JP2022534785A - multiple material iron golf club head - Google Patents

Abstract

A tour iron is described herein that includes a golf club head having a faceplate, body, and insert. The sole, top rail, rear, and faceplate surround the body cavity. The cavity can accommodate an insert. The insert can include a low density material and can concentrate the weight at the periphery of the golf club head. The rear of the golf club head has a flexion seam that extends from heel to toe. The golf club head has an upper portion above the flex seam and a lower portion below the flex seam. The lower portion can have a greater depth than the upper portion depth. The striking face can be formed by a low density insert. A golf club head has a relatively high moment of inertia and a low center of gravity. Other embodiments and methods are described herein. [Selection drawing] Fig. 37

Description

(Related application)
This application is made in accordance with U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/857,741 filed June 5, 2019, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/865,831 filed June 24, 2019 and No. 62/925,912, filed Oct. 25, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to golf equipment and, more particularly, to multi-material iron golf club heads and methods of making said golf club heads.

Typically, iron-type golf club heads include various styles such as muscle back, cavity back, or tour irons. Golfers with lower handicaps and higher skill levels prefer compact, aesthetically smooth tour irons. Tour irons have high lofts, low centers of gravity (hereinafter "CG"), short shaft lengths, low profiles, and thin toplines. Tour irons are generally smooth, have a classic look, and have a desirable sound. Forged tour irons, in particular, are believed to provide an improved "feel" and provide an aesthetic perspective over other types of irons, such as cast irons. In general, low handicap golfers, such as tour players, desire iron-type club heads that have a CG that is low and close to the face of the club. Tour irons have a smaller sweet spot for straight flight, allowing these golfers to further shape their shots by manipulating the portion of the club face that impacts the golf ball. Although difficult to use effectively by high-handicap golfers, tour irons fill a niche demand for highly skilled, often low-handicap golfers.

Game improving irons, on the other hand, are typically designed to accommodate high handicap golfers who desire increased forgiveness and loft in their irons. High handicap golfers tend to play with iron-type club heads that have a higher moment of inertia (MOI), which gives the club head more forgiveness. Game-improving irons, such as deep-cavity backs, muscle backs, or hollow-body irons, allow for perimeter weighting, which increases the forgiveness of the clubhead and provides more distance because the face has more room to flex. However, the game-improving irons, by definition, do not feel like solid tour irons and are not pure to golfers accustomed to traditional solid irons. Game improving irons have a large profile and provide a bulky feel. Such game-improving irons can also have thick toplines and other shaping features that many golfers consider less aesthetic. The golf club heads described herein meet the needs of golfers who want a club that shares the benefits of both game improvement and tour irons.

The art has found the compact size and solid feel of traditional tour irons without sacrificing the high moment of inertia and perimeter weighting of traditional game-enhancing irons that can be used by mid-to-low handicap players. What is needed is a club head that has sound and

FIG. 1 shows an exploded perspective view of a golf club head according to one embodiment.

2 shows a front view of the golf club head of FIG. 1; FIG.

3 shows a rear view of the golf club head of FIG. 1; FIG.

4 shows a toe side view of the golf club head of FIG. 1. FIG.

5 shows a cross-sectional toe side view of the golf club head of FIG. 1 along line VV of FIG. 3. FIG.

6 shows a cross-sectional toe side view of the golf club head of FIG. 1 along line VV of FIG. 3 according to a first embodiment with a multi-material insert.

7 shows a cross-sectional toe side view of the golf club head of FIG. 1 along line VV of FIG. 3 according to a second embodiment with a multi-material insert.

8 shows a cross-sectional toe side view of the golf club head of FIG. 1 along line VV of FIG. 3 according to a third embodiment with a multi-material insert.

9 shows a cross-sectional toe side view of the golf club head of FIG. 1 along line VV of FIG. 3, according to a fourth embodiment with a multi-material insert.

FIG. 10 shows a front perspective view of a lightening insert, according to one embodiment.

11 shows a front view of the lightening insert of FIG. 10. FIG.

12 shows a rear view of the lightening insert of FIG. 10. FIG.

FIG. 13 shows a cross-sectional view of the lightening insert of FIG. 10 along line XII-XII with respect to a golf club head.

FIG. 14 shows a front perspective view of a second lightening insert, according to one embodiment.

15 shows a front view of the lightening insert of FIG. 14; FIG.

16 shows a front perspective view of a variation of the lightening insert of FIG. 14; FIG.

FIG. 17 shows a cross-sectional toe side view of a golf club head according to an embodiment having a rear shelf.

FIG. 18 shows a cross-sectional toe side view of a golf club head according to an embodiment having a rear shelf angled 90 degrees from the loft plane.

19 shows a cross-sectional toe side view of the golf club head of FIG. 1 along line VV of FIG. 3, including tape layers.

20 shows a rear perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 1, including an exploded view of the toe cavity and toe weight; FIG.

FIG. 21 shows an exploded view of a golf club head according to a second embodiment.

22 shows a rear view of the golf club head of FIG. 21. FIG.

23 shows a heel side view of the golf club head of FIG. 21 in cross section along line XVI-XVI of FIG. 22. FIG.

24 shows a front perspective view of the body of the golf club head of FIG. 21; FIG.

25 shows a rear perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 21. FIG.

26 shows a heel side view of the golf club head of FIG. 21 in cross section along line XVI-XVI of FIG. 22. FIG.

27 shows a cross-sectional heel side view along line XVI-XVI of FIG. 22 of the golf club head of FIG. 21 according to a first embodiment having a partially filled insert.

28 shows a cross-sectional heel side view along line XVI-XVI of FIG. 22 of the golf club head of FIG. 21 according to a second embodiment having a partially filled insert.

29 shows a heel side view in cross section along line XVI-XVI of FIG. 22 of the golf club head of FIG. 21 according to a third embodiment having a partially filled insert.

30 shows a cross-sectional heel side view of the golf club head of FIG. 21 along line XVI-XVI of FIG. 22 according to a fourth embodiment having a partially filled insert.

FIG. 31 shows a variation of the golf club head of FIG. 22 having an enclosed rear portion.

FIG. 32 shows a variation of the golf club head of FIG. 22 with an enclosed rear portion and locking features.

FIG. 33 shows a side view of a toe screw weight according to one embodiment.

34 shows a perspective view of the toe screw weight of FIG. 33. FIG.

FIG. 35 shows a front view of a golf club head according to one embodiment.

FIG. 36 shows a front view of the body of the golf club head of FIG. 35 without the insert.

37 shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 35. FIG.

Figure 38 shows an enlarged view of the top rail shown in Figure 37;

39 shows a front view of the body of a golf club head according to an embodiment similar to the golf club head of FIG. 35. FIG.

40 shows a perspective view of the body of the golf club head of FIG. 39. FIG.

41 shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 39. FIG.

42 shows a front view of the body of a golf club head according to an embodiment similar to the golf club head of FIG. 35. FIG.

43 shows a perspective view of the body of the golf club head of FIG. 42. FIG.

44 shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 42. FIG.

45 shows a front view of the body of a golf club head according to an embodiment similar to the golf club head of FIG. 35. FIG.

FIG. 46 shows a front view of the body of a golf club head according to an embodiment similar to the golf club head of FIG.

47 shows a perspective view of the body of the golf club head of FIG. 46. FIG.

FIG. 48 shows a rear view of a golf club head having at least toe and heel weights, according to an embodiment similar to the golf club head of FIG.

49 shows a rear view of a golf club head having multiple weights according to an embodiment similar to the golf club head of FIG. 35. FIG.

FIG. 50 shows a rear view of a golf club head having multiple weights according to an embodiment similar to the golf club head of FIG.

FIG. 51 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head according to one embodiment.

FIG. 52 shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 51 including locking features.

FIG. 53 shows a statistical plot area chart of the golf club comparison test.

FIG. 54 illustrates a method of manufacturing a golf club head according to one embodiment.

FIG. 55 shows a method of manufacturing a golf club head according to the second embodiment.

It is well understood by those familiar with golf that tour irons are visually distinguished from game improvement irons by both their size and appearance. Tour irons therefore include different design requirements than game improvement irons. The golf clubs described herein meet the market demand for tour style irons while retaining the functional benefits of game improving irons.

Specifically, the golf club heads described herein combine the aesthetically appealing features of tour irons (e.g., compact size, forging, mid-feel) with the performance benefits of game-improving irons (e.g., perimeter weighting). and high tolerance). A golf club head is described herein having a body forming a cavity, an insert may fit within the cavity, and the cavity may be surrounded by a cap at the rear of the body or by a faceplate of the body. can. The insert may alternately be exposed to the exterior of the club head through one or more openings to maximize the mass of the insert and benefit weight distribution within the club head. Thus, the golf club head provides the intermediate or beginner golfer with a tour-style iron club while maintaining the level of forgiveness necessary to make the most accurate shot possible for their skill level. . In general, tour irons are designed for highly skilled golfers or low to moderate handicap players, while game improvement irons are designed for beginner to intermediate golfers with large handicaps (greater than 10). Designed for golfers. The golf club head of the present description provides an option for golfers who want to play with a set of tour irons but lack the skill to use traditional tour irons.

Additionally, the golf club head offers the highly skilled golfer the option to enhance shot accuracy through a high MOI design. Although the golf club heads described herein may include a lower MOI than certain game improvement irons or standard irons, the club heads nevertheless may be used as other golf club heads within the same category, i.e. Contains a higher MOI than tour irons or small irons. Additionally, the disclosed golf club head provides a low CG that is desirable for advanced golfers. The golf club heads described herein may be exemplified by, but not limited to, these embodiments.

A golf club head may be manufactured by a method that includes swaging a faceplate onto the body of the golf club head. The interface between the faceplate and body after swaging can be laser welded in a surface melting process. The insert is not damaged by swaging or laser welding.

For simplicity and clarity of description, the drawings show general methods of construction, and descriptions and details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure. Additionally, elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. The same reference numbers in different drawings identify the same elements.

Described herein are golf clubs having hollow golf club heads or partially/substantially hollow golf club heads, each of which includes a low density insert (hollow golf club head or partially/substantially hollow golf club head). is hereinafter referred to as the "golf club head"). A golf club has a golf club head, a shaft, and a grip. A golf club head includes a body having a hosel, a front, a rear, a top rail, and a sole. The body can include a cavity. A faceplate, sole, rear, and top rail surround the cavity. In some embodiments, the golf club head cavity may be sealed from the front by the faceplate. In some embodiments, the cavity can open at the rear of the club, partially exposing the cavity. The insert can fit within the cavity. The front of the golf club head can further include a faceplate that seals the cavity from the front.

One embodiment of the golf club head described herein includes a body forming a cavity and a low density insert, the cavity opening toward the front of the golf club head. The body has an internal cavity formed in the center of the club head. The body can be cast or forged. The cavity can receive and house a low density insert.

The golf club head has a low density center portion, a high density perimeter portion, and, as previously mentioned, a low density insert for moving the weight around, thereby improving overall forgiveness. The insert comprises a low density material such as aluminum, titanium, or composites. Filling the cavity with a solid insert improves the sound and feel of the golf club head over other similar hollow body irons. In some embodiments, adhesive and/or tape is used to further secure the insert within the cavity and prevent rattling.

The faceplate seals the front opening of the golf club head and forms a cavity. Swaging, press fitting, or other cryogenic methods are used to secure the faceplate. Do not use TIG welding. In some embodiments, the faceplate is: It can be further fixed to the body by laser welding. When the faceplate is TIG welded to the front of the golf club head body, the insert, tape, and/or adhesive are exposed to high temperatures and become damaged, thereby compromising the weight distribution of the insert and causing tape and/or adhesion. impairs the material properties of the agent.

A dense perimeter of the golf club head can also be achieved with toe weights and/or tip weights in the hosel. In some embodiments, the body can further include a toe cavity. A tow weight may be mounted within the toe cavity. Tow weights include high density materials such as tungsten. Additionally, in some embodiments, the golf club head may include a toe screw weight for swing weight.

In a second embodiment of the golf club head, the body cavity is exposed through an opening in the rear upper portion. Similar to the first embodiment, the golf club head of the second embodiment comprises a body and a low density insert. The body can be cast or forged. The body has a rear opening in the upper portion of the body. A low density insert is housed within the cavity of the body. In this embodiment, the insert comprises a material that can be injected into the cavity, such as a thermoplastic composite, foam, or other filler dampening material.

The golf club head further includes a faceplate that forms a front boundary of the cavity. The injection molding process can form a low density insert within the cavity of the body. The golf club head may further include a toe weight within the toe cavity of the body and/or a tip weight within the hosel for perimeter weighting. Additionally, the golf club head may include a toe screw weight for swing weight.

In the description and claims, the terms "first", "second", "third", "fourth", etc. are used to distinguish between similar elements, if any; They are not necessarily used to describe a particular order or chronological order, and the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, e.g. can operate in sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Further, the terms "comprising," "comprising," and "having," and variations thereof, are intended to include non-exclusive inclusion, and processes, methods, articles or apparatus, including lists of elements, do not necessarily include these and may include other elements not expressly indicated or inherent in such processes, methods, articles or apparatus.

The terms "forward", "back", "rear", "top", "bottom", etc., if any, in the specification and claims are used for descriptive purposes and do not necessarily describe permanent relative positions. It is not used to The terms so used are intended to indicate that embodiments of the apparatus, methods, and/or articles of manufacture described herein, for example, are illustrated or otherwise described herein. It should be understood that it is interchangeable under appropriate circumstances so that it can operate in other orientations.

The term "couple" and like terms should be understood broadly and refer to connecting, mechanically and/or otherwise, two or more elements. For example, two or more mechanical elements may be mechanically coupled, but may not be electrically coupled or otherwise uncoupled. Coupling may be for any length of time, eg, permanent or semi-permanent, or may be momentary.

The term MOI as used herein can be a quantity that describes the body's tendency to resist angular acceleration. MOI is also known as angular mass or rotational inertia. MOI determines the torque required to achieve the desired angular acceleration about the axis of rotation. A higher MOI makes the club head more forgiving. That is, golfers will perceive a more consistent shot even if the golf ball is hit with a portion of the striking surface that is off-center. MOI is increased by moving weights away from the center of the golf club head and toward the perimeter of the golf club head. To maintain the desired overall golf club head weight, the center of the golf club head must contain either the cavity or a lighter material than the main golf club head in order to increase the MOI.

Golf club aspects described herein may be applied to one or more golf clubs in a set of irons. In some embodiments, the set of irons includes irons having varying club head sizes, shaft lengths, lie angles, loft angles, head weights, and/or other parameters. Each club head in a set of irons may be conventionally numbered with numbers ranging from one to ten. Most commonly, the sets are numbered 3-9. Additionally, a set of irons may include one or more wedges with higher loft angles than the numbered irons.

In some embodiments, the golf club head can be a wedge. In many embodiments, the loft angle of the golf club head is less than about 50 degrees, less than about 49 degrees, less than about 48 degrees, less than about 47 degrees, less than about 46 degrees, less than about 45 degrees, less than about 44 degrees, about Less than 43 degrees, less than about 42 degrees, less than about 41 degrees, or less than about 40 degrees. Further, in many embodiments, the loft angle of the golf club head is greater than about 16 degrees, greater than about 17 degrees, greater than about 18 degrees, greater than about 19 degrees, greater than about 20 degrees. , greater than about 21 degrees, greater than about 22 degrees, greater than about 23 degrees, greater than about 24 degrees, or greater than about 25 degrees.

In many embodiments, the loft angle of the golf club head is less than about 64 degrees, less than about 63 degrees, less than about 62 degrees, less than about 61 degrees, less than about 60 degrees, less than about 59 degrees, less than about 58 degrees, about Less than 57 degrees, less than about 56 degrees, less than about 55 degrees, or less than about 54 degrees. Further, in many embodiments, the loft angle of the golf club head is greater than about 46 degrees, greater than about 47 degrees, greater than about 48 degrees, greater than about 49 degrees, greater than about 50 degrees. , greater than about 51 degrees, or greater than about 52 degrees.

In many embodiments, the golf club head can include a total volume between 1.9 cubic inches and 2.7 cubic inches. In some embodiments, the golf club head has a total volume of 1.9 cubic inches to 2.4 cubic inches, 2.0 cubic inches to 2.5 cubic inches, 2.1 cubic inches to 2.6 cubic inches. , 2.2 cubic inches to 2.7 cubic inches, 2.3 cubic inches to 2.7 cubic inches, or 2.4 cubic inches to 2.7 cubic inches. In other embodiments, the total volume of the golf club head 100 is 1.9 cubic inches, 2.0 cubic inches, 2.1 cubic inches, 2.2 cubic inches, 2.3 cubic inches, 2.4 cubic inches. , 2.5 cubic inches, 2.6 cubic inches, or 2.7 cubic inches.

In some embodiments, the golf club head is 200-210 grams, 210-220 grams, 220-230 grams, 230-240 grams, 240-250 grams, 250-260 grams, 255 grams. A total mass of -260 grams, 260 grams to 270 grams, 265 grams to 275 grams, 270 grams to 280 grams, 275 grams to 280 grams, or 250 grams to 270 grams, 270 grams and 270 grams. In other embodiments, the total mass is 200 grams, 205 grams, 210 grams, 220 grams, 225 grams, 230 grams, 235 grams, 240 grams, 245 grams, 250 grams, 255 grams, 260 grams, 265 grams, 270 grams. grams, 275 grams, 280 grams, 285 grams, 290 grams, 295 grams or 300 grams.

The golf club heads described herein can be viewed from various perspectives while at address, including front view, rear view, toe side view, heel side view, top view, and bottom view. , and various perspective views. For example, a front view of the golf club head 100 looks at the club head from a direction forward of the loft surface 20 and parallel to the ground plane 10 . A rear view of the golf club head 100 looks at the club head from a direction behind the back surface 103 and parallel to the ground plane 10 . A toe side view of the golf club head 100 looks at the club head from a toe-heel direction parallel to the ground plane 10 . A heel side view of the golf club head 100 looks at the club head from a heel-toe direction parallel to the ground plane 10 . A bottom view of the golf club head 100 looks at the club head from a bottom-to-top direction perpendicular to the ground plane 10 . A top view of the golf club head 100 looks at the club head from a top-to-bottom direction perpendicular to the ground plane 10 .

I. Golf club head with insert and sealing faceplate

Here, the golf club head 100 will be described. Golf club head 100 may be a forgiving, tour-style golf club head, as described above. Golf club head 100 may include a body having a cavity that houses an insert. A golf club head includes a faceplate, a body, and an insert. The body has an upper portion, a lower portion, a sole, a rear and a top rail. The rear can further comprise a flexion seam. A flex seam is the boundary between the upper and lower portions of the golf club head. The faceplate and a portion of the body define the strikeface of the golf club head. A faceplate, sole, rear, and top rail surround the cavity.

The body cavity opens toward the front of the golf club head and is sealed by the faceplate. The faceplate can be swaged and laser welded to the body. The club head is a tour iron club head and has a volume of 1.8 cubic inches to 2.7 cubic inches (30 cubic centimeters (cc) to 45 cc). The body of the golf club head can be cast or forged from metallic materials.

The insert includes a low density material and fills the cavity formed by the body of the golf club head. Reducing the mass in the center of the golf club head concentrates excess mass around it, allowing the golf club head to increase its moment of inertia value. As mentioned above, the golf club head has a lower portion and an upper portion. The lower portion includes a greater depth than the upper portion. This causes the lower portion to have more mass concentrated around the heel end, toe end and sole. Lower body mass lowers CG, increases launch angle, and reduces spin. As introduced above, there is a need in the art for connecting tour irons that have a relatively high moment of inertia from perimeter weighting and low CG from low mass positioning. In some embodiments, tip weights located within the hosel and/or toe weights located within the toe cavity of the body provide additional perimeter weighting.

