GB2624575A - Multi-component golf club head - Google Patents

Multi-component golf club head Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2624575A
GB2624575A GB2402667.6A GB202402667A GB2624575A GB 2624575 A GB2624575 A GB 2624575A GB 202402667 A GB202402667 A GB 202402667A GB 2624575 A GB2624575 A GB 2624575A
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GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
component
inch
club head
sole
toe
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.)
Granted
Application number
GB2402667.6A
Other versions
GB2624575B (en
GB202402667D0 (en
Inventor
R Jertson Martin
M Henrikson Erik
J Pendred Samuel
S Pope Jeremy
C Spackman Clayson
S Bacon Cory
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Karsten Manufacturing Corp
Original Assignee
Karsten Manufacturing Corp
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US16/789,261 external-priority patent/US10953294B2/en
Priority claimed from PCT/US2020/043483 external-priority patent/WO2021016555A1/en
Priority claimed from PCT/US2020/047702 external-priority patent/WO2021041353A1/en
Application filed by Karsten Manufacturing Corp filed Critical Karsten Manufacturing Corp
Publication of GB202402667D0 publication Critical patent/GB202402667D0/en
Publication of GB2624575A publication Critical patent/GB2624575A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of GB2624575B publication Critical patent/GB2624575B/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
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Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B53/00Golf clubs
    • A63B53/04Heads
    • A63B53/0408Heads characterised by specific dimensions, e.g. thickness
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B53/00Golf clubs
    • A63B53/04Heads
    • A63B53/0466Heads wood-type
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B53/00Golf clubs
    • A63B53/04Heads
    • A63B53/0433Heads with special sole configurations
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B53/00Golf clubs
    • A63B53/04Heads
    • A63B53/0437Heads with special crown configurations
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B53/00Golf clubs
    • A63B53/04Heads
    • A63B53/045Strengthening ribs
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B53/00Golf clubs
    • A63B53/04Heads
    • A63B53/045Strengthening ribs
    • A63B53/0454Strengthening ribs on the rear surface of the impact face plate
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B53/00Golf clubs
    • A63B53/04Heads
    • A63B2053/0491Heads with added weights, e.g. changeable, replaceable
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2209/00Characteristics of used materials
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B60/00Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
    • A63B60/006Surfaces specially adapted for reducing air resistance
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B60/00Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
    • A63B60/02Ballast means for adjusting the centre of mass
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B60/00Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
    • A63B60/52Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like with slits

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Wood Science & Technology (AREA)
  • Golf Clubs (AREA)

Abstract

Embodiments of a golf club head comprising a first component and a second component that are coupled together to enclose a hollow interior are disclosed herein (fig.1F) . The first component comprises at least a striking face, a striking face return, and a rear extension 2500. The first component also comprises a weight channel 2540 at a rear end and one or more braces (3560, fig.37) that attach to the striking face return and the rear extension. The weight channel contains three threaded bores at toe 2544, centre 2546 and heel 2548 positions which accommodate a movable weight 2350. The second component comprises a crown portion, a sole toe portion, and a sole heel portion and may be made of two separate parts. The density of the second component is less than the density of the first component. In some embodiments, the first component mass is 85% to 96% of a mass of the golf club head.

