JP3236524U - Golf club head with damping element for ball velocity control - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a golf club head for adjusting a flight distance by simply and surely lining a striking face. A golf club head 800 including a rear portion 812, a striking face 818, and a club head body having an internal cavity 820 formed between the rear portion 812 and the striking face 818. The striking face 818 has a front surface configured to hit a golf ball, a back surface opposite the front surface, and a deformable member 702 is disposed between the rear portion 812 and the back surface portion of the striking face 818. The deformable member 702 includes a front surface in contact with the back surface of the striking face 818 and a back surface in contact with the rear portion 812, and the deformable member 702 includes a free thickness and a mounting thickness IT, and has a free thickness. The mounting thickness is at least 5% larger than the IT. [Selection Diagram] FIG. 62.

Description

The present invention relates to a golf club head provided with a ball speed control damping element.

The goal for golfers is to reduce the total number of swings required to complete a round of golf, thereby reducing their overall score. To achieve that goal, the golfer wants the ball to fly a similar distance when hit by the same golf club, and for some clubs the ball flies a long distance. Is generally desirable. For example, when a golfer slightly misses a golf ball, the golfer does not want the golf ball to fly significantly different distances. At the same time, golfers do not want the overall distance to always be significantly reduced each time they hit the ball, even when hitting the ball at the "sweet spot" of a golf club. In addition, it is desirable to give the golfer a pleasing sound when the golf club hits the golf ball.

JP-A-2018-015565

One non-limiting embodiment of the technique is a golf club head comprising a rear portion, a striking face, and a club head body having an internal cavity formed between the posterior portion and the striking face, said striking. The face has a front surface configured to hit a golf ball and a back surface opposite the front surface, and the rear portion is separated from the back surface of the striking face. The golf club head further has a deformable member disposed between the rear portion and the back surface of the striking face, wherein the deformable member has a front surface in contact with the back surface of the striking face. The deformable member has a back surface that contacts the rear portion, and the deformable member has a free thickness between the front surface of the deformable member and the back surface of the deformable member, and is deformable. The member has a mounting thickness between the front surface of the deformable member and the back surface of the deformable member, and the free thickness is at least 5% larger than the mounting thickness.

In other non-limiting embodiments of the art, the free thickness is at least 10% greater than the mounting thickness.

In other non-limiting embodiments of the art, the free thickness is at least 15% larger than the mounting thickness.

In other non-limiting embodiments of the art, the free thickness is at least 20% greater than the mounting thickness.

In another non-limiting embodiment of the art, an opening is formed through the rear portion, the adjustment driver is placed in the opening, and the back surface of the deformable member contacts the adjustment driver.

In another non-limiting embodiment of the art, the adjustment driver comprises a spacer that abuts the back surface of the deformable member.

In another non-limiting embodiment of the art, the deformable member comprises a first material that abuts on the striking face and a second material that abuts on the rear portion, the second material. The shore A hardness of the above first material is larger than the shore A hardness of the first material.

In another non-limiting embodiment of the art, the shore A hardness of the first material is less than 30, and the shore A hardness of the second material is greater than 35.

One non-limiting embodiment of the technique is a golf club head comprising a rear portion, a striking face, and a club head body having an internal cavity formed between the posterior portion and the striking face, said striking. The face has a front surface configured to hit a golf ball and a back surface opposite the front surface, and the rear portion is separated from the back surface of the striking face. The golf club head further has a deformable member disposed between the rear portion and the back surface of the striking face, and the deformable member has a front surface in contact with the back surface of the striking face. An opening is formed through the rear portion, the adjustment driver is placed in the opening, the deformable member has a back surface, the back surface of the deformable member contacts the adjustment driver, and the deformable member of the deformable member. The diameter of the portion of the striking face that abuts on the back surface is larger than the diameter of the opening.

In another non-limiting embodiment of the art, the deformable member comprises a first material that abuts on the striking face and a second material that abuts on the rear portion, the second material. The shore A hardness of the above first material is larger than the shore A hardness of the first material.

In another non-limiting embodiment of the art, the shore A hardness of the first material is less than 30, and the shore A hardness of the second material is greater than 35.

In another non-limiting embodiment of the art, the deformable member has a free thickness between the front surface of the deformable member and the back surface of the deformable member. It has a mounting thickness between the front surface of the deformable member and the back surface of the deformable member, and the free thickness is at least 5% larger than the mounting thickness.

In other non-limiting embodiments of the art, the free thickness is at least 10% greater than the mounting thickness.

In other non-limiting embodiments of the art, the free thickness is at least 15% larger than the mounting thickness.

In other non-limiting embodiments of the art, the free thickness is at least 20% greater than the mounting thickness.

Another non-limiting embodiment of the technique is the step of identifying the target repulsion coefficient value of the golf club head and selecting the appropriate deformable member and adjustment driver for the golf club head to reach the target repulsion coefficient value. A method of manufacturing a golf club head comprising a step of attaching a suitable deformable member and an adjusting driver to the golf club head through an opening formed in the rear portion of the golf club head. , Contact the back of the striking face of the golf club head.

Other non-limiting examples of this technique include testing the repulsion coefficient value of a golf club head.

Other non-limiting embodiments of the art include selecting an alternative deformable member or adjustment driver to meet the target repulsion coefficient value.

Another non-limiting embodiment of the art is to golf the deformable member so that the diameter of the portion of the deformable member that abuts on the back surface of the striking face is larger than the diameter of the opening. A step of deforming the deformable member when mounting the club head is included.

Other non-limiting examples of this technique include testing the repulsion coefficient value of the golf club head.

The outline described herein is provided in a simplified form for the selection and introduction of ideas of the invention, which will be further described in the detailed description below. The outline is not intended to identify the main or basic features of the subject described in the utility model registration claims below, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the subject. ..

