JP2022192022A - Golf club having damping element for ball speed control - Google Patents

Abstract

To increase the carry by simply and reliably backing a striking face.SOLUTION: A golf club head has a striking face, and a periphery portion surrounding and extending rearwards from the striking face. The striking face has a front surface configured to strike a golf ball, and a rear surface opposite the front surface, where a support arm is separated from the rear surface of the striking face and extends from the periphery portion. The support arm is affixed to the periphery portion at two distinct locations. A damping element resides between the support arm and the rear surface of the striking face, and has a front surface in contact with the rear surface of the striking face, and a rear surface in contact with the support arm. The support arm extends substantially parallel with a horizontal axis.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 68

Description

The present invention relates to golf club heads with damping elements for controlling ball velocity.

For golfers, the goal is to reduce the total number of swings required to complete a round of golf, thereby reducing their overall score. To achieve that goal, the golfer wants the ball to travel a similar distance when struck with the same golf club and, for some clubs, to have the ball travel a long distance. is generally desirable. For example, when a golfer misses a golf ball slightly, the golfer does not want the golf ball to travel a significantly different distance. At the same time, golfers do not want to consistently experience a significantly reduced overall distance with each ball hit, even when hitting the ball at the "sweet spot" of the golf club. Additionally, it is desirable to provide the golfer with a pleasing sound when the golf club strikes the golf ball.

JP 2018-015565 A

One non-limiting example of this technology includes a golf club head comprising a hitting face, a peripheral portion surrounding said hitting face and extending rearwardly from said hitting face, and said golf club head comprising: a coordinate system centered on the center of gravity of a y-axis extending perpendicular to the ground when the golf club head is at address at a given loft and lie; and an x-axis that is parallel to the plane of the golf club head and extends to the heel of the golf club head, and a z-axis that is perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extends through the striking face. a system, the hitting face having a front surface configured to strike a golf ball and a back surface opposite the front surface, the golf club head further extending from the back surface of the hitting face; spaced apart support arms, said support arms extending from said peripheral portion, said support arms being attached to said peripheral portion at two separate locations; and said support arms and said back surface of said hitting face. a damping element positioned between a surface and having a front surface in contact with the rear surface of the striking face and a rear surface in contact with the support arm; A portion has a sole extending rearwardly from the bottom of the striking face and a top line extending rearwardly from the top of the striking face, the support arm extending from the sole toward the damping element. and a second portion extending from the topline toward the damping element, the first portion of the support arm having a first thickness along the z-axis and a thickness along the x-axis. , the first thickness along the z-axis being greater than the first thickness along the x-axis, and the second thickness of the support arm has a second thickness along the x-axis and a second thickness along the z-axis, the second thickness along the x-axis being equal to the z - greater than said second thickness along the axis, the golf club head further comprising a medallion attached to said peripheral portion of said golf club head, said medallion forming an internal cavity, said support arms and The damping element resides within the cavity, the damping element comprising an elastomer.

In additional non-limiting embodiments of the technique, the perimeter of the front surface of the dampening element defines a support area, the support area has a geometric center, and the striking face has a plurality of scorelines. and the striking face has a heel reference surface extending parallel to the y-axis and the z-axis, the heel reference surface extending 1 millimeter from the heel-side limit range of the scoreline toward the heel and the geometric center of the support area is located in the toe direction away from the heel reference plane by the support area offset length as measured parallel to the x-axis, the striking face comprising: The golf club head has a hitting face length measured parallel to the x-axis from the heel reference plane to the toe-side limit of the front surface of the hitting face, and the golf club head defines the support area offset length as the hitting face length. Having a support area offset ratio having 100% divided by the face length, wherein the support area offset ratio is greater than or equal to 40%.

An additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique further includes a second damping element in contact with the striking face, the second damping element being separate and distinct from the damping element. .

Additional non-limiting examples of this technology include a golf club head comprising a hitting face, a peripheral portion surrounding said hitting face and extending rearwardly from said hitting face, and said golf club. A coordinate system centered on the center of gravity of the head, the y-axis extending perpendicular to the ground when the golf club head is at address at a given loft and lie, the hitting perpendicular to the y-axis. having an x-axis parallel to the face and extending to the heel of the golf club head, and a z-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extending through the hitting face. and coordinate axes, the hitting face having a front surface configured to strike a golf ball and a back surface opposite the front surface, the golf club head further comprising the back surface of the hitting face. a support arm spaced from said support arm extending from said peripheral portion, said support arm being attached to said peripheral portion at two separate locations; a damping element positioned between a back surface and having a front surface in contact with the back surface of the striking face and a back surface in contact with the support arm; The support arms extend substantially parallel to the y-axis.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the technique, the peripheral portion has a sole extending rearwardly from the bottom of the hitting face and a top line extending rearwardly from the top of the hitting face, and the support arm includes: has a first portion extending from the sole toward the damping element and a second portion extending from the topline toward the damping element.

In additional non-limiting embodiments of the technique, the first portion of the support arm has a first thickness along the z-axis and a first thickness along the x-axis. and the first thickness along the z-axis is greater than the first thickness along the x-axis, and the second portion of the support arm has the x-axis and a second thickness along the z-axis, wherein the second thickness along the x-axis is equal to the second thickness along the z-axis greater than the thickness of

In additional non-limiting embodiments of the technology, further comprising a medallion attached to the peripheral portion of the golf club head, the medallion forming an internal cavity, the support arm and damping element present in cavities.

In additional non-limiting embodiments of this technique, the damping element comprises an elastomer.

In additional non-limiting embodiments of the technique, the perimeter of the front surface of the dampening element defines a support area, the support area has a geometric center, and the striking face has a plurality of scorelines. and the striking face has a heel reference surface extending parallel to the y-axis and the z-axis, the heel reference surface extending 1 millimeter from the heel-side limit range of the scoreline toward the heel and the geometric center of the support area is located in the toe direction away from the heel reference plane by the support area offset length as measured parallel to the x-axis, the striking face comprising: The golf club head has a hitting face length measured parallel to the x-axis from the heel reference plane to the toe-side limit of the front surface of the hitting face, and the golf club head defines the support area offset length as the hitting face length. Having a support area offset ratio having 100% divided by the face length, wherein the support area offset ratio is greater than or equal to 40%.

An additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique further includes a second damping element in contact with the striking face, the second damping element being separate and distinct from the damping element. .

Additional non-limiting examples of this technology include a golf club head comprising a hitting face, a peripheral portion surrounding said hitting face and extending rearwardly from said hitting face, and said golf club. A coordinate system centered on the center of gravity of the head, the y-axis extending perpendicular to the ground when the golf club head is at address at a given loft and lie, the hitting perpendicular to the y-axis. having an x-axis parallel to the face and extending to the heel of the golf club head, and a z-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extending through the hitting face. a coordinate system, wherein the hitting face has a front surface configured to strike a golf ball and a back surface opposite the front surface; the golf club head further includes a back surface of the hitting face; a support arm spaced from the surface, the support arm extending from the peripheral portion, the support arm being attached to the peripheral portion at two separate locations; a damping element positioned between the back surface, the damping element having a front surface in contact with the back surface of the striking face and a back surface in contact with the support arm; The support arm has a first portion extending from the heel side of the golf club head toward the damping element and a second portion extending from the toe side of the golf club head toward the damping element.

In additional non-limiting embodiments of the technique, further comprising a heel weight member and a toe weight member, the first portion of the support arm extending from the heel weight member and the The second portion of the support arm extends from the toe weight member.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the technique, the first portion of the support arm has a first thickness along the x-axis and a first thickness along the z-axis. wherein the first thickness along the x-axis is greater than the first thickness along the z-axis, and the second portion of the support arm has the x-axis and a second thickness along the z-axis, wherein the second thickness along the x-axis is equal to the second thickness along the z-axis greater than the thickness of

An additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique further includes a medallion attached to the peripheral portion of the golf club head, the medallion forming an internal cavity, the support arm and damping element connecting the present in cavities.

In additional non-limiting embodiments of this technique, the damping element comprises an elastomer.

In additional non-limiting embodiments of the technique, the first portion of the support arm is angled 5 degrees to the x-axis from the heel side of the golf club head toward the damping element. angled upwards at an angle exceeding

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the technique, the second portion of the support arm is angled 5 degrees to the x-axis from the toe side of the golf club head toward the damping element. angled upwards at an angle exceeding

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the technique, the first portion of the support arm is angled 5 degrees with respect to the x-axis from the heel side of the golf club head toward the damping element. angled upwardly at an angle greater than 5 degrees, wherein the second portion of the support arm is angled upwardly from the toe side of the golf club head toward the damping element at an angle greater than 5 degrees with respect to the x-axis; angled.

In additional non-limiting embodiments of the technique, the perimeter of the front surface of the dampening element defines a support area, the support area has a geometric center, and the striking face has a plurality of scorelines. and the striking face has a heel reference surface extending parallel to the y-axis and the z-axis, the heel reference surface extending 1 millimeter from the heel-side limit range of the scoreline toward the heel and the geometric center of the support area is located in the toe direction away from the heel reference plane by the support area offset length as measured parallel to the x-axis, the striking face comprising: The golf club head has a hitting face length measured parallel to the x-axis from the heel reference plane to the toe-side limit of the front surface of the hitting face, and the golf club head defines the support area offset length as the hitting face length. Having a support area offset ratio having 100% divided by the face length, wherein the support area offset ratio is greater than or equal to 40%.

An additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique further includes a second damping element in contact with the striking face, the second damping element being separate and distinct from the damping element. .

SUMMARY This summary is provided to introduce selected concepts of the invention in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the subject matter described in the claims below, nor is it intended to limit the scope of such subject matter.

Non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples are described with reference to the following figures.

1 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element; FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element; FIG. 1B shows a perspective cross-sectional view of the golf club head shown in FIGS. 1A-1B; FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element and a striking face with a thick central portion; FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element and a striking face with a thick central portion; FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting compression of the elastomeric element; FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting compression of the elastomeric element; FIG. FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of another example golf club head having an elastomeric element and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting compression of the elastomeric element; 4B shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 4A. FIG. FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of another example golf club having an elastomeric element and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting compression of the elastomeric element; FIG. 4 shows a stress contour map of a golf club head without elastomeric elements; FIG. 4 shows a stress contour plot of a golf club head having elastomeric elements; 1 shows a front view of a golf club head; FIG. 6B shows a side view of the toe side of the golf club head of FIG. 6A. FIG. 6B shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 6A along line AA. FIG. 6B shows a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 6A oriented perpendicular to the striking face; FIG. 6B shows a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 6A oriented perpendicular to the striking face, including supported areas; FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a golf club head; FIG. 7B shows an additional perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 7A; FIG. 7B shows a rear view of the golf club head of FIG. 7A. FIG. FIG. 7D shows a BB cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C. 7C shows a CC cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C. FIG. FIG. 7D shows a DD cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C. 7B shows an additional cross-sectional view of the front face of the golf club head of FIG. 7A, without the striking face; FIG. FIG. 9B shows the cross-sectional view of FIG. 9A with the deformable member removed. 7B illustrates a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 7A oriented perpendicular to the striking face including the supported area; FIG. 7D shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C including additional embodiments of elastomeric elements; FIG. 7D shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C including additional embodiments of elastomeric elements; FIG. 7D shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C including additional embodiments of elastomeric elements; FIG. 7D shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C including additional embodiments of elastomeric elements; FIG. 11B shows a periodogram power spectral density estimate for the golf club head shown in FIG. 11A; 11B shows acoustic output estimation for the golf club head shown in FIG. 11A. 11D shows a periodogram power spectral density estimate for the golf club head shown in FIG. 11D. FIG. 11D illustrates acoustic output estimates for the golf club head shown in FIG. 11D; Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element with a posterior portion larger than the anterior portion; Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element with a posterior portion larger than the anterior portion; Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element with a posterior portion larger than the anterior portion; Figure 14B shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to the elastomeric element of Figure 14A but including a first material and a second material. FIG. 14B shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to that of FIG. 14B but including a first material and a second material. FIG. 14D shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to that of FIG. 14C but including a first material and a second material. Figure 14B shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to that of Figure 14A, but with the anterior portion centered off the posterior portion. Figure 14B shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to that of Figure 14B but with the anterior portion centered off the posterior portion. Figure 14C shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to that of Figure 14C but with the anterior portion centered off the posterior portion. Fig. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element necked down between front and rear parts; Fig. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element necked down between front and rear parts; Figure 14J shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to the elastomeric element of Figure 14J but comprising a first material and a second material; 1 shows a rear view of a golf club head; FIG. 15B shows a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 15A; FIG. 15B shows another perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 15A; FIG. 15B shows a cross-sectional EE view of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. FIG. A cross-sectional EE view of the golf club head of FIG. 15A is shown without the adjustment driver and elastomeric elements installed. 15B shows a perspective view of the adjustment driver and elastomeric element of the golf club head of FIG. 15A; FIG. 15B shows another perspective view of the adjustment driver and elastomeric element of the golf club head of FIG. 15A; FIG. 15B shows a side view of the adjustment driver and elastomeric element of the golf club head of FIG. 15A; FIG. 15B shows a cross-sectional view of the adjustment driver and elastomeric element of the golf club head of FIG. 15A; FIG. 15B shows another perspective view of the adjustment driver and elastomeric element of the golf club head of FIG. 15A; FIG. 1 shows a rear view of a golf club head; FIG. 19 shows an exploded view of the golf club head of FIG. 18. FIG. FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head taken along line FF. GG shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head. 1 shows a front view of a golf club head, including supported areas; FIG. FIG. 13B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a golf club head and a second deformable member; 24 shows the second deformable member shown in FIG. 23; 25 shows a cross-sectional view FF of a golf club head including the second deformable member shown in FIGS. 23 and 24; FIG. FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head. 27 shows a side view of the golf club head of FIG. 26. FIG. FIG. 28 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head of FIG. 26, lacking the weight member, the second damping element, and the first damping element. FIG. 29 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head of FIG. 26, lacking the weight member and the second damping element. FIG. 30 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head of FIG. 26 with the weight member missing. FIG. 31 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 32 shows a cross-sectional view II of the golf club head of FIG. 27 with the weight member missing. FIG. 33 shows a cross-sectional view JJ of the golf club head of FIG. 34 shows a perspective view of a first damping element and a second damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 26; FIG. 35 shows additional perspective views of the first damping element and the second damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 26; 36 shows a perspective view of a second damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 26; FIG. 37 shows an additional perspective view of the second damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 26; FIG. FIG. 38 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head. 39 shows a side view of the golf club head of FIG. 38. FIG. FIG. 40 shows a cross-sectional view KK of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 41 shows a cross-sectional view LL of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 42 shows a detailed view of FIG. FIG. 43 shows a cross-sectional view MM of the golf club head of FIG. 38, missing the first damping element. 44 shows a perspective view of a second damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 38. FIG. FIG. 45 shows a cross-sectional view of an additional example of a golf club head. 46 shows a perspective view of the second damping element and the third damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 45. FIG. FIG. 47 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head. 48 shows a perspective view of section NN of the golf club head of FIG. 47. FIG. 49 shows a side view of section NN of the golf club head of FIG. 47. FIG. 50 shows a detailed view of the golf club head of FIG. 49. FIG. FIG. 51 shows a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 47 with the damping element missing. FIG. 52 shows a perspective view of section OO of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 53 shows a side view of section OO of the golf club head of FIG. 54 shows a perspective view of a damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 47. FIG. FIG. 55 shows an additional perspective view of damping elements of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. 56 shows a perspective view of section PP of the damping element of FIG. 54. FIG. 57 shows a side view of section PP of the damping element of FIG. 54. FIG. Figure 58 shows a detailed view of the damping element of Figure 57; FIG. 59 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head. FIG. 60 shows a side view of section QQ of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 61 shows an additional cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 59 including the golf club shaft and sixth damping element. FIG. 62 shows a cross-sectional view EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A including additional examples of deformable members. FIG. 63 shows a cross-sectional view EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A including additional examples of deformable members. FIG. 64 shows a cross-sectional view EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A including additional examples of deformable members. FIG. 65 shows a cross-sectional view EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A including additional examples of deformable members. FIG. 66 shows the deformable member and adjustment driver of the golf club head of FIG. 62; FIG. 67 shows a method of manufacturing a golf club head. FIG. 68 shows a perspective view of a golf club head. FIG. 69 shows a cross-sectional view RR of the golf club head of FIG. 68 without weight members. 70 shows a perspective view of cross-sectional view RR of the golf club head of FIG. 69. FIG. FIG. 71 shows a cross-sectional view SS of the golf club head of FIG. 68 without weight members and damping members. FIG. 72 shows a perspective view of a golf club head lacking a striking face and damping elements. FIG. 73 shows an additional perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 72 missing the striking face and dampening elements.