Description

MULTI-COMPONENT GoLF CLUB HEAD
FIELD
The disclosure relates generally a gulf equipnaent, and more particularly, to mu] compone golf Jul) heads.;iriyi methods to manufacture multi-ct-trial /anent golf club heads.
BACKGROUND
[0002] in general, the dub head mass is the total amount of structural mass and the amount of discretionary nass. In an ideal dub design, hay] rig aconstant total swing weight, structural mass would he(without sacrificing resiliency) to provide a designer with sufficient discretionary mass or optional placement to customize and 171113X11111iZe (11U11 performance. Structu MASS generally refers to the naass of the materials required to provide the club head with the structural resilience to withstand repeated impacts. Structural mass is highly design-dependent, and provides a designer with a relatively low anaeatil F oF Cerarcal over specific mass distribution. Conversely, discretionary mass is any additional mass (beyond the minimum structural requirements) that may be added to the club head design solely to custoriaize the performance and/or forgiveness of the club. There is a need in the art for alternative designs to all metal golf club heads to provide a mean.s for mairtmizing discretionary weight to maximize club head IIII1riarrir of inertia (MOT) and Ictwer/back center or gravity and provide options for golf hall Bight triaral)11113.6011,
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0003] FRT. I A illustrates -a back vimv of an assembled golf chili head.
[0004] FIG. 113 illustrates a bottom view ofan assembled golf club head.
100051 kill. IC illustrates a front perspective view of an assembled golf club head.
[0006] kiG. ID illustrates a cross sectional vie or a golf club head, taken along the line D-ID in FIG. 113; HG. M including a loft plane, a ground plane, and a Z axis.
[0007] IC. I E illustrates a front view of an assembled goit club head with X, 1, and laosel axes.
100081 HG. I illustrates an assembled and exploded view of a go]f club head.
[0009] FIG golf club head second component rear exterior view.
100101 FIG. 3A din strates a golf club head sec IT011era iron [0011] FIG. 313 illustrates a club head second component: fron erlor view, according to an embodiment.
[0012] FIG,1 i ustratcs -goli club beau first component front ia.p view 10013] FIG, illustrates a itoif club head first component top view.
100141 PIG. 6 il ustrates a golf club head first component new sho through.he face center parallel to the ground plane.
-0 a nu p.ane [0015] FIG. 7A ilk ate cross seclnon of the first component of.EI ure 6 2101 re line 610 of FIG. 6.
[0016] FIG. 713 illustrates cross section of the first component of agure 6 along reference line YHA-ITA of FIG. 6.
[0017] FIG. 7" illustrates -cross section of the Roll-club first component of Figure 6 along reference brie V of FIG. 6.
[0018] H.G. 8 illust es a golf club beau first component bottom new.
10019] Ha 9 dlust es -golf club head first component sole port tens[cm mass Portion bottom rte\x/.
[0020] 14G. 10 illustrates a gal club he first component portion c extension mass portion close rear new [00211 FIG. 11 illustrates a cross section of a golf club heart:omponent sole portion tt extension mass portion.
[0022] FIG. 12 illustrates a 1,(/ nib head first component sole portion rear extensu in nwi di a uctachahle weight recess and an ernbecided weight recess.
[0023] 14G. 13 illustrates a top [0024] FIG. 14 illustrates side [0025] HG. 15 illustrates a golf club head first component sho3 support bars.
1 of a detachable weight with_ a threaded icrspective view of a detachable weight sivith a threaded fastener.
[0026] FTC. 1.6A illustrates a side viewof an embedded eigh lit-rM a the einheuceu \yelght recess 12.
[0027] FTC. 16B illustrated a top view of an embedded weight.
[0028] FTC. 17 Illustrates a perspective view of a g- ioit c let -I, cording to -bond ciii lao air nent.
[0029] FIG. 18 illustrates a perspectu-\.lew of a ti rE; t component oldie club head of FIG. 17.
[0030] Fla 19A illustrates a sole of the first component of FIG. 18, with the movable eight m a central position.
100311 FIG. 191$ alit. :rates a sole mew ot the ursrcornponentFIG. 8 with the movable weight In a toe-stile position.
10032] FTC, 196 illustrates a sole view of the first coniuoncnt of FTG 18. with the movable veight in a heel--side position.
[0033] PlG. 20 illustrates a close up side view ofa. golf club head, similar to the golf club head of FIG. 17, with a weight channel and a movable weight in a central position.
[0034] FIG. 21 tllustratesa close up rear view of the weight channel ot 1-4G. 20.
[0035] FIG. 22 Illustrates a sole a cull club head, with a stt It rear plc en tension, aci.:ordirtg to an embodiment.
100361 FIG, 23 illustrates a -( cur of h head, with a straicrht according mbodiment.
[0037] FTC. 24 illustrates a sole vIew of a go]t chili head with a straight rear sole extension, according to an embodiment.
(00381 FR3. 25 illustrates a of a gAf club head, with an angled rear sole extension, :ICC:Ord:11g to an em)odiment.
[0039] FIG. 26 illustrates a sole of h head, with an ngled rear le extension, accordli)ifintent.
100401 FTC. 27 illustrates a sole view of a tub head, with a -ss.iing width sole eritensior according to an embodiment.
10041] HU 28 illustrates a sole view of a),;(41 club head, with Varying Width sole tX renS * according to an emoocoment.
[0042] FIG. 29 illustrates a front ew the second component of a golf club head, accord an emb nem.
[0043] FTC. 30 illustrate front tew the e ncomponent of a golf clod head, according an embodiment.
10044] NU 31 illustrates a sole view of a golf club head haviing a toe-ward angled so extension. according to an embodiment [0045] FIG. 32 illustrates a sole view of a. golf club head having a heel a.ngicd sole rca extension, according to an embodiment.
[0046] FTC. 33 illustrates a sole view of a golf club wild.' an angled sole rear e.,:tension., according to an embodiment.
[0047] FIG, .34 illustrates a sole viev, of a golf duo head with and angled sole rear extens according to an embodiment.
[0048] ilia 35 illustrates a sole vteav of a ith return portion having an ngled rear edge, according to an embodiment.
[00491 FTC. 36 illustrates a sole vi of a golf club head with a returnn having art offset portion of a rear edge, according to an emb( 100501 FIG. 37 illustrates a crown perspective view of a fir.st component of a golf club I having a ct-own and sole return incluL ii12-a WelPfl t channel and a. crown brace, according to an einbodiment.
[0051] FTC. 38 illustrates a side view of the First componenr ofFIG. '- 100521 FTC. 39 d]ustratu, a top view of the first component of FTC. 37.
100531 NU 40 illustrates a front view of a divided second component of a golf club head, configured to loin with the first component of FTC. 37.
10054] FTC. 41 illustrates an exploded view of a golf club h third embodiment.
[0055] FI(;. 42 illustrates sect nd ci rtion eaterisi0115 of an alternate 1) head [0056] FIG. 43 illustrates a perspective view of a. go club he -th embodiment var.:an( n with toe and heel skirt braces.
100571 FIG. 44 illustrates a top view of:the golf club head of FIG. 43.
[0058] FIG. 45 illustrates a perspecti view of 3. gold club head, according to a hourtl embodiment variation with toe and heel skirt braces and a crown brace.
[0059] FIG. 46 illustrates a top vie)1-die golf club head of FIG. 13.
[0061] FIG, 48 illustrates a top view of the golf club head of FIG. 47.
[0062] FIG. 49 illustrates a perspective view of a golf club head, according to a fourth embodiment variation with toe and heel side crown. braces attached to a center of the sole extension.
10(1631 FIG. 50 illustrates a top viev, of golf club head of 11G. 49.
[0064] FIG. 51 illustrates a perspective view el a golf club head, according to a fourth embodiment variation with toe and heel side CrOWLI braces attached to sides of the sole extens and toe and heel side skirt braces.
[0065] FIG. 52 illustrates a top view of the golf club head of FIG, 51.
[0066] FIG. 53 illustrates a perspective view of a inn rth embodiment natio El with parallel toe and heel side crown braces attached to spies of the sole extension and toe and heel side skirt braces, 100671 FIG. 54 illustrates Of th lul 1 of FIG. 53.
[0068] FIG. 55 illustrates a perspective view of head, according to a tout embodiment variation with crtsscrossinn crown braces and toe and heel side skirt braces [0069] FIG. 56 ilbastrates a top view of the golf hcal of FIG. 55.
100601 FIG. 47 illustrates embodin ent oariation with toe -octave view olf club head, aecorcIinc to a fourt I eel side crc non braces attached to sides of the sole extension.
10070] IFIC;. 57 illustrates a top perspectriview of a golf dub head, according it rLtitl-rl cm Dc,c1mcnt, [0071] FTC. 58 illustrates a sole perspeiitivc view of the vc Lib head of FTC. 53.
[0072] FTC. 59 illustrates a perspective view c a first component of the club head of FTC. 53.
10073] FIG, 60 iii n trates un 'al r CI narc exploded view of a golf club head of FIG 53.
100741 ilia 61 illustrates a first tnethod cf manufacturing a golf club head.
[0075] PiG. 62 illustrates a second method of manufacturing golf club head.
[00761 RIG. 63 illustrates a third. method of manufacturing a golf club head.
(007711 NG. 64 ts a graph of rear weig)at relative -vertical displacement over tiicic after a center impact for a series of test dub head components, according to a simulation.
[0078] FIG. 65 Is a graph of rear weight reliance vertical displacement over time niter a center impact for selected test club head components from the simulation of FIG. 64.
[0079] FIG. 66 is a onmen m region of the graph of FTC. 65.
[0080] FIG, 67 is a graph of a rear weight relative vertical displacement over tit-ne., after a toe-side impact, for selected test club head components, according to a simulation.
DETAILED _Pk:SERI EDON_ [0031] Described herein is a hollow golf club head comprising two major components. The First component is metallic. The second component is non-metallic. The second component may comprise a single portion or a plurality of portions. 'flue metallic, Mist component comprises the striking portion and a sole extension. The non-metallic, second component comprises the rear portion of the crown, and wraps around to also comprise a portion of the sole. The first component comprises the load bearing, or structural area of the golf club head, and also comprises most of the mass of the golf club head. The first component comprises a ruarwardly extending sole portion with a significant portion of the golf club mass at the most rearward portion of the extension, causing the first part to form a "T" shape when viewed from above. The first component may further comprise a bridge or crown brace extending to the rear portionof the ilf iac club head. This arrangement provides discretionary mass available to be redistributed to improve the center or gravity (CC) location and moment of inertia (Mor). The improved CC and MOT provide for a more precise nall Bight compared to traditional, all metallic golf club heads. The golf club head discussed herein may comprise a driver-type golf club head, a ft Xi pe golf dui) head, or a hybrid-type 2-011club head.
100811 Tlie more dense "T" shaped sole of the first component, coupled to the less dense crown wrapped around second component can optimize mass properties by reducing, the crown mass, and shifting the golf club herd center of gniyity (CG) lower. The saved weight from the second component can be redistributed to other locations of the golly club head to Further optimize the CC and increase the MCI. The CC of the try:IFclub head can MCP., e lower and toward the rear ^)1-ihi: golf:club head comp; ;sing, the irst component and the second component, wherein the second component COM13139eS a second material with a second density that is lower than the first material density, compared to an alternate golf club head comprising only -the first material with a constant density.
100331 in one or more mbodiments, the club head may be a holly wood-style golf club head that is formed by coupling a Hist component with a second component to form a closed internal volume therebetween. The first component may include both the strike-face and a Portion of the sole, and niaz be formed from a metal or metal allo't. The second and third components may Form at least a porton of the crown and may wrap around to further form loc,th a heel portion and a toe portion of the sole. In this design, the metallic first component extends between the polymeric heel portion of the sole and the polymeric toe portion of the sole.
100841 " "an," "the,' it least one,' and "one or more' are used interchangeably to indicate that at least one of the item is present; a pluralittt of such items may he present unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Al] numerical values of parameters (e.g., of quantities or conditions) in this specification, including the appended claims, are to he understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about" whether or not "about" actually appears before the numerical value. "About" indicates that the stated numerical value allows some shglat imprecision (with some approach to exactness tn the value; about or reasonably close to the value: nearly). If the imprecision provided by "about" is not otherwise understood in the art with this ordinaiN mean thc-ti "about.'' as used herein indicates at least variations that may arise from ordinary methods of measuring and using such parameters in addition, disclosure of ranges includes disclosure of all values and further divided ranges within the entire range. Each value within 2 range and the endpoints of a range are herein' all disclosed:IS separate embodiment. The terms "comprises," Hcomprisit4. including,'" and "having are inclusive and theretbre speciFy the presence of stated items, but do nor preclude the presence of other items. As used in this.Thecification, the term "or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the listed items. When the terms first, second, third, etc, arc used to differentiate vanous items from each other, these designations are merely for convenience and do not limit the items.
100851 The terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," nd the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a particular sequential or chronological order, Tt is to be understood that the tern-is so used are in under appropriate circumstances such that the embodit lien ts described herein are, for example, capable of operation in sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. hurthermott, the terms "include," and "have," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements, hut may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent, to such process, method system, article, device, or apparatus.
[0086] The terms "left," "right," "'front," "back," "tt. CR, over "under." and the like in. the description and in the claims, if any, are LISCI: for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for describing permanent relative positions. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that tile embodiments of the apparatus, methods, and/or articles of manufacture described herein are, for example, capable of operation in other orientations than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. In the interest of consistency and clarity, all directional references used herein assume that the referenced golf club head is resting on a horizontally fiat ground plane such that predefined loft and lie angles for the head are achieved. The "front" or "forward portion" of the golf club head generally referrs to the side of the golf club head (when viewed normal to the ground plane) that includes the golf club strike face. Conversely, the rear portion cif the club head can include anything behind the strikelate and/or portions of the club that arc trailing the strike face at impact, 100871 Other features and aspects will become apparent by consicleranoriof the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. Before any embodiments of the cle,ltikure explained in detail, it should be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details or construction and the arrangement of components as set forth in the following description
Of as illustrated in the dray s The disclosure
is capable of supporting otner eniLiodinients and of being practiced of of being carried out in various ways. It should be understood that the description of specific embodiments is not intended to limit the lisclosure From covering all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Also, it is to be undecarood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose Of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
1) First Embodiment of Golf Club H... cad 100881 Described here.n is an exnrioaliment of a golf club head (100) comprising two components, a first component (300) and a second component (200). As shown in FIGS. .A-1L, the golf club head thrrris a striking face (170), a return portion (177), a hose' (14(1), a crow: (110), a sole (120), a heel end (160), a toe end (15(J), a. trading, edge (1.30) at a rear-most portion of a rear end (180), a hose] (140), and a. sole portion hosel adaptor attachment recess (195).
100891 The golf club head (100) further defines a loft plane (198) tangent to the striking lace center(175) of the striking face (170). A. face height can be measured parallel to the loft plane between a top end of the striking face perimeter near the crown (110) and a bottom end of the striking e perimeter near the sole (120). In these embodiments, the striking face nenmeter can be d located along the outer edge or tne strtiang lace( /0) where the curvature eviates from the bulge ind/or roll of the s tr face (1716 [00901 Referring to FIGS ID and IL, the striking face center (175) further defines a coordinate system having an origin at the striking face center (175), The coordinate so,.stem has an X axis, a 'V la 7 axis. The X axis (190) is a hork,:ontal axis that extends through the striking lace center (175) of the striking face (170) in a direction lion: the heel end (160) to the toe end (15(J) of the Lic..11 club head (100); and parallel roa ground plane (105) when the club head (:100) is at address. 'The I axis (192) is a vertical axis that extends through the striking face center (175) of the striking face (170) in a direction from the crown (110) to the sole (120) of the golf club head (100), and perpendicular to the X axis (190), and the 7 axis (196) extends through the striking face center (175) of the striking face (170) in a direction from the striking face (170) to the rear end (180) of the golf club head. (100) and perpendicular to the X. :its (190) and the -V axis (192).
[0091] The coordinate system defines an NY plane extending through the X axis (190) and the V axis (192), an X7 plane extending through the X axis (190) and the 7 axis (196), and a YZ plane extending through the Y axis (192) and the Z axis (,196), wherein the Xi plane, the XZ plane, and the VZ plant are all perpendicular to one another and intersect at the origin of the coordinate svs tern at the striking face center (175) of the striking face (170). The Xi ribine extends parallel to a hosel axis (199) and is positioned at an angle corresponding to the loft angle of the golf club head (100) Etorn the loft plane. The hosel axis (199) is inclined From the X-axis (190) at a presclacmiined angle referred to as the lie angle. "the hosed axis (199) can be inclined front the X-axis (190) by a lie angle of between 58 degrees to 65 degrees, inclusively. Tr, some embodiments, the hosel axis (199) is positioned at a 60 degree he angle to X-axis (190) when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the Xi plane.
[0092] The sole (120) is a lower hemisphere of the golf club head (100). In some embodiments, the sole (12.0) can be defined as a portion of the golf club head visible when viewed from a bottom view, when the club is at address. A skirt of the club head (100) can be defined as a junction between the sole (120) and the crown (110), particularly fomiing a perimeter of the club head behind the striking face (170).
[0093] The golf club head (100) can have a hollow hod ie construction that forms a. closed internal caiity (185). The outer shell of the golf club head (100) can comprise a first component (3JJ(J) and a sedan d COtripOn en r (200) that cooperate and/or couple to at least partially define an outer boundary of the internal cavity (185) (1,e_, where each component (200, 300) defines at least a portion of the outer boundary of the internal cavity (185)).
100941 Referring to FIG. IL the first component (300) is roughly T-shaped when viewed from the sole. The sole of the first component (300) has a sole rear extension (500) with a mass portion (510), which houses at least one weig,lit at the extreme rear end of the sole extension (500). The second component (200) farms most of the remainder of the golf club head that is not formed by the First component (300). This COI-It:pi ration lowers the CC of the assembled golf club head, and moves the CCI-towards the rear of die assembled golf club head.
[0095] The first component (300) comprises a first material having a first density. The first material is a metallic material. The second cornponent (200) comprises a second material comprising a second density. The second material is a non-metallic material. The first and second components (300, 200) comprise a first component mass and a second component mass, respectively. in some embodiments, the first component (300) may be integvially formed as a single piece, so the first component can comprise a single material. In 5OiflC ernliodirnents,the first component: (3(0) may he integrally formed with the exception of a mass portion that is removable and/or repositionable. Alternately, first component (300) may comprise a. separately formed striking, face insert comprising a different metallic material (i.e. a third material) than the remainder oi the first component (300).
[0096] The second, non-rnetallic component (200) is coupled to, wrapped around, or overlapped over the first, metallic component (300) to Conn the hollow golf club head (400). The second component trailing edge portion (230) connects the second component crown portion (205) with the second component sole portions (21 2, ?int) as they wrap around the first component (300), 10097] The material density of the First component (300) (i,c. the first density) is greater than the material density of the second component (200) (i.e. the second density). 'The mass percentage of the first component (300) can range from 85% to 96% of the total mass of golf club head (100). For example, the first component percentage of the mass of the golf club head may he 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90))/0" 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95(1/4, or 960'o the mass percentage of the second component (200) can range from 4% to 15% of the total mass of golf club head (100). The first component (300) comprises a rear eXteriSiOrt (500) on the sole, the rear extension (500) having a mass portion (510). The mass portion (510) is a back end or the rear ts.:x tension (500), beginning at a front side of a weight port and ending-at the trailing edge (1130). The mass portion (510) can comprise between 20% and 35% of the mass of' the. hollow multi--component golf-club head (100). Placing so much of the mass of the golf club head at an extreme rear position of the golf club head provides mass characteristics that are functionally desirable. For example, the extreme rear position of the mass portion (MO) can lower the (1)Ci of the golf club head, which improves launch characteristics.
[0098] A) First Component [0099] As illustrated In FTG..I A 1 F, and 4-8, the first component (300) can comprise the striking lase (170), having a ref, irn portion (177), and a rearward extension (500). The retain) porno (127) -EOM's at least a portion of the crown (400), a portion of the sole (120), the hosed (140), a portion of the heel end (16(1), a portion of the toe end (150), and a recessed lip (450) (also referred to as a joint extension surface). The rearward extension (500) connects to and extends rearwards from the return portion (177). 't he rearward extension (500) forms at least a portion of the sole (12(J) and positioned approximately perpendicular to the striking lace (170). The reankard ex-if:tisk)! (SOW extends from a rear edve of the return tion (177) towards2. :railing edge (130) of the club head (100). The return portion (177) forms a rearward profile in a heel end to roe end direction. In other embodiments, the rearward profile of the first component (300) can extend from the heel end (160) toward the toe end (150) in a straight-lined profile, in a posittve parabolic profile, in a bell shaped profile, or any other profiles relative to the striking face (170).
1001001 Referring to FIGS lE and 4, the first component (300) comprises a hose] bore (14 defining a hose] axis (199), a striking raLc center (175), a forward crown portion (400), having a tbrward crown portion width (405), and a first component trailing edge (130). Some embodiments may further comprise first component crown -portion turbuiators (430) having 'a first component crown portion turbulators -toe portion (432) and a first component crown portion turbulators heel portion (434), [00101] 'the first component can comprise a recessed lip 0, also referred to as a first component lip or a joint extension surface) configured to overlap with a portion of the second component (200), and together Form the golf chub head (100). The first component lip (450) can border the first component perimeter edge (462) haying a first component crown portion lip (455), and First component tabs (457). The first component tabs (4 and matching grooves in the second component, align the first component (31ll) to the second component (200) during assembly, and also add mechanical support to pre a oat sideways movement hetWeCti the first component (300) and the second component (200). In some embodiments, the second component does not comprise grooves to receive the first component tabs (457). In these embodiments, the first component tabs (457) provide predetermined spacing (i.e. an adhesive gap) between the first and second components. This predetermined spacing can cause the adhesive to bond uniformly and evenly across the lap joint.
[00102] The first componentrecessed from an outer surface of the golf club head (100) to accommodate the combined thickness of the overlapping lip of the second component (200), and any adhesive see' ring the two components together. Referring to 1--1(.3.3. 5, 9, and 10, the first component (300) comprises a first component lip recessed offset (459), a First component sole portion hp (460), a first component sole portion rear extension (500), a first component sole portion rear extension mass portion (510) having a mass portion interior ion-yard boundary (1050 which corresponds to the forward exterior boundary 918, shown in FIG. 9), one or more mass portion bsterior ribs (52h), and a detachable weight recess (540) having a threaded Listener receiver boss (542). Referring also to FIG. 1F, a first component lip (455) is configured to he covered by a portion of the second component (200) when the first component (300) is coupled to the second component (200) to fOrm the golf club (100). 'Thc first corn ponent (300) may preferably be coupled to the second component (200) with an adhesive placed between the overlapping surfaces of the first component and the second component.
1001031 Referring to FIG. 7A, the first component lip has a width (730), which can range from 0.125 inch to 0.275 inch. For example, the first c"ornp,nent lip width (730) may be 0.125 inch, 0.150 inch, 0.175 inch, 1200. inch, 0.022 inch, 0,225 inch, 0.250 inch, or 0.275 inch.
1001041 The first component recessed offset (459) is an offset distance of the hp (455) From the outer surface of the first component (300) toward the interior of the golf club head. The recessed offset (459) can range from 0.060 inch to 0.160 inch toward the interior of the golf club head (100). In other embodiment:, the recessed offset (459) can range from 0.060 inch to 0.150 inch, 0.060 inch to 0)140 inch, 0.080 inch to 0.160 inch, 0.090 to 0.130 inch, or 0.090 inch to 0.160 inch. For example, the recessed offset (459) can he 0.060 inch, 0.070 inch, 0.080 inch, 0.090 inch, 0.100 inch, 0.110 inch, 0.120 inch, 0.130 inch, 0.140 inch, 0.150 inch, or 0.160 inch.
[00105] The first: component lip (450) can comprise a thickness. The thickness of the first component lip c450) can nuige between 0.007 inch and 11.030 inch. In some embodiments, the thickness of the first component lip (43)1) can be between about 0.007 inch and 0.009 inch, 0.009 inch and 11.011 inch. 1)011 inch and 0.01.3 inch, 0.013 inch and 0.015 inch, 0.015 inch and 0.017 inch, 0.017 inch and 0.019 inch, 0.019 inch and 0.021 inch, 0.021 inch and 0.023 inch, 0.023 inch and 0.025 inch, 0.025 inch and 0.027 inch, or 0.027 inch and 0.030 inch.
1001061 Still referring to 11G. 5, the first component has a rear extension on the 51 de, which allows a larger portion of the mass of the assembled g(4f cli^L; head t.() be mcwed down to the sole and towards the rear of the assembled golf club head. The rear extension (500) extends from and is integral with the return portion (177), allowing impact stresses to propagate all the way to the rear of the sole, helping to balance the distribution of impact: stress in the golf club head.
[00107] Still referring to FIG. 5, the first component lip (450) comprises the first component crown portion lip (455), the First component sole portion lip (460). The first component lip (450) may have other portions. :13
[001081 Referring n) 17R 'r 6, a plane (610) parallel to the ground plane (105), and iittersecting the strike face center (175) defines a view of the lower portion of the firs, iomponent (300) as show in 7A. Referring to FIGS. 7A and 8, the rear extension (500) extends from a rear perimeter of a striking face return sole portion (810) toward the year end (180) of the golf club head (100).
[00109.1 Referring to FIG. 7A, the first component (3010 comprises a first component sole portion heel extension (TM), a first component sole portion toe extension (720), a, first component lip (460) haring a first component lip width (730), a. Hirst component trailing edge portion (740), and a first component sole portion rear extension mass portion (510) having a vertical lip (750), and a inaSS portion trailing edge shelf (760).
[00110] The rear extension (500) has a larger truss at a rear most position of the extension.
Placing the mass at the rear most position allows for the manipulation of the rear sole extension position to greatly affect the mass properties of the assembled golf club head. In some embodiments, referring to FIGS. 57-60, the first: component rear extension ((500) can coiriptise a sole aperture (535). The sole aperture functions to farther move mass adjacent the rearmost end of the rear extension (500). As aforementioned, placing the mass at the rearmost end allows the CC to be moved rearward, thereby increasing the moment of inertia of the club head. By added a sole aperture (535), more discretionary mass will be created to place on the reannOS end of the rear extension (500).
[00111] Referring to FIG. 8, the first component (300) comprises a striking face return sole portion rear extension (500) having a first component sole portion rear extension length (505) and a First component sole portion rear extension width (507). The First component (300) comprises a striking Face remrn sole portion 1/(810), having a striking face renam =He portion wii:ith (815), a first component sole portion toe (n(tension (820) having a first component sole portion to extension length (825), and a first component sole portion heel extension (830) having a first component sole portion heel extension length (835). The rear extension length (505) is measured from a rear neritneler of the striking [ace return sole portion (810), towards the rear end (180). The rear extension length (505) can range between 2.5 inches to 4.5 inches. I sole portion width lile return (815) is measured from the loft;plane (198) rearwardly to a rear perimeter of the striking face return portion (177), which is a sole portion of a first component perimeter edge (462). The rear extension length (505) and the striking face return sole portion width (815) together comprise a total sole length c)fl the ();olf chth head (n0) measured fr:Tn the loft pl(me (198) to the re(ir end (180) along the 1 4 sole (120). The rear extension width (507) is the width of the rear extension (500). The rear extension width (507) is measured in a heel to toe direction rearward of a rear perimeter of the striking face return sole portion (810), which is a sole portion of a First component perimeter edge (462). The rear extension width (507) is less than an entire width of the sole (120) of the grill club (1041). The rear extensionW id t h (507) can range from 25% to 85% of an entire width ot: the sole (120). "flie rear extension width (507) mav be 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 30%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80% or 83°,10 of an entire width of the sole (12)1t. Trt some embodiments, the rear extension width (507) can range from 0.4 inch to 2.5 inches.
100112.] Referring to FIGS 7A and 8, the first component sole portion rear extension (500), toe extension (720), and heel extension (710) together form a T-like structure. the first component sole portion rear extension (500) forms a toe-ward angle (830) with the toe extension (720), and a heel-ward angle (833) with the heel extension (710). the 61'3 t component (300) further comprises a detachable weight recess (540) having a plurality of detachable weight recess tabs (546), 1001131 Referring to FIGS 5, 7A, and. 8, the striking face return (177) extends rearwardly from a striking face perimeter, essentially perpendicular to the striking face (170). The striking face (170) HI' jog face return (177) comprise a forward section of the assembled golf club head. The striking face return (177) comprises a striking face return crown portion (400) having a striking face ren am crown portion 'width (1.1-05), and 'a ream: stale portion (810) liaving a striking face remm role portion width (815). The striking face return crown portion (400) comprises a rearward perimeter that forms a profile on the crown (11(0 from the heel end (160) of the crown (110) to a toe end (150) of the crown (110). The striking face return crown portion width measured from the striking; face (170) toward the rear end (180) mar vary. The striking face renarn crown portion maximum width (405) may be located near the toe end (150) or the heel end (160). In other embodiments, the Forward crown portion maximum width (405) may be located in a middle region between the toe end (150) and the heel end (160). The, striking face return crown portion width (403) can be at least 0,8 inch, at least 1.0 inch, at least 1.2 inches, or at least 1.4 inches. In sonic embodiments, the: striking race return crown portion mar-inn:Ana width (405) can range from 1.0 inch to 1.5 inches. For example, the striking face return crown portion maximum width (405) may be 1.0 inch, 1.1 inches. 1.2 inches, 1.3 inches, 1.4 inches, or 1.5 inches. The second component crown portion width (405) can be similar to the crown portion as described in U.S. Appl. No. 11/693,490, now LIS. Patent No. L,601,078.
[00114] The striking face return (177) of the first component (300) can comprise a thickness extending between the outer surface and the inner surface of the strikii hfte return (177). The thickness of the First component (300) can range from 0.015 inch to GA)40 inch. In other embodiments, the thickness of the -first component (300) can range from 0.010 inch to 0,040 inch, 0.010 inch to 0.020 inch, 0.015 inch to 0.025 inch, 0.020 inch to 0.030 inch, 0.025 inch to 0.035 inch, 0.030 inch to 0.040 inch, 0.040 inch to 0.10 inch, or 0.10 inch to 0.25 inch, liOr example, the thickness of the first component (300) can be 0.010 inch, 0.015 inch, 0.020 inch, 0.023 inch, 0.030 inch, 0.035 inch, or 0.040 inch. In some embodiments, the thickness of the first component (300) can vary-at the striking face (170), the return crown portion (400), the first component sole portion (310), the first component sole portion heel extension (710), the tirst component sole portion roe extension (720), and the first component sole portion rear extension mass portion (510).
[00115] Referring to FIG. S. the crown portion turbulators (430) located on the return crown portion (400) are pronpsions that affect the aerodynamics of the golf club head (100). In some embodiments, the return crown portion (400) can comprise indentations on its inner surthcc that correspond to the crown portion turthilators (430), giving the turbulators (430) the SaMC! thickness (wall thickness, measured between the inner and outer surfaces) as the remainder of the return crown portion (400). However, in other embodiments, one or more of the crown portion turbulators (430) can be filled to give it a thickness greater than the remainder of the return crown portion (100). The increased thickness of the return crown portion (400) au the one or more filled turbulators can increase the durability of the golf club head (100) by increasing the rigidity of at least a section of the return crown portion (100).
[00116] Referring to FIGS. 5, 713, and 7C, the crown portion turbulators (430) can be categorized as toe portion turbulators (432) and. heel portion turbulators (434). In some cmbodiments, one or nthrc Oil the crown portion turbulators (430) is tilled with niaterial (solid), such that there is no corresponding indentation on an inner surface of the return crown portion (400). in some embodiments, one or MOre of the toe portion turbulators (432) can lie filled. In some embodiments, one or more of the heel portion turbulators (434) can be filled. A region of the crown return portion (400) with one or more filled turhulators can he stiffer or more rigid than regions of the crown return portion (400) that have unfilled turhulators. A solid turhulator comprises a thickness that is greater than the thickness of the remainder of the crown return portion (4i)(1).
100117] Referring to FI( S. 713 and 7C, in some erril);)diments, a thickened region (436) of the crown return portion (400) comprises thicknesses ffeater than the thickness of the remainder of the crown return portion (400). In general, the crown return portion (400) can have the striking face return (177) thickness, described above. I lower cr, -in some embodiments, the thickness of the return crown portion (400) can be increased within the thickened region (436) by up to 0.002 inch, up to 0.003 inch, up to 0.004 inch, no to 0.005 inch, up to 0.006 inch, up to 0.007 inch, up to 0.008 inch, up to 0.009 inch, or up to 0.010 inch. 'the thickened region (436) can be a patch, rectangular region, a bounded region, and/or a shape that at least partially encompasses one or more of the crown portion mrbulators (430). in the embodiment shown 71i, the bounded region encompasses two of the heel portion turbulators (131). The turbutators are tilled (solid) within the hounded region (436). FIG. 7C illustrates a cross section showing a filled crown portion turbulator (430).
[00118] When a golf ball impacts golf club (100), the first component)0), including the crown return portion (400), be Js and flexes. This flexing of the crown return portion (400) of the first component (300) can induce stresses within the second component (200), which is bonded to the first component lip (450). The second component (200) can he put at risk of material failure if the crowm return porti(m 6400) of the First component (300) repeatedlc, flexes beyond a certain threshold. Adding a thickened region (436) can localhT increase the cross-sectional area of the crown return portion (400) adjacent portioxis of the second component (200) that might be a.t risk of ina terial failure after repeated impacts. Increasing the cross-sectional area of We crown return portion (400) at the thickened region (436) reduces the stress, thus increasing the durability of the club head (10().
