertion of connecting fin springs and attachment of head to shaft.
US patent 4,253,666 claims three head types: iron type for mid-distances, iron type for short distances, and a putter. - Claims also describe a shaft comprising two parts that are assembled using a version of the same axial connection mechanism comprising in one part fin springs that are inserted into slots on the other part of the shaft, thereby axially and rotationally attaching the two shaft parts.
-
US patent 4,253,666 is only based on head interchange, in principle limited to three heads. It does not offer shaft length variation and adds no additional configuration characteristics such as loft angle variation. Given these restrictions,US patent 4,253,666 restricts its scope to a limited range of strokes. For example, it excludes woods strokes and notes that it is intended for a par-3 course. - Mechanisms consisting of a pair of axial attachment fin springs are not recommended for composite materials, as slots in the tubular unit cause discontinuity in the mechanical properties of the shaft. Disrupting the fibers carrying mechanical loads plus the high stress generated by slot-type geometries increase loads to unacceptable levels for such materials. This is also true of conventional materials such as steel, as fin springs must absorb important torque stresses generated in the fin base during club impact against the ball, shortening device life.
- As
US patent 4,253,666 reduces the functionality of a standard club set, its advantages are limited. - This invention and
US patent 4,253,666 disclose characteristics that make them different.US patent 4,253,666 is limited to including three heads, offers no shaft length adjustment mechanisms, and includes no head loft angle adjustment mechanisms.US patent 4,253,666 bases its connection mechanisms on fin springs concentrating stresses on their base, thus limiting the type of construction materials that may be used and device life. - This invention discloses additional elements over
US patent 4,253,666 , such as telescoping shaft adjustment and head loft angle adjustment which cannot be deduced from the cited prior art as regards implementation and reliability. - Mechanisms shown in this invention are rapidly adjusted, easily manipulated and above all sturdy, avoiding concentration of the important torque stresses generated by a stroke.
-
US patent 2,091,794 describes a pivoting head joined to an axis including a toothed wheel on its end. A guide pin with a fixed toothed ending releases the toothed wheel and thus sets or enables regulating the head angle. The guide pin is part of a screw projecting from the inside of the shaft. Turning the screw from the shaft draws the guide pin closer to or away from the toothed wheel. A hollow pin lock houses the described mechanisms. -
US patent 2,091,794 describes a telescoping adjustment operating by means of a concentric tubular connection between shaft and handle. - In its principal claim,
US patent 2,091,794 literally describes a golf club comprising a head having a hollow stem and a blade and means for pivoting the blade about an axis parallel to the ground. Adjustment comprises a circular toothed member rigid with the blade and extending into the hollow shaft; a guide pin arranged inside the shaft having an angularly disposed toothed face adapted to be brought into engagement with said toothed member; means arranged inside of the stem for urging the guide pin out of engagement with said toothed member; a shaft threadedly engaging the hollow member and adapted to force the guide pin into engagement with the toothed member against the urging action of said means when said shaft is screwed a predetermined distance into the stem, said means urging the pin out of engagement with the toothed member when the shaft is unscrewed a predetermined distance to permit adjustment of the blade. - The head is described as a blade that can be hit on either face, enabling right- or lefthand use.
-
US patent 2,091,794 describes a telescoping adjustment not detailed in claims, except for the contents of the description and what can be surmised from accompanying figures. The telescoping adjustment operates by means of a concentric tubular connection between shaft and handle. The shaft has recessed radial dents at regular intervals. The handle includes a toothed area and on its end a lip shaped to enable insertion into recessed dents. The lip is set or released by means of an internally threaded cylindrical piece that is screwed on the toothed handle area. To avoid handle rotation, the shaft has an axial recessed guide slot on its outer surface, while the handle has a recessed guide slot on its inner surface. - Claims in
US patent 2,091,794 describe loft angle variation in an iron-type head, which intends to emulate the characteristics of all heads in a golf club set, including woods, irons, wedges, and putter. - The mechanism does not allow for head interchange, limiting player shots and potential. This invention enables head interchange, which solves basic issues such as balancing moment of inertia between clubs of varying lengths using heads of varying weights, adequate contact with the ground by means of soles designed with loft angle in mind, and more stable strokes through increased moment of inertia in wood and putter heads. This invention allows for head interchange, which ensures that the issues described are left to player discretion prior to shot play.