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

FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomer element. FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomer element. The perspective sectional views of the golf club heads shown in FIGS. 1A to 1B are shown. FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element and a striking face with a thick central portion. FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element and a striking face with a thick central portion. A cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomer element and an adjusting mechanism for adjusting the compression of the elastomer element is shown. A cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomer element and an adjusting mechanism for adjusting the compression of the elastomer element is shown. A perspective view of another example of a golf club head having an elastomer element and an adjusting mechanism for adjusting the compression of the elastomer element is shown. FIG. 4A shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 4A. A cross-sectional view of another example of a golf club having an elastomeric element and an adjusting mechanism for adjusting the compression of the elastomeric element is shown. The stress contour diagram of the golf club head containing no elastomer element is shown. The stress contour diagram of the golf club head having an elastomer element is shown. The front view of the golf club head is shown. FIG. 6A shows a side view of the golf club head on the toe side. 6A is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of the golf club head of FIG. 6A. FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 6A oriented in a direction perpendicular to the striking face. FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 6A oriented in a direction perpendicular to the striking face, including the supported area. The perspective view of the golf club head is shown. FIG. 7A shows an additional perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 7A. The rear view of the golf club head of FIG. 7A is shown. The BB sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C is shown. FIG. 7C shows a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC of the golf club head of FIG. 7C. The DD sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C is shown. FIG. 7A shows an additional cross-sectional view of the front surface of the golf club head of FIG. 7A, excluding the hitting face. FIG. 9B shows a cross-sectional view of FIG. 9A with the deformable member removed. FIG. 7A is a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 7A oriented perpendicular to the striking face including the supported area. FIG. 7C shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C, including additional examples of elastomeric elements. FIG. 7C shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C, including additional examples of elastomeric elements. FIG. 7C shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C, including additional examples of elastomeric elements. FIG. 7C shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C, including additional examples of elastomeric elements. FIG. 11A shows a periodogram power spectral density estimation of the golf club head shown in FIG. 11A. The acoustic output estimation of the golf club head shown in FIG. 11A is shown. The periodogram power spectral density estimation of the golf club head shown in FIG. 11D is shown. The acoustic output estimation of the golf club head shown in FIG. 11D is shown. The cross-sectional view of the elastomer element whose rear part is larger than the front part is shown. The cross-sectional view of the elastomer element whose rear part is larger than the front part is shown. The cross-sectional view of the elastomer element whose rear part is larger than the front part is shown. FIG. 14 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomer element similar to the elastomer element of FIG. 14A but comprising a first material and a second material. FIG. 14B shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomer element similar to that of FIG. 14B but comprising a first material and a second material. FIG. 14 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomer element similar to the elastomer element of FIG. 14C but comprising a first material and a second material. FIG. 14 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomer element similar to the elastomer element of FIG. 14A but with the center of the front portion offset from the center of the rear portion. FIG. 14B shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomer element similar to the elastomer element of FIG. 14B but with the center of the front portion offset from the center of the rear portion. FIG. 14 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomer element similar to the elastomer element of FIG. 14C, but with the center of the front portion offset from the center of the rear portion. FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element with a neck squeezed between the anterior and posterior portions. FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element with a neck squeezed between the anterior and posterior portions. FIG. 14 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomer element similar to the elastomer element of FIG. 14J but comprising a first material and a second material. The rear view of the golf club head is shown. The perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 15A is shown. Another perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 15A is shown. FIG. 15A shows a cross-sectional view taken along the line EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. A cross-sectional view taken along the line EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A is shown without mounting the adjustment driver and elastomeric elements. FIG. 15A shows a perspective view of the adjustment driver and elastomer element of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. FIG. 15A shows another perspective view of the golf club head adjustment driver and elastomer element. FIG. 15A shows a side view of the adjustment driver and elastomer element of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. FIG. 15A shows a cross-sectional view of the adjustment driver and elastomer element of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. FIG. 15A shows another perspective view of the golf club head adjustment driver and elastomer element. The rear view of the golf club head is shown. The exploded view of the golf club head of FIG. 18 is shown. The FF sectional view of a golf club head is shown. The GG cross-sectional view of a golf club head is shown. The front view of the golf club head including the supported area is shown. A perspective view of another embodiment of the golf club head and the second deformable member is shown. The second deformable member shown in FIG. 23 is shown. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line FF of the golf club head including the second deformable member shown in FIGS. 23 and 24. FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head. 27 shows a side view of the golf club head of FIG. 26. FIG. 28 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head of FIG. 26, in which the weight member, the second damping element, and the first damping element are missing. 29 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head of FIG. 26, in which the weight member and the second damping element are missing. FIG. 30 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head of FIG. 26, in which the weight member is missing. FIG. 31 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head of FIG. 32 shows a cross-sectional view I-I of the golf club head of FIG. 27, in which the weight member is missing. 33 shows a cross-sectional view JJ of the golf club head of FIG. 27. FIG. 34 shows a perspective view of a first damping element and a second damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 26. FIG. 35 shows an additional perspective view of the first damping element and the second damping element of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 36 shows a perspective view of the second damping element of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 37 shows an additional perspective view of the second damping element of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 38 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of the golf club head. FIG. 39 shows a side view of the golf club head of FIG. 38. FIG. 40 shows a cross-sectional view KK of the golf club head of FIG. 38. 41 shows a cross-sectional view LL of the golf club head of FIG. 38. FIG. 42 shows a detailed view of FIG. 41. FIG. 43 shows a cross-sectional view MM of the golf club head of FIG. 38, in which the first damping element is missing. FIG. 44 shows a perspective view of the second damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 38. FIG. 45 shows a cross-sectional view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head. FIG. 46 shows a perspective view of a second damping element and a third damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 45. FIG. 47 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of the golf club head. FIG. 48 shows a perspective view of a cross section NN of the golf club head of FIG. 47. FIG. 49 shows a side view of a cross section NN of the golf club head of FIG. 47. FIG. 50 shows a detailed view of the golf club head of FIG. 49. FIG. 51 shows a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 47, in which the damping element is missing. FIG. 52 shows a perspective view of a cross section OO of the golf club head of FIG. 51. FIG. 53 shows a side view of a cross section OO of the golf club head of FIG. 51. FIG. 54 shows a perspective view of the damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 47. FIG. 55 shows an additional perspective view of the damping element of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. 47. FIG. 56 shows a perspective view of a cross section PP of the damping element of FIG. 54. FIG. 57 shows a side view of the cross section PP of the damping element of FIG. 54. FIG. 58 shows a detailed view of the damping element of FIG. 57. FIG. 59 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of the golf club head. FIG. 60 shows a side view of a cross section QQ of the golf club head of FIG. 59. FIG. 61 shows an additional cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 59 including a golf club shaft and a sixth damping element. FIG. 62 shows cross-sectional views EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A, including additional embodiments of the deformable member. FIG. 63 shows cross-sectional views EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A, including additional embodiments of the deformable member. FIG. 64 shows cross-sectional views EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A, including additional embodiments of the deformable member. FIG. 65 shows cross-sectional views EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A, including additional embodiments of the deformable member. FIG. 66 shows the deformable member and adjustment driver of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 67 shows a method of manufacturing a golf club head.

The technique described herein contemplates an iron-type golf club head incorporating an elastomeric element to promote a more uniform ball speed across the striking face of the golf club. Traditional thin-walled iron-type golf clubs generally produce uneven launch velocities across the striking face due to increased compliance at the geometric center of the striking face. For example, when a golf club hits a golf ball, the hitting face of the club bends and then pops forward, accelerating the golf ball from the hitting face. Although such a design may increase the flight distance of the golf ball when struck in the center of the face, off-center hits of the golf ball result in a significant loss of flight distance of the golf ball. By comparison, a very thick face causes a more uniform flight of the ball regardless of the striking position, but causes a significant loss of launch speed. The technique incorporates an elastomeric element between the rear of the hollow iron and the back surface of the striking face. The inclusion of the elastomeric element will reduce the magnitude of the launch rate for impacts at the center of the face, but will improve the uniformity of launch rates throughout the impact face. In some examples, the compression of the elastomeric element between the rear and the hitting face may also be adjustable, so that the hitting face when a golfer or golf club fitting expert hits a golf ball. Allows the deflection of the.

1A-1B show cross-sectional views of a golf club head 100 comprising an elastomer element 102. FIG. 1C shows a perspective sectional view of the golf club head 100. FIGS. 1A to 1C will be described at the same time. The golf club head 100 includes a striking face 118 and a rear portion 112. A cavity 120 is formed between the striking face 118 and the rear portion 112. The elastomer element 102 is arranged in the cavity 120 between the striking face 118 and the rear portion 112. The back surface of the elastomer element 102 is held in place by the cradle 108. The cradle 108 is attached to the rear portion 112 of the golf club head 100, which cradle 108 includes a recess 109 to accommodate the back portion of the elastomer element 102. The lip of the cradle 108 prevents the elastomer element 102 from slipping or otherwise misaligning. The elastomer element 102 may have a substantially conical trapezoidal shape, as shown in FIGS. 1A to 1B. In another example, the elastomer element 102 may have a cylindrical, spherical, rectangular parallelepiped, or prismatic shape. The recess 109 of the cradle 108 is formed so as to substantially match the shape of the back surface portion of the elastomer element 102. The back surface of the elastomer element 102 is in contact with the inner wall of the recess 109 of the cradle 108. The cradle 108 may be welded or otherwise attached to the rear portion 112, or the cradle 108 may be formed during the casting or forging process as part of the rear portion 112. The rear portion 112 may also be machined to include the cradle 108.

The front portion 103 of the elastomer element 102 contacts the back surface 119 of the striking face 118. The front portion 103 of the elastomer element 102 may be held in place on the back surface 119 of the striking face 118 by a fixing mechanism. The flange 110 projects into the cavity 120 from the back surface 119 of the striking face 118. The flange 110 accommodates the front portion 103 of the elastomer element 102 to substantially prevent the elastomer element 102 from slipping along the back surface 119 of the striking face 118. The flange 110 may partially or completely surround the anterior portion 103 of the elastomer element 102. Similar to the cradle 108, the flange 110 matches the shape of the front portion 103 of the elastomer element 102 so that the surface of the front portion 103 of the elastomer element 102 contacts the inner surface of the flange 110. The flange 110 may be welded to or otherwise attached to the back surface 119 of the striking face 118. The flange 110 may also be cast or forged during the formation of the striking face 118. For example, if the striking face 118 is a face insert, the flange 110 may incorporate the flange 110 into it while casting or casting the face insert. In another example, the flange 110 and striking face 118 may be machined from a thicker face plate. Alternative fixing structures other than the flange 110 may also be used. For example, two or more struts may be included in the back surface 119 of the striking face 118 around the periphery of the anterior portion 103 of the elastomer element 102. As another example, an adhesive may be used to attach the elastomer element 102 to the back surface 119 of the striking face 118. In another embodiment, the fixation structure is not utilized and compression between the cradle 108 and the back surface 119 of the striking face 118 holds the elastomer element 102 entirely in its place.

In the examples shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, the elastomer element 102 is located approximately behind the geometric center of the striking face 118. In traditional thin-faced golf clubs, hitting at the geometric center of the hitting face 118 results in the maximum displacement of the hitting face 118, thus achieving the highest ball velocity. By placing the elastomer element 102 at the geometric center of the hitting face 118, the deflection of the hitting face 118 at that point is reduced, resulting in a reduction in ball velocity. However, the portion of the striking face 118 that is not lined by the elastomer element 102 continues to bend into the cavity 120, increasing the velocity of the golf ball. Thus, a more uniform distribution of ball velocities resulting from a ball hit across the hit face 118 from heel to toe can be achieved. In another example, the elastomer element 102 may be placed elsewhere within the golf club head 100.

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

The golf club head 100 also includes a sole 105 having a sole channel 104 between the front sole portion 114 and the back sole portion 116. The sole channel 104 extends along the sole 105 of the golf club head 100 from a point near the heel to a point near the toe. Although depicted as a hollow channel, the sole channel 104 may be filled or spanned with plastic, rubber, polymer, or other material to prevent debris from entering the cavity 120. The sole channel 104 allows further deflection of the lower portion of the striking face 118. By further bending the lower portion of the striking face 118, a high ball velocity is realized from the ball striking on the lower portion of the striking face 118, for example, from the ball striking from the turf. Therefore, the elastomer element 102 and the sole channel 104 are combined with each other to achieve a uniform ball velocity over the entire striking face 118 and to increase the flight distance of the golf ball for turfing.