[00119] Nlnriinulati,icy the position of the rear sole extension (500) proytd.s a means of manipulating the mass properties of the assembled golf club head. Refereiog to FIGS. 4, 5, , and 8, the sole portion of the first component Can extend from a center near thy; sinking face toward the toe end f,)rming a first c.,)nap,)nent sole portion toe end eKtension (720), I, ward the heel end forming a first component sole portion heet end extension (710), and toward the rear end Forming a first component sole portion rear extension (500). 'Ihe first component sole portion toe extension (720), the first component sole portion heel extension 110), and the first component sole portion rear extension (500) can form a shaped profile. In some embodiments, the tot extension can have a first component sole portion toe end extension length (825) in a range of 1.30 h. to 2.00 inch from the YZ plane toward the toe end (150). For example, the first component sole portion toe extension (720) can have first corny; It sole porton toe end extension length (825) of 1.30 inch, 1.60 inch, 1.70 inch, 1.80 inch, 1.90 inch, or 2.00 inch toward the toe end (130). In some embodiments, the first component sole portion fled end extension (710) can have a first component sole portion heel ex tension length (835) in a ran2.-c of 0.90 inch to 1.40 inch From the Y/ plane toward the heel end (160). For ex-tit-male, the first component sole portion hoc: end extension (710) can extend 0.90 inch, 1.10 inch, 1.20 inch" 1.30 inch, or 1.40 inch. 'Ike first coinponetit sole portion rear extension (500) can extend 2.30 inch to 2.90 inch rearward from the striking Face return (177). For example, the first component sole portion rear extension (500) can extend from the striking Face. return (177) by a distance of 2.30 inch, 2.40 inch, 2.50 inch, 2.60 inch, 2.70 inch, 2.80 inch, or 2.90 inch.
Shifting the first component sole portion rear extension (500) (also simply called the xtension'') closer to the toe end (150) or the heel end (160) of the golf club heat. (100) provides one means of manipulating the mass properties of assembled golf club head, and changt the kali flight \\ hen m2inufac rutting the taut component (300), I:noting the rear (Oil ens (500) toward the toe end (150) or toward the heel end (160) of the golf club (100) will change mass properties of the assembled golf club head. Ti: the rear extension (5010 is moved toward the toe end (150) by decreasing the first con iponent sole portion toe end at tens ion length (825) the center of gravity of the golf club head (100) will also be moved towards the toe end (150). If the first component sole portion rear extension (500) is moved toward the heel end (160) of the golf club head (10(1), the center of gravity of the golf club head (100) will also be moved towards the heel end (460).
[00121] The First component (300) comprises a surface area ranging from 27 inclY to 41 inch out of the entire surface area of the gill -dub head (100). In some embodiments, the surface area of the first component (300) can range from 25 inch: to 43 inch', 23 inch:to 28 inch, 28 irtal)2to 31 inch', 31 inch to 34 inch', 34 inch.' tel 37 inch, 37 in hi' to 40 inch', or 40 inch to 43 inch'. For example, the 25 inch', 27 inch 29 inch, 31 inch', 33 in Ji2, 35 ind-H, 37 inch, 39 inch', 41 inch, or 13 inch:.
[00122] The first component (300) can,prise a material such as steel, tungsten, alt if titamurn, vanadium, chromium, cobalt, nickel, other metals, or metal alloys. In sonic embodiments, the first component (300) can comprise all 8A1 alloy. In many embodiments wherein the golf club head (100) is a driver-type club head, the first component (300) can comprise a Uranium material. In mint; embodiments wherein the golf club head (100) is a fairway wood-type club head, the first component (ma) can comprise a steel material.
100123] In many embodiments, the first component (300) can be casted. In other embodiments, the first component (300) can be forged, pressed, rolled, extruded, machined, electroforined, 3-D printed, or any appropriate forming techniciue. Referring FTG. 15, in embodiments wherein the first component (300) is cast, the first component (300) may farther comprise a plurality of casting support bars, including one more heel end castittg support bars (1510), and one or more toe end
-
casting support bars (1512).
1) First Component Rear Sole Extension [00124] As discussed above, the first component comprises the strikinc face and striking face return (177). These portions of the golf club head (100) receive and distribute the impact forces when the golf club strikes a ball. TI 'e rear extension (500) is integrally formed with the rest of the first component (300), and extends from the striking face return sole portion (810). Further, the MASS of the rear extension (500), resists torquing forces caused by off center hits on the striking face. in many embodiments, the first component sole portion toe end extension (720), and the first component sole portion heel end extension (710) can be parallel with the striking face (170), comprising a constant width from front to back. In other embodiments, the toe end extension (720), and heel end extension (710) can increase and/or decrease in width from toward the toe end (1511) and hed end ( 60), cern:prising a varying width. Tr: sOITIC embodiments, the first component sole portion toe (720) and heel end (710) extensions can comprise a width ranging from 1.0 incl to 1.5 inches. For example, the toe (720) and heel end (710) extensions can be 1.00 inch, 1.10 inches, 110 inches, 1.30 inches, 1.40 inches, or 1.30 inches.
[00125] In many embodiments, the first component sole portion rear extension (300) can increase in width, decrease in width, and/or comprise a consistent width (507) from a rear boundary of the striking face return sole portion (810) toward the rear end (180). In some embodiments, the rear end extension (500) can comprise a width (507) ranging from 1.0 inch to 3.5 inches. For example, the rear end extension can be 1.0 inch, 1.25 inches, 1.30 inches, 1.73 inches, 2.00 inches, 2.25 inches, 2.50 inches, 2.75 inches, 3.0 inches, 3.25 inches, or 3.50 inches. In some embodiments, the rear extension (500) comprises a varying width in a front to rear direction. Specifically, the rear extension (500) can comprise a width that increases in a Front to rear direction. In these embodiments, the width o F the rear extension (500) has a minimum value adjacent the striking face rerun portion (810), an a rnt unium value adjacent the rear of the club head. fncreaiurig the width of Inc rear extension (500) towards the rear of the club head allows the rear extension (50; support a weight or wei2ht system. Varying the width or the rear extension (5(0), so that the tninimum width is adjacent the striking return sole portion (81(f), reduces inass adjacent the face return and allows this saved weight to be redistributed to the perimeter of the club head. In other embodiments, the rear extension (500) can comprise a width that decreasing in a front to rear direction. Decreasing the width of the rear extension towards the rear cif the club head can provide additional structural support for the weight or weight systems attached to the rear extension (500).
100126] Tr; some embodiments as litisirated in FIG. 2, We First component sole portion rear extension (500) can extend in a perpendicular orientation relative to the striking face (170), centered between the toe end (150) and the heel end (160). in other embodiments, the rear extension (500) can extend in an on closer to the toe end (130), or closer to the heel end (1601). The rear extension (500) can be offset towards the heel end (160) from 0.05 inch to 1.0 inch. For example, the rear extension (500) can be offset towards the heel end (160) 0.1 inch, 0.2 inch, 0.3 inch, 0.4 inch, 0.5 inch, 0.6 inch, 0.7 inch, 0.8 inch, 0.9 inch, or 1.0 inch. The first component sole portion rear end extension (500) can be offset towards the toe end (15()) from 0.05 inch to 1.0 inch. For example, the rear extension (500) can be offset to \vards the ice end (160) 0.1 inch, 0.2 inch, 0,3 inch, 0.4 inch, 0,5 inch, 0.6 inch, 0.7 inch, 0.8 inch, 0.9 inch, or 1.0 inch.
[00127] If the first component sole portion rear end extension (500) is oftset towards the toe end (150), the center of gravity of the golf club head (100) can be offset towards the toe end (150) no to 0.150 inch, when compared to a similar golf club head with the sole portion rear end extension (500) being centered. For example, the center of gravity may be offset towards the toe end (150) 0.010 inch, 0.020 inch, 0.030 inch, 0.040 inch. 0.050 inch, 0.060 inch, 0.070 inch, 0.080 inch, 0.090 inch, 0.100 inch, 0.110 inch, 0.120 inch, 0.130 inch, 0.140 inch, or 0,150 inch. If the first component sole-portion war end extension (500) is offset towards the he-el end (160), the center of gravity of the gol F club head (100) can by offset towards the heel end (160) up to 0.150 inch. For example, the center of gravity may be offset towards the heel end (160) 0.010 inch, 0.020 inch, 0.030 inch, 0.040 inch, 0.0=10 inch, 0.060 inch, 0.070 inch, 0.080 inch, 0.090 inch, 0.100 inch, 0.110 inch, 0.120 inch, 0.130 inch, 0.140 inch, or 0.150 inch. 'The offset of tne center of gravity can affect ball flight characteristics by biasing the golf club head towards a fade-counteracting, position or a draw-counteracting position at impact [00128] Re [erring ia) FIGS. 31 and 32, another means,Almanipul ating the mass propenies of the 41: club head is to change the angle the rear sole extelision relative to a triking race of the first component. The fIrst eomponent sole rear extension can comprise a rear extension axis (504), The rear extension axis (504) can extend through a center of the sole extension, from a sole view. The rear extension axis (504) can be positioned so that, in a sole view, it is roughly equidistant from each side of the sole rear extension (500) at all points along the axis (504). The rear extension (500) itself can be positioned so that the rear extension axis intersects the "CZ plane (193) at a rear extension angle (508), as illustrated in FICS. 35 and 36. In some embodiments, the rear extension axis (504) can intersect the VZ plane (193) at a point adjacent a rear edge of the return portion (17'7). "the rear extension angle (508) can range from. 0 degrees to 45 degrees. In some embodiments, the rear extension angle (508) can range from 0 to 10 degrees, to 20 degrees, 0 to 30 degrees, 0 to 40 degrees, 10 to 20 degrees, 10 to 30 degrees, 10 to 40 decrees, 10 to 45 degrees, 20 to 30 degrees, 20 to 40 degrees, 20 to 43 degrees, 30 to 40 degrees, or 30 to 43 degrees. Figants 25-28; 33, and 34 illustrate other en-thodiments with angled sole extensions, described below, 1001291 Adjusting the angle of the rear extension positions the detachable weight either heel-ward or toe-ward on the club head (100) because the weight is secured within a 11C1111(111a111:1 Weight recess (540). By angling the rear extension club (1011; can be weighted to have a draw bias when the extension (500) is angled towards the heel of the club head (100). in other embociimemN, angling the rear extension (500) towards the toe of the club head (100) gives the club head a Fade bias.
100130] Referring to FIG. S. the arigula flon of the rear extension (500) cart also be understood through angles between the edges of the sole rear eytension (500) and the return portion (177). The first component sole portion rear extension toe-ward angle (850) and the first component sole portion rear extension heel-ward angle (855) are supplementarv-angles (i.e. the two angles add up to 180 degrees). In in eml)odinient; the toe ward1-mgle (850) and the heel-ward angle (855) reeJich 90 degrees; so the rear extenskal. (500) is essentially perpendicular to the striking face (170). In alternate embodiments, We toe-ward angle (850) and the heel-ward angle (855) can each vary between 45 degrees and 135 degrees; as long as the two angles continue to be supplementary angles. For example; the toe-ward anole (850) can be 100 degrees, while the heel-ward angle (855) is the supplementary 80 degrees. In tins example, the mass portion (3i0 is angularly offset towards the heel end (180) of the golf club head (l 00).
[00131] Other combinations of tiierward angle (850) and heel-ward angle (855) may be 110 degrees and 70 degrees, 120 degrees and 60 degrees, 130 degrees and 50 degrees, or 13.5 degrees and 45 degrees. "The center of gravity of the golf club head would be offset toward the rear mass portion 4510) position. For example, the center of gravity may be offsin towards the heel end (160) 0.010 inch, 0.020 inch, 0.030 inch, 0.040 inch, 0.050 inch, 0.060 inch, 0.070 inch, 0.080 inch, 0.090 inch, 0.100 inch, 0.110 inch, 0.120 inch, 0.130 inch, 0.140 inch, or 0.150 inch. in a similar fashion, the toe-ward angle may decrease while the heel-ward angle increases. I 'or example, the combination of toe-ward angle (850) and heel-ward angle may be 80 degrees and 100 degrees, 70 degrees and 110 degrees, 60 degrees and 120 degrees, 50 degrees and 130 degrees, or 45 degrees and 135 degrees. For example, the center cif gravity may be offset towards the toe end (160) by 0.010 inch, 0.020 inch, 0.030 inch, 0.040 inch, 0.050 inch, 0.060 inch, 0.070 inch, 0.080 inch, 0.090 inch, 0.100 inch., 0.110 inch, 0.120 inch, 0.130 inch, 0.140 inch, or 0.150 inch. This angular offset may be desirable to 131ace a rear mass more toward the rear, heel -ward portion or rear toe--ward portion to position a dun head center of gravity in that direction to influence ball flight characteristics. Angular offsets in other embodiments may differently combine the first component sole portion rear extension toewani angle (830) and the first component sole portion rear extension heel-ward angle (855), which can produce differ:a-it club head center of gravity positions and different ball flight characteristics.
2) First Component Rear Sole Extension Rear Mass [00132] As discussed above, the first component comprises most of the mass of the assembled golf club head. The rear extension (300) allows for some of the golf club mass to he positioned away toward the rear of the club head, and in the sole of the club head. the rear extension (500) comnrises a mass portion at me rear of the golf chin head, allowing the mass there to further in dutence the CG and Isill()1 of the golf club head. The first component sole portion rear extension mass portion (510) alone can comprise between 20% to 35% of the total mass of the golf club head (100). Placing this mass at the rear most portion of the rear extension (500) is an important aspect to controlling the mass properties of the golf club head (100) during mania laeturing the first component (300).
1001331 Referring to FIG. 9, the first component sole portion rear extension mass portion (510) comprises a threaded receiver (545), one or more weight recess tabs (546), and the mass portion (510) having, a heel side external boundary (910), a toe side external boundary (915), and a forward external boundary (918).
[00134] Referring 6) FI( li 10, the mass p)rtion (510) huther comprises a plurality of internal ribs (520) having an internal rib width (52.3) The plurality of internal ribs (520) may comprise two ribs, three ribs, four ribs, live ribs, or more than five ribs. The plurality of internal ribs (520) mate with, or attach to the interior S Utfi CC of the rear extension mass portion detachable weight recess (540). The internal ribs (520) can reduce unwanted vibration at the mass portion (51(1), which is desirable because so much of the mass of the golf club head (100) is located so far to the rear of the golf club head. The mass portion (510) further comprises a vertical lip (75(J) having a vertical hp height (1150), a mass portion trailing edge shelf (1042) having a shelf length (10.48), a shelf height (1044), and a shelf width (1046). The shelf length (1048) is approximately the same as a rear extension width. (507), and varies as the width of the MASS portion (510) varies.
[00135] The shelf (1042) provides a mating surface for a pardon of the second component when the first and second components are coupled to lomi the assembled golf club head. The mass portion (510) further comprises an interior forward boundary (1050), and a vertical lip length (1052).
100136] Referring to FIG. 8, the -view of the rear mass (510) is bisected by the VZ plane (193).
As shown in FIG. 11, the mass portion comprises an internal length (1110), a mass portion maxirrium height (1112), and a vertical lip height (1150). 'The internal ribs further comprise a rib height (1120) and a rib length (1122) [001371 The internal rib wiclth (523) can range from 0.025 inch to 0.100 inch. For example, the internal rib width (523) may be 0.025 inch, 0.050 inch, 0.075 inch, or 0.100 inch. The internal rib height (1120) ranges from 25510 to 100 t'.0 of a detachable weight recess depth (1216). The internal rib length (1122) can range from 0.100 inch to 1.500 inch. For example, the internal rib length (1122) may be 0.100 inch, 0.200 inch, 0.300 inch, 0.400 inch, 0.500 inch, 0.600 inch, 0.700 inch, 0.800 inch, 0.900 inch, 1.000 inch, 1.100 inches, 1.200 inches, 1.300 inches, 1.400 inches, or 1.500 inches.
[00138] The mass portion (510) has a mass portion MaXitillifil height (1112) located approximately along the most upper portion of the mass portion vertical lip (75(1). The mass portion (510) decreases in thickness 21,S It appraltheS the heel side eti.ternal boundary (9111), the toe side external boundary (915), and the forward external boundary (918). 'the mass portion maximum height (1112) comprises the maximum thickness of the miss portion (510). The maximum thickness of the mass portion e from 0.40 inch to 0.70 inch. For example, the maximum thickness of the mass p -)) nut' be 0.40 inch, 0.50 inch, 0.60 inch, or 0.70 inch 3) First Component Detachable and Embedded Weights [00139] 'to allow further control of the mass properties of the assembled:pH dub head, a detachat)le weight recess and a detachable weight are provided, wherein the detachable weight mass can fine tune the mass properties of the golf dub head at the point of assembly. the detachable weight recess (540) further comprises a plurality of detachable weight recess tabs. The plurality of detachable weight recess tabs may be two tabs, three tabs, four tabs, five tabs, or more than five tabs.
[00140] Referring to FIG. 12, it may be desirable to further increase the mass placed in the rear most portion of the golf club head. The mass portion (510) may further comprises an embedded weight recess (1220). Therefore, an embedded weight recess (1220) and an embedded weight, (1600) (configured to be received with the embedded weight recess (1220)) comprising an embedded wettiht material having a density that is higher than the first density of the first component (300) first material may be provided.
[00141] Referring, to 1'1G. 13, the detachable weight (1300) can comprise a material such as steel, tungsten, aluminum, titanium, vanadium, chromium, cobalt, nickel, other metals, metal alloys, composite polymer materials or any combination thereof. In many embodiments, the sole weight can be tungsten. The detachable weight (1300) has a mass.
[00142] The detachable weight (1300) mass can range from 1,0 gram ns, 35.0 grams. For example, the detachable weight (1300) mass may be 1.0 gram, 1.5 grams, 2,0 arams, 3.0 grams, 4.0 grams, 5.0 grams, 6.0 grams, 7.0 grams, 8.0 grams, 9.0 grains, 10.0 grams, 11.0 grams, 12,0 grams, 13.0 grams, 14.0 grams, 15.0 grams, 16,0 grams, 17,0 grams, 18.0 grains, 19.0 grams, 20.0 grams, 21 grams, 22 grams, 23, grams, 24, grams, 25 gr, ims, 26 grams, 27 grams, 28 grams 29, gran s 30 grams, 31 grams, 32 grams, 33 grams, 34 grams, or 33 grams.
[00143] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 13, the detachable weight (1300) is co di to be rece within the detachable weight recess (540). The detachable weight (1300) further comprises a through hole approximately-in the center of the detachable weight (1300). ',the through hole is conf4/aired to receive detacthtble weigbit threr,ided fastener (1320), all(yacring the threaded Fastener (1320) to be flareadably received in the threaded receiver Hst, (542) to secure the detachable weight (1300) into the detachable weight recess (540).
1001441 Referring to FR-3 14, the detachat ht (1300) further comprises thickness (1430), a plurality of detachable weight offsets (1434), and a plurality of detachable weight side grooves (1438). The plurality of detachable weight offsets (1434) may be two offsets, three offsets, four offsets, five offsets, or more than five offsets. The plurality of detachable weight side grooves (1438) may be two g:o,vcs, three grooves, bur grooves, five got; es, or incite than fivt grooves. The offsets (1434) arc configured to cause the detachable weight (1300) to be slightly offset from the walls of the detachable weight recess (540) when the detachable weight (1300) is received within the detachable weight recess (.540) The detachable weight side grooves (1438) are configured to receive the detachable weight recess tabs when the detachable weight (1300) is received within the detachable weight recess (540).
[001451 Referring to EIGS. 16A and 16B, an embedded weight (1600) has a mass. Tit( embedded weight (1600) MASS can range from 1.0 gram to 20.0 grams. For example, the embedded weight (1600) Mass may be 1.0 gram, 2.0 grams, 3.0 grams, 4.0 grams, 5.0 grams, 6.0 grams, 7.0 grams, 8.0 gyams, 9.0 grams, 10.0 grams, 11.0 grams, 12.0 grams, 13,0 grams, 1,1,0 grams, 15.0 grams, 16.0 grams, 17.0 grams 18.0 grams, 19.0 grams, or 20,0 grams.
L001461 The embedded we ht (1600) comprises a tungsten material, a tungsten -alloy material, a polymer matrix embedded with tungsten particles, or any other suitable material having a. density greater than the first material density. The embedded weight (1600) is conk-tilted to fit within and be permanently affixed in the embedded weight recess (1220). The embedded weight (1600) may be permanently affixed using an adhesive, lw swedging or other press fit methods, or by using an appropriate mech2mica1 attachment means.
B) Second Component [00147] the golf club head (100) comprises -first component (300) and a non-metallic, lightweight second component (200) configured to he coupled together to form the hollow go, club head (100). As illustrated in FIGS. IF, 2 and 3, the secnnd component (200) can comprise at least a portion of the crown (110), the sole (120), the trailing edge (13(1), and a rear cutout (240). Referring specifically to FIGS. IF and 2, the second component (200) comprises a second component crown portion (205), a second component sole portion heel portion (214), a second component sole portion toe portion (212), a sen lent perimeter edge (220), a second component sole portion rear cutout (210) having 'a second component sole portion rear cutout width (242) and a second component sole portion rear cutout height (244), and a second component trailing edge portion (230). In sonic embodiments, nor shown, the second component can comprise only a portion of the crown. In these embodiments, the sole portion rear cutout (240) can wrap around into the crown (203).
[00148] As illustrated in FIGS, -4, the second component crown portion (205) wraps over the trailing edge (130), integrally Forming the portions of the sole complementary to the First component. The second component heel altd EOC' solenions (214) (212) formed by the second component (200) can comprise a triangular shape positioned between the toe end extension and rear end extension, and rear end extension and heel end extension of the first component. in other embodiments, the sole portions formed lay the second component (200) can comprise a circular shape, square shape, oval shape, any other polygonal shape, or a. shape with at least one curved surface, complementary to the sole portions of the first component (100). The second component (2011) inay CA:mtprise a single monolithic piece, entire]) formed togetlJer svith nO further joining necessary. For eisample, tiro second component (200) ecrai be formed by injecti(an molding a sin& monolithic piece comprising a single material.
[001491 Alternately, the second component (200) ncomprise a plurality of separately formed portions, -which nary be subsequently permanently joined by adhesives, sonic welding, fusion bonding, or other permanent joining, methodologies appropriate to the materials used in funning the plurality of separately formed portions. !for example, the second component crown portion (205), foe portion (212), and heel portion (214) may be formed separately from the same or different materials. The second component portions may then he adhesively joined to form the complete second component (200). Such forming, of separate portions later joined may be advantageous when using materials such as hi-directional carbon fiber prepreg materials. Bi-directional carbon Fiber prepreg does not easily accommodate certain small curvatures, and cannot be easily formed in a single piece to arrive at the desired second component 200 geometry. Using such a material may produce a need to form separate sole portions (212) and (214), which are later joined by adhesives or other methods to the rest of the second component (200).
[001501 Alternately, multiple second component portions may be separately attached to the first component, without having been attached to one another.
100151-1 The second component 1)1 the gc,lf club head.100) can comprise a thickness. The thickness of tile second component can range from 0.030 inch to 0.500 inch. fn sonic embodiments, th e thickness of the second component can range From 0.030 inch to 0,040 inch, or 0,030 inch to 0.045 inch, or 0 030 inch to 0.055 inch. or 0,045 inch to 0.055 inch, 0.045 inch to 0.65 inch, 0.050 inch to 0.060 inch, 0.055 inch to 0.065 inch, 0.060 inch to 0.070 inch, 01)65 inch to 0.075 inch, 0.070 inch to 0.080 inch, 0.075 inch to 0.085 inch, 0.080 inch to 0.090 inch, 0.085 inch to 0.095 inch, 0.080 inch to 0.090 inch, 0.085 inch to 0.095 inch, 0.090 inch to 0.100 inch, 0.100 inch to 0.200 inch, 0.200 inch to 0.300 inch, 0.300 inch to 0.400 inch, or 0.400 inch to 0.500 tnch. ['or exampte, the thickness of the second component can be 0.008 inch, 0.010 inch, 0.015 inch, 0.020 inch, 0.025 inch, 0.030 inch, 0.035 inch, 0.040 inch, 0.045 inch, 0.050 inch, 0.055 inch, 0.060 inch, or 0.065 inch. The thickness or the second component can further vary-from the crown, the sole, the heel end, the toe end, and the trailing edge. For example, in a cingle embodiment, the thick:JOSS oF the SCCOnd component may differ across the crown, sole, heel end, tot end, and tt'aiIirlg edge portions of the second coinponcia.
1001521 Tn some emboclin re he second component further con:wises internal ribs or an internal thicket] section. As used hen when2 ti Mg to internal ribs or an internal thickened section. the present disclosure is intending to refer to a portion of the club body that has a varying internal surface contour which presents a thickness (measured normal tt.) the outcr surface of the component) that is comparatively-thicker than a second, non-thickened area of the component. In each instance, the ten-n "internal' is intended to n-ittan that the Feature not readily perceivable from the outside of the club head. Said another way, the outer surface maintains a. plain or substantial:y plain contour across die feature and adjacent structure.
53] Internal ribs or:internal thickened sections may provide adclitiorcRl strength and/or stit tness to the club head through various mechanisms. First, the thickened ribs/sections may act as a stall t/p,usset that prtystides a structunu Framework for the component. In this manner, the design of the structure itself can promote strength. .A.ddi homily, the presence of the thickened. section may be used during molding to assist M. controlling the direction, speed, and uni fortuity of the polymer flow. In doing so, the orientation of embedded fibers may be controlled so that any anisotropic parameters of the material, itselt are oriented to support the club head's intended purpose, In this sense, the thicked sections can provide both an engineered structure and an engineered material. Finally, in some embodiments, the first component may include a buttressing feature such as an upstanding strut that: is configured to he affixed to the second component. In such a design, the thickened sections may provide a suitable coupling location as the thickened material may distribute any transmitted loads without the risk or Fatiguing or fracturing the comparatively thinner sections.
[00154] in some embodiments, such he embodiment of FIG. 3, the second component (200) Farther comprises a plurality of second component reduced thickness sections (250) having one or more crown portion reduced thickness sections (255) and one or more sole portion reduced thickness sections (237). The second component (200) further comprises a plurality of second component internal ribs (260) having one or more crown portion internal ribs (262) and one or more sole portion internal ribs (264). The plurality of internal ribs (260) may be two ribs, three ribs, four ribs, five ribs, or more than five ribs. The crown portion (262) and sole portion (264) internal ribs are between the second component reduced thickness sections (250). The crown portion (262) and sole. portion (264) internal ribs may comprise the greatest thickness of the second component (200). In some embodiments, the second component internal ribs (260) can be similar to the ribs as described in U.S, i\ppl, No. 15/076,511, now U.S. Patent No. 9,700,768, which is hereby incorporated by ref-chem.:: in its entirety. The second component internal ribs (260) can reduce stress on the golf club head (100) and improve sound during an impact.
[001551 The plurality of second component reduced thickness sections (250) comprise a thickness. The thickness of the plurality of second component reduced thickness sections (250) Can range from 0.008 inch to 0.035 inch. In other embodiments, the thickness of the reduced thickness sections (250) can range from 0.008 inch to 0.015 mull, 0.010 inch to 0.020 inch, 0.015 inch to 0.025 inch, 0.020 inch to 0.030 inch, or 0.025 inch to 0.035 inch. For example, the thickness of the reduced thickness sections (250) can be 0.008 inch, 0,010 inch. 0.015 inch, 0.020 inch, 0.025 inch, 0.030 inch, or 0.035 inch. The thickness of the internal ribs or thickened portions may he up to 0.010 inch thicker than other portions of the second component (200). fn some embodiments, the second component is devoid of internal ribs and reduced thickness sections.
1001561 In yet another embodiment such as genet:111,y, shown in FIG. 3B, the second component comprises a central thickened section (270) that is surrounded by a crown portion reduced thickness sections (255) having a comparatively smaller thickness. In one configuration, this central thickened section (270) has total area of from about 1.5 if to about 3.0 inh in another configuration, this central thickened section (270) has a total area of from about 2.0 in: to about 2.5 in'. In some embodiments, the central thickened section (270) has a slightly trapezoidal shape, whereby at least a tit r F the thickened (270) that is closer to the Lice and/or forward edge (271) is wider than a portion (276) of the thickened section (270) that is more distant from the face. Such a width dimension is preferably taken parallel to a horizontal trudline of the thce that extends between the heel and toe portions of the club head. As tbrther shown, the central thickened section (27( ) may be spaced from the forward edhe (274) by a distance (ei.) that is greater than about 0.8 inch, or a distance that is between 0.8 inch and 1.0 hick, or between 1.0 inch and 1.2 inch, or between 1.2 inch and 1.1 inch. In some embodiments, the distance (d) is approximatelv 1.25 inch.
100157,1 In some embodiments (not depicted), the second component can further conliinse front thickened strip that runs along the perimeter or frativard edge (274) of die second component 200) 'this thickened strip can comprise a thickness equal to the thickness of the trailing edge. portion (230) and/or the central thickened section (270). the front thickened strip provides structural shiftless to the forward edge (274). There can be thickness transition region between the front thickened snip and the crown portion reduced thickness sections (255) to ease stress transfer across the crown. Inc second component comprises a mass percentage of the overall mass of the golf club head (100). The mass percentage of the second component can range front tia, to 15% of the overall mass of the golf club head (100), or can he approximately 10 grar s to ri attimi In other embodiments, the mass percentage of the second component can range from 4% to 15 1ii. For example, the mass percentage of the second component matt be 4%, 56.1), 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, or 15% of the overall mass of the golf club head (100), (001581 I he se. id component comprises a outer surface area ranging from 17 inchito 25 inch'.
In some embodiments, the surfUce area of the second component can range from 15 inchi to 27 inch, 15 inchi to 18 inchi, 18 inch2to 21 inc112. 21 inchi to 25 inchi. For example, the surface area of e second component can be 15 inch'', 17 inch'', 19.inchi. 21 inch'', 23.inclai, or 25 inchi.
1) Second Component Materials [00159] 'the second component (200) comprises a less dense material than the material of the first component. In some embodiments, the second component can comprise a composite formed from polymer resin and reinforcing fiber. The polymer resin can comprise a thermoset or a. therinoplastic. The second component (200) composite can be either a Etiled thermoplastic (FT) or a fiber-reinforced composite (FEIC). in some embodiments, the second component (200) can comprise a FT bonded together with a FR.C. Filled thermoplastics TT) a.re typically injection molded into the desired shape. As the name implies, filled thermoplastics (El) can comprise a thermoplastic resin 1 mnctoirilv oriented, non-continuous fibers. In contrast, fiber-reinforced composites (lit(1s) are formed from resin-impregnated (prepreg) sheets of -ontinuous fibers. Fiber-reinforced composites (FROi) can comprise either thermoplastic or thermoset resin.
1001601 in embodiments with a thernaoplastic resin, the resin can comprise a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPII) or a thermoplastic elastomer 1)1tiA. For example, the resin can comprise polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyetheretheretherketone ()PEEK), polyinaldes, polyamides such as P A6 or 17;k66, polvamide-inaides, olaaphemlene sulfides (PPS), polvearbonates, engineering tiolyurettiancs, and/or other similar materials. Although strength and weight arc We evai m-properties under consideration for tiie composite matt:lab a suitable composite material maa also exhibit secondary benefits, such as acoustic properties. In some embodiments, PI15 and PEEK are desirable because they emit a generally metallic-sounding acoustic response when the club head is impacted.
[001611 the reinforcing fiber can comprise carbon fibers (or chopped carbon fibers), glass fibers (or chopped glass fibers), praphine fibers (or chopped graphite fibers), or Any other suitable filler material. in other embodiments, the composite material may comprise any reinforcing filler that adds strength, durability, and/or weighting.
1001621 The density of the composite material (combined resin and ae which forms the second component (200), can range from about 1.15 glee to about 2.te g/cc. In some embodiments, the composite material density ranges between about 1.20 g/cc and about 1.90 g/cc, about L25 g/cc and about 1135 g/cc, about L30 g/cc and about 1.80 g/cc, about 1.40 g/cc and about 1.70 A /cc about 1.30 Air-And About I 40 gic-or about 1.40 giro to -bout 1.45 g 'Pc Filled Ilintnicip_14stiTc. (ET) 1001631 in a FT material, the polymer resin should preferably mcorpotate one or more polymers that have sufficiently high material strengths and/or strength/weight ratio properties to withstand typical use while providing a weight savings benefit to the design. Specifically, it is important for the design and materials to efficiently withstand the stresses imparted:luting an impact between the strike face and a golf 1)all, while not contributing substantially to the total weight of the golf club head. In general, the polymers can be characterized by a tensile strength at yield of greater than about 60 N[Pa (neat). When the polymer resin is combined with the reinforcing Fiber, the resulting composite material can have a tensile strength at weld of greater than about 110 MPa, greater than 3O about 180 Mlia, greater than about 220 INIR: greater that aboLit260 1\IPa, greater than bout 2.80 \VT, or greater than about 290 MPa. In some embodiments, suitable composite materials may have a tensile strength at yield of From about 60 NIPa. to about 350 NIPa.
1001641 In some embodiments, the reinforcing fiber comprises a plurality of distrifiT discontinuous fibers (i.e. "chopped fibers"). In some embodiments, the reinforcing fiber comprises a discontinuous clt-Tag fibers," having a designed fiber lent, tia or-from about 3 Film to 25 IT:M. IT; SOMe emlt,,tliments the disuontinuous 10ng Fibers" have a designed fiber length of From about 3 mm to 14 MITE. FOE' example, 1n some embodiments, the fiber length is about 12.7 mm (0 S inch) prior to the molding process, In another emhotliment, the reinforcing Fiber comprises discontinuous "short fibers,' hay* a designed fiber length of from about 0.01 nun to 5 mm. In either case (short or long fiber), it should be noted that the given lengths are the pre-rmixed lengths, and due to breakage during the rnolding process, some fibers mar actually be shorter than the described range in the final component. In some configurations, the discontinuous chopped fibers mat be characterized by an aspect ratio (e.g., length/diameter of the fiber) of greater than about 10, or more preferably greater 14 n about 50, and less than about 1500. Regardless of the specific type of discontinuous chopped fibers used, in certain configurations, the composite material may have a Fiber length of from about 0.01 min to about 25 mitt or from about 0.01 mm to about 14 mm, [001651 The contnostre material may have a polymer resin content Ot from about TO% to about 90% by weight or from about 55% to about 70% by weight. The composite material of the second component can have a fiber content between about 10% to about 60% by weight. In some embodiments, the composite material has a fiber content between about 20% to about 50% by weight, between 30'0 to 40% by weight. In some embodiments, the composite material has a fiber content of between about 10% and about 15!'0, between about 15% and about 20%, between about 20% and about 25 between about 25% and about 30%, between about 30% and about 35%, between about 35% and about 40%, between about 40% and about 15%, between about 45% and about 50%, between about 50% and about 35%, or 1, fiyeen about 53% and about 60% by weight, 100166] In embodiments where the second component (200) comprises a filled thermoplastic (Fl) material, the second embodiment (200) can be injection molded out of composite pellets comprising both the polymer resin and the reinforcing-fibers. The reinforcing fibers can be embedded vnthin the resin prior to the injection molding process. The pellets can be melted and injected into an empty mold to form the second component (200). The FT composite material can have a melting temperature of between ut 210 "C to about 280 "C. In some idiments, the composite material can have a melting teiripeliature of between about 250 t(C and about 270 "C.