- The head adjustment mechanism described in
US patent 2,091,794 is complex and thus subject to failure. Adjustment relies on a toothed area with a very small interference surface. Golf pieces are subject to significant torque, which when transmitted to smaller pieces generates significant stress levels that may lead to fracture and shorten device life. -
US patent 2,091,794 describes shaft length variation by means of a telescoping adjustment based on screwing a part onto the end of the handle. - A solution of the same screw-set/unscrew-release type is also proposed for head angle adjustment.
-
US patent 2,091,794 involves adjusting the club prior to shot play through repeated actions implying unscrewing-releasing and screwing-setting into the desired angle and/or length. For 72 strokes, this is an extremely laborious proposition. - Mechanisms in this invention are designed to minimize the impact of position adjustment. While loft angle does operate by means of a screw, the screw always sets the loft angle, which avoids all releasing-setting issues.
- In this invention, shaft length is adjusted by sliding an external ring placed along the handle. The ring sets the position and shaft length by means of a spring, thus minimizing manipulation.
- This invention and
US patent 2,091,794 disclose completely different loft angle and shaft length adjustment mechanisms. This invention allows for head interchange, which is not considered inUS patent 2,091,794 . - This invention discloses elements for the same purposes of
US patent 2,091,794 , such as telescoping shaft and head loft angle adjustment, albeit performed differently and with improved reliability. This invention also incorporates rapid coupling mechanisms that can be used with any standard commercial head. - Mechanisms in this invention are rapidly adjusted, easily manipulated, and above all sturdy, avoiding concentration of the important torque stresses generated by a stroke.
Claims (35)
- A compact golf club set configurable at player discretion prior to shot play, NOTED for comprising:At least adjustable-length shaft 100 in multiple discrete length positions 165 enabled by telescoping handle 110; said adjustable-length shaft 100 includes head interchange mechanism 170;At least interchangeable head 200, 300, 400 in adjustable-length shaft 100, with options for fixed loft heads 201, 301, 401 and adjustable loft heads 202, 302 incorporating adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b and sole 504 whose geometry 545 keeps said adjustable loft heads 202, 302 horizontal on the ground for each adjusted loft angle 509a, 509b;Interchangeable head means both fixed and adjustable loft types and/or combinations thereof:a) Wood heads 200: 1-wood or driver 210, fairway woods 220, and hybrids;b) Iron heads 300: 1- to 9-irons 310, 320 and wedges 330: pitch, gab, sand and lob wedges; and/orc) Putter head 400.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 1, NOTED for at least adjustable-length shaft 100 configurable in multiple discrete length positions 165 enabled by telescoping handle 110 and head interchange mechanism 170 comprising:a) Shaft 160, which in turn comprises:a.1) Head interchange section 161 comprising head interchange mechanism 170 located at the head connector end;a.2) Adjustable-length section 163 defined by a constant cross-section which defines adjustment surface 168 and whose end comprises shaft butt section 166 used to attach shaft butt end 167; anda.3) Transition section 162 connecting head interchange section 161 to adjustable-length section 163;b) Telescoping handle 110, in turn comprising:b.1) Handle core 122, comprising a hollow, circular section tube such that its internal diameter matches the external diameter of shaft butt end 167 attached to the shaft butt section of shaft 166;b.2) Attached to one end of handle core 122 is locking/unlocking telescoping mechanism 130, where the locking function consists of at least one lock element 138 tightly entering one of multiple discrete length positions 165 on the surface of adjustable-length section 163;b.3) Also attached to handle core 122 is a rubber, leather or cork grip 121 by which player holds telescoping handle 110 and thus adjustable-length shaft 100.