JP3244696U - Golf club head with damping element for ball speed control - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides a golf club head that simply and reliably backs a hitting face to achieve desired acoustic characteristics. A golf club head (700) includes a striking face (718), a peripheral portion (701) surrounding and extending rearwardly around the striking face, and a damping element (702) including a front surface and a back surface, the back surface of the damping element being connected to the damping element. , the striking face has a first portion of substantially constant thickness, the damping element has a geometric center, and the damping element is configured to achieve a desired acoustic characteristic. includes additional damping structures and materials and is formed from an elastomer. The golf head also includes a rear portion 712 that supports a damping element, and the rear portion includes a cantilevered support arm 762 secured to the periphery. [Selection diagram] Figure 7A

Description

This invention relates to a golf club head with a damping element for ball speed control.

For golfers, the goal is to reduce the total number of swings required to complete a round of golf, thereby reducing their overall score. To achieve that objective, golfers want their balls to travel similar distances when hit by the same golf club, and for some clubs, to have their balls travel long distances. is generally desirable. For example, when a golfer slightly mishits a golf ball, the golfer does not want the golf ball to travel a significantly different distance. At the same time, golfers do not want to always end up with a significantly reduced overall distance every time they hit the ball, even when hitting the ball in the "sweet spot" of the golf club. Additionally, it is desirable to provide the golfer with a pleasant sound when the golf club strikes the golf ball.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-015565

One non-limiting example of this technology includes a golf club head that includes a striking face, a peripheral portion surrounding the striking face and extending rearwardly from the striking face, and a golf club head that includes a coordinate system centered on the center of gravity of the golf club, the y-axis extending vertically perpendicular to the ground when the golf club head is in the address position at a predetermined loft and lie; the golf club head having an x-axis parallel to the face and extending to the heel of the golf club head, and a z-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extending through the striking face; a coordinate system; and a hosel configured to receive a shaft and positioned on a heel side of the golf club head, the heel side being positioned opposite a toe side, and the striking face is configured to , a front surface configured to strike a golf ball, and a back surface opposite the front surface, the golf club head further comprising a damping element having a front surface and a back surface, the damping element has a damping element, the back surface of which is opposite the front surface of the damping element, the front surface of the damping element is in contact with the back surface of the striking face, and the striking face is substantially the golf club head has a first portion having a constant thickness, the striking face has a plurality of score lines having the same length, and the golf club head has a first portion having a constant thickness, and the golf club head has a first portion having a constant thickness, the hitting face having a plurality of score lines having the same length; Parallel is a central face plane, the central face plane being equidistant from the heel-side tips of the plurality of scorelines and the toe-side tips of the plurality of scorelines, and the front surface of the damping element is the front surface of the damping element in contact with the first portion of the striking face has a geometric center, the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element being positioned toe-side of a center face plane; , the hitting face has a second portion, the second portion of the hitting face is positioned on the heel side of the central face plane, and the second portion of the hitting face is located at a thickened end of the second portion. and a thickness tapering from a maximum thickness at the thin end of the second section to a minimum thickness at the thinner end of the second section.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique, the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is located at a damping offset distance from the central face surface, and The thickened end is positioned at a heel offset distance from the central face surface, the heel offset distance being greater than the attenuation offset distance.

In additional non-limiting embodiments of this technique, the attenuation offset distance is greater than or equal to 5 mm.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique, the second portion has a height that tapers from a maximum height of a thick end of the second portion to a minimum height of a thin end of the second portion. It is equipped with

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique, the first portion of the striking face extends over the second portion.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique, a chamfer is formed between the upper end of the second portion and the first portion.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique, the striking face has a third portion, the third portion of the striking face is positioned toe of the central face plane, and The third portion has a thickness that tapers from a maximum thickness at a heel end of the third portion to a minimum thickness at a toe end of the third portion.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technology, the peripheral portion includes a sole extending rearwardly from the bottom of the striking face, a top line extending rearwardly from the top of the striking face, and a top line extending rearwardly from the sole. a back portion spaced apart from the striking face, the striking face and the peripheral portion forming a cavity, the damping element being within the cavity, and the damping element having a back surface; comes into contact with the surrounding area.

Additional non-limiting embodiments of this technology include a golf club head, the golf club head having a striking face, a peripheral portion surrounding the striking face and extending rearwardly from the striking face, and a golf club head that includes: a coordinate system centered on the center of gravity of the golf club, the y-axis extending vertically perpendicular to the ground when the golf club head is in the address position at a predetermined loft and lie; the golf club head having an x-axis parallel to the face and extending to the heel of the golf club head, and a z-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extending through the striking face; a coordinate system; and a hosel configured to receive a shaft and positioned on a heel side of the golf club head, the heel side being positioned opposite a toe side, and the striking face is configured to , a front surface configured to strike a golf ball, and a back surface opposite the front surface, the golf club head further comprising a damping element having a front surface and a back surface, the damping element has a damping element, the back surface of which is opposite the front surface of the damping element, the front surface of the damping element is in contact with the back surface of the striking face, and the striking face is substantially the golf club head has a first portion having a constant thickness, the striking face has a plurality of score lines having the same length, and the golf club head has a first portion having a constant thickness, and the golf club head has a first portion having a constant thickness, the hitting face having a plurality of score lines having the same length; Parallel is a central face plane, the central face plane being equidistant from the heel-side tips of the plurality of scorelines and the toe-side tips of the plurality of scorelines, and the front surface of the damping element is the front surface of the damping element in contact with the first portion of the striking face has a geometric center; the striking face has a second portion; and the second portion of the striking face is in contact with the center face. positioned on the heel side of a plane, the second portion of the striking face tapering in thickness from a maximum thickness at a thicker end of the second portion to a minimum thickness at a thinner end of the second portion; and the second portion has a height that tapers from a maximum height at a thick end of the second portion to a minimum height at a thin end of the second portion.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique, the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is located on the toe side of a central face plane.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique, the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is located at a damping offset distance from the central face surface, and The thickened end is positioned at a heel offset distance from the central face surface, the heel offset distance being greater than the attenuation offset distance.

In additional non-limiting embodiments of this technique, the attenuation offset distance is greater than or equal to 5 mm.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technology, the peripheral portion includes a sole extending rearwardly from the bottom of the striking face, a top line extending rearwardly from the top of the striking face, and a top line extending rearwardly from the sole. a back portion spaced apart from the striking face, the striking face and the peripheral portion forming a cavity, the damping element being within the cavity, and the damping element having a back surface; comes into contact with the surrounding area.

Additional non-limiting embodiments of this technology include a golf club head, the golf club head having a striking face, a peripheral portion surrounding the striking face and extending rearwardly from the striking face, and a golf club head that includes: a coordinate system centered on the center of gravity of the golf club, the y-axis extending vertically perpendicular to the ground when the golf club head is in the address position at a predetermined loft and lie; the golf club head having an x-axis parallel to the face and extending to the heel of the golf club head, and a z-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extending through the striking face; a coordinate system; and a hosel configured to receive a shaft and positioned on a heel side of the golf club head, the heel side being positioned opposite a toe side, and the striking face is configured to , a front surface configured to strike a golf ball, and a back surface opposite the front surface, the striking face having a first portion having a substantially constant thickness; The face has a plurality of scorelines having the same length, and the golf club head further includes a center face plane parallel to the y-axis and the z-axis, and a heel of the plurality of scorelines. the center face plane having a side tip and the center face plane equidistant from the toe side tips of the plurality of score lines; the hitting face having a second portion; positioned on the heel side, the second portion of the striking face has a thickness that tapers from a maximum thickness at a thicker end of the second portion to a minimum thickness at a thinner end of the second portion; the thicker end being positioned toe side of the thinner end, the striking face having a third portion, the third portion of the hitting face being positioned towards the plane of the center face, The third portion of the striking face has a thickness that tapers from a maximum thickness at a heel end of the third portion to a minimum thickness at a toe end of the third portion.

Additional non-limiting embodiments of this technique include a damping element including a front surface and a back surface, the back surface of the damping element being opposite the front surface of the damping element. , the front surface of the damping element contacts the back surface of the striking face, the front surface of the damping element contacts the first portion of the striking face, and the front surface of the damping element has a geometric shape. and the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is located on a toe side of the center face surface.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique, the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is located at a damping offset distance from the central face surface, and The thickened end is positioned at a heel offset distance from the center face surface, the heel offset distance being greater than the attenuation offset distance, and the attenuation offset distance being greater than or equal to 5 mm.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique, the second portion has a height that tapers from a maximum height of a thick end of the second portion to a minimum height of a thin end of the second portion. It is equipped with

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique, the first portion of the striking face extends over the second portion.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique, a chamfer is formed between the upper end of the second portion and the first portion.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technology, the peripheral portion includes a sole extending rearwardly from the bottom of the striking face, a top line extending rearwardly from the top of the striking face, and a top line extending rearwardly from the sole. a back portion spaced apart from the striking face, the striking face and the peripheral portion forming a cavity, the damping element being within the cavity, and the damping element having a back surface; comes into contact with the surrounding area.

Additional non-limiting embodiments of this technology include a golf club head, the golf club head having a striking face, a peripheral portion surrounding the striking face and extending rearwardly from the striking face, and a golf club head that includes: a coordinate system centered on the center of gravity of the golf club, the y-axis extending vertically perpendicular to the ground when the golf club head is in the address position at a predetermined loft and lie; the golf club head having an x-axis parallel to the face and extending to the heel of the golf club head, and a z-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extending through the striking face; a coordinate system; and a hosel configured to receive a shaft and positioned on a heel side of the golf club head, the heel side being positioned opposite a toe side, and the striking face is configured to , a front surface configured to strike a golf ball, and a back surface opposite the front surface, the golf club head further comprising a damping element having a front surface and a back surface, the damping element has a damping element, the back surface of which is opposite the front surface of the damping element, the front surface of the damping element is in contact with the back surface of the striking face, and the striking face is substantially the golf club head has a first portion having a constant thickness, the striking face has a plurality of score lines having the same length, and the golf club head has a first portion having a constant thickness, and the golf club head has a first portion having a constant thickness, the hitting face having a plurality of score lines having the same length; Parallel is a central face plane, the central face plane being equidistant from the heel-side tips of the plurality of scorelines and the toe-side tips of the plurality of scorelines, and the front surface of the damping element is The front surface of the damping element in contact with the first portion of the striking face has a geometric center.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique, the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is aligned with the central face plane.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique, the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is located at a heel damping offset distance of 5 mm or less from the central face plane.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique, the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is located at a toe damping offset distance of 5 mm or less from the central face plane.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique, the thickness of the first portion of the striking face is greater than 1.5 mm and less than 2.5 mm.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technology, the golf club head further includes a shelf extending inwardly from the peripheral portion and a back cover attached to the shelf to seal the cavity of the golf club head. and a rear cavity bridge extending across the cavity from one region of the shelf to another region of the shelf.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technology, the golf club head further includes a shelf extending inwardly from the peripheral portion and a back attached to the shelf for sealing the cavity of the golf club head. and a cover, the shelf including a protruding portion that spans the cavity from one region of the shelf to another region of the shelf.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technology, the golf club head further includes a shelf extending inwardly from the peripheral portion and a back attached to the shelf to seal a cavity in the golf club head. a cover, and the back cover includes a thermoplastic material.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technology, the back surface of the striking face includes a thermoset material.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technique, the thermoset material is applied in an uncured state to the rear surface of the striking face, and the thermoset material is then cured to form a 0.1 mm The thickness will be ~4.0mm.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technology, the thermoset material includes a filler material.