A. part of a golf club head

Referring to FIGS. 1-13, golf club head 100 includes faceplate 155, body 110, and insert 140, as described above. Body 110 may further comprise upper portion 108 , lower portion 109 , sole 107 , rear 103 , toe side 101 , heel side 102 and top rail 106 . Faceplate 155 and a portion of the body may define strikeface 111 . Faceplate 155 , sole 107 , rear 103 , and top rail 106 surround cavity 120 . Upper portion 108 is bounded by top rail 106 . Lower portion 109 is bounded by sole 107 . Rear 103 may include a flex seam 130 . A flex seam 130 can extend from the toe side 101 to the heel side 102 of the golf club head. A flex seam 130 bounds the upper portion 108 to the top rail 106 . Flexion seam 130 bounds lower portion 109 to sole 107 . Flex seam 130 exhibits the end of uniform upper portion depth 116, as will be described below. As shown in FIGS. 4-12, the flexion seam 130 is depicted as an inflection point in the toe side view of any cross-section cut from the top rail toward the sole.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the ground plane 10 serves as a reference for the ground when the golf club is at address. As shown in FIG. 4 , the face surface 20 is parallel to the strike face 111 . As shown in FIG. 2 , center plane 45 is perpendicular to ground plane 10 , perpendicular to loft plane 20 , and coincides with center point 80 of strike plane 111 . As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, golf club head 100 may have a coordinate system centered on CG 60 of golf club head 100 . The golf club head 600 described below may have similar coordinate axes. The x-axis 30 reference axis extends through the CG 60 in the toe-heel direction. The x-axis 30 is parallel to the strike face. A y-axis 40 reference axis extends through CG 60 in the top rail-to-sole direction. A y-axis 40 is orthogonal to the ground plane 10 when the golf club head 100 is at the address position. The z-axis 50 reference axis extends through the CG 60 in the front-to-rear direction. The z-axis 50 is parallel to the ground plane 10 and perpendicular to the x-axis 30 and y-axis 40 . Additionally, the reference axis of hosel axis 70 extends through the concentric center of hosel 105 . Lead edge axis 35 is parallel to ground plane 10 , extends in the heel-toe direction, and coincides with the lowest point on substantially planar strike face 111 along the center of strike face 111 . The lead edge plane is coincident with the lead edge axis 35 and parallel to the ground plane 10 .

1) Upper and lower portions of the golf club head

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, golf club head 100 includes upper portion 108 and lower portion 109 . As mentioned above, the upper portion 108 can be separated from the lower portion 109 by the flexion seam 130 . An upper portion 108 of the rear 103 of the body may include a uniform depth 116 measured perpendicular to the loft plane 20 from the strike face 111 to the rear 103 . Rear 103 includes a top wall 131 and a bottom wall 132 . By remaining substantially parallel to the loft surface 20 , the top wall of the rear 103 allows for a constant depth 116 in the upper portion 108 of the golf club head 100 . At flex seam 130 , the rear profile transitions between upper portion 108 and lower portion 109 of golf club head 100 , shifting the depth of golf club head 100 . This depth change leads to lower portion 109 having a greater depth 118 than upper portion 108, as will be described below. A greater depth of the lower portion 109 is beneficial in lowering the CG of the golf club head 100 and improving launch characteristics.

This profile of the rear 103 of the golf club head 100 allows mass to be placed lower in the golf club head 100 than golf club heads having flat rear designs. Lowering the mass in the club head lowers the CG. This allows for improved ball launch and spin characteristics of the golf ball upon impact with the golf club head 100 . The full advantage of the CG location is best understood by comparison with a golf club head having a flat rear, as provided in Example 3 below. In some embodiments, the golf club head 100 can include a CG that is 0.030 inches to 0.050 inches lower than the CG of the flatback comparison golf club head. In some embodiments, CG is 0.030 inch to 0.032 inch, 0.032 inch to 0.034 inch, 0.034 inch to 0.036 inch, 0.036 inch to 0.038 inch, 0.038"-0.040", 0.040"-0.042", 0.042"-0.044", 0.044"-0.046", 0.046"-0.048", Or lowered by 0.048 inch to 0.050 inch.

The rear profile can vary between embodiments to allow upper portion 108 and lower portion 109 to have different depths, volumes, or masses. As shown in the cross-sectional views of FIGS. 17 and 18, in some embodiments the lower wall 132 of the rear 103 can include a ledge 139 immediately below the flex seam 130. As shown in FIG. A shelf 139 may be between the top wall 131 and the remainder of the bottom wall 132 . In these embodiments, ledge 139 extends rearwardly and/or downwardly from flexion seam 130 . In embodiments such as that shown in FIG. 18, shelf 139 is substantially perpendicular to loft surface 20 . By changing the rear profile, the depth, volume, or mass of the upper and lower portions 108, 109 can be changed, which affects the CG position and MOI value.

2) the height of the upper and lower parts;

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , golf club head 100 includes upper portion 108 and lower portion 109 separated by flexion seam 130 . Upper portion 108 has a height 188 measured along center plane 45 from top rail 106 to flex seam 130 in a direction parallel to loft plane 20 . Upper portion height 188 can be between 0.60 inches and 0.90 inches. In some embodiments, the top height 188 is 0.60 inch to 0.65 inch, 0.65 inch to 0.70 inch, 0.70 inch to 0.75 inch, 0.75 inch to 0.75 inch. 80", 0.80" - 0.85", 0.085" - 0.90", 0.60" - 0.70", 0.70" and 0.80", or 0.80" - 0 can be between .90 inches.

Lower portion 109 includes a height 189 measured along center plane 45 from top rail 106 to flex seam 130 in a direction parallel to loft plane 20 . Lower portion height 189 can be between 0.80 inches and 1.10 inches. In some embodiments, the lower height 189 is 0.80 inch to 0.85 inch, 0.85 inch to 0.90 inch, 0.90 inch to 0.95 inch, 0.95 inch to 1.0 inch. It can be between 0 inches, 1.0 inches to 1.05 inches, 1.05 inches to 1.10 inches, 0.9 inches to 1.0 inches, or 1.0 inches to 1.1 inches.

The ratio of upper portion height 188 to lower portion height 189 can be between 9:8 (54:48) and 6:11 (54:99). In some embodiments, the ratio of upper portion height 188 to lower portion height 189 is between 9:8 (54:48) and 6:8 (54:72), 6:8 (54:72). :72) to 9:11 (54:66) or between 9:11 (54:66) to 6:11 (54:99). The higher the ratio of the upper portion height 188 to the lower portion height 189, the lower the CG because the lower portion 109 has greater depth and mass, as explained below. A low CG improves launch and spin characteristics by reducing the torque imparted to the golf club head 100 upon impact with a golf ball. A low CG can also increase ball speed and improve the feel of the golf club head 100 .

3) the depth of the upper and lower portions of the golf club head;

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the upper portion 108 of the golf club head 100 can have a uniform depth. Upper portion depth 116 of club head 100 may be between 0.200 inches and 0.250 inches. In some embodiments, the upper portion depth 116 is 0.200 inches to 0.210 inches, 0.205 inches to 0.215 inches, 0.210 inches to 0.220 inches, 0.215 inches to 0.215 inches. .225", 0.220" - 0.230", 0.225" - 0.235", 0.230" - 0.240", 0.235" - 0.245", 0.240" - 0 .250 inches, or 0.245 inches to 0.250 inches.

Lower portion 109 includes a depth 118 measured along center plane 45 and perpendicular to loft plane 20 from strike face 111 to the outer surface of rear 103 . Lower portion depth 118 can vary in the top rail-to-sole direction and/or heel-to-toe direction. Lower portion depth 118 is equal to or greater than the depth of upper portion 116 of golf club head 100 . Lower portion depth 118 may be between 0.270 inches and 0.780 inches. In other embodiments, the lower portion depth 118 is 0.270 inches to 0.320 inches, 0.320 inches to 0.380 inches, 0.380 inches to 0.430 inches, 0.430 inches to 0.430 inches. .480", 0.480" - 0.530", 0.530" - 0.580", 0.580" - 0.630", 0.630" - 0.680", 0.680" - 0 .730", 0.730" - 0.780", 0.270" - 0.470", 0.320" - 0.520", 0.370" - 0.570", 0.420" - 0 .620", 0.470" to 0.670", 0.420" to 0.620", 0.470" to 0.670", 0.520" to 0.720", or 0.570" to can be between 0.770 inches

At the toe 101 and heel 102 of club head 100 , lower portion depth 118 can be different than lower portion depth 118 at centerplane 45 . Minimum lower portion depth 118 within toe 101 may be between 0.300 inches and 0.460 inches. In other embodiments, the lower portion depth 118 of the toe region 101 is 0.300 inch to 0.320 inch, 0.320 inch to 0.330 inch, 0.330 inch to 0.340 inch, 0.330 inch to 0.340 inch. 340" to 0.360", 0.360" to 0.380", 0.380" to 0.400", 0.400" to 0.420", 0.420" to 0.440", or 0 It can be between 0.440 inch and 0.460 inch.

Lower portion depth 118 at heel 102 can likewise be different than lower portion depth at centerplane 45 . Minimum lower portion depth 118 within heel region 102 may be between 0.270 inches and 0.315 inches. In other embodiments, the lower portion depth 118 of the heel region 102 ranges from 0.270 inch to 0.280 inch, 0.280 inch to 0.290 inch, 0.290 inch to 0.300 inch, 0.290 inch to 0.300 inch, 300"-0.310", 0.310"-0.320", 0.320"-0.340", 0.340"-0.360", 0.360"-0.380", 0.360"-0.380" It can be between 380 inches to 0.400 inches, 0.400 inches to 0.420 inches, 0.420 inches to 0.440 inches, 0.440 inches to 0.460 inches.

The maximum depth of club head 100 is located within lower portion 109 of body 110 . The maximum depth of club head 100 is measured perpendicular to loft plane 20 from strike face 111 to the outer surface of rear 103 . The maximum depth can be between 0.670 inches and 0.770 inches. In other embodiments, the maximum depth is 0.670 inches to 0.690 inches, 0.690 inches to 0.710 inches, 0.710 inches to 0.730 inches, 0.730 inches to 0.750 inches. , or between 0.750 inches and 0.770 inches.

In some embodiments, the ratio between upper portion depth 116 and lower portion depth 118 can be between 1:3 and 4:5. In some embodiments, the ratio between upper portion depth 116 and lower portion depth 118 is 1:3 to 1:2, 1:2 to 2:3, or 2:3 to 4:5. can be between In club heads with a greater ratio of upper portion depth 116 to lower portion depth 118, the lower portion extends further rearward. Conversely, in a club head with a smaller ratio of upper portion depth 116 to lower portion depth 118, the lower portion does not project rearwardly. These embodiments may appear smoother and resemble a thin profile tour iron.

4) the volume of the upper and lower portions of the golf club head and cavity;

4 and 5, upper portion 108 and lower portion 109 of golf club head 100 may include a volume. Volume is measured from a plane adjacent heel 102 and coinciding with the edge/perimeter of faceplate 155 to toe 101 . The volume of upper portion 108 can be between 0.20 cubic inches and 0.60 cubic inches. In some embodiments, the volume of upper portion 108 is 0.20 cubic inches to 0.30 cubic inches, 0.25 cubic inches to 0.35 cubic inches, 0.30 cubic inches to 0.40 cubic inches, Between 0.35 cubic inches and 0.45 cubic inches, 0.40 cubic inches and 0.50 cubic inches, 0.45 cubic inches and 0.55 cubic inches, or 0.50 cubic inches and 0.60 cubic inches can be In some implementations, the volume of upper portion 108 is 0.48 cubic inches.

As shown in FIG. 5, upper portion 108 and lower portion 109 together form body 110 which defines cavity 120 . A portion of cavity 120 within upper portion 108 of body 110 may have a volume of 0.05 to 0.40 cubic inches (0.82 cc to 6.55 cc). In some embodiments, the cavity volume in upper portion 108 is 0.05 cubic inches to 0.15 cubic inches, 0.10 cubic inches to 0.20 cubic inches, 0.15 cubic inches to 0.25 cubic inches. inches, 0.20 cubic inches to 0.30 cubic inches, 0.25 cubic inches to 0.35 cubic inches, 0.30 cubic inches to 0.40 cubic inches, or 0.35 cubic inches to 0.45 cubic inches can be between In some embodiments, the cavity volume within upper portion 108 is 0.17 cubic inches. In some embodiments, the ratio of club head upper portion volume to cavity volume in the upper portion may range from 11:10 to 12:1.

In order to place the CG appropriately low in the golf club head 100, the golf club head 100 below the flex seam 130 (i.e., the lower portion 109) is aligned with the golf club head 100 above the flex seam 130 (i.e., the upper portion). It is larger in volume than the portion 108). The volume of the lower portion 109 of the club head 100 is measured the same as the upper portion 108 (ie, measured from a plane adjacent to the heel 102 and coinciding with the edge/perimeter of the faceplate 155 to the toe). The volume of lower portion 109 can be between 1.15 cubic inches and 1.55 cubic inches. In some embodiments, the volume of lower portion 109 is 1.15 cubic inches to 1.35 cubic inches, 1.25 cubic inches to 1.45 cubic inches, 1.35 cubic inches to 1.55 cubic inches. , 1.20 to 1.30 cubic inches, 1.30 to 1.40 cubic inches, or 1.40 to 1.50 cubic inches. In some embodiments, the volume of the upper portion is 1.36 cubic inches.

A portion of cavity 120 within lower portion 109 may have a volume of 0.15 cubic inches to 0.60 cubic inches (2.46 cc to 9.83 cc). In some embodiments, the cavity volume in lower portion 109 is 0.15 cubic inches to 0.25 cubic inches, 0.20 cubic inches to 0.30 cubic inches, 0.25 cubic inches to 0.35 Cubic Inch, 0.30 Cubic Inch to 0.40 Cubic Inch, 0.35 Cubic Inch to 0.45 Cubic Inch, 0.40 Cubic Inch to 0.50 Cubic Inch, 0.45 Cubic Inch to 0.55 Cubic Inch , or between 0.50 cubic inches and 0.60 cubic inches. In some embodiments, the cavity volume within lower portion 109 is 0.37 cubic inches. In some embodiments, the ratio of the club head lower portion volume to the cavity volume within the lower portion may range from 1.1:1 to 10:1.

5) Total cavity volume

Referring again to FIG. 1, golf club head 100 may include body 110 including cavity 120 in a central portion of golf club head 100 . Cavity 120 is filled with a low density insert 140, which increases the forgiveness of golf club head 100 without sacrificing the solid feel and appearance of the tour iron. The forgiveness of golf club head 100 corresponds to the amount of perimeter weighting affected by the volume of cavity 120 . Larger cavities eliminate more mass from the central region of golf club head 100 than smaller cavities. As a result, the larger cavity allows more weight to be placed around the golf club head 100 .

Cavity 120 can have a volume of 0.2 cubic inches to 0.8 cubic inches (3.28 cc to 13.11 cc). In some embodiments, the volume of cavity 120 is 0.2 cubic inches to 0.3 cubic inches, 0.2 cubic inches to 0.25 cubic inches, 0.25 cubic inches to 0.30 cubic inches, 0.30 cubic inch to 0.35 cubic inch, 0.35 cubic inch to 0.40 cubic inch, 0.40 cubic inch to 0.50 cubic inch, 0.40 cubic inch to 0.45 cubic inch, 0.35 cubic inch to 0.40 cubic inch 45 cubic inches to 0.50 cubic inches, 0.50 cubic inches to 0.60 cubic inches, 0.50 cubic inches to 0.65 cubic inches, 0.55 cubic inches to 0.60 cubic inches, 0.60 cubic inches Inch to 0.65 Cubic Inch, 0.65 Cubic Inch to 0.70 Cubic Inch, 0.70 Cubic Inch to 0.80 Cubic Inch, 0.70 Cubic Inch to 0.75 Cubic Inch, 0.75 Cubic Inch Can be between ˜0.80 cubic inches. In other embodiments, the cavity 120 is 0.20 cubic inches, 0.22 cubic inches, 0.26 cubic inches, 0.28 cubic inches, 0.30 cubic inches, 0.32 cubic inches, 0.34 cubic inches. inches, 0.36 cubic inches, 0.38 cubic inches, 0.40 cubic inches, 0.42 cubic inches, 0.44 cubic inches, 0.46 cubic inches, 0.48 cubic inches, 0.50 cubic inches, 0.54 cubic inches 0.56 cubic inches 0.58 cubic inches 0.60 cubic inches 0.62 cubic inches 0.64 cubic inches 0.66 cubic inches 0.68 cubic inches 0.68 cubic inches It can have a volume of 70 cubic inches, 0.72 cubic inches, 0.74 cubic inches, 0.76 cubic inches, 0.78 cubic inches, or 0.80 cubic inches.

Cavity 120 can have a volume of 5% to 60% of the total club head volume, as described above. In some embodiments, the cavity 120 comprises 5%-10%, 10%-30%, 15%-35%, 20%-40%, 25%-45%, 30%-50% of the total club head volume. %, 35%-55%, or 40%-60%. In one embodiment, the volume of cavity 120 is between 17% and 32% of the club head volume.

Increasing the volume of cavity 120 eliminates weight from the central region of body 110 . This saved weight can be redistributed around the golf club head 100 to give the golf club head 100 greater forgiveness. The height, depth and volume of the upper and lower portions 108, 109 of the body 110 provide the club head 100 with the CG 60 positioned low. Thus, the golf club head 100 has a lower CG than a golf club head with a flat rear, as exemplified in Example 3 below. As noted above, the golf club head 100 can include a CG 60 that is 0.030 inches to 0.050 inches lower than the CG of the flat back comparison golf club head. The lower the CG60, the golf club head 100 has better launch characteristics, better spin characteristics, and higher ball speed than a flat back golf club head.

6) Golf club head thickness profile

The thickness of the rear 103 of the body 110 also affects the weight of the golf club head 100 and thus the CG position. The thickness is measured from the outer surface of rear 103 to the inner surface of rear 103 within cavity 120 . In some embodiments, rear 103 of body 110 is thicker at portions of body 110 adjacent sole 107 . Due to the density of the material of body 110, the greater thickness of the portion adjacent sole 107 moves mass downward compared to a golf club head body having a uniform rear thickness. Rear 103 of body 110 can have a thickness 113, as shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. Rear thickness 113 may range from 0.030 inches to 0.100 inches. In some embodiments, thickness 113 is 0.030 inch, 0.040 inch, 0.050 inch, 0.060 inch, 0.070 inch, 0.080 inch, 0.090 inch, or 0.090 inch. It can be 100 inches. Rear thickness 113 may be constant across rear 103 . In some embodiments, the rear thickness 113 varies across the rear 103 in the heel-toe direction and/or the top rail-sole direction. Varying thickness 113 of rear 103 can help move mass toward sole 107 and rear 103 of golf club head 100 . Shifting mass toward sole 107 and rear 103 lowers CG, which improves launch characteristics, improves spin characteristics, and increases ball speed.

7) Body cavity

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, body 110 may include an inner peripheral edge 127 that defines the outer boundary of cavity 120 . An inner peripheral edge 127 surrounds the cavity 120 . Perimeter 127 internally bounds top rail 106 , sole 107 , toe 101 and heel 102 . The inner peripheral edge 127 may follow the contour of the outer edge of the golf club head 100 . Perimeter edge 127 of cavity 120 extends as close as possible to the edge of golf club head 100 , thereby maximizing the size of cavity 120 . As a result, the size of the low density insert 140 and its weight advantage are also maximized.