The technology described herein contemplates iron-type golf club heads that incorporate elastomeric elements to promote more uniform ball speed across the hitting face of the golf club. Traditional thin iron-type golf clubs generally produce uneven launch velocities across the striking face due to increased compliance at the geometric center of the striking face. For example, when a golf club hits a golf ball, the hitting face of the club flexes and then springs forward, accelerating the golf ball out of the hitting face. While such designs may increase the distance of a golf ball when hit at the center of the face, off-center hits of the golf ball result in a significant loss in distance of the golf ball. By comparison, a very thick face causes a more uniform ball flight regardless of striking position, but a significant loss in launch velocity. The technology incorporates an elastomeric element between the rear portion of the hollow iron and the rear surface of the striking face. Inclusion of the elastomeric element improves launch velocity uniformity across the striking face, although it would reduce the magnitude of the launch velocity for strikes in the center of the face. In some instances, the compression of the elastomeric element between the rear portion and the striking face may also be adjustable, allowing the golfer or golf club fitting professional to adjust the striking face when striking the golf ball. to make the deflection of the

1A-1B show cross-sectional views of a golf club head 100 with an elastomeric element 102. FIG. FIG. 1C shows a perspective cross-sectional view of golf club head 100 . FIGS. 1A-1C are described simultaneously. Golf club head 100 includes a striking face 118 and a rear portion 112 . A cavity 120 is formed between the striking face 118 and the rear portion 112 . Elastomeric element 102 is positioned within cavity 120 between striking face 118 and rear portion 112 . The rear portion of elastomeric element 102 is held in place by cradle 108 . A cradle 108 is attached to the rear portion 112 of the golf club head 100 and includes a recess 109 to accommodate the rear portion of the elastomeric element 102 . The lip of cradle 108 prevents elastomeric element 102 from slipping or otherwise becoming misaligned. Elastomeric element 102 may have a generally frusto-conical shape, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1B. In other examples, elastomeric element 102 may have a cylindrical, spherical, cuboidal, or prismatic shape. The recess 109 of the cradle 108 is shaped to substantially match the shape of the rear portion of the elastomeric element 102 . The back surface of elastomeric element 102 is in contact with the inner wall of recess 109 of cradle 108 . Cradle 108 may be welded or otherwise attached to rear portion 112, or cradle 108 may be formed as part of rear portion 112 during a casting or forging process. Rear portion 112 may also be machined to include cradle 108 .

Front portion 103 of elastomeric element 102 contacts rear surface 119 of striking face 118 . Front portion 103 of elastomeric element 102 may be held in place on rear surface 119 of striking face 118 by a locking mechanism. Flange 110 projects into cavity 120 from back surface 119 of striking face 118 . Flange 110 accommodates front portion 103 of elastomeric element 102 and substantially prevents elastomeric element 102 from sliding along rear surface 119 of striking face 118 . Flange 110 may partially or completely surround front portion 103 of elastomeric element 102 . Like cradle 108 , flange 110 conforms to the shape of front portion 103 of elastomeric element 102 so that the surface of front portion 103 of elastomeric element 102 contacts the inner surface of flange 110 . Flange 110 may be welded or otherwise attached to rear surface 119 of striking face 118 . Flange 110 may also be cast or forged during formation of striking face 118 . For example, if the striking face 118 is a face insert, the flange 110 may be incorporated into the face insert during casting or casting. In other examples, the flange 110 and striking face 118 may be machined from a thicker faceplate. Alternative securing structures other than flange 110 may also be used. For example, two or more struts may be included on the rear surface 119 of the striking face 118 around the perimeter of the front portion 103 of the elastomeric element 102 . As another example, an adhesive may be used to secure the elastomeric element 102 to the rear surface 119 of the striking face 118 . In other embodiments, no locking structure is utilized, and elastomeric element 102 is generally held in place by compression between cradle 108 and back surface 119 of striking face 118 .

In the example shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, elastomeric element 102 is positioned behind approximately the geometric center of striking face 118 . In a traditional thin-faced golf club, hitting at the geometric center of the striking face 118 produces the greatest displacement of the striking face 118 and thus the greatest ball velocity. Placing the elastomeric element 102 at the geometric center of the striking face 118 reduces the deflection of the striking face 118 at that point, resulting in reduced ball velocity. However, the portion of striking face 118 not lined by elastomeric element 102 continues to flex into cavity 120, increasing the velocity of the golf ball. In this manner, a more uniform distribution of ball velocity resulting from ball strikes across the hitting face 118 from heel to toe can be achieved. In other examples, elastomeric element 102 may be positioned elsewhere within golf club head 100 .

The resilience of elastomeric element 102 also affects the deflection of striking face 118 . For example, a material with a lower modulus of elasticity allows more deflection of the striking face 118 and achieves a higher maximum ball velocity, but with lower uniformity. In contrast, a material with a higher modulus of elasticity further prevents deflection of the striking face 118 and provides a more uniform ball velocity, although it achieves a lower maximum ball velocity. Various types of materials are discussed in more detail below with reference to Tables 2-3.

Golf club head 100 also includes sole 105 having sole channel 104 between front sole portion 114 and back sole portion 116 . Sole channel 104 extends along sole 105 of golf club head 100 from a point near the heel to a point near the toe. Although depicted as a hollow channel, sole channel 104 may be filled or spanned with plastic, rubber, polymer, or other material to prevent debris from entering cavity 120 . Sole channel 104 allows for further flexing of the lower portion of hitting face 118 . By allowing the lower portion of the striking face 118 to flex more, high ball velocities are achieved from ball strikes on the lower portion of the striking face 118, such as from turf strikes. Accordingly, elastomeric element 102 and sole channel 104 combine together to provide uniform ball velocity across striking face 118 while increasing the distance of the golf ball for turf striking.

2A-2B show cross-sectional views of a golf club head 200 having an elastomeric element 202 and a striking face 218 with a thick central portion 222. FIG. Golf club head 200 is similar to golf club head 100 discussed above with reference to FIGS. A thickened portion 222 of striking face 218 protrudes into cavity 220 . Front portion 203 of elastomeric element 202 contacts rear surface 219 of thickened portion 222 . The rear portion of elastomeric element 202 is received by recess 209 within cradle 208, which attaches to rear portion 212 and is substantially similar to cradle 108 discussed above with reference to FIGS. 1A-1C. Due to the thickened portion 222 of the striking face 218, the elastomeric element 202 may be shorter in length than the elastomeric element 102 in FIGS. 1A-1C. Golf club head 200 also includes sole channel 204 disposed between front sole portion 214 and rear sole portion 216 . Sole channel 204 also provides advantages similar to those of sole channel 104 described in FIGS. 1A-1C and may also be filled or covered with material.

3A-3B show cross-sectional views of a golf club head 300 having an elastomeric element 302 and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting compression of the elastomeric element 302. FIG. Golf club head 300 includes a striking face 318 and a rear portion 312 with a cavity 320 formed between the rear portion 312 and the striking face 318 . Similar to the golf club head 100 described above with reference to FIGS. 1A-1C, a flange 310 is located on the rear surface 319 of the striking face 318 and accommodates the forward portion 303 of the elastomeric element 302 . In the example shown in FIGS. 3A-3B, elastomeric element 302 has a generally cylindrical shape. However, in other examples, elastomeric element 302 may have a conical, frustoconical, spherical, cuboidal, or prismatic shape.

Golf club head 300 also includes an adjustment mechanism. The adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust the compression of elastomeric element 302 against back surface 319 of striking face 318 . In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A-3B, the adjustment mechanism includes adjustment housing 306 and adjustment driver 330 . The adjuster housing 306 may be structured with a through hole to the cavity 320 and the adjuster driver 330 may be a threaded piece or screw, as shown. The through bore of adjuster housing 306 includes a threaded inner surface for receiving threaded component 330 . Adjuster housing 306 may be formed as part of the forging or casting process of rear portion 312, or may be formed by machining and tapping subsequent to the forging and casting process. Threaded component 330 includes an interface 334 , such as a recess, that contacts or accommodates the rear portion of elastomeric element 302 . The threaded component 330 also includes a screw drive 332 that is at least partially exposed to the exterior of the golf club head 300 such that the screw drive 332 is accessible to the golfer. there is Via the screw drive 332, the threaded part 330 can be forced inside or outside the cavity 320 when the threaded part 330 is rotated, for example, by a screwdriver, Allen wrench, or torque wrench. Moving. In some examples, the interface 334 that contacts or houses the back surface of the elastomeric element 302 is lubricated so that the torsion of the elastomeric element 302 is reduced when the threaded component 330 is rotated. Or it is designed to prevent rotation. As threaded component 330 moves further within cavity 320, the compression of elastomeric element 302 against back surface 319 of striking face 318 increases, thereby changing the performance of elastomeric element 302. FIG.

The higher compression of elastomeric element 302 against back surface 319 of striking face 318 further limits the deflection of striking face 318 . Further restriction of deflection in turn causes a more uniform ball velocity across the striking face 318 . However, the deflection limit also reduces the maximum ball velocity from the center of the striking face 318 . By allowing the compression of the elastomeric element 302 to be adjusted with an adjustment mechanism, the golfer or golf club fitting professional may adjust the compression to suit the golfer's particular needs. For example, a golfer who desires greater maximum distance but does not require uniform ball velocity across striking face 318 may reduce the default compression of elastomeric element 302 by loosening threaded component 330 . In contrast, a golfer desiring ball velocity across striking face 318 can tighten threaded component 330 to increase the default compression of elastomeric element 302 .

Although the adjustment mechanism is shown in FIGS. 3A-3B as including a threaded component 330 and a threaded through hole, other adjustment mechanisms can be used to attach an elastomer to the back surface of the striking face 318. The compression of element 302 can be adjusted. For example, the adjustment mechanism may include a lever, and rotation of the lever may alter the compression of elastomeric element 302 . The adjustment mechanism may also include a depressible button to directly increase compression of elastomeric element 302 . Other types of adjustment mechanisms may also be used.

Golf club head 300 also includes a sole channel 304 between front sole portion 314 and back sole portion 316, similar to sole channel 104 described above with reference to FIGS. 1A-1C. Sole channel 304 also provides advantages similar to those of sole channel 104 and may also be filled or covered with material.

Golf club head 300 may also be manufactured or sold as a kit. In the illustrated example where the adjustment mechanism is a threaded component 330 such as a screw, the kit may include multiple threaded components 330 . Each threaded component 330 may have a different weight to allow the golfer to select the desired weight. For example, one golfer may prefer an overall lighter weight for the iron head, while another golfer may prefer a heavier weight. The plurality of threaded components 330 may also be configured to distribute the weight of each threaded component 330 along its length, if desired. The multiple threaded parts 330 may also vary in length. By varying the length, each threaded component 330 can have a maximum compression that can be applied to elastomeric element 302 . For example, a short threaded part 330 may not be able to apply as much force to the elastomeric element 302 as a longer one, depending on the configuration of the adjuster housing 306 . The kit may also include a torque wrench for attaching threaded component 330 to adjuster housing 306 . The torque wrench may include preset settings corresponding to different compression or performance levels.

FIG. 4A shows a perspective view of another example golf club head 400A having an elastomeric element 402 and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting compression of the elastomeric element 402. FIG. FIG. 4B shows a cross-sectional view of golf club head 400A. Golf club head 400A includes a striking face 418 and a rear portion 412 with a cavity 420 formed therebetween. Similar to the adjustment mechanism of FIGS. 3A and 3B, the adjustment mechanism of golf club head 400A includes adjustment housing 406 and adjustment driver 430 . In the illustrated example, the adjustment portion housing portion 406 is a structure having a threaded through hole for housing the adjustment driver 430, and the adjustment driver 430 is a screw. In some embodiments, adjuster housing 406 may be formed by a threaded through hole through rear portion 412 without requiring additional structure.