This summary has been provided to introduce a selection of concepts of the invention in a simplified form that are further described in the detailed description below. This summary is not intended to identify the main or fundamental features of the subject matter described in the utility model claims below, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the subject matter. .

A non-limiting and non-exhaustive example is explained with reference to the following figures.

1 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element. FIG. 1B shows a perspective cross-sectional view of the golf club head shown in FIGS. 1A-1B. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element and a striking face having a thick center portion. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element and a striking face having a thick center portion. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting compression of the elastomeric element. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting compression of the elastomeric element. FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of another example golf club head having an elastomeric element and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting compression of the elastomeric element. 4B shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 4A. FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another example of a golf club having an elastomeric element and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting compression of the elastomeric element. FIG. 2 shows a stress contour map of a golf club head that does not include elastomeric elements. FIG. 3 shows a stress contour map of a golf club head having an elastomeric element. 1 shows a front view of a golf club head. 6B shows a toe side side view of the golf club head of FIG. 6A. FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of the golf club head of FIG. 6A. 6B shows a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 6A oriented perpendicular to the striking face. FIG. 6B shows a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 6A oriented perpendicular to the striking face, including the supported region. FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a golf club head. 7B shows an additional perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 7A. FIG. FIG. 7B shows a rear view of the golf club head of FIG. 7A. FIG. 7C shows a BB cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C. FIG. 7C shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C. FIG. 7C shows a DD cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C. 7B illustrates an additional cross-sectional view of the front side of the golf club head of FIG. 7A, excluding the striking face. FIG. FIG. 9B shows a cross-sectional view of FIG. 9A with the deformable member removed. FIG. 7B shows a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 7A oriented perpendicular to the striking face including the supported area. 7C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C including additional examples of elastomeric elements. 7C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C including additional examples of elastomeric elements. 7C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C including additional examples of elastomeric elements. 7C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C including additional examples of elastomeric elements. 11B shows a periodogram power spectral density estimate for the golf club head shown in FIG. 11A. 11A illustrates an acoustic output estimate for the golf club head shown in FIG. 11A. 11D shows a periodogram power spectral density estimate for the golf club head shown in FIG. 11D. 11D shows an acoustic output estimate for the golf club head shown in FIG. 11D. Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element in which the rear part is larger than the front part. Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element in which the rear part is larger than the front part. Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element in which the rear part is larger than the front part. 14B shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to that of FIG. 14A, but including a first material and a second material. 14B shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to that of FIG. 14B, but including a first material and a second material. 14C shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to that of FIG. 14C, but including a first material and a second material. Figure 14B shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to that of Figure 14A, but with the center of the front section offset from the center of the rear section. Figure 14B shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to that of Figure 14B, but with the center of the front section offset from the center of the rear section. 14C shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to the elastomeric element of FIG. 14C, but with the center of the anterior portion offset from the center of the posterior portion. Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element necked between a front part and a rear part; Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element necked between a front part and a rear part; 14J shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to that of FIG. 14J but including a first material and a second material. A rear view of the golf club head is shown. FIG. 15B shows a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. FIG. 15B shows another perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. 15A shows a sectional view taken along line EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. 15A is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 15A shown without the adjustment driver and elastomeric elements implemented; FIG. FIG. 15B shows a perspective view of the adjustment driver and elastomeric element of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. 15B shows another perspective view of the adjustment driver and elastomeric element of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. FIG. FIG. 15B shows a side view of the adjustment driver and elastomeric element of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. FIG. 15B shows a cross-sectional view of the adjustment driver and elastomeric element of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. 15B shows another perspective view of the adjustment driver and elastomeric element of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. FIG. A rear view of the golf club head is shown. 19 shows an exploded view of the golf club head of FIG. 18. FIG. A cross-sectional view taken along line FF of the golf club head is shown. A GG cross-sectional view of the golf club head is shown. 1 shows a front view of a golf club head including a supported area. FIG. FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a golf club head and a second deformable member. Figure 24 shows the second deformable member shown in Figure 23; 25 shows a FF cross-sectional view of a golf club head including the second deformable member shown in FIGS. 23 and 24. FIG. FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head. FIG. 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, with the weight member, second damping element, and first damping element missing. FIG. 29 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head of FIG. 26, with the weight member and second damping element missing. FIG. 30 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head of FIG. 26, with the weight member missing. FIG. 31 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head of FIG. 26. FIG. 32 shows a cross-sectional view II of the golf club head of FIG. 27, with the weight member missing. FIG. 33 shows a cross-sectional view JJ of the golf club head of FIG. 27. FIG. 34 shows a perspective view of the first damping element and the 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. 26. FIG. 36 shows a perspective view of the second damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 26. FIG. 37 shows an additional perspective view of the second damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 26. FIG. 38 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a 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. FIG. 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, with the first damping element 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. 46 shows a perspective view of the second and third damping elements of the golf club head of FIG. 45. FIG. FIG. 47 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head. FIG. 48 shows a perspective view of section NN of the golf club head of FIG. 47. FIG. 49 shows a side view of section NN of the golf club head of FIG. 47. FIG. 50 shows a detailed view of the golf club head of FIG. 49. FIG. 51 shows a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 47, with the damping element missing. FIG. 52 shows a perspective view of cross section OO of the golf club head of FIG. 51. FIG. FIG. 53 shows a side view of the golf club head of FIG. 51 at cross section OO. 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 the section PP of the damping element of FIG. 54. FIG. 57 shows a side view of section PP of the damping element of FIG. 54. FIG. 58 shows a detailed view of the damping element of FIG. 57. FIG. 59 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head. FIG. 60 shows a side view of the golf club head of FIG. 59 along cross section QQ. 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 a cross-sectional view EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A including an additional example of a deformable member. FIG. 63 shows a cross-sectional view EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A including an additional example of a deformable member. FIG. 64 shows a cross-sectional view EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A including an additional example of a deformable member. FIG. 65 shows a cross-sectional view EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A including additional examples of deformable members. FIG. 66 illustrates the deformable member and adjustment driver of the golf club head of FIG. 62. FIG. 67 shows a method of manufacturing a golf club head. FIG. 68 shows a perspective view of a golf club head. FIG. 69 shows a cross-sectional view RR of the golf club head of FIG. 68 without the weight member. FIG. 70 shows a perspective view of the cross-sectional view RR of the golf club head of FIG. 69. FIG. 71 shows a cross-sectional view SS of the golf club head of FIG. 68 without the weight member and damping member. FIG. 72 shows a perspective view of a golf club head lacking the striking face and damping elements. FIG. 73 shows an additional perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 72 with the striking face and damping element missing. FIG. 74 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head. FIG. 75 shows a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 74 without the support arm and damping element. 76 shows a perspective view of the support arm and damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 74. FIG. FIG. 77 shows an additional perspective view of the support arm and damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 74. FIG. 78 shows a perspective view of the support arm of the golf club head of FIG. 74. FIG. 79 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head with the striking face and damping elements omitted for illustration. FIG. 80 shows an additional perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 79 with the striking face and damping elements omitted. FIG. 81 shows a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 79 further omitting the support arm. 82 shows a perspective view of the support arm of the golf club head of FIG. 81. FIG. FIG. 83 shows a perspective view of the support arm and weight member of the golf club head of FIG. 79. FIG. 84 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head with an additional embodiment of a damping element. FIG. 85 shows a perspective view of the damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 84. FIG. 86 shows a perspective view of a golf club head. FIG. 87 shows an additional perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 86. FIG. 88 shows a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 86 with the striking surface omitted. FIG. 89 shows an additional perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 86 with the striking face omitted. FIG. 90 shows a cross-sectional view TT of the golf club head of FIG. 86. FIG. 91 shows a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 86 including a back cover. FIG. 92 shows a perspective view of the back cover. Figure 93 shows an additional perspective view of the back cover. FIG. 94 shows a cross-sectional view VV of the golf club head of FIG. 92. FIG. 95 shows the golf club head of FIGS. 86-94 with a tapered heel portion. 96 shows a rear view of the striking face and damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 95. FIG. FIG. 97 shows a perspective view of the striking face and damping element of FIG. 96. FIG. 98 shows an additional perspective view of the striking face and damping element of FIG. 96. FIG. 99 shows a front view of the golf club head of FIG. 95 including the supported area. FIG. 100 shows a front view of another embodiment of the golf club head of FIG. 95 including the supported region. FIG. 101 shows a front view of another embodiment of the golf club head of FIG. 95 including the supported region. FIG. 102 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the golf club head of FIG. 86. FIG. 103 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the golf club head of FIG. 86. FIG. 104 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the golf club head of FIG. 86. FIG. 105 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the golf club head of FIG. 86. FIG. 106 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the golf club head of FIG. 86.

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

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

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

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

The elasticity of the elastomeric element 102 also affects the deflection of the striking face 118. For example, a material with a lower modulus of elasticity allows for more deflection of the striking face 118 and achieves greater maximum ball velocity, but with less uniformity. In contrast, a material with a higher modulus of elasticity will further prevent deflection of the striking face 118 and provide a more uniform ball speed, although it will achieve a lower maximum ball speed. The various types of materials are discussed in more detail below with reference to Tables 2-3.

Golf club head 100 also includes a sole 105 with a sole channel 104 between a front sole portion 114 and a back sole portion 116. Sole channel 104 extends along sole 105 of golf club head 100 from a point near the heel to a point near the toe. Although depicted as a hollow channel, sole channel 104 may be filled or spanned with plastic, rubber, polymer, or other material to prevent debris from entering cavity 120. Sole channel 104 allows for additional deflection of the lower portion of striking face 118. By allowing the lower portion of the hitting face 118 to flex more, higher ball velocities are achieved from hitting the ball with the lower portion of the hitting face 118, such as from hitting the ball off the grass. Thus, the elastomeric element 102 and sole channel 104 combine with each other to provide uniform ball speed across the striking face 118 and increase golf ball flight distance for turf hitting.