2A-2B show a cross-sectional view of a golf club head 200 having an elastomer element 202 and a striking face 218 with a thick central portion 222. The golf club head 200 is similar to the golf club head 100 previously discussed with reference to FIGS. 1A-1C, except that the thick portion 222 of the striking face 218 is used instead of the flange 110. The thick portion 222 of the striking face 218 projects into the cavity 220. The front portion 203 of the elastomer element 202 contacts the back surface surface 219 of the thick portion 222. The back portion of the elastomer element 202 is housed in the cradle 208 by the recess 209, which is attached to the rear portion 212 and is substantially similar to the cradle 108 previously discussed with reference to FIGS. 1A-1C. Due to the thickened portion 222 of the striking face 218, the elastomer element 202 may be shorter in length than the elastomer element 102 in FIGS. 1A-1C. The golf club head 200 also includes a sole channel 204 disposed between the front sole portion 214 and the back sole portion 216. The sole channel 204 also realizes the same advantages as the sole channel 104 described in FIGS. 1A-1C and may be filled with or covered with a material.

3A-3B show a cross-sectional view of a golf club head 300 having an elastomer element 302 and an adjusting mechanism for adjusting the compression of the elastomer element 302. The golf club head 300 includes a striking face 318 and a rear portion 312, and a cavity 320 is formed between the rear portion 312 and the striking face 318. Similar to the golf club head 100 described above with reference to FIGS. 1A-1C, the flange 310 is arranged on the back surface 319 of the striking face 318, which accommodates the front portion 303 of the elastomer element 302. In the examples shown in FIGS. 3A to 3B, the elastomer element 302 has a substantially cylindrical shape. However, in another example, the elastomer element 302 may have a conical shape, a conical trapezoidal shape, a spherical shape, a rectangular parallelepiped shape, or a prismatic shape.

The golf club head 300 also includes an adjusting mechanism. The adjusting mechanism is configured to adjust the compression of the elastomer element 302 with respect to the back surface 319 of the striking face 318. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A to 3B, the adjusting mechanism includes an adjusting unit accommodating unit 306 and an adjusting driver 330. The adjusting unit accommodating portion 306 may have a structure having a through hole to the cavity 320, and the adjusting driver 330 may be a threaded part or a screw, which is as shown in the figure. The through hole of the adjusting unit accommodating unit 306 includes a threaded inner surface for accommodating the threaded component 330. The adjusting accommodating portion 306 may be formed as part of the forging or casting process of the rear portion 312, or may be formed by machining and tapping following the forging and casting process. The threaded component 330 includes an interface 334 such as a recess that contacts or accommodates the back surface of the elastomeric element 302. The threaded component 330 also includes a screw drive 332, which is at least partially exposed to the outside of the golf club head 300 so that the golfer can access the screw drive 332. There is. When the threaded part 330 is rotated through, for example, a screw driver, an Allen wrench, or a torque wrench via the screw drive section 332, the threaded part 330 is placed inside or outside the cavity 320. Moving. In some examples, the interface 334 that contacts or houses the back of the elastomer element 302 is lubricated and thus twisted of the elastomer element 302 as the threaded part 330 is rotated. Or it is designed to prevent rotation. As the threaded component 330 moves further within the cavity 320, the compression of the elastomer element 302 with respect to the back surface 319 of the striking face 318 increases, thereby altering the performance of the elastomer element 302.

The higher compression of the elastomer element 302 against the back surface 319 of the striking face 318 further limits the deflection of the striking face 318. Second, further limitation of deflection causes a more uniform ball velocity throughout the striking face 318. However, limiting deflection also reduces the maximum ball velocity from the center of the striking face 318. By allowing the adjustment mechanism to adjust the compression of the elastomer element 302, the golfer or golf club fitting expert may adjust the compression to suit the golfer's specific needs. For example, a golfer who desires an additional maximum distance but does not require a uniform ball velocity throughout the striking face 318 can reduce the default compression of the elastomer element 302 by loosening the threaded component 330. In contrast, a golfer who desires a ball velocity over the striking face 318 can tighten the threaded component 330 to increase the default compression of the elastomer element 302.

The adjusting mechanism is shown in FIGS. 3A-3B to include the threaded part 330 and the threaded through hole, but with other adjusting mechanisms, the elastomer for the back surface of the striking face 318. The compression of element 302 can be adjusted. For example, the adjusting mechanism may include a lever, the rotation of the lever may change the compression of the elastomer element 302. The adjustment mechanism may also include a push-down button to directly increase the compression of the elastomeric element 302. Other types of adjustment mechanisms may also be used.

The golf club head 300 also includes a sole channel 304 similar to the sole channel 104 described above with reference to FIGS. 1A-1C, between the front sole portion 314 and the back sole portion 316. The sole channel 304 also realizes the same advantages as the sole channel 104 and may be filled or covered with material.

The golf club head 300 may also be manufactured or sold as a kit. In the illustrated example where the adjusting mechanism is a threaded part 330 such as a screw, the kit may include a plurality of threaded parts 330. Each of the threaded parts 330 may have different weights so that the golfer can select the desired weight. For example, one golfer may prefer an overall lighter weight for an iron head, while another may prefer a heavier weight. The plurality of threaded parts 330 may also be configured to distribute the weight of each of the threaded parts 330 along their length direction, if desired. The plurality of threaded parts 330 may also be of different lengths. By varying the length, each of the threaded parts 330 may have the maximum compression that can be applied to the elastomeric element 302. For example, if the threaded part 330 is short, it may not be able to exert a large force on the elastomer element 302 compared to the longer one, which depends on the configuration of the adjuster accommodating portion 306. The kit may also include a torque wrench for attaching the threaded component 330 to the adjusting compartment 306. The torque wrench may include preset settings for different compression or performance levels.

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

The tip of the screw 430 is in contact with the cradle 408A that holds the back of the elastomer element 402. When the screw 430 is rotated, the lateral movement of the screw 430 moves the cradle 408 A closer or further away. Therefore, in some examples, the screw 430 extends substantially at right angles to the back surface 419 of the striking face 418. Since the cradle 408A holds the back surface portion of the elastomer element 402, the movement of the cradle 408A changes the compression of the elastomer element 402 with respect to the back surface surface 419 of the striking face 418. Thus, the compression of the elastomer element 402 may be adjusted by rotating the screw 430 via the screw drive 432, which is threaded in the golf club head 300 shown in FIGS. 3A-3B. This is the same as the operation of the component 330.

FIG. 4C shows a cross-sectional view of another example of a golf club head 400C having an elastomer element 402 and an adjusting mechanism for adjusting the compression of the elastomer element 402. The golf club head 400C is substantially similar to the golf club head 400A shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, where the golf club head 400C has a relatively small cradle (eg, FIGS. 4A-4B with a depth d). It has a depth D greater than the depth of the cradle 408B). The larger cradle 408C contains more elastomeric elements 402 than the smaller cradle. By enclosing a larger portion of the elastomer element 402, the cradle 408C further limits the deformation of the elastomer element 402 upon hitting the golf ball by the golf club head 400C. The limitation of deformation of the elastomer element 402 also limits the potential maximum deflection of the striking face 418, thus reducing the maximum ball velocity of the golf club head 400C while increasing velocity uniformity across the striking face 418. obtain. The large cradle 408C, with its maximum deflection, does not contact the back surface 419 of the striking face 418. The cradle 408C itself can be made of the same material as the rear 412, such as steel. The cradle 408C may also be made of titanium, composite material, ceramic, or various other materials.

The size of the cradle 408C may be selected based on the desired ball velocity characteristics. For example, the cradle 408C may surround about 25% or more of the volume of the elastomeric element 402, as shown in FIG. In another example, the cradle 408C may surround about 25% to 50% of the volume of the elastomeric element 402. In yet another example, the cradle 408C may surround about 10% to 25% or less than about 10% of the volume of the elastomeric element 402. In yet another example, the cradle 408C may surround more than 50% of the volume of the elastomeric element 402. For the portion of the elastomer element 402 surrounded by the cradle 408C, substantially the entire peripheral surface of the portion of the elastomer element 402 may be in contact with the inner surface of the recess 409 of the cradle 408C.