100167] In embodiments with FT material second components (200), at least 50% of the fibers can be aligned roughly front-to-luck in a center region crown (110). In other words, the fibers can be aligned toughlv perpendicular to the striking Face (170). FT materials exhibit greatest strength in the direction of fiber alignment. Therefore, having the fibers oriented roughly Front-toback in the crown (110) can increase the durability of the club head in the front-to-rear direction. The fiber alignment can be correspond to the direction of material flow within the mold during the injection molding process.
[00168.] When the golf club head (100) strikes a golf bail, the impact can cause the mass at the rear end (180) of the rear extension (500) to displace vertically, in the Y-axis (192) direction. At impact, the sole portion rear extension (500) will bend upwards and exert stress on the second component crown portion (205). The crown portion is compressed between the first component rear extension (500) and a front portion of the first component (1300). Therefore, in embodiments with a FT second component (200), aligning the fibers with the direction of compression stress that eitpected at impact lowers he likelihood c4.-railure will tin Ilie composite second component (200).
[00169] In some embodimenti, the second component (200) ca I be formed from a long fiber reinforced TPU material (an example FT material). The long fiber ITU can comprise about 4011i, long carbon filser by weight. The long fiber rpu can exhibit a high elastic modulus, greater than that of short carbon fiber compounds. *4 he long fiber 'ITU can withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for use in a golf club head that is used and/or stored in a hot climate. 'the long fiber 'LPL fiirther exhibits a high toughness, allowing it to serve well as a replacement tbr traditionalltt metal components. In some embodiments, the long fiber TI3-14 comprises a tensile modulus between about 26,000 N1T'a and about 30,000 NIT'a or between about 27,000 1\11Pa and about 29,000 NIPa. In sOffle embodiments, the long fiber TPI1 comprises a flexural modulus between about 21,000 M Pa and about 26,000 Milta or between about 22,000 NIfla and 25,000 Mita. The long fiber TP141 rnaterial can exhibit an tensile elong2,tion (at break) of between about 0.5% and about 2.5%. In some embodiments, the tensile dongation of the composite TPU material can be between about 1.0% and about 2.0%, between about 1.2% and about 1.4%, between about 1.4% and about 1.6%, between about 1.6% and about 1.8%, between about 1.8% and about 2.0%.
tOafin.ced_Cpinposi [00170] in some embodiments, the second component (200) may comprise ed composite ([RU) materials. FRC nuterials generally include one or more layers of a urn-or multidirectional fiber fabric that extend across a larger portion of the polymer. Unlike the reinforcing fibers that may be used in filled thermoplastic (FT) materials, the maximum dimension of fibers used in FItCs may be substantially large iger than those used in FT materials, and may have suniciui it size and characteristics so they may be provided as a continuous fabric separate from the polymer. \\Then formed with a thermoplastic polymer, even if the p01V-(11(T is freely flowable when melted, the included continuous Fibers arc generally MDE. Tii c reinforcing fibers can comprise an areal weight (weight per length by width area) between 75 geltri2 and 150 g/m2.
[001711 ERG materials are generally formed by arranging the fiber into 2 desired arrangement, and then iirip.regnadng the fiber material with a sufficient amount of a polymeric material to provide rigidity. in this manner, while FT materials may have a resin content of greater dun about 43% by volume or more preferably greater than about 55% by volume. FRC materials desirably have a resin content of less than about 45% by volume, or more {)referably less than about 35% by volume. In some embodiments, the resin content of the FRC can be between 24% and 45% by volun it, 1001721 ERG materials traditionally use nvo-n. thernoser epoxies as the polymeric matrix, however, it is possibte to also use thermoplastic olymnersas the matrix. In many instances, ERG materials are pre-prepared prior to final manufacturing, and such intermediate material is often referred to as a prepreg. When a thermoset polymer is used, the prepreg is partially cured in intermediate form, and final curing occurs once the prepreg is formed into the final shape. When a thermoplastic polymer is used, the prepreg may include a cooled thermoplastic matrix that can subsequently be heated and molded into a final shape.
[001731 A FRG second component (200) be coniprise a plurality of:layers (\also called a plurality-of lamina). Each layer can comprise and/or be the same thickness as a prepreg. Each layer the plurality of layers can comprise either a uni-direcitunal fiber fabric (lin) or a multi-directional fiber fabric (sometimes called a weave) In some embodiments, the plurality of layers can comprise at least three UD lavers. The second and third lavers can be angled relative to a base layer. For a base layer oriented at 0 degrees, the second and thLrd layers can be oricmtcd at +/-45 degrees from the base layer. in some embodinacnts, the la,,,ers can be oriented at 0, +45, -15, +90, -90 in any suitable order. In sonic embodiments, the plurality of layers comprises at least one:1min-directional weave layer, typically positioned as the top layer to improve the appearance of the ERG second component (200).
Mixed-Material [001741 The second component (200.) may have a mixed-material construction that includes both a fiber-reinforced composite resilient layer and a molded thermoplastic structural layer. In some preferred embodiments, the molded thermoplastic structural layer may be formed from a filled thermoplastic material (rip. As described above, the FT can comprise a discontinuous glass, carbon, or aramid polymer fiber filler embedded throughout a thermoplastic material. The thermoplastic resin can be a 'ITU, such as, for example, polyhhenvicne still:hie (PPS), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), or a poltarnide such as PA() or PA66. The fiber-reinforced composite resilient layer can comprise a woven glass, carbon fiber, or aramid nolioncr fiber reinforc1n2: layer embedded in a polymeric resin (or ma trix).1.he pdynieric resin of the resilient laver can be a thermoplastic or a thermoset 100175] In some embodiments, the polymeric resin of fiber--reinforced composite resilient layer is the same thermoplastic material as the resin of the molded thermoplastic structural layer. In other words, the fiber-reinforced resilient layer and the molded structural layer can comprise a common thermoplastic resin. Forming the resilient and structural layers witli a common thermoplastic resin allows For a strr,ncz chemical bond between the layers. In these embodiments, the resilient and structural layers can he bonded without the use of an intermediate adhesive. In one particular embodinlent, the second component (200) resilient layer can comprise a woven carbon fiber fabric embedded in a polyphenvIene sulfide (PPS), and the second component (200) structural layer can comprise a filled polvphenylene sulfide (PPS) polymer. In alternate embodiments, the second component (2.00) can be extruded, injection Now moided,13.-D printed, or any other appropriate forminsi-means.
Cross Connecting Members [00176] In alternate embodiments, the second component (200) may lace one or more interior cross connecting members (not shown). The cross connecting members may provide additional structural stiffness or sound control. the interior cross connecting members can comprise members that connect non-adjacent portions of the interior of the second component (200). For 34.
exarnpie, the cross connecting embers may connect the it tent. ce of the second component crown portion (205) to one of the second component sole portion heel portion (211), or the second component sole portion toe portion (212). The interior cross connecting members may comprise a length that extends entirely from an interior surface of a front most edge of die second component (2011) to the second component trailing edge portion (2.30) interior surbtce, or the interior cross connect members nlay comprise a length that does not extend entirely from an interior surface of a front most edge of the second component (200) to the second component trailing edge portion (230) interior surface. The interior cross connecting members comprise a thickness. The thickness of interior cross connecting members can range from 0.01 inch to 0.25 inch. liar example, the thickness of interior cross connecting members may be (101 inch, 0.03 inch, 0.10 inch., 045 inch, 0.20 inch, or 0.25 inch.
II) Second Embodiment of Golf Club Llead (Including a Weight Channe) 1001771 A second einbodiment of a golf club head (2100), illustrated in h1G. 17 comprises first component (2300) with a weight channel and a second component (2200) that joins onto the first component c2300). The first comp( merit (2303) of gtdirchils head (2100) ran be similar to the first component (300) of golf club head (100), with the exception of the weight system. The second component (2200) of golf club head (2100) can be similar to the second component of golf club head (100), described above. The golf club head (2100) forms a striking face (2170), a striking. litre return (2177), a hosel (2140), a crown (2110), a. sole (2120), a heel end (2160), a toe end (2150), 'a skirt (2125) with a trailing edge (2130) it a rear-most portion of a rear end (2180), and a sole portion hosel adaptor attachment recess (2195).1.11e skirt (2125) can extend along-a perimeter of the club head between the crown (2110) and the sole (21 behind the hosel (2140).
First Component I.00178.1 As illustrated in FIG. 18, the first co iponent (2300) can comprise a roar extension (2500). 'the rear extension (2500) can comprise a portion of the sole (2120). The rear extension (25(0) comprises a weight channel (2540). The weight channel (2540) is exposed at the rear end (2180) and sole (2120) of the club head (2300).
1001791 The weight channel (2540) is configured to receive a movable we t 30) in one of three positions. The weight (2350) can be secured to the weight channel (2540) by a threaded fastener (2320). The weight (2350) can be placed in a toe-side position, a central position, or a heel-side position. Tue weight channel (2540) comprises a mounting wall (2542) and a sole will (2530).
The mounting w 342) can he oriented approximately perpendicular to the sole (2120). The sole wall (2550) can be oriented approximately parallel to the main sole (2120), but inset bv a distance equal to a height or the mounting wall (2542). 'The movable weight (2350) can comprise an elongate, trapezoidal shape, or any other suitable weight. The movable weight (2350) can corniprise a inward wall and a connecting wall. 'he inward wall lies flush against the sole wall (2550) of the weight, channel (2540). The connecting wall lies Hush with the mounting wall (2542) when the weight (2350) is attached in one of the three positions.
[00180] The movable weight (2350) mass can range 1 0 grain to 35.0 grams. For example, the movable weight (2350) rnass may he 1,0 gnun, 1.5 gr2uns, 2.0 grams, 3.0 grams, 4.0 grams, 3.0 grams, 6.0 grams., 7.0 gr2uns, 8.0 grams, 9.0 grams, 10.0 grams, A.0 grams, 12.0 grams, 13.0 grams, 14.0 gninis, 15.0 qt nu 16.0 greuns, 17,0 gfluns, 18.0 gratilS, 19.0 grams, 20.0 grams, 21 grams, 22 23 grams 24 giv.mc 75 grams 76 grams. ?rams 28 grams 79 grams,30 grams, 31 grams, 32 grams, 33 warns, 34 grams, or 35 grams. The concentrauon of mass within the weight channel (2340) at the rear end (2180) of the club head ca.n 5 trategicaily position the head center of gravity to iniprove the launch characteristics of the golf club.
[00181.1 'Pic mounting wail (2542) of the weight channel (2540) comprises three threaded apertures that correspond to the three weight positions. The mounting wall (2542) comprises a toe-side threaded aperture. 44), a center threaded aperture (2546), and a heel-side threaded aperture (2548). 'the movable weight (2350) is positioned in the toe-side position by placing the connecting wall of the weight (2350) flush against the mounting wall (2542) of the channel (2340) and securing the Fastener (2320) into the toe-side threaded aperture (2544). The movable weight (2350) is positioned in the centr:d position by placiiag the connechng wall of the weight (2330) tlutsh against the mcw ming wall (2542) of the channel (2540) and securing the fastener (2320) into the center threaded aperture (2546). The: movable weight (2330) is positioned in the heel-side position by placing the connecting wall of the weight (2350) Hash against the mounting wall (2542) of the channel (2540) and securing the fastener (2320) into the heel-side threaded aperture (2548).
1001821 When the movable weight (2350) is positioned in the central position, as illustrated in the sole view of 1:1G. 19A, die golf club (2100) is configured to otter no draw or fade bias. When the weight (2350) is positioned in the toe-side position, as illustrated in FIG. I 9B, the weight (2350) gives the club head a fade bias. When the weight (2350) is positioned in the heel-side position, as illustrated in 'MG. 19G, the weictht (2330) gives the club head a draw bias. When the weight (2350) , has a greater mass, the weight (2350) causes a greater fade or draw bias when positioned in the toe--side or heel-side positions, respectively. A larger separation distance between each of the toe-side, central, and heel-side positions can also increase die fade or draw bias, Therefore, in some embodiments, the mass of the movable weight (2350) can be balanced against the separation distance of the weight positions to achieve the desired shot bias.
i [00183] het-erring E m ti' and 21, hen the too Aghi (2350) s installed in thr t channel (2540), the movable weight (2350) can be offset from the sole wall (2550) of the weight channel (2.540) by a gap. The gap or offset distance (2557) can be measured as the shortest distance between the movable weight (2330) and the sole wall (2350). The offset distance (2337) can be between approximately 0.004 inch and 0.030 inch. In some embodiments, the offset distance (2537) is between approximately 0.004 inch and 0.010 inch, 0.006 inch and 0.010 inch, 0.008 inch and 0.012 inch, 0.010 inch and 0.014 inch, 1012 inch and 0)016 inch, 0,014 inch to 0.018 inch, 0.016 to 0.020 inch, 0.020 inch to 0.030 inch, 0.030 inch to 0,040 inch, or 0.040 inch to 0.050 inch. When the offset distance (2357) is larger, the movable weight (2350) can vibrate or oscillate up and down after the golf dub head impacts a golf ball. This oscillation can induce stresses in the Eistener (2320), threadeJ apertm-es (2344, 2546, 25,48), and/or benweight channd (25.40) which can cause dui-ability issues over time_ 100184-1 Reduk.in the ability of the movable weight (2350) to deflect vertically can duce stress by more than 10%, more than 20%, more than 30%, or more than 40%, compared to a similar design that allows vertical deflection of the movable weight (2350). In some embodiments, reduction of the vertical deflection of the weight (2350), results in approximately 40% less stress, according to a finite element analysis (FE-A) simulation. The vertical deflection (towards the crown or the sole) of the movable weight (2350) (_oi elates to the oscillation amplitude of the miniable weight (2330). The vertical deflection of the weight (2350) can be 'limited by the albrementioned offset distance (gap siiie) between the movable weight (2350) and the sole wall (2550). in some embodiments, to maintain durability by reducing vertical deflection of -the weight (2350), the offset distance must be less than 0.040 inch, less than 0.030 inch, less than 0.020 inch, less than 0.010 inch, less than 0,007 inch, less than 0.008 inch, less than 0.007 inch, less than 0.006 inch, or less than 0.005 inch.
[00185] The vertical deflection and oscillation or He wei;21it (2350) can ',asp be controlled b inserting heave duty tape (2558) such as very high bond (V1 113) tape between the movable weight (2350) and the sole wall (2550). The VI 113 tape (2558) can fill a majority or the gap. In some embodiments, the 1.711B tape (2558) tills the entire gap. The VIIB tape (2558) can reduce or eliminate the oscillation of the movable weight (2350).
[00186] [he first component (2300) comprises a sole portion rear extension (2500), a. striking face return crown pcation (2100), ai id a striking face return sole portion (2810). The striking face return sole portion (2810) comprises a heel extension (2830) and a toe extension (2820). The heel extension (2830) comprises a rear wall (2832). The toe extension (2820) comprises a rear wall (2822).
[00187] The first component rear externion (2500) comprise, a toe-side wall (2522) and a heel--side wall (2532) that connect the weight channel (2540) to the striking; face sole return (2810). The rear extension toe-side wall (2522) and the toe extension rear wall (2822) can form a toe-side wall <M91' (2850' The tre-rid-wail angle '2850) can ring-between 45 denr-e-and 180 degree-The rear extension heel-side wall (2532) and the heel extension rear wall (2832) Can form a heel-side wall angle (2855). The heel-side wall angle (2855) can range between 45 degrees and 180 degrees. In some embodiments, the toe--s;de wall angle (2850) is roughly equal to the heel-side wall angle In other embodiments, the toe-side wall angle (2850) and the heeTside wall angle. (2855) are different. in some embodiments, the toesside wall mcile (2850) and the heel-side wall angle (2855) are supplementary angles (their sum equals roughly 180 degrees). In these embodiments, He toe extension rear wall (2822) and the heel extension rear wall (2832) are located roughisi within the same pirate (the toe rear wall (2822) and the heel rear wall (2832) are roughly parallel when viewed from the sole), lior example, the toe-side wall angle be a acute angle, while the heel-side wall angle (2855) is a supplementary obtuse angle.
100188] Referring to FIGS. 19 and 22, some embodiments comprise obtuse toe-side and heel-side wall angles (2850 and 2853). Referring to FIG. 23, some embodiments comprise an/proximately 90 degree toe-side and heel-side wall angles (2850 and 2.855). Referring to FIG. 24, some embodiments comprise acute toe-side and heel-side wall angles (2850 and 2855). Embodiments with obtuse toe-side and heel-side wall angles (2850 and 2855) can distribute stress smoothly, rearward into tIte sole (2120). The obtuse angles can increase the strength of the sole (2120) and support the sole rear extension (2500). However, embodiments with acute angles can comprise a first component with a smaller mass than einhodirnerrts weth obtuse or 0 degree ariyJ embodiments with dtiLlte toe-side and heei--side wall arioJes (2850 and 2855) can allow ft weighting properties, such as a hiali MOT 1001891 The weight channel (2540) can fin outward beyond a main s of the rear sole extension (2500), as shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 19-21. In these embodiments, where the weight channel (2540) extends toe-ward and heel-ward, the rear extension toe-side wall (2522) and heel-side wall (2532) each have a 1Dend adjacent We weight channel (25404 In other en Lodi:Reins, such as is illustrated in FIG. 22, the rear extension toe-side wail (2522). and lied-side wall (2532) can be straight. Tn some embodiments, the rear UN tension toe-side wall (2522) can be parallel to the rear extension heel-side wall (2532). In some embodiments, the rear extension toe-side wall (2522) can be non-parallel to the rear extension heel-side wall (2532). The rear extension (2500) can extend from the return portion (2810) at different locations. This shift of the placement of the rear extension (2500) can affect how the rear extension (2500) is angled with respect to the retum portion (2810). A rear extension axis (2504) approximates a center of the rear extension (2500). The rear extension axis (2504) extends between a. front midpoint (2502) of the rear extension and the center threaded aperture (254-6) of the weight channel (2540). The front midpoint (2502) is located half way between a toe-side in Point (2824) and a heel-side intersection point (2834). 'The toe-side intersection point (2824) is the point at which the toe extension rear wall (2822) intersects and connects to the rear extension toe-side wall (2522). Similarly, a heel-side intersection point (2834) is the point at which the heel extension rear wall (2832) intersects and connects to the rear extension heel-side wall (2532). The toe-side and heel-side intersection points (2824 and 2834) can be located anywhere along a rear edge of the forward sole portion (2810). In some embodiments, the connection between the toe/heel extension rear wall (2822/2832) and the rear extension toe/heel-side wall (2522/25.32), respectively, is filleted, beveled, or chamfered.
100190] The sole rear es tension (2500) of the First component (2300) can be angled w -c)s iect to an intersection plane (2840). As illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 22-28 the intersection plane (2840) is coincident with the toe-side intersection point (2824) and the heel-side intersection point (2854). In some embodiments, intersection plane (2840) extends parallel tel the KY plane (191). In sonic embodiments, such as those of FIGS. 19-24, the rear extension (2500) extends straight rearward, such that the intersection plane (2840) and the rear extension axis (2504) form an approximately 90 degree angle when viewed from a sole view. In some embodiments, such as fir-it of '1GS. 25-28, the intersection plane (2840) and the rear extensic degrees.
pas (2504) intersect at an ariole that is not 90 1001911angle (2860) is measured (in the sole view) front the intersection plane (2840) to the rear extension axis (2504) on the toe-side of the rear extension axis (2504).:\ heel-side axis angle (2865) is measured (in the sole x.fic\-y) from the intersection plane (2840) to the rear extension axis (2504) on the heel-side of the rear extension axis (2504). The toe-side axis angle (2860) and the heel-side axis ang c (2865) are supplementary angles (adding to 180 degrees).
1001921 Referring to FIG. 25, in s,-4-fte embodiments, the rear extension is attached to the striking face sole return (2810) closer to the toe end (2150) of the club head (2100) than the heel end (2160) of the club head (2100). in these embodiments, the toe-side axis angle (2860) is greater than 90 degrees, and the heel-side axis angle (2865) is less than 90 degrees. 'the weight channel (2540) remains centrally located in the rear end (2180) of the golf club head (2100). Because of the location of the first component rear extension (2500), the second component (2200) can occupy a greater portion of the lied side of the sole (2120). More specifically, a second component heel sole portion (2214) can be greater than a second component toe sole portion (2212).
1001931 Referring; to FIG. 26. in some embodiments, the rear extension is attached to the striking face sole return (2810) closer to the heel end (2160) of the club head (2100) than the toe (2150) of the club head (2100). in this embodiment, the toe-side axis angle (2860) is greater than 90 degrees, and the heel-side axis angle (2865) is less than 90 degrees. The weight channel (2540) remains centrally located in the rear end (2180) of he golf club head (2100). Because of the location of component (2300) rear extension (2500), the second component (2200) can occupy a greater portion of the toe side of the sole (2120). More specifically, the second component toe sole portion (2212) can he greater than the second component heel sole portion (2214). The attachment position of the it extension cm alter the ',Weighting. and launch characteristics or the golf club head (2100).
1001941 Referring to FIGS. 27 and 28, in some embodiments, the rear extension can have a varvinc2; width. in these embodiments, the toe-side wall angle (28501 and the heel-side wall angle (2855) may not be supplementary angles (may not sum to 180 degrees). In some embodiments, both the toe-side and the heel side wall antIcs (2850 and 2855) may be acute angles, reducing the NvelgEtt of the first c(ampoilent ai -id allow 'nig gre:Iter perilnote:-weigh tiitg in ihe club ltea.d. otlicr embodiments, both the toe-side and the heel side wall angles (2850 and 2833) may be obtuse angles increasing the durability of the sole and simplifying manufacturing assembly of the golf club head (21(10).
1001951 The rear extension width (2507) is measu a heel to toe direction rear perimeter of the forward sole portion (2810). The rear extension width (2507) is less than ai C. width of the sole (2121 if tnt jolt-club (2100). The rear extension width (2507) can range from 25% to 85% of an entire w.idth of the sole (2120). The rear extension width (2507) may be 23%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45.%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80% or 85% of an entire \A' idth of the sole (2120). The width of the rear extension adjacent the weight channel (2540) can range between 1 inch to 2.3 inches. 'the rear extension width (8507) between the toe-side intersection point (2824) and the heel-side intersection porn (2834) can range between 1 inch and 5 inches. 'the rear extension width (25071 can be greater adjacent the weight channel (2540), as illustrated in FIGS. 27 and 28, or greater adjacent. the remm portion (2810).
[00196] Referring to FIGS. 37 and 38, theposition of the sole rear extension (2500) of the first component (2300) can also be understood in relationship to the striking face (2170) and the X, Y, Z coordinate systein. A rear ea tension angle (2508) can he measured, from the sole view, between the rear extension axis (2504) and the "CZ plane (193). in some embodiments, the rear extension axis (2504) can intersect the YZ plane (193) adjacent the rear end (2180) of the club head (2100). In other embodiments, the rear extension axis (2504) can intersect the YZ plane (193) at a point between the return portion (2177) and the rear end (2180) of the golf club head (2100). The rear extension angle (2508) can range from 0 degrees to 43 decrees. In some embodiments, the rear extension angle (2508) can range from 0 to 10 degrees, 0 to 20 degrees, 0 to 30 degrees, 0 to 40 degrees, 10 to 20 degrees, 10 to 30 degrees, 10 to 40 degrees, 10 to 45 degrees, 20 to 30 degrees, 20 to 40 degrees, 20 to 43 degrees, 30 to 40 degrees, or 30 to 43 degrees.
[90197] Tr: the embodiment cfFIG. 37, the rear extension axis (2504) intersects the 17 plane (193) adjacent or at the rear end (2180) of the club head (2100). A front end of the rear extension (2500) is positioned closer to the heel end (2160) than the toe end (2150). Ii shifting the front end of the rear extension (2500), the CG and 1\101 of the club head (2100) is affected because the first component (2300) comprises a higher density than the second component. Placement of more of the first component (2300) within a heel end (2160) of the club head (2100) increases the mass within the heel end (2160) of the club head (2100).
[00198] In the embodiment of FIG. 38, the rear extension axis (2501) intersects the YZ plane (193) adjacent or at the rear end (2180) of the chili head (2100). A front end of the rear e:.:terision (25001 is positioned closer to the toe end (2150) than the heel end (2160). Placement of more of the first component (2300) within a toe end (2150) of the club head (2100) increases the mass within the toe end (2150) of the club head (21(0).
[00199] Referring to H(11. 39, in some embodiments, the rear edge (2410) of the return portion (2177) can be angled with respect to the XY plane (191). In some embodiments, the rear edge (2410) can be aligned with the intersection plane (2810).1:3 other embodiments, the rear edge (2410) is at least partially curved or angled so that it does not fully align with the intersection plane (281.0). In some embodiments, as illustrated in Ii1G. 40, portions of the rear edge (24.10) can be parallel to the Xi plane (191), while the intersection plane (28-40) remains angled with respect to the XI plane (191). A rear edge angle (2411) can be defined between the intersection plane (1,2845) and the Xi plane (191). The rear edge angle (2411) can range from 0 degrees tr.) 15 degrees. In some embodiments, the rear edge angle (2411) can range from 0 degrees to 10 degrees, 10 degrees to 2.0 degrees, 20 degrees to 30 degrees, or 30 degrees to 45 degrees. Angling the rear edge (2410) places more mass in either the heel end (2160) or toe end (2150) of the club head (2100).
100200] Referring to FIG. 40, in some embodiments, a r'ortion of the rear edge (21-10) is offset from the remainder of the rear edge (2410). For example, a portion of the rear edge (2.410) on the toe-ward side of the rear extension (2300) (hereafter "rear edge toe-ward portion (2412r) can he further forward than a second portion of the rear edge (2410) on the heel-ward side of the rear extension (2500) (hereafter "rear edge heel-ward portion (2413)"9-. The rear edge toe-ward portion (2412) can be offset from the rear edge heel-ward portion (2413) bv a. distance (2414). In the embodirnent illustrated tn11111. 10, the rear edge heel-ward portion (2113) is ot [[set a distance: (2141) reamvards from the rear edge toe-ward portion (2112). In. other embodiments, the rear edge toe-ward portion (2412) can be offset rearwards from the heel-ward portion (.2413). in yet other embodiments, the rear edge (2410) of the return pi*irrion (2177) can be arcuate, parabolic, tapered, or shaped to contribute to specific mass properties and/or impact durability of the First component (2300). 1-2
Seem d component 100201 As illustrated in FIGS. 29 and 30, the second component comprise a crown portion (2205), a trailing edge portion (2230), a sole toe portion (2212), and a sole heel portion (2214). The crown portion (2205) connects the sole toe portion (2212) and the sole heel portion (2214). The trailing edge portion (2230) connects the crown portion (2205) to the sole toe and lied portions (2212 and 2214). The crown portion (2205), sole toe portion (2212) and sole heel portion (221,f) define a rear cutout (2240) in the sole side or the second component (2200). In SOITIC ernbodimunts, such as the one illustrated in FIG. 29, the rear cutout 2240 cuts into the sole Only. In other emi iiiinents, such as the one illustrated in FIG. 30, the mar cutout 2240 cuts into both the sole and the crown portion (2205). The embodiment that cuts into both the sole and the crown portion (2205) allows more ronal in the rear end (2480) of th, club head (2100) for the weight channel (2540) of the first component (2300).
100202] 'the second component sole toe portiun (2212) and sole heel portion (2214) can be dimensioned to correspond to the dimensions of the first component (2300), as illustrated in FIGS. 22-28. For example, the second component sole toe portion (2212) can be roughly the same size as the sole heel portion (2211) \Then the rear e\ tension (2500) is centrally located, such as in the embodiments of FIG. 22-24. In embodiments where the rear extension axis (2504) is angled with respect to the intersection plane (2840), the sok tee portion (2212) can be either smaller or larger than the sole heel Portion (2214), as illustrated in the embodiments of PIGS. 25 and 26.
[00203] in sonic embodiments, the second cc ponent (2200) can be secured to the first component (2300) in away similar to that described above for the first golf club head (100) embodiment. in some embodiments, the materials of the first (2300) and second (2200) components can also be similar to those described above For the first golf club head (100) embodiments.
) 'Third Embodiment of Golf Club Head (Includes a Crown Brace and a Split Second Component) 1002041 A third embodiment of a golf club head (3100), illustrated in FIGS. 37-41, and Figure 53, comprises a first component (3300) and a second component (3201.)) that joins onto the first component (3300). The tirs.t component (3300) comprises a sole rear extension (3500) and a crown brace (3560). The first component (3300) of third embodiment golf club head can be similar to the first components (300 and 1300) of golf citim heads (100 and 2100), with the exception of the added crown brace (3560). The second component (3200) can comprise a tot portion) and a heel ooruon (3214). The toe and heel portions (3212 and 3214) can be separate parts. With the exception of the two-part design, the second component (3200) of Of club head can he sirnilar to the second components (200 and 22001 of golf club head (1110 and 2100). The golf club head limns a striking face (3170), a retool portion (3177), a hose n (3110), a sole (3120), a heel end (3100), 3 toe end (3150), and a skirt (3125) having a trailing edge (3130) at a rear-most-portion of a rear end (3180). The skirt (3125) can extend along a perimeter of the club head between the crown (3110) and the sole (3120), behind the hosel (3140).
[00205] Referring to FIGS. 40 and 41, the second component tot portkm (3212) can comprise a tot portion central edge (3220) configured to be positioned along the central portion of the crown (3110) when the golf club head is fully assembled, a toe portion maximum crown width (3222) measured from the toe portion central edge (3220) toward the toe end (3150), and a toe portion maximum crown length (3224) measured from a front end toward the rear end; The second component heel portion (3214) can comprise a heel portion central edge (3216) Configured to be positioned along the central portion of the crow II (3110) when the golf club head is fully assembled, a heel port-ion maximum crown width (3217) measured from the heel portion central edge (3216) toward the heel end 0160), and a heel portion maximum crown length (3218) measured from front end toward the rear end.
[00206-1 the toe portion (3212) and heel portion (3214) may have maximum 4 and 3218) that are the same. Alternately, the toe portion (3212) and heel portion (3214) may have maximum lengths (3224 and 3218) may vary such that one is larger than the other. The toe portion (3212) and heel portion (3214) may have maximum widths (3222 and 3217) that are the same. Alternately, the toe portion (32 I 2) and heel portion (3211) may have maximum widths (32.22 and 3217) may vary such that one is larger than the other. The maximum lengths may be between 3.0 inches and 6.0 inches. The maximum lengths may 1,:* 3.0 inches, 3.1 inches, 3.2 inches, 3.0 inches, 3.4 inches, 3.5 inches, 3.6 inches, 3.7 inches, 3.8 inches, 3.9 inches, 4.0 inches, 4.1 inches, 4.2 inches, 4.3 inches, 4.4 inches,4,5 inches, 4.6 inches, 4,7 inches, 4.8 inches, 4,9 inches, 5,0 incises, 5.1 inches, 5.2 inches, 5.3 inches, 5.4 inches, 3.3 inches, 5.6 inches, 5.7 incises, 5,8 inches, 5.9 incheS, or 6.0 inches.
[00207] As Alit:a-rated in FIGS. -39., the First component (3300) of the third enibodimei it can moris-linth a sole rear extension (3500' and a crown brace (3560). Tba sote -car extension (3500 houses a weight channel (3540) at the rear end (31B0). The crown brace, (3560) attaches to a tbraard crown poi on (3400) and the sole rear extension (3500, The crown brace (3560) attaches to the sole rear extension (350(J) adjacent the weight channel (3540) at the rear end (3180) of the club head. As illustrated in NG. 39, the crown brace (3560) and the weititht channel (3540t of the rear extension (3500) can form a hammerhead shape. In other embodiments, the shape of the crown brace (3560) and rear extension (3500) connection can be fi Meted, rounded, or otherwise shaped.
[002081 the cr wit brace (3560) can provide support to prevent the sole rear extension (3500) from bending too far upwards when the golf club head Mipacts a coif ball. Since the weight channel (3310) houses a movable weight (3350), the weight channel (3540) holds a significicant amount of mass. The mass of the wettiht channel (3340) and the weight (3350) are supported by-the sole rear extension (3500). However, an impact with a golf ball can cause the weight channel (354(J) portion of the rear extension (3500) to bend upwards. This upwards bending of the rear extension (350(70 can cause compressive stresses within the crown (3110). in some embodiments, these stresses can cause failure or cracking-within the second component (3200) that forms the majority of the crown )111it crown brace (3360) can provick supptiTt that prevents the stress-causing tiending or clamshell effect) of the sole rear extension (3500). In other words, the crown brace (3560) can reduce the vibration and oscillation of the weigjh t channel (1 [00209] an some embodiments, the sole rear extension (3500) and the crown brace (356(J) can together be angled, similar to the manner in which the sole rear extensions (5(10 aand 2500) of the 901 'club heads (100 and 2100) are angled. In some embodiments, the crown brace (356(J) is positioned at an angle different than the angle of Me sole rear extension (3500).
[00210] Referring to figure 39, the crown brace (3560) comprises a crown brace longitudinal axis (1563). inc crown brace longitudinal axis (3565) bisects the crown brace (3560) along its maximum length. in some embodiments, the crown brace longitudinal axis (3565) can be onset toward the heel end or toe end of the golf club head parallel to the rear extension axis (2504), or, alternately, non-parallel to the rear extension axis (,25(J4) such that crown brace longitudinal axis (3565) forms an acute anOt, to the rear extension axis (2504).
[002.1 1lie en nun mice (3360) can CiA-uprise a eedge (3362) and a heel-side edge ( 64).
The crown brace (3560) can comprise a wit, (3561), measured from the toe-side edge (3562) to the heel-side edge (3564). crown brace width (3560 can range between 0.05 inch and 0.8 inch. In some embodiments, the crown bract widtl (3561) can range between 0.05 inch and 0.1 inch, OA inch and 0.2 inch, 0.2 inch and 0.4 inch, 0.3 inch and 0.3 inch, 0.3 inch and 0.6 inch, or 0.4 inch and 07 inch. In some embodiments, the crown brace width can be approxitrutelv 0.2 inch, 0.25 inch, 0.3 inch, 0.35 inch, 0.4 inch, 0.45 inch, 0.5 inch, 0.55 inch, 0.6 inch, 0.65 inch, 0.7 tuck 0.75 inch, or 0.8 inch. The crown brace width (3561) can affect or determine the mass of the crown brace (3560). To preserve discretionary mass, the crown brace (3560) can be designed to weigh less than 0.6 g, less than 0.5 g, less than 0.1 g, less than 0.3 g, less than 0.2 g, or less than 0.1 g.
[00212] Referring to FIGS. 40 and 41, the two portions of the second component (3200) can each comprise portions of the crown (3110), the sole (3120), and the trailing edge (3130). 'The toe portion (3212) can be configured to fit over and secure to a perimeter lip or ledge of the first component (3300) (not illustrated). In particular, the toe portion (3212) can be configured to engage the rear extension toe-side wall (3522) and overlap the crown brace toe-side wall (3562). The heal portion (3214) can he configured to engage the rear extension heel-side wall (3532) and overlap the crown brace heel side wall (3564).
[00213] Since the second component (3200) comprises two separate portions (3212. and 3214), the second component: (3200) can he assembled onto the first component (3300) in two steps. For example, the toe portion (3212) can be slid onto the first component (3300) in a toe-to-heel direction first. The heel portion (3214) can be separately slid onto the First conmonent (330(1) in a heel-to-toe direction. The firs r component (3300) can have more complex geometry because the second component (3200) can be assenibled onto the first component from tlic heel and toe sides, as described In more detail below. The materials of the first (3300) and second (3200) components can be sirnilar to those described above f..)r. the first g iii club head (100) embodiment.