2A-2B illustrate a cross-sectional view of a golf club head 200 having an elastomeric element 202 and a striking face 218 with a thicker central portion 222. FIG. Golf club head 200 is similar to golf club head 100 discussed above with reference to FIGS. 1A-1C, except that thickened portion 222 of striking face 218 is utilized rather than flange 110. A thickened portion 222 of striking face 218 projects into cavity 220 . The front portion 203 of the elastomeric element 202 contacts the back surface 219 of the thickened portion 222. The rear portion of elastomeric element 202 is received within cradle 208 by recess 209, which is attached to rear portion 212 and is substantially similar to cradle 108 discussed above with reference to FIGS. 1A-1C. Due to the thickened portion 222 of the striking face 218, the elastomeric element 202 may be shorter in length than the elastomeric element 102 in FIGS. 1A-1C. Golf club head 200 also includes a sole channel 204 located between a front sole portion 214 and a back sole portion 216. Sole channel 204 also achieves benefits similar to those of sole channel 104 described in FIGS. 1A-1C, and may also be filled with or covered with material.

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

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

The higher compression of the elastomeric element 302 against the rear surface 319 of the striking face 318 further limits the deflection of the striking face 318. The further restriction of deflection, in turn, causes more uniform ball speed across the striking face 318. However, the deflection limitation 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 elastomeric element 302, a golfer or golf club fitting professional may adjust the compression to suit the golfer's particular needs. For example, a golfer who desires additional maximum distance but does not require uniform ball speed across the entire striking face 318 may reduce the initial compression of the elastomeric element 302 by loosening the threaded component 330. In contrast, a golfer desiring ball speed across the striking face 318 can tighten the threaded component 330 to increase the initial compression of the elastomeric element 302.

Although the adjustment mechanism is shown to include a threaded component 330 and a threaded through hole in FIGS. The compression of element 302 can be adjusted. For example, the adjustment mechanism may include a lever, and rotation of the lever may alter the compression of the elastomeric element 302. The adjustment mechanism may also include a depressable button to directly increase the compression of the elastomeric element 302. Other types of adjustment mechanisms may also be used.

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

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

FIG. 4A shows a perspective view of another example golf club head 400A having an elastomeric element 402 and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting compression of the elastomeric element 402. FIG. 4B shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head 400A. Golf club head 400A includes a striking face 418 and a rear portion 412 with a cavity 420 formed therebetween. Similar to the adjustment mechanism of FIGS. 3A and 3B, the adjustment mechanism of golf club head 400A includes an adjustment portion housing 406 and an adjustment driver 430. In the illustrated example, the adjustment portion accommodating portion 406 has a structure having a threaded through hole for accommodating an adjustment driver 430, and the adjustment driver 430 is a screw. In some embodiments, the adjustment portion housing 406 may be formed by a threaded through hole 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 side of the elastomeric element 402. As screw 430 is rotated, lateral movement of screw 430 moves cradle 408A closer or further away. Thus, in some examples, screw 430 extends substantially perpendicular to rear surface 419 of striking face 418. Since the cradle 408A holds the back surface of the elastomeric element 402, movement of the cradle 408A changes the compression of the elastomeric element 402 against the back surface 419 of the striking face 418. In this way, the compression of the elastomeric element 402 may be adjusted by rotating the screw 430 via the screw drive 432, which is similar to the threaded The operation is similar to that of component 330.

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

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

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

Other embodiments of golf club heads 400A and 400C, as shown, use a continuous sole 414 rather than a sole channel as in golf club head 300 of FIGS. 3A and 3B. May include sole channel. Additionally, 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 golf club head 300. An additional back plate 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 golf club heads that include elastomeric elements. Table 1 shows that ball speed across the face of the golf club head is maintained for several different exemplary golf club heads. Example 1 is a baseline hollow iron with a 2.1 mm face thickness 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) striking face that also includes a sole channel. Example 4 is a golf club head having elastomeric elements similar to golf club head 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-1C. The "Center" column shows the ball speed resulting from a strike at the center of the golf club head, and the "1/2" Heel column shows the ball speed from a strike half an inch from the center of the club head toward the heel. Indicates loss. And the "1/2" Toe row shows the loss of ball speed from a strike half an inch from the center of the club head toward the toe. All values in Table 1 are in miles per hour (mph).

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

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

From the results in Table 2, the selection of the material of 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 present technology.

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

The results in Table 3 show that materials with higher modulus retain ball speed better across the striking face, but lose maximum ball speed for impacts at the center of the face. In some applications, a range of elastic modulus of the elastomeric element from about 4 to about 15 GPa may be used. In other applications, a range of elastic modulus of the elastomeric element from about 1 to about 40 or about 50 GPa can be used.

As discussed above with reference to FIGS. 4A-4C, cradle size can also affect ball speed. For a smaller cradle, such as cradle 408A of FIGS. 4A-4B, and an elastomeric element made of 13 GPa material, approximately 0.2 mph for center impact compared to the same club without the elastomeric element. loss is observed. For a larger cradle that is approximately 5 mm deeper, such as cradle 408C in FIG. 4C, and an elastomeric element made from 13 GPa material, approximately 0.5 mm for center impact compared to the same club without the elastomeric element. A loss of 4 mph is observed. In the case of an elastomeric element made of 0.4 GPa material in a similar larger cradle, only about a 0.2 mph loss in center impact is observed compared to the same club without the elastomeric element. .

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

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

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

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

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

The striking face 618 includes a striking face region 652, which is defined as the area inside the striking face perimeter 650 as shown in FIG. 6D. As shown in FIG. 6C, the striking face circumference is defined by an upper limit 654 and a lower limit 656. Upper limit 654 is located at the intersection of substantially flat back surface 619 and an upper radius 655 that extends to the top line of golf club head 600 . Lower limit 656 is located at the intersection of substantially flat back surface 619 and lower radius 657 that extends to sole 605 of golf club head 600 . The striking face perimeter is similarly defined by the toe (not shown in cross-section) of the golf club head 600 (658). The heel portion around the striking face is defined by a plane 659 that extends parallel to the y- and x-axes and extends from the heel-most extent of the score line 660 formed on the striking face 618 to the heel. It is shifted by 1 millimeter (mm). In FIG. 6D, the striking face region 652 is shown hatched. 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 may be included in the set, each golf club head having a different loft α. Each golf club head may also have additional varying characteristics, including, for example, MOI-Y, striking face area, supported area area, and unsupported face percentage. The unsupported face percentage is calculated by dividing the area of the supported area by the area of the striking face multiplied 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 21, 24, 27, and 30 lofts. Other sets may include a larger number of golf club heads and/or a wider range of loft α values, or fewer golf club heads and/or a smaller range of loft α values. Additionally, the set may include one or more golf club heads that include elastomeric elements and one or more golf club heads that do not include elastomeric elements.

Additional example sets of iron club heads are included in Table 6 below.

If all other properties are held constant, a larger MOI-Y value will increase ball velocity on off-center hits. For a club with a lower MOI-Y, the greater the unsupported face percentage, the less the off-center ball velocity will be reduced. By supporting the face with a smaller percentage, more of the face can flex during impact, increasing off-center ball speed. Therefore, for the golf club set of the invention described in Table 5 above, MOI-Y increases throughout the set as loft α increases, and unsupported face percentage decreases throughout the set as loft α increases. . This relationship provides off-center ball speed consistency throughout a set of golf clubs.

The 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 greater 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. Can configure sets.

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

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

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

Golf club head 700 includes a deformable member 702 disposed between a striking face 718 and a rear portion 712. In one embodiment, deformable member 702 is formed from an elastomer. A forward portion 703 of elastomeric element 702 contacts a rear surface 719 of striking face 718 . The striking face 718 includes a supported area 742 , that is, the portion of the rear surface 719 supported by the elastomeric element 702 , which is the outer side of the forward portion 703 of the elastomeric element 702 that is in contact with the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718 . It is defined as the area inside the supported area periphery 740 defined by the range. Although the supported region 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-10 has a cavity back construction and includes a peripheral portion 701 that surrounds and extends rearwardly around a striking face 718. Peripheral portion 701 includes sole 705, toe 706, and topline 707. Peripheral portion 701 may include weight pads 710. Golf club head 700 also includes a rear portion 712 configured to support elastomeric element 702.

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

Support arm 762 extends from weight pad 710 located at the intersection of sole 705 and toe 706 of peripheral portion 701 toward supported region 742 . Support arm 762 is oriented substantially parallel to dorsal surface 719 of striking face 718 . Support arm 762 can include ribs 764 to increase the stiffness of support arm 762. Rib 764 can extend rearwardly from support arm 762 substantially perpendicular to rear surface 719 of striking face 718 . An advantage of cantilevered arm 762 is that it achieves a lower CG height than alternative beam designs, such as the embodiment shown in FIG. 4A, which is supported at both ends by a perimeter.

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

In one example, golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 25 mm or less. In other examples, golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 24 mm or less. In other examples, golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 23 mm or less. In other examples, golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 22 mm or less. In other examples, golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 21 mm or less. In other examples, golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 20 mm or less. In other examples, golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 19 mm or less. In other examples, 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 due to its orientation it provides a high MOI-Y. By concentrating mass at the heel and toe ends of golf club head 700, MOI-Y can be increased. Support arm 762 is angled to concentrate most of its mass near toe 706, increasing MOI-Y compared to a more centrally located rear portion of golf club head 700. In one embodiment, the MOI-Y of golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 200 kg- ^mm2 . In other embodiments, the MOI-Y of golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 210 kg-mm ² . In other embodiments, the MOI-Y of golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 220 kg-mm ² . In other embodiments, the MOI-Y of golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 230 kg-mm ² . In other embodiments, the MOI-Y of golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 240 kg-mm ² . In other embodiments, the MOI-Y of golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 250 kg-mm ² . In other embodiments, the MOI-Y of golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 260 kg-mm ² . In other embodiments, the MOI-Y of golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 270 kg-mm ² .

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

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

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

The ribs 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 portion of the ribs is 1 mm or more. In another embodiment, the rib width RW of at least some of the ribs is 2 mm or more. In another embodiment, the rib width RW of at least a portion of the ribs is 3 mm or more. In another embodiment, the rib width RW of at least some of the ribs is 4 mm or more.

The ribs 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 portion of the rib is 2 mm or more. In other embodiments, the rib thickness RT of at least some of the ribs is 3 mm or more. In other embodiments, the rib thickness RT of at least some of the ribs is 4 mm or more. In other embodiments, the rib thickness RT of at least some of the ribs is 5 mm or more. In other embodiments, the rib thickness RT of at least some of the ribs is 6 mm or more.

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

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

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

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

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

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

FIG. 11C shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head 700 that includes another example of an elastomeric element 702. Elastomeric element 702 in FIG. 11C is circular. The front diameter FD is greater than the back diameter RD of the elastomeric element 702 shown in FIG. 11C.