The connection between the cradle 408C and the adjustment driver 430 can also be seen more clearly in FIG. 4C. The tip of the adjustment driver 430 may be a flat surface and comes into contact with the back surface 407 of the cradle 408C. Therefore, as the adjustment driver 430 moves into the cavity 420, the cradle 408C and the elastomer element 402 are pushed towards the striking face 418. Conversely, as the adjustment driver 430 recedes from the cavity 420, the force applied by the compression of the elastomer element 402 causes the cradle 408 to maintain contact with the adjustment driver 430. In some embodiments, the surface of the tip of the screw 430 and / or the back surface of the cradle 408C may be lubricated, thereby preventing twisting of the cradle 408C. In another example, the tip of the adjustment driver 430 may be attached to the cradle 408C so that the cradle 408C twists with the rotation of the adjustment driver 430. In such an embodiment, the elastomer element 402 may be substantially cylindrical, conical, or spherical. In another example, the front surface of the elastomer element 402 in contact with the back surface 419 of the striking face 418 and / or the back surface 419 of the striking face 418 may be lubricated, thereby the back surface of the striking face 418. The elastomer element 402 can be rotated with respect to the surface 419.

Although the golf club heads 400A and 400C use a continuous sole 414 rather than a sole channel as in the golf club heads 300 of FIGS. 3A and 3B, as shown, other embodiments of the golf club heads 400A and 400C are May include sole channels. In addition, the golf club heads 400A and 400C may also be sold as a kit with multiple screws and / or torque wrenches, similar to the kit described above for the golf club head 300. Additional backplates may be added to the rear, but some of the screws may be left exposed for adjustment.

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

From the results in Table 1, a golf club head with an elastomer (Example 4) achieves a relatively high ball velocity from the center of the face, while the ball velocity from a hit near the toe or heel of the golf club. There is little loss.

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

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

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

From the results in Table 3, the material with the higher modulus retains the ball velocity well over the striking face, but loses the maximum ball velocity to impact at the center of the face. For some applications, a modulus range of elastic modulus of an elastomeric element of about 4 to about 15 GPa can be used. For other applications, the elastic modulus range of about 1 to about 40 or about 50 GPa of the elastomeric element can be used.

As mentioned above with reference to FIGS. 4A-4C, the size of the cradle can also affect the ball velocity. Elastomer elements made of 13 GPa material with smaller cradle, such as the cradle 408A of FIGS. 4A-4B, are about 0.2 mph relative to the central impact compared to the same club without the elastomer element. Loss is observed. Elastomer elements made from 13 GPa material with a larger cradle about 5 mm deep, such as the cradle 408C in FIG. 4C, have about 0. A loss of 4 mph is observed. In the case of an elastomer element made of 0.4 GPa material with a similar larger cradle, only about 0.2 mph loss is observed for central impact compared to the same club without elastomer element. ..

San Diego Plastics, Inc. of National City, California, offers several plastics with elastic moduli in the range of 2.6 GPa to 13 GPa, all of which are acceptable for use. These plastics also have a yield strength acceptable for use in the golf club heads considered herein. Table 4 shows some materials provided by San Diego Plastics and their elastic modulus and yield strength values.

The inclusion of an elastomer element also has the benefit of reducing the stress value generated by the striking face surface when colliding with a golf ball and thus improving the durability of the club face. FIG. 5A shows a stress contour diagram of a golf club head 500A that does not contain an elastomer element. FIG. 5B shows a stress contour diagram of a golf club head 500B with an elastomer element. In the golf club head 500A, the von Mises stress at the center of the face 502A is about 68% of the maximum von Mises stress generated at the bottom face edge 504A. Without the elastomeric element, the von Mises stress level is high, indicating that the club face may be susceptible to breakage and / or premature deterioration. In the golf club head 500B, in the case of an elastomer element having an elastic modulus of 0.41 GPa, the von Mises stress of the face near the edge of the elastomer element 502B is reduced by about 16%, and the maximum von Mises stress generated at the bottom face edge 504B is increased. It is reduced by about 18%. These von Mises stresses are still relatively high, but significantly reduced compared to those of the golf club head 500A. In a golf club head 500B having an elastomer element with an elastic modulus of about 13 GPa, the von Mises stress on the face near the edge of the elastomer element 502B is reduced by about 50% and the maximum von Mises stress generated at the bottom face edge 504B is about 56. %is decreasing. Such von Mises stress values indicate a more durable golf club head that is smaller and may be less likely to fail.

6A-6E show a golf club head 600 with an elastomer element 602. FIG. 6A shows a front view of the golf club head 600. FIG. 6B shows a side view of the golf club head 600 of FIG. 6A on the toe side. FIG. 6C shows a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of the golf club head 600 of FIG. 6A. FIG. 6D shows a perspective view of the golf club head 600 of FIG. 6A coordinated at right angles to the striking face 618. FIG. 6E shows a perspective view of the golf club head 600 of FIG. 6A coordinated at right angles to the striking face 618 including the supported area 642. The golf club head 600 includes a striking face 618 configured to hit the ball, a sole 605 located at the bottom of the golf club head 600, and a rear portion 612.

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

The elastomer element 602 is arranged between the striking face 618 and the rear portion 612. The striking face 618 includes a back surface 619. The front portion 603 of the elastomer element 602 comes into contact with the back surface 619 of the striking face 618. As shown in FIGS. 6C and 6E, the striking face 618 includes a supported region 642, i.e., a portion of the back surface 619 supported by the elastomeric element 602, which is defined as the region inside the supported region boundary 640. This supported region boundary is defined by the outer range of the anterior portion 603 of the elastomeric element 602 in contact with the back surface 619 of the striking face 618. The supported area 642 is shown hatched in FIG. 6E. The supported area 642 is normally not visible from the front of the golf club head 600, but has been added for illustration purposes.

The striking face 618 includes a striking face area 652, which is defined as the area inside the striking face perimeter 650 as shown in FIG. 6D. As shown in FIG. 6C, the perimeter of the striking face is defined by an upper limit 654 and a lower limit 656. The upper limit 654 is located at the intersection of a substantially flat back surface 619 and an upper radius 655 extending to the top line of the golf club head 600. The lower limit 656 is located at the intersection of a substantially flat back surface 619 and a lower radius 657 extending to the sole 605 of the golf club head 600. The circumference of the striking face is also defined in the toe of the golf club head 600 (not shown in the cross section) (658). The heel portion around the striking face is defined by a plane 659, which extends parallel to the y-axis and the x-axis and extends from the most heeled range of the scoreline 660 formed on the striking face 618 to the heel. It is off by 1 mm (mm). In FIG. 6D, the striking face region 652 is shown by hatching. Boundaries 654, 656 around the striking face are projected onto the striking face 618 for ease of illustration and understanding.

A plurality of golf club heads very similar to the golf club head 600 described herein can be included in the set, and each golf club head has a different loft α. Each golf club head may also have additional variable features, which may include, for example, MOI-Y, striking face area, area of supported area, and unsupported face percentage. The unsupported face percentage is calculated by dividing the area of the supported area by the area of the striking face, multiplying by 100%, and subtracting it from 100%. An example of a set of iron-type golf club heads is included in Table 5 below. The set in Table 5 includes lofts 21, 24, 27, and 30. Other sets may include a larger number of golf club heads and / or a wider range of loft α values, or may include a smaller number of golf club heads and / or a smaller range of loft α values. Further, the set may include one or more golf club heads that include an elastomeric element and one or more golf club heads that do not contain an elastomeric element.

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

If all other characteristics are kept constant, the higher the MOI-Y value, the higher the ball velocity of the off-center hit. In clubs with a small MOI-Y, the larger the unsupported face percentage, the less the slowdown of the off-center ball. By supporting the faces with a smaller percentage, more faces can flex during impact, increasing the velocity of the off-center ball. Therefore, in the golf club set of the present invention described in Table 5 above, MOI-Y increases throughout the set as loft α increases, and the unsupported face percentage decreases throughout the set as loft α increases. .. This relationship provides an off-core ball velocity consistency through a set of golf clubs.

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

More specific features of the embodiments described herein will be described below. In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be larger than 30 mm ² . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be larger than 40 mm ² . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be larger than 60 mm ² . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be larger than 65 mm ² . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be larger than 70 mm ² . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be larger than 73 mm ² .

In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than 140 mm ² . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than 1300 mm ² . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than 120 mm ² . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than 110 mm ² . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than 100 mm ² . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than 90 mm ² . .. In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than 85 mm ² . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than 80 mm ² . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than 75 mm ² .

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

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

7A-10 show a golf club head 700 with an elastomer element 702. FIG. 7A shows a perspective view of the golf club head 700. FIG. 7B shows an additional perspective view of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 7A. FIG. 7C shows a rear view of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 7A. FIG. 8A shows a sectional view taken along the line BB of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 7C. FIG. 8B shows a CC sectional view of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 7C. 8C shows a DD cross-sectional view D of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 7C. 9A shows an additional perspective view of the front of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 7A, excluding the striking face. 9B shows a cross-sectional view of FIG. 9A, with the elastomeric element removed. FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 7A, which is oriented at right angles to the striking face 718 including the supported region 742. It should be noted that although the golf club head 700 shown in FIGS. 7A-10 is an iron type cavity back golf club, the device described herein is similarly applicable to other types of golf club heads. sea bream.