In some embodiments (not shown), perimeter 127 is such that, in a longitudinally cut cross-section of golf club head 100 , cavity 120 has a larger area nearer front 104 and a smaller area nearer rear 103 . gently taper to cover In these embodiments, this tapered shape allows a larger area adjacent to the front 104 to capture more surface area of the low density insert, thereby being positioned closer to the front 104 . Less internal cavity area is left for the low density insert, leaving more high density material at the rear 103 of the golf club head 100 . Thus, the shape of the cavity 120 allows more mass to be placed adjacent the rear 103 and sole 107 of the golf club head 100, allowing the CG to move downward and rearward.

8) Dimples in golf club head cavities

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, front 104 of body 110 further includes recess 142 for receiving faceplate 155 . Recess 142 connects to the front opening of cavity 120 but is not considered part of cavity 120 . The recesses 142 generally follow the contours of the golf club head 100, including, but not limited to, the top rail 106, the edge of the body within the toe 101, the sole 107, and a generally vertical split line adjacent to the heel 102. It has a rim 143 . A peripheral edge 143 of the recess 142 is offset from the inner peripheral edge 127 that defines the cavity 120 . The bottom surface of recess 142 is larger than the area bounded by inner perimeter edge 127 at the front of cavity 120 as bounded by perimeter edge 143 . The recess 142 has a depth approximately equal to the thickness of the faceplate 155, which will be described later.

Faceplate 155 aligns with recess 142 and is positioned within cavity 120 and seats on recess 142 . An insert 140 (described below) fits within the cavity to a volume flush with the recess 142 . The remaining volume of cavity 120 is filled by faceplate 155 which seats in recess 142 . Together, insert 140 and faceplate 155 fill the entire volume of cavity 120 and recess 142 of golf club head 100 . The insert 140 does not cover the recess 142 , but rather lies flush with the recess 142 . This allows the insert 140 not to interfere with the faceplate 155 seated in the recess 142 .

In other embodiments described below, the insert 140 does not fill the volume of the cavity 120 up to the recess 142, but only partially. Again, these embodiments require inserts 140 that do not interfere with faceplate 155 that sits on recesses 142 .

B. golf club head insert

In contrast to conventional single material tour irons, golf club head 100 includes a low density insert 140 that fits within cavity 120 of body 110 . As illustrated in FIG. 1, insert 140 is molded to fit within cavity 120 . The insert 140 either completely fills or partially fills the cavity 120 as described above. In some embodiments, insert 140 shares a wall geometry with cavity 120 . The shape of the insert 140 may be the same or nearly the same as the shape of the cavity 120 . In embodiments in which the insert substantially fills cavity 140 , the volume and other dimensions of insert 120 approximately correspond to the respective volumes and other dimensions of cavity 140 . As discussed below, manufacturing tolerances and insertion of tape and/or adhesive into cavity 120 may require insert 140 to occupy a slightly smaller volume as compared to cavity 120 .

1) Multi-material (multi-density) inserts

6-9, in some embodiments, a multi-material insert 440 is used in place of insert 140. FIG. Multi-material insert 440 can include dimensions and volumes similar to those of insert 140 . The multi-material insert 440 can include a first portion 450 and a second portion 460 of different materials having different densities. In some embodiments, the first portion 450 is the low density portion and the second portion 460 is the weight. Adding weight to the lower portion of the insert 440 lowers the CG60 of the golf club head 100, which improves launch characteristics and increases ball speed. Adding weight to lower the CG60 can also increase ball speed and improve the feel of the golf club head 100 . In other embodiments, the first portion 450 is a vibration dampening material and the second portion 460 is a low density material. Forming first portion 450 from a vibration damping material can affect the feel and sound of golf club head 100 . By forming the insert 440 from multiple materials, the feel, sound, and perimeter weighting of the golf club head 100 can be altered.

Inserts 440 may be oriented in any orientation or combination relative to each other so long as first portion 450 and second portion 460 form insert 440 configured to fit within cavity 120 of body 110 as described above. It can be formed with first portion 450 and second portion 460 . First portion 450 may be separate from second portion 460 or integrally formed into a single multi-material insert 440 . Various embodiments of multi-material inserts 440, 440B, 440C, and 440D are shown in FIGS. 6-9 and described below.

Referring to FIG. 6, insert 440 includes first portion 450 and second portion 460 . Insert 440 may be designed to fit within cavity 120 of golf club head 100 . The cross-section of FIG. 6 is taken along center plane 45 of golf club head 100 . A first portion 450 of insert 440 is adjacent strike plate 155 and includes a first material. A second portion 460 of insert 440 is adjacent rear 103 of body 110 and includes a second material. First portion 450 overlaps second portion 460 . A first portion 450 of insert 440 includes a front surface that abuts rear surface 128 of faceplate 155 . Second portion 460 does not engage faceplate 155 . Second portion 460 includes a front surface that engages the rear surface of first portion 450 . Second portion 460 is confined within a section of cavity 120 of lower portion 109 of golf club head 100 .

In some embodiments, the engaging surfaces of one or both of the first and second portions 450, 460 have small features (not shown) that extend outwardly from the generally flat surface to increase the surface area of engagement. ). These small features may include protrusions, lips, ribs, hooks, or any other suitable feature. These features allow first portion 450 to be secured to second portion 460 through a molding or co-molding process.

7-9, three additional exemplary embodiments of multi-material inserts are depicted in cross-sectional views of club head 100 along centerplane 45. As shown in FIG. A second embodiment of a multi-material insert 440B includes a first portion 450B and a second portion 460B arranged as shown in FIG. In this embodiment, the first portion 450B forms the top portion of the insert 440B and the second portion 460B forms the bottom portion of the insert 440B. Both first portion 450B and second portion 460B are coplanar with faceplate 155 . First portion 450 B fills a portion of cavity 120 within upper portion 108 of body 110 . Second portion 460 B fills a portion of cavity 120 within lower portion 109 of body 110 . The second portion 460B is coplanar with the entire inner sole wall of cavity 120 .

A third embodiment of a multi-material insert 440C includes a first portion 450C and a second portion 460C arranged as shown in FIG. In this embodiment, first portion 450C comprises the majority of the volume of insert 440C. The first portion 450C extends partially into the rear end of the insert 440C. The entire second portion 460C is located behind the first portion 450C. First portion 450C is flush with faceplate 155 from top rail 106 to sole 107 within the cavity of golf club head 100 . Second portion 460C does not engage faceplate 155 . The second portion 460C partially fills a portion of the cavity 120 within the lower portion 109 of the body 110 and is completely disposed therein. The second portion 460C engages the inner sole wall of the cavity 120 and a portion of the rear rear wall. In some embodiments, second portion 460C is formed from a high density material.

A fourth embodiment of a multi-material insert 440D includes a first portion 450D and a second portion 460D arranged as shown in FIG. In this embodiment, first portion 450D extends partially into the rear end of insert 440D. First portion 450D engages second portion 460D along a plane angled with respect to loft plane 20 . Additionally, the first portion 450D is wider adjacent the bottom of the insert 440D than adjacent the top of the insert 440D. With respect to golf club head 100 , first portion 450D is wider adjacent sole 107 than adjacent top rail 106 . First portion 450D is flush with faceplate 155 from top rail 106 to sole 107 within cavity 120 of golf club head 100 . Second portion 460D does not engage faceplate 155 . The second portion 460D partially fills a portion of the cavity 120 within the lower portion 109 of the body 110 and is completely disposed therein. Second portion 460C engages the rear rear wall of cavity 120 . In some embodiments, second portion 460D is formed from a high density material. Golf club head 100 with multi-material insert 440 provides improved feel and sound compared to tour irons without inserts.

In yet another embodiment of golf club head 100 having a multi-material insert (not shown), second portions similar to second portions 460, 460B, 460C, 460D are formed primarily at toe 101 of golf club head 110. can be placed in This provides a toe weight effect that works similarly to toe weight 161 described below. Embodiments with the second portion of the insert acting as a tow weight do not require an external tow weight. Welding at the tow weight is no longer required, which improves aesthetics and simplifies manufacturing.

2) Lightweight insert

In some embodiments, a lightening insert 240 is used in place of insert 140 . Lightening insert 240 shown in FIGS. 10-13 has a shape and size similar to insert 140 . In other words, lightening insert 240 is configured to fit within cavity 120 of golf club head 100 . The lightweight insert 240 is divided into an insert upper portion 250 (toward the top rail of the golf club head) and an insert lower portion 260 (toward the sole of the golf club head). The insert upper portion 250 can be separated from the insert lower portion 260 by an insert flex seam 245 . The insert upper portion 250 may be solid. The insert lower portion 260 includes a recess 269 extending inwardly from the front surface 241 of the insert 240 to give the insert lower portion 260 a shell-out structure and reduce insert weight.

Insert 240 includes front surface 241 , rear surface 242 , perimeter 244 and insert flex seam 245 . A depth 243 of the insert 240 may be measured perpendicular to the front surface 241 in the anterior-posterior direction. Front surface 241 is substantially parallel to loft surface 20 . In some embodiments, a portion of rear surface 242 of insert upper portion 250 is also substantially parallel to loft surface 20 . Lower portion 260 of insert 240 has a greater depth 243 than insert upper portion 250 . Insert upper portion 250 has a maximum depth that is less than the maximum depth of insert lower portion 260 . In some embodiments, insert upper portion 250 includes uniform depth 243 . The ratio of depth 243 of insert upper portion 250 to insert lower portion 260 may range from 1:3 to 1:10.

Upper portion 250 and lower portion 260 of the insert can each include a length measured in a heel-to-toe (substantially horizontal) direction. Maximum insert upper portion length 248 can be greater than maximum insert lower portion length 249 . In some embodiments, the shorter lower portion 260 is due to the toe weight occupying the lower space of the golf club 100 . Due to the tow weight in these embodiments, the lower portion of the insert cavity is shorter than the upper portion of the insert cavity.

The insert upper portion 250 is solid and bounded by the insert perimeter 244 . The perimeter of the insert upper portion 250 includes a top rail edge 256 , a toe edge 251 and a heel edge 252 . The insert perimeter 244 can be configured to be flush with the walls of the cavity 120 . In some embodiments, toe end 251 has a bend to connect longer insert upper portion 250 to insert lower portion 260 . Insert upper portion 250 forms part of front face 241 of insert 240 . The front face 241 of the insert 240 lies adjacent to and/or flat against the back face plate of the club head, as shown in FIG.

The insert lower portion 260 includes a rear wall 263, a toe end wall 261, a heel end wall 262, a bottom wall 267, and a top wall 266 which together form a recess 269 ( or cavity). In some embodiments, recess 269 only opens into the faceplate and not into the other walls of cavity 120 . In some embodiments, there are one or more ribs 268 across recess 269 to provide structural support to insert 240 . One or more ribs 268 can also provide structural support to the face. The one or more ribs 268 may be oriented substantially orthogonal to the faceplate when the insert 240 is installed in the club head body. The one or more ribs 268 can be oriented substantially parallel to the top rail-to-sole direction. One or more ribs 268 can alter the feel or sound of the club upon impact with a golf ball. In some embodiments, at least one of the ribs 268 can be provided with a rounded peg break point (not shown) to accommodate the gate break required for die casting manufacturing methods. In other embodiments, one or more ribs 268 are thick enough to be blocked without the need for round peg blocking points.

One or more ribs 268 divide, separate, and/or subdivide the insert recess 269 into multiple sections or one or more smaller recesses. In some embodiments, one or more ribs 268 subdivide the lower portion 260 into 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8 sections or small recesses. The insert shown in Figures 10 and 11 is divided into five recesses.

Lower portion recess 269 reduces the material volume of insert 240 and thus reduces the weight of insert 240 . In some embodiments, the lightening insert 240 can be 5-10 grams lighter than a similar insert lacking lightening recesses. In some embodiments, the lightening insert 240 weighs 5-6g, 5.5-6.5g, 6-7g, 6.5-7.5g, 6.5-7.5g, 5-6g, 5.5-6.5g, 6-7g, 6.5-7.5g, 5-6g, 5.5-6.5g, 6-7g, 6.5-7. Weight savings of 7-8 g, 7.5-8.5 g, 8-9 g, 8.5-9.5 g, or 9-10 g can be achieved. In some embodiments, the lightening insert 240 may be approximately 5g, 6g, 7g, 8g, 9g, or 10g lighter than a similar insert lacking lightening recesses. For example, in one comparison, a 7-iron lightweight insert weighs 7.1 grams less than a 7-iron solid aluminum insert such as that described for golf club head 100 above.

A second embodiment of a lightening insert 270 is shown in FIGS. 14-16. A modification of this embodiment is shown in FIG. Lightening insert 270 is similar to lightening insert 240 . The lightened insert 270 comprises a front surface 271 , a rear surface, a perimeter 274 and an insert flex seam 275 . The depth of lightening insert 270 can be similar to the depth of lightening insert 240 . An insert upper portion 280 is defined above the insert flex seam 275 and an insert lower portion 290 is defined below the insert flex seam 275 . The insert upper portion 280 comprises at least one connecting rail 284 forming two or more openings 285 (or lightening zones). Two or more openings 285 reduce the material required to form insert 270 and therefore the weight of insert 270 .

Within insert upper portion 280 , perimeter 274 forms a frame that supports at least one connecting rail 284 . Perimeter 274 includes top rail 286 , heel end rail 282 and toe end rail 281 . Heel end rail 282 and toe end rail 281 connect top rail 286 to insert lower portion 290 . The insert upper portion 280 can be integrally formed with the insert lower portion 290 at the insert flex seam 275 . At least one connecting rail 284 extends from one end of the perimeter frame to the other end of the perimeter frame. The at least one connecting rail 284 can extend in a toe-to-heel direction, a top rail-to-sole direction, or a direction that is angled from any of the aforementioned directions. The at least one connection rail 284 can include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more connection rails 284. .

Insert upper portion 280 may include a subset of connecting rails 284 . In some embodiments, a subset of connecting rails 284 may be arranged horizontally (generally in a toe-heel direction). In some embodiments, a subset of connecting rails 284 may be arranged vertically (generally in a top rail-to-sole direction). In some embodiments, horizontally positioned subsets of connecting rails 284 intersect vertically positioned subsets of connecting rails 284 .

The two or more openings 285 can include voids, openings, recesses, holes, or regions without material. Two or more openings 285 are formed by perimeter 274 and at least one connecting rail 284 . In some embodiments, two or more openings 285 are arranged in a grid pattern across insert upper portion 280 . The portion of rail 284 that forms two or more openings 285 may have a rounded break point at their intersection (not shown), similar to the break point (not shown) on insert lower portion 290 . fulfill functionality. The pattern of openings 285 helps reduce the weight of insert 270 .

The insert lower portion 290 of the second lightening insert 270 is similar to the insert lower portion 250 of the first lightening insert 240 . In the embodiment shown in Figure 14, the insert includes two ribs 298 subdividing the lower portion recess 299 into three recesses. The three recesses can have unequal dimensions due to the location of ribs 298 adjacent either end of recess 299 . In the embodiment shown in Figure 16, the insert 270 includes five ribs 298 that subdivide the lower portion recess 299 into six recesses. In some embodiments (not shown), one or more gate break points may be positioned coincident with one or more ribs 298 .

The insert lower portion recess 299 and the insert upper portion opening 285 reduce the material volume of the insert 270 and thus reduce the weight of the second lightened insert 270 . In some embodiments, second lightening insert 270 may be 5-12 grams lighter than a similar insert lacking lightening recesses 299 and openings 285 . In some embodiments, the lightening insert 270 weighs 5-6g, 5.5-6.5g, 6-7g, 6.5-7g more than a similar insert lacking the lightening recess 299 and opening 285. .5g, 7-8g, 7.5-8.5g, 8-9g, 8.5-9.5g, 9-10g, 9.5-10.5g, 10-11g, 10.5-11.5g , or 11-12 g lighter. In some embodiments, the lightening insert 270 may be approximately 5g, 6g, 7g, 8g, 9g, 10g, 11g, or 12g lighter than a similar insert lacking the lightening recesses 299 and openings 285. can.

3) the volume of the cavity filled with the golf club head insert;

As noted above, the insert 140 can completely or partially fill the cavity 120 of the golf club head 100 . Insert 140 can fill between 80% and 100% of the volume of cavity 120 . In some embodiments, the insert 140 is between 80%-85%, 85%-90%, 90%-95%, 95%-100%, 80%-90%, or 90%-100% The volume of cavity 120 can be filled. In contrast to conventional hollow-body irons, golf club head 100 does not have a completely air-filled cavity. Rather, cavity 120 is at least partially filled with insert 140 .

Referring back to FIGS. 6-9 , in embodiments having multi-material inserts such as insert 440 , first portion 450 can fill most of cavity 120 . A second portion 460 can fill the remainder of the cavity 120 . In some embodiments not shown, the first and second portions together only partially fill cavity 120 . In embodiments with multi-material insert 440 , first portion 450 can fill 20% to 90% of the volume of cavity 120 . In some embodiments, the first portion 450 is 20%-30%, 30%-40%, 40%-50%, 50%-60%, 60%-70%, 70%-80%, Or it can be 80% to 90% filled. Second portion 460 may fill 10% to 80% of the volume of cavity 120 . In some embodiments, the second portion 460 can be 10%-20%, 20%-30%, 30%-40%, 40%-50% filled.

Because the first and second portions 450, 460 are formed of different materials having different densities, as described in more detail below, the volume of the first and second portions 450, 460 is the same as that of the golf club head. Affects the total weight of 100. Many design parameters must be considered together in golf club head design. By forming the insert from multiple materials, mass placement can be controlled to increase perimeter weighting and lower CG, leading to improved launch characteristics and higher ball speeds.

4) Tape layer in combination with the golf club head insert

In some embodiments, tape layer 150 is positioned between insert 140 and strike face 111 within cavity 120 . As seen in FIG. 19, tape layer 150 is sandwiched between insert 140 and faceplate 155 . Embodiments of golf club heads with multi-material inserts such as 440 similarly include tape layers between first portion 450 and faceplate 155 or between first portion 450 of insert 440 and body 110 . 150 can be included. Within golf club head 100 , insert 140 fits within body 110 , tape layer 150 may optionally be placed on insert 140 , faceplate 155 covers tape layer 150 and covers recess 142 in body 110 . to fill.

In some embodiments (not shown), the second tape layer can lie flush with the inner surface of the rear 103 of the body 110 within the cavity 120 . A second tape layer can be sandwiched between the rear 103 of the body 110 and the insert 140 . In some embodiments, the third tape layer can lie flush with the bottom of cavity 120 . A third tape layer may be sandwiched between the sole 107 of the body 110 and the insert 140 . Golf club head 100 may include one or more of first tape layer 150, second tape layer, and third tape layer.

Tape layer 150, the second tape layer, or the third tape layer may include materials such as very high binding (hereinafter "VHB") tape. VHB tape is such that the original thickness of the tape layer 150 (measured perpendicular to the strike face 111) when first applied is greater than the thickness of the compressed tape layer in the assembled golf club head 100. is compressible, as is also large. The second and third tape layers may be compressible as well. The compressible nature of one or more tape layers reduces the likelihood of rattling caused by manufacturing tolerances between body 110 and insert 140 . Additionally, the one or more tape layers can provide vibration damping and positively influence the feel and sound of the golf club head 100 .

C. golf club head faceplate

A full golf club head 100 is formed by the combination of body 110 , insert 120 and faceplate 155 . Body 110 includes a cavity 120 opening at front 104 of golf club head 100 . The opening is covered by faceplate 155 to completely enclose cavity 120 and insert 140 . As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, cavity 120 and insert 140 are not visible from the outside of golf club head 100 when insert 140 is positioned within cavity 120 . By hiding the insert 140 within the golf club head 100, the appearance of the golf club head 100 can resemble that of a conventional tour iron.