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 1, NOTED for at least an interchangeable head 200, 300, 400 with adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b comprising:a') Club head face 506, 506a, 506b whose back supports adjustable loft mechanism 500, 500a, 500b during game play.b') Hosel loft axis 532a, 532b, comprising:b.1) Hosel section 533a, 533b connecting to adjustable-length shaft 100. This is either a female hosel protrusion 534a, 534b or male hosel protrusion 535a, 535b. The latter is compatible with head interchange mechanism 170;b.2) Loft axis section 537a, 537b holding adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b;b.3) Offset section 536a connecting loft axis section 537a to hosel section 533a on heel side 508a;c) Modified sole geometry 545, with a scan section defined by at least three sections 550 where each contains a line along sole 552 cutting across the head volume. Each line is defined when the head rests horizontally 551 on the ground 549 in front of the ball, in position to contact club head face 506, for at least three adjusted loft angles, one intermediate loft angle 547 and two loft angle ends 548, corresponding to loft angles for the range of heads corresponding to the adjustable head.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 3, NOTED for an adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b comprising:First vertex pivot 511 a, 511b joined to the head body;Second joint vertex 512a, 512b matching and joined to loft axis section 537a,537b;Third vertex pivot 513a, 513b corresponds to the intersection of first connecting rod 514a, 514b extending from the first vertex pivot 511 a, 511b and second connecting rod 515a, 515b extending from second joint vertex 512a, 512b;Second connecting rod 515a, 515b joined to loft axis section 537a, 537b;andThe length of at least one of said rods may be modified by changing the relative angle between club head face 506a, 506b and loft axis section 537a, 537b, thereby changing loft angle 509a, 509b.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 4, NOTED for an adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b comprising that:Length of one of said rods can be modified by means of screw 516a, 516b whose orientation matches the axis of one of said rods;One end of screw 516a, 516b rotates on its axis without axial movement, held by a bearing 524a, 524b matching one of the pivot vertices; andThe opposite side of screw 516a, 516b rotates on its axis and moves axially in bearing nut 526a, 526b, matching the pivot vertex opposite.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 5, NOTED for an adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b comprising:A rear head area comprising the rear of face 502a and/or face frame 503b and/or sole 504a, 504b and/or shell 505b, the latter to accommodate adjustable-loft wood heads 202;One end of screw 516a, 516b comprises a smooth cylindrical section 517a, 517b rotating in radial bore 525a, 525b perforated on the surface of bearing cylinder 524a, 524b;The other end comprises a threaded section 518a, 518b screwed into female threaded radial bore 527a, 527b in bearing nut cylinder 526a, 526b;Bearing cylinder 524a, 524b is a pivot vertex whose axis is perpendicular to the axis of screw 516a, 516b and parallel to the normal defining the plane containing adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b, with screw 516a, 516b prevented from axial movement;Bearing nut cylinder 526a, 526b is another consecutive pivot vertex whose axis is perpendicular to the axis of screw 516a, 516b and also parallel to the normal defining the plane containing adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b;The normal defining the plane containing adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b is parallel to loft axis section 537a, 537b; andJoined connecting rod 540a, 540b is a fixed-length link matching second connecting rod 515a, 515b.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 6, NOTED for adjustable an loft mechanism 500a, 500b comprising that:In a first configuration, bearing nut cylinder 526a corresponds to first vertex pivot 511a and is connected to the rear head area. Bearing cylinder 524a corresponds to third vertex pivot 513a and is connected to joined connecting rod 540a and, by means of the opposite end of said rod, is attached to loft axis section 537a at second joint vertex 512a;In a second configuration, bearing cylinder 524b corresponds to first vertex pivot 511 b and is connected to the rear head area. Bearing nut cylinder 526b corresponds to third vertex pivot 513b and is connected to joined connecting rod 540b, which corresponds to second connecting rod 515b, and by means of the opposite end of said rod, is attached to loft axis section 537b at the second joint vertex 512b;Screw 516a, 516b comprises a concentric joint dial 519a, 519b players can rotate with their fingers; andFor adjustable-loft wood heads 202, dial 519b is at the top of screw 516b and above the first vertex pivot 511 b. Said dial 519b shows through shell 505b, with a perforation in shell 554b as the preferred solution.