[00214] When the two second component portions (3212 and 3211) are: assembled onto the first component, the two portions (3212 and 3214) can be positioned to completely cover the crown brace (13560). Fully covering the crown brace (3560) can ensure a strong bond b'tith between the two portions (3212 and 3214) and the first component (2300). The two portions (3212 and 3214) can be positioned sudi that no portion of the crown brace (3560) is exposed to an exterior of the golf club head.
[00215] In an alternate enabiyiirnlat the club head (3100) can he formed w.thour tht CITOWn brace (3560), while stall comprising the two second component portions (32.12. and 3214). The two second component portions (3212 and 3214) may comprise central edge interior extensions, by which the component portions (3212 and 3:214) arc connected. The interior extension may extend along the entire central edge of each portion, or may extend along only a portion of the central edge of each portion. The interior extensions may extend inwardly, toward the golf club head interior, parallel to each other and approximately parallel to the 1-axis. The heel portion (3214) may have an heel portion interior extension (323.4). the toe portion (3212) may have a toe portion in tenor extension (3232). The interior extensions may each have an interior extension length between 0.1 inch and. 1,0 inch. The interior extension length may be 0.1 inch, 0.2 inch, 0.3 inch, 0.4 inch, 0.5 inch, 0.6 inch, 0.7 inch, 0.8 inch, 0.9 inch, or 1.0 inch.
[00216] Referring to Figure 42, in some embodiments the interior extei (3237 and 3234) may positioned to abut: one another when the golf club head is assembled. The interior extension (3232 and 3234) may be mechanically affixed to one another with mechanical fasteners or press fit fasteners, or they may be adhesively affixed via epoxies or other appropriate adhesives.
[00217] Tr: another alternate embodiment, the golf club head (3100) can be formed with a single, unitary second component, similar to the second components (200 and 2200) described above for the first and second embodiments (100 and 2100), rather than two separate second component portions. )11Pis alternate embodiment can comprise the crown brace (3560); which helps support the ivegh channel (3540) and the single second component 1V) Fourth Embodiment of Golf Club Elead (Including Two or More Braces) [002181 A fourth en-dm:lime:at or a golf club head (4100); amprises a first component (4300) and a second component (not shown) that joins onto the First component (4300). In this fourth embodiment, the first cornponent (1300) can have more than one brace, support, bridge, or span extending between a forward crown portion (4400) and the sole rear extension (4300). The braces can reduce the vibration and oscillation of the rear end of the club head; increasii-ig dull:ability. The second component (not shown) of the lbuirth embodiment, can be a. single, unitary second component, similar to second component (200 or 2200), or can be a split (divided) second component, similar to second component (3200).
[00219] The golf club head (4100) can lie similar to the golf club heads (100, 2100, and 31) described ahoy.4.411c:ugh the full golf club head (4100) is not shown in FIGS. 43-36, the golf club head (4100) can form the same components as the golf club heads (100, 2100, and 3100) described above. The golf club head (4100) harms a striking face (4170, sitnilar to 170, 2170, 3170), a return portion (similar to 177, 2177, 3177), a hosel (4140, similar to 140, 2140, 3140), a crown (similar to 110, 2110, 3110), a sole (similar to 120, 2120, 3120), a heel end (similar to 160, 2160, 3160), a toe end (similar to 150, 2150, 3150), and a skirt (similar to 123, 2125, 3125) having a trailing edge (sitni far to 130, 2130, 3130) at a rear--most portion of a rear end (4180, similar to 180, 2180, 3180).
[00220] As illustrated in hIGS. 43-56, the golf club head (4100) can cornpri rnponent (4300) with -various brace configurations. All variations of the first component:300) comprise the striking 70 a forward crown portion (4400), a forward sole portion (4810), and a sole rear extension (1-500) connected to the fotward sole portion (1810). The rear extension (1-500) can comprise a toe side edge (4522), a heel-side edge (4532), and a weight channel (4340) configured to allow the mounting of a movable weight (4350) at the trailing edge (4130) of the golf club head (4100). The weight channel (4540) and movable weight 0) can be similar, respectively, to the weight channels (2540, 3540) and movable weight (2350, 3330) of golf club heads (2100, 3100), as described above, priniarily with reference to [IC S. 17-21 and 41, llhe first COITEpOnen (4.3001 can also cornprise a peripheral lip (4450), which is offset inwards around the edges of the forward crown portion (1100), the forward sole portion (4810), and the sole rear extension (4500). The peripheral lip (4450) can be similar to a shelf and can act as a lap joint when the second component (42,00) is attached to the first component (4300). The braces can reduce impact-induced vibrations or oscillations of the weight channel (4540) at the rear end (4180), thereby reducing the stress experienced across the lap joint. Reducing the stress at the lap joint increases the durability of the lap joint bond and helps prevent del:1mi nation.
[00221] All the variations of the first component, (4300) can also comprise two or more braces (also called supports, bridges, spans, or connection members), The two or rivirt braces can provide stability to the weight channel (4540), reducing oscillations and vertical displacement of the rear weight channel after the golf club head (4100) inipacts a golf ball. ;The two or more braces can also increase the side-to-side rigidity of the rear extension (4500) of the first component: (4300)-.
P902221 in the variation illustrated in I1( 8. 43 and 44, the first component (4300) comprises toe skirt brace (4566) and a heel skirt brace (4568). The toe skirt brace (4566) can extend from the return portion to the rear end of the club head. More specifically, the toe skirt brace (4366) can extend front the forward crown and sole portions (4400 and 4-810) to the rear extension (4300) at the trailing edge of the club head (41(0). The toe skirt bra.ce (4566) and the heel skirt brace (4568) are configured to sit at the same level a.s a the peripheral lip (4430) of the first component,(4300). In other wards, the toe and heel skirt braces (4566 and 4568) can be Hush with the peripheral lip The second component (4200) can fit over and fully cover the toe and skirt braces (4566 and 4568) when the club head (4100) is assembled.
100223,1 In the variation illustrated in FTGS. 45 and 46, the first component (4300) comprises a toe skirt brace: (4566), a heel skirt brace (4568), and a central crown brace (4560). The toe skirt brace (4566) and the heel skirt brace (4568) can be similar to the toe and skirt braces (4366 and 4368), described above for the variation of FIGS. 43 and 44.1' he crown brace (4360) can be similar to the crown brace (3360), described above for golf club head (3100), illustrated in FIGS. 37-42. The central crown brace (4560) can extend from the forward crown portion (4400) to the rear extension (4300) at the trailing edge of the club head (4100). The central crown brace (4560) can be positioned approximately half way between thc toe end (415(4) and the heel end (4160) of the club head (4100). From a top view, such as FIG. 46, the central crown brace (4560) can be approximately perpendicular to the NY plane (191), The orientation of the central crown brace (4560) can approximately bisect the sole rear exte nsion (4500).
1002241 The variation illustrated in FIGS. 47 and 8 comprises a toe-side brace (4557) and a heel-side brace (4559), both connected to outer edges of the rear extension (4500). The toe-side brace (4557) can extend rearward from the forward crown portion (4400) and attach to the rear extension (4500) toe-side edge (4-522) at the trailing edge (4532) of the club head (4100). Similarly, the heel-side brace (4557) can extend rearward from the forward crown portion (4400) and attach to the: rear extension (4500) heel-side edge (-4532) at the: trailing edge: (4130) of the. club head (4100). "the toe-side and heel-side braces (4557 and 4559) can be attached to the forward crown portion (4400) at positions that roughly elivide the forward crow ii portion (4-400) into thirds, from a top In other words, from a top view, the toe-side and heel-side braces (4537 and 4559) are attached to the forward crown portion (4400) such that when measuring along a rear edge of the forward crown portion (4400): the distance between the toe end (4150) of the club head (4100) and the me-side brace (4557) is approximately equal to the distance between the toe-side brace (4557) and the heel-side brace (4559), which is also approximately et:I:dal to the distance between the heel-side brace (4559) and the heel end (4160) of the club head (4100).
[002251 The toe and heel-side braces (4557 and 4559) can be separated by a greater distinct towards the trailing edge. (4130) at the rear end (4180) of golf club head (4100), as illustrated in the top view of FIG. 48. From a top view, the toe and heel-side braces (4557 and 1559) can be within the footprint of the sole rear extension (4500).
1002261 The variation illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 50 comprises a toe-side brace (4557) and a heel-side brace (4559), both connected to a center of the rear extension (450(1). The toe-side and heel-side braces (4537 and 4559) can be attached to the forward crown p()iti()n (4400) at positions that roughly divide the forward crown portion (4400) into thirds, from a top view, ds described above for the variation of I'IGS. 47 and 48. However, in the variation of FIGS. 49 and 50, the toe-side and heel-side braces (4557 and 4559) are separated by a lesser distance towards the trailing (4130) at the rear end (41810 of the golf club head (4100). The toe-side brace (4557) can join with the heel-side brace (4559) prior to or at the connection with the rear extension (4500) at the rear end (4180). The toe-side and heel-side braces (-4557 and 4559) can form a V-shaped pattern from a top view, as illustrated in FIG. 30.
100227] The variation illustrated in FIGS. 51 and 52 comprises four braces: a toe-side brace (4557), a heel-side brace. (4559), a toe skirt brace (4566), and a heel skirt brace (4568). The toe and heel-side braces (4557 and 4559) of the FIGS. 51 and 52 variation can be similar to the toe and heel side braces of the FIG. 47 and 48 variation, described above. 'the toe and heel skirt braces (4566 and 4568) of the FIGS. .51 and 52 variation can be similar to the toe and heel skirt braces of the FIG. 43 and 44 variation, described above.
100228] 't he variatk)n illustrated in I:1GS. 53 and 54 cornp rises four 1)races: a toe-side brace (4557), a heel-side brace (4559), a toe skirt brace (4566), and a heel slur( brace (4368). The roe and heel-side braces (4537 and -1559) of the FIGS. 53 and 54 variation can extend from the forward crown portion (4400) to the rear extension (4500) at the trailing edge (4130) of ille club head rear end (4180). From a top view, the toe-side brace (4557) and the heel-side brace (4559) can be oriented roughly peTendicular to the ICe plane (191). In some embodiments, die toe-side and heel-side braces (4557 and 4559) can be aligned so that their top view footprint approximately follows the edges (4522 and 1532) of the sole rear extension (4500).
100229-1 Referring to FIGS. 53 and 54, ill some embodiments, in measuring alonfi, a rear edge of the forward crown portion (440 1), a &status,: between the toe 6.1,: (415(1) and the toe -side bract,. (4 557) can be less than a distance between the heel side brace (1559) and the heel end (4160). in other embodiments, when measuring along the rear edge of the forward crown portion (4100), a distance between the toe end (4150) and the toe-side brace (4557) can be approximately equal to a distance between the heel-side brace (4559) and the heel end (4160). Both the distance between the toe end (1150) and the toe-side brace (4557) and the distance between the heel end (4160) and the heel-side brace (4559) can be less than the distance between the toe-side brace (4557) and the heel-sidle brace (4559)- 1002301 The variation illustrated in FiGS. 55 and 56 comprises two crisscrossing braces: a first brace (.) and a second brace (1572). The first brace (4570) extends from a heel--side half of the forward crown portion (4100) to a toe-side half of the rear extension (1500) at the trailing edge (4-130) of the rear end (1180). The second brace (4572) extends from a toe-side half of the forward crown portion (4100) to a heel-side half of the rear extension (4500) at the trailing edge ell 31 the rear end (4180). The first and second brace (4570 and 4572) intersect and crisscross each other. in the illustrated embodiment of LTG. 56, the first and second brace (4570 and 4572) crisscross at approximately halfway between the forward crown p(iation (440(1) and the rear extension (4500) adjacent the Railing edge (4130). 'the crisscrossing braces (45.70 and15.72) can form an X-shape an hourglass shape when viewed from a top view. In some embodiments, the crisscrossing braces 570 and 45723-are shifted towards the toe end (1-150) or the heel end (4160) to achieve the desired structural support.
100-2311 Anvof the aforementioned braces can comprise a thickness. The brace thickness, measured from an outer surface-of the brace to an inner surface of the brace" can be between approximately 0.015 inch and 0.035 inch. In son K: embodiments, the brace illickness can be-0.015 inch, 0.016 their, 0.017 inch, 0.018 inch, 0.019 inch, 0.020 inch, 0.021 inch, 0.022 inch, 0.023 inch, 0.024 inch, 0.025 inch, 0.026 inch, 0.027 inch, 0.028 inch, 0.029 inch, 0.030 inch, 0.031 inch, 0.032 inch, 0.033 inch, 0.031 inch, or 0.035 Inch. The braces located on the crown (not the skirt braces) can comprise a width similar to the crown brace width (3561), described above for club head (3100).
[002321 Any of the aforementioned braces can comprise e crown brace width (3561), described above. The width of each brace ect or determine the mass of the brace. To preserve discretionary mass, the braces within the club head (4100) can be de/signed to together have a te hi weight that Is less than 0.6 in less than 0.5 g, less than 0.4 g, less than 0.3 g. less than 0.2 g, or less than 0.1 g. In some embodiments, the total weight of the braces equals 0.6 g, 0.5 g, 0.4 g, 0.3 g, 0.2 g, or 0.1 g. -fherclaare, in some cases, in embodiments haying more braces, the brace width can be less than the brace s7,7idth within embodlinents having less braces.
[00233] The two or more braces, described above, can increase the durability of the golf club head. More specifically, the braces can reduce the potential vertical oscillanon of the weight channel 0) of the sole rear CI,. tension (4500). The braces can also reduce sideways movement cif the weight channel (4540). Tn club heads lacking the herein described braces, the impact forces experienced when the golf club head (41.00) strikes a golf bail can induce vibration and oscillation of the rear extension because of the high concentration of weight within the weight channel and movable weight. A vertical displacement of the trailing edge. (4130) of the rear extension (4500) can be measured in simulations to quantify the potential osciallations. A higher vertical displacerrient at impact corresponds to a lower durability, since oscillations of a greater amplitude can cause material fatigue. The braces described above reduce the vertical displacement of the trailing edge (4130) at impact and thus increase the durability of the club head (4100).
[00234] The two or more braces, ehesenbec above, can define)11 11 darleS oropenings the first component (4300). The op enings can also be caul voids i oid of material, or empty regions. The two or more braces can define three; four, live, six, or more openings in the first component (4300). In the variation of FIGS. 43 and 44, the toe and heel skirt braces (.4566 and 4568) form part of a boundary of a crown opening, part of a boundary of a toe sole opening, and part of a boundary of a heel sole opening. The rear extension (4500) and the striking face return also form part of the boundary of the toe and heel sole openings. In the variation of FIGS. 45 and 46, the toe and heel skirt braces (4566 and 4568) and the forward crown portion (4400) surround and define two crown openings, separated by the central crown brace (4560). The variation of PIGS. 45 and 46 can have. toe and heel sole openings, similar to the variation of FIGS. 43 and 44.
(0023.51 in the variations of FIGS, 47 and 48, the toe and heel 'sidebraces (4557 and 4559) define a central crown opening and two side openings. The crown openings (-roc,: the skirt and each cover a portion of the crown and a portion or the sole. The variation of FIGS. 49 and 50 is similar, except that the central crown opening has an approximately triangular shape. Jr the variations of FIGS. 51-54, the braces define five openings. The skirt braces (4566 and 4568), crown braces (4557 and 4559), rear extension (4500), and forward crown portion (4400) define three crown openings.
The skirt braces (4566 and 4568), the striking face return, and the sole extension (4500) define a toe sole opening and a heel sole opening.
1002361 in the variation of FIGS. 55 and 56, the braces define six openings. The crisscrossing braces (4570 and 4572) define A front trianiThlar opening and a rear triangular opening. The forward crown portion (4400) and the crisscrossing braces form (1570 and 4572) form edges of the front triangular openiivi The rear extension (4500) and the crisscrossing braces form (4570 and 4572) form edges of the rear tt:rangill..ax opening. A. toe side crown opening and a heel side crown opening are formed between the central crisscrossing braces (4570 and 4572) and the toe and hod skirt braces (4566 and 4568). Additionally, the skirt braces (4566 and 4568), the striking Face return, and the sole extension (4500) define a toe sole opening anci a heel sole opening, [002371 During and just after impact with a golf ball, the rear weight (4350) and weight channel (4540) of the first component (4300) can deflect vertically relative to the remainder of the golf club head (4100). For a first component without any braces, a 30 gram to 35 gram rear weight (4350) can deflect over 0.3 inch, without the additional support of the second component (4200). For a first component (4300)with two or more braces a 30 gram to 35 Pram rear weight (4350) can deflect by a la-lax:mum oi between 0.03 inch and 0.20 inch, without the additional support of ihe second component (4200). In some cmlaodlnionts, thc rear weight (4350) can deflect by a maximum of between 0.03 inch and 0.06 inch, 0.04 inch and 0.07 inch, 0.05 inch and 0.08 inch, 0.05 inch and 0.10 inch, 0.10 inch and 0.15 inch, or 0.15 inch and 0.20 inch. In some embodiments, the rear weight (4350) can deflect by a maximum of about less than 0.3 inch, less than 0.2 inch, less than 0.18 inch, less than 0.16 inch, less than 0.14 inch, less than 0.12 inch, less than 0.10 inch, less than 0.08 inch, less than 0.06 inch, less than 0.04 inch. or less than 0.02 inch.
[00238] lin some embodiments, having two crown braces and no skirt braces, a 30 gram to 35 gram rear-weight (4350) can deflect (vertically relative Co the remainder of the club head) by a maximum of between 0.09 inch and 0.18 inch or between 0.10 inch and 0,15 inch, even without the additional support of the second component (4200). in some embodiments, having two skirt braces and no crown braces, the rear weight (4350) can deflect by a inx(irnurn of between 0.10 inch and 0.20 inch. In some embodiments, having two skirt braces and *at least one crown brace, the rear weight (4350) can deflect by a maximum of between 0.03 inch and 010 inch or by less than 0.10 inch, less than 0.08 inch, less than 0.07 inch, or less than 0.06 inch. In some embodiments, vanalions with parallel toe and heel side braces provide greater support (less deflection) than variations with criss ssing or angled (non-parallel) braces.
V) Fifth Embodiment of Golf Club Ilead [00239] A..ifth embodiment of a golf club head (5100), illustrated in FiGS. 53-56 comprises a first component (3300) with a weight channel (5510) and a sole aperture (5555), a sectmid component (5200) that joins onto the first component (5300), and a sole panel (5336) that cos ers the sole cavitv (5555) in the first component (5300). The first component (5300) of the fifth embodiment golf club head (5100) can be similar to the first components (300 and 1300) of gol club heads (100 and 21010, with the exception of the sole aperture (5555).*fhe second component (5200) of golf club head (5110 I) can be similar to the second component of golf club head (100), described above. The second component (5200) of golf club head (5100) can be similar to the second component of golf club head (100), described above. The golf club head (3100) forms a striking face (5170), A return portion (51 77), a hose] (5140), a crown (5110), a sole (5120), a heel end (5160), a toe end (5150), a trailing edge (5130) at a rear-most portion of a rear end (5180), a hose] (5110), and a sole portion hosel adaptor attachment recess (5195).
1002401 As illustrated M FIG, 57, the hest component (5300)) can comprise a rear extension he rear extension (5500) further comprises a toe side side span (5557) and a heel side span (5559). The toe side span (5557) extends towards and connects to the rear end (5180). The heel side span (5559) extends towards and connects to the rear end (51)0), opposite to the toe side span (5557). The toe side span (5557), heel side span (5559), rear end and return portion (5177) form the sole aperture (5555). The sole aperture (5555) functions to remove high density material of the First component (5300) towards the rear end (5180) of the first component (5300). sole aperture (5)53), further allows a different material sole panel (5556) to cover and seal the sole aperture (5553) to create a an:hi-material sole (5120), leading to increased MOT and improved sound characteristics.
[002411 the sole aperture (5555) can be any shape, however in most embodiments, the sole aperture (5555) is approximately rectangular. 'the sole aperture (5535) bends with general shape of the sole (5120). In some embodiments, the sole aperture (5555) can be scluare, rectangular, circular, ovular, ellipsular, triangular, polygonal, pentagonal hexagonal. trapezoidal, or any other desired shape.
[00242] The sole aperrure es a wiurh (5574) wherein the width (5574) is measured from the toe side span y5357) to the heel side side span (5559). In most embodiments, the sole aperture has a greater width, nearer the return portion (5177), than the aperture width nearer the rear end (5180). 'This characteristic helps remove as much high density mass from the center of the club head (510(i) as possible, allowing the mass to be redistributed rho the rear end (5180) of the club head (5100), However, in some embodiments, the sole aperture (5555) width can be al or uniform from the return portion (5177) to the rear (5180). Further still, in some embodiments, the sole aperture (5555) width can be greater near the the rear end (5180) than the aperture width near the return portion (5177).
1002431 'the sole aperture widths (5374) may be between 0.5 inch and 6.0 inches. 'the widths (5374) may he 0.5 inch, 0.6 inch, 0.7 Inch, 0.8 inch, 0.9 inch, 1.0 inch, 1.1 inches, 1.2 inches, 1.3 inches, 1.4 inches, 1.3 inches, 1.6 inches, 1.8 inches, 1.9 inches, 2.0 inches, 2.1 inches, 2.2 inches, 2.3 Inches, 2.4 inches, 2.3 inches, 2.6 inches, 2.7 inches, 2.8 inches, 2.9 inches, 3.0 inches, 3.1 inches, 3.2. inches, 3.0 inches, 3.4 inches, 3.5 inches, 3.6 inches, 3.7 inches, 3.8 inches, 3.9 inches, 4.0 inches, 4.1 inches, 4.2 niches, 4.3 inches, 4.4 inclics,4.5 inches, 4.6 inches, 4.7 inches, 4.8 inches, 4.9 inches, 5.0 inches, 5.1 inches, 5.2 inches, 5.3 inches, 5.4 inches, 55 inches, 5.6 inches, 5.7 inches, 5.8 inches, 5.9 'arches, or 6.0 inches.
[00244] hurdler, the sole aperture (5333) comprises a length (53wherein the length (5316) is measured from the return portion (5177) to the rear end (5180). In most embodiments, the sole aperture (5555) has an equal length near the heel side span (3559) to the length near the toe side span (3537). This characteristic helps keep the club head balanced in a. heel to toe direction. in some embodiments, the length near the heel side span (3559) can be less than the lette;th near the toe side span (5557), removing mass from the toe and placing more in the heel, in order to influence a draw or hook shot. In contrast, in some crnbodiments, the length near the toe side span (5557) can be less than the length near the heel side span (3559), removing mass from the heel and placing, more near the toe, in order to influence a slice or Fade shot.
[00245] The sole aperture lengths (55 nra be between 0.3 inch and 6.0 inches. The lengths (3576) tri, 5 inch, 0.6 inch, 0,7 inch, 0.8 inch, 0.9 inch, 1.0 inch, 1.1 inches, 1.2 inches, 1.3 inches, 1.4 inches. 1.5 inches, 1.6 inches, 1.8 inches, 1.9 inches, 2.0 inches, 2,1 inches, 2.2 inches, 2.3 inches, 2.4 inches, 2.5 inches, 2.6 inches, 2.7 inches, 2.8 inches, 2.9 inches, 3.0 inches, 3.1 inches, 3.2 inches, 3.0 inches, 3.4 inches, 3.5 inches, 3.6 inches, 3.7 inches, 3.8 inches, 3,9 inches, 4.0 inches, 4.1 inches, 4.2 inches, 1.3 inches, 1.4 inches"4.5 inches, 1.6 inches, 4.7 inches, 1.8 inches, 4.9 inches, 5.0 inches, 5.1 inches, 5.2 inches, 5.3 inches, 5.4 inches, 5.5 inches, 5.6 inches, 5.7 inches, 5.8 inches, 5.9 inches, or 6.0 inclacs.
[00246] The toe side span (5557) and heel side span (5559) connect the return portion (5177) to the rear end (5180). The toe side span (5557) and heel side span (5559) of the rear extension (5500) can comprise a portion of the sole (5120). The rear extension (5500) comprises a weight channel (5540). The weight channel (5540) is esmosed at the rear end (5180) and at least a portion sole (51.20) of the club head (5300).
100247] The weight channel (5540) is configured to receive a movable weight (.5350) in one of three positions. The weight (5350) can be sec:I.:fed to the weight channel (5540) by a threaded Listener (5320). The weight (5350) can be placed in a toe-side position, a central position, or a heel-side. position. the weight channel (5540) comprises a mounting wall (5542) and a sole wall (5550). The mounting wall (5542) can be oriented approximately perpendicular to the sole (5120). The sole wall (5550) can be oriented approximately parallel to the main sole (5120), but inset by a distance equal to a height of the mounting wall (3512). The movable weight (5350) can comprise an elongate, trapezoidal shape, or any other suitable weight. The movable weight (5350) can comprise a inward wall and a connecting wall. The inward wail hes flush against the sole wall (3350) of the weight channel (5540). The connecting wall lies flush with the mounting wall (3542) when the weight (5350) is attached in one of the three positions.
[00248] 't he mounting wall (5542) of the weight channel (5540) comprises three threaded apertures that correspond to the three weight positions. e mounting wall (5542) comprises a toe-side threaded aperture (5544), a center threaded aperture (5546), and a heel-side;breaded aperture (5548). The movable weight (5350) is positioned in the toe-side position by placing the connecting wall of the weight (5350) Hush against the mounting wall (5542) of the channel (5540) and securing the fastener (5320) into the toe-side threaded aperture (5544). The movable weight (5350) is positioned in the central position by placing the connecting wall of Me weigitt (3350) flush against the mounting wall (55-12) of the channel (5510) and securing the fastener (5320) Into the center threaded aperture (5546). The movable weight (5350) is positioned in the heel-side position by placing the connecting wall at the weight (5350) Bush against the mounting wall (5542) of the channel (5540) and securing the fastener (5320) into the heel-side threaded aperture (5548), [00249] When the n-u wahle weight (5350) is posifioned in the central posi Pon (similar Pi golf club (2100) as illustrated in the sole view of FIG, 19), We golf club (5100) is configured to offer no draw or fade bias. When the weight (2350) is positioned in We roe-side position (similar to golf club (2100) as illustrated in FIG. 20) the ptig,ht (2350) gives the club head a fade bias. When We weight (5350) is positioned in the heel-side position (similar to golf club head (2100) as illustrated in 11(3. 21) the weight (5350) gives the club head a draw bias.
[00250] The first component (5300) comprises a sole portion rear extension (5500), a forward crown portion (5400), and a forward sole portion (5810). The Forward sole portion (5810) comprises a heel extension (3830) and a roe extension (3820). the heel extension (5830) comprises a rear wall (5832). the toe extension (5820) comprises a rear wall (5822), [00251] The first component rear extension (5500) comprises the toe--side wall (552.2) And a heel--side wall (5532) that connect the weight channel (5540) to the striking face sole return (5810). The toe-side wall (5522) is fanned laps the toe side span (5557), opposite the sole aperture (5555). Similarly, the heel-side wall (5532) is formed by the heel side span (5559), opposite the sole aperture (5555). The rear extension toe-side wall (5522) and the toe extension rear wall (5822) can form a toe-side wall angle (5850). The toe-side wall angle (5850) can range between 45 degrees and 180 degrees. 't he rear extension heel-side wall (5532) and the heel extension rear wall (5832) can form a heel-side wall angle (5855). The heel-side wall angle (5855) can range between 43 degrees and 180 degrees. In some embodiments, the toe-side wall angle (3830) is roughly equal to the heel-side wall angle (5855). In other embodiments, the toe-side wall angle (5850) and We heel-side wall angle (5855) are different. In some embodiments, the toe-side wall angle (5850) and the Feel-side wall angle (5855) are supplementary anOes (their F,Ufn eqtuals roughlr 180 degrees). In these embodirnents, the toe extension rear wall (5822) and the heel extension rear wall (5832) are located roughly( within the same plane (the toe rear wall (5822) and the heel rear wall (583:2) arc roughly parallel when viewed from the sole). 17(7r example, die toe-slde wall angle (5850) can be an acute angle, while it heel--side iingle (5855) is a stipptementary 01n7use angle.
[00252] the second component (5200), and similar to second component (2200) as illustrated in FIGS. 29 and 30, can comppse a xrown portion (5203), a trailing edge portion (5230), a sole toe portion (5212), and a sole heel portion (5214). The crown portion (5205) connects the sole toe portion (5212) and the sole heel portion (5214). The trailing edge portion (5230) connects the crown portion (5205) to the sole toe and heel portions (5212 and 5214). The crown portion (5205), sole toe tig n (5212) and sole heel itortion (3214) define a rear en tout in the sole siue of the second component (5200). The rear cutout can be similar to the rear cutout (2240), described for the second embodiment, with reference to FIGS. 29 and 30. In some embodiments, such as the one illustrated in FIG. 29, the rear cutout (2210) cuts into the sole only. In other embodiments, such as the one illustrated in FIG. 30, the rear cutout (2240) cuts into both the sole portion and the crown pot-non (5205). The embodiment that cuts into both the sole and the crown portion (5205) allows more room in the rear end (5180) of the club head (5100) for the weight channel (5540) of the first component (5300).
[00253] Tn some embodiments, the second component (5200) can be secured to the first component (5300) in a way similar to that described above for the first golf club head (100) embodiment and second dub head embodiment (2100). in some embodiments, the materials of the first (3300) and second (3200) components can also be similar to those described above for the first club head (100) embodiments.
[00254] The geometry of the rear sole extension (5500) can mechanically leck or hold the second component (5200) onto the first component. The fan-shaped rear extension (5500), comprising the weight channel (5540), prevents a rigid Ilan From sliding onto the first component (5300). In order to overcome this manufacturing-challenge, the second component (5200) can comprise a semi-rigid it:-Flexible material, allowing the second cc:Tripp-neat (5200) to bend around Or onto the first component In these embodiments, the second component (5200) can snap or lock into place. In some embodiments, the fan-shape geometry of the rear sole extension (5500) allows the second component (5200) to be secured to the first component (5300) without the use of adhesive, or with the use of less adhesive.
[00255] Further, the golf club head (5100) comprises the sole panel (5354, emn the sole panel (5356) covers the sole aperture (5555) of the Iirst component (5300). The sole panel;5 when covering the sole aperture (3535), combines with the toe side span (5557), heel side span (5559) and the rear end (5180) to form the entire sole (5120). The sole panel (5556) is the same shape as the sole aperture (5555), such that the sole panel (5556) covers the entire sole aperture (5555) by joining to the rear (5180), the toe side span (5557), heel side span (5559), and the forward sole portion (5810). In most embodiments, the sole panel (5556)-is adhered to the sole aperture (5555).
[00256] Similar to the sole aperture (5555), the sole panel (5556) can be any shape, howeyer most embodiments, the sole panel (5556) is approximately rectangular. The sole panel (5556) bends with general shape al tile sole (5120). In some embodiments, the sole paiiel (5556) can be square, r(ICE:11-4-E.Lthir, circular, ovular, ellipsuEir, it-icing:1*w, polygonal, pentagonal,hcxkm ii trapeZoidal, or any other desired shape.
[00257] 'He sole pane (5356) comprises a width., where n the width measured from the toe side span (5557) to the heel side side span (5559). in most embodiments, the sole pan (5556) has a greater width, nearer the return portion (5177); than Me panel width nearer the rear end (518(1). Ibis characteristic helps match the,geometry of the sole aperture (5555) and provide a enclosed golf club head (5100). Similar to the width of the sole aperture (5555), in some embodiments, the sole panel (5556) width can be equal or uniform from the return portion (5177) to the rear (5180). Further still, in some embodiments, the sole panel width can be,greater near the rear end (5180) than the panel width near the return portion (5177).
[00258] The sole panel width he between 0.5 inch and 6.0 inches. The xvidths may be 0.5 inch, 0.6 inch, 0.7 inch, 0.3 inch, 0.9 inch, 1.0 inch, 1.1 inches, 1.2 inches, 1.3 inches, 1.4 inches, 1 inches, 1.6 inches, 1.8 inches, 1.9 inches, 2.0 inches, 2.1 inches, 2.2 inches, 2.1 inches, 2.4 inches, 2.5 inches, 2.6 inches, 2.7 inches, 2.8 inches, 2.9 inches, 3.0 inches, 3.1 inches, 3.2 'riches, 3.0 inches, 3.4 inches, 3.5 inches, 3.6 inches; 3.7 inches; 3.8 inches, 3.9 inches, 4.0 inches, 4.1 inches, 4.2 inches, 4.3 inches, 4.4 inches,4.3 inches, 4.6 inches, 4.7 inches, 4.8 inches, 4.9 inches, 5,0 inches, 3.1 inches, 3.2 inches, 5.3 inches, 5.4 inches; 5.5 inches; 5.6 inches, y * iches, 5,8 inches, 5.1 -iches, or 6.0 inches.
[00259] Further, the sole panel 5556) comprises a length, wehrein the length is measured from the return portion (5177) to the rear end (5180). In most embodiments, the sole and (5556) has an qua!length near the heel side span (5559) to the length near the toe side span (5557). This characteristic helps the sole pat (5556) match the exact length of the sole aperture (5 555). in some embodiments, the length near the heel side span (5559) can be less than the ichigth near the toe side span (5557). In contrast, in somc embodiinents, the length near the toe side span (5557) can be less than the length near the heel side span (5559).
100260] 'the sole panel lengths may be between 0.3 inch and 6.0 inches. The lengths may be 0.5 inch, 0.6 inch, 0.7 inch, 0.8 Inch, 0.9 inch, 1.0 inch, 1.1 inches, 1.2 inches, 1.3 inches, 1.4 inches, 1.5 -ches, 1.6 inches, 1.8 inches, 1.9 inches, 2.0 inches, 2.1 inches, 2.2 inches, 2.3 inches, 2.4 inches, 2.5 inches, 2.6 inches, 2.7 inches,-1 s; 2.9 inches, 3.0 inches, 3.1 inches, 3.2 inches, 3.0 inches, 3.4 inches, 3.5 inches, 3.6 inches, 3.7 inches, 3.8 inches, 3.9 inches, 4.0 inches, 4.1 inches, 4.2. inches, 4.3 inches, 1.4 inches,4.5 inches, 4.6 inches, 4.7 inchcs, 4.8 inches, 4.9 inches, 3.1 inchcs, 5.1 inches, 5.2 inches, 5.3 inches, 5.4 inches, 5.5 inches, 5.6 inches, 5.7 inches, 5.8 inches, 5.9 inches, or 6.0 inches.
VI) Method of Manufacture First Method [00261] Referring to FIG. 61, ( first embodiment of a method (10) of manufacti golf duo head (100) comprises forming the first component (300), forming the second component (200), applying an adhesive to a first component lip (450), aligning the second component (200) to the First component (300), fitting the second component (200) to the first component (300) so the second component (200) overlays the lip (450), and allowing the adhesive to set, permanently affixing the second component (200) to the first component (300) to fixm the hollow golf duo ad (100) (step 4040 in FIG. 50). The method (10) can be used to form a golf club head similar to the First, second, third, or fourth golf club heads (100, 2100, 3100, (Dr 4100), described above. For the sake simplicity,, the. reference numbers in the following method description refer to the first club head (100), but this method (10) can be applicable to all of the aforementioned club heads (100, 2100, 3100, or 4100) or variations thereof.
[00262] Referring to 11G. 15, as discussed above, the first..eanponent (300) may further comprise a plurality of casting support bars, including one or more heel end casting support bars (1510), and one or more toe end casting support bars (1512). 111he casting support bars stabilize the cast part of the first corriponent (300) while the metal cools after casting. The stabilization provided by the casting support bars prevents the front portion of the cast part from Folding towards or away from the First component sole tionion rear extension (300) while the part cools after castMg. The casing support bars are removed from the as cast first component (300) and are riot present in the finished golf club head (100).
[00263] An alternative method of tnantifiactunn, * the golf club lie (1010 comprises casting the first component (300), molding a wax pattern of the first component (1. adding wax support bars to the wax pattern, investing the modified wax pattern, casting the investment, trimming the metal casting support bars (1510) and (1512), forming the first component 0001, forming the second component (200), applying an adliesive tO atoteon iponent lip (430), aligning the. second component (2.00) to the tint component (300), fitting the second component (200) to th component (300) so the second component (200) overlays the lip (450), and allowing the adhesive to set, permanently affixing the second component (200) to the first component (30( ) to form hollow golf club head (100). When adding the support bars to the wax pattern, the attachment points for the support bars are an interior surface of the first component (300) wax pattern, to avoid any marring or distortion of. an outer surface of the first component (300) The advantap-p. of adding the support bars is that the casting of the first component is supported against distortion while in a cooling phase after casting.