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

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

In one embodiment, the area of the supported area can be greater than 75 square millimeters. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than 100 square millimeters. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than 125 square millimeters. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than 150 square millimeters. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than 175 square millimeters. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than 200 square millimeters. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than 225 square millimeters. In other embodiments, the area of the supported region can be greater than 250 square millimeters. In other embodiments, the area of the supported region can be greater than 255 millimeters2. In other embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than 260 ^mm2 . In further examples, the area of the supported area may be greater than 50 square millimeters and less than 1000 square millimeters. In further examples, the area of the supported area may be greater than 100 square millimeters and less than 1000 square millimeters. In other examples, the area of the supported area can be greater than 150 square millimeters and less than 1000 square millimeters. In further examples, the area of the supported area may be greater than 200 square millimeters and less than 1000 square millimeters. In other examples, the area of the supported area can be greater than 250 square millimeters and less than 1000 square millimeters.

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

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

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

In other embodiments, elastomeric element 702 may not be circular. They may have other shapes including square, rectangular, octagonal, etc.

The same golf club head with various elastomeric elements was subjected to acoustic testing to determine the effectiveness of different embodiments of elastomeric elements. Testing was specifically performed with each club head hitting a Titleist ProV1 golf ball at an impact club head speed of approximately 95 miles per hour. The acoustic characteristics of the examples shown in FIGS. 11A and 11D were recorded as each golf club head struck a golf ball. 12A and 12B reflect the recording of a golf club head that utilizes the embodiment of the cylindrical elastomeric element shown in FIG. 11A hitting a golf ball, and FIGS. The results reflect the performance of golf club heads that utilize embodiments of tapered elastomeric elements in striking golf balls. FIG. 12A shows a periodogram power spectral density estimate for the cylindrical embodiment of FIG. 11A. FIG. 12B shows the acoustic power estimate for the cylindrical embodiment of FIG. 11A. FIG. 13A shows a periodogram power spectral density estimate for the tapered embodiment of FIG. 11D. FIG. 13B shows acoustic power estimates for the tapered embodiment of FIG. 11D.

As shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the dominant frequency of the cylindrical elastomeric 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 interaction between the golf club and the golf ball and the resonance of the golf ball generates a sound frequency at an acoustic frequency between approximately 1,000 Hz and 3,800 Hz. are generated, but acoustic frequencies above approximately 3,800 Hz are only generated by golf club heads. Accordingly, the first sound power peak in the sound power estimation graphs of FIGS. 12B and 13B correlates primarily with the golf ball, and subsequent sound power peaks correlate with the vibrations of the striking face of the golf club head. As shown in FIGS. 12B and 13B, the estimated peak acoustic power below 3,800 Hz corresponding to a golf ball is approximately 1.00×10 ⁻³ watts. As shown in FIG. 12B, the acoustic power produced by a golf club head utilizing the cylindrical elastomeric element example shown in FIG. 11A peaks at approximately 1.40×10 ⁻³ watts. As shown in FIG. 13B, the acoustic power produced by a golf club head utilizing the tapered elastomeric element example shown in FIG. 11D peaks at approximately 1.04×10 ⁻³ watts. Sound power level is directly correlated to the loudness of the sound produced by the golf club striking the golf ball. Accordingly, the sound produced by a golf club head utilizing the embodiment of a cylindrical elastomeric element shown in FIG. 11A is the same as the sound produced by a golf club head utilizing the embodiment of a tapered elastomeric element shown in FIG. 11D. Noticeably smaller than the sound.

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

14A-L illustrate another example of an elastomeric element 702, also referred to as a deformable element. These embodiments are designed with variable compression stiffness, spring constant, or flexural modulus. This can be achieved by combining different shapes and different co-molding materials of different durometers.

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

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

Any of these embodiments of the elastomeric element 702 described herein can be reversed so that the rear portion 744 abuts the rear surface of the striking face and not the front portion. In a preferred embodiment, FIGS. 14A-14L are circular when viewed from the front. In other embodiments, the elastomeric element 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 illustrate a golf club head 800 having an elastomeric element 702. FIG. FIG. 15A shows a rear view of 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 cross-sectional view taken along line EE of the golf club head 800 of FIG. 15A. FIG. 16 shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head 800 of FIG. 15 taken along line E--E without the adjustment driver 830 and elastomeric element 702 installed. FIG. 17A shows a perspective view of adjustment driver 830 and elastomeric element 702 of golf club head 800 of FIG. 15A. FIG. 17B shows another perspective view of the adjustment driver 830 and elastomeric element 702 of the golf club head 800 of FIG. 15A. figure. FIG. 17C shows a side view of the adjustment driver 830 and elastomeric element 702 of the golf club head 800 of FIG. 15A. FIG. 17D shows a cross-sectional view of adjustment driver 830 and elastomeric element 702 of FIG. 17A. FIG. 17E shows another perspective view of the adjustment driver 830 and elastomeric element 702 of FIG. 17A.

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

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

Golf club head 800 may include an adjustment receptacle 890 similar to adjustment receptacle 306 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. As shown in FIG. 16, the adjustment portion receiving portion 890 may include an opening formed in the rear portion 812 of the golf club head 800. As shown in FIG. The aperture can include a threaded portion 893. The adjuster housing 890 may include a housing shelf 895 that engages when the adjustment driver 830 is attached to the adjuster housing 890, as shown in FIG. 15D. Adjustment driver 830 can include a threaded portion 833 configured to engage threaded portion 893 of adjustment portion housing 890, as shown in FIGS. 15D and 17A-17E. Further, the adjustment driver 830 may include a flange 835 configured to engage a housing shelf 895 of the adjustment unit housing 890 when the adjustment driver 830 is attached to the adjustment unit housing 890. Receiver shelf 895 and flange 835 ensure that the elastomeric element properly and consistently engages back surface 819 of striking face 818 and provides the support necessary for optimal performance. While the previously described adjustment driver 330 is configured to be adjustable after assembly, the preferred embodiment of the adjustment driver 830 shown in FIGS. 15A-15D and 17A-17E is mounted in a set position during assembly. , configured to remain in that position. Reservoir shelf 895 and flange 835 ensure that adjustment driver 830 is consistently positioned to ensure that the elastomeric element properly and consistently engages rear surface 819 of striking face 818 to provide the support necessary for optimal performance. Helps ensure that. Adjustment driver 830 can also include a screw drive 832 configured to accept a tool and rotate adjustment driver 830 relative to golf club head 800 . Finally, adjustment driver 830 can have a mass. In some examples, the mass of the golf club head can be adjusted by replacing 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, polymer, 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. Additionally, a mass member added to the recess can also be used to change the distance between the rear portion of the elastomeric element and the rear surface of the striking face to change the compression of the elastomeric element.

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

As shown in FIGS. 18-22, a golf club head 900 includes a striking face 918 having a back surface 919. As shown in FIGS. Golf club head 900 also includes a rear portion 912 configured to support first deformable member 702A and second deformable member 702B. The first deformable member 702A may be the same as the elastomeric element (deformable member) described above. First deformable member 702A and second deformable member 702B may each take the form of any of the elastomeric elements described herein. They may take the same form or different forms. Golf club head 900 is made of hollow body construction, and rear portion 912 covers a significant portion of the rear portion of golf club head 900. A 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 a cavity 920. In the preferred illustrated embodiment, the first deformable member 702A is spaced apart from the second deformable member 702B and is not in contact with the second deformable member 702B. In alternative embodiments, the first deformable member 702A may contact the second deformable member 702B in a closely spaced manner.

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

As shown in FIG. 22, the striking face includes multiple supported areas. The first supported area 742A is formed by the portion of the rear surface 919 of the striking face 918 that is supported by the first deformable member 702A, which is the first deformable region that contacts the rear surface 919 of the striking face 918. Defined by the inner area of the first supported area perimeter 740A defined by the outer extent of the front portion 703A of the flexible member 702A. The second supported region 742B is formed by the portion of the rear surface 919 of the striking face 918 that is supported by the second deformable member 702B, which is a second deformable region that contacts the rear surface 919 of the striking face 918. Defined by the inner area of the second supported area perimeter 740B defined by the outer extent of the front portion 703B of the supportable member 702B. The first supported region 742A and the second supported region 742B are not normally visible from the front of the golf club head 900, but are 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 plane 959 in the toe direction by an offset length SROL1. However, measurements are taken with the golf club head 900 positioned parallel to the ground, parallel to the hitting face 918, and in the address position. The second geometric center 743B of the second supported region 742B is located offset from the striking face heel reference plane 959 in the toe direction by the second supported region offset length SROL2. However, measurements are taken with the golf club head 900 positioned parallel to the ground, parallel to the hitting face 918, and in the address position.

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

In one example, the first deformable member 702A is made of the same material as the second deformable member 702B and therefore has the same hardness. In other embodiments, the first deformable member 702A is made of a material that has 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 example, the first deformable member 702A has a Shore A50 durometer and the second deformable member has a Shore A10 durometer. In one example, the first deformable member 702A has a Shore A durometer of greater than 25 and the second deformable member has a Shore A durometer of less than 25.

The first deformable member may be housed, structured, or supported similarly to the second deformable member, and the second deformable member may be housed, structured, or supported similarly to the first deformable member. Please note that it may be supported. Additionally, the first deformable member and the second deformable member may be housed, structured, or supported in any manner described herein.

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

Additional embodiments of golf club heads incorporating various damping elements are described below, many of which are applied to the underside 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 characteristics, as well as additional details described below. The damping element helps reduce the vibrations that occur when the golf club head hits the golf ball and improves the sound by making it more comfortable for the golfer's ears.

26-33 illustrate additional embodiments of a golf club head 700 having a first damping element 702A and a second damping element 702D. FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of golf club head 700. FIG. 27 shows a side view of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 26. FIG. 28 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 26, devoid of the weight member 710, second damping element 702D, and first damping element 702A. FIG. 29 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 26, with the weight member 710 and second damping element 702D missing. FIG. 30 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 26, with the weight member 710 missing. FIG. 31 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 26. FIG. 32 shows a cross-sectional view II of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 27, with the weight member 710 missing. FIG. 33 shows a cross-sectional view JJ of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 27. 34 and 35 show perspective views of a first damping element 702A and a 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 with a cavity back construction and includes a peripheral portion 701 surrounding and extending rearwardly from a striking face 718. Peripheral portion 701 includes sole 705, toe 706, and topline 707. Peripheral portion 701 may also include weight members 710. The peripheral portion may also include a rear portion 712 that may partially surround the cavity 720, as shown in FIG. 26. In other embodiments, the rear portion may substantially surround the cavity, as shown in FIG. 15A. Peripheral portion 701 of golf club head 700 may include a cantilever support arm attached to and extending from sole 705 . As shown in FIG. 28, support arm 762 may extend substantially parallel to striking face 718. As shown in FIG. 29, golf club head 700 may include a first damping element 702A disposed between rear surface 719 of striking face 718 and cantilever support arm 762. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 26, first damping element 702A includes a front surface 703A (FIG. 20) that contacts a central portion of striking face 718. Damping element 702A can support striking face 718 and provide damping characteristics, as described above. In other embodiments, the rear portion may substantially surround the cavity, as shown in FIG. 15A. In such embodiments, the first damping element may be located between the back and rear portion of the striking face.