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 6, NOTED for an adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b comprising that:a) Loft axis section 537a, 537b rotates on three concentric pivot brackets whose axis is parallel to the horizontal of the head and stands in the rear head area:a.1) The first pivot bracket, i.e., loft axis pivot bracket 529a, 529b, is near heel side 508a, 508b;a.2) A second pair of pivot brackets, i.e., second vertex pivot brackets 530a, 530b, near toe side 507a, 507b, hold the second joint vertex 512a, 512b and second connecting rod 515a, 515b joined to loft axis section 537a, 537b, guiding their rotation;a.3) The pair of second vertex pivot brackets 530a, 530b and loft axis pivot bracket 529a, 529b, and therefore loft axis section 537a, 537b, stand preferably at the bottom of the head, near sole 504a, 504b;b) An additional pair of first vertex pivot brackets 531 a, 531 b hold first vertex pivot 511 a, 511b and are joined to the rear head area; andc) In joined connecting rod 540a, 540b, a pair of third vertex pivot brackets 541a, 541b hold third vertex pivot 513a, 513b in any configuration, including bearing cylinder 524a or bearing nut cylinder 526b.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 8, NOTED for adjustable an loft mechanism 500a, 500b comprising that:Joined connecting rod 540a, 540b is attached to loft axis section 537a, 537b by means of a male/female assembly;Loft axis section 537a, 537b inserts into second joint vertex 512a, 512b an end of its axis in a male shape 538a, 538b, at right angles to joined connecting rod 540a, 540b. Relative rotation is avoided by means of a pin comprising an eccentric pin 539a, 539b parallel to loft axis section 537a, 537b, sharing the radial perimeter of said guide pin 539a, 539b between loft axis section 537a, 537b and joined connecting rod 540a, 540b. Said guide pin 539a, 539b is confined to the width of joined connecting rod 540a, 540b between second vertex pivot brackets 530a, 530b; andLoft axis section 537a, 537b avoids axial head movement by means of snap ring 544a, 544b attached to loft axis section 537a, 537b and supported on the inner face of loft axis pivot bracket 529a, 529b. Loft axis section 537a, 537b also abuts second vertex pivot bracket 530a, 530b, closest to toe side 507a, 507b.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 3, NOTED for an adjustable loft mechanism 500b comprising, for adjustable-loft wood heads 202 on the outer surface of face frame 503b on heel side 508b, a heel concavity 553b partially housing hosel section 533b, allowing for loft angles of the range of heads corresponding to the adjustable head.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claims2 and 3, NOTED for a head interchangeable mechanism 170 comprising:Pin lock 173, internal interchange cylinder 177 and external interchange cylinder 186, all sliding against each other. Internal interchange cylinder 177 houses pin lock 173. Internal interchange cylinder 177 is joined to shaft head interchange section 161. Internal interchange cylinder 177 and external interchange cylinder 186 can be of various concave and/or convex geometries, such as hexagons;Pin lock 173 is permanently installed in hollow cylindrical protrusion 198 of standard hosel 199 and is thus joined to fixed loft head 201, 301, 401. In other words, said pin lock can be configured to be properly installed in any commercially-available fixed-loft angle head to turn it into an interchangeable head. Pin lock 173 may also be permanently installed in female hosel protrusion 534a, 534b of hosel section 533a, 533b and thus joined to adjustable loft heads 202, 302;Pin lock male protrusion 174 rising from hosel section 533a, 533b or standard hosel 199 has torque-resistant geometry. The geometry of the inner surface of internal interchange cylinder 178 matches the geometry of the outer surface of pin lock male protrusion 174;Internal interchange cylinder 177 houses in surface radial bores 182 at least one lock element 183;Pin lock male protrusion 174 includes on its surface at least one pin lock dent 175 housing lock elements 183;In coupled position 171, lock elements 183 slide radially to be confined in pin lock dents 175, said radial bores 182, and the inner surface of external interchange cylinder 187; andIn uncoupled position 172, player slides external interchange cylinder 186 through decoupling recesses 188 on the inner surface of external interchange cylinder 187, allowing lock elements 183 to radially slide, releasing them from pin lock dents 175.