[00264] Tb e first component (300) can be coupled to the second component 200) at the first component hp (450) to form the body (,)f the golf club head (-CO), The first component lip (1450), including the crown portion lip (455), the sole portion lip (460), and the mass portion vertical lip (750) are entirely covered by the second component (200) when the first component (300) is coupled to the second component (200) to fami the body of the golf club head (100). The second component sole portion rear cutout (240) comprises a portion of perimeter edge (220) at the ft-ailing edge portion (230). When the first component (300) is coupled to second component (200) at the first component lip (450) (to form the body of the golf club head (l00)), the portion of perimeter edge (220) at the trailing edge portion (230) is joined along the mass portion trailing edge. shelf (1042).
[00265] The first component (300) may be coupled to the second component (200) by means of an adhesivemany embodiments, an adhesive such as glue, epoxy, epoxy gasket, tape (e.g., '71-11B tape), or any other adhesive materials can be disposed at the;unction of the second component (200) and the first component lip (450). In some embodiments, the first component tabs (457) on the first component lip (450 and 455) can abut the second component (200), leaving a clearance gap between the First component lip (430 and 433) and the second component (200). This clearance gap can house the adhesive. The clearance gap can have a uniform height or thickness due to the first u)1111,111101t LMS (457) having, uniform heigl-its. This uniform heigi it of the clearance gap can eivate an even bond between the first and second components. in other embodiments, the second component (200) can be coupled to the first component (.300) by fasteners, chps, press fit, or any other appropriate mechanical means of attachment (not shown). in other embodiments, the first component (300) may be coupled to the second component (200) by an adhesive in conjunction witli an appropriate mnechamucai means of attachment. In other embodiments, the first component (c)00) b-cotmled to the second component (200) using laser welding to heat: the second -- t " -*)i g-*-* , component (200) material to cause it: to adhere to the first component (1:2)00) material.
100266] In some embodiments, when the first componen led to the to form the golf club head 100), the surface of e first component (300) is not offset from the surface of the. second component (200). When the First component (300) is coupled to the second component (200) to form the golf club head (100), a nominal outer surface of the first conaponent is not offset above cir below a nominal Laity surface of the second component at the it., ncture of the coupling, (i.e. the outer surfaces of the first component (300) and the second COMIII0 net] t (2 O) art 11 us 11).
Second Mgthosi 1002671 Referring" to FIG. 62, a s econel method of manutiicturing (20) the golf club head (1 00) comprises the following steps: (sten 21) casting an unfinished first component, (Step 2: 22) cutting out portions of the uninisi eel -first component to form a finished first component, (Step 23) injection molding the second component, (Step 4: 241) permanently securing the second component to the first component, and (Step 5: 25) finishing the club head. the second method (20) can be used to form a golf club head similar to the first, second, third, or fourth golf club heads (100, 2100, 3100, or 4100), described above. For the sake simplicity, the reference numbers in the following method description refer to the first club head (100), but this method (20) can be applicable to all of the aforementioned club heads (100, 2100, 3100, or 4100) or variations thereof.
[00268] Forming the first component in the first step (21) can start with casting an unfinished version of the first component (300). The first component (300) can be cast as a Full club head, with a reduced thickness region. A majority of the reduced thickness region can be located approximately where the second component (200) will later be attached. A peripheral section around an edge of the reduced thickness region will eventually form the lip (450) of the first component (300). The unfinished first component is cast with the reduced thickness region because the reduced thickness region helps the first component hold its desired shape during the casting process. Casting the first component (100) without the reduced thinkess region could result in warping of the part or other casting, quality issues. Therefore, casting with the reduced thickness region, which is later removed, ensures that the first component maintains its desired shape so that the second component (200) will tit on it correctly during step three.
[00269] After the unfinished tint component is rerun d trom the rii(..1( in which jt was ias t, a.
laser is used to cut out the unwanted portion of the reduced:Thickness region (second step: 22), leaving only the peripheral section, which forms the lip or the second component (450). The lip can be ground down or polished, as necessary, In sonic embodiments, the strikefacc. (170) of the cllib head is integrally cast as part of the first component (300). In other embodiments, the first component (300) can be cast without a strikeface (170) (with An opening or void in the front of the first component). In these embodiments, a faceplate is provided separately by either casting or forging the faceplate from a metallic nAaterial. The faceplate can be conventionally welded, laser welded, or swedged (swagged) into the front opening of the first component C300).
1002701 The third step (23) can comprise injection molding the second component. The third step (23) can comprise providing a composite material (typically in pellet form), melting the composite material, injecting the tnelted composite material into a mold to form an unfinished second component, cutting off the sprite, and polishin,r?; the gate area to finish the second component (200). As describe above, the composite material can comprise a polymer resin and a reinforeinem fiber. The composite material can be provided in pellets that comprise both resin and fiber. The composite pellets are melted and injected into a mold to form the unfinished second con iponent. The injection molding process of the third step (21) can be similar to the. injection molding process disclosed in Patent Coopoiution Treaty (PCI) Application No. NIT/ LS2020/047702, filed on August 21, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference iii its en tirety.
1002711 The LOUT'.step (24) can compuse applying an adhesive such as a two-part liquid epoxy) to the first component lip re,4501, alignin;(._2; and phicing the second component (2(10) ove:r the component hp (450), and allowmg the adl teS PIC to dry. One or more first component tabs the hp (150) ',Ind (455) an pro yide a clearance gap between the first coinnonent lo (J150) )itic l the second component. This clearance gap can km use the adhesive. The clearance gap can have a uniform height or thickness due to the first component tabs (457) having uniform heights. This uniform height of the clearance gap can create an even bond between the first component (300) and. the second component (200).
[002721 In some embodiments of this second method (20), a. fiinctionalized bonding film or layer can be used instead of an adhesive. The functionahzed bonding film can be provided in one or more strip sections that correspond to the shape And side of the first component hp (450) and (455).
The functionalized bonding film co:wrists a first and second side. 'The film can be configured to bond with the material of the first component on the first side and with the material of the second component on the second side. The bonding film can bond the First and second components together when placed under the necessary temperature and pressure conditions for a set amount of time.
1002731 After the adhesive is applied to the first component lip (430) and 055), -d )111,3 MC:11t can be placed or slid cis er the first component lip. The second component can be slid ca cr the First component lip until an outer edge of the second component comes into contact with the remainder of the first component. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the First component lip comprises a. recessed offset (459), svhich the second component fills when the club head is assembled. The fourth step can further comprise allowing die adhesive to dry and bond the first component to the second component.
/00274] The fifth step (25) can comprise polishing, cleaning, coating, and/or painting the club head. In some embodiments, the fifth step (23) can further comprise placing a detachable weight (1300) within the weight recess (540) and securing the detachable weight (1300) using a fastener. In other embodiments, the filth step (25) can further comprise placing a ince,. able Micieht (2350) within a weight channel (2540) and securing the movable weight (2350) using a fastener.
Third Method [00275] As illustrated in FIG. 63, a third method (30) comprises the following steps: Step 1: 31) forming the first component, (Step 2: 32) providing the second component as a toe portion (3212) aild a heel portion (:',3214), (Stela 3: 33) securing the second component toe portit5n (3212) to the first component (3300), (Step 4: 34) securing the second component heel portion (3214) to the first component (3300), and (Step 5:35) finishing the club head. The first step (31) can comprise casting an unfinished first component, laser cutting out unwanted portions of the unfinished first component, and optionally welding a faceplate to the first component to form the finished first component. The third method (30) can be used to form a golf club head similar to the third or fourth golf club heads (3100 or 4100), described above. Nor the-sake simplicity, the reference numbers in the following method description refer to the third club head (3100), but this method (30) can be applicable to all of the aforementioned club heads (3100 or 4100) orvaratons them-of.
1002761 The first step (31) of forming the first component (3300) can he similar to steps one and two (21 aivi 77) of the second method (2(J), described above. 11ov:exert in this trianuhiethring process, the crown brace 1:3561.) retrains alter the laser cutting of the unfinished first component. The finished first component-comprises an opening on the heel side (configiired to receive the second component heel portion (3214)) and an opening on the toe side (configured to receive the second component toe portion (3212)).
100277] The second step (32) of providing the second component (3200), can be similar to quip three (23) of the second method (20), described above. However, in the third manufacturing process (30), the second component (3200) is provided as two separate pieces: a toe portion (3212) and a heel portion (3214). In some embodiments, the toe portion (3212) and heel portion (3214) can be Injection molded simultaneously from the same sprue and gate, and then disconnected from each other. in other embodiments, the toe portion (3212) and heel portion (3211) are individually Injection molded at: different times. After Injection molding, the toe and heel portions (3212 and 3214) are finished by cutting or grinding oft any excess material left from the gate of the mold, where the material entered the mold.
[00278] Steps three and four (33 and 34) can be performed in any desired order. Step three (33) comprises applying adhesive onto a perimeter lip (riot: illustrated) of the first component (3300), sliding the toe portion (32.12) onto the lip of the first component 2300), and allowing the adhesive to curt/set...I he toe portion (3212) can be assembled by sliding it in a toe-to-heel direction onto lie first component (3300). Step four (34) comprises applying adhesiye onto a. perimeter hp of the first component (3300), sliding: the heel portion (3214) onto the lip of the first component (3300), and allowing the adhesive. to cure/set. The heel portion (3214) can be assembled by sliding: it in a heelto-toe direction onto the first component. (3300). in some cmhochments of-the method steps three and tour (33 and 31) are combined so that the adhesive is applied first, the toe portion (3212) and heel v Thou (3214) are individually slid onto the first component (3300), and the adhesive is then allowed to dry.
1002791 Because the toe portion (3212) and the heel portion (3214) arc geometrically configured to slide onto the first component (3300) front the sides, the first component (3300) can comprise geometries at The rear end of the club head that would not otherwise be possible. For instance, in embodiments with a unitary second component, the second component generally must be slid in a rear-to-front direction onto the first component (3300). This directional assembly required for the unitary second cornoonent determines that the fin:1:c iponent titus comprise geometry with appropriate draft angles. For example, in some embodiments -ctith a unit:try second component, the sole rear extension cannot comprise a region with a smaller width than the rearmost edge of the extension. in light of this, forming the second component as two parrs (toe and heel portions) allows the first component to have complex 2:eothictries that are not lirnited by rear to front direction draft aisles.
VII) Ti-Shaped Design Functions 1002801 As discussed above, lie embodiment of a hollow d (100, 2100, 3100, 1100, or 5100) described herein can comprise at least two major components. The metnilic, first component (300, 2300, 3300, 4300, or 5300) comprises the striking portion and a sole extension (3! II, 2500, 3500, 4500, or 5500) fortnnig a "T" shape. The; non-nictallic, second component (200, 2200, 3200, 47110, 5e200) comprises the rear portion or the crown (110, 2110, 3110, 4110, or 10), and wraps around the first component to also comprise a portion of the sole (120, 2120, 3120, 4120, or 5120). The more dense "T" shaped sole of the first component (300, 2300, 3300, 4300, or 5100), coupled to the less dense crown wrapped art und second cornponen t (200, 220(1, 3200, 1200, or 5200) can optimize mass properties by reducing the crown mass, and shifting the golf club head center or {gravity (CG) lower. The saved weight from the second component: (200, 2200, 3200, 1200, or 5200) can be redistributed to other locations of the golf club head (100, 2100, 3100, 4100, or 5100) to further optimize the CU, increase tile MOI, and manipulate the shape of the shot trajectory.
[00281] The CU of the gedf club head (100, 2100,3100, -4100, or 5100) can motie lower and toward the rear of the golf club head comprising the First component (300, 2300, 3300, 4300, or 5300) and the second component (200, 2200, 3200, 4200, 01 5200), wherein the second component (200, 2200, 3200, 4200, or 5200) comprises a second material with a second density that is lower than the first material density, compared to an alternate golf club head comprising only the first material with a constant density.
EXAM PEES
Example I:
100282] A comparative c di head and An exemplary club head of the instant application are con-Li:tared in Table 1. 'The comparative club is entirely metallic, bur has similar total mass and total volume as the exemplary club head. The exemplary club head was c:imilar to the first embodiment of a golf club head, described above. The exemplary club head comprised a metallic first component and a polymeric second component that attached to the first component to enclose a hollow interior. The firs t component had a striking lace, a striking face return, and a rear extension on the sole. The second component had a crown portion, a sole toe portion, and a sole heel portion.
Table 1
CG lxx Mass Volume Comparative Golf Club 0.895 1.913 584.45 834.3 205.7 g Head Exemplary Golf Club Read 0.887 1.986 657.71 875.94 205.8 g Exemplary Golf Club Head with Embedded Weight 0.89 2.013 678.31 901.78 205.2 g [002831 The comparative club head and an exemplary club head have equal volumes approvtrnatr.:lv 445 cm'. The comparison club, constructed entirely of a metallic material has a CC.,, which is the height of the CG above the ground plane (105), of 0.895 inch. The exemplary golf club head has a CC:. of 0.887 inch. it is desirable to have a lower value For CC,.. The CC, 0 the exemplary golf club head is lower than that of the comparison club hr 0.008 inch.
[002841 As described aix CG" is measured as a distance the CC is located toWi:mni the rear end of the golf club head from the strike face center (175) in a direction aerpenuicufir to the oft plane of the (198). A greater CG,, located further to the rear of the golf club, is beneficial for bail flight control. The comparison club, has a CG, of 1.913 inches. The exc.:nap:arc golf club head has a. CG, of 1.986 inches. The CG, of the exemplary golf club head is 0.073 inch further back than the CC, of the comparison club.
100285] The position of the CC helps determine the launch characteristics of a bail (e.R., ball trajectory, bail spin, and ball speed), moment of inortia (MOP), and performance characteristics (0"g., swing speed, squaring the face during impact). A high MOI prevents rotation or the golF club head during a swing, and helps square the striking face during impact with the ball. Striking the ball with a squared striking face helps ensure a straight ball path and optimal height/trajectory, compared to slicing or hooking the ball when the striking face is not squared. 1:urther, with a lower CG, the speed and spin of ball are Fried, which add distance ind prevent h ball rolling backwards upon landing.
100286] The 11401 of the golf club head greater than the.M0l of the comparison golf club. MOT values -177c and 1-',0,-are the MOI values about the X axis (190) and Y axis, 11921 respectively. Larger MOT is desirable, as a high MOT helps prevent rotation of the golf club head during a swing, and helps square the striking face during impact with the ball. The comparative club has Tt.x ttnd hy values of-581.45 ii d831 respectively. The c-,:emplai7 goll club head has at id 4'652.71 and 875.91, respectively. The exemplary golf club bead has a quite large 11.7?0 improv,. lent of lyx, and a 3.0% improvement or Ivy over the comparative club.
[00287] The ball flight of a golf hall struck by the exemplary golf cli h head has improved CC', and CG, values, directly leading to improved t.g., and biy values. 'the improved CG values leads to lower ball spin at impact, which leads to a longer carry for the ball flight. The improved MO1 values lead directly to more forgiveness for off center hits.
[00288] In an alternate embodiment, an embedded high density wetght was added to the exemplary golf club head. The exemplary golf club head. with weight has a CC', of 0.890 inch and a (C;, of 2.013 inches. The exemplary golf club head with weight (X;" is less than the CG, of the comparative golf club head by 0.005 inch, but the CG, of the exemplary golf with weight is greater than the CC, of the comparative golf club head by 0.100 inch. The exemplary golf club head with wetght has an Txx value of 678.31, and hTh: value of 901.78. These MOT values are both greater than eh,: and to, of the comparative golf club head by /6% and 8.1%, respectively, 17,,x2o,ti_pl 2: [00289] A series of club head co,ThonentS were compared to one another through a Finite Element Analysis (EEA) simulation. test or the impact of a gcll ball with each club head. The club head components were metallic components comprising at least a face, a. striking face return, and a sole extension having a rear weight channel holding a movable. \veight in a center position. 'the tested components were not hilly assembled club heads. They did not include a. second component with a lower density. Rather, this test isolated metallic club head components, since simulation and comparison of single components can be MOM ACCIlnite than complex siraulatinn of assembled club heads. The simulation test considered the refthve vertical 'lisnlacement of 0fie re2V weipht alter a center fact in a golf kill traveling at mph. The rear weight in the radii of 32 [002901 The series of club head components included: a first, a second,, a third, urtn, -fifth sixth, a seventh, and an eighth test component. The first test component was similar to the component (300) of the first golf club head (100) described. above, --cent that the first test component comprised:1 rear weight channel holding a movable weight-in a center position niftier than a single rear weight. he first ict.t Lomponent did not have ally Prace between the strikinL, Face return and a trailing edge of the rear extension.
1002911 inc second test component similar to the first component (4300) of the fourth golf club head (4100), described above, specifically the variation of FIGS, 43 and 44. The second test component had a toe skirt brace (similar to 4566) and a heel skirt brace (similar to 4568). The third test component was similar to the first component (43(0) of the fourth golf club head (4100), described above, specifically the variation of FIGS. 4.5 and 46. The third test component had a toe skirt brace (similar to 4566), a heel skirt brace (similar to 4568), and a central crown brace (similar to 4560).
[00292] The fourth test component was similar to the first component 4300) of the fourth golf club head (411)0). described above, specifically the variation of FIGS. 47 and 48. The fourth test component had a toe-side brace (similar to 4557) and a heel-side brace (similar to 4559). The toe-side brace and the heel-side brace of the tburth test component were separated by a greater width towards the rear end of the fourth test component. 't he 171 tth test component was similar to the first component (43(0) ot tile fourth golf club head (4100), ciescrilieci above, specifically the variation of FIGS. 49 and 50. 'the fifth test component had a toe-side brace (similar to 4557) and a heel-side brace (similar to 4559). The Ece-side brace and the heel-side brace of the fifth test component were separated by a lesser width towards die rear end of the filth test component, so that they formed a V-shape from a top view.
[00293] The sixth test compc.nent was simriar to the first component (4300) of the fourth golf club head (4100), described above, specifically the variation of FIGS. 51 and 52. The sixth test component had a toe skirt brace (similar to 4566), a heel skirt brace (similar to 4568), a toe-side brace (similar to 4557), and a heel-side brace (similar to 4559). The toe-side and heel-side braces of the sixth test component were separated by a greater width towards the rear end of the sixth test component The seventh test component was similar to the first component (4300) of the fourth volt club head (1100), described above, specifically the variation or 1. *ui s)-) and 51 The -;eventh test component had a toe skirt brace (similar to 4566), a heel skirt brace (similar to 4568), a toe--side brace (similar to 4557), and a. heel-side brace (similar to 4559). ?The toe--side and heel--side braces of the seventh test component were parallel to one another.
I 00294 J The eighth test component was similar to the first component (4300) of the fourth golf dub head (4100), described above, specifically the variation of FITGS. SS and 56. The eighth test component had a toe skirt brace (sin-Li:at to 1566), a heel skirt brace (similar to 4568), and a pair of crisscrossing braces (similar to the above-d.....ribed first brace 4370 and second brace 4572).
[00295.1 When a golf ball -impacts a club head,Dff center relative to the center of gravity force line, a golf dub head will torque about the center of gravity. The center of gravity force line is a theoretical line extending roughly perpendicular to the face and coincident with the center of gravity. 'the induced torque effect about the center of gravity caused by an off line impact is known in the golf industry as gearing. Relative movement of portions of a test component cannot be accurately measured based on a fixed coordinate system, because gearing could contribute to the ineaSuremen N. Imt example, gearing could Crlitst 'el tear movable: weight to appear lo MLR e downwards if the golf bail strikes the face above the center of gravity force line. Tlierefore, when measuring the relative vertical displacement of the rear weight channel and weight, measurements must be take with respect to a coordinate system that follows the overall movement of the golf club head.
[00296] 'fa conduct an accurate simulation test, a coordinate system was set up within each test component. The coordinate system was linked to a theoretical plane. Abe theoretical plane \vas parallel to the loft plane and offset 1.25 inches behind the loft plane, because this region of a golf club head is adequately distanced from lie critical stress zones in the crown and sole. Separating the theoretical plane from the critical stress zones isolates the anchored coordinate system, allowing the coordinate system to accurately follow the overall movement Or the club head component. Tieing the coordinate system to the overall movement of the club head component allows for accurate measurement of the relative vertical deflection of the movable weight. For the purposes of this example, "relative vertical deflection" should be understood to mean deflection in a sole-to-crown direction parallel to the loft plane (and the theoretical plane). In other words, relative vertical deflection is a rneasurerrienl-e)f the amplitude of the impact-induced oscillation of the re,.r weight, relative to the rest of the test golf club head component.
[002971 As graphed in FIG. 64, the back weight of the firs omponer (with no braces) deflected over 0.3 inch, The second test component clwith toe and heel skirt braces) showed an improvement, with the rear weight deflecting up to approximately 0.15 inch. The Fifth test component (with roe and heel-side braces, V-shaped) showed a MaXiMLIM relative vertical weight displacement of approximately 0.12 inch. The fourth test component (with real-war:11y widening toe and heel side braces) peril-armed similarly to the fifth test component. The fourth test component showed a -maximun-t relative vertical displacement of approximately 0,11 inch. The eighth test component (with skirt braces and crisscrossing crown braces) showed a maximum relative vertical displacement of approximately 0,075 inch. The third, sixth., and seventh test components performed better than any of the other components.
[002981 the graph of FIG. 65 shows the third, s _ tl Ind seventh test components compared to the baseline first rest component. The graph of FIG. 66 is a zoomed in view of the graph of FIG. 65. As shown in the FIG. 66 graph, the third rest component (with skirt braces and central crown brace) showed a maNimum relative vertical displacement of app.-Ey:in:alight 0,065 inch, The sixth test aotriyi mcnt (with skirt braces and rear,vardly widening toe and heel side braces) showed a slightly lower maxim im relarke -vertical displacement of approximately 0.057, and the seventh test component (with skirt braces and parallel toe and heel side bracts) showed a maximum relative vertical displacement of approximately 0.054 inch.
(002991 A rear weight which deflects upwards more will vund downwards more, inducing more material fatigue and stress in the sole rear extension. I or a hilly assembled golf club head having the herein described two-component design, the lip or overlapping joint structure connecting the First and second components, is at risk for id:Mating if the rear weight oscillates or -vibrates at high at (high values of relative vertical displacement). Therefore, the test components exhibiting lower relative vertical displacement of the rear weight will form more durable golf club heads. This simulation test-shocved that adding braces to the first component improves the durability of the golf club head. In particular, including a combination of two skirt braces, a toe-side brace, and a heel-side brace into a first component (such as in FIGS. 51-54) provided the best stability to the rear weight and thus the greatest durability.
[00300] The perf'irmance of a fun g if club head will be benur ti-tin the perti 21,11Ce of the tested series of club lead C01111)0tleil ES (Le. metallic, first components). For die herein described go11 club head embodiments, the second component, typically comprising a polymeric mater des some support to the f'itytcomnoricnt. The attached second component reduces the relative ertical displacement of the rear weight. therefore, any component of the series of tested club head components can form a sufficiently durable club head if coupled with properly designed second component. However, a first component (metal] id that has less relative vertical displacement of the rear Weight can be coupled to a thinner, lighter weight, or less durable second component to arrive at an equally durable overall club head.
Example 3:
[003011 A second comparison was done between the first test component, the third test component, and the seventh test component, described in Example. 2 above. This comparison test was conducted through a lAnite tilerment Analysis (Ft LA) simulation test of the impact of a golf ball with each chib head. The simulation test considered the relative vertical displacement of the rear weight atier a toe-side (o center) face impact by a golf ball traveling at 80 mph. The face was impacted at 1 inch towards the me end ftom the geometric center of the lace.
[00302] As shown in the graph of FIG. 67, the first test component (with no braces) showed a rear 'weight relative ye: ical displacement of over 0.5 inch. The third test component (with skirt draces and central crown brace) showed a rear weight maximum relative -vertical displacement of approximately 0.1 inch. The seventh test component (with skirt braces and parallel toe and heel side braces) showed a re/Jr weight maximum relative vertical displacement of approximately 0.08 inch. This comparison illustrates that braces increase club head durability not only fiar center hit shots, but also For off-center hit shots.
[00303] Replacement al one or more claimed elements constitutes reconstruction and not repair Acklitionalki, benefits, other ad-vantages, and solutions to problems have been described with regard to specific embodirnents. The benefits, adirantages, solutions to problems, and any element or elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced, however, are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential Features or elements of any or all of the claims, unless such benefits, advantages, solutions, or elements are expressly stated in such [00304] As the rules to golf may change from dune to time (e.g., new regulation:: may be adopted or old rules may be eliminated or modified by golf standard organizations and/or governing bodies such as the United States Golf.li.ssociation (IllSG A), the Royal and Ancient Golf Cub of St. Andrews (R&M, etc.), golf equipment related to the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be conforming or non-conforming to the rules of golf at any particular time. Accordingly, golf eiiiiipment related to the apparatus, methods, and articles of IllaittithCtUte described herein may be advertised, offered for sale, and/or sold as conforming or non-conforming golf equipment. 'the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard.
1003051 Custom within the industry, rules set by golf organizations such as the United States Golf Association (ELESGA The h&A, and naming-convennon may augment [-his description or terminology without departing from the scope of the present application.
[00306] While the above examples may be described in connection with a hollow body golf club, the apparatus, metllads, and articles of manufacture described herein may be applicable to other types of golf club sw-21-i as an in-m-typc gcilf dub, a v,tedge-typc golf dub, or a putter-type golf dub. Alternatively, the apparatus, methods, and articles of;Manufacture described herein may be applicable to other types of sports equipment such as a hockey stick, a tennis racket, a fishing pole, a ski pole., etc. [00307] Moreover, embodiments and limitations disclosed herein are not dedicated to the public under the doctrine of dedication if the embodiments and/or (1) are not expressly claimed in the claims; and (2) are or are potentially equivalents of express elements and/or limitations in the claims under the doctrine or equivalents.
[00308] Various features and advantages of the disclosures are set forth in the following clauses.
[00309] Clause 1: A gall( club head comprising: a body comprising: a stkiing face, a rear end, a toe end, a heel end, a crown, a sole, a skirt, and a trailing edge, the body higher comprising: a first component comprising the striking face, a striking face return, a rear extension comprising a weight channel, and a crown brace attached to the striking face re runt and to the rear extension; and a second component comprising a crown portion, a sole toe portion, and a sole heel portion; wherein: the second component is configured to be coupled to the first component to fbrni an en dosed hollow interior of the golf club head; the first component comprises a First material having a first density: the second component compris4s a second material having a second density: the first density is greater than the second density; the striking face comprises a striking Lice center; Hie weight channel is centrally located in the rear end of the golf club head; the s rrikn2: face return of the First component extends rearwardly from the striking Face, and comprises a Forward crown portion and a forward sole portion; the rear extension extends from the Forward sole portion of the striking face return toward the rear end; the rear e:*:teitsion further comprises a rear extension ax is extending through a center of the rear extension; and a first component mass is 85% to 96% of a mass of the golf club head.
[00310] Clause 2: the golf club head of clause 1, wherein the crown brace attaches te the forward crown portion of the striking face return and to the sole rear extension adjacent re the weight channel at the rear end of the golf club head, [00311] Clause 3: The gol club head of clause 2, wherein the crown brace and the weigh t channel comprise a hammerhead shape.
[00312] Clause 4: The golf club head of clause 2, wherein the enmtn brace Further comprises a crown brace longitudinal axis: the crown brace comprises a maximum length; and the crown brace longjxudinal axis bisects the crown brace along the maximum length.
[00313] Clause 5: The golf club head of clause 4, wherein the crown brace longitudinal axis is offset toward the heel end parallel to the rear extension axis.
[00314] Clause 6: The golf club head of clause 4, wherein the crown brace lotVtucIti2d axi-is offset toward the toe end parallel to the rear extension axis.
[00315] Clause 7: the golf club head of clause 4, wherein the crow it brace longitudinal axis is non-parallel to the rear extension axis such that the crown brace longitudinal axis forms an acute angle relative to the rear extension axis.
[00316] Clause 8: The golf club head of claim 4, wherein: a.n N-axis that extends through the strikitig face center in a dirfctioit from the heel end to the toe end of the golf club head, also extending parallel to a ground plane when the club head is at an address position:, a Y--ax is extends through the striking lae:e center in. a direction from the crown to the sole of the golf club head, and perpendicular to the N--axis: a 7-axis extends through the striking face center in a direction from the striking face to the golf club head rear end and perpendicular to the N--axis and the V--axis; a loft plane is approximately parallel to the striking fact and tangent to the striking face center forming a loft Ingle with the ground plane; an KY plane extends through the LK-axis and the Y-axis; a YZ r)lane extends through die V--axisand the Z-axis; and the crown brace longitudinal axis is parallel to the VZ plane.
1003171 Clause 9: The golf dub head of clause 1, wherein the weight channel is exposed at the rear end and sole of the body, [00318] Clause 10: *the golf club head of clause 1, wherein the weight channel is configured to receive '3 moveable vveipht in one of three positions.
1003191 Clause The golf club head or clause 1, wherein the rear extension comprises a toe-side wall and a heel-side wall extending between the weight channel and the fdrward sole portion or the striking face return.
(0032141 Clause 12: The golf club 1 R Lea,: of clause 10, wherein: the weight channel further comprises a mounting wall comprising three threaded apertures; the three threaded apertures comprise a toe-side threaded aperture, a center threaded aperture, and i heel--side threaded aperture; and the center threaded aperture is located at center point of a length of the mounting wall.
[00321] Clause [3: The gall club head of-clause 1, wherein: the rear extension comprises a rear extension width measured in a heel to toe direction rearward of a rear perimeter of die forward sole portion of the striking face return; and the rear extension width is in a range of 25',/o to 85/0 of an entire width of the sole, [00322.1 Clause 14: The golf club head of clause 13, wherein the rear extension width adjacent the weight channel can range between 1 inch and 2.5 inches.
100323] Clause 15: The golf club head of clause 12, wherein a moveable weight is secured by a threaded fastener, which engages one of the three threaded apertures.
[00324] Clause 16: The golf club head of claim 12, wherein: the weig;ht channel further coniprisc-s a sole wall, the sole wall lreinc inset from the sole; the mounting wall is oriented approxiniately perpendicular to the sole; and the sole wall is inset from the sole by a distance approximately equal to the height of the mounting wall.
[003251 Clause 17: golf club head comprising: a body conaprising: a striking face, a rear end, a toe end, a heel end, a crown, a sole, a skirt, and a trailing edge, the b(xly Luther comprising: a first e(minponent comprising the striking, face, a strikirtg u return. a rear extensi(m comprising a -Weight channel, and a plurality of crown braces; and a second component comprising a crown portion, sole toe portion, and a sole heel portion; wherein: the second component is configured to be coupled to the first component to Corm an enc.losed hollow interior of the golf club liead; the first 7r, component comprises a first material having a first density; the second component comprises a second material having, a second density; the first density is greater than the second density; the striking face comprises a striking: face center; the Jwci2:ht channel is centrally located in the rear end of the golf club head; the striking Face return of the first component extends rearward ft from the striking face; and comprises a first component crown portion and a first component sole portion; the rear extension extends from the first component sole portion of the striking face return toward the rear end; the rear extension Farther comprises a rear extension axis extending through a center of the rear extension; and a First component mass is SSY'i to 96'l/i3 of a mass of the gait-club head.
100326] Clause 18: 'the golf club head of clause 17, wherein: the plurality of crown braces defines a number of openings in the first component; and the number of openings is selected from the group consisting of: three, four, five, or six openings.
[00327] Clause 19: The golf club head of clause 17, wherci n: the plurality of cro\vn braces comprises two crown braces; each or the two crown braces attaches to the forward crown portion and to the rear extension adjacent to the weight: channel at the rear end of the golf club head.
[00328.] Clause 20: The golf club head or clause 19, wherein the two crown braces attach to rear extension at different points.