The tip of screw 430 contacts cradle 408A which holds the back of elastomeric element 402 . As screw 430 is rotated, lateral movement of screw 430 moves cradle 408A closer or further away. Accordingly, in some examples, screw 430 extends substantially perpendicular to rear surface 419 of striking face 418 . Since cradle 408A holds the back portion of elastomeric element 402, movement of cradle 408A changes the compression of elastomeric element 402 against back surface 419 of striking face 418. FIG. Thus, the compression of elastomeric element 402 may be adjusted by rotating screw 430 via screw drive 432, which is the threaded golf club head 300 shown in FIGS. 3A-3B. Operation of part 330 is similar.

FIG. 4C shows a cross-sectional view of another example golf club head 400C having an elastomeric element 402 and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting compression of the elastomeric element 402. FIG. Golf club head 400C is substantially similar to golf club head 400A shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, except that golf club head 400C has a relatively smaller cradle (eg, depth d of FIGS. 4A-4B). It has a depth D greater than the depth of the cradle 408B). Larger cradles 408C contain more elastomeric elements 402 than smaller cradles. By surrounding a larger portion of elastomeric element 402, cradle 408C further limits deformation of elastomeric element 402 upon impact of a golf ball with golf club head 400C. Limiting the deformation of the elastomeric element 402 also limits the maximum potential deflection of the striking face 418, thus reducing the maximum ball velocity of the golf club head 400C while increasing velocity uniformity across the striking face 418. obtain. Large cradle 408C does not contact back surface 419 of striking face 418 at its maximum deflection. The cradle 408C itself can be made of the same material as the rear portion 412, such as steel. Cradle 408C may also be made from titanium, composites, ceramics, or various other materials.

The size of cradle 408C can be selected based on desired ball speed characteristics. For example, cradle 408C may encompass about 25% or more of the volume of elastomeric element 402, as shown in FIG. In another example, cradle 408C can enclose approximately 25% to 50% of the volume of elastomeric element 402 . In still other examples, cradle 408C may enclose approximately 10% to 25% or less than approximately 10% of the volume of elastomeric element 402 . In still other examples, cradle 408C may encompass more than 50% of the volume of elastomeric element 402. FIG. For the portion of elastomeric element 402 enclosed by cradle 408C, substantially the entire peripheral surface of that portion of elastomeric element 402 may contact the inner surface of recess 409 of cradle 408C.

The connection between cradle 408C and adjustment driver 430 can also be seen more clearly in FIG. 4C. The tip of adjustment driver 430, which may be flat, contacts rear surface 407 of cradle 408C. Accordingly, as adjustment driver 430 moves into cavity 420 , cradle 408 C and elastomeric element 402 are pushed toward striking face 418 . Conversely, when adjustment driver 430 is retracted from cavity 420 , the force exerted by compression of elastomeric element 402 causes cradle 408 C to maintain contact with adjustment driver 430 . In some embodiments, the surface of the tip of screw 430 and/or the back surface of cradle 408C can be lubricated to prevent twisting of cradle 408C. In another example, the tip of adjustment driver 430 may be attached to cradle 408C such that cradle 408C twists with rotation of adjustment driver 430 . In such embodiments, elastomeric element 402 may be substantially cylindrical, conical, or spherical. In another example, the back surface 419 of the striking face 418 and/or the front surface of the elastomeric element 402 in contact with the back surface 419 of the striking face 418 may be lubricated, thereby lubricating the back surface of the striking face 418. Elastomeric element 402 can be rotated with respect to surface 419 .

Although golf club heads 400A and 400C, as shown, employ a continuous sole 414 rather than a sole channel like golf club head 300 of FIGS. 3A and 3B, other embodiments of golf club heads 400A and 400C are May contain a sole channel. Additionally, golf club heads 400A and 400C may also be sold as kits with multiple screws and/or torque wrenches, similar to the kits described above for golf club head 300 . An additional backplate may be added to the rear but leave some of the screws exposed for adjustment.

表１の結果から、エラストマーを有するゴルフクラブヘッド（例４）は、フェースの中心から比較的高いボールスピードを達成し、その一方でゴルフクラブのトウまたはヒールの近くでの打撃からのボール速度の損失が少ない。 Simulation results for different types of golf club heads further demonstrate ball speed uniformity across the face of golf club heads containing elastomeric elements. Table 1 shows sustained ball velocity across the face of the golf club head for several different exemplary golf club heads. Example 1 is a baseline hollow iron with a face thickness of 2.1 mm with a sole channel. Example 2 is a hollow iron with a 2.1 mm face with rigid rods extending from the rear to the striking face, which also includes a sole channel. Example 3 is a hollow iron with a thick center (6.1 mm) and thin perimeter (2.1 mm) striking face, also with a sole channel. Example 4 is a golf club head having elastomeric elements similar to golf club head 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-1C. The "middle" column shows ball velocities resulting from hits at the center of the golf club head, and the "1/2"heel" column shows ball velocities from hits half an inch from the center of the club head to the heel. Show loss. And the "1/2"toe" row shows the loss of ball velocity from a hit half an inch from the center of the club head toward the toe. All values in Table 1 are in miles per hour (mph).

From the results in Table 1, the golf club head with the elastomer (Example 4) achieves relatively high ball speeds from the center of the face, while reducing ball speeds from hits near the toe or heel of the golf club. less loss.

表２の結果から、エラストマー要素の材料の選択はゴルフクラブの性能を微調整するために使用することができる。表２に列挙された材料のいずれも、本技術で使用されるエラストマー要素を形成するのに使用するのに許容可できる。 Additionally, as noted above, the type of material utilized for any of the elastomeric elements discussed herein affects the displacement of the striking face. For example, an elastomeric element with a higher modulus resists compression of the hitting face and thus deflection of the hitting face, resulting in lower ball velocities. For example, for a golf club head similar to golf club head 400A, Table 2 shows ball velocities achieved by using materials with different elastic properties. All ball velocities are the result of hitting in the center of the face.

From the results in Table 2, the selection of materials for the elastomeric elements can be used to fine-tune the performance of the golf club. Any of the materials listed in Table 2 are acceptable for use in forming the elastomeric elements used in the present technology.

表３の結果から、より高い弾性率を有する材料は打撃フェース全体にわたってボール速度を良好に保持するけれども、フェースの中心での衝撃に対して最大ボール速度を失う。いくつかの用途では、約４～約１５ＧＰａのエラストマー要素の弾性率の範囲を使用することができる。他の用途では、約１～約４０または約５０ＧＰａのエラストマー要素の弾性率の範囲を使用することができる。 Different types of materials also affect ball velocity retention across the striking face. For example, for a golf club head similar to golf club head 400A, Table 3 shows ball velocities achieved across the striking face from heel to toe for different materials used as elastomeric elements. The materials referenced in Table 3 are the same materials as in Table 2. All speeds in Table 3 are in mph.

From the results in Table 3, materials with higher modulus retain ball velocity better across the striking face, but lose maximum ball velocity on impact at the center of the face. A range of elastic moduli of the elastomeric element from about 4 to about 15 GPa can be used in some applications. In other applications, a range of elastic moduli of the elastomeric element from about 1 to about 40 or about 50 GPa can be used.

As discussed above with reference to Figures 4A-4C, the size of the cradle can also affect ball speed. For a smaller cradle, such as cradle 408A of FIGS. 4A-4B, with an elastomeric element made of 13 GPa material, about 0.2 mph to center impact compared to the same club without the elastomeric element. loss is observed. A larger cradle, such as cradle 408C in FIG. 4C, about 5 mm deep, with an elastomeric element made from a 13 GPa material, has about a 0.0 to center impact compared to the same club without the elastomeric element. A loss of 4 mph is observed. With an elastomeric element made of 0.4 GPa material in a similar larger cradle, only about 0.2 mph loss on center impact is observed compared to the same club without the elastomeric element. .

San Diego Plastics, Inc., National City, Calif., offers several plastics with moduli ranging from 2.6 GPa to 13 GPa, all of which are acceptable for use. These plastics also have acceptable yield strengths for use in the golf club heads discussed herein. Table 4 lists several materials provided by San Diego Plastics and their respective modulus and yield strength values.

The inclusion of the elastomeric element also has the benefit of reducing the stress levels produced by the striking face surface upon impact with a golf ball, thereby improving the durability of the club face. FIG. 5A shows a stress contour plot of a golf club head 500A that does not include elastomeric elements. FIG. 5B shows a stress contour plot of a golf club head 500B having elastomeric elements. In golf club head 500A, the von Mises stress at the center of face 502A is approximately 68% of the maximum von Mises stress occurring at bottom face edge 504A. Without the elastomeric elements, the von Mises stress levels are high, indicating that the club face may be susceptible to fracture and/or premature deterioration. In golf club head 500B, for an elastomeric element having a modulus of elasticity of 0.41 GPa, the face von Mises stress near the edge of elastomeric element 502B is reduced by approximately 16%, and the maximum von Mises stress occurring at bottom face edge 504B is decrease by about 18%. Although these von Mises stresses are still relatively high, they are significantly reduced from those of golf club head 500A. For a golf club head 500B having an elastomeric element with a modulus of elasticity of approximately 13 GPa, the von Mises stress on the face near the edge of the elastomeric element 502B is reduced by approximately 50%, and the maximum von Mises stress occurring at the bottom face edge 504B is approximately 56%. %is decreasing. Such von Mises stress values are indicative of a more durable golf club head that is smaller and may be less likely to fail.

6A-6E show a golf club head 600 having an elastomeric element 602. FIG. FIG. 6A shows a front view of a golf club head 600. FIG. FIG. 6B shows a side view of the toe side of the golf club head 600 of FIG. 6A. FIG. 6C shows a cross-sectional AA view of the golf club head 600 of FIG. 6A. 6D shows a perspective view of the golf club head 600 of FIG. 6A oriented perpendicular to the striking face 618. FIG. FIG. 6E shows a perspective view of golf club head 600 of FIG. 6A oriented perpendicular to striking face 618 including supported area 642 . Golf club head 600 includes a striking face 618 configured to strike a ball, sole 605 located at the bottom of golf club head 600 , and rear portion 612 .

As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, golf club head 600 includes a coordinate system centered at the center of gravity (CG) of golf club head 600 . This coordinate system includes a y-axis that extends perpendicular to the ground when the head 600 is placed at an address position with a given lie and loft α. This coordinate system includes an x-axis that is perpendicular to the y-axis and parallel to the hitting face 618 and that extends toward the heel of the golf club head 600 . This coordinate system includes a z-axis that is perpendicular to the y- and x-axes and extends through striking face 618 . The golf club head 600 has a rotational moment of inertia about the y-axis (MOI-Y), which is a value that represents the golf club head's resistance to angular acceleration about the y-axis.

Elastomeric element 602 is positioned between striking face 618 and rear portion 612 . Striking face 618 includes back surface 619 . Front portion 603 of elastomeric element 602 contacts rear surface 619 of striking face 618 . As shown in FIGS. 6C and 6E, the striking face 618 includes a supported area 642, ie, the portion of the back surface 619 supported by the elastomeric element 602, defined as the area inside the supported area boundary 640. and the supported area boundary is defined by the outer extent of front portion 603 of elastomeric element 602 in contact with back surface 619 of striking face 618 . The supported area 642 is hatched in FIG. 6E. Supported area 642 is not normally visible from the front of golf club head 600, but has been added for illustrative purposes.

The hitting face 618 includes a hitting face area 652, which is defined as the area inside the hitting face perimeter 650 as shown in FIG. 6D. As shown in FIG. 6C, the hitting face perimeter is defined by an upper limit 654 and a lower limit 656 . Upper limit 654 is located at the intersection of substantially flat back surface 619 and upper radius 655 that extends to the topline of golf club head 600 . Lower limit 656 is located at the intersection of substantially flat back surface 619 and lower radius 657 that extends to sole 605 of golf club head 600 . The hitting face perimeter is similarly defined at the toe (not shown in cross section) of golf club head 600 (658). The heel portion around the hitting face 618 is defined by a plane 659 that extends parallel to the y- and x-axes and extends from the heel-most extent of a scoreline 660 formed on the hitting face 618 to the heel. It's 1 millimeter (mm) off. The striking face area 652 is shown hatched in FIG. 6D. Boundaries 654, 656 around the striking face are projected onto the striking face 618 for ease of illustration and understanding.

Multiple golf club heads very similar to the golf club head 600 described herein can be included in a set, each golf club head having a different loft α. Each golf club head may also have additional variable characteristics, which may include, for example, MOI-Y, striking face area, supported area area, and unsupported face percentage. The unsupported face percentage is calculated by dividing the area of the supported area by the area of the hitting face, multiplying by 100%, and subtracting it from 100%. An example set of iron-type golf club heads is included in Table 5 below. The set in Table 5 contains 21, 24, 27, and 30 lofts. Other sets may include a greater number of golf club heads and/or a wider range of loft alpha values, or may include fewer golf club heads and/or a smaller range of loft alpha values. Additionally, the set may include one or more golf club heads with elastomeric elements and one or more golf club heads without elastomeric elements.

Examples of additional example iron club head sets are included in Table 6 below.

All other properties held constant, higher MOI-Y values increase ball velocity for off-center hits. For low MOI-Y clubs, a larger unsupported face percentage can reduce off-center ball velocity loss. By supporting the face at a smaller percentage, more of the face is allowed to flex during impact, increasing off-center ball velocity. Thus, for the inventive golf club set described in Table 5 above, MOI-Y increases throughout the set as loft α increases, and unsupported face percentage decreases throughout the set as loft α increases. . This relationship provides for off-core ball velocity consistency through a set of golf clubs.

A set of golf clubs may include a first golf club head having a loft of 20 degrees to 24 degrees and a second golf club head having a loft of 28 degrees to 32 degrees. In one embodiment, the first golf club head has a greater unsupported face percentage than the second golf club head, such that the first golf club head has a lower MOI-Y than the second golf club head. You can configure the set.

More specific features of the embodiments described herein are described below. In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be greater than ^30mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be greater than ^40mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than ^60mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than ^65mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than 70 mm ² . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than ^73mm2 .

In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than ^140mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than ^1300mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than ^120mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than ^110mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than ^100mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than ^90mm2 . . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than ^85mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than ^80mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than ^75mm2 .

In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is greater than 70%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is greater than 75%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is greater than 80%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is greater than 85%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is greater than 90%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is greater than 95%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is greater than 96%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is greater than 97%.

In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 99.75%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 99.50%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 99.25%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 99.00%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 98.75%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 98.50%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 98.25%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 98.00%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 97.75%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 97.50%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 97.25%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 97.00%.