Thus, a portion of front 104 of body 110 and faceplate 155 form strikeface 111 . Strike face 111 may cover 70% to 95% of the surface area of front 104 of golf club head 100 . In some embodiments, the strike face 111 can cover 70%-80%, 75%-85%, 80%-90%, or 85%-95% of the surface area of the front of the golf club head 100. . Additionally, the front surface of strike face 111 may comprise one or more grooves. In some embodiments, the groove extends beyond the edge of faceplate 155 and over a portion of body 110 .

Faceplate 155 may comprise a different material than body 110, as described below. In some embodiments, the material of faceplate 155 is stronger than the material of body 110 . The majority of strike face 111 is formed by faceplate 155 to take advantage of the faceplate 155 material. Faceplate 155 may form 50% to 95% of the surface area of front 104 of golf club head 100 . In some embodiments, faceplate 155 forms 50%-60%, 60%-70%, 70%-80%, 80%-90%, or 85%-95% of the surface area of strike face 111. can do. Both the faceplate 155 and body 110 portions of the strike face 111 provide a solid feel because the insert 140 firmly supports the faceplate 155 despite having different materials. Body 110 , insert 140 , and faceplate 155 can all contribute to the consistent feel and sound of golf club head 100 when golf club head 100 impacts a golf ball on various areas of faceplate 155 . can.

1) Other faceplate features

The support provided to faceplate 155 by insert 140 allows a thinner faceplate 155 to be used with golf club head 100 . As shown in FIG. 5, faceplate 155 of golf club head 100 has a thickness 112 . Thickness 112 may range from 0.030 inches to 0.100 inches. In some embodiments, faceplate thickness 112 is 0.030 inch, 0.040 inch, 0.050 inch, 0.060 inch, 0.070 inch, 0.080 inch, 0.090 inch, or 0.100 inches. The faceplate thickness 112 may be constant across the faceplate 155 . In some embodiments, the faceplate thickness 112 can vary in either the heel-toe direction or the top rail-to-sole direction. In some embodiments, faceplate thickness 112 may vary radially from the center of faceplate 155 .

In other embodiments, faceplate 155 may further include variable thickness regions. In some embodiments, the central region of faceplate 155 can be thicker than the peripheral region of faceplate 155 . In some embodiments, the thickened central region can include an elliptical shape. The thickness of faceplate 155 may taper from the center of faceplate 155 toward the periphery.

D. Other perimeter weighting of the golf club head (tip weight, toe weight)

In addition to the perimeter weighting and swing characteristics provided by insert 140 and body 110, golf club head 100 may further include other perimeter-type weights. In some embodiments, golf club head 100 may further comprise tip weight 160 . Tip weight 160 is a weight that fits at the junction between hosel 105 and the golf club shaft. Tip weight 160 provides additional perimeter weighting to club head 100 . As shown in FIG. 20, tip weight 160 fits within hosel 105 of body 110 . Tip weight 160 may be cylindrical, spherical, cubical, or any other suitable shape. Tip weight 160 may be positioned higher or lower within hosel 105 than shown in FIG.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 20 , the body 110 of the golf club head 100 may further include a toe cavity 114 . Toe cavity 114 is designed to accommodate toe weight 161 , which improves the perimeter weighting and swing characteristics of golf club head 100 . 3 and 4 show toe cavity 114 with tow weight 161 attached. FIG. 20 shows toe weight 161 removed from toe cavity 114 . In some embodiments, toe cavity 114 is located partially within sole 107 and partially within toe 101 . In some embodiments, toe cavity 114 is located entirely within toe 101 of golf club head 100 and adjacent sole 107 . In some embodiments, toe cavity 114 lies entirely within sole 107 and adjoins toe 101 . In some embodiments, tow cavity 114 is located entirely within tow 101 . In some embodiments, toe cavity 114 is centrally located in toe 101 and approximately halfway between top rail 106 and sole 107 .

In some embodiments, toe cavity 114 is visible from a rear view of body 110 of club head 100 . In other embodiments, toe cavity 114 is not visible from the rear view of body 110 . In some embodiments, toe cavity 114 is visible from a toe side view of body 110 . In other embodiments, toe cavity 114 is not visible from the toe side view of body 110 . In some embodiments, toe cavity 114 is visible from the sole view of body 110 . In other embodiments, toe cavity 114 is not visible from the sole view of body 110 . In the embodiment of Figures 1-13, the toe cavity 114 is visible from the rear, sole and side toe views.

Toe weight 161 is formed to match the contour of toe cavity 114 of body 110 . The outer wall of the toe weight 161 is designed along the curve of the golf club head body 110 . In some embodiments, the mass of tow weight 161 may be between 5% and 45% of the mass of body 110 . In some embodiments, the mass of the tow weight 161 is 5%-20%, 5%-15%, 10%-20%, 15%-25%, 20%-40%, 20% of the mass of the body 110. % to 30%, 30% to 40%, or 35% to 45%.

In some embodiments, body 110 of golf club head 100 may further include a toe screw weight port (not shown) at toe 101 . Golf club head 100 may further include a toe screw weight that fits within the screw weight port. In some embodiments, the tow screw weights can include a mass between 2 grams and 15 grams, as described below. A screw weight having one weight value can be replaced with a different screw weight having a different weight value to customize the golf club head 100 to a golfer's swing.

In some embodiments, there are combinations of the above weights, including inserts, toe weights, tip weights, and toe screw weights. Other embodiments may comprise multi-material inserts in combination with one or more of toe weights, tip weights, and toe screw weights. Still other embodiments comprise lightening inserts in combination with one or more of toe weights, tip weights, and toe screw weights. For example, some embodiments include lightening inserts, tip weights, and toe screw weights.

E. material

The materials forming body 110 , insert 140 , and faceplate 155 affect the mass distribution of golf club head 100 . As a result, the MOI and CG of the golf club head 100 are also affected by the density of the material. Additionally, these materials provide the necessary strength and flexibility for the golf club head 100 . Golf club head 100 includes one or more, two or more, three or more, or four or more materials. In some embodiments, the material may be a first density, second density, third density, fourth density, fifth density, or sixth density.

In some embodiments, faceplate 155 can include a first material of a first density. Body 110 may include a second material of a second density. Insert 140 can include a third material of a third density. The third density can be less than the first density and/or the second density. In some embodiments, faceplate 155 can be the same material (and thus the same density) as body 110 . As noted above, in some embodiments, the insert 440 is made of two or more materials, the materials of which have different densities from each other and which may be different or the same with respect to the material of the faceplate 155 and/or the body 110. can include

1) Body material

Body 110 may comprise materials such as steel, steel alloys, or any other suitable material. In some embodiments, body 110 can include different density materials for faceplate 155 and insert 140 . The material may comprise a material selected from the group consisting of steel-based materials or steel alloys. In some embodiments, the body material comprises iron, about 0.17-0.23 wt% carbon, 0.15-0.35 wt% silicon, and 0.60-0.90 wt% of manganese, 0.15-0.30 wt.% molybdenum, 0.40-0.70 wt.% nickel, 0.40-0.65 wt.% chromium, and 0.040 wt.% phosphorus and trace amounts of other elements. In some embodiments, the body material comprises iron, about 18-19 wt% nickel, 8.5-9.5 wt% cobalt, and 4.6-5.2 wt% molybdenum; It can be a 300 grade steel containing 0.5-0.8% by weight titanium, 0.05-0.15% by weight aluminum and trace amounts of other elements. In some embodiments, the body material comprises iron, about 17-19 wt.% nickel, 8-12.5 wt.% cobalt, 3.0-5.2 wt.% molybdenum, and 0.5 wt. It can be a maraging steel containing 15-1.6 wt% titanium, 0.05-0.15 wt% aluminum, and trace amounts of other elements. The density of the material of body 110 may range from 7.70 to 8.10 grams per cubic centimeter (hereinafter “g/cc”). In some embodiments, the density of the body material is 7.70 g/cc, 7.75 g/cc, 7.80 g/cc, 7.85 g/cc, 7.90 g/cc, 7.95 g/cc, 8 05 g/cc, or 8.10 g/cc. In one embodiment, the body material has a density of 7.85 g/cc.

2) Insert material

Insert 140 may be made of titanium, titanium alloys, aluminum, aluminum alloys, elastomers, polymer matrix composites, any other suitable low density material, or any other suitable density material that is less than the material of body 110. Including materials. The aluminum alloy can be a high strength aluminum alloy or a composite aluminum alloy coated with a high strength alloy. The polymer matrix composite may be glass-filled elastomer, stainless steel-filled elastomer, tungsten-filled elastomer, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), or any other elastomer matrix composite, Kevlar® (aramid ) fiber reinforced polymers, carbon fiber reinforced polymers, or any combination of suitable resins and suitable reinforcing fibers. The polymer matrix composite can be an elastomeric matrix composite. In some embodiments, the metallic material can be a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, an aluminum alloy, a titanium alloy, or any combination thereof. The steel base material can be 17-4PH stainless steel, 431, 455, 475, C300, maraging steel, or other types of stainless steel. The aluminum alloy can be a high strength aluminum alloy or a composite aluminum alloy coated with a high strength alloy. Titanium alloys can be Ti-9S, Ti-6-4, i-15-3-3-3. The titanium alloy can be an α-β titanium alloy.

Insert 140 may include materials of different densities for body 110 and faceplate 155 . Suitable materials for insert 140 can include any material having a density lower than that of the body material. In some embodiments, particularly those having metal insert materials, the density of the insert 140 material can range from 2.4 to 5.0 g/cc. In some embodiments, the density of the insert 140 material is 2.4 g/cc, 2.5 g/cc, 2.6 g/cc, 2.7 g/cc, 2.8 g/cc, 2.9 g/cc, 3.0 g/cc, 3.1 g/cc, 3.2 g/cc, 3.3 g/cc, 3.4 g/cc, 3.5 g/cc, 3.6 g/cc, 3.7 g/cc; 8g/cc, 3.9g/cc, 4.0g/cc, 4.1g/cc, 4.2g/cc, 4.3g/cc, 4.4g/cc, 4.5g/cc, 4.6g/cc cc, 4.7 g/cc, 4.8 g/cc, 4.9 g/cc/cc, or 5.0 g/cc. In one embodiment, the insert 140 material is aluminum and the insert 140 material has a density of about 2.7 g/cc. In another embodiment, the insert 140 material is titanium and the insert 140 material has a density of about 4.5 g/cc.

In some embodiments, particularly those having polymer matrix composites, the density of insert 140 can range from 1.0 to 12.0 g/cc. In preferred embodiments of polymer matrix composites, the density of insert 140 may range from 1.0 g/cc to 5.0 g/cc. In some embodiments, the density of the insert 140 is 1.0 g/cc, 1.5 g/cc, 2.0 g/cc, 2.5 g/cc, 3.0 g/cc, 3.5 g/cc, 4 0 g/cc, 4.5 g/cc, or 5.0 g/cc. The lower density of the inserts 140 results in a lighter center portion of the club head that houses the inserts 140, allowing weight to be redistributed around the circumference of the club head. The redistributed weight increases the MOI.

In some embodiments of golf club head 100, insert 440 includes separate portions formed from different materials and different densities. In some embodiments, the first and second portions 450, 460 of the insert 440 can each be formed from any of the materials described above for single material inserts. In some embodiments, first portion 450 of insert 140 is formed from an elastomer or polymer matrix composite material comprising a density between 0.8 g/cc and 1.4 g/cc, and second portion 460 of insert 440 is is formed from aluminum or an aluminum alloy containing a density of 1.5 g/cc to 3.0 g/cc.

In some embodiments of golf club head 100, first portion 450 of insert 440 may comprise any of the materials described above having a density between 1.0 g/cc and 12.0 g/cc. In some embodiments, second portion 460 of insert 440 can comprise a material having a density higher than that of the body material. In some embodiments, the second portion 460 of the insert 440 comprises any of the materials described below for the tow weight 161 and is a weight portion having a density of 14.0-19.6 g/cc. can be done. In some of these embodiments, toe weight 161 is not necessary as second portion 460 of insert 140 serves a similar purpose.

The weight of insert 140 or 440 can range from 10 grams to 50 grams. In some embodiments, the weight of the insert 140 is 10 grams, 11 grams, 12 grams, 13 grams, 14 grams, 15 grams, 16 grams, 17 grams, 18 grams, 19 grams, 20 grams, 21 grams, 22 grams. grams, 23 grams, 24 grams, 25 grams, 26 grams, 27 grams, 28 grams, 29 grams, 30 grams, 31 grams, 32 grams, 33 grams, 34 grams, 35 grams, 36 grams, 37 grams, 38 grams, 39 grams, 40 grams, 41 grams, 42 grams, 43 grams, 44 grams, 45 grams, 46 grams, 47 grams, 48 grams, 49 grams, 50 grams. In multi-material insert embodiments in which the second portion 460 of the insert comprises a material similar to that of the tow weight 161 described below, the weight of the insert 140 or 440 and the insert 140 or 440 is between 10 grams and 70 grams. Grams range. In some embodiments, the multi-material insert 140 or 440 weighs 10 grams to 20 grams, 20 grams to 30 grams, 30 grams to 40 grams, 40 grams to 50 grams, 50 grams to 60 grams, or 60 grams. Can be ~70 grams.

Additionally, inserts 140 and 440 provide structural support to strike face 111 . In embodiments having a metal insert material, insert 140 or 440, or a portion of insert 140 or 440, may include a Rockwell B hardness of 30 HRB to 100 HRB. In some embodiments, insert 140 or 440, or a portion of insert 140 or 440, has a can have a Rockwell B hardness between In other embodiments, insert 140, or a portion of insert 140, comprises 3 HRB, 3 HRB, 32 HRB, 33 HRB, 34 HRB, 35 HRB, 36 HRB, 37 HRB, 38 HRB, 39 HRB, 40 HRB, 41 HRB, 42 HRB, 43 HRB, 44 HRB, 45 HRB, ４６ＨＲＢ、４７ＨＲＢ、４８ＨＲＢ、４９ＨＲＢ、５０ＨＲＢ、５１ＨＲＢ、５２ＨＲＢ、５３ＨＲＢ、５４ＨＲＢ、５５ＨＲＢ、５６ＨＲＢ、５７ＨＲＢ、５８ＨＲＢ、５９ＨＲＢ、６０ＨＲＢ、６１ＨＲＢ、６２ＨＲＢ、６３ＨＲＢ、６４ＨＲＢ、６５ＨＲＢ、６６ＨＲＢ、６７ＨＲＢ、６８ＨＲＢ、６９ＨＲＢ、７０ＨＲＢ、 ７１ＨＲＢ、７２ＨＲＢ、７３ＨＲＢ、７４ＨＲＢ、７５ＨＲＢ、７６ＨＲＢ、７７ＨＲＢ、７８ＨＲＢ、７９ＨＲＢ、８０ＨＲＢ、８１ＨＲＢ、８２ＨＲＢ、８３ＨＲＢ、８４ＨＲＢ、８５ＨＲＢ、８６ＨＲＢ、８７ＨＲＢ、８８ＲＢ、８９ ＨＲＢ、９０ＨＲＢ、９１ＨＲＢ、９２ＨＲＢ、９３ＨＲＢ、９４ＨＲＢ、９５ＨＲＢ , 96 HRB, 97 HRB, 98 HRB, 99 HRB, or 100 HRB. In other embodiments with metal inserts, insert 140 or 440, or a portion of insert 140 or 440, may include a Rockwell C hardness of between 30 HRC and 60 HRC. In some embodiments, insert 140 or 440 can have a hardness between 30 HRC and 40 HRC, 35 HRC and 45 HRC, 40 HRC and 50 HRC, 45 HRC and 50 HRC, or 50 HRC and 60 HRC. In other embodiments, the insert has a , 51 HRC, 52 HRC, 53 HRC, 54 HRC, 55 HRC, 56 HRC, 57 HRC, 58 HRC, 59 HRC, or 60 HRC. In embodiments including titanium or titanium alloy inserts 140 or 440, the insert hardness is 44 HRC.

3) Faceplate material

Faceplate 155 may be formed from a faceplate material. In some embodiments, the faceplate material is the same material as body 110 material. In other embodiments, the faceplate material is a different material than the body material. In some embodiments, faceplate 155 can include different density materials for body 110 and insert 140 .

The faceplate material can be a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, a titanium alloy, or any combination thereof. The steel base material can be carbon steel, 17-4PH stainless steel, 431, 455, 475, C300, maraging steel, or other types of stainless steel. The titanium alloy can be Ti-7S+ (ST721), Ti-9S, Ti-6-4, Ti-15-3-3-3, or any other suitable titanium alloy. The titanium alloy may be an α-β type titanium alloy. In embodiments in which the faceplate 155 is a titanium-based material, an aluminum alloy, a titanium alloy, or any combination thereof, the density of the faceplate 155 material should be in the range of 2.6 to 8.7 g/cc. can be done. In some embodiments, the density of the faceplate material is 2.6 g/cc, 2.8 g/cc, 3.0 g/cc, 3.2 g/cc, 3.4 g/cc, 3.6 g/cc, 3.8 g/cc, 4.0 g/cc, 4.2 g/cc, 4.4 g/cc, 4.6 g/cc, 4.8 g/cc, 5.0 g/cc, 5.2 g/cc, 5. 4g/cc, 5.6g/cc, 5.8g/cc, 6.0g/cc, 6.2g/cc, 6.4g/cc, 6.6g/cc, 6.8g/cc, 7.0g/cc cc, 7.2g/cc, 7.4g/cc, 7.6g/cc, 7.8g/cc, 8.0g/cc, 8.2g/cc, 8.4g/cc, 8.6g/cc, or 8.7 g/cc. In embodiments where faceplate 155 is a steel-based material, the density of the faceplate material may range from 7.7 g/cc to 8.1 g/cc.

4) Tip weight material

Tip weight 160 may comprise a material different than that of body 110 , faceplate 155 , and insert 140 or 440 . Tip weight 160 comprises a high density material such as tungsten or any other suitable metal or metal alloy material. The density of the tipping material 160 may range between 1.1 g/cc and k19.6 g/cc. In some embodiments, the tip weight 160 material has a density of 1.1 g/cc, 1.5 g/cc, 2.0 g/cc, 2.5 g/cc, 3.0 g/cc, 3.5 g/cc. , 4.0g/cc, 4.5g/cc, 5.0g/cc, 5.5g/cc, 6.0g/cc, 6.5g/cc, 7.0g/cc, 7.5g/cc, 8 .0g/cc, 8.5g/cc, 9.0g/cc, 9.5g/cc, 10.0g/cc, 10.5g/cc, 11.0g/cc, 11.5g/cc, 12.0g /cc, 12.5g/cc, 13.0g/cc, 13.5g/cc, 14.0g/cc, 14.5g/cc, 15.0g/cc, 15.5g/cc, 15.8g/cc , 16.0g/cc, 16.2g/cc, 16.4g/cc, 16.6g/cc, 16.8g/cc, 17.0g/cc, 17.2g/cc, 17.4g/cc, 17 .6g/cc, 17.8g/cc, 18.0g/cc, 18.2g/cc, 18.4g/cc, 18.6g/cc, 18.8g/cc, 19.0g/cc, 19.2g /cc, 19.4 g/cc, or 19.6 g/cc. The weight of tip weight 160 can range from 0 grams to 18 grams. In some embodiments, tip weight 160 weighs 0 grams (in embodiments without tip weights), 1 gram, 2 grams, 3 grams, 4 grams, 5 grams, 6 grams, 7 grams, 8 grams, It can be 9 grams, 10 grams, 11 grams, 12 grams, 13 grams, 14 grams, 15 grams, 16 grams, 17 grams, or 18 grams. In most embodiments, tip weight 160 ranges from 0 grams to 9 grams.