Claims (1)

  1. Claims 1. A goifcluh bead comprising: a body comprising: a striking face, a rear end, -end, a heel end, a crown, a sole, a skirt a peripheral and a trailing edge; the body further comprising: First component comprising the striking face, a striking face return, a rear extension comprising a weight channel, and at least one crown brace attached from the striking Face return to the rear extension; and a second component comprising a crown portion, a sole toe portion, and a sole heel portion; wherein: the second component is configure( to be coupled to the first component to form an enclosed hollow interior of the golf club head; combionetat comprises a first material having;I first density-, * . second component comprises a second material having a second den the first density is greater than the second density; c weight channel is centrally located in the rear end of the golf club head; the -weight channel is configured to receive a movable weight; the weir* channel further c(imprises a mounting wall comprising -nee threaded apertures; the st wherein; the at least one crown brace has a brace thickness measured from an outer surface a the brace to an inner surface of the brace; wherein the brace thickness can range between 0.015 inch and 0.035 inch, g face return of the tirst con ponen extends reanvardly from the striking face, and comprises a forward crown port ton and a forward sole portion; extension extends from the Forward sole p dicing face return toward the rear end; and the rear extension further comprises a rear exensiur axis exrendina,hrou0h a center 2. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the three threaded aperntres comprise a toe-side threaded aperture, a center threaded aperture, and a heel side threaded aperture.3. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the rear extension axis is biased toward the heel end.4. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the rear extension axis is biased toward the toe end.5. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the movable weight can comprise a mass ranging ha rn1.0 g1111-1110 n1 35.0,grams.6. The golf club head of claim 5, Nyherein the movable weight can comprise an elongate, trapezoidal shape.7. The gt.)If dub head of claim 1, wherein the crown brace is positioned approximately haltway between the toe end and the heel end of the golf dub head._ head.8. Ibe palf club head of claim 1, wherein the crown brace further cornprises a plurality of braces that can efine a toe side brace and a heel side brace.The golf club head of claim 8, wherein the toe side brace and the heel side brace define a central crown opening; a toe side opening and a heel side opening.10. he golf dub bead ol C1a1011 8, wherein the toe side brace and the heel side brace are separated by a lesser distance towards the trailing edge of the rear end.ii. The golf dub head or claim 8, wherein the toe side brace and the heel side brace can be separated by a greater distance towards the trailing edge at the rear end of the golf club head.12. The golf club head of claim 8, wherein the toe side brace and the heel side brace form a NT--shaped pattern from a top view.13. The golf club head of claim 8, wherein the toe side brace and the heel side brace are parallel.11. The golf club head of clahn 1, whet in the at least one crown brace has a total brace weight at is less than 0.6 g.13. The *golf dub head of clams 1, the at least one crown brace nasa brace width measured from a toe-side edge and a heel-side edge; vwberein the brace width can range between 0.05 inch and 0.8 inch.
GB2402667.6A 2019-11-26 2020-11-25 Multi-component golf club head Active GB2624575B (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (7)