As shown in FIGS. 26 and 30-33, the golf club head may include a second damping element 702D, which is shown in FIGS. 34 and 35 along with the first damping element 702A. and is shown alone in FIGS. 36 and 37. As shown, a portion of second damping element 702D may be disposed between rear surface 719 of striking face 718 and support arm 762. The second damping element 702D may be located further from the geometric center of the striking face 718 than the first damping element 702A. More specifically, the second damping element 702D may be located near the sole 705. Second damping element 702D includes a front surface 703B (FIG. 21) that contacts back surface 719 of striking face 718 and a back surface 781 that contacts support arm 762. The second damping element 702D may include a toe portion 782 extending forwardly of the support arm 762. The second damping element 702D may include a heel portion 783 extending toward the heel of the support arm 762. The second damping element 702D may include a rear portion 784 that extends around the support arm 762 and forms a cavity 785 configured to receive the support arm. In some examples, as shown in FIG. 31, the golf club head may include a weight member 710 spaced rearwardly of the support arm, and the rear portion 784 of the second damping element 702D , may be disposed between the weight member 710 and the support arm 762. Weight member 710 may be integrally formed with another portion of golf club head 700 or may be a different material coupled to golf club head 700. The second damping element 702D may include a relief 786 formed on the top of the first damping element 702A and configured to be complementary to the shape of the first damping element 702A. The second damping element 702D can be deformable and formed of an elastomeric material that provides damping properties. In one example, the first damping element 702A has a higher modulus than the second damping element 702D. In an alternative embodiment, the second damping element 702D has a higher modulus than the first damping element 702A. In yet other examples, the first damping element 702A has a substantially similar modulus of elasticity as the second damping element 702D.

In addition to the materials already disclosed, the damping element, more specifically the second damping element 702D, may comprise damping foam. In one example, the second damping element 702D may be formed separately from the golf club head and subsequently attached. In other examples, 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 examples, the second damping element 702D may be specifically selected or shaped to meet the 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 single damping elements such that a single damping element includes features of both the first and second damping elements. It may be monolithically formed from one piece of material. In yet other embodiments, multiple pieces of material may include first and/or second damping elements.

38-42 illustrate additional embodiments of a golf club head 700 that includes a first damping element 702A and a second damping element 702E. FIG. 38 shows a perspective view of 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. FIG. 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, with the first damping element 702A missing. FIG. 44 shows a perspective view of the second damping element 702E of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 38.

The golf club head 700 shown in FIGS. 38-43 includes a first damping element 702A similar to that previously described and shown in FIGS. 26-33 and a golf club head 700 shown in FIGS. 26-33. Includes an embodiment of a second damping element 702E that is different from the head. A second damping element 702E can be attached to a back surface 719 of the striking face 718. In some examples, second damping element 702E can be secured to the striking face via adhesive 711. Adhesive 711 may be a double-sided tape such as 3M High Adhesive Tape, an epoxy, an adhesive, or a mechanical adhesive such as a fastener, rivet, backing plate, etc. As shown, at least a portion of the second damping element 702E can be positioned below the first damping element 702A. The second damping element 702E can extend in the toe direction of the first damping element 702A and in the heel direction of the first damping element 702A, substantially from the heel 704 to the toe 706, as shown in FIG. It's good to extend. 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 a majority of the back surface 719 of the striking face 718 that is not covered by the first damping element 702A.

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

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

FIG. 45 shows a cross-sectional view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head 700. 46 shows a perspective view of the second damping element 702G and third damping element 702H of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 45. FIG. Golf club head 700 includes a first damping element hidden behind a medallion 790, a second damping element 702G, and a third damping element 702H. The second damping element 702G, in this example, has a first portion disposed on the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718, except that it also has a second portion 779 extending rearwardly from the striking face 718 along the sole 705. 796, it is very similar to damping element 702E of FIGS. 33-44. In one example, the golf club head 700 may also include a third damping element 702H, similar to the second damping element 702F, except that it covers the top of the back surface 719 of the striking face 718. In one example, third damping element 702H is positioned between back surface 719 of striking face 718 and 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 arranged in a single damping element such that a single damping element includes features of both the second and third damping elements. It may be monolithically formed from one piece of material. In yet another example, two or more pieces of material may include second and/or third damping elements.

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

One goal of the damping elements described herein is to dissipate energy in the golf club head after striking a golf ball. When the striking face and other parts of a golf club head vibrate, damping elements in contact with those surfaces can dissipate energy. This can alter the sound produced by the golf club head by reducing the loudness and/or duration of the sound produced when the golf club head strikes a golf ball. The damping elements, elastomers, and deformable members described herein can be formed from viscoelastic materials. Tanδ represents the ratio of the viscous response to the elastic response of a viscoelastic material, which is the energy dissipation potential of the viscoelastic material. The larger Tanδ, the more dissipative the material. More specifically, Tan δ = E''/E', where E'' is the loss modulus, representing the energy dissipated by the system, and E' is the storage modulus, representing the energy dissipated by the system. represents the energy stored in Tanδ varies depending on temperature and vibration frequency. The damping elements described herein are preferably formed from a viscoelastic material having a peak Tan δ between 3 kHz and 9 kHz, more preferably between 5 kHz and 7 kHz, within a temperature range of 200° C. to 500° C. In some examples, the damping elements may be formed of different viscoelastic materials, where one damping element has a Tan δ that peaks at a higher frequency than another. In particular, with reference to the golf club head 700 of FIGS. 26-37, the first damping element 702A is formed of a first viscoelastic material, the second damping element 702D is formed of a second viscoelastic material, and the first damping element 702D is formed of a second viscoelastic material. The Tan δ of one viscoelastic material peaks at a first frequency, the Tan δ of the second viscoelastic material peaks at a second frequency, and the first frequency is lower than the second frequency. This particular configuration allows the first damping element to better dampen the vibrations of the striking face and the second damping element to better dampen the vibrations of the support arm.

47-58 illustrate additional embodiments of golf club heads 1000 that include damping elements 1002. FIGS. FIG. 47 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head 1000. FIG. 48 shows a perspective view of cross section NN of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. 47. FIG. 49 shows a side view of 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. FIG. 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 the cross section OO of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. 51. FIG. FIG. 53 shows a side view of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. 51 at cross section OO. FIG. 54 shows a perspective view of damping element 1002 of golf club head 1000 of FIG. 47. FIG. 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 the section PP of the damping element 1002 of FIG. 54. FIG. 57 shows a side view of the section PP of the damping element 1002 of FIG. 54. FIG. 58 shows a detailed view of the damping element 1002 of FIG. 57.

Golf club head 1000 includes a striking face 1018 having a back surface 1019. Golf club head 1000 includes a rear portion 1012 configured to support damping element 1002. The illustrated golf club head 1000 is a hollow body construction, and the rear section 1012 covers a significant portion of the rear of the golf club head 1000. A rear portion 1012 is located behind the striking face 1018 and extends from the heel 1004 to the toe 1006 between the top line 1017 and the sole 1005 and forms a cavity 1020. .

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

As shown in FIGS. 54-57, damping element 1002 includes an outer portion 1103 and a damping portion 1104. External portion 1103 is primarily behind rear portion 1012 of golf club head 1000. The damping portion 1104 is primarily within the golf cavity 1020. Club head 1000 is configured adjacent a back surface 1019 of striking face 1018, as shown in FIGS. 48-50. A channel 1105 is formed between the outer portion 1103 and the damping portion 1104, and the channel 1105 is configured to engage the shelf 1014 of the rear portion 1012 of the golf club head 1000. 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, damping element 1002 may not include indentation 1106.

External portion 1103 of damping element 1002 can include a flange surface 1107 configured to adjoin shelf 1014 of golf club head 1000. External portion 1103 may also include an external surface 1108 opposite flange surface 1107. Because it is exterior, it is aesthetically appealing to golfers and is designed to replace traditional medallions. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 50, the adhesive 1112 can be between the front flange surface 1107 of the front damping element 1002 and the shelf 1014 of the front back section 1012.

As shown in FIGS. 48-50, at least a portion of the damping portion 1104 of the damping element 1002 resides 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. There is. As shown in FIG. 58, the damping portion 1104 of the damping element 1002 has 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. can include.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FIG. 61 shows an additional cross-sectional view of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. 59, which includes a golf club shaft 1089 and a sixth damping element 1160. Golf club head hosel 1098 includes a hosel bore 1099 configured to receive shaft 1089. In one example, hosel bore 1099 can also receive a sixth damping element 1160. This can take the form of a plug as shown in FIG. 60.

62-65 illustrate additional embodiments of the deformable member 702 of the golf club head 800 shown in FIGS. 15A-15E, discussed above. FIG. 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. FIG. 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 illustrates the deformable member 702 and adjustment driver 830 of the golf club head 800 of FIG. 62.

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

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

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

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

As shown in FIG. 64, deformable member 702 can include a first material 770 and a second material 780. Multi-material deformable members were described with reference to FIGS. 14D, 14E, and 14Lwo. In the example shown in FIG. 64, a first material 770 is in contact with the underside 819 of the striking face 818 and a second material 780 is in contact with the adjustment driver 830. In one example, the first material can have a higher hardness than the second material. In other examples, the second material can have a higher hardness than the first material. In preferred embodiments, the first material can have a Shore A hardness value that is lower than the Shore A hardness value of the second material. In more preferred embodiments, 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 more preferred embodiments, 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 more preferred embodiments, 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 more preferred embodiments, 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 may have a Shore A hardness value of less than 15 and the second material may 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 modified, but additional benefits can be achieved including reduced vibration for better feel and sound.

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

One method of utilizing the embodiments described herein is outlined in FIG. 67. During construction of the golf club head 800, a target coefficient of restitution for the golf club head can be identified (1211), a deformable member configuration that achieves the target coefficient of restitution value can be selected (1212), and the selected deformable member configuration can be implemented on the golf club head (1213), then optionally test the coefficient of restitution of the golf club head and modify the deformable member configuration 1214 as needed (1214), and then The previous step may be repeated (1215) accordingly. Alternatively, instead of using coefficient of restitution as a measurement and target value for a golf club head, a characteristic time can be used, which is similar to coefficient of restitution but easier to measure. .