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 11, NOTED for a pin lock male protrusion 174 disposing a smaller end section that is inserted into internal interchange cylinder 177 and expands into hosel section 533a, 533b or standard hosel 199. Said pin lock male protrusion 174 is a concave or convex polygon with at least a distinctive geometry enabling unique assembly orientation. Pin lock hosel protrusion 176 inserted into hosel section 533a, 533b or standard hosel 199 has a hollow cylindrical geometry of such size as to allow attachment by traditional methods of a standard shaft to hosel section 533a, 533b or standard hosel 199.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 12, NOTED for a pin lock 173 disposing in pin lock hosel protrusion 176 inserted into hosel section 533a, 533b or standard hosel 199 the ability to use traditional attachment methods analogous or equivalent to those of the standard shaft replaced by pin lock 173, including contact cement, cured epoxy resin, locking sleeves, compression cones, interference adjustment, expansion joints, axial clamping screws, side clamping screws, bolted or riveted joints and/or any technical equivalent.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 11, NOTED for a head interchange mechanism 170 including hexagonal pin lock 173 comprising:Hexagonal pin lock male protrusion 174;At least one hexagonal face has a distinctive geometry enabling a unique assembly position;Lock elements 183 are balls;Locking ball(s) 183 are emplaced in one or more conical, equidistant radial bores 182 in an area corresponding to a hexagonal section of the inner surface of internal interchange cylinder 178;Pin lock dents 175 are recessed semispheres of a diameter at their widest point not exceeding that of locking balls 183;Pin lock dents 175 are emplaced in hexagonal pin lock 173 and match the position of said radial bores 182 and thus of locking balls 183 when head interchange mechanism 170 is in the coupled position.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 14, NOTED for pin lock dents 175 providing a configuration alternative comprising an area whose geometry is a revolving circular section whose axis of rotation matches the pin lock axis and its widest section is of a size not exceeding that of locking balls 183.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 11, NOTED for an internal interchange cylinder 177 housing on outer surface 179 a coupling spring 184, which when extended pushes external interchange cylinder 186 into coupled position 171. The depressed coupling spring 184 pushes external interchange cylinder 186 into uncoupled position 172. Player motion on external interchange cylinder 186 and thus on coupling spring 184 may be axial, torsion, or a combination thereof.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 11, NOTED for head interchange mechanism 170 alternatively including decoupling spring 185 at the bottom of internal interchange cylinder 177, which remains depressed against the tip of pin lock male protrusion 174 when in coupled position 171.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 11, NOTED for pin lock 173 being alternatively replaced by male hosel protrusion 535a, 535b compatible with head interchange mechanism 170, formed during manufacture of hosel loft axis 532a, 532b and equivalent to pin lock male protrusion 174 of previously described pin lock 173 rising from hosel section 533a, 533b or standard hosel 199.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 11, NOTED for head interchange mechanism 170 alternatively including guide pin 181 traveling on guide slot 180, limiting travel of external interchange cylinder 186. Said guide pin 181 is joined to and passes through external interchange cylinder 186. Said guide slot 180 of the width of guide pin 181 proceeds in lengthwise recess parallel to the axis and over the outer surface of internal interchange cylinder 177.