7A-10 show a golf club head 700 having an elastomeric element 702. FIG. FIG. 7A shows a perspective view of a golf club head 700. FIG. FIG. 7B shows an additional perspective view of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 7A. FIG. 7C shows a rear view of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 7A. FIG. 8A shows a cross-sectional view BB of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 7C. FIG. 8B shows a CC cross-sectional view of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 7C. FIG. 8C shows a DD cross-sectional view D of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 7C. FIG. 9A shows an additional perspective view of the front face of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 7A, with the striking face removed. FIG. 9B shows a cross-sectional view of FIG. 9A with the elastomeric element removed. FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of golf club head 700 of FIG. 7A oriented perpendicular to striking face 718 including supported area 742 . It should be noted that although the golf club head 700 shown in FIGS. 7A-10 is an iron-type cavity-back golf club, the inventions described herein are equally applicable to other types of golf club heads. sea bream.

Golf club head 700 includes deformable member 702 positioned between striking face 718 and rear portion 712 . In one embodiment, deformable member 702 is formed from an elastomer. Front portion 703 of elastomeric element 702 contacts rear surface 719 of striking face 718 . Striking face 718 includes a supported area 742 , the portion of back surface 719 supported by elastomeric element 702 , which is outside front portion 703 of elastomeric element 702 in contact with back surface 719 of striking face 718 . It is defined as the area inside the supported area perimeter 740 defined by the extent. Although the supported area 742 would not normally be visible from the front of the golf club head 700, FIG. 10 has been added for illustrative purposes.

The golf club head 700 shown in FIGS. 7A-10 is a cavity-back construction and includes a rearwardly extending perimeter 701 surrounding a striking face 718 . Perimeter 701 includes sole 705 , toe 706 and topline 707 . Periphery 701 may include weight pads 710 . Golf club head 700 also includes a rear portion 712 configured to support elastomeric element 702 .

Rear portion 712 includes a cantilevered support arm 762 secured to peripheral portion 701 . Support arm 762 can include a cradle 708 configured to hold elastomeric element 702 in place. Cradle 708 can include lip 709 configured to position elastomeric element 702 on cradle 708 against striking face 718 . A lip 709 can surround a portion of the elastomeric element 702 . Additionally, an adhesive may be used between the elastomer and cradle 708 to secure elastomeric element 702 to cradle 708 .

Support arm 762 extends from weight pad 710 located at the intersection of sole 705 and toe 706 of perimeter 701 toward supported area 742 . Support arm 762 is oriented substantially parallel to back surface 719 of striking face 718 . Support arm 762 may include ribs 764 to increase the stiffness of support arm 762 . A rib 764 may extend rearwardly from the support arm 762 substantially perpendicular to the back surface 719 of the striking face 718 . An advantage of cantilevered support arm 762 is that it provides a lower CG height than alternative beam designs such as the embodiment shown in FIG.

To provide a low CG height, the support arm 762 is cantilevered, meaning that it is only fixed to the perimeter 701 at one end of the support arm 762 . The support arms are such that the distance H between the highest portion of the support arm 762 and the ground plane GP when the golf club head 700 is placed at the address position is minimized as shown in FIG. Designed for optimal positioning. In one embodiment, H is less than or equal to 50mm. In another embodiment H is less than 45 mm. In another embodiment H is less than or equal to 40 mm. In another embodiment H is less than or equal to 35 mm. In another embodiment, H is less than or equal to 30mm. In another embodiment H is less than or equal to 29 mm. In another embodiment, H is less than or equal to 28mm.

In one example, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 25 mm or less. In other examples, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 24 mm or less. In other examples, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 23 mm or less. In other examples, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 22 mm or less. In other examples, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 21 mm or less. In other examples, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 20 mm or less. In other examples, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 19 mm or less. In other examples, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 18 mm or less.

Another advantage of the illustrated support arm 762 is that it provides a high MOI-Y due to its orientation. By concentrating mass at the heel and toe ends of golf club head 700, MOI-Y can be increased. Support arm 762 is angled to concentrate most of its mass near toe 706 , increasing MOI-Y relative to a more centrally located rear portion of golf club head 700 . In one embodiment, the MOI-Y of golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 200 kg-mm ² . In another embodiment, the MOI-Y of golf club head 700 is 210 kg-mm ² or greater. In other embodiments, the MOI-Y of golf club head 700 is 220 kg-mm ² or greater. In another embodiment, the MOI-Y of golf club head 700 is 230 kg-mm ² or greater. In another embodiment, the MOI-Y of golf club head 700 is 240 kg-mm ² or greater. In other embodiments, the MOI-Y of golf club head 700 is 250 kg-mm ² or greater. In another embodiment, the MOI-Y of golf club head 700 is 260 kg-mm ² or greater. In other embodiments, the MOI-Y of golf club head 700 is 270 kg-mm ² or greater.

The support arm 762 can include an arm centerline CL, which is oriented parallel to the back surface 719 of the striking face 718 and extends from the perimeter 701 along the center of the support arm 762, as shown in FIG. 8A. It extends toward the supported area 742 . Angle α is measured between ground plane GP and centerline CL. In one embodiment, angle α is greater than or equal to 5 degrees and less than or equal to 45 degrees. In another embodiment, the angle α is greater than or equal to 10 degrees and less than or equal to 40 degrees. In another embodiment, the angle α is greater than or equal to 15 degrees and less than or equal to 35 degrees. In another embodiment, the angle α is greater than or equal to 20 degrees and less than or equal to 30 degrees. In another embodiment, angle α is greater than or equal to 23 degrees and less than or equal to 28 degrees.

The support arm 762 can have an arm width AW measured perpendicular to the arm centerline CL and parallel to the back surface 719 of the striking face 718 . Arm width AW can vary along the length of support arm 762 . In embodiments, the arm width of at least a portion of the support arm is 6 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the arm width of at least a portion of the support arm is 8 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the arm width of at least a portion of the support arm is 10 mm or greater.

Support arm 762 can have an arm thickness AT measured perpendicular to back surface 719 of striking face 718 . Arm thickness AT can vary along the length of support arm 762 . In one embodiment, the arm thickness AT of at least a portion of the support arm is 2 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the arm thickness AT of at least a portion of the support arm is 3 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the arm thickness AT of at least a portion of the support arms is 4 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the arm thickness AT of at least a portion of the support arm is 5 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the arm thickness AT of at least a portion of the support arm is 6 mm or greater.

A rib 764 of the support arm 762 can have a rib width RW measured perpendicular to the arm centerline CL and parallel to the back surface 719 of the striking face 718 . The rib width RW can vary along the length of the rib. In one embodiment, the rib width RW of at least some of the ribs is 1 mm or more. In another embodiment, the rib width RW of at least some of the ribs is 2 mm or more. In another embodiment, the rib width RW of at least some of the ribs is 3 mm or more. In another embodiment, the rib width RW of at least some of the ribs is 4 mm or more.

Ribs 764 of support arm 762 can have a rib thickness RT measured perpendicular to back surface 719 of striking face 718 . Rib thickness RT can vary along the length of the rib. In one embodiment, the rib thickness RT of at least a portion of the ribs is 2 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the rib thickness RT of at least some of the ribs is 3 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the rib thickness RT of at least some of the ribs is 4 mm or greater. In another embodiment, at least some of the ribs have a rib thickness RT greater than or equal to 5 mm. In another embodiment, the rib thickness RT of at least some of the ribs is 6 mm or greater.

As shown in FIG. 10, supported area 742 is positioned on back surface 719 of striking face 718 . The hitting face heel reference surface 759 extends parallel to the y-axis and the z-axis and is positioned 1 mm from the heel side of the score line 760 formed on the hitting face 718 toward the heel. A geometric center 743 of the supported area 742 is measured in a toe direction from the hitting face heel reference plane 759 parallel to the ground plane GP and parallel to the hitting face 718 when the golf club head 700 is at the address position. is shifted by the supported region offset length SROL. In one embodiment, the supported region offset length SROL is greater than or equal to 20 mm. In another embodiment, the supported region offset length SROL is greater than or equal to 22 mm. In another embodiment, the supported region offset length SROL is greater than or equal to 24 mm. In another embodiment, the supported area offset length SROL is greater than or equal to 26 mm. In another embodiment, the supported area offset length SROL is greater than or equal to 27 mm. In another embodiment, the supported region offset length SROL is greater than or equal to 28 mm.

The striking face length SFL is measured parallel to the ground plane GP and parallel to the striking face 718 from the striking face heel reference surface 759 to the toe-most position of the striking face 718 when the golf club head 700 is positioned at the address position. be done. In one embodiment, the striking face length SFL is greater than or equal to 60mm. In another embodiment, the striking face length SFL is greater than or equal to 65mm. In another embodiment, the striking face length SFL is greater than or equal to 70mm. In another embodiment, the striking face length SFL is greater than or equal to 71 mm. In another embodiment, the striking face length SFL is greater than or equal to 72 mm. In another embodiment, the striking face length SFL is greater than or equal to 73 mm. In another embodiment, the striking face length SFL is greater than or equal to 74 mm.

In one embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is defined as the supported area offset length SROL divided by the striking face length SFL multiplied by 100%, and the supported area offset ratio is greater than or equal to 40%. . In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is greater than or equal to 41%. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is greater than or equal to 42%. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is greater than or equal to 43%. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is 44% or greater. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is greater than or equal to 45%. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is 46% or greater. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is greater than or equal to 47%. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is greater than or equal to 48%. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is greater than or equal to 49%. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is greater than or equal to 50%. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is greater than or equal to 51%.

A further advantage of incorporating supported area 742 is the ability to utilize a thinner striking face. In the illustrated embodiment, striking face 718 has a constant thickness. In other embodiments, the striking face can have a variable thickness. In one embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is 2.5 mm or less. In another embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is 2.4 mm or less. In another embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is 2.3 mm or less. In another embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is 2.2 mm or less. In another embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is 2.1 mm or less. In another embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is 2.0 mm or less. In another embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is 1.9 mm or less. In another embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is 1.8 mm or less. In another embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is 1.7 mm or less. In another embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is 1.6 mm or less. In another embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is 1.5 mm or less. In another embodiment, the thickness of the striking face is 1.4 mm or less.

11A-11D show the golf club head 700 of FIG. 7A with another embodiment of an elastomeric element 702. FIG. FIG. 11A shows a cross-sectional view of golf club head 700 with another embodiment of elastomeric element 702 . Elastomeric element 702 of FIG. 11A is circular, similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 7A. A forward portion 703 of the elastomeric element 702 abuts the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718 and has a front diameter FD, and a rear portion 744 abuts the cradle 708 and has a rear diameter RD. Front diameter FD is substantially similar or equal to rear diameter RD of elastomeric element 702 shown in FIG. 11A.

FIG. 11B shows a cross-sectional view of golf club head 700 including another embodiment of elastomeric element 702 . Elastomeric element 702 in FIG. 11B is circular. Front diameter FD is greater than rear diameter RD of elastomeric element 702 shown in FIG. 11B. A rear portion 744 of elastomeric element 702 that contacts cradle 708 includes a rear support area 747, which has an area.

FIG. 11C shows a cross-sectional view of golf club head 700 including another embodiment of elastomeric element 702 . Elastomeric element 702 of FIG. 11C is circular. Front diameter FD is greater than rear diameter RD of elastomeric element 702 shown in FIG. 11C.

11D shows a cross-sectional view of golf club head 700 including another embodiment of elastomeric element 702. FIG. Elastomeric element 702 in FIG. 11D is circular. Front diameter FD is greater than rear diameter RD of elastomeric element 702 shown in FIG. 11D. Additionally, rear portion 744 includes a constant diameter region 745 rearward of tapered region 746 extending toward striking face 718 . In one example, the rear diameter RD is about 12.5 mm and the front diameter FD is about 18.5 mm.

The enlarged front portion 703 and thus the enlarged supported area 742 provided by the embodiment of the elastomeric element 702 shown in Figures 11B, 11C and 11D has advantages. These benefits include more stable off-center ball velocities, especially reduced sound energy above 3800 Hz.

In one embodiment, the area of the supported area can be greater than 75 square millimeters. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than 100 square millimeters. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than 125 square millimeters. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than 150 square millimeters. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than 175 square millimeters. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than 200 square millimeters. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than 225 square millimeters. In other examples, the area of the supported area can be greater than 250 square millimeters. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than 255 millimeters2. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than 260 mm ² . In further examples, the area of the supported area can be greater than 50 square millimeters and less than 1000 square millimeters. In further examples, the area of the supported area can be greater than 100 square millimeters and less than 1000 square millimeters. In other examples, the area of the supported area can be greater than 150 square millimeters and less than 1000 square millimeters. In further examples, the area of the supported area can be greater than 200 square millimeters and less than 1000 square millimeters. In other examples, the area of the supported area can be greater than 250 square millimeters and less than 1000 square millimeters.

In one embodiment, the ratio of front diameter FD divided by rear diameter RD is greater than 1.2. In other embodiments, the ratio of front diameter FD divided by rear diameter RD is greater than 1.4. In other embodiments, the ratio of front diameter FD divided by rear diameter RD is greater than 1.6. In other embodiments, the ratio of front diameter FD divided by rear diameter RD is greater than 1.8. In other embodiments, the ratio of the front diameter FD divided by the back diameter RD is greater than 2.0. In other embodiments, the ratio of front diameter FD divided by rear diameter RD is greater than 3.0. In other embodiments, the ratio of front diameter FD divided by rear diameter RD is greater than 4.0.

In one embodiment, the area of supported area 742 is greater than the area of back support area 747 . In one embodiment, the ratio of supported area 742 divided by the area of back support area 747 is greater than 1.2. In a further embodiment, the ratio of supported area 742 divided by the area of back support area 747 is greater than 1.4. In other embodiments, the ratio of supported area 742 divided by the area of back support area 747 is greater than 1.6. In other embodiments, the ratio of supported area 742 divided by the area of back support area 747 is greater than 1.8. In other embodiments, the ratio of supported area 742 divided by the area of back support area 747 is greater than 2.0. In other embodiments, the ratio of supported area 742 divided by the area of back support area 747 is greater than 2.5. In other embodiments, the ratio of supported area 742 divided by the area of back support area 747 is greater than 3.0. In other embodiments, the ratio of supported area 742 divided by the area of back support area 747 is greater than 3.5. In other embodiments, the ratio of supported area 742 divided by the area of back support area 747 is greater than 4.0. In other embodiments, the ratio of supported area 742 divided by the area of back support area 747 is greater than 5.0. In other embodiments, the ratio of supported area 742 divided by the area of back support area 747 is greater than 6.0. In other embodiments, the ratio of supported area 742 divided by the area of back support area 747 is greater than 7.0. In other embodiments, the ratio of supported area 742 divided by the area of back support area 747 is greater than 8.0. In other embodiments, the ratio of supported area 742 divided by the area of back support area 747 is greater than 9.0. In other embodiments, the ratio of supported area 742 divided by the area of back support area 747 is greater than 10.0.