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

As mentioned above, the golf club head 700 illustrated in FIGS. 26-33 includes a second damping element 702D. The second damping element 702D may be between the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718 and the support arm 762. Additionally, there can be at least one weight member 710 and a second damping element 702D between the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718 and the weight member 710 or between the support arm 762 and the weight member 710. Good placement. It is noted that the second damping element 702D may be formed separately from the golf club head and subsequently attached, or may be co-molded with the golf club head to specifically fit the shape of a particular club. sea bream. The co-molding process may include an injected filler material that hardens after being inserted into the golf club head. The injectable filler material may use a first component and a second component that begin to harden once mixed and inserted into a golf club head. Additionally, the second damping element 702D may include a combination of both an injected portion as well as a preformed member attached to the golf club head. The injected portion can help fill the gap between the preformed member and the striking face 718, support arm 762, weight member 710, or rear portion 712 of the golf club head 700. The injected portion can reduce misalignments between clubs due to part and assembly tolerances and ensure flush contact with the intended surface of the golf club head. Examples of injectable filler materials that can be used in golf club heads include FlexSeal ^™ liquid rubber or DipSeal ^™ cellulose-based plastic coatings. In other embodiments, foamed materials can be used instead of injected rubber materials. The foam may be preformed, injection cast-in-place foam, or a combination of the two. Additionally, as previously discussed, injection cast-in-place foams can be used in addition to preformed elastomeric members. Adhesives may be used in combination with any of the previous embodiments and combinations to help secure the damping element in place.

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

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

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

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

The first portion 1465 of the support arm is angled upwardly from the heel 1404 toward the cradle 1408 when measured relative to the x-axis. In some examples, first portion 1465 can be angled upwardly by more than 5 degrees. In other examples, first portion 1465 can be angled upwardly by more than 10 degrees. In other examples, first portion 1465 can be angled upwardly by more than 15 degrees. In other examples, first portion 1465 can be angled upwardly by more than 20 degrees. In other examples, first portion 1465 can be angled upwardly by more than 25 degrees. In other examples, first portion 1465 can be angled upwardly by more than 30 degrees. The second portion 1466 of the support arm is angled upwardly from the tow 1406 toward the cradle 1408 when measured relative to the x-axis. In some examples, second portion 1466 can be angled upwardly by more than 5 degrees. In other examples, second portion 1466 can be angled upwardly by more than 10 degrees. In other examples, second portion 1466 can be angled upwardly by more than 15 degrees. In other examples, second portion 1466 can be angled upwardly by more than 20 degrees. In other examples, second portion 1466 can be angled upwardly by more than 25 degrees. In other examples, second portion 1466 can be angled upwardly by more than 30 degrees.

FIG. 74 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head 1300A. FIG. 75 shows a perspective view of the golf club head 1300A of FIG. 74 with support arm 1366A and damping element 702 missing. 76 shows a perspective view of support arm 1366A and damping element 702 of golf club head 1300A of FIG. 74. FIG. 77 shows an additional perspective view of the support arm 1366A and damping element 702 of the golf club head 1300A of FIG. 74. 78 shows a perspective view of support arm 1366A of golf club head 1300A of FIG. 74. FIG.

Golf club head 1300A is substantially similar to golf club head 1300 shown in FIGS. 68-71, which includes a damping element 702 and a substantially vertically extending support arm 1362A. The golf club head 1300A of FIG. 74 differs from the golf club head 1300 of FIGS. 68-71 in that it is manufactured separately from the rest of the golf club head 1300A and has a support arm that is attached to the rest of the golf club head 1300A. Contains 1362A. Similar to the previous example, support arm 1362A is configured to support damping element 702 in contact with back surface 1319 of striking face 1318. Support arm 1362A includes a cradle 1308A that contacts damping element 702. Support arm 1362A also includes a first portion 1365A extending from cradle 1308A toward sole 1305. First portion 1365A can be attached to aft portion 1312. Support arm 1362A also includes a second portion 1366A extending from cradle 1308A toward topline 1207. Second portion 1365A may be fixed to top line 1307. Further, support arm 1362A may include a rib 1368A, which extends from first portion 1365A to second portion 1366A, as shown in FIG. 76. Ribs 1368A may contact cradle 1308A and increase the stiffness of support arm 1362A.

As shown in FIG. 75, the aft portion 1312 may include a first portion engaging member 1365B configured to engage a first portion 1365A of the support arm 1362A, and the top line 1307 may include a first portion 1365A of the support arm 1362A. may include a second portion engaging member 1366B configured to engage second portion 1366A of. Support arm 1362A can be attached to peripheral portion 1301 of golf club head 1300A in a variety of ways, including, for example, welding, brazing, adhesives, mechanical fasteners, interference fits, clips, deflection members, and the like. The first partial engagement member 1365B and the second partial engagement member 1366B may include an opening 1367B configured to receive a fastener. Further, the first portion 1366A and the second portion 1365A of the support arm 1362A may include an opening 1367A configured to receive a fastener. As shown in FIG. 74, aperture 1367A can be aligned with aperture 1367B, and fasteners (not shown), such as rivets or threaded fasteners, can be installed within apertures 1367A, 1367B to attach support arm 1362A to a golf club head. It can be fixed at 1300A. The support arm 1362A can be attached to the rear side of the rear section 1312 and to the top line 1307, as shown in FIG. Can be installed. Alternatively, the support arm 1362A may be attached to the front side of the top line 1307 and the rear side of the aft portion 1312, or vice versa. Additionally, support arm 1362A may be secured to sole 1305, toe 1306, or heel 1304. In one example, the location at which the support arm is secured to the golf club head may be adjustable such that the damping element can be adjusted relative to the center of the striking face. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the medallion may be incorporated into the support arm and attached using the same attachment method as the support arm.

FIG. 79 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head 1400A with the striking face and damping elements omitted for illustration. FIG. 80 shows an additional perspective view of the golf club head 1400A of FIG. 79 with the striking face and damping elements omitted. FIG. 81 shows a perspective view of the golf club head 1400A of FIG. 79 with support arm 1462A omitted. 82 shows a perspective view of support arm 1462A of golf club head 1400A of FIG. 79. FIG. FIG. 83 shows a perspective view of the support arm 1462A and weight members 1410, 1411 of the golf club head 1400A of FIG. 79.

Golf club head 1400A is substantially similar to golf club head 1400 shown in FIGS. 72 and 73 and includes a damping element 702 and a substantially horizontally extending support arm 1462A. Unlike the golf club head 1400 of FIGS. 72 and 73, the golf club head 1400A of FIG. 79 is manufactured separately from the remainder of the golf club head 1400A and has a support arm 1462A attached to the remainder of the golf club head 1400A. including.

Similar to the previous example, support arm 1462A is configured to support a damping element in contact with the back surface of the striking face. Support arm 1462A includes a cradle 1408A that contacts the damping element. Support arm 1462A also includes a first portion 1465A extending from cradle 1408A toward heel 1404. Support arm 1462A also includes a second portion 1466A extending from cradle 1408A toward tow 1406. First portion 1465A and second portion 1466A can be secured to peripheral portion 1401. The peripheral portion may include a support arm receptacle 1469 configured to engage support arm 1462A. The peripheral portion may include an opening 1467B configured to receive a fastener 1468. The support arm may include an opening 1467A configured to receive a fastener 1468. As shown, the first portion 1465A and the second portion 1466A can be inserted into the support arm receptacle 1469 with the support arm opening 1467A aligned with the peripheral portion opening 1467B, and the fastener 1468 is inserted into the support arm 1462A and the second portion 1466A. A damping element (not shown) may be attached to securely attach to the golf club head 1400A. In some examples, apertures 1467B and support arm receptacles can be formed in heel weight member 1410 and toe weight member 1411. The fastener may be a threaded fastener and one or more of the apertures 1467A, 1467B may include threads for engagement.

Golf club head 1300A and golf club head 1400A include modular support arms 1362A and 1462A, respectively, each of which provides benefits to the support arms formed with the golf club head. By securing the support arm to the golf club head, the support arm can be made from different materials of the golf club head, including, for example, steel, aluminum, titanium, composite materials, and the like. The support arm may be formed of a material of a different density and/or different stiffness than the golf club head. The support arm can be manufactured through a variety of manufacturing techniques including, for example, casting, forging, stamping, machining, three-dimensional printing, etc.

In addition, a removable support arm allows you to attach various damping elements to the golf club head, allowing you to fine-tune the golf club head to maximize the coefficient of restitution and the acoustic profile of the golf club head when striking a golf ball. can be fine-tuned.

FIG. 84 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head 1300A with an additional example of a damping element 702. 85 shows a perspective view of damping element 702 of golf club head 1300A of FIG. 84. FIG. The damping element 702 shown in FIGS. 84 and 86 includes a first portion 770 and a second portion 780. First portion 770 is centrally located and second portion 780 at least partially surrounds first portion 770. The first portion 770 is made of a first material having a first durometer. The second portion 780 is made of a second material having a second durometer. The first durometer is greater than the second durometer. The first portion 770 serves to support the center of the striking face 1318 and the second portion serves to dampen vibrations of the striking face 1318. In the illustrated example, cradle 1308A supports damping element first portion 770. In other examples, cradle 1308A can support both first portion 770 and second portion 780. First portion 770 and second portion 780 may be made from one or more materials, which may include, for example, elastomers, rubbers, silicones, foams.

In one embodiment, the first durometer may be greater than 10A Shore and less than 95A Shore. In additional embodiments, the first durometer may be greater than 20A Shore and less than 95A Shore. In additional embodiments, the first durometer may be greater than 30A Shore and less than 95A Shore. In additional embodiments, the first durometer may be greater than 40A Shore and less than 95A Shore. In additional embodiments, the first durometer may be greater than 50A Shore and less than 95A Shore. In additional embodiments, the first durometer may be greater than 60A Shore and less than 95A Shore. In additional embodiments, the first durometer may be greater than Shore 70A and less than Shore 95A. In additional embodiments, the first durometer may be greater than 80A Shore and less than 95A Shore. In one embodiment, first portion 770 is formed from an elastomer.

In one example, the second durometer may have a Shore 00 value greater than 10 and less than 100. In additional examples, the second durometer may have a Shore 00 value greater than 20 and less than 100. In additional examples, the second durometer may have a Shore 00 value greater than 30 and less than 100. In additional examples, the second durometer may have a Shore 00 value greater than 40 and less than 100. In additional embodiments, the second durometer may have a Shore 00 value greater than 50 and less than 100. In additional examples, the second durometer may have a Shore 00 value greater than 60 and less than 100. In additional examples, the second durometer may have a Shore 00 value greater than 70 and less than 100. In additional examples, the second durometer may have a Shore 00 value greater than 80 and less than 100. The second durometer may have an Asker C value greater than 10 and less than 90. In additional examples, the second durometer may have an Asker C value greater than 20 and less than 90. In additional examples, the second durometer may have an Asker C value greater than 30 and less than 90. In additional examples, the second durometer may have an Asker C value greater than 40 and less than 90. In additional examples, the second durometer may have an Asker C value greater than 50 and less than 90. In additional examples, the second durometer may have an Asker C value greater than 60 and less than 90. In one embodiment, the second durometer is less than 20A Shore. In one embodiment, second portion 780 is formed of foam.