The golf club head 700 includes a deformable member 702 disposed between the striking face 718 and the rear portion 712. In one embodiment, the deformable member 702 is formed of an elastomer. The front portion 703 of the elastomer element 702 is in contact with the back surface 719 of the striking face 718. The striking face 718 includes a supported region 742, i.e., a portion supported by the elastomer element 702 of the back surface 719, which is the outside of the anterior portion 703 of the elastomer element 702 in contact with the back surface 719 of the striking face 718. It is defined as the area inside the 740 perimeter of the supported area defined by the range. Although the supported area 742 would normally not be visible from the front of the golf club head 700, FIG. 10 has been added for convenience of explanation.

The golf club head 700 shown in FIGS. 7A to 10 has a cavity back structure and includes a peripheral portion 701 that surrounds the striking face 718 and extends rearward. Peripheral portion 701 includes sole 705, toe 706, and top line 707. The peripheral portion 701 may include a weight pad 710. The golf club head 700 also includes a rear portion 712 configured to support the elastomeric element 702.

The rear portion 712 includes a cantilever support arm 762 fixed to the peripheral portion 701. The support arm 762 can include a cradle 708 configured to hold the elastomer element 702 in place. The cradle 708 can include a lip 709 configured to position the elastomer element 702 on the cradle 708 with respect to the striking face 718. The lip 709 can enclose a portion of the elastomer element 702. In addition, an adhesive can be used between the elastomer and the cradle 708 to secure the elastomer element 702 to the cradle 708.

The support arm 762 extends from the weight pad 710 located at the intersection of the sole 705 of the peripheral portion 701 and the toe 706 toward the supported region 742. The support arm 762 is oriented substantially parallel to the back surface 719 of the striking face 718. The support arm 762 can include a rib 764 for increasing the rigidity of the support arm 762. The rib 764 can extend rearward from the support arm 762 substantially perpendicular to the back surface 719 of the striking face 718. The advantage of the cantilever support arm 762 is that it provides a lower CG height than an alternative beam design as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 4A, where both ends are supported by a perimeter.

To provide a low CG height, the support arm 762 is cantilevered, which means that it is only fixed to the periphery 701 at one end of the support arm 762. In the support arm, the distance H between the highest portion of the support arm 762 and the ground plane GP when the golf club head 700 is placed at the address position is minimized as shown in FIG. 8C, yet the elastomer element 702 is provided. Designed for optimal positioning. In one embodiment, H is 50 mm or less. In other embodiments, H is less than 45 mm. In another embodiment, H is 40 mm or less. In another embodiment, H is 35 mm or less. In another embodiment, H is 30 mm or less. In another embodiment, H is 29 mm or less. In another embodiment, H is 28 mm or less.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The rib 764 of the support arm 762 can have a rib thickness RT measured perpendicular to the back surface 719 of the striking face 718. The rib thickness RT can vary along the length of the rib. In one embodiment, the rib thickness RT of at least a part of the rib is 2 mm or more. In another embodiment, the rib thickness RT of at least a part of the rib is 3 mm or more. In another embodiment, the rib thickness RT of at least a part of the rib is 4 mm or more. In another embodiment, the rib thickness RT of at least a part of the rib is 5 mm or more. In another embodiment, the rib thickness RT of at least a part of the rib is 6 mm or more.

As shown in FIG. 10, the supported region 742 is positioned on the back surface surface 719 of the striking face 718. The striking face heel reference plane 759 extends parallel to the y-axis and the x-axis, and is located 1 mm away from the most heel side of the scoreline 760 formed on the striking face 718 toward the heel. The geometric center 743 of the supported region 742 is in the toe direction from the striking face heel reference plane 759, which is measured parallel to the ground plane GP and parallel to the striking face 718 when the golf club head 700 is in the address position. The supported region is offset by the offset length SROL. In one embodiment, the supported region offset length SROL is 20 mm or more. In another embodiment, the supported region offset length SROL is 22 mm or more. In another embodiment, the supported region offset length SROL is 24 mm or more. In another embodiment, the supported region offset length SROL is 26 mm or more. In another embodiment, the supported region offset length SROL is 27 mm or more. In another embodiment, the supported region offset length SROL is 28 mm or more.

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

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

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

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

FIG. 11B shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head 700 including another embodiment of the elastomer element 702. The elastomer element 702 of FIG. 11B is circular. The front diameter FD is larger than the back diameter RD of the elastomer element 702 shown in FIG. 11B. The rear portion 744 of the elastomer element 702 in contact with the cradle 708 comprises a back support area 747, which has an area.

FIG. 11C shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head 700 including another embodiment of the elastomer element 702. The elastomer element 702 of FIG. 11C is circular. The front diameter FD is larger than the back diameter RD of the elastomer element 702 shown in FIG. 11C.

FIG. 11D shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head 700 including another embodiment of the elastomer element 702. The elastomer element 702 of FIG. 11D is circular. The front diameter FD is larger than the back diameter RD of the elastomer element 702 shown in FIG. 11D. Further, the rear portion 744 comprises a constant diameter region 745 behind the tapered region 746 extending towards the striking face 718. In one embodiment, the back surface diameter RD is about 12.5 mm and the front surface diameter FD is about 18.5 mm.

The expanded anterior portion 703 provided by the embodiments of the elastomer element 702 shown in FIGS. 11B, 11C, and 11D, and thus the expanded supported area 742, has advantages. These advantages include a more stable off-center ball velocity reduction, especially sound energy above 3800 Hz.

In one embodiment, the area of the supported area can be larger than 75 mm2. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be larger than 100 square millimeters. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be larger than 125 mm2. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be larger than 150 mm2. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be larger than 175 mm2. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be larger than 200 mm2. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be larger than 225 mm2. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be larger than 250 square millimeters. In another embodiment, the area of the supported area can be larger than 255 mm 2. In another embodiment, the area of the supported area can be larger than 260 mm ² . In a further embodiment, the area of the supported area can be greater than 50mm2 and less than 1000mm2. In a further embodiment, the area of the supported area can be greater than 100 mm2 and less than 1000 mm2. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than 150mm2 and less than 1000mm2. In a further embodiment, the area of the supported area can be greater than 200mm2 and less than 1000mm2. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than 250 mm2 and less than 1000 mm2.

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

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

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

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

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

As shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the dominant frequency of the cylindrical elastomer element 702 of FIG. 11A is 4,279.7 Hz. As shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, the dominant frequency of the tapered elastomer element 702 of FIG. 11D is 4317.4 Hz. Generally, when an iron-type golf club head hits a golf ball, the frequency of sound produced at an acoustic frequency between about 1,000 Hz and 3,800 Hz by the interaction between the golf club and the golf ball and the resonance of the golf ball. However, acoustic frequencies above about 3,800 Hz are produced only by the golf club head. Therefore, the first sound power peak in the sound power estimation graphs of FIGS. 12B and 13B mainly correlates with the golf ball, and the subsequent sound power peaks correlate with the vibration of the striking face of the golf club head. As shown in FIGS. 12B and 13B, the peak acoustic power estimate below 3,800 Hz for a golf ball is approximately 1.00 × 10 ^-3 watts. As shown in FIG. 12B, the sound power generated by a golf club head utilizing the example of the cylindrical elastomer element shown in FIG. 11A peaks at about ^1.40x10-3 watts. As shown in FIG. 13B, the sound power produced by a golf club head utilizing the example of the tapered elastomer element shown in FIG. 11D peaks at about ^1.04x10-3 watts. The sound power level directly correlates with the loudness of the sound produced by the golf club hitting the golf ball. Therefore, the sound produced by the golf club head utilizing the example of the cylindrical elastomer element shown in FIG. 11A is produced by the golf club head utilizing the example of the tapered elastomer element shown in FIG. 11D. Remarkably smaller than the sound.

Further, the sound power generated by the golf club head utilizing the example of the cylindrical elastomer element shown in FIG. 11A divided by the sound power generated by the golf ball is about 1.40. The sound power generated by the golf club head utilizing the example of the cylindrical elastomer element shown in FIG. 11D divided by the sound power generated by the golf ball is about 1.04. In some embodiments, the sound power generated by the golf club head divided by the sound power generated by the golf ball is preferably less than 1.50. In some embodiments, the sound power generated by the golf club head divided by the sound power generated by the golf ball is preferably less than 1.40. In some embodiments, the sound power generated by the golf club head divided by the sound power generated by the golf ball is preferably less than 1.30. In some embodiments, the sound power generated by the golf club head divided by the sound power generated by the golf ball is preferably less than 1.20. In some embodiments, the sound power generated by the golf club head divided by the sound power generated by the golf ball is preferably less than 1.10. In some embodiments, the sound power generated by the golf club head divided by the sound power generated by the golf ball is preferably less than 1.00.

14A-L show another embodiment of the elastomeric element 702, also referred to as the deformable element. These examples are designed with variable compressive stiffness, spring constant, or flexural modulus. This can be achieved by combining different shapes and different co-molding materials from different durometers.