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 2, NOTED for a telescoping mechanism 130 comprising:Internal telescoping cylinder 136 and external telescoping cylinder 133 sliding against each other. Internal telescoping cylinder 136 slides over adjustable-length section 163 and is joined to handle core 122 and thereby to handle 120. One or more lock radial bores 137 on the surface of internal telescoping cylinder 136 house at least one lock element 138. Internal telescoping cylinder 136 and external telescoping cylinder 133 can be of various concave and/or convex geometries, such as hexagons;Discrete length positions 165 are developed by means of at least one shaft dent 165 on adjustment surface 168. Said dents house lock elements 138. The said adjustment surface has torque-resistant geometry;In locked position 131, lock element(s) 138 slide radially until confined in shaft dents 165, in the said lock radial bores 137, and in the inner surface of external telescoping cylinder 134;In unlocked position 132, player slides external telescoping cylinder 133 through unlock recesses 135 on the inner surface of external telescoping cylinder 134, allowing lock element(s) 138 to radially slide, releasing them from shaft dents 165.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 20, NOTED for an adjustment surface 168 including a series of surface shaft dents 165 built as a continuous surface relative to the surface of shaft 160. In other words, said dents do not cause abrupt discontinuity of surface material as they are not holes in the shaft.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 19, NOTED, if shaft 160 is built in composite material, for shaft dents 165 of the surface of adjustable-length section 163 including that the entire area around shaft dents 165, as well as the area comprising shaft dents 165, do not break fiber continuity. If shaft 160 is built in polycrystalline material such as steel, the entire area around shaft dents 165, as well as the area comprising shaft dents 165, do not break crystalline structure continuity.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 22, NOTED for a shaft 160 of mixed materials, where the body of shaft 160, in all sections, is built in composite material. However, the outer surface of adjustment surface 168 is built using a thin sheet of material harder than the composite, such as steel, attached to the inner composite material layers. A variant has the said harder sheet covering only the outer surface part containing the sequence of shaft dents 165.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 20, NOTED for an adjustment surface 168 including at least one discontinuity as a guide slot for telescoping mechanism 130. Such discontinuity has torque-resistant geometry. In particular, the guide slot may be at least a flat surface 164 or U- or V-shaped relative to the shaft surface. The inner surface of internal telescoping cylinder 139 matches said adjustment surface 168.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claims 21 and 24, NOTED for an adjustment surface 168 having a circular section and another section made up of two opposing, 180° flat surfaces 164. The flat surfaces house shaft dents 165. Dents may be recessed semispheres in opposing, 180°-pairs located on the opposing flat surfaces. As such, lock elements 138 are spheres whose radius matches said dents.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claims 23 and 25, NOTED for the fact that opposing flat surfaces 164 housing shaft dents 165 may on their outer surface and thus on their surface finish be built in individual sheets of thin polycrystalline material such as steel and affixed to the composite body of shaft 160. Construction of said sheets of crystalline structure material includes shaft dents 165.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 20, NOTED for an internal telescoping cylinder 136 housing on its outer surface lock spring 142, which when extended pushes external telescoping cylinder 133 into locked position 131. When depressed, lock spring 142 pushes external telescoping cylinder 133 into unlocked position 132. Player motion on external telescoping cylinder 133 and thus on spring 142 may be axial, torsion, or a combination thereof.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 20, NOTED for an internal telescoping cylinder 136 including position radial bore 144 containing position ball pointer 140 partially entering shaft dents 165. The ball is radially pressed against the shaft by means of ring-type spring 141 covering said ball 140 and the outer surface of said internal telescoping cylinder 136.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 20, NOTED for an internal telescoping cylinder 136 including travel stopper 143 for external telescoping cylinder 133. Said stopper is a small tab at the start of the outer surface of internal telescoping cylinder 136 that clicks into unlock recess 135 on the inner surface of external telescoping cylinder 134 and sets the limits of travel.