86-94 illustrate additional embodiments of golf club heads 1500 having damping elements 702. FIGS. FIG. 86 shows a perspective view of a golf club head 1500. FIG. 87 shows an additional perspective view of the golf club head 1500 of FIG. 86. FIG. 88 shows a perspective view of the golf club head 1500 of FIG. 86 with the striking face omitted. FIG. 89 shows an additional perspective view of the golf club head 1500 of FIG. 86 with the striking face omitted. FIG. 90 shows a TT cross-sectional view of the golf club head 1500 of FIG. 86.

The golf club head 1500 shown in FIGS. 86-90 is an iron with a cavity back construction and includes a peripheral portion 1501 surrounding a striking face 1518 and extending rearwardly. Peripheral portion 1501 includes sole 1505, toe 1506, heel 1504, and topline 1507. Peripheral portion 1501 may also include a rear portion 1512 that may partially surround cavity 1520. Peripheral portion 1501 of golf club head 1500 may include support arm 1562. Support arm 1562 may extend from sole 1505 to topline 1507. In another example, support arm 1562 may extend from rear portion 1512 to topline 1507. Support arm 1562 may include a first portion 1565, a cradle 1508, and a second portion 1566. First portion 1565 extends from sole 1505 or rear portion 1512, or both. The first portion 15165 is coupled to a cradle 1508 that is configured to support a damping element 702 disposed between a back surface 1519 of the striking face 1518 and the cradle 1508 of the support arm 1562. Second portion 1566 extends between top lines 1507 . Damping element 702 can support striking face 1518 and provide damping characteristics, as described above.

As shown, the first portion 1565 is substantially thicker in the front-to-back direction than in the heel-toe direction, and the second portion 1566 is substantially thicker in the heel-toe direction than in the front-to-back direction. Additionally, cradle 1508 is thicker in the heel-toe direction than second portion 1566. In other embodiments, this may be reversed. In another embodiment, both the first portion 1565 and the second portion 1566 may be substantially thicker in the front-to-back direction than in the heel-toe direction. In another example, both the first portion 1565 and the second portion 1566 may be substantially thicker in the heel-toe direction than in the fore-and-aft direction. In another example, the second portion 1566 may be thicker than the cradle 1508 in the heel-toe direction.

Referring to FIGS. 91-94, golf club head 1500 may include a back cover 1600 attached to peripheral portion 1501. Referring to FIGS. FIG. 91 shows a perspective view of the golf club head 1500 of FIG. 86 including a back cover 1600. FIG. 92 shows a perspective view of the back cover 1600. FIG. 93 shows an additional perspective view of the back cover 1600. FIG. 94 shows a VV cross-sectional view of the golf club head 1500 of FIG. 92. As shown in FIG. 94, the peripheral portion may include a shelf 1514 configured to accommodate the back cover 1600. Back cover 1600 may be secured to peripheral portion 1501 in a variety of ways, including, for example, adhesives, double-sided tape, mechanical fasteners, interference fit, undercuts, epoxy, and the like. As shown in FIGS. 91-93, the back cover may include a central recess 1602 from which a heel leg 1604 and a toe leg 1606 extend downwardly. The rear portion 1512 of the peripheral portion 1501 may include a central protrusion 1513 that extends further upward than the other portions of the rear portion 1512 . As shown in FIG. 94, the first portion 1565 of the support arm 1562 may extend from the central projection 1513 of the rear portion 1512. Additionally, the central protrusion 1513 may extend into the central recess 1602 of the back cover 1600.

Further, as shown in FIG. 93, the back cover may include a plurality of reinforcing members 1610 configured to increase the stiffness of the back cover 1600 while maintaining light weight. The back cover 1600 may include a reinforcing member extending in the vertical direction and a reinforcing member extending in the horizontal direction. The reinforcing member 1610 generally projects from the back cover 1600 toward the cavity 1520 of the golf club head 1500.

Golf club head 1500 may include a variable face thickness geometry to further promote more uniform ball speed across the striking face of the golf club head. FIG. 95 shows the golf club head 1500 of FIGS. 86-94 with a tapered heel portion 1540. FIG. 96 shows a rear view of the striking face 1518 and damping element 702 of the golf club head 1500 of FIG. 95. FIG. FIG. 97 shows a perspective view of the striking face 1518 and damping element 702 of FIG. 96. FIG. 98 shows an additional perspective view of the striking face 1518 and damping element 702 of FIG. 97. 99 shows a front view of the golf club head 1500 of FIG. 95, including supported region 742. FIG.

As shown in FIG. 95, golf club head 1500 includes a plurality of score lines on striking face 1518. Most of the scorelines 1560 can be considered full-length scorelines, each having the same length. Some of the scorelines do not extend significantly toward the heel due to the sloping nature of the top line 1507 of iron-type golf club heads and can be considered partial length scorelines. The central face plane 1521 extends parallel to the y- and z-axes and is located equidistant between the heel-most and toe-most ends of the full-length scoreline 1560. The striking face 1518 may include a sole return 1517 that extends rearwardly from the bottom of the striking face 1518 and forms part of the sole 1505 of the golf club head.

As shown in FIGS. 96-98, the striking face 1518 may include a constant thickness portion 1530 and a tapered heel portion 1540. As illustrated, constant thickness portion 1530 may have a substantially constant thickness. The score line is not considered when measuring the thickness of the striking face and considering whether that thickness is substantially constant. As previously indicated, the rear surface 1519 of the striking face 1518 may be supported by the damping element 702. In a preferred embodiment, damping element 702 abuts constant thickness portion 1530 of striking face 1518. Tapered heel portion 1540 extends from a tapered heel portion thickened end 1541 adjacent constant thickness portion 1530 to a tapered heel portion thinned end 1542 in a heel direction of thinned end 1542. In one example, the thin end may be located on the heel side of the heel most extended portion of the full length scoreline 1560. In one embodiment, the tapered heel portion 1540 may taper from a thicker end 1541 to a thinner end 1542 at a substantially constant rate. In other embodiments, the taper rate may vary along the length of tapered heel portion 1540. Constant thickness portion 1530 may extend over tapered heel portion 1540. An upper heel chamfer 1544 may be formed between the tapered heel portion 1540 and the constant thickness portion 1530 above the tapered heel portion 1540. Constant thickness portion 1530 may extend below tapered heel portion 1540. A lower heel chamfer 1543 may be formed between the tapered heel portion 1540 and the constant thickness portion 1530 below the tapered heel portion 1540.

The striking face 1518 may also include a tapered toe portion 1550. Tapered toe portion 1550 extends from tapered toe thicker end 1551 adjacent constant thickness portion 1530 toward tapered toe thinner end 1552 . In one example, the tapered toe thinned end 1552 is located in the toe-most direction of the full length scoreline 1560. In one embodiment, the tapered toe thinned end 1552 has an arcuate shaped border, as shown in FIGS. 96-98. In one example, constant thickness portion 1530 extends below tapered toe portion 1550. In one example, constant thickness section 1530 extends over tapered toe section 1550. In one example, constant thickness portion 1530 extends around the toe side of tapered toe portion 1550. In one embodiment, although not shown, a chamfer may be formed between the tapered toe portion 1550 and the constant thickness portion 1530.

In one example, constant thickness portion 1530 of striking face 1518 has a thickness CT greater than 1.5 mm and less than 2.5 mm. In one example, constant thickness portion 1530 of striking face 1518 has a thickness CT greater than 1.7 mm and less than 2.2 mm. In one example, the thickened end 1541 of the tapered heel portion 1540 has a heel offset H0 of less than 20 mm and greater than 1 mm from the central face plane 1521. In one example, thickened end 1541 of tarped heel portion 1540 has a heel offset H0 of less than 15 mm from central face plane 1521. In one example, the thickened end 1541 of the tapered heel portion 1540 has a heel offset H0 of less than 10 mm from the central face plane 1521. In one embodiment, the width HW of the tapered heel portion is greater than 5 mm and less than 30 mm. In one embodiment, the width HW of the tapered heel portion is greater than 10 mm and less than 25 mm. In one embodiment, the width HW of the tapered heel portion is greater than 15 mm and less than 20 mm. In one example, the height HH of thickened end 1541 of tapered heel portion 1540 is greater than 20 mm and less than 40 mm. In one example, the height HH of thickened end 1541 of tapered heel portion 1540 is greater than 25 mm and less than 40 mm. In one example, the height HH of thickened end 1541 of tapered heel portion 1540 is greater than 30 mm and less than 40 mm. In one example, the height HH of tapered heel portion 1540 decreases in the heel direction. In one example, tapered toe portion 1550 has a toe offset TO of less than 40 mm from central face plane 1521. In one example, tapered toe portion 1550 has a toe offset TO of less than 30 mm from central face plane 1521. In one example, tapered toe portion 1550 has a toe offset TO from central face plane 1521 of less than 15 mm. In one example, the damping element 702 has a damping offset DO of greater than 1 mm and less than 20 mm distally from the central face plane 1521. In one example, the damping element 702 has a damping offset DO of greater than 1 mm and less than 15 mm distally from the central face plane 1521. In one example, the damping element 702 has a damping offset DO of greater than 1 mm and less than 10 mm distally from the central face plane 1521. In one example, the damping element 702 has a damping offset DO greater than 1 mm and less than 5 mm distally from the central face plane 1521. In one example, the damping element 702 has a damping offset DO of 5 mm or less from the central face plane 1521. In other embodiments, the damping element 702 has a damping offset DO greater than 5 mm from the central face plane 1521. In other embodiments, the damping element 702 has a damping offset DO greater than 10 mm from the central face plane 1521. In other embodiments, the damping element 702 has a damping offset DO greater than 15 mm from the central face plane 1521. In one example, as shown in FIG. 100, the damping element 702 has a damping offset DO of 5 mm or less in the heel direction from the central face plane 1521. In one example, the damping element 702 has a damping offset DO of 2 mm or less toward the heel from the central face plane 1521. In other embodiments, the geometric center 743 of the damping element 702 is aligned with the central face plane 1521, as shown in FIG. 101. In other embodiments, at least a portion of damping element 702 overlaps central face plane 1521. In one example, tapered toe portion 1550 has a decreasing thickness in the toe direction, which has a similar minimum thickness as tapered heel portion 1540. In one embodiment, toe offset TO is greater than heel offset HO. In one embodiment, toe offset TO is at least 125% of heel offset HO. In one embodiment, toe offset TO is at least 150% of heel offset HO. In one embodiment, toe offset TO is at least 175% of heel offset HO. In one embodiment, toe offset TO is at least 200% of heel offset HO.