5) Towweight material

Toe weight 161 may comprise a different material than that of body 110 , faceplate 155 , tip weight 160 and insert 140 or 440 . Tow weight 161 comprises a high density material such as tungsten or any other suitable metal or metal alloy material. The density of the towweight 161 material can range from 14.0 to 19.6 g/cc. In some embodiments, the towweight 161 material has a density of 14.0 g/cc, 14.2 g/cc, 14.4 g/cc, 14.6 g/cc, 14.8 g/cc, 15.0 g/cc , 15.2g/cc, 15.4g/cc, 15.6g/cc, 15.8g/cc, 16.0g/cc, 16.2g/cc, 16.4g/cc, 16.6g/cc, 16 .8g/cc, 17.0g/cc, 17.2g/cc, 17.4g/cc, 17.6g/cc, 17.8g/cc, 18.0g/cc, 18.2g/cc, 18.4g /cc, 18.6 g/cc, 18.8 g/cc, 19.0 g/cc, 19.2 g/cc, 19.4 g/cc, or 19.6 g/cc. The weight of the tow weight 161 can range from 10 grams to 40 grams. In some embodiments, the tow weight 161 weighs 10 grams, 11 grams, 12 grams, 13 grams, 14 grams, 15 grams, 16 grams, 17 grams, 18 grams, 19 grams, 20 grams, 21 grams, 22 grams, 23 grams, 24 grams, 25 grams, 26 grams, 27 grams, 28 grams, 29 grams, 30 grams, 31 grams, 32 grams, 33 grams, 34 grams, 35 grams, 36 grams, 37 grams, 38 grams , 39 grams, 40 grams. In some embodiments, the weight of tow weight 161 can range from 12 grams to 26.5 grams.

6) Toe screw weight material

The toe screw weight (swing weight) can comprise any high density material similar to the tip weight or toe weight high density material. The density of the toe screw material can be similar to the density of the tip weight material. The weight of the toe screw weight can be similar to the weight of the tip weight described above.

II. Golf club head with rear opening

A golf club head 600 is described herein. Similar to golf club head 100, golf club head 600 may be a forgiving, tour-style golf club head as described above. Golf club head 100 may include body 610 having cavity 620 that houses insert 640 . Golf club head 600 includes faceplate 655 , body 610 and insert 640 . Body 610 includes upper portion 608 , lower portion 609 , sole 607 , rear 603 and top rail 606 . Rear 603 may further comprise flexion seams 630 . Flexion seam 630 is the boundary between upper portion 608 and lower portion 609 of golf club head 600 . The faceplate 655 and a portion of the body define the strikeface 611 (striking surface) of the golf club head. Faceplate 655 , sole 607 , rear 603 and top rail 606 surround cavity 620 .

21-32 show a golf club head 600 similar to golf club head 100. FIG. Golf club head 600 includes a body 610 forming a cavity 620, a faceplate 655, a rear opening 680, and a low density insert 640 within the cavity. Body 610 includes upper portion 608 , lower portion 609 , sole 607 , rear 603 and top rail 606 . Rear 603 may further comprise flexion seams 630 . Flexion seam 630 is the boundary between upper portion 608 and lower portion 609 of golf club head 600 . Face plate 655 and a portion of body 610 define strike face 611 (striking surface) of golf club head 600 .

Body 610 is similar to body 110 . Faceplate 655 , sole 607 , and rear 603 form cavity 620 with rear opening 680 in upper portion 608 of golf club head 600 . A rear opening 680 in body 610 partially exposes cavity 620 . After assembly, insert 640 is visible through opening 680 in rear 603 . Body 610 further includes a recess 642 in front 604 of body 610 for receiving faceplate 655 , similar to recess 142 described above for club head 100 .

An insert 640 is housed within cavity 620 . Insert 640 can include non-metallic or polymer-based materials. Insert material may be injected into cavity 620 of golf club head 600 through rear opening 680 to form insert 640 within cavity 620 . In other embodiments, insert 640 may comprise a metallic material similar to insert 140 described above. Faceplate 655 seals cavity 620 at front 604 of golf club head 600 . Faceplate 655 and front 604 of body 610 together define strikeface 611 .

Golf club head 600 is a tour iron club head and has a volume between 1.8 cubic inches and 2.7 cubic inches (30 cubic centimeters (cc)-45 cc). Body 610 of golf club head 600 may be cast or forged from a metallic material.

Insert 640 includes a low density material and fills cavity 620 formed by body 610 of golf club head 600 . Reducing the mass at the center of the golf club head 600 concentrates excess mass around it, allowing the golf club head 600 to increase its moment of inertia value. As mentioned above, golf club head 600 includes lower portion 609 and upper portion 608 . Lower portion 609 has a greater depth than upper portion 608 . The lower portion 609 thereby has more mass concentrated in the surrounding heel 602 , toe 601 and sole 607 . Reducing the mass of body 610 results in a lower CG60, which increases launch angle, reduces spin, and increases ball velocity. As introduced above, there is a need in the art for irons that combine tour irons with relatively high moment of inertia from perimeter weighting and low CG from low mass positioning. In some embodiments, tip weights 660 located within the hosel and/or toe weights 661 located within the toe cavity 614 of body 610 provide additional perimeter weighting. In some embodiments, a toe screw weight 662 (swing weight) located within a toe screw weight cavity 663 (swing weight cavity) of body 610 provides additional perimeter weighting.

Golf club head 600 can be described in terms of the same reference plane and axis as golf club head 100 . Definitions of ground surface 10 , loft surface 20 , center surface 45 , center point 80 , lead edge axis 35 , lead edge surface, x-axis 30 , y-axis 40 , z-axis 50 , and hosel axis 70 are defined as follows: As is the case with golf club head 600 .

A. part of a golf club head

22 and 23, body 610 includes at least upper portion 608, lower portion 609, sole 607, top rail 606, rear 603, front 604, toe 601, heel 602, and hosel 605. , including upper portion 108, lower portion 109, sole 107, top rail 106, rear 103, front 104, toe 101, heel 102, and hosel 605 of golf club head 100, respectively. In some embodiments, faceplate 655 is welded or swaged (swaged) onto the front opening of body 610 .

Body 610 includes flexion seams 630 and a rear profile similar to flexion seams 130 and rear profile of golf club head 100 . The height of the upper and lower portions 608, 609, the depth of the upper and lower portions 608, 609, and the thickness of the rear 603 are determined by the height of the upper and lower portions 108, 109 of the golf club head 100, the upper and the depth of the lower portions 108 , 109 and the thickness of the rear 103 .

Body 610 further comprises an opening wall 682 at the rear of body 610 . Aperture wall 682 defines rear aperture 680 . Rear opening 680 of body 610 is located in upper portion 608 of club head 600 above flex seam 630 . The uniform depth of upper portion 608 in conjunction with the position of rear opening 680 within upper portion 608 allows for a flat surface surrounding opening 680 . On all sides of opening wall 682 of body 610 (rear opening 680), the outer surface of golf club head 600 is planar. This flat surface is necessary to provide a seal around rear opening 680 during injection of insert material into cavity 620 during manufacturing, as further described below.

To identify the size of rear opening 680, a projected area of rear 603 (not including hosel 605 or sole 607) parallel to loft surface 20 can be taken. The projected area of rear 603 can be compared to the projected area enclosed by aperture wall 682 . Aperture wall 682 surrounds between 25% and 50% of the projected area of rear 603 of club head 600 (covered by rear aperture). In some embodiments, the aperture wall 682 is 25%-30%, 25%-35%, 30%-40%, 35%-45%, 40%-50%, or 45%-50% of the rear wall. A percentage of the area can be enclosed. In other embodiments, the aperture walls 682 are 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%, 36%, 37%, A rear area percentage of 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, or 50% can be encompassed.

In some embodiments, insert 640 is visible through rear opening 680 . In some embodiments, between 10% and 60% of the insert is visible through rear opening 680 . In some embodiments, 10%-20%, 15%-25%, 20%-30%, 25%-35%, 30%-40%, 35%-45%, 40%-50% of insert 640 %, 45%-55%, or 50%-60% are visible through the rear opening 680 . In some embodiments, a badge (not shown) is positioned over rear opening 680 . In these embodiments, the badge can cover 10% to 60% of the insert. In some embodiments, the badge is 10%-20%, 15%-25%, 20%-30%, 25%-35%, 30%-40%, 35%-45%, 40% of the insert 640. % to 50%, 45% to 55%, or 50% to 60%.

Rear 603 with opening wall 682 defining rear opening 680 contributes to the low mass of upper portion 608 . Filling rear opening 680 with a material having a density lower than that of the body material results in golf club head 600 having a low CG. Reducing the mass of the upper portion 608 lowers the CG and allows the weight to be distributed around the circumference, improving the forgiveness of the golf club head. Various design parameters can contribute to the low mass of the upper portion. Maintaining a uniform upper portion depth also contributes to the low mass of the upper portion 608 as described above for the golf club head 100 .

Since the material used to form body 610 generally has a higher density than the material of insert 640, replacing the portion of rear body 610 surrounded by aperture wall 682 with the insert material allows upper portion 608 mass can be reduced. Compared to a similar golf club head having a solid rear formed entirely from body material, golf club head 600 includes a lower CG due to rear opening 680 . The projected area percentage of openings 680 and the density of the insert material can reduce the mass of upper portion 608 between 1 gram and 17 grams. In some embodiments, the mass of upper portion 608 is 1-3 grams, 3-5 grams, 5-7 grams, 7-9 grams, 9-11 grams, 11-13 grams, 13 grams to 15 grams, or 15 grams to 17 grams can be reduced. In other embodiments, the mass of upper portion 608 is 1 gram, 2 grams, 3 grams, 4 grams, 5 grams, 6 grams, 7 grams, 8 grams, 9 grams, 10 grams, 11 grams, 12 grams, 13 grams. grams, 14 grams, 15 grams, 16 grams, or 17 grams. This reduction in mass of upper portion 108 of body 610 helps lower CG, improve launch and spin characteristics, and increase ball speed.

Body 610 of golf club head 600 defines cavity 620 . Cavity 620 of body 610 can be configured to receive a low density insert 640 that increases the MOI of golf club head 600 without sacrificing the desired mid feel of the tour iron. The area, volume and contour of cavity 620 are similar to the area, volume and contour of cavity 120 . Adjacent the front opening of cavity 620 , body 610 includes an inner peripheral edge 627 similar to inner peripheral edge 127 of golf club head 100 . Sole 607 , top rail 606 , rear 603 , inner perimeter 627 , and faceplate 655 define cavity 620 . Cavity 620 connects to rear opening 680 of body 610 and is sealed at front 604 of body 610 by faceplate 655 . Cavity 620 is exposed through rear opening 680 in rear 603 of body 610 .

B. golf club head insert

Insert 640 is configured to fit within cavity 620 of body 610 to increase the MOI and retain the solidity of golf club head 600 . The volume of insert 640 may be similar to the volume of insert 140 of golf club head 100 . In some embodiments, the insert 640 extends beyond the cavity 620 into the rear opening 680 such that the volume of the insert 640 can be greater than the volume of the cavity 620 .

The insert 640 completely fills or partially fills the cavity 620 as described above for the golf club head 100 . The insert 640 can fill the volume percentage of the cavity 620 as described for the golf club head 100 . In some embodiments, the insert 640 can fill 100% of the cavity 620 and extend into the rear opening 680, as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 27, insert 640 can fill 60% of cavity 620 . As shown in FIG. 28, insert 640 may fill 70% of cavity 620 and extend partially into rear opening 680 . As shown in FIG. 29, insert 640 may fill 80% of cavity 620 and extend partially into rear opening 680 . As shown in FIG. 30, insert 640 can fill 90% of cavity 620 and extend partially into rear opening 680 . In some embodiments (not shown), insert 640 can only fill cavity 620 and not rear opening 680 . In some embodiments, insert 640 can include a metallic material and can only fill cavity 620 . In this exemplary embodiment (not shown), an aperture wall 682 of body 610 may taper to merge into insert 640 to provide a less defined boundary for rear aperture 680 .

In some embodiments, insert 640 is formed prior to being inserted into golf club head 600, as described below. In other embodiments, insert 640 is formed within cavity 620 of body 610 . In these embodiments, the aperture wall 682 forming the rear aperture 680 can serve as a port for the insert 640 to be injected into the cavity 620, as described below.

C. body cavity

A front face of body cavity 620 may be sealed by a faceplate 655 . Face plate 655 and strike face 611 may be similar to face plate 155 and strike face 611 of golf club head 100 . However, in some embodiments, strike face 611 can be integrally formed with body 610 . Strike face 611 includes a thickness 612 similar to thickness 112 of strike face 111 of golf club head 100 .

Body 610 is partially or completely filled by an insert 640 secured within golf club head 600 by faceplate 655 . In some embodiments, cavity 620 further houses tape layer 150 and/or adhesive similar to tape layer 150 and/or adhesive of golf club head 100 .

Cavity 620 can vary in dimension in the toe-heel direction. In some embodiments, rear 603 of golf club head 600 includes a thickened region, as shown in FIG. This thicker area of body 610 can provide additional weight to certain areas of golf club head 600 . Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 31 and 32, weld beads 648, projections, depressions, or seams (hereinafter collectively referred to as “weld beads”) can interrupt cavity 620. As shown in FIGS. Weld beads may be placed along the perimeter of faceplate 655 . In some embodiments, weld bead 648 is created during the manufacturing step of welding faceplate 655 to body 610 to form strikeface 611 . As illustrated in FIGS. 31 and 32, weld bead 648 may extend rearwardly from the back surface of strike face 611 . In some embodiments, weld bead 648 not only structurally couples strike plate 655 to body 610 , but also helps retain insert 640 within cavity 620 . Weld bead 648 may be lock-shaped. Weld bead 648 may separate a peripheral region of cavity 620 having a front-to-rear depth that is greater than the front-to-rear depth of the cavity at the weld bead. This change in the depth of cavity 620 caused by weld bead 648 causes the insert to have a thicker or deeper (front to rear) dimension adjacent top rail 606 and sole 607 than at weld bead 648. and prevents the insert from sliding, moving, or being removed in the top-to-sole direction.

F. Other perimeter weighting of the golf club head (tip weight, toe weight)

In some embodiments, golf club head 600 further comprises a shaft tip weight 660 similar to shaft tip weight 160 of golf club head 100 . In some embodiments, body 610 further comprises a toe cavity 614 that houses toe weight 661 , similar to toe cavity 114 and toe weight 161 of golf club head 100 .

As shown in Figures 24 and 25, the golf club head 600 may further comprise a toe screw cavity 663 and a toe screw weight 662 for adjusting the swing weight. Toe screw weight 662 can include a weight of 2 grams to 15 grams, as described for the additional toe screw weights of golf club head 100 . The toe screw weights 662 can be removed and replaced with different screw weights 662 having different weight values to customize the golf club head 600 to the golfer's swing.

As shown in FIGS. 33 and 34 , toe screw weight 662 of golf club head 600 may include head 690 and shaft 695 . Head 690 may include an outer surface 691 , an inner surface 692 and an outer rim 694 . A shaft 695 protrudes outward from the head inner surface 692 . Head inner surface 692 further includes slot 396 extending radially outwardly from shaft 695 . Slots 693 may allow air to escape from body cavity 620 during manufacturing. The slots 693 can be oriented generally perpendicular to the outer rim 694 of the tow screw weight head 690 (or perpendicular to a plane tangent to the outer rim 694 of the tow screw weight head 690). The slots 693 are approximately 180 degrees, 120 degrees, 90 degrees, 72 degrees, 60 degrees, 51 degrees, 45 degrees, between 10 degrees and 45 degrees, between 45 degrees and 90 degrees, between 90 degrees and 180 degrees, They may be radially spaced from each other by an angle between 180 and 270 degrees, or between 270 and 360 degrees.

Toe screw weight 662 can include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or more slots 693 . Slots 693 can each have a depth. The depth of each slot 693 may range from 0.002 inches to 0.010 inches. In some embodiments, each slot 693 has a depth of 0.002 inch to 0.004 inch, 0.003 inch to 0.005 inch, 0.004 inch to 0.006 inch, 0.005 inch to It can range from 0.007 inch, 0.006 inch to 0.008 inch, 0.007 inch to 0.009 inch, or 0.008 inch to 0.010 inch. The depth of slot 693 can affect the speed at which air can flow through slot 693 . A slot 693 cut or formed in the head of toe screw weight 662 prevents toe screw weight 662 from sealing toe screw cavity 663 when toe screw weight 662 is received therein. Slot 693 allows air to move into and out of body cavity 620 even when toe screw weight 662 is installed in toe screw cavity 663 . Slots 693 may allow air to escape from body cavity 620 during injection of insert material 140 into body cavity 620 during manufacturing. In embodiments with low viscosity inserts, the depth of slot 693 can also prevent insert material from flowing or escaping through slot 693 during manufacturing.

Toe screw weight shaft 695 can include a neck 696 , a threaded portion 698 and an unthreaded portion 699 . Neck 696 may be located between threaded portion 698 of shaft 695 and toe screw weight head 690 . Neck 696 can have a diameter 697 that is smaller than the diameter of the corresponding area of toe screw cavity 663 . Neck diameter 697 may be 0.005 inch to 0.015 inch smaller than the diameter of the corresponding area of toe screw cavity 663 . In some embodiments, the corresponding area of the tow screw cavity 663 is 0.005 inch to 0.008 inch, 0.007 inch to 0.010 inch, 0.009 inch to 0.008 inch greater than the neck diameter 697 . 012 inches, or 0.011 inches to 0.015 inches smaller diameter.

Threaded portion 698 of shaft 695 may be positioned adjacent neck 696 of shaft 695 near tow screw weight head 690 . The threaded portion 698 can include 1-10 threads. In some embodiments, threaded portion 698 can be between 1/4 and 1/2 the length of shaft 695 . In other embodiments, threaded portion 698 is approximately one-third the length of shaft 695 . The purpose of threaded shaft portion 698 is to engage corresponding threads on toe screw cavity 663 to retain toe screw weight 662 on golf club head body 610 . Additionally, the threaded shaft portion 698 may be offset from the threads of the tow screw cavity by a tolerance or gap. In some embodiments, the tolerance gap can provide sufficient space for air to pass between the toe screw weight 662 and the toe screw cavity 663 during the injection molding process that forms the insert. Additionally, a tolerance gap between the threads of the tow screw weight and the threads of the tow screw cavity can prevent insert material from flowing out of the cavity 620 during the manufacturing process. Despite the insert material contacting the threaded portion 698 of the tow screw weight, the tow screw weight may remain removable due to the different material properties of the metal tow screw weight 662 and the insert 640 .

Beyond threaded portion 698 , a remaining unthreaded portion 699 of shaft 695 can extend at least partially into toe screw cavity 663 . The unthreaded shaft portion 699 can include a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of a corresponding portion of the tow screw cavity 663 configured to receive the unthreaded shaft portion 699 . In some embodiments, unthreaded shaft portion 699 can extend at least partially into body cavity 620 of club head 600 . The purpose of the unthreaded shaft portion 699 is to add weight to the tow screw weight 662 .

The tow screw weight shafts are constructed with tolerances that allow air to pass between the tow screw weights 662 and the corresponding tow screw cavities 663 . In embodiments of the golf club head 600 having injection molded inserts, the threaded portion of the shaft of the toe screw weight 662 prevents the insert material from flowing out of the body cavity during the manufacturing process, as described below. . The slots are also sized to prevent the outflow of insert material should it pass through the threaded portion of tow screw weight 662 .