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

FIG. 14G shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomer element 702 similar to FIG. 14A but with the center of the front portion 703 offset from the center of the rear portion 744. The deviation may be directed to the top line, sole, toe, heel, or any combination thereof. FIG. 14H shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomer element 702 similar to that of FIG. 14A but with the center of the front portion 703 offset from the center of the rear portion 744. FIG. 14I shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomer element 702 similar to FIG. 14A but with the center of the front portion 703 offset from the center of the rear portion 744. FIG. 14J shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomer element 702 whose diameter is reduced between the front portion 703 and the rear portion 744. FIG. 14K shows a cross-sectional view of the elastomeric element 702 with a reduced diameter between the front portion 703 and the rear portion 744. FIG. 14L shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomer element 702 similar to that of FIG. 14A but comprising a first material 770 and a second material 780.

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

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

As shown in FIGS. 15D and 16, the golf club head 800 includes a striking face 818 with a back surface 819. The golf club head 800 also includes a rear portion 812 configured to support the elastomeric element 702. The golf club head 800 is manufactured in a hollow body configuration and the rear portion 812 covers a substantial portion of the rear of the golf club head 800. The rear portion 812 is positioned behind the striking face 818 and extends from the heel 804 to the toe 806 between the top line 807 and the sole 805 to form a cavity 820. The elastomer element 702 is disposed within the cavity 820. As shown in FIG. 15D, the striking face 818 may be formed separately and welded to the rest of the golf club head 800. More specifically, the separately formed striking face portion includes a part of the sole and can form an L-shaped striking face portion. In another embodiment, the striking face 818 may be formed integrally with the rest of the golf club.

The golf club head 800 includes an adjustment driver 830 that is very similar to the adjustment driver 330 described above and shown in FIGS. 3A-3C. The golf club head 800 also includes a deformable member 702 disposed between the striking face 818 and the adjustment driver 830. The deformable member 702 can take any form of the elastomeric element described herein. The adjustment driver 830 is configured to hold the elastomer element 702 between the adjustment driver 830 and the striking face 818, the front portion 703 of the elastomer element 702 is in contact with the back surface surface 819 of the striking face 818, and the elastomer element 702 The rear portion 744 of the is in contact with the adjustment driver 830. The tuning driver can include an interface 834 configured to hold the elastomeric element 702. The interface 834 can include a recess having a lip 809 that surrounds at least a portion of the elastomeric element 702 as shown in FIGS. 15 and 17A-17E.

The golf club head 800 can include an adjustment unit accommodating unit 890 that closely resembles the adjustment receiving unit 306 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. As shown in FIG. 16, the adjusting portion accommodating portion 890 can include an opening formed in the rear portion 812 of the golf club head 800. The opening can include a threaded portion 893. As shown in FIG. 15D, the adjusting unit accommodating unit 890 may include an accommodating unit shelf 895 that engages when the adjusting unit accommodating unit 830 is attached to the adjusting unit accommodating unit 890. The adjustment driver 830 may include a threaded portion 833 configured to engage the threaded portion 893 of the adjusting portion accommodating portion 890, as shown in FIGS. 15D and 17A-17E. Further, the adjustment driver 830 may include a flange 835 configured to engage the accommodation shelves 895 of the adjustment accommodation 890 when the adjustment driver 830 is attached to the adjustment accommodation 890. The housing shelves 895 and flange 835 ensure that the elastomeric elements engage properly and consistently with the back surface 819 of the striking face 818, providing the necessary support for optimum performance. Although the adjustment driver 330 described above is configured to be adjustable after assembly, preferred embodiments of the adjustment driver 830 shown in FIGS. 15A-15D and 17A-17E are mounted in set positions during assembly. , Is configured to stay in that position. The housing shelves 895 and flange 835 are where the adjustment driver 830 is consistently installed and the elastomeric elements properly and consistently engage the back surface 819 of the striking face 818 to provide the support required for optimum performance. Helps to guarantee. The adjustment driver 830 may also include a screw drive 832 configured to accept the tool and rotate the adjustment driver 830 with respect to the golf club head 800. Finally, the adjustment driver 830 can have mass. In some embodiments, the mass of the golf club head can be adjusted by replacing the adjustment driver 830 with another adjustment driver 830 having a different mass. Mass differences can be achieved by using different materials for different adjustment drivers such as aluminum, brass, polymers, steel, titanium and tungsten. In another embodiment not shown, a mass member is added to the adjustment driver to change the mass. In one embodiment, a mass member can be added to the recess of the adjustment driver. In addition, the mass member added to the recess can be used to change the distance between the rear portion of the elastomer element and the back surface of the striking face to change the compression of the elastomer element.

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

As shown in FIGS. 18-22, in, the golf club head 900 includes a striking face 918 with a back surface 919. The golf club head 900 also includes a rear portion 912 configured to support the first deformable member 702A and the second deformable member 702B. The first deformable member 702A may be the same as the above-mentioned elastomer element (deformable member). The first deformable member 702A and the second deformable member 702B may each adopt any form of the elastomer element described herein. They may have the same shape or different shapes. The golf club head 900 is made of a hollow structure and the rear portion 912 covers a significant portion of the rear portion of the golf club head 900. The rear portion 912 is located behind the striking face 918 and extends from the heel 904 to the toe 906 between the top line 917 and the sole 905 to form the cavity 920. In a preferred illustrated embodiment, the first deformable member 702A is separated from the second deformable member 702B and is not in contact with the second deformable member 702B. In an alternative embodiment, the first deformable member 702A may be in close and spaced contact with the second deformable member 702B.

The golf club head 900, like the golf club head 800, includes an adjustment driver 830 configured to hold the first deformable member 702A. The front portion 703A of the first deformable member 702A comes into contact with the back surface surface 919 of the striking face 918. The rear portion 912 of the golf club head 900 includes a rear cover 913. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear cover 913 includes a recess 915. The front portion 703B of the second deformable member 702B is configured to hold the second deformable member 702B so as to come into contact with the back surface surface 919 of the striking face 918. The rear cover 913 also includes an opening 914 for the adjustment driver 830. In one implementation, the second deformable member is attached to the rear cover 913 with an adhesive. Further, the rear cover 913 can be attached to the rest of the golf club head 900 with an adhesive, for example double-sided tape. In one embodiment, the striking face 918 of the golf club head 900 is made of a high density material such as steel, while the rear cover 913 is made of a low density material such as plastic, which is acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. May be included. In an alternative embodiment, the rear cover may also be made of high density material.

As shown in FIG. 22, the striking face includes a plurality of supported areas. The first supported region 742A is formed by a portion of the back surface 919 of the striking face 918 supported by the first deformable member 702A, which is the first deformation in contact with the back surface 919 of the striking face 918. It is defined by the inner region of the first supported region perimeter 740A, which is defined by the outer range of the anterior portion 703A of the possible member 702A. The second supported region 742B is formed by a portion of the back surface 919 of the striking face 918 supported by the second deformable member 702B, which is in contact with the back surface 919 of the striking face 918. It is defined by the inner region of the second supported region perimeter 740B, which is defined by the outer range of the anterior portion 703B of the possible member 702B. The first supported region 742A and the second supported region 742B are normally not visible from the front of the golf club head 900, but have been added to FIG. 22 for convenience of explanation.

The first geometric center 743A of the first supported region 742A is located offset from the striking face heel reference surface 959 by the offset length SROL1 in the toe direction. However, the measurement is performed by arranging the golf club head 900 at the address position, parallel to the ground and parallel to the striking face 918. The second geometric center 743B of the second supported region 742B is located offset from the striking face heel reference surface 959 in the toe direction by the second supported region offset length SROL2. However, the measurement is performed by arranging the golf club head 900 at the address position, parallel to the ground and parallel to the striking face 918.

In a preferred embodiment, ROLL1 is about 36.0 mm and ROLL2 is about 17.6 mm. In a preferred embodiment, ROLL1 is larger than ROLL2. In a preferred embodiment, ROLL1 divided by ROLL2 is greater than 1.0. In a preferred embodiment, ROLL1 divided by ROLL2 is greater than 1.25. In a preferred embodiment, ROLL1 divided by ROLL2 is greater than 1.50. In a preferred embodiment, ROLL1 divided by ROLL2 is greater than 1.75. In a preferred embodiment, ROLL1 divided by ROLL2 is greater than 2.0. In an alternative embodiment not shown, ROLL2 is larger than ROLL1 although not shown.

In one embodiment, the first deformable member 702A is made of the same material as the second deformable member 702B and therefore has the same hardness. In another embodiment, the first deformable member 702A is made of a material having a higher hardness than the material of the second deformable member 702B. In an alternative embodiment, the material of the first deformable member 702A has a lower modulus of elasticity than the material of the second deformable member 702B. In one embodiment, the first deformable member 702A has a shore A50 durometer and the second deformable member has a shore A10 durometer. In one embodiment, the first deformable member 702A has a shore A durometer greater than 25 and the second deformable member has a shore A durometer less than 25.

The first deformable member may be housed, structured or supported like the second deformable member, and the second deformable member may be housed, structured or supported like the first deformable member. Or note that it may be supported. Further, the first deformable member and the second deformable member may be accommodated, structured or supported by any method described herein.