- A compact, configurable golf club set per claim 2, NOTED for a shaft butt section 166 comprising shaft butt end 167, which guides and constrains maximum length of telescoping handle 110.
- Method for assembly of a club in the compact, configurable golf club set of claim 1, based on interchangeable head 200, 300, 400 with adjustable loft option 202, 302, NOTED for comprising the following steps to be performed by player prior to shot play:Connect said fixed loft head 202, 302 to adjustable-length shaft 100 by means of head interchange mechanism 170;Adjust loft angle 509a, 509b of said adjustable loft head 202, 302;Extend or retract adjustable-length shaft 100 by means of telescoping mechanism 130 in telescoping handle 110; andVerify club configuration and horizontal rest of attached head by placing sole 504 on the ground in striking position in front of the ball.
- Method for assembly of a club in the compact, configurable golf club set of claim 1, based on interchangeable head 200, 300, 400 with fixed loft option 201, 301, 401, NOTED for comprising the following steps to be performed by player prior to shot play:Connect said fixed loft head 201, 301, 401 to adjustable-length shaft 100 by means of head interchange mechanism 170;Extend or retract adjustable-length shaft 100 by means of telescoping mechanism 130 in telescoping handle 110; andVerify club configuration and horizontal rest of attached head in striking position in front of the ball.
- Method for assembly of the compact, configurable golf club set in claim 29, NOTED for the fact that the step of coupling interchangeable head 200, 300, 400 by means of head interchange mechanism 170 requires players to shift external interchange cylinder 186 from coupled position 171 to uncoupled position 172.
- Method for assembly of the compact, configurable golf club set in claims 7 and 31, NOTED for the fact that the step of adjusting loft angle 509a, 509b requires players to turn dial 519a, 519b in adjustable loft mechanism 500a, 500b.
- Method for assembly of the compact, configurable golf club set in claims 20, 31 and 32, NOTED for the fact that the step of extending or retracting adjustable-length shaft 100 requires players to shift external telescoping cylinder 133 from locked position 131 to unlocked position 132, sliding telescoping handle 110 over adjustable-length section 163 to the desired position and releasing said external telescoping cylinder 133 so it returns to locked position 131.
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PCT/CL2010/000060 WO2012088618A1 (en) | 2010-12-30 | 2010-12-30 | Compact set of configurable golf clubs |
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EP2666523A4 EP2666523A4 (en) | 2014-11-26 |
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EP10861492.6A Withdrawn EP2666523A4 (en) | 2010-12-30 | 2010-12-30 | Compact set of configurable golf clubs |
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US (1) | US20130281224A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2666523A4 (en) |
JP (1) | JP5727039B2 (en) |
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Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US20190111326A1 (en) * | 2010-12-07 | 2019-04-18 | Taylor Made Golf Company, Inc. | Golf club set providing improved distance gapping adjustability |
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Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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GB2496306B (en) * | 2011-10-31 | 2018-08-08 | Karsten Mfg Corp | Adjustable length golf clubs and methods of manufacturing adjustable length golf clubs |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
JP5727039B2 (en) | 2015-06-03 |
CN103338822A (en) | 2013-10-02 |
KR20130108641A (en) | 2013-10-04 |
WO2012088618A1 (en) | 2012-07-05 |
US20130281224A1 (en) | 2013-10-24 |
MX2013007545A (en) | 2013-12-02 |
ZA201304547B (en) | 2014-02-26 |
CA2823231A1 (en) | 2012-07-05 |
EP2666523A4 (en) | 2014-11-26 |
SG191422A1 (en) | 2013-08-30 |
JP2014501144A (en) | 2014-01-20 |
AU2010366377A1 (en) | 2013-07-18 |
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