The slot, shaft diameter, and shaft threading of the tow screw weight 662 described above allow air to be vented through the tow screw weight 662 so that the insert 620 is flush with the mold interface surface, including within the vent. allow it to be injection molded without leaving excess, undesirable material between metal parts). Exhausting air through toe screw weight 662, as described below, can eliminate or reduce the need for post-injection molding processing to clean the flash.

Although the perimeter weighting described above contributes to the perimeter weighting and high MOI of the club head, the perimeter body also plays an important role in the perimeter weighting. Molding the perimeter portion of the body to include more material can change the weight and increase the MOI.

D. CLUB HEAD BODY MATERIAL WITH REAR OPENING

The materials used to form the components of golf club head 600 may be similar to the materials used to form the components of golf club head 100, as described above. In particular, body 610 can include the same body material as body 110 . Insert 640 can include the same insert material as insert 140 . Faceplate 655 can include the same faceplate material as faceplate 155 . Toe weight 661 , tip weight 660 , and toe screw weight 662 may include the same toe weight 161 , tip weight 160 , and toe screw weight material as golf club head 100 .

III. Golf club head with rear and front openings

Now, the golf club head 300 will be described. Similar to golf club heads 100 and 600, golf club head 300 can be a forgiving, tour-style golf club head as described above. 35-38, a golf club head 300 can include a body 310 having a cavity 320 that houses an insert 340. As shown in FIG. Unlike golf club heads 100 and 600, golf club head 300 does not include a metal faceplate. The golf club head includes body 310 and insert 340 . Insert 340 is exposed at the front of golf club head 300 and serves as strike face (also called “striking face” or “hitting face”) 311 for impacting a golf ball. The strike face 311 formed by the insert can be provided with grooves. Strike face 311 may be flush with front 304 of body 310 . The insert material strike face 311 can be configured to impact a golf ball. In some embodiments, insert material strike face 311 can be formed from a polymer or composite material.

Body 310 includes upper portion 308 , lower portion 309 , sole 307 , rear 303 , front 304 , toe region 301 , heel region 302 and top rail 306 . Rear 303 may further comprise a flexion seam 330 . Flex seam 330 is the boundary between upper portion 308 and lower portion 309 of golf club head 300 . Sole 307 , rear 303 and top rail 306 surround cavity 320 .

35-52 show several variations of golf club head 300 that may be similar to golf club heads 100 and 600. FIG. Golf club head 300 includes body 310 that defines cavity 320 . Body 310 defines a rear opening 380 in upper portion 308 . Rear opening 380 at least partially exposes cavity 320 . Body 310 further defines a front opening or recess 342 . The front opening at least partially exposes (and/or connects to) cavity 320 . The front opening can be sized to cover most of the strike face 311 . After assembly, insert 340 is visible through rear opening 380 and front opening 342 .

An insert 340 is housed within cavity 320 . Insert 340 can include non-metallic or polymer-based materials. Insert 340 can include a low density material. The insert material may be injected into cavity 320 of golf club head 300 through rear opening 380 or front opening 342 to form insert 340 within cavity 320 . In other embodiments, insert 340 comprises a metallic material similar to insert 140 described above. Insert 340 extends completely from front 304 to rear 303 of golf club head 300 .

In some embodiments, the golf club head 300 can be a tour or game improvement iron club head and has a volume of 1.8 cubic inches to 2.7 cubic inches (30 cubic centimeters (cc) to 45 cc). be able to. Body 310 of golf club head 300 may be cast or forged from a metallic material. In some embodiments, insert 340 can be injection molded into cavity 320 of body 310 . Insert 340 can be formed from a polymer or composite material. In some embodiments, golf club head 300 may be a game improvement iron having a volume greater than that of a tour iron. In some embodiments, the golf club head 300 is a game improving iron having a blade length greater than 2.7 inches and/or between 2.7 inches and 2.9 inches, between 2.8 inches and 2.9 inches. can be

Insert 340 includes a low density material similar to the inserts of club heads 100 and 600 . However, the insert 340 of the golf club head 300 has a higher moment of inertia value for the golf club head than the inserts of the golf club heads 100 and 600 because the insert 340 of the golf club head 300 can replace a denser body material. It can be increased further. In other words, body 310 of golf club head 300 includes less material than the bodies of golf club heads 100 and 600 . Specifically, golf club head 300 lacks a metal faceplate. Instead, low density insert 340 of golf club head 300 forms strike face 311 of golf club head 300 . Because a high density faceplate is not used in golf club head 300, the mass of body 310 can be significantly reduced. The saved weight can be redistributed as built-in optional weights or removable weights. By placing the saved weight around the club head 300, the moment of inertia can be increased. The CG can also be lowered in a manner similar to that described for golf club heads 100 and 600. FIG.

In some embodiments, tip weights 360 positioned within the hosel and/or toe weights 361 positioned within the toe cavity 314 of body 310 provide additional perimeter weighting. The tip and/or weight can include a density greater than the body material density and greater than the insert density. Body materials can include, but are not limited to, steel-based materials or steel alloys. The body material can include a density of 7.70-8.10 g/cc. The insert material can be glass-filled elastomer, stainless steel-filled elastomer, tungsten-filled elastomer, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), or any other elastomer matrix composite, Kevlar® (aramid) fiber It can include, but is not limited to, reinforcing polymers, carbon fiber reinforced polymers, or any suitable polymer matrix composite (in other words, any combination of suitable resins and suitable reinforcing fibers). In some embodiments, the insert material can include densities between 0.8 g/cc and 1.4 g/c. In other embodiments, the insert material can include densities between 1.0 g/cc and 12.0 g/cc. The metal body material and polymeric or composite insert material can be similar to those described above for the body and insert of golf club head 600 .

In some embodiments, a toe screw weight 362 (swing weight) located within a toe screw weight cavity 363 (swing weight cavity) of body 310 provides additional perimeter weighting. In some embodiments, the internal contour of cavity 320 is altered to leave body material in locations that require additional weight. In some embodiments, rear 303 of club head 300 includes one or more weight ports for receiving removable weights. In some embodiments, the rear 303 of the club head can be configured to receive tungsten weights at the low toe region 301 or low heel region 302 . These weights can be co-molded, swaged, or welded to the body.

Golf club head 300 can be described in terms of the same reference plane and axis as golf club head 100 . Definitions of ground surface 10 , loft surface 20 , center surface 45 , center point 80 , lead edge axis 35 , lead edge surface, x-axis 30 , y-axis 40 , z-axis 50 , and hosel axis 70 are defined as follows: As with the case, it is no different with the golf club head 300 .

E. part of a golf club head

28-31, body 310 includes at least upper portion 308, lower portion 309, sole 307, top rail 306, rear 303, front 304, toe 301, heel 302, and hosel 305. , are similar to upper portion 108, lower portion 109, sole 107, top rail 106, rear 103, front 104, toe 101, heel 102, and hosel 105 of golf club head 100, respectively.

Body 310 includes a flexion seam 330 and rear profile similar to flexion seam 130 and rear profile of golf club head 100 . The height of the upper and lower portions 308, 309, the depth of the upper and lower portions 308, 309, and the thickness of the rear 303 are the heights of the upper and lower portions 108, 109 of the golf club head 100, the upper and the depth of the lower portions 108 , 109 and the thickness of the rear 103 .

Body 310 further includes an aperture wall 382 similar to aperture wall 682 of golf club head 600 . Aperture wall 382 defines rear aperture 380 . The position, size, and dimensions (including projected area) of rear opening 380 can be similar to rear opening 380 of golf club head 300 . The CG position and weight of golf club head 300 can be affected in a manner similar to that described for golf club heads 100 and 600 . However, the golf club head 300 may have more drastic changes in CG position compared to similar clubs lacking low density inserts. This is because the golf club head 300 has any additional weight due to the removal of the metal strike plate. Replacing a metal strike plate as part of the insert 340 frees up a large amount of weight that can be redistributed to the peripheral edge of the golf club head 300, lowering the CG and/or increasing the moment of inertia.

Golf club head 300 has a metal body including a metal faceplate (corresponding to front opening 642 of golf club head 300) and a metal upper partial rear wall (covering an area corresponding to rear opening 380 of golf club head 300). Similar golf club heads can be compared. By replacing metal body material that would otherwise occupy rear rear opening 380 and front opening 342, insert 340 can reduce the mass of upper portion 308 from 1 gram to 70 grams. In some embodiments, the mass of the upper portion 308 is 1-10 grams, 10-20 grams, 20-30 grams, 30-40 grams, 40-50 grams, 50-60 grams, Or it can be reduced by 60 grams to 70 grams. This reduction in mass of upper portion 308 of body 310 helps lower CG, improve launch and spin characteristics, and increase ball speed.

As shown in FIG. 36, body 310 of golf club head 300 defines cavity 320 . Cavity 320 of body 310 may be configured to receive low density insert 340 . The area, volume and contour of cavity 320 are similar to the area, volume and contour of cavity 120 . Sole 307 , top rail 306 and rear 303 define cavity 320 . Cavity 320 is exposed through front opening 342 and rear opening 380 of body 310 .

F. golf club head insert

Insert 340 is configured to fit within cavity 320 of body 310 to increase the MOI and retain the solidity of golf club head 300 . The volume of insert 340 can be greater than that of insert 140 of golf club head 100 because insert 340 forms a strike face similar to the interior center insert. In some embodiments, insert 340 completely fills cavity 320 with the same volume as cavity 320 . As shown in FIG. 37, insert 640 may be formed within cavity 320 of body 310 . Rear opening 380 can serve as a port for injection of insert 340 into cavity 320, as described below.

G. body cavity

As shown in FIGS. 35 and 30, the body 310 of the golf club head 300 can define the edges or walls of the cavity 320. As shown in FIGS. As shown in FIGS. 39-45, in some embodiments, body 310 includes one or more locking features 345, locking mechanisms, arches, tubes, or other mechanisms that interrupt the cavity space (hereinafter collectively (referred to as "fixed features"). A fixation feature 345 can be located internally. Fixed features 345 are not externally visible in the completed golf club head 300 . Locking feature 345 may geometrically lock insert 340 within cavity 320 . The material of the insert 340 can flow around one or more securing features 345 and then harden therearound so that the insert 340 is permanently secured within the cavity 320 . Fixed features 345 may also add weight to certain areas of golf club head 300 .

Body 310 can include between one to six fixation features 345 . In some embodiments, body 310 includes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 fixation features 345 . One or more securing features 354 may extend from one or more of rear 303 , sole 307 , toe region 301 , or heel region 302 . In some embodiments, one or more securing features 345 extend between rear 303 and sole 307 . In some embodiments, one of securing features 345 comprises first and second ends that both connect to the remainder of body 310 at toe region 301 . In some embodiments, one of securing features 345 comprises first and second ends that both connect to the remainder of body 310 at heel region 302 . In some embodiments, one of securing features 345 comprises first and second ends that both connect to the rest of body 310 at sole 307 .

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 39-41, golf club head 300 includes two locking features 345 extending from rear 303 to sole 307 . In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 42-44, one securing feature 345 extends from the toe end of sole 307 to the heel end of sole 307 . In the embodiment shown in FIG. 45, a single fixation feature 345 (or arch) has first and second ends that both connect to body 310 at heel region 302 . As shown in FIG. 45, one or more fixation features 345 define channels 346, openings, through-holes, or tubes (hereinafter collectively referred to as "channels") that can be filled with an insert material. can be done. Channel 346 may have a minimum diameter of 0.065 inches. In some embodiments, channel 346 has a diameter of 0.065 to 0.075 inches, 0.070 to 0.080 inches, 0.075 to 0.085 inches, or 0.080 to 0.090 inches. can have In some embodiments, channel 346 can have a diameter greater than 0.080 inches or greater than 0.090 inches. The diameter of the channel 346 under and/or surrounded by the locking feature allows the insert material to flow when injecting it into the cavity being manufactured.

The one or more fixation features 345 can have a cross-sectional shape that is circular, oval, elliptical, or any other shape configured to facilitate flow of insert material around the fixation features. . Figure 44 illustrates a fixation feature having a circular cross-section. In some embodiments, cavity 620 further comprises undercuts in top rail 306 and/or sole 307 . Undercut 347 can help mechanically secure insert 640 within cavity 320 . A golf club having a top rail 306 with an undercut 347 and a sole 307 is shown in the embodiment of FIGS.

51 and 52, in some variations of golf club head 300, rear opening 380 is absent. Instead, body 310 covers the entire rear 303 of club head 300 . In these embodiments, cavity 320 is exposed only at front 304 of club head 300 . These embodiments can include one or more undercuts 347 and/or one or more locking features 345 to retain the insert 340 within the cavity 320 .

H. Other perimeter weighting of the golf club head (tip weight, toe weight)

Golf club head 300 may include toe weight 361, which is similar to toe weights 161 and 661, tip weight 360, which is similar to tip weights 160 and 660, and toe screw weight 362, which is similar to toe screw weight 662. . As shown in FIGS. 48-50, the golf club head 300 may additionally or alternatively include a plurality of weights 365 positioned at the rear of the club head 300. As shown in FIGS. In some embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 48, club head 300 may include toe weight 361 and heel weight 364 . In some embodiments, the toe weight 361 and heel weight 364 may be swaged, welded, co-forged, or otherwise secured within the receiving cavity of the club head 300 . In other embodiments, toe weight 361 and heel weight 364 are secured to club head 300 via a fastening mechanism. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 49 , toe weight 361 and heel weight 364 are threaded into receiving holes in club head 300 . In some embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 50, multiple weights 365 are secured to or formed on the rear 303 of the club head 300 .

IV. Golf club head characteristics
A. golf club head measurement

The golf club head 100, 300, 600 can be a tour iron. The golf club heads 100, 300, 600 described herein may be tour iron heads including blade length, hosel-X length, offset distance, and tour iron upper portion depth characteristics. The features that identify the golf club head 100 as a tour iron will now be described. Golf club heads 300 and 600 may have tour iron properties similar to golf club head 100 .

As shown in FIG. 2, golf club head 100 has blade length 173 . Blade length 173 is measured as the maximum distance from the edge of strike face 111 in heel region 102 to the edge of club head 100 in toe region 101 . A typical tour iron blade length may be less than 2.8 inches. The blade length of game improving irons is generally greater than 2.8 inches. The blade length 173 of golf club head 100 is less than 2.8 inches, which is characteristic of tour irons. In some embodiments, the blade length 173 of the golf club head 100 is 2.2 inches to 2.8 inches, 2.2 inches to 2.4 inches, 2.4 inches to 2.6 inches, or 2 inches to 2.6 inches. It can be from .6 inches to 2.8 inches.

Hosel-X length 174 is measured from centerplane 45 to the intersection of hosel axis 70 and lead edge axis 35, as shown in FIG. The hosel-X length of tour irons is generally less than 1.5 inches and the hosel-X length of game improvement irons is generally greater than 1.5 inches. The hosel-X length of golf club head 100 is less than 1.5 inches, which is characteristic of tour irons. In some embodiments, the hosel-X length 174 can be 1.30 inches to 1.50 inches, 1.30 inches to 1.40 inches, or 1.40 inches to 1.50 inches. .

As illustrated in FIG. 4 , offset distance 173 is measured from the front edge of hosel 105 to the forward-most point of golf club head 100 . Typically, the forward-most point is located at the bottom of strikeface 111 and adjacent sole 107 . Offset distance 172 may vary for golf club heads within the same set due to different loft angles. Therefore, to compare a set of irons, the offset distances 173 of all golf clubs in the set are averaged. The average offset for tour iron sets is generally less than 0.140 inches. The average offset for game improvement iron sets is generally greater than 0.140 inches. A set of golf clubs including a golf club head similar to club head 100 has an average offset of less than 0.140 inches. The offset distance 172 for a single golf club head 100 can be between 0.100 inches and 0.160 inches. In some embodiments, the offset distance is 0.100 inches and the offset distance 172 is 0.100 inches to 0.110 inches, 0.110 inches to 0.120 inches, 0.120 inches to 0.130 inches. , 0.130 inch to 0.140 inch, 0.140 inch to 0.150 inch, or 0.150 inch to 0.160 inch.

Upper portion depth 116 is measured from front 104 to rear 103, adjacent top rail 106 and perpendicular to strike face 111, as shown in FIG. Tour irons generally have an average upper portion depth of less than 0.290 inches. The average upper section depth of game improved irons is generally greater than 0.290 inches. The average upper portion depth of a set of golf clubs including golf club heads similar to golf club head 100 is less than 0.290 inches, as is characteristic of sets of tour irons.

A similar parameter between game improvement and tour irons is golf club head height. As shown in FIG. 2 , each golf club head 100 may have a maximum height 175 measured along the loft plane 20 from the lead edge axis 35 to the highest point on the top rail 106 . Golf club head 600 may have a similar height to golf club head 100 . Maximum height 175 can be between 2.0 inches and 2.5 inches. In some embodiments, maximum height 175 is between 2.0 inches and 2.1 inches, between 2.1 inches and 2.2 inches, between 2.2 inches and 2.3 inches, between 2.3 inches and 2.3 inches. 4 inches, and 2.4 inches to 2.5 inches.

Ｂ．ゴルフクラブヘッドのＣＧとＭＯＩ Table I below compares blade length, hosel X, average offset, average upper portion depth, and maximum height of the tour irons to the game improved irons.

B. CG and MOI of golf club head

In order to accurately understand the perimeter weighting benefits of the golf club head 100, 300, 600, both the MOI and CG characteristics of the golf club head 100, 300, 600 and the tour size of the golf club head 100, 300, 600 are considered. must be considered. Game-improved irons are known for their high MOI values, but lack other characteristics unique to tour irons. The golf clubs described herein combine the advantages of game improving irons with tour iron styles.

In some embodiments, the CG60 of the golf club head 100, 300, 600 has been shifted downward and rearward compared to flat back tour irons. The CG 60 position of the golf club head 100, 300, 600 can also be measured from the lead edge surface.

The CG 60 of the golf club head 100, 600 may be located between 0.380 inches and 0.670 inches above the lead edge surface. In some embodiments, the golf club head 100, 600 is 0.400 inch to 0.650 inch, 0.380 inch to 0.400 inch, 0.400 inch to 0.420 inch above the lead edge surface. Inch, 0.420" - 0.440", 0.440" - 0.460", 0.460" - 0.480", 0.480" - 0.500", 0.500" - 0.520 Inch, 0.520" - 0.540", 0.540" - 0.560", 0.560" - 0.580", 0.580" - 0.600", 0.600" - 0.620 inches, 0.620 inches to 0.640 inches, 0.640 inches to 0.660 inches, 0.660 inches to 0.670 inches. In other embodiments, CG60 is 0.380 inch, 0.390 inch, 0.400 inch, 0.410 inch, 0.420 inch, 0.430 inch, 0.440 inch, 0.450 inch, 0 .460", 0.470", 0.480", 0.490", 0.500", 0.510", 0.520", 0.530", 0.540", 0.550", 0 .560", 0.570", 0.580", 0.590", 0.600", 0.610", 0.620", 0.630", 0.640", 0.650", 0 It can be located above the lead edge surface by 0.660 inches, or 0.670 inches.

As noted above, the golf club heads 100, 300, and 600 described herein can include lightweight inserts 140, 440, 240, 270, and/or 640 in the center of the golf club head. The saved weight can be added around the golf club head 100, 300, and 600 without significantly changing the overall weight of the golf club head 100, 300, and 600, but at the expense of shifting the CG 60 and raising the MOI. to enable. This perimeter weighting may be done by toe weights, tip weights, or body material added to the perimeter. The compact nature of golf club heads 100, 300, and 600 causes material properties to play a greater role in MOI improvement than structural dimensions. The MOI around the CG 60 and around the x-axis 30, Ixx, can range from 70 to 140 grams squared. The MOI around the CG 60 and around the y-axis 40, Iyy, can range from 310 to 500 grams squared. These MOI values are applicable to golf club heads 100 , 300 and 600 . These MOI values are further applicable to any embodiment having inserts 140, 640, multi-material inserts 440, or lightened inserts 240 or 270.