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

Additional embodiments of golf club heads incorporating various damping elements are described below, many of which apply to the back surface of the striking face. The damping elements described below may include any of the deformable members or elastomers described herein, including their materials, properties, shapes, and features, as well as additional details described below. The damping element helps the golf club head reduce the vibrations that occur when hitting a golf ball and improve the sound by making the golfer's ears more comfortable.

26-33 show an additional embodiment of a golf club head 700 with a first damping element 702A and a second damping element 702D. FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of the golf club head 700. 27 shows a side view of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 26. 28 shows cross-sectional views H to H of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 26, which lacks the weight member 710, the second damping element 702D, and the first damping element 702A. 29 shows cross-sectional views H to H of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 26, in which the weight member 710 and the second damping element 702D are missing. FIG. 30 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 26, which lacks the weight member 710. FIG. 31 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 32 shows a cross-sectional view I-I of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 27, which lacks the weight member 710. 33 shows a cross-sectional view JJ of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 27. 34 and 35 show perspective views of the first damping element 702A and the second damping element 702D. 36 and 37 show perspective views of the second damping element 702D.

The golf club head 700 shown in FIGS. 26-33 is an iron having a cavity back structure, including a peripheral portion 701 that surrounds the striking face 718 and extends rearward from the striking face 718. Peripheral portion 701 includes sole 705, toe 706, and top line 707. The peripheral portion 701 may also include a weight member 710. The peripheral portion may also include a rear portion 712 that can partially surround the cavity 720, as shown in FIG. In other embodiments, the posterior portion may substantially enclose the cavity, as shown in FIG. 15A. The peripheral portion 701 of the golf club head 700 may include a cantilever support arm attached to the sole 705 and extending from the sole 705. As shown in FIG. 28, the support arm 762 may extend substantially parallel to the striking face 718. As shown in FIG. 29, the golf club head 700 may include a first damping element 702A disposed between the back surface 719 of the striking face 718 and the cantilever support arm 762. As shown in FIG. 26, the first damping element 702A includes a front surface 703A that contacts the central portion of the striking face 718. As described above, the damping element 702A can support the striking face 718 and provide damping characteristics. In another embodiment, the posterior portion may substantially surround the cavity, as shown in FIG. 15A. In such an embodiment, the first damping element may be placed between the back and rear of the striking face.

As shown in FIGS. 26 and 30-33, the golf club head may include a second damping element 702D, which in FIGS. 34 and 35 together with the first damping element 702A. Shown and shown alone in FIGS. 36 and 37. As shown, a portion of the second damping element 702D may be disposed between the back surface 719 of the striking face 718 and the support arm 762. The second damping element 702D may be located further away from the geometric center of the striking face 718 as compared to the first damping element 702A. More specifically, the second damping element 702D may be located near the sole 705. The second damping element 702D includes a front surface 703B that contacts the back surface 719 of the striking face 718 and a back surface 781 that contacts the support arm 762. The second damping element 702D may include a toe portion 782 extending forward of the support arm 762. The second damping element 702D may include a heel portion 783 extending in the heel direction of the support arm 762. The second damping element 702D may include a rear portion 784, which extends around the support arm 762 and forms a cavity 785 configured to receive the support arm. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 705, the golf club head may be spaced behind the support arm and include a weight member 710, the rear portion 784 of the second damping element 702D. , May be disposed between the weight member 710 and the support arm 762. The weight member 710 may be a different material formed integrally with another portion of the golf club head 700 or coupled to the golf club head 700. The second damping element 702D may include a relief 786 formed on the top of the first damping element 702A and configured to complement the shape of the first damping element 702A. The second damping element 702D is deformable and can be formed of an elastomeric material that provides damping properties. In one embodiment, the first damping element 702A has a higher elastic modulus than the second damping element 702D. In an alternative embodiment, the second damping element 702D has a higher elastic modulus than the first damping element 702A. In yet another embodiment, the first damping element 702A has a modulus of elasticity substantially similar to that of the second damping element 702D.

In addition to the materials already disclosed, the damping element, more specifically the second damping element 702D, may have a damping foam. In one embodiment, the second damping element 702D may be formed separately from the golf club head and subsequently mounted. In another embodiment, the second damping element 702D can be co-molded with the golf club head to specifically fit the shape of that particular club. In other embodiments, the second damping element 702D may be specially selected or formed to satisfy a particular shape of a particular golf club head.

In an alternative embodiment, although not shown, the first damping element 702A and the second damping element 702D are simply such that a single damping element includes the characteristics of both the first and second damping elements. It may be monolithically formed from one piece of material. In yet another embodiment, the plurality of material pieces may have a first and / or second damping element.

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

The golf club head 700 shown in FIGS. 38-43 has a first damping element 702A similar to that previously described and shown in FIGS. 26-33 and a golf club shown in FIGS. 26-33. It includes an embodiment of a second damping element 702E that is different from the head. The second damping element 702E can be attached to the back surface 719 of the striking face 718. In some embodiments, the second damping element 702E can be secured to the striking face via an adhesive 711. The adhesive 711 may be a double-sided tape such as a 3M very high adhesive tape, an epoxy, an adhesive, or a mechanical adhesive such as a fastener, rivet, backing plate. As shown, at least a portion of the second damping element 702E can be placed below the first damping element 702A. The second damping element 702E can extend in the toe direction of the first damping element 702A and in the heel direction of the first damping element 702A, substantially from heel 704 to toe 706, as shown in FIG. You can extend it. The second damping element 702E may have a relief configured to complement the shape of the first damping element 702A. In an alternative embodiment, the second damping element 702E can cover most of the back surface 719 of the striking face 718, which is not covered by the first damping element 702A.

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

The golf club head 700 of FIGS. 38-43 also includes a medallion 790 that improves the appearance of the golf club head 700. Further, the medallion 790 can improve the damping quality of the golf club head 700. In FIGS. 38, 40, 41, and 42, the first portion 791 of the medallion 790 is adhered to the back surface 719 of the striking face 718, and the second portion 792 is separated from the striking face 718 and the back surface of the support arm 762. Extends backwards at. In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 41 and 42, a third damping element 702F is disposed between the back surface of the support arm 762 and the medallion 790.

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

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

One goal of the damping factor described herein is to dissipate the energy of the golf club head after hitting the golf ball. When the hitting face and other parts of a golf club head vibrate, damping elements in contact with their surface can dissipate energy. This can change the sound produced by the golf club head by reducing the loudness and / or duration of the sound produced when the golf club head hits the golf ball. The damping elements, elastomers, and deformable members described herein can be made of viscoelastic material. Tan δ represents the ratio of the viscous response to the elastic response of the viscoelastic material, which is the energy dissipation potential of the viscoelastic material. The larger Tan δ, the higher the dissipative property of the material. More specifically, Tan δ = E "/ E', where E" is the loss modulus and represents the energy dissipated by the system, and E'is the storage modulus and is elastic by the system. Represents the energy stored in. Tan δ depends on the temperature and the frequency of vibration. The damping element described herein is preferably formed from a viscoelastic material having a peak Tan δ between 3 kHz and 9 kHz, more preferably between 5 kHz and 7 kHz within a temperature range of 200 ° C to 500 ° C. In some embodiments, the damping element may be made of various viscoelastic materials, where one damping element has a Tan δ that peaks at a higher frequency than the other. In particular, with reference to the golf club heads 700 of FIGS. 26-37, the first damping element 702A is formed of the first viscoelastic material and the second damping element 702D is formed of the second viscoelastic material. Tan δ of the viscoelastic material 1 reaches a peak at the first frequency and Tan δ of the second viscoelastic material at the second frequency, and the first frequency is lower than the second frequency. With this particular configuration, the first damping element can better dampen the vibration of the striking face and the second damping element can better dampen the vibration of the support arm.

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

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

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

As shown in FIGS. 54-57, the damping element 1002 includes an external portion 1103 and a damping portion 1104. The external portion 1103 is mainly behind the rear portion 1012 of the golf club head 1000. The damping portion 1104 is mainly in the golf cavity 1020. The club head 1000 is configured to be adjacent to the back surface 1019 of the striking face 1018, as shown in FIGS. 48-50. The channel 1105 is formed between the outer portion 1103 and the damping portion 1104, and the channel 1105 is configured to engage the shelf 1014 of the rear portion 1012 of the golf club head 1000. In FIGS. 48, 49, 55, and 57, the damping element 1002 can include a recess formed inside the damping portion 1104 and extending to the outer portion 1103. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the damping element 1002 may not include the recess 1106.

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

As shown in FIGS. 48-50, at least a portion of the damping portion 1104 of the damping element 1002 is between the shelf 1014 and the back surface 1019 of the striking face 1018 and is in contact with both the shelf 1014 and the back surface. As shown in FIG. 58, the damping portion 1104 of the damping element 1002 includes a front surface 1109 configured to be adjacent to the back surface 1019 of the striking face 1018 and a back surface 1110 configured to be adjacent to the shelf 1014. be able to.