The contact energy absorption coefficient is defined as the ratio of the front face diameter FD divided by the diameter of the golf ball, which is approximately 42.75 mm. In one embodiment, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 0.1. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 0.2. In a further embodiment, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 0.3. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 0.4. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 0.5. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 0.6. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 0.7. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 0.8. In a further embodiment, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 0.9. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 1.0. In a further embodiment, the contact energy absorption coefficient is less than 0.2. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is less than 0.3. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is less than 0.4. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is less than 0.5. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is less than 0.6. In a further embodiment, the contact energy absorption coefficient is less than 0.7. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is less than 0.8. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is less than 0.9. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is less than 1.0.

In other embodiments, elastomeric element 702 may not be circular. They may have other shapes, including squares, rectangles, octagons, and the like.

The same golf club head with various elastomeric elements was subjected to acoustic testing to determine the effectiveness of different embodiments of elastomeric elements. The test was performed specifically with each club head striking a Titleist Pro V1 golf ball at a club head speed of impact of approximately 95 miles per hour. The acoustic properties of the examples shown in FIGS. 11A and 11D were recorded as each golf club head struck a golf ball. 12A and 12B reflect recordings of when a golf club head utilizing the cylindrical elastomeric element embodiment shown in FIG. 11A hits a golf ball, and FIGS. 13A and 13B are shown in FIG. 11D. 4 reflects the record of hitting a golf ball with a golf club head utilizing the tapered elastomeric element embodiment. FIG. 12A shows the periodogram power spectral density estimate for the cylindrical embodiment of FIG. 11A. FIG. 12B shows acoustic power estimates for the cylindrical embodiment of FIG. 11A. FIG. 13A shows the periodogram power spectral density estimate for the tapered embodiment of FIG. 11D. FIG. 13B shows acoustic power estimates for the tapered embodiment of FIG. 11D.

As shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the dominant frequency of cylindrical elastomeric element 702 of FIG. 11A is 4,279.7 HZ. As shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, the dominant frequency of tapered elastomeric element 702 of FIG. 11D is 4317.4 Hz. In general, when an iron-type golf club head hits a golf ball, the frequency of sound produced by the interaction of the golf club and the golf ball and the resonance of the golf ball at acoustic frequencies between about 1,000 Hz and 3,800 Hz. is produced, but acoustic frequencies above about 3,800 Hz are produced only by the golf club head. Thus, the first sound power peaks in the sound power estimation graphs of FIGS. 12B and 13B are primarily correlated with the golf ball, and subsequent sound power peaks are correlated with vibration of the hitting face of the golf club head. As shown in FIGS. 12B and 13B, the peak acoustic power estimate below 3,800 Hz corresponding to a golf ball is approximately 1.00×10 ⁻³ Watts. As shown in FIG. 12B, the acoustic power produced by a golf club head utilizing the cylindrical elastomeric element embodiment shown in FIG. 11A peaks at approximately 1.40×10 ⁻³ Watts. As shown in FIG. 13B, the acoustic power produced by a golf club head utilizing the tapered elastomeric element embodiment shown in FIG. 11D peaks at approximately 1.04×10 ⁻³ Watts. Sound power level directly correlates to the loudness of the sound produced by a golf club striking a golf ball. Thus, the sound produced by a golf club head utilizing the cylindrical elastomeric element embodiment shown in FIG. 11A would be produced by a golf club head utilizing the tapered elastomeric element embodiment shown in FIG. 11D. Noticeably smaller than sound.

Further, the acoustic power produced by a golf club head utilizing the cylindrical elastomeric element embodiment shown in FIG. 11A divided by the acoustic power produced by a golf ball is approximately 1.40. The acoustic power produced by a golf club head utilizing the cylindrical elastomeric element embodiment shown in FIG. 11D divided by the acoustic power produced by a golf ball is approximately 1.04. In some embodiments, the sound power produced by the golf club head divided by the sound power produced by the golf ball is preferably less than 1.50. In some embodiments, the sound power produced by the golf club head divided by the sound power produced by the golf ball is preferably less than 1.40. In some embodiments, the sound power produced by the golf club head divided by the sound power produced by the golf ball is preferably less than 1.30. In some embodiments, the sound power produced by the golf club head divided by the sound power produced by the golf ball is preferably less than 1.20. In some embodiments, the sound power produced by the golf club head divided by the sound power produced by the golf ball is preferably less than 1.10. In some embodiments, the sound power produced by the golf club head divided by the sound power produced by the golf ball is preferably less than 1.00.

Figures 14A-L show another example of an elastomeric element 702, also called a deformable element. These embodiments are designed with variable compressive stiffness, spring constant, or flexural modulus. This can be accomplished by combining different geometries and different co-molding materials of different durometers.

FIG. 14A shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element 702 having a posterior portion 744 that is larger than an anterior portion 703. FIG. Anterior portion 703 and posterior portion 744 are substantially planar. FIG. 14B shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element 702 having a posterior portion 744 that is larger than an anterior portion 703. FIG. The posterior portion 744 is substantially planar and the anterior portion 703 is hemispherical. FIG. 14C shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element 702 having a posterior portion 744 that is larger than an anterior portion 703. FIG. Elastomeric element 702 includes a front constant diameter region 746 and a rear constant diameter region 745 , with rear constant diameter region 746 having a larger diameter than front constant diameter region 745 . FIG. 14D shows a cross-sectional view of elastomeric element 702 similar to that of FIG. 14A but including first material 770 and second material 780. FIG. In one embodiment, first material 770 can be harder than second material 780 . In other embodiments, second material 780 can be harder than first material 770 . FIG. 14E is similar to FIG. 14E but shows a cross-sectional view of elastomeric element 702 including first material 770 and second material 780. FIG. FIG. 14F shows a cross-sectional view of elastomeric element 702 similar to FIG. 14F but including first material 770 and second material 780. FIG.

FIG. 14G shows a cross-sectional view of elastomeric element 702 similar to FIG. 14A, but with front portion 703 centered off the rear portion 744 center. The deviation can be directed to the topline, sole, toe, heel, or any combination thereof. FIG. 14H shows a cross-sectional view of elastomeric element 702 similar to that of FIG. FIG. 14I shows a cross-sectional view of elastomeric element 702 similar to FIG. FIG. 14J shows a cross-sectional view of elastomeric element 702 that is reduced in diameter between anterior portion 703 and posterior portion 744 . FIG. 14K shows a cross-sectional view of elastomeric element 702 that is reduced in diameter between anterior portion 703 and posterior portion 744 . FIG. 14L shows a cross-sectional view of elastomeric element 702 similar to that of FIG. 14A but including first material 770 and second material 780. FIG.

Any of these embodiments of the elastomeric element 702 described herein can be inverted so that the rear portion 744 abuts the back surface of the striking face and not the front portion. In a preferred embodiment, Figures 14A-14L are circular when viewed from the front view. In other embodiments, the elastomeric elements may include different shapes. In some embodiments, the flexural modulus of the first material can be greater than the flexural modulus of the second material.

15A-15D show a golf club head 800 having an elastomeric element 702. FIG. 15A shows a rear view of golf club head 800. FIG. FIG. 15B shows a perspective view of the golf club head 800 of FIG. 15A. FIG. 15C shows another perspective view of the golf club head 800 of FIG. 15A. FIG. 15D shows a cross-sectional view along line EE of golf club head 800 of FIG. 15A. FIG. 16 shows a cross-sectional view along line EE of golf club head 800 of FIG. 15 without adjustment driver 830 and elastomeric element 702 attached. 17A shows a perspective view of adjustment driver 830 and elastomeric element 702 of golf club head 800 of FIG. 15A. FIG. 17B shows another perspective view of the adjustment driver 830 and elastomeric element 702 of the golf club head 800 of FIG. 15A. figure. FIG. 17C shows a side view of adjustment driver 830 and elastomeric element 702 of golf club head 800 of FIG. 15A. FIG. 17D shows a cross-sectional view of the adjustment driver 830 and elastomeric element 702 of FIG. 17A. FIG. 17E shows another perspective view of the adjustment driver 830 and elastomeric element 702 of FIG. 17A.

As shown in FIGS. 15D and 16, golf club head 800 includes a striking face 818 having a back surface 819 . Golf club head 800 also includes a rear portion 812 configured to support elastomeric element 702 . Golf club head 800 is manufactured in a hollow body configuration, with rear portion 812 covering a substantial portion of the rear of golf club head 800 . Rear portion 812 is positioned behind striking face 818 and extends from heel 804 to toe 806 to form cavity 820 between topline 807 and sole 805 . Elastomeric element 702 is positioned within cavity 820 . The striking face 818 may be separately formed and welded to the remainder of the golf club head 800, as shown in FIG. 15D. More specifically, the separately formed hitting face portion may include a portion of the sole to form an L-shaped hitting face portion. In other embodiments, the striking face 818 can be integrally formed with the rest of the golf club.

Golf club head 800 includes an adjustment driver 830, much like adjustment driver 330 previously described and shown in FIGS. 3A-3C. Golf club head 800 also includes deformable member 702 positioned between striking face 818 and adjustment driver 830 . Deformable member 702 can take the form of any of the elastomeric elements described herein. Adjustment driver 830 is configured to hold elastomeric element 702 between adjustment driver 830 and striking face 818 , with front portion 703 of elastomeric element 702 contacting rear surface 819 of striking face 818 and elastomeric element 702 . The rear portion 744 of the contacts the adjustment driver 830 . Adjustment driver can include interface 834 configured to hold elastomeric element 702 . The interface 834 can include a recess having a lip 809 surrounding at least a portion of the elastomeric element 702 as shown in Figures 15 and 17A-17E.

The golf club head 800 can include an adjustment receiver 890 much like the adjustment receiver 306 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. As shown in FIG. 16, the adjuster housing 890 can include an opening formed in the rearward portion 812 of the golf club head 800 . The opening can include threads 893 . Adjustment housing 890 may include a housing ledge 895 that engages when adjustment driver 830 is attached to adjustment housing 890, as shown in FIG. 15D. Adjustment driver 830 can include threads 833 configured to engage threads 893 of adjustment housing 890, as shown in FIGS. 15D and 17A-17E. Additionally, the adjustment driver 830 can include a flange 835 configured to engage a receptacle ledge 895 of the adjustment receptacle 890 when the adjustment driver 830 is attached to the receptacle receptacle 890 . Receptacle ledge 895 and flange 835 ensure proper and consistent engagement of the elastomeric element with rear surface 819 of striking face 818 and provide the necessary support for optimum performance. While the adjustment driver 330 described above is configured to be adjustable after assembly, the preferred embodiment of the adjustment driver 830 shown in FIGS. , is configured to remain in that position. Receptacle ledge 895 and flange 835 ensure that adjustment driver 830 is consistently installed so that the elastomeric element properly and consistently engages back surface 819 of striking face 818 to provide the necessary support for optimum performance. help to ensure The adjustment driver 830 may also include a screw drive 832 configured to receive a tool and to rotate the adjustment driver 830 relative to the golf club head 800 . Finally, adjustment driver 830 can have a mass. In some examples, the mass of the golf club head can be adjusted by interchanging the adjustment driver 830 with another adjustment driver 830 having a different mass. Mass differences can be achieved by using different materials for different tuning drivers such as aluminum, brass, polymer, steel, titanium, tungsten. In another embodiment, not shown, a mass member is added to the adjustment driver to change the mass. In one embodiment, a mass member can be added to the recess of the adjustment driver. Additionally, mass members added to the recesses can be used to change the distance between the rear portion of the elastomeric element and the rear surface of the striking face to change the compression of the elastomeric element.

Figures 18-22 show a golf club head 900 similar to the golf club head 800 shown in Figures 15A-15D. However, golf club head 900 includes a second deformable member 702B in addition to first deformable member 702A. FIG. 18 shows a rear view of golf club head 900 . FIG. 19 shows an exploded view of the golf club head 900 of FIG. 20 shows cross-sectional views F-F of golf club head 900. FIG. FIG. 21 shows cross-sectional views GG of golf club head 900 . FIG. 22 shows a front view of the golf club head 900 of FIG. 18, which includes multiple supported regions.

As shown in FIGS. 18-22 , golf club head 900 includes a striking face 918 having a back surface 919 . Golf club head 900 also includes a rear portion 912 configured to support first deformable member 702A and second deformable member 702B. The first deformable member 702A can be the same as the elastomeric elements (deformable members) described above. First deformable member 702A and second deformable member 702B may each employ any form of elastomeric element described herein. They may have the same shape or different shapes. Golf club head 900 is made of a hollow body construction, with rear portion 912 covering a substantial portion of the rear portion of golf club head 900 . Rear portion 912 is located behind striking face 918 and extends from heel 904 to toe 906 between topline 917 and sole 905 to form cavity 920 . In the preferred illustrated embodiment, the first deformable member 702A is spaced from the second deformable member 702B and is not in contact with the second deformable member 702B. In an alternate embodiment, the first deformable member 702A may be in close, spaced contact with the second deformable member 702B.

Golf club head 900, like golf club head 800, includes an adjustment driver 830 configured to hold first deformable member 702A. Anterior portion 703A of first deformable member 702A contacts back surface 919 of striking face 918 . A rear portion 912 of golf club head 900 includes a rear cover 913 . In the illustrated embodiment, rear cover 913 includes recess 915 . A front portion 703B of second deformable member 702B is configured to hold second deformable member 702B in contact with back surface 919 of striking face 918 . Rear cover 913 also includes opening 914 for adjustment driver 830 . In one implementation, the second deformable member is attached to the rear cover 913 with an adhesive. Additionally, the rear cover 913 may be attached to the remainder of the golf club head 900 with an adhesive, which may be, for example, double-sided tape. In one embodiment, the hitting face 918 of the golf club head 900 is made from a high density material such as steel, while the rear cover 913 is made from a low density material such as plastic, which is made of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. may include In alternative embodiments, the rear cover may also be made of high density material.