V. Method

As shown in FIG. 54, a method 500 of manufacturing golf club head 100 is described herein. The method includes the steps of preparing each component 510 , placing an insert in body 520 , swaging the faceplate onto body 530 , and the steps between the faceplate and body 540 . It involves laser welding the borders and cleaning the final product by grinding and polishing. In some embodiments of method 500 , method 500 can consist of steps 510 , 520 , 530 , and 550 .

Step 510 may include providing at least body 110 , insert 140 or multi-material insert 440 , and faceplate 155 as components of golf club head 100 . In some embodiments, preparing body 110 includes one or more of forging, casting, forming by additive manufacturing, machining, or any other suitable method for forming body 110. can consist of Step 510 can include forming body 110 as a unitary piece.

In some embodiments, preparing insert 140 includes one or more of forging, casting, forming by additive manufacturing, machining, or any other suitable method for forming body 140. can consist of In some embodiments, a portion of insert 140 or multi-material insert 440 is molded by pouring resin into the fiber reinforced structure to form an elastomeric matrix composite. The insert 140 can be formed as a single piece with uniform density or as multiple pieces with different densities. Since some embodiments have a multi-material insert 440, the insert 440 can be formed in a single unit or can be placed in the cavity 120 in two separate parts.

In some embodiments, preparing multi-material insert 440 includes (1) preparing first portion 450 of insert 440, (2) providing second portion 460 of insert 440, and (3) joining the first and second portions 450, 460 of the insert 440; Preparing the first portion 450 of the insert 440 can include molding the first portion 440 . Preparing the second portion 460 of the insert 440 can include casting, forging, stamping, die casting, or other means of preparing the second portion 460 . In some embodiments, (1) preparing the second portion 460 and (2) joining the first portion 450 and the second portion 460 are performed such that the first portion 450 is molded and Combined when joined to second portion 460 . In some embodiments, insert 440 may be ground or polished prior to insertion into cavity 120 of golf club head 100 .

In some embodiments, forming faceplate 155 may comprise forging, casting, machining, forming by additive manufacturing, or other methods of forming faceplate 155 . In some embodiments, forming faceplate 155 may include machining, casting, or forging a variable thickness geometry in faceplate 155 .

In some embodiments, step 510 of method 500 can further include providing toe weights, tip weights, and/or toe screw weights. In these embodiments, step 510 further includes welding tow weight 161 to toe cavity 114 of body 110 . In other embodiments, the tow weight 161 may be swaged, glued, or otherwise secured onto the body 610 . In embodiments of golf club head 100 that further include a toe screw weight, the toe screw weight may be screwed into the golf club head at steps 510, 520, 530, or 550. FIG.

A step 520 of method 500 includes placing insert 140 within cavity 120 of body 110 . Insert 140 is inserted through the front opening of cavity 120 at front 104 of body 110 . In some embodiments, this step 520 includes applying an adhesive, such as epoxy, to cavity 120 of body 110 and insert 140 to secure insert 140 within body 110 . In some embodiments, this step 520 includes applying one or more tape layers, such as tape layer 150, to cavity 120 prior to placing insert 140 within the cavity. One or more tape layers, such as tape layer 150 , can form a strong and durable connection between insert 140 and cavity 120 of body 110 . Additionally, the use of tape can reduce the likelihood of rattling and other undesirable quality issues. In some embodiments, various other methods of securing insert 140 to body 110 are combined for maximum security. Not all embodiments of method 500 require that insert 140 be glued or secured within cavity 120 .

A step 530 of method 500 includes securing faceplate 155 onto body 110 . Faceplate 155 is positioned within recess 142 . By placing faceplate 155 within recess 142 , faceplate 155 is positioned to cover insert 140 and cavity 120 of body 110 . Step 530 may further include swaging faceplate 155 onto body 110 such that faceplate 155 is recessed into recess 142 on front 104 of body 110 . In this manner, insert 140 is retained within golf club head 100 and is completely isolated from the outside of golf club head 100 . In other embodiments, faceplate 155 is glued, press-fitted, or otherwise secured to the body.

Some golf club heads are manufactured by methods that include co-forging (also called integral forging) and joining of individual cast parts at high temperature and high applied pressure. These methods apply high temperatures that affect multiple components of the golf club head, including any inserts. For example, the co-forging process occurs at temperatures of 700-1000°C. The melting point of some aluminum alloys drops to 650-680°C. Thus, for aluminum inserts, co-forging compromises the integrity of the aluminum material. The inserts 140, 440, body 110, and faceplate 155 are not co-forged together because co-forging can result in high temperatures that can damage the inserts 140, 440.

Additionally, TIG welding the faceplate to the golf club head also imparts high temperatures to the golf club head, which can damage the insert. The possible materials for the low density center of iron-type golf club heads are severely limited due to conventional manufacturing processes. Golf club head 100 can be manufactured with a wide variety of insert materials because the manufacturing process does not subject the final product to high temperatures. Additionally, some insert materials described herein, such as thermoplastic composites, cannot simply be co-forged with the metal body material. The manufacturing method 500 described herein allows the inserts 140 , 440 to be formed from any suitable material without requiring the material to be co-forged with the body 110 .

Steps 530 and 540 , described below, both employ low thermal methods to secure the faceplate 155 and encapsulate the insert 140 within the cavity 120 . Swaging, laser welding, and other cryogenic methods of securing faceplate 155 allow insert 140 or 440 to include a wide variety of materials to fine-tune sound, feel, and weight. The low temperature method of steps 530 and 540 further allows for design flexibility, such as using adhesives and/or tape around cavity 120 to reduce unwanted rattle and vibration.

Step 540 includes laser welding the interface between faceplate 155 and body 110 . The process of step 540 is also called a surface fusion process. After faceplate 155 is swaged onto body 110 in step 530, the overlap region or boundary between faceplate 155 and body 110 is laser welded. This laser welding process matches the metallic materials of faceplate 155 and body 110 without creating a deep heat affected zone (hereinafter "HAZ"). Laser welding the interface eliminates cracks or seams between faceplate 155 and body 110 . In some embodiments, golf club head 100 is finished with a coating at step 550, as described below. Any minute cracks or seams at the boundary can allow the coating to penetrate the seams and cause quality problems. Laser welding the boundary at step 540 eliminates this manufacturing problem.

The above-described step 540 reduces material integrity within the cavity 120 because the HAZ depth is between 0.03 inches and 0.08 inches, which can be less than the thickness 112 of the faceplate 155 . can be implemented without compromising In some embodiments, the HAZ depth is less than 0.08 inch, less than 0.07 inch, less than 0.06 inch, less than 0.05 inch, less than 0.04 inch, or less than 0.03 inch be able to. In some embodiments, the HAZ depth can be 0.03 inches, 0.04 inches, 0.05 inches, 0.06 inches, 0.07 inches, or 0.08 inches. Laser welding heats the insert and other cavity fillers, such as tape layers, to a temperature below the melting temperature of the insert material. The heat applied to golf club head 100 during step 540 does not damage any of the material sealed within cavity 120 .

At step 550 of method 550, golf club head 100 is cleaned by grinding and polishing. Grinding is used to create a smooth surface on strike face 111 of golf club head 100 . Additionally, this step 550 may include polishing the surface of the golf club head 100 after grinding. In some embodiments, grooves are formed in strike face 111 of faceplate 155 and then strike face 111 is polished. None of the steps in manufacturing method 500 involve co-forging with different materials.

As shown in FIG. 32, similar to golf club head 600, a method 700 of manufacturing a golf club head includes providing at least a body 610, an insert material, and a faceplate 655; Including swaging, injecting the insert material into the cavity 620 of the body 610, and polishing and cleaning the golf club head 600. FIG.

At step 710, body 610 may be formed by forging, casting, or additive manufacturing. Faceplate 655 may be formed by forging, casting, or additive manufacturing. In a variation of manufacturing process 700 , strike face 655 is integrally formed as part of body 610 , rather than being formed separately as faceplate 655 and welded or swaged onto the front opening of body 610 . formed In some embodiments, step 710 of method 700 further includes providing toe weight 661 , tip weight 650 and/or toe screw weight 662 . In these embodiments, step 710 further includes welding toe weight 661 to toe cavity 614 of body 610 . In other embodiments, the tow weight 661 may be swaged, glued, or otherwise secured onto the body 610 . In embodiments of golf club head 600 further comprising toe screw weight 662 , toe screw weight 662 may be screwed into the golf club head at steps 710 , 720 , 730 , or 750 .

Additionally, at step 710 of method 700, an opening wall 782 defining rear opening 680 may be formed in body 610 or may be cut into rear portion 603 of body 610 after body 610 is formed. Step 710 can further include sanding or finishing the aperture wall 782 of the rear 603 .

Step 720 includes placing faceplate 655 within body recess 642 . Faceplate 655 is welded, swaged, or otherwise secured to body 610 . Body 610 and strike plate 655 form cavity 620 . After faceplate 655 is secured to body 610, the only opening to cavity 620 is rear opening 680 in body 610, as shown for the embodiment of FIGS. 14-23. In some embodiments, step 720 of method 700 can further include a laser welding or surface fusion treatment process similar to that described in step 540 of method 500 above.

Step 720 may further include placing toe screw weight 662 within toe screw cavity 663 . Since toe screw cavity 663 opens into body cavity 620, toe screw weight 662 is inserted into toe screw cavity 663 so that insert material is expelled through toe screw cavity 663 during injection molding in step 730. can prevent Club head 600 may be further prepared for injection molding by precision machining the back or mouth of rear opening 680 . Golf club heads prepared by casting or forging typically lack a sufficiently smooth surface to seal the mold around them. In this embodiment of the manufacturing process, the back or mouth of rear opening 680 acts as a blocking surface that is filled with injected material during manufacturing. Tight tolerances are required to provide a clean seal to the mold at the shut-off surface and prevent flash formation during injection molding. Thus, the blocking surface (in this embodiment, the back or mouth of rear opening 680) can be precision machined to give the surface suitably tight tolerances to the mold.

At step 730 , insert material is injected in liquid form into cavity 620 through rear opening 60 . Cavity 620 of body 610 acts as a mold for the injected material. In some embodiments, the injection molding process bonds the insert material to the surfaces of cavity 620 . In order to inject material into cavity 620 under pressure, an injection device must be sealed to the mouth of rear opening 680 . The flat surface surrounding rear opening 680 in upper portion 608 of golf club head 600 facilitates creating a good seal between the ejection device and body 610 of golf club head 600 . In some embodiments, if the insert 640 only partially fills the cavity 620, the injection device further forms a seal against a portion of the cavity 620 to prevent material from filling the entire cavity 620. configured to

At step 740 of method 700, golf club head 600 is cleaned by sanding and polishing. Grinding is used to create a smooth surface on strike face 611 of golf club head 600 . Additionally, this step 740 may include polishing the surface of the golf club head 600 after grinding. In some embodiments, grooves are formed in strike face 611 of faceplate 655 and then strike face 611 is polished.

実施例 ２：慣性モーメント（ＭＯＩ）比較および重心（ＣＧ）比較 The method of manufacturing some embodiments of golf club head 600 is more similar to method 500 than to method 700 described above. In some embodiments, a method of forming a golf club head 600 in which the golf club head 600 includes a metal insert 640 entails placing the insert 640 within the cavity 640 prior to swaging the faceplate 655 . do.

VI. Example
Example 1: Golf Club Head Measurements The golf club head 100 was measured using several different parameters, as described above. Blade length 173, hosel-X length 174, offset distance 172, upper portion depth 116, and maximum height 175 were included. These values are compared to the game improved irons and both are shown in Table II below. Both the measured golf club head 100 and the game improvement iron were 7 irons and had approximately the same loft angle.

Example 2: Moment of Inertia (MOI) Comparison and Center of Gravity (CG) Comparison

A test was conducted to compare the MOI of a conventional tour iron head to the golf club head 100 described above. The traditional tour iron heads used in this comparative test are identical in size and head weight to the sample golf club heads. Therefore, this test isolated MOI as a variable and provided an accurate comparison of sample performance against conventional tour iron heads. The test produced an Ixx value of about 108 grams squared for the sample club head and an Ixx value of about 103 grams squared for the conventional tour iron heads. Therefore, the MOI around the x-axis 30 is about 4.8% higher in the sample club head. The test yielded an Iyy value of approximately 413 grams squared for the sample club head and an Iyy value of approximately 398 grams squared for the conventional tour iron heads. Therefore, the MOI around the y-axis 40 is approximately 3.7% higher in the sample club head. This test shows that lightweight inserts for the golf club head 100 provide MOI improvements without changing the size or weight of the golf club head 100 .

Additionally, (1) an iron similar to golf club head 600 with an insert formed from TPC with an opening in the rear, and (2) a golf club head with an opening in the rear and an insert formed from aluminum. (3) irons similar to golf club head 100 with closed cavities filled with TPC inserts; (4) irons similar to golf club heads 100 with closed cavities filled with aluminum inserts; and (5) a solid steel club head having a total club head volume similar to the golf club heads described herein. Measurements were made using computer-aided design (CAD) models of each golf club head. Table III below summarizes the collected MOI data. Table IV below summarizes the CG data collected.

Since MOI is a function of distance from the CG and mass, MOI reflects changes in the overall mass of the golf club head. Therefore, in order to accurately compare club head MOIs, the difference in total mass of golf club heads must be considered. To show the efficiency of MOI across the compared golf club heads, MOI was divided by the mass of the golf club head to derive the MOI efficiency value. MOI efficiency values for a golf club head can be compared independently of mass to show how the structure and local weights of the golf club head affect MOI. Therefore, the MOI values in both the x-axis 30 and y-axis 40 directions were higher for the solid steel golf club head (5) than for the low density insert golf club heads (1)-(4), but The MOI efficiency of real steel golf club head (5) was lower than that of golf club heads (1)-(4). Thus, golf club heads (1)-(4) with low density inserts are more forgiving than golf club heads lacking the low density inserts 140, 440, 460 of the golf club heads 100, 600 described herein. .

As can be seen from Table III, golf club heads (1)-(4) with low density inserts have 5.9%-11.2% higher x-axis 30 It has MOI efficiency. As can be seen from Table III, club heads (1)-(4) with low density inserts have 8.5%-15.5% higher MOI efficiencies along the y-axis 40 than solid steel golf club head (5). have

In addition to increasing MOI, lowering CG can also be beneficial to golf club head performance. The golf club heads 100 , 300 , 600 described herein include a lower CG60 than comparable solid steel irons having a similar shape as the golf club heads 100 and 600 . A lower CG is desirable in tour irons because it is easier to form shots when the CG is lower. For golf club head 600 , the CG reduction is due in part to the elimination of dense body material by including opening 680 in rear 603 .

Referring to FIG. 1, CGy is measured from the lead edge axis 35 along the y-axis 40 (vertically) and upwards. CGx is measured horizontally along the lead edge axis 35 with the origin at the y-axis 40 , with positive CGx values causing the CG to be closer to the heel 102 . CGz is measured backwards and horizontally along the z-axis 50 from the lead edge axis 35 . The CGy values are lower for golf club heads 1 and 2 than for golf club heads 3-5. This indicates that a golf club head with an opening at the rear of the body (similar to golf club head 600 described above) has a desirable lower CG. CG is 2.06% lower for club head 2 than for steel club head 5. The CG was 2.84% lower for golf club head 1 than steel golf club head 5, indicating that the low density TPC insert had an even better CG than its aluminum insert counterpart (golf club head 2). Placement brings about.

The comparative data in Tables III and IV further illustrate the strength of the closed cavity embodiment and the rear opening embodiment. All of the embodiments of the present invention (Comparative Golf Club Heads (1)-(4)) are an improvement over the solid club head (5), but the closed cavity embodiment (Comparative Golf Club Head (3) and (4)) and the rear-opening embodiments (comparative golf club heads (1) and (2)) offer unique advantages. The comparative data, as shown in the MOI Efficiency column of Table II, show that the MOI efficiency in both the x-30 and y-40 directions is higher than that of club head (1) in closed cavity club heads (3) and (4). , higher than in (2) and (5). This is because closed-cavity embodiments similar to golf club head 100 or comparative club heads (3) and (4) described herein, such as golf club head 600 or comparative club heads (1) and (2). is more forgiving than the embodiment with the opening at the rear of the . However, embodiments with rear openings 680 in body 610 have lower CG values than embodiments with closed cavities, as shown in the CGy column of Table IV.

Example 3: Center of Gravity Flatback vs. Bent Seamback Comparison

In addition to MOI and feel, the location of the CG of the golf club head affects performance. In particular, CG position affects the amount of torque imparted to the golf club head upon impact with the golf ball. Lowering the CG reduces the arm between the force exerted by the golf ball and the CG, as the golf ball is typically struck with the lower part of the strike face. A shortened arm between this applied force and the CG results in lower torque and improved launch characteristics at impact with a golf ball. Therefore, in order to provide the golfer with the best possible experience, the golf club heads described herein include a low CG.

Golf club heads similar to golf club heads 100, 300, and 600 and Comparisons were made between comparative golf club heads having varying depths from their top rails to their soles. The comparative golf club head has a flat rear extending from its top rail to its sole. To provide an accurate description, comparative golf club heads and golf club heads similar to 100, 300, and 600 were both modeled with the same total mass. The results of the comparison are outlined in Table IV below.

As shown in Table IV, CGy values measured along the vertical y-axis 40 are significantly lower for golf club heads similar to 100, 300, and 600. Specifically, golf club heads similar to 100, 300, and 600 include a CGy that is 0.039 inches lower than the comparative golf club head. This shows that a uniform depth of the upper portion 108, 608 above the inflection point 130, 630 lowers the CG and provides better launch and spin characteristics and higher ball speeds.

In addition, the CGz value is measured along the z-axis 50 and is negative behind CG 60 and positive ahead of CG 60 . CG 60 for golf club heads similar to 100, 300, and 600 are closer to the front of the golf club head.

Example 4: Feel and Sound

Part of the appeal of tour irons is their compact profile and sleek aesthetic. Additionally, forged golf club heads are perceived by many golfers to be superior to cast club heads. Therefore, it is important that tour irons meet such expectations. Golfers particularly enjoy the sound and feel of forged tour irons over other types of irons. In golf, the "feel" of a golf club head, as the golfer perceives it, plays a major role in a golfer's performance, and "feel" is generally defined by the weight, material, and weight of the strike face. Affected by acoustics and thickness. Many golfers agree that tour irons provide a mid-feel that many other types of irons lack. The golf club heads described herein exhibit equivalent, if not greater, feel and sound quality than existing tour irons.

A study was conducted to quantify the feel of a sample tour iron having a golf club head similar to golf club head 100 described herein. Twenty golfers participated in a study to compare their experience with sample irons to their experience with traditional tour irons. After using both the sample and traditional irons, survey participants were asked the following question for each iron: "How satisfied are you with the impact experience (feel/sound) provided by this iron?" The majority of players preferred the impact experience of the sample tour iron over the traditional tour iron.

Finally, iron quality and durability are critical to sustained performance. Strike faces 111, 311, and 611 are designed alone to withstand the stresses placed thereon by striking a golf ball. However, the inclusion of thermoplastic composite inserts 140 or 640, all-metal inserts 140 or 640, multi-material inserts 440, or lightening inserts 240 or 280 provide additional solidity to the golf club head and similar hollow bodies. To improve the acoustic quality of a golf club head rather than that of a golf club head. The faceplate 155, 655 improves the quality and durability of the golf club head by ensuring that the insert 140, 340, 440, 240, 280, or 640 remains secured inside the golf club head at all times. can do.