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US201962940799P 2019-11-26 2019-11-26
US16/789,261 US10953294B2 (en) 2017-12-08 2020-02-12 Multi-component golf club head
US202062976229P 2020-02-13 2020-02-13
US202063015398P 2020-04-24 2020-04-24
PCT/US2020/043483 WO2021016555A1 (en) 2019-07-24 2020-07-24 Multi-component golf club head
PCT/US2020/047702 WO2021041353A1 (en) 2019-08-23 2020-08-24 Method of forming a golf club head
GB2400227.1A GB2622746B (en) 2019-11-26 2020-11-25 Multi-component golf club head

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GB2402671.8A Active GB2624578B (en) 2019-11-26 2020-11-25 Multi-component golf club head
GB2402669.2A Active GB2624577B (en) 2019-11-26 2020-11-25 Multi-component golf club head
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GB2402669.2A Active GB2624577B (en) 2019-11-26 2020-11-25 Multi-component golf club head
GB2208696.1A Active GB2605720B (en) 2019-11-26 2020-11-25 Multi-component golf club head

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EP3897882A1 (en) * 2018-12-21 2021-10-27 Karsten Manufacturing Corporation Golf club head with stiffening ribs

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WO2001038562A2 (en) * 1999-11-22 2001-05-31 Taylor Made Golf Company, Inc. Golf club head having skeletal support structure
US7993216B2 (en) * 2008-11-17 2011-08-09 Nike, Inc. Golf club head or other ball striking device having multi-piece construction
US9821201B1 (en) * 2016-04-29 2017-11-21 Parsons Xtreme Golf, LLC Golf club heads and methods to manufacture golf club heads
US20160271462A1 (en) * 2015-03-17 2016-09-22 Dean L. Knuth Golf club with low and rearward center of gravity
US10596427B2 (en) * 2017-12-08 2020-03-24 Karsten Manufacturing Corporation Multi-component golf club head
US9873029B1 (en) * 2016-08-24 2018-01-23 Wilson Sporting Goods Co. Golf club head

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US7632193B2 (en) * 2005-08-10 2009-12-15 Thielen Feinmechanik Gmbh & Co. Fertigungs Kg Golf club
EP3897882A1 (en) * 2018-12-21 2021-10-27 Karsten Manufacturing Corporation Golf club head with stiffening ribs

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WO2021108723A1 (en) 2021-06-03

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