As shown in FIG. 22, the striking face includes multiple supported areas. A first supported area 742A is formed by the portion of the back surface 919 of the striking face 918 that is supported by the first deformable member 702A, which contacts the back surface 919 of the striking face 918 during the first deformation. It is defined by the inner area of the first supported area perimeter 740A defined by the outer extent of the forward portion 703A of the capable member 702A. A second supported area 742B is formed by the portion of the back surface 919 of the striking face 918 that is supported by the second deformable member 702B, which contacts the back surface 919 of the striking face 918 during the second deformation. It is defined by the inner area of the second supported area perimeter 740B defined by the outer extent of the forward portion 703B of the capable member 702B. First supported region 742A and second supported region 742B are not normally visible from the front of golf club head 900, but have been added to FIG. 22 for illustrative purposes.

A first geometric center 743A of the first supported area 742A is offset from the hitting face heel reference plane 959 in the toe direction by an offset length SROL1. However, it is measured parallel to the ground, parallel to the striking face 918, and with the golf club head 900 positioned at the address position. A second geometric center 743B of the second supported area 742B is offset from the striking face heel reference plane 959 in the toe direction by a second supported area offset length SROL2. However, it is measured parallel to the ground, parallel to the striking face 918, and with the golf club head 900 positioned at the address position.

In a preferred embodiment, SROL1 is approximately 36.0 mm and SROL2 is approximately 17.6 mm. In the preferred embodiment, SROL1 is greater than SROL2. In the preferred embodiment, SROL1 divided by SROL2 is greater than 1.0. In the preferred embodiment, SROL1 divided by SROL2 is greater than 1.25. In a preferred embodiment, SROL1 divided by SROL2 is greater than 1.50. In the preferred embodiment, SROL1 divided by SROL2 is greater than 1.75. In the preferred embodiment, SROL1 divided by SROL2 is greater than 2.0. In an alternative embodiment not shown, although not shown, ROL2 is greater than SROL1.

In one embodiment, the first deformable member 702A is made of the same material as the second deformable member 702B and thus has the same hardness. In another embodiment, first deformable member 702A is made of a material having a higher hardness than the material of second deformable member 702B. In an alternative embodiment, the material of first deformable member 702A has a lower elastic modulus than the material of second deformable member 702B. In one embodiment, the first deformable member 702A has a Shore A 50 durometer and the second deformable member has a Shore A 10 durometer. In one embodiment, the first deformable member 702A has a Shore A durometer greater than 25 and the second deformable member has a Shore A durometer less than 25.

The first deformable member may be housed, structured, or supported in the same manner as the second deformable member, and the second deformable member may be housed, structured, or supported in the same manner as the first deformable member. or supported. Additionally, the first deformable member and the second deformable member can be housed, structured, or supported in any manner described herein.

FIG. 23 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a golf club head 900 and second deformable member 702C. A second deformable member 702C is shown in exploded form behind golf club head 900 . FIG. 24 shows the second deformable member 702C shown in FIG. FIG. 25 shows cross-sectional views F-F of golf club head 900 including second deformable member 702C shown in FIGS. A rear portion 912 of golf club head 900 includes an opening 930 configured to receive second deformable member 702C or second deformable member 702B. Second deformable member 702C engages around opening 930 in rear portion 912 of golf club head 900, as shown in FIGS. It includes an annular groove 940 configured to secure. A portion of second deformable member 702C may be configured to deform when attached to opening 930 of golf club head 900 until groove 940 engages opening 930 .

Additional examples of golf club heads incorporating various damping elements are described below, many of which are applied to the backside of the striking face. The dampening elements described below may comprise any of the deformable members or elastomers described herein, including their materials, properties, shapes and characteristics, as well as additional details described below. The dampening element helps reduce vibrations and improve sound produced when the golf club head hits the golf ball by making it more comfortable to the golfer's ears.

Figures 26-33 illustrate additional examples of golf club heads 700 having first damping elements 702A and second damping elements 702D. FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of golf club head 700 . FIG. 27 shows a side view of the golf club head 700 of FIG. FIG. 28 shows a cross-sectional view HH of golf club head 700 of FIG. 26, lacking weight member 710, second damping element 702D, and first damping element 702A. FIG. 29 shows a cross-sectional view HH of golf club head 700 of FIG. 26, lacking weight member 710 and second damping element 702D. FIG. 30 shows a cross-sectional view HH of golf club head 700 of FIG. 26, lacking weight member 710 . FIG. 31 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head 700 of FIG. FIG. 32 shows a cross-sectional view II of golf club head 700 of FIG. 27, lacking weight member 710 . FIG. 33 shows a cross-sectional view JJ of the golf club head 700 of FIG. Figures 34 and 35 show perspective views of the first damping element 702A and the second damping element 702D. Figures 36 and 37 show perspective views of the second damping element 702D.

The golf club head 700 shown in FIGS. 26-33 is an iron having a cavity-back construction and includes a peripheral portion 701 that surrounds and extends rearwardly from the striking face 718 . Peripheral portion 701 includes sole 705 , toe 706 and topline 707 . The peripheral portion 701 may also include weight members 710 . The peripheral portion can also include a rear portion 712 that can partially surround the cavity 720, as shown in FIG. In other embodiments, the rear portion can substantially surround the cavity, as shown in Figure 15A. A peripheral portion 701 of golf club head 700 may include cantilevered support arms attached to and extending from sole 705 . As shown in FIG. 28, support arm 762 may extend substantially parallel to striking face 718 . As shown in FIG. 29, the golf club head 700 may include a first damping element 702 A positioned between the back surface 719 of the striking face 718 and the cantilever support arm 762 . As shown in FIG. 26, the first dampening element 702A includes a front surface 703A (FIG. 20) that contacts a central portion of the striking face 718. As shown in FIG. Damping element 702A can support striking face 718 and provide damping properties, as described above. In other embodiments, the rear portion can substantially surround the cavity, as shown in Figure 15A. In such embodiments, the first damping element may be positioned between the back and rear portions of the striking face.

As shown in FIGS. 26 and 30-33, the golf club head may include a second damping element 702D, which in FIGS. 36 and 37 alone. As shown, a portion of the second damping element 702D can be positioned between the back surface 719 of the striking face 718 and the support arm 762. The second damping element 702D can be positioned further away from the geometric center of the striking face 718 than the first damping element 702A. More specifically, the second dampening element 702D can be positioned near the sole 705. As shown in FIG. The second damping element 702D includes a front surface 703B (FIG. 21) that contacts the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718 and a rear surface 781 that contacts the support arm 762. As shown in FIG. The second damping element 702D may include a toe portion 782 that extends forward of the support arm 762. As shown in FIG. The second damping element 702D may include a heel portion 783 extending in the heel direction of the support arm 762. As shown in FIG. The second dampening element 702D may include a rear portion 784 that extends around the support arm 762 and forms a cavity 785 configured to receive the support arm. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 31, the golf club head may include weight members 710 spaced rearwardly of the support arms, with the rearward portion 784 of the second damping element 702D being , may be positioned between the weight member 710 and the support arm 762 . Weight member 710 may be integrally formed with another portion of golf club head 700 or may be a different material coupled to golf club head 700 . The second damping element 702D may include a relief 786 formed on top of the first damping element 702A and configured to complement the shape of the first damping element 702A. The second damping element 702D is deformable and can be formed of an elastomeric material that provides damping properties. In one embodiment, first damping element 702A has a higher modulus of elasticity than second damping element 702D. In an alternative embodiment, second damping element 702D has a higher modulus of elasticity than first damping element 702A. In yet another embodiment, first damping element 702A has substantially the same elastic modulus as second damping element 702D.

In addition to the materials already disclosed, the damping element, and more specifically the second damping element 702D, may comprise damping foam. In one embodiment, the second dampening element 702D can be formed separately from the golf club head and subsequently attached. In other embodiments, the second dampening element 702D can be co-molded with the golf club head to specifically match the shape of that particular club. In other embodiments, the second damping element 702D may be specially selected or shaped to meet the specific shape of a particular golf club head.

In an alternative embodiment, although not shown, the first damping element 702A and the second damping element 702D are single damping elements such that a single damping element includes features of both the first and second damping elements. It can be monolithically formed from one piece of material. In still other embodiments, multiple pieces of material can have first and/or second damping elements.

38-42 show additional examples of golf club heads 700 with first damping elements 702A and second damping elements 702E. FIG. 38 shows a perspective view of golf club head 700 . FIG. 39 shows a side view of golf club head 700 of FIG. FIG. 40 shows a cross-sectional view KK of the golf club head 700 of FIG. FIG. 41 shows a cross-sectional view LL of the golf club head 700 of FIG. FIG. 42 shows a detailed view of FIG. FIG. 43 shows a cross-sectional view MM of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 38 with the first damping element 702A missing. FIG. 44 shows a perspective view of the second damping element 702E of the golf club head 700 of FIG.

The golf club head 700 shown in FIGS. 38-43 includes a first damping element 702A similar to that previously described and shown in FIGS. 26-33 and the golf club shown in FIGS. It includes an embodiment of a second damping element 702E that is different from the head. A second dampening element 702E may be affixed to the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718. As shown in FIG. In some embodiments, the second dampening element 702E can be secured to the striking face via adhesive 711. Adhesive 711 may be double-sided tape such as 3M very high adhesive tape, epoxy, adhesive, or mechanical adhesive such as fasteners, rivets, backing plates, and the like. As shown, at least a portion of the second damping element 702E can be positioned below the first damping element 702A. The second damping element 702E can extend in the toe direction of the first damping element 702A and the heel direction of the first damping element 702A, substantially from heel 704 to toe 706, as shown in FIG. It's good to extend. The second damping element 702E can have a relief configured to complement the shape of the first damping element 702A. In an alternate embodiment, the second damping element 702E can cover most of the back surface 719 of the striking face 718 that is not covered by the first damping element 702A.

As shown in FIG. 44, a cover 717 can be attached to the outer surface of the second damping element 702E. The outer surface of the second damping element 702E is located opposite the striking face 718 of the second damping element 702E. In one embodiment, the thickness of cover 717 is less than the thickness of second damping element 702E. In one embodiment, the modulus of elasticity of cover 717 is greater than the modulus of elasticity of second damping element 702E. In one embodiment, the hardness of cover 717 is greater than the modulus of elasticity of second damping element 702E.

The golf club head 700 of FIGS. 38-43 also includes a medallion 790 that improves the appearance of the golf club head 700. As shown in FIG. Additionally, the medallion 790 can improve the damping quality of the golf club head 700 . 38, 40, 41 and 42, a first portion 791 of the medallion 790 is adhered to the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718 and a second portion 792 is spaced apart from the striking face 718 and attached to the support arm 762. Extends rearward on the back. In one embodiment, a third damping element 702F is positioned between the back of support arm 762 and medallion 790, as shown in FIGS.

45 shows a cross-sectional view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head 700. FIG. FIG. 46 shows a perspective view of second damping element 702G and third damping element 702H of golf club head 700 of FIG. Golf club head 700 includes first damping element hidden behind medallion 790, second damping element 702G, and third damping element 702H. Second damping element 702G is located on rear surface 719 of hitting face 718, except that second damping element 702G also has a second portion 779 extending rearwardly along sole 705 from hitting face 718 in this embodiment. It is very similar to damping element 702E of FIGS. 33-44 in that it has portion 796 of . In one embodiment, the golf club head 700 may also include a third damping element 702H similar to the second damping element 702F, except covering an upper portion of the back surface 719 of the hitting face 718. In one embodiment, third dampening element 702H is positioned between back surface 719 of striking face 718 and medallion 790 . The third damping element 702H can include a relief configured to complement the shape of the first damping element 702A. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the second damping element 702G and the third damping element 702H are single damping elements such that a single damping element includes features of both the second and third damping elements. It can be monolithically formed from one piece of material. In yet another embodiment, two or more pieces of material may include second and/or third damping elements.

Further, with particular reference to FIGS. 26-46, each of the golf club head embodiments described herein does not include the first damping element, but the second damping element described herein. and/or may include a third damping element. Additionally, any combination of damping elements described herein may form a single damping element that combines the features of each damping element described herein.

One goal of the damping elements described herein is to dissipate energy in the golf club head after striking the golf ball. As the striking face and other parts of the golf club head vibrate, damping elements in contact with those surfaces can dissipate energy. This can alter the sound produced by the golf club head by reducing the loudness and/or duration of the sound produced when the golf club head hits the golf ball. The damping elements, elastomers, and deformable members described herein can be formed of viscoelastic materials. Tan δ represents the ratio of the viscous to elastic response of the viscoelastic material, which is the energy dissipation potential of the viscoelastic material. The higher the Tan δ, the more dissipative the material. More specifically, Tan δ = E″/E′, where E″ is the loss modulus, representing the energy dissipated by the system, and E′ is the storage modulus, representing the energy dissipated by the system. represents the energy stored in Tan δ varies with temperature and frequency of vibration. The damping elements described herein are preferably formed from a viscoelastic material having a peak Tan δ between 3 kHz and 9 kHz, more preferably between 5 kHz and 7 kHz within a temperature range of 200°C to 500°C. In some embodiments, the damping elements may be formed of different viscoelastic materials, where one damping element has a Tan δ that peaks at a higher frequency than another. 26-37, a first damping element 702A is formed of a first viscoelastic material, a second damping element 702D is formed of a second viscoelastic material, and a second damping element 702D is formed of a second viscoelastic material. Tan δ of one viscoelastic material peaks at a first frequency, Tan δ of a second viscoelastic material peaks at a second frequency, the first frequency being lower than the second frequency. This particular configuration allows the first damping element to better dampen the vibrations of the striking face and the second damping element to better dampen the vibrations of the support arm.

47-58 illustrate additional embodiments of golf club heads 1000 that include dampening elements 1002. FIG. 47 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head 1000. FIG. FIG. 48 shows a perspective view of section NN of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. FIG. 49 shows a side view of section NN of golf club head 1000 of FIG. FIG. 50 shows a detailed view of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. FIG. 51 shows a perspective view of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. 47, lacking the damping element 1002. FIG. FIG. 52 shows a perspective view of section OO of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. FIG. 53 shows a side view of section OO of golf club head 1000 of FIG. FIG. 54 shows a perspective view of damping element 1002 of golf club head 1000 of FIG. FIG. 55 shows an additional perspective view of damping element 1002 of golf club head 1000 of FIG. FIG. 56 shows a perspective view of section PP of damping element 1002 of FIG. FIG. 57 shows a side view of section PP of damping element 1002 of FIG. FIG. 58 shows a detailed view of damping element 1002 of FIG.