Example 5: Performance test

A control club, a first test club having an insert having a Shore A hardness of 30 (similar to golf club head 600 described above), and a second test club having an insert formed from TPU (similar to golf club head 600 described above). A test was conducted to compare the clubs. Shot data for all three clubs were recorded for 12 golfers. The results showed that both the first test club (Shore A30 insert) and the second test club (TPU insert) exhibited nearly similar ball speeds (within 0.9 mph) to the control club. . The launch angles and spin rates of the first and second test clubs were not significantly different from the launch angles of the control clubs. The control club was predicted to outperform the first and second test clubs in ball speed, launch angle, and spin rate due to the insert material. Therefore, it was unexpected when test results showed that the three clubs performed at similar ball velocities, launch angles, and spin rates.

As illustrated in FIG. 53, ball speed, launch angle, and spin rate were comparable for the three clubs, but the second test club showed more downline (or carry) and offline consistency. showed that. The landing point of each shot was charted and analyzed to determine the statistical plot area for each club. The statistical plot area is the elliptical area determined from the test data within which 90% of future shots are expected to fall. The statistical plot area is determined by first taking the average standard deviation of the downline distances of the test shots and multiplying it by a factor to form the downline radius of the ellipse. Taking the average standard deviation of the offline distances of the test shots and multiplying it by a factor gives the offline radius of the ellipse. The ellipse in the statistical plot area is centered on the average downline and off-line distance that 90% of future shots are expected to fall.

The first test club was performed similarly to the control club. The first test club produced a statistical plot area of 1246 square yards, while the control club produced a statistical plot area of 1183 square yards. However, the second test club (TPU insert) produced a statistical plot area approximately 42% smaller than the size of the statistical plot area of the control club. A second test club yielded a statistical area of 690 square yards. The smaller statistical plot area for the second test club shows that this club (TPU insert) greatly increases the golfer's shot consistency. As plotted in FIG. 53, the second test club (TPU insert) showed greater consistency in both the downline and offline directions compared to the control and first test club. This performance test showed that the second golf club (a TPU insert similar to golf club head 600) provided greater shot accuracy than either the control or the first golf club.

By combining and balancing CG placement, perimeter weighting for MOI, and tour iron look and feel, the golf club heads 100, 300, 600 described herein provide game-improving iron reliability for tour irons. There is a need in the art for an iron-type club head that combines the elegance of golf clubs. The golf club head 600 can also exhibit greater downline and off-line consistency than conventional golf club heads.

The golf club heads 100 and 600 described herein function as tour-type golf club heads. Golf club head 300 can function as a tour-type iron or a game-improvement iron. Golf club heads 100 and 600, and optionally 300, provide high MOI while remaining smaller than typical game-improving irons. These multi-material golf club heads 100 and 600, and optionally 300, provide a very forgiving and compact product.

Although FIGS. 1-52 show specific embodiments of golf club heads, the disclosure of the embodiments is intended to illustrate and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. It is intended that the scope of the disclosure be limited to the extent required by the appended claims.

The rules to golf are changed from time to time (e.g., new rules may be applied by golf standards bodies and/or governing bodies such as the United States Golf Association (USGA), the British Golf Association (R&A), or old rules may be applied). (the rules may be repealed or changed), golf equipment relating to the apparatus, methods and products described herein may or may not conform to the Rules of Golf at any particular time. Accordingly, golf equipment associated with the methods, apparatus, and/or products described herein may be advertised, offered for sale, and/or sold as conforming or non-conforming golf equipment. The methods, apparatus, and/or articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard.

Replacement of one or more of the claimed elements constitutes reconstruction and not repair. Additionally, benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described with regard to specific embodiments. However, advantages, other advantages and solutions to problems, and any element or elements that give rise to or make apparent any advantage, advantage or solution, shall not be construed as such advantages, advantages or solutions. shall not constitute a critical, essential, or essential feature or element of any or all elements of a claim, unless such solution or element is expressly recited in such claim. do not have.

Further, the embodiments and limitations described herein may be subject to claims where the embodiments and/or limitations are (1) not expressly claimed in a claim and (2) under the doctrine of equivalents. Equivalent or potentially equivalent terms and/or limitations in scope are not made available to the public under open policy.

Section 1: A golf club head comprising a faceplate, a body and an insert, the body having an upper portion, a lower portion, a sole, a rear and a top rail. wherein the sole rests on the ground plane, a loft plane contacts the faceplate and intersects the ground plane, the rear comprises a flexion seam, and the upper portion joins the top rail and the ground plane. bounded by a flexion seam, said lower portion bounded by said flexion seam and said sole, said faceplate, said rear and said top rail enclosing a cavity, said insert enclosing said cavity; an insert upper portion configured to be received within the upper portion of the body; and the insert configured to be received within the lower portion of the body. a molded insert lower portion, one or more recesses formed in said insert lower portion, said faceplate comprising a first material of a first density, said body comprises a second material of a second density, and the insert comprises a third material of a third density, said third density being less than the first and second densities. club head.

Clause 2: The insert has a front surface, a rear surface, a perimeter, and an insert flexion seam separating the insert upper portion from the insert lower portion, and wherein the insert upper portion and the insert lower portion A side portion is integrally formed at the insert flexion seam, and the one or more recesses extend inwardly from the front face of the insert toward the rear face, but extend toward the rear face of the insert. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the insert perimeter is flush with the walls of the cavity and the one or more recesses open only toward the faceplate. golf club head.

Clause 3: said one or more recesses comprises a plurality of recesses selected from the group consisting of 2 recesses, 3 recesses, 4 recesses, 5 recesses, and 6 recesses, and said insert . further comprises one or more ribs separating said plurality of recesses.

Clause 4: The golf club head of Clause 3, wherein the one or more ribs are oriented in a direction perpendicular to the faceplate and parallel to the top rail-sole direction.

Clause 5: The golf club head of Clause 1, wherein the insert upper portion is solid.

Clause 6: The insert has a front surface, a rear surface, a perimeter, and an insert flexion seam separating an insert upper portion from an insert lower portion, wherein the insert upper portion has two or more openings. , wherein the periphery of the insert forms a frame supporting the at least one connecting rail, the at least one connecting rail being supported by 1, 2, 3, 4 , 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 rails.

Clause 7: The insert weighs 5-6 grams, 5.5-6.5 grams, 6-7 grams, 6.5-7.5 grams more than a similar insert lacking the one or more recesses. gram, 7-8 grams, 7.5-8.5 grams, 8-9 grams, 8.5-9.5 grams, and 9-10 grams less than a mass selected from the group consisting of 9-10 grams; A golf club head as described.

Clause 8: said cavity wherein said insert is selected from the group consisting of 80%-85%, 85%-90%, 90%-95%, 95%-100%, and 80%-90% 2. The golf club head of paragraph 1, which fills a volume percentage of .

Clause 9: The upper portion of the insert has a height measured from the top rail to the flexion seam in a direction parallel to the loft plane, and the lower portion of the insert is parallel to the loft plane. a height measured in a direction from the sole to the flexion seam, wherein the height of the upper portion and the height of the lower portion comprise a ratio of 9:8 to 6:11; The upper portion has a first depth and the lower portion has a second depth, the depth extending from the striking surface to the rear outer surface in a direction perpendicular to the loft surface. , wherein the first depth is constant and less than the second depth.

Section 10: Heel and Toe, an x-axis extending in the heel-toe direction, parallel to the hitting surface and coincident with the center of gravity of the club head, and perpendicular to the ground plane and at the center of gravity. and a coincident y-axis, wherein a moment of inertia Ixx measured about the x-axis is in the range of 78 grams squared to 120 grams squared, and a moment of inertia Iyy measured about the y-axis. is in the range of 310 grams squared to 466 grams squared.

Clause 11: The golf club head of Clause 1, wherein said third density is between 2.4 and 5.0 g/cc.

Clause 12: The golf club head of Clause 11, wherein said third material comprises a material selected from the group consisting of aluminum and titanium.

Clause 13: The golf club head of Clause 1, wherein said first density is between 2.6 and 8.7 g/cc and said second density is between 7.7 and 8.1 g/cc.

Clause 14: The first material comprises a material selected from the group consisting of steel-based materials, titanium-based materials, aluminum alloys, or titanium alloys, and the second material comprises steel-based materials. Clause 14. The golf club head of Clause 13, comprising a material selected from the group consisting of materials or steel alloys.

Clause 15: Further comprising a total mass and a toe weight, said body further comprising a toe cavity, said toe cavity receiving said toe weight, said toe weight being attached to said club 3. The golf club head of paragraph 1, comprising a mass of between 5% and 45% of the total mass of the head.

Item 16: a center of gravity, a lead edge axis parallel to the ground plane, extending in a heel-toe direction and coincident with the loft plane, and a lead edge axis parallel to the ground plane and coincident with the lead edge axis. and a y-axis orthogonal to the ground plane and coincident with the center of gravity, wherein the center of gravity of the golf club head is between 0.380 inches above the lead edge plane. 2. The golf club head of paragraph 1 located between 0.670 inches.

Item 17: A heel and toe, a center plane running vertically through the center of said faceplate, a cylindrical hosel integral with said body, and a front end of said cylindrical hosel when viewed from the toe side. a parallel hosel reference plane, a hosel axis defined as the central axis of said cylindrical hosel, a lead edge axis parallel to said ground plane and extending in a heel-toe direction and coincident with said loft plane; a hosel-to-X distance of less than 1.5 inches measured from the intersection of the lead edge axis and the center plane to the intersection of the lead edge axis and the hosel axis when viewed from the front; an offset distance, measured as the minimum distance between the lead edge axis and the hosel reference surface, that is between 0.05 inches and 0.27 inches. .

Section 18: further comprising: heel and toe; and a blade length, measured in the heel-toe direction from said heel edge of said striking face to said toe-most point, being less than 2.8 inches. 2. The golf club head of paragraph 1, wherein

Clause 19: The golf club head of Clause 1, further comprising a high density tape positioned between the insert and the faceplate.

Clause 20: The body further comprises a recess, the recess abutting the periphery of the cavity, a region of the back surface of the faceplate contacting the insert, and a remainder of the back surface of the faceplate. 2. The golf club head of Clause 1, wherein a region of contacts the recess.

Item 21: A golf club head comprising a body and an insert, said body comprising an upper portion, a lower portion, a sole, a rear, a toe region, a heel region, a top rail, and wherein the sole rests on a ground plane, a loft plane abuts the faceplate and intersects the ground plane, the rear comprises a flexion seam, and the upper portion is bounded by said top rail and said flexion seam, said lower portion is bounded by said flexion seam and said sole, and said sole and said rear of said body and said top rail form a cavity. the body defining a front opening that connects to the cavity, the insert being received in the cavity and the front opening, the insert forming at least a portion of a striking face wherein said body comprises a first material of a first density, said insert comprises a second material of a second density, said second density being equal to said first less than the density of the golf club head.

Clause 22: The insert comprises an insert upper portion configured to be received in the upper portion of the body, and the insert is configured to be received in the lower portion of the body. Clause 22. The golf club head of Clause 21, comprising an insert lower portion that rests against the strike face, wherein the insert upper portion and the insert lower portion together form at least a portion of the strike face.

Clause 23: The golf club head of Clause 21, wherein said first density of said first material is between 7.70 and 8.10 g/cc.

Clause 24: The golf club head of Clause 21, wherein the second material comprises a polymeric resin and reinforcing fibers.

Clause 25: The second material is glass-filled elastomer, stainless steel-filled elastomer, tungsten-filled elastomer, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), Kevlar® (aramid) fiber reinforced polymer; and a carbon fiber reinforced polymer.

Clause 26: The golf club head of Clause 21, wherein said second density of said second material is between 0.8 g/cc and 1.4 g/cc.

Clause 27: The body further comprises a rear wall of the rear defining a rear opening, the rear opening opposite the front opening and located in the upper portion of the body, Clause 22. The golf club head according to Clause 21, wherein said insert is further received in said rear opening.

Clause 28: The golf club head of Clause 27, wherein the mass of the upper portion of the body is between 1 gram and 70 grams less than the mass of a golf club head lacking a rear opening and a lower density insert than the body. .

Clause 29: The body is further provided within the cavity and extending from one or more of the rear, the sole, the toe region, and the heel region. Clause 22. The golf club head of Clause 21, comprising a locking feature.

Clause 30: The golf club head of Clause 29, wherein the at least one securing feature extends from the rear to the sole within the cavity.

Clause 31: At least one said securing feature comprises a first end and a second end, said first end and said second end both being attached to said sole within said cavity. 30. The golf club head of clause 29, wherein the golf club head is

Clause 32: Clause 29: At least one of said locking features forms a through hole filled by said insert, said insert being geometrically locked by said at least one of said locking features. The golf club head described in .

Clause 33: The body further comprises an undercut in the top rail, the undercut forming part of the cavity, the insert filling the undercut to Clause 22. The golf club head of Clause 21, which is mechanically locked within the cavity.

Clause 34: The body further comprises an undercut in the sole, the undercut forming part of the cavity, and the insert fills the undercut so that the cavity Clause 22. The golf club head of Clause 21, wherein the golf club head is mechanically locked within.

Section 35: an x-axis extending in the heel-toe direction, parallel to the striking face and coincident with the center of gravity of the club head, and a y-axis orthogonal to the ground plane and coincident with the center of gravity. , wherein the moment of inertia Ixx measured about the x-axis is in the range of 78 grams squared to 120 grams squared, and the moment of inertia Iyy measured about the y-axis is 310 grams squared. 22. The golf club head of Clause 21, which ranges from inches to 466 grams square inches.

Clause 36: The golf club head of Clause 21, wherein the first material comprises a material selected from the group consisting of steel-based materials, titanium-based materials, aluminum alloys, and titanium alloys.

Clause 37: Further comprising a total mass and a toe weight, said body further comprising a toe cavity, said toe weight being between 5% and 45% of said total mass of said club head. 22. The golf club head of Clause 21, having a mass of .

Item 38: A center of gravity, a lead edge axis parallel to the ground plane, extending in a heel-toe direction and coincident with the loft plane, and a lead edge axis parallel to the ground plane and coincident with the lead edge axis. and a y-axis orthogonal to the ground plane and coincident with the center of gravity, wherein the center of gravity of the golf club head is between 0.380 inches above the lead edge plane. 22. The golf club head of Clause 21 located between 0.670 inches.

Item 39: A heel and toe, a center plane running vertically through the center of said faceplate, a cylindrical hosel integral with said body, and a front end of said cylindrical hosel when viewed from the toe side. a parallel hosel reference plane, a hosel axis defined as the central axis of said cylindrical hosel, a lead edge axis parallel to said ground plane and extending in a heel-toe direction and coincident with said loft plane; a hosel-to-X distance of less than 1.5 inches measured from the intersection of the lead edge axis and the center plane to the intersection of the lead edge axis and the hosel axis when viewed from the front; and an offset distance, measured as the minimum distance between the lead edge axis and the hosel reference surface, that is between 0.05 inches and 0.27 inches. .

Section 40: further comprising: heel and toe; and a blade length measured in the heel-toe direction from said heel edge of said striking face to said toe-most point, being less than 2.8 inches. 22. The golf club head of clause 21, wherein the golf club head is

Claims (20)

A golf club head,
It has a body and an insert,
the body comprises an upper portion, a lower portion, a sole, a rear, a toe region, a heel region and a top rail;
The sole is placed on a ground plane,
The loft surface is in contact with the faceplate and intersects the ground surface,
said rear having a flexion seam,
said upper portion is bounded by said top rail and said flexion seam;
the lower portion is bounded by the flexion seam and the sole;
the sole, the rear and the top rail of the body surround a cavity;
the body defines a front opening that connects to the cavity;
the insert is received in the cavity and the front opening;
the insert forms at least a portion of a striking face;
the body comprises a first material of a first density;
the insert comprises a second material of a second density;
The golf club head, wherein the second density is less than the first density. the insert comprising an insert upper portion configured to be received in the upper portion of the body;
the insert comprising an insert lower portion configured to be received in the lower portion of the body;
2. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein said insert upper portion and said insert lower portion together form at least a portion of said strike face. 2. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein said first density of said first material is between 7.70 and 8.10 g/cc. 3. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the second material comprises polymer resin and reinforcing fibers. The second material is glass-filled elastomer, stainless steel-filled elastomer, tungsten-filled elastomer, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), Kevlar® (aramid) fiber reinforced polymer, and carbon fiber reinforced. 5. The golf club head of claim 4, selected from the group consisting of polymers. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein said second density of said second material is between 0.8 g/cc and 1.4 g/cc. said body further comprising said rear opening wall defining a rear opening;
the rear opening is opposite the front opening and located on the upper portion of the body;
2. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein said insert is further received in said rear opening. 8. The golf club head of claim 7, wherein the mass of the upper portion of the body is between 1 gram and 70 grams less than the mass of a golf club head lacking a rear opening and a lower density insert than the body. The body further comprises one or more securing features disposed within the cavity and extending from one or more of the rear, the sole, the toe region, and the heel region. 2. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the golf club head comprises: 10. The golf club head of claim 9, wherein the at least one securing feature extends from the rear to the sole within the cavity. at least one of said securing features having a first end and a second end;
10. The golf club head of claim 9, wherein both the first end and the second end are attached to the sole within the cavity. at least one of said fixation features forming a through hole that is filled by said insert;
10. The golf club head of claim 9, wherein said insert is geometrically locked by said at least one said locking feature. said body further comprising an undercut in said top rail,
the undercut forming part of the cavity,
3. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the insert is mechanically locked within the cavity by filling the undercut. said body further comprising an undercut in said sole,
the undercut forming part of the cavity,
3. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the insert is mechanically locked within the cavity by filling the undercut. an x-axis extending in a heel-toe direction, parallel to the striking face and coincident with the center of gravity of the club head;
a y-axis orthogonal to the ground plane and coincident with the center of gravity;
the moment of inertia Ixx measured about the x-axis is in the range of 78 grams squared to 120 grams squared;
2. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the moment of inertia Iyy measured about the y-axis ranges from 310 grams squared to 466 grams squared. 3. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the first material comprises a material selected from the group consisting of steel-based materials, titanium-based materials, aluminum alloys, and titanium alloys. total mass and
It also features a tow weight and a
said body further comprising a toe cavity,
the toe cavity houses the toe weight,
3. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the toe weight comprises a mass between 5% and 45% of the total mass of the club head. center of gravity and
a lead edge axis parallel to the ground plane and extending in a heel-toe direction and coincident with the loft plane;
a lead edge surface parallel to the ground plane and coincident with the lead edge axis;
a y-axis orthogonal to the ground plane and coincident with the center of gravity;
3. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the center of gravity of the golf club head is located between 0.380 inches and 0.670 inches above the lead edge surface. heel and toe,
a center plane extending vertically through the center of the faceplate;
a cylindrical hosel integral with said body;
a hosel reference plane parallel to the front end of said cylindrical hosel when viewed from the toe side;
a hosel axis defined as the central axis of the cylindrical hosel;
a lead edge axis parallel to the ground plane and extending in a heel-toe direction and coincident with the loft plane;
a hosel-to-X distance of less than 1.5 inches measured from the intersection of the lead edge axis and the center plane to the intersection of the lead edge axis and the hosel axis when viewed from the front;
and an offset distance, measured as the minimum distance between the lead edge axis and the hosel reference surface, that is between 0.05 inches and 0.27 inches. head. heel and toe,
and a blade length measured in the heel-toe direction from the heel edge of the striking face to the outermost point of the toe that is less than 2.8 inches. club head.

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