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

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

In one embodiment, the central unsupported area 1016 can be larger than 100 mm ² . In other embodiments, the central unsupported area 1016 can be larger than 200 mm ² . In yet another embodiment, the central unsupported area 1016 can be larger than 300 mm ² . In other embodiments, the central unsupported area 1016 can be larger than 400 mm ² . In other embodiments, the central unsupported area 1016 can be larger than 500 mm ² . In one embodiment, the support area 1015 may be less than 300 mm ² . In one embodiment, the support area 1015 may be less than 250 mm ² . In other embodiments, the support area 1015 may be less than 200 mm ² . In other embodiments, the support area 1015 may be less than 150 mm ² . In another embodiment, the support area 1015 may be less than 125 mm ² . In other embodiments, the support area 1015 may be less than 100 mm ² . In one embodiment, the ratio of the central non-supported area 1016 divided by the supported area 1015 is 1.0 or greater. In another embodiment, the ratio of the central non-supported area 1016 divided by the supported area 1015 is 1.5 or greater. In one embodiment, the ratio of the central non-supported area 1016 divided by the supported area 1015 is 2.0 or greater. In one embodiment, the ratio of the central non-supported area 1016 divided by the supported area 1015 is 2.5 or greater. In one embodiment, the ratio of the central non-supported area 1016 divided by the supported area 1015 is 3.0 or greater. In one embodiment, the ratio of the central non-supported area 1016 divided by the supported area 1015 is 3.5 or greater. In one embodiment, the ratio of the central non-supported area 1016 divided by the supported area 1015 is 4.0 or greater. In one embodiment, the ratio of the central non-supported area 1016 divided by the supported area 1015 is 4.5 or greater. In one embodiment, the ratio of the central non-supported area 1016 divided by the supported area 1015 is 5.0 or greater.

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

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

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

In one embodiment, the golf club head 1000 includes a fifth damping element 1150. The golf club head may include a slot configured to accommodate a fifth damping element 1150, which is preferably rubber. In one embodiment, the slot can be formed in the rear portion 1112 of the golf club head. In another embodiment, the slot can be formed by one or more of the rear portion 1112, top line 1007, toe 1006, sole 1005.

FIG. 61 shows an additional cross section of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. 59, which includes a golf club shaft 1089 and a sixth damping element 1160. The hosel 1098 of the golf club head includes a hosel bore 1099 configured to accommodate the shaft 1089. In one embodiment, the hoselbore 1099 can also accept a sixth damping element 1160. It can take the form of a plug as shown in FIG.

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

As shown in FIGS. 62-65, the golf club head 800 includes a striking face 818 with a rear surface 819. The golf club head 800 also includes a rear portion 812 configured to support the deformable member 702. The golf club head 800 is made of a hollow body structure. The rear portion 812 covers a significant portion of the rear portion of the golf club head 800. The rear portion 812 is located behind the striking face 818 and extends between the top line 807 and the sole 805 to form a cavity 820 from heel to toe. The deformable member 702 is arranged in the cavity 820.

The rear portion of the golf club head 800 includes an adjustment driver 830. The deformable member 702 is arranged between the striking face 818 and the adjustment driver 830. The adjustment driver 830 is configured to hold the elastomer element 702 between the adjustment driver 830 and the striking face 818, with the front portion 703 of the elastomer element 702 in contact with the rear surface 819 of the striking face 818 and the rear portion 744 of the elastomer element 702. Is in contact with the adjusting driver 830.

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

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

As shown in FIG. 64, the deformable member 702 can include a first material 770 and a second material 780. Multi-material deformable members have been described with reference to FIGS. 14D, 14E, and 14Lwo. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 64, the first material 770 is in contact with the back surface 819 of the striking face 818 and the second material 780 is in contact with the adjustment driver 830. In one embodiment, the first material can have a higher hardness than the second material. In another embodiment, the second material can have a higher hardness than the first material. In a preferred embodiment, the first material can have a shore A hardness value lower than the shore A hardness value of the second material. In a more preferred embodiment, the first material can have a shore A hardness value of less than 50 and the second material can have a shore A hardness value of greater than 15. In a more preferred embodiment, the first material can have a shore A hardness value of less than 40 and the second material can have a shore A hardness value of greater than 25. In a more preferred embodiment, the first material can have a shore A hardness value of less than 30, and the second material can have a shore A hardness value of greater than 35. In a more preferred embodiment, the first material can have a shore A hardness value of less than 20, and the second material can have a shore A hardness value of greater than 40. In a more preferred embodiment, the first material can have a shore A hardness value of less than 15, and the second material can have a shore A hardness value of greater than 45. By including multiple materials, not only can the face be supported and the coefficient of restitution changed, but additional benefits can be achieved, including reduced vibration for a better feel and sound.

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

One method of utilizing the embodiments described herein is outlined in FIG. During the construction of the golf club head 800, the target coefficient of restitution of the golf club head can be specified (1211), then the deformable member configuration that realizes the target coefficient of restitution value can be selected (1212), and the selected deformable member configuration can be selected. Can be mounted on the golf club head (1213), then optionally the coefficient of restitution of the golf club head can be tested and the deformable member configuration 1214 can be modified as needed (1214), and then as required. The previous step can be repeated accordingly (1215). Alternatively, instead of using the coefficient of restitution as the measured and targeted value of the golf club head, a characteristic time can be used, which is similar to the coefficient of restitution but is easier to measure. ..

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

Although specific examples and aspects have been described here and specific examples have been shown, the scope of the present invention is not limited to those specific examples and examples. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize other embodiments or improvements that are consistent with the scope and intent of the invention. Therefore, a particular structure, operation, or medium is disclosed only as an exemplary embodiment. The scope of the present invention is defined by the appended utility model registration claims and any equivalents.

702 Deformable member 703 Front 745 Constant diameter area 770 First material 780 Second material 800 Golf club head 805 Sole 807 Top line 812 Rear 818 Hitting face 819 Back surface 820 Cavity 830 Adjustment driver 890 Adjustment receiver

Claims (15)

At the golf club head
A club head body having a rear portion, a striking face, and an internal cavity formed between the rear portion and the striking face, wherein the striking face is a front surface configured to hit a golf ball and said. The club head body, which has a back surface opposite to the front surface, and the rear portion thereof is separated from the back surface of the striking face.
It has a deformable member arranged between the rear portion and the back surface of the striking face.
The deformable member has a front surface that contacts the back surface of the striking face.
The deformable member has a back surface that contacts the rear portion and has a back surface.
The deformable member has a free thickness between the front surface of the deformable member and the back surface of the deformable member.
The deformable member has a mounting thickness between the front surface of the deformable member and the back surface of the deformable member.
A golf club head characterized in that the free thickness is at least 5% larger than the mounting thickness. The golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the free thickness is at least 10% larger than the mounting thickness. The golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the free thickness is at least 15% larger than the mounting thickness. The golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the free thickness is at least 20% larger than the mounting thickness. The golf club head according to claim 1, wherein an opening is formed through the rear portion, an adjustment driver is arranged in the opening, and the back surface of the deformable member contacts the adjustment driver. The golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the adjustment driver includes a spacer that abuts on the back surface of the deformable member. The deformable member is composed of a first material that abuts on the striking face and a second material that abuts on the rear portion, and the shore A hardness of the second material is the shore A of the first material. The golf club head according to claim 1, which is larger than the hardness. The golf club head according to claim 7, wherein the shore A hardness of the first material is less than 30, and the shore A hardness of the second material is larger than 35. At the golf club head
A club head body having a rear portion, a striking face, and an internal cavity formed between the rear portion and the striking face, wherein the striking face is a front surface configured to hit a golf ball and said. The club head body, which has a back surface opposite to the front surface, and the rear portion thereof is separated from the back surface of the striking face.
It has a deformable member arranged between the rear portion and the back surface of the striking face.
The deformable member has a front surface that contacts the back surface of the striking face.
An opening is formed through the rear portion, the adjustment driver is placed in the opening, the deformable member has a back surface, and the back surface of the deformable member contacts the adjustment driver.
A golf club head characterized in that the diameter of a portion of the deformable member that abuts on the back surface of the striking face is larger than the diameter of the opening. The deformable member is composed of a first material that abuts on the striking face and a second material that abuts on the rear portion, and the shore A hardness of the second material is the shore A of the first material. The golf club head according to claim 9, which is larger than the hardness. The golf club head according to claim 10, wherein the shore A hardness of the first material is less than 30, and the shore A hardness of the second material is larger than 35. The deformable member has a free thickness between the front surface of the deformable member and the back surface of the deformable member, and the deformable member is the front surface of the deformable member and the deformable member. The golf club head according to claim 9, which has a mounting thickness between the back surfaces and the free thickness is at least 5% larger than the mounting thickness. The golf club head according to claim 12, wherein the free thickness is at least 10% larger than the mounting thickness. The golf club head according to claim 12, wherein the free thickness is at least 15% larger than the mounting thickness. The golf club head according to claim 12, wherein the free thickness is at least 20% larger than the mounting thickness.

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