Golf club head 1000 includes a striking face 1018 having a rear surface 1019 . Golf club head 1000 includes a rear portion 1012 configured to support damping element 1002 . The illustrated golf club head 1000 is a hollow body structure, and the rear portion 1012 covers a substantial portion of the rear portion of the golf club head 1000 . Rear portion 1012 is located behind striking face 1018 and extends from heel 1004 to toe 1006 between topline 1017 and sole 1005 to form cavity 1020 . .

As shown in FIGS. 51-53, the rear portion 1012 of the golf club head 1000 can include an opening 1013. As shown in FIGS. Opening 1013 can be surrounded by ledge 1014 . Aperture 103 is configured to receive damping element 1002 and ledge 1014 is configured to engage and retain damping element 1002, which is shown in FIGS. 48-50.

As shown in FIGS. 54-57, damping element 1002 includes outer portion 1103 and damping portion 1104 . Outer portion 1103 is primarily behind rear portion 1012 of golf club head 1000 . The damping portion 1104 resides primarily within the golf cavity 1020 . Club head 1000 is configured to abut rear surface 1019 of striking face 1018, as shown in FIGS. 48-50. A channel 1105 is formed between the outer portion 1103 and the damping portion 1104 and the channel 1105 is configured to engage a ledge 1014 on the rear portion 1012 of the golf club head 1000 . 48, 49, 55, and 57, damping element 1002 can include a recess formed inside damping portion 1104 and extending to outer portion 1103. In FIGS. In an alternate embodiment, not shown, dampening element 1002 may not include indentations 1106 .

An outer portion 1103 of damping element 1002 may include a flange surface 1107 configured to abut ledge 1014 of golf club head 1000 . Outer portion 1103 can also include an outer surface 1108 opposite flange surface 1107 . Being an exterior, it is aesthetically appealing to golfers and is designed to replace traditional medallions. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 50, the adhesive 1112 can be between the front flange surface 1107 of the front damping element 1002 and the ledge 1014 of the front rear portion 1012 .

As shown in FIGS. 48-50, at least a portion of damping portion 1104 of damping element 1002 resides between ledge 1014 and rear surface 1019 of striking face 1018 and contacts both ledge 1014 and the rear surface. there is As shown in FIG. 58, damping portion 1104 of damping element 1002 has a front surface 1109 configured adjacent back surface 1019 of striking face 1018 and a back surface 1110 configured adjacent ledge 1014. can include

In the illustrated embodiment, damping portion 1104 and outer portion 1103 of the damping element are monolithically formed of the same material. In other not shown embodiments, the damping portion 1104 and the outer portion 1103 can be made of different materials and secured together. Damping portion 1104, and thus, in a preferred embodiment, damping element 1102 as a whole, can be formed from any of the materials disclosed herein when referring to damping elements, deformable members, and elastomers. These materials may also include silicone with a Shore A durometer of about 50-70, which has a compression set of about 10%, 70 hours at 212 degrees Fahrenheit, and a tensile strength of about 1400 psi. good. Damping element 1102, like other damping elements, deformable members, and elastomers described herein, is configured to deform as striking face 1018 deforms upon impact with a golf ball. As shown in FIG. 58, the damping portion 1104 can also include reliefs 1111 configured to assist the ability of the damping portion 1104 to deform and absorb energy during impact.

As shown in FIG. 50, the striking face can have a central unsupported area 1016 surrounded by support areas 1015 . Support area 1015 is defined by the portion of rear surface 1019 of striking face 1018 that contacts front surface 1109 of damping portion 1104 . A central non-support area 1016 is defined by the portion of the back surface 1019 of the striking face 1018 that is centrally located in the support area 1015 .

In one example, the central unsupported area 1016 can be greater than 100 mm ² . In other examples, the central unsupported area 1016 can be greater than 200 mm ² . In still other examples, the central unsupported area 1016 can be greater than 300 mm ² . In other examples, the central unsupported area 1016 can be greater than 400 mm ² . In other examples, the central unsupported area 1016 can be greater than 500 mm ² . In one example, the support area 1015 can be less than 300 mm ² . In one example, the support area 1015 can be less than 250 mm ² . In other embodiments, the support area 1015 can be less than 200mm ² . In other embodiments, the support area 1015 can be less than 150 mm ² . In additional embodiments, the support area 1015 may be less than 125 mm ² . In other embodiments, the support area 1015 may be less than ^100mm2 . In one embodiment, the ratio of central non-support area 1016 divided by support area 1015 is greater than or equal to 1.0. In other embodiments, the ratio of central non-supporting area 1016 divided by supporting area 1015 is greater than or equal to 1.5. In one embodiment, the ratio of central non-support area 1016 divided by support area 1015 is greater than or equal to 2.0. In one embodiment, the ratio of central non-support area 1016 divided by support area 1015 is greater than or equal to 2.5. In one embodiment, the ratio of central non-support area 1016 divided by support area 1015 is greater than or equal to 3.0. In one embodiment, the ratio of central non-support area 1016 divided by support area 1015 is greater than or equal to 3.5. In one embodiment, the ratio of central non-support area 1016 divided by support area 1015 is greater than or equal to 4.0. In one embodiment, the ratio of central non-support area 1016 divided by support area 1015 is greater than or equal to 4.5. In one embodiment, the ratio of central non-support area 1016 divided by support area 1015 is greater than or equal to 5.0.

59 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head 1000. FIG. FIG. 60 shows a side view of section QQ of golf club head 1000 of FIG. The golf club head 100 shown in Figures 59 and 60 includes several additional features. In one embodiment, golf club head 1000 includes second damping element 1120 . In the illustrated embodiment, the second damping element 1120 is an O-ring shaped elastomer that resides between the striking face 1018 and the rear portion 1012 . Second damping element 1120 can form a continuous loop surrounding damping element 1002 . In some embodiments, the rear portion can include a relief configured to receive a portion of the second damping element.

In one example, the golf club head can include a third damping element 1130 . The third damping element is located between the outer portion 1103 and the rear portion of the golf club head, the top (shown in FIG. 60), the bottom (shown in FIG. 60), and the heel side (not shown) of the damping element 1102. , and around the toe side (not shown).

In one embodiment, golf club head 1000 includes fourth damping element 1140 . A fourth damping element 1140 can be in the recess 1106 of the damping element 1102 . In one example, the fourth damping element 1140 can include hot melt. In other examples, elastomers can be included. In another example, it can include rubber. In other examples, it can include foam. In other examples, fourth damping element 1140 can be softer than damping element 1002 and thus have a lower hardness value. In one example, the fourth dampening element 1140 can be made of silicone.

In one embodiment, golf club head 1000 includes fifth damping element 1150 . The golf club head may include a slot configured to receive a fifth dampening element 1150, preferably rubber. In one example, the slot can be formed in the rear portion 1112 of the golf club head. In other examples, slots can be formed in one or more of the back portion 1112 , topline 1007 , toe 1006 and sole 1005 .

61 shows an additional cross-sectional view of golf club head 1000 of FIG. 59, including golf club shaft 1089 and sixth damping element 1160. FIG. Hosel 1098 of the golf club head includes a hosel bore 1099 configured to receive shaft 1089 . In one embodiment, hosel bore 1099 can also receive sixth damping element 1160 . This can take the form of a plug as shown in FIG.

Figures 62-65 illustrate additional embodiments of the deformable member 702 of the golf club head 800 shown in Figures 15A-15E previously described. 62 shows a cross-sectional view EE of golf club head 800 of FIG. 15A, which includes another embodiment of deformable member 702. FIG. 63 shows a cross-sectional view EE of golf club head 800 of FIG. 15A, which includes another embodiment of deformable member 702. FIG. 64 shows a cross-sectional view EE of golf club head 800 of FIG. 15A, which includes another embodiment of deformable member 702. FIG. 65 shows a cross-sectional view EE of golf club head 800 of FIG. 15A, which includes another embodiment of deformable member 702. FIG. FIG. 66 shows deformable member 702 and adjustment driver 830 of golf club head 800 of FIG.

As shown in FIGS. 62-65, golf club head 800 includes a striking face 818 having a rear surface 819 . Golf club head 800 also includes a rear portion 812 configured to support deformable member 702 . Golf club head 800 is made of a hollow body construction. The rear portion 812 covers a substantial portion of the rear portion of the golf club head 800 . Rear portion 812 is located behind striking face 818 and extends between topline 807 and sole 805 to form a heel-toe cavity 820 . Deformable member 702 is positioned within cavity 820 .

The rear portion of golf club head 800 includes adjustment driver 830 . Deformable member 702 is positioned between striking face 818 and adjustment driver 830 . Adjustment driver 830 is configured to hold elastomeric element 702 between adjustment driver 830 and striking face 818 such that front portion 703 of elastomeric element 702 contacts rear surface 819 of striking face 818 and rear portion 744 of elastomeric element 702 contacts rear surface 819 of striking face 818 . is in contact with adjustment driver 830 .

As shown in FIG. 66, deformable member 702 has a free thickness FT. As shown in FIG. 62, deformable member 702 has a mounting thickness IT. In some embodiments, free thickness FT and mounted thickness IT of deformable member 702 can be substantially the same. In this case, there would be little or no preload of deformable member 702 against back surface 819 of striking face 818 . In other embodiments, mounting thickness IT can be less than free thickness FT, creating a preload load on back surface 819 of striking face 818 . This preload load can change the coefficient of restitution of the striking face 818, a value that affects the velocity at which a golf ball leaves the striking face when struck by a golf club head at a particular club head speed. In some embodiments, the rear section 812, including the adjustment driver 830, can be configured with a specific mounting IT to achieve a specific coefficient of restitution. Multiple versions of adjustment driver 830 are available to fine-tune the coefficient of restitution to the desired value. In other embodiments, multiple versions of deformable member 702 may be available with different free thicknesses FT to achieve a particular coefficient of restitution. Alternatively, the material of deformable member 702 can be changed to change its stiffness and thereby change the coefficient of restitution of the golf club head.

As shown in FIG. 63, adjustment driver 830 can also include spacer 1200 configured to change mounting thickness IT of deformable member 702 . By varying the thickness of the spacer 1200, the mounting thickness IT can be varied, thereby varying the coefficient of restitution of the golf club head.

As shown in FIG. 64, deformable member 702 can include first material 770 and second material 780 . Multi-material deformable members have been described with reference to Figures 14D, 14E, and 14Lwo. In the example shown in FIG. 64, first material 770 contacts backside 819 of striking face 818 and second material 780 contacts adjustment driver 830 . In one example, the first material can have a higher hardness than the second material. In other examples, the second material can have a higher hardness than the first material. In preferred embodiments, the first material can have a Shore A hardness value that is lower than the Shore A hardness value of the second material. In a more preferred embodiment, the first material can have a Shore A hardness value of less than 50 and the second material can have a Shore A hardness value of greater than 15. In a more preferred embodiment, the first material can have a Shore A hardness value of less than 40 and the second material can have a Shore A hardness value of greater than 25. In a more preferred embodiment, the first material can have a Shore A hardness value of less than 30 and the second material can have a Shore A hardness value of greater than 35. In a more preferred embodiment, the first material can have a Shore A hardness value of less than 20 and the second material can have a Shore A hardness value of greater than 40. In a more preferred embodiment, the first material can have a Shore A hardness value of less than 15 and the second material can have a Shore A hardness value of greater than 45. The inclusion of multiple materials not only supports the face and modifies the coefficient of restitution, but can also achieve additional benefits including reduced vibration for better feel and sound.

As shown in FIG. 65 , golf club head 800 and deformable member 702 can be configured to substantially change shape when deformable member 702 is attached to golf club head 800 . Similar to the embodiment of FIG. 64, deformable member 702 of FIG. 65 can include first material 770 and second material 770 . Deformable member 702 has a substantial difference between free thickness FT and mounted thickness IT, and deformable member 702 is preloaded against rear surface 819 of striking face 818 . In one embodiment, the free thickness FT of the deformable member is at least 5% greater than the mounting thickness IT. In another embodiment, the free thickness FT of the deformable member is at least 10% greater than the mounting thickness IT. In another embodiment, the free thickness FT of the deformable member is at least 15% greater than the mounting thickness IT. In another embodiment, the free thickness FT of the deformable member is at least 20% greater than the mounting thickness IT. In some embodiments, a portion of deformable member 702 has a diameter of front portion 703 that abuts rear surface 819 of striking face 818 when attached to golf club head 800, as shown in FIG. , the deformable member 702 can be deformed to be larger than the diameter of the adjustment receiver 890 mounted therethrough.

One method of utilizing the embodiments described herein is outlined in FIG. During construction of the golf club head 800, a target coefficient of restitution for the golf club head can be identified 1211, then a deformable member configuration that achieves the target coefficient of restitution value can be selected 1212, and the selected deformable member configuration can be implemented 1213 in the golf club head, then optionally the coefficient of restitution of the golf club head can be tested and the deformable member configuration 1214 modified 1214 if necessary, and then The previous steps can be repeated (1215) accordingly. Alternatively, instead of using the coefficient of restitution as the golf club head's measured and target values, a characteristic time can be used, which is similar to the coefficient of restitution, but easier to measure. .

Although the methods and deformable member 702 described above with reference to FIGS. 62-67 are shown and described in the context of the golf club head 800, they are applicable to the golf club head embodiments described herein. Either can be used.

As noted above, the golf club head 700 illustrated in FIGS. 26-33 includes a second damping element 702D. A second dampening element 702D may be between the back surface 719 of the striking face 718 and the support arm 762. As shown in FIG. Additionally, there may be at least one weight member 710 and a second damping element 702D between the back surface 719 of the striking face 718 and the weight member 710 or between the support arm 762 and the weight member 710. Good to be placed. Note that the second damping element 702D may be formed separately from the golf club head and subsequently attached, or may be co-molded with the golf club head to specifically match the shape of the specific club. sea bream. The co-molding process could include an infused filler material that hardens after being inserted into the golf club head. The infused filler material may employ first and second components that begin to harden when mixed and inserted into the golf club head. Further, the second damping element 702D may include a combination of both preformed members attached to the golf club head in addition to injected portions. The injected portion can help fill gaps between the preformed member and the striking face 718 , support arm 762 , weight member 710 , or rear portion 712 of golf club head 700 . The injected portion can reduce mismatch between clubs due to part and assembly tolerances and ensure flush contact with the intended surface of the golf club head. Examples of injectable filler materials that can be used in golf club heads include FlexSeal ^™ liquid rubber or DipSeal ^™ cellulose-based plastic coatings. In other embodiments, foamed materials can be used instead of injected rubber materials. The foam may be preformed, injected cast-in-place foam, or a combination of the two. Additionally, as previously discussed, injection cast-in-place foam can be used in addition to pre-formed elastomeric members. An adhesive may be used in conjunction with any of the previous embodiments and combinations to help secure the damping element in place.