As shown in FIGS. 102-104, golf club head 1500 may include a back cavity bridge 1571. As shown in FIGS. As shown in FIGS. 102 and 103, a back cavity bridge 1571 may be connected to the shelf 1514 and extend across the cavity 1520 from the top line area of the shelf 1514 to the toe area of the shelf 1514. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 104, a back cavity bridge 1571 may be connected to the shelf 1514 and extend across the cavity 1520 from the toe region of the shelf 1514 to the sole region of the shelf 1514. Back cavity bridge 1571 is a structural support that modifies acoustics. The characteristics of golf club head 1500 can attenuate the sound produced when hitting a golf ball. Further, the back cavity bridge 1571 attenuates the sound of the back cover 1600 when the back cover 1600 is impacted, and achieves uniform acoustic characteristics when the back cover 1600 is impacted at various positions. Back cavity bridge 1571 may be attached to shelf 1514 by adhesive, welding, or other suitable attachment means. As shown in FIGS. 103 and 104, back cavity bridge 1571 may be integrally formed with shelf 1514 across cavity 1520. In another example, as shown in FIG. 105, the shelf 1514 includes a protruding section 1573 that spans a portion of the cavity 1520 from the top line region of the shelf 1514 to the lower toe region of the shelf 1514. In another example, as shown in FIG. 106, the shelf 1514 includes a protruding section 1573 that spans a portion of the cavity 1520 from the toe region of the shelf 1514 to the sole region of the shelf 1514. The protruding section 1573 of the shelf 1514 reduces the area of the opening in the rear portion 1512 and provides greater stiffness to the shelf 1514, creating the desired acoustic characteristics of the golf club head 1500 when striking a golf ball. Furthermore, the protrusion 1573 of the shelf 1514 attenuates the sound of the back cover 1600 when the back cover 1600 receives an impact, and achieves uniform acoustic characteristics when the back cover 1600 receives impact at various locations. do.

Golf club head 1500 may include thermoset material 1575 on rear surface 1519 of striking face 1518. The thermoset material 1575 may be a self-leveling material, allowing the thermoset material 1575 to be placed in the cavity 1520 in an uncured state and flow onto the back surface 1519 of the ball striking face, including areas that are difficult to access. I can do it. The thermosetting material 1575 is then cured in place to provide sound deadening, increased stiffness of the striking face 1518 to adjust the coefficient of restitution, and increased strength of the striking face 1518. The thermoset material 1575 can be a low viscosity adhesive material such as DP105 from 3M. Thermoset material 1575 may be other materials such as DIP SEAL or FLEX SEAL. In one example, a thermoset material 1575 may be applied to the back surface 1519 of the striking face 1518 near the sole 1505. In other examples, a thermosetting material 1575 may be applied to the back surface 1519 of the striking face 1518 near the top line. In other examples, thermoset material 1575 may be applied to back surface 1519 of striking face 1518 near toe 1506. In other embodiments, thermoset material 1575 may be applied to the entire back surface 1519 of striking face 1518. Once cured, the thickness of thermoset material 1575 can be between 0.1 mm and 4.0 mm. More preferably, the thickness of thermoset material 1575 may be between 0.5 mm and 2.0 mm. In other embodiments, a thermoset material 1575 may be applied to the back cover 1600 to dampen the sound of the back cover 1600 when the back cover 1600 is impacted and the back cover 1600 is impacted at various locations. Uniform acoustic characteristics can be achieved when Thermoset material 1575 may have a hardness of between about 30 Shore D and about 50 Shore D when cured. More preferably, thermoset material 1575 may have a hardness of about 40 Shore D when cured. Thermoset material 1575 may include a filler having a different density than thermoset material 1575 to provide overall weight adjustment of golf club head 1500, weight distribution to different areas within golf club head 1500, Alternatively, additional damping of the golf club head 1500 or back cover 1600 may be achieved.

Although particular embodiments and aspects have been described herein and particular examples have been shown, the scope of the invention is not limited to those particular embodiments and examples. Those skilled in the art will recognize other embodiments or modifications consistent with the scope and spirit of the invention. Therefore, the specific structures, acts, or media are disclosed as example examples only. The scope of the invention is defined by the accompanying utility model claims and any equivalents.

702 Damping element 743 Geometric center of damping element 1300A Golf club head 1301 Peripheral portion 1304 Heel 1305 Sole 1306 Toe 1307 Top line 1308 Cradle 1308A Cradle 1310, 1311 Weight member 1312 Back portion 1318 Hitting face 1319 Back surface 1320 Cavity 1362 support arm 1362A Support arm 1366 Support arm 1366A Support arm 1367A, 1367B Opening 1368A Rib 1400A Golf club head 1401 Peripheral portion 1404 Heel 1406 Toe 1408 Cradle 1408A Cradle 1410, 1411 Weight member 1462 Support arm 1462A Support arm 1467A, 1 467B Opening 1468 Fastener 1469 Support arm Receptacle 1500 Golf club head 1501 Peripheral portion 1504 Heel 1505 Sole 1506 Toe 1507 Top line 1508 Cradle 1512 Rear portion 1513 Central projection 1514 Shelf 1514 Shelf 1517 Sole return 1518 Batting face 1519 Back surface 1520 Cavity 1521 Center face Plane 1530 Constant thickness part 1540 Tapered heel portion 1541 Heel portion thick end 1542 Heel portion thin end 1543 Lower heel chamfer 1544 Upper heel chamfer 1550 Toe portion 1551 Toe portion thick end 1552 Toe portion thin end 1560 Overall length score line 1562 Support arm 1571 Back cavity bridge 1573 Projecting section 1575 Thermosetting material 1600 Back cover 1602 Central recess 1604 Heel leg 1606 Toe leg 1610 Reinforcement member

Claims (20)

In golf club heads,
a hitting face;
a peripheral portion surrounding the striking face and extending rearwardly from the striking face;
a coordinate system centered on the center of gravity of the golf club head, the y-axis extending vertically perpendicular to the ground when the golf club head is in an address position at a predetermined loft and lie; an x-axis that is perpendicular and parallel to the plane of the striking face and extends to the heel of the golf club head, and a z-axis that is perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extends through the striking face. The above coordinate system having
a hosel configured to receive a shaft and positioned on a heel side of the golf club head, the heel side having a hosel positioned opposite a toe side;
The striking face has a front surface configured to strike a golf ball and a back surface opposite the front surface;
further comprising a damping element having a front surface and a back surface, the back surface of the damping element being opposite the front surface of the damping element;
the front surface of the damping element is in contact with the rear surface of the striking face;
the striking face has a first portion having a substantially constant thickness;
the hitting face has a plurality of score lines having the same length;
Further, parallel to the y-axis and the z-axis is a central face plane, and the central face plane is equidistant from the heel-side tips of the plurality of scorelines and the toe-side tips of the plurality of scorelines. death,
the front surface of the damping element is in contact with the first portion of the striking face;
A golf club head wherein the front surface of the damping element has a geometric center. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is aligned with the center face plane. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is located at a heel side damping offset distance of 5 mm or less from the central face plane. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is located at a toe damping offset distance of 5 mm or less from the central face plane. 5. The golf club head of claim 4, wherein the first portion of the striking face has a thickness greater than 1.5 mm and less than 2.5 mm. a shelf extending inward from the peripheral portion;
a back cover attached to the shelf so as to seal the cavity of the golf club head;
The golf club head of claim 1, further comprising a rear cavity bridge extending across the cavity from one area of the shelf to another area of the shelf. a shelf extending inward from the peripheral portion;
a back cover attached to the shelf for sealing the cavity of the golf club head;
The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the shelf includes a protruding portion that spans the cavity from one area of the shelf to another area of the shelf. a shelf extending inward from the peripheral portion;
2. The golf club head of claim 1, further comprising a back cover attached to the shelf to seal a cavity in the golf club head, the back cover comprising a thermoplastic material. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the back surface of the striking face comprises a thermoset material. the thermosetting material is applied to the back surface of the striking face in an uncured state;
The golf club head of claim 9, wherein the thermoset material is then cured to a thickness of 0.1 mm to 4.0 mm. 11. The golf club head of claim 10, wherein the thermoset material includes a filler material. In golf club heads,
a hitting face;
a peripheral portion surrounding the striking face and extending rearwardly from the striking face;
a coordinate system centered on the center of gravity of the golf club head, the y-axis extending vertically perpendicular to the ground when the golf club head is in an address position at a predetermined loft and lie; an x-axis that is perpendicular and parallel to the plane of the striking face and extends to the heel of the golf club head, and a z-axis that is perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extends through the striking face. The above coordinate system having
a hosel configured to receive a shaft and positioned on a heel side of the golf club head, the heel side having a hosel positioned opposite a toe side;
The striking face has a front surface configured to strike a golf ball and a back surface opposite the front surface;
further comprising a damping element having a front surface and a back surface, the back surface of the damping element being opposite the front surface of the damping element;
the front surface of the damping element is in contact with the rear surface of the striking face;
the striking face has a first portion having a substantially constant thickness;
the hitting face has a plurality of score lines having the same length;
Further, parallel to the y-axis and the z-axis is a central face plane, and the central face plane is equidistant from the heel-side tips of the plurality of scorelines and the toe-side tips of the plurality of scorelines. death,
The peripheral portion includes a sole extending rearwardly from the bottom of the hitting face, a top line extending rearwardly from the top of the hitting face, and a back portion extending upwardly from the sole and spaced apart from the hitting face. and wherein the striking face and the peripheral portion define a cavity, the damping element being within the cavity, and
the front surface of the damping element is in contact with the first portion of the striking face;
the front surface of the damping element has a geometric center;
A golf club head wherein at least a portion of the damping element overlaps the central face plane. 13. The golf club head of claim 12, wherein the geometric center of the front surface of the damping element is located at a heel damping offset distance of 5 mm or less from the central face plane. 14. The golf club head of claim 13, wherein the first portion of the striking face has a thickness greater than 1.5 mm and less than 2.5 mm.
a shelf extending inward from the peripheral portion;
a back cover attached to the shelf for sealing the cavity of the golf club head;
15. The golf club head of claim 14, wherein the shelf includes a protruding portion that spans the cavity from one area of the shelf to another area of the shelf. 15. The golf club head of claim 14, wherein the back surface of the striking face comprises a thermoset material. the thermosetting material is applied to the back surface of the striking face in an uncured state;
17. The golf club head of claim 16, wherein the thermoset material is then cured to a thickness of 0.1 mm to 4.0 mm. 17. The golf club head of claim 16, wherein the thermoset material includes a filler material. The striking face has a second portion, the second portion of the striking face is positioned on the heel side of the central face plane, and the second portion of the striking face is located at a thickened end of the second portion. 15. The golf club head of claim 14, having a thickness that tapers from a maximum thickness at the thinner end of the second portion to a minimum thickness at the thinner end of the second portion. The striking face has a third portion, the third portion of the striking face is positioned on the toe side of the central face plane, and the third portion of the striking face is located at a heel end of the third portion. 20. The golf club head of claim 19, having a thickness that tapers from a maximum thickness to a minimum thickness at the toe end of the third portion.

Images