68-71 illustrate additional embodiments of golf club heads 1300 with damping elements 702. FIG. FIG. 68 shows a perspective view of golf club head 1300 . FIG. 69 shows a cross-sectional view RR of golf club head 1300 of FIG. 68, where weight member 1311 is missing. FIG. 70 shows a perspective view of section RR of golf club head 1300 of FIG. FIG. 71 shows a cross-sectional view SS of golf club head 1300 of FIG. 68, where weight member 1311 and damping element 702 are missing. The golf club head 1300 of FIGS. 68-71 shares many features and qualities with the golf club head 700 shown in FIGS. 26-33 and previously described, but incorporates several unique features. .

The golf club head 1300 illustrated in FIGS. 68-71 is an iron having a cavity-back construction and includes a peripheral portion 1301 that surrounds and extends rearwardly from the striking face 1318 . Peripheral portion 1301 includes sole 1305 , toe 1306 , heel 1304 and topline 1307 . The peripheral portion 701 may include one or more weight members 1310,1311. Peripheral portion 1301 can also include a rear portion 1312 that can partially surround cavity 1320 . Peripheral portion 1301 of golf club head 1300 may include support arms 1366 . As illustrated in FIGS. 68-71, support arms 1366 can extend from sole 1305 to topline 1307 . Support arm 1366 may include first portion 1365 , cradle 1308 and second portion 1366 . A first portion 1365 extends from sole 1305 . As illustrated, first portion 1365 can be at least partially incorporated into rear portion 1312 . First portion 1365 is connected to cradle 1308 and is configured to support dampening element 702 positioned between back surface 1319 of striking face 1318 and cradle 1308 of support arm 1362 . A second portion 1366 extends between the topline 1307 and the cradle 1308 . Damping element 702 can support striking face 1318 and provide damping properties, as previously discussed. In other embodiments, the golf club head 1300 can also incorporate additional dampening elements such as the previous embodiments. In other embodiments, the rear portion can substantially surround the cavity. In other examples, additional members, such as medallions, can be attached to the rear of the golf club head. In some embodiments, the medallion can cover support arm 1362 and attenuation element 702 from view.

As illustrated, first portion 1365 is substantially thicker in the fore-aft direction than in the heel-toe direction, and second portion 1366 is substantially thicker in the heel-toe direction than in the fore-aft direction. In other embodiments, this can be reversed. In other examples, both the first portion 1365 and the second portion 1366 can be substantially thicker in the anterior-posterior direction than in the heel-toe direction. In other examples, both the first portion 1365 and the second portion 1366 can be substantially thicker in the heel-toe direction than in the front-to-back direction.

Figures 72 and 73 show an additional example of a golf club head 1400 that is an alternative construction to the golf club head 1300 shown in Figures 68-71. FIG. 72 shows a perspective view of golf club head 1400 lacking the striking face and dampening elements. FIG. 73 shows an additional perspective view of the golf club head 1400 of FIG. 72, again lacking the hitting face and damping elements. The golf club head 1400 of FIGS. 72 and 73 shares many features and qualities with the golf club head 1300 shown in FIGS. 68-71 and previously described. A major difference between the embodiments is the support arm 1462 . Golf club head 1400 includes a substantially horizontally disposed support arm 1462 as opposed to the substantially vertical support arm 1362 of golf club head 1300 . A first portion 1465 and a second portion 1466 extend from the peripheral portion 1401 and each connect to a cradle 1408 configured to support damping element 702 . First portion 1465 extends from heel side 1404 of golf club head 1400 . A heel side 1404 of the golf club head 1400 may include a weight member 1410 and a first portion 1465 may extend from the weight member 1410 to the cradle 1408 in the toe direction. A second portion 1466 extends from the toe side 1406 of the golf club head 1400 . A toe side 1406 of the golf club head 1400 may include a weight member 1411 and a second portion 1466 may extend heel-wise from the weight member 1411 to the cradle 1408 . In alternate embodiments, golf club head 1400 may not include damping elements. In such embodiments, the support arm may directly contact the back surface of the striking face. Alternatively, the support arms may be offset from the back surface of the striking face by a small distance, e.g., 0.5 mm, so that when the golf ball impacts the striking face, the striking face is deflected toward the supporting arms. As such, the support arm reduces the deflection of the striking face and supports it in the central region.

A first portion 1465 of the support arm is angled upward from the heel side 1404 toward the cradle 1408 as measured with respect to the x-axis. In some examples, the first portion 1465 can be angled upwardly by more than 5 degrees. In other examples, the first portion 1465 can be angled upwardly by more than 10 degrees. In other examples, the first portion 1465 can be angled upwardly by more than 15 degrees. In other examples, the first portion 1465 can be angled upwardly by more than 20 degrees. In other examples, the first portion 1465 can be angled upwardly by more than 25 degrees. In other examples, the first portion 1465 can be angled upwardly by more than 30 degrees. A second portion 1466 of the support arm is angled upwardly from the toe side 1406 toward the cradle 1408 as measured with respect to the x-axis. In some examples, the second portion 1466 can be angled upwardly by more than 5 degrees. In other examples, the second portion 1466 can be angled upwardly by more than 10 degrees. In other examples, the second portion 1466 can be angled upwardly by more than 15 degrees. In other examples, the second portion 1466 can be angled upwardly by more than 20 degrees. In other examples, the second portion 1466 can be angled upwardly by more than 25 degrees. In other examples, the second portion 1466 can be angled upwardly by more than 30 degrees.

Although specific embodiments and aspects have been described and specific examples provided herein, the scope of the invention is not limited to those specific embodiments and examples. Those skilled in the art will recognize other embodiments or modifications consistent with the scope and spirit of this invention. Therefore, the specific structure, acts, or media are disclosed as illustrative examples only. The scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims and any equivalents.

702 damping element 1300 golf club head 1301 peripheral portion 1304 heel 1305 sole 1306 toe 1307 topline 1308 cradle 1310, 1311 weight member 1312 rear portion 1318 striking face 1319 rear surface 1320 cavity 1362 support arm 1365 first portion 1366 second portion 1400 golf club head 1401 peripheral portion 1404 heel side 1406 toe side 1408 cradle 1410, 1411 weight member 1462 support arm 1465 first portion 1466 second portion

Claims (20)

In the golf club head,
a hitting face;
a peripheral portion surrounding the striking face and extending rearwardly from the striking face;
a coordinate system centered on the center of gravity of the golf club head, the y-axis extending perpendicular to the ground when the golf club head is at address at a given loft and lie, perpendicular to the y-axis; an x-axis parallel to the surface of the hitting face and extending to the heel of the golf club head, and a z-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extending through the hitting face at having the above coordinate system,
the striking face has a front surface configured to strike a golf ball and a back surface opposite the front surface;
a support arm spaced from the back surface of the striking face, the support arm extending from the peripheral portion, the support arm being attached to the peripheral portion at two separate locations;
a damping element positioned between the support arm and the back surface of the striking face, the damping element having a front surface in contact with the back surface of the striking face and a back surface in contact with the support arm; and the damping element,
the peripheral portion having a sole extending rearwardly from the bottom of the hitting face and a topline extending rearwardly from the top of the hitting face;
the support arm has a first portion extending from the sole toward the damping element and a second portion extending from the topline toward the damping element;
The first portion of the support arm has a first thickness along the z-axis and a first thickness along the x-axis; is greater than the first thickness along the x-axis;
The second portion of the support arm has a second thickness along the x-axis and a second thickness along the z-axis; is greater than the second thickness along the z-axis;
further comprising a medallion attached to said peripheral portion of said golf club head, said medallion defining an internal cavity, said support arm and said damping element residing within said cavity;
A golf club head, wherein the damping element comprises an elastomer. A perimeter of the front surface of the dampening element defines a support area, the support area having a geometric center, the striking face having a plurality of scorelines, the striking face extending from the y-axis and the having a heel reference plane extending parallel to the z-axis, the heel reference plane being offset from the heel-side extent of the scoreline toward the heel by 1 millimeter, the geometric center of the support area being , a support area offset length in the toe direction from the heel reference plane as measured parallel to the x-axis, the striking face being positioned from the heel reference plane to the toe of the front surface of the striking face. The golf club head has a striking face length measured parallel to the x-axis to a lateral extent, and the golf club head measures the support zone offset length divided by the striking face length multiplied by 100%. 2. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the support area offset ratio is 40% or more. 2. The golf club head of claim 1, further comprising a second damping element in contact with said striking face, said second damping element being separate and distinct from said damping element. In the golf club head,
a hitting face;
a peripheral portion surrounding the striking face and extending rearwardly from the striking face;
a coordinate system centered on the center of gravity of the golf club head, the y-axis extending perpendicular to the ground when the golf club head is at address at a given loft and lie, perpendicular to the y-axis; an x-axis parallel to the surface of the hitting face and extending to the heel of the golf club head, and a z-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extending through the hitting face at having the above coordinate system,
the striking face has a front surface configured to strike a golf ball and a back surface opposite the front surface;
a support arm spaced from the back surface of the striking face, the support arm extending from the peripheral portion, the support arm being attached to the peripheral portion at two separate locations;
a damping element positioned between the support arm and the back surface of the striking face, the damping element having a front surface in contact with the back surface of the striking face and a back surface in contact with the support arm; and the damping element,
The golf club head, wherein the support arms extend substantially parallel to the y-axis. The peripheral portion has a sole extending rearwardly from the bottom of the striking face and a top line extending rearwardly from the top of the striking face, and the support arm extends from the sole toward the damping element. and a second portion extending from said topline toward said damping element. The first portion of the support arm has a first thickness along the z-axis and a first thickness along the x-axis; is greater than the first thickness along the x-axis, and the second portion of the support arm has a thickness along the x-axis and a thickness along the z-axis of 6. The golf club head of claim 5, having a second thickness along the x-axis, wherein the second thickness along the x-axis is greater than the second thickness along the z-axis. 5. The golf club head of claim 4, further comprising a medallion attached to said peripheral portion of said golf club head, said medallion defining an internal cavity, said support arm and said damping element reside within said cavity. 5. The golf club head of claim 4, wherein said damping element comprises an elastomer. A perimeter of the front surface of the dampening element defines a support area, the support area having a geometric center, the striking face having a plurality of scorelines, the striking face extending from the y-axis and the having a heel reference plane extending parallel to the z-axis, the heel reference plane being offset from the heel-side extent of the scoreline toward the heel by 1 millimeter, the geometric center of the support area being , a support area offset length in the toe direction from the heel reference plane as measured parallel to the x-axis, the striking face being positioned from the heel reference plane to the toe of the front surface of the striking face. The golf club head has a striking face length measured parallel to the x-axis to a lateral extent, and the golf club head measures the support zone offset length divided by the striking face length multiplied by 100%. 5. The golf club head of claim 4, wherein the support area offset ratio is 40% or more. 5. The golf club head of claim 4, further comprising a second damping element in contact with said striking face, said second damping element being separate and distinct from said damping element. In the golf club head,
a hitting face;
a peripheral portion surrounding the striking face and extending rearwardly from the striking face;
a coordinate system centered on the center of gravity of the golf club head, the y-axis extending perpendicular to the ground when the golf club head is at address at a given loft and lie, perpendicular to the y-axis; an x-axis parallel to the surface of the hitting face and extending to the heel of the golf club head, and a z-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extending through the hitting face at having the above coordinate system,
the striking face has a front surface configured to strike a golf ball and a back surface opposite the front surface;
a support arm spaced from the back surface of the striking face, the support arm extending from the peripheral portion, the support arm being attached to the peripheral portion at two separate locations;
a damping element positioned between the support arm and the back surface of the striking face, the damping element having a front surface in contact with the back surface of the striking face and a back surface in contact with the support arm; and the damping element,
The support arm has a first portion extending from the heel side of the golf club head toward the damping element and a second portion extending from the toe side of the golf club head toward the damping element. A golf club head characterized by: Further comprising a heel side weight member and a toe side weight member, the first portion of the support arm extending from the heel side weight member and the second portion of the support arm extending from the toe side weight. 12. The golf club head of claim 11, extending from the member. The first portion of the support arm has a first thickness along the x-axis and a first thickness along the z-axis; is greater than the first thickness along the z-axis, and the second portion of the support arm has a thickness along the x-axis and a thickness along the z-axis of 12. The golf club head of claim 11, having a second thickness along the x-axis, wherein the second thickness along the x-axis is greater than the second thickness along the z-axis. 12. The golf club head of claim 11, further comprising a medallion attached to said peripheral portion of said golf club head, said medallion defining an internal cavity, said support arm and said damping element reside within said cavity. 12. The golf club head of claim 11, wherein said damping element comprises an elastomer. 12. The first portion of the support arm is angled upwardly from the heel side of the golf club head toward the damping element at an angle greater than 5 degrees with respect to the x-axis. golf club head. 12. The second portion of the support arm is angled upwardly from the toe side of the golf club head toward the damping element at an angle greater than 5 degrees with respect to the x-axis. golf club head. the first portion of the support arm angled upwardly from the heel side of the golf club head toward the damping element at an angle greater than 5 degrees with respect to the x-axis; 12. The golf club head of claim 11, wherein a second portion is angled upwardly from the toe side of the golf club head toward the damping element at an angle greater than 5 degrees with respect to the x-axis. . A perimeter of the front surface of the dampening element defines a support area, the support area having a geometric center, the striking face having a plurality of scorelines, the striking face extending from the y-axis and the having a heel reference plane extending parallel to the z-axis, the heel reference plane being offset from the heel-side extent of the scoreline toward the heel by 1 millimeter, the geometric center of the support area being , a support area offset length in the toe direction from the heel reference plane as measured parallel to the x-axis, the striking face being positioned from the heel reference plane to the toe of the front surface of the striking face. The golf club head has a striking face length measured parallel to the x-axis to a lateral extent, and the golf club head measures the support zone offset length divided by the striking face length multiplied by 100%. 12. The golf club head of claim 11, wherein the support area offset ratio is greater than or equal to 40%. 12. The golf club head of claim 11, further comprising a second damping element in contact with said striking face, said second damping element being separate and distinct from said damping element.

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