KR102412636B1 - Golf Club Heads with Optimized Characteristics and Related Methods - Google Patents

Abstract

Embodiments of a golf club head having optimized properties including optimizing the head center of gravity height and depth with respect to head volume and mass are presented herein. Other examples and related methods are also disclosed herein.

Description

Golf Club Heads with Optimized Characteristics and Related Methods

Cross-reference to related applications

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/365,133, filed on July 21, 2016, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/404,602, filed on October 5, 2016, filed on March 14, 2013 U.S. Patent Application No. 14/836,729, filed on August 26, 2015, is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/413,684, filed January 24, 2017, filed on August 26, 2015 . U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/413,684 also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/286,899, filed January 25, 2016. The contents of all aforementioned applications are fully incorporated herein by reference.

technical field

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present disclosure relates generally to sports equipment, and more particularly to golf club heads with optimized properties and related methods.

Golf club heads often include different features that may be designed or configured to enhance one or more of their performance characteristics. However, there is an inherent interaction between these different features, so that adjusting or configuring one feature may intrinsically change another feature often unfavorably. For example, expanding the strikeface of a golf club to provide a larger impact area may adversely change the location of the center of gravity of the golf club, and the interaction between features with different features Unintended performance results may result if not constructed or designed in a balanced manner to account for

In view of the above, further refinements regarding golf club characteristics balanced with respect to each other will improve the performance of the golf club.

The present disclosure may be better understood from a reading of the following detailed description of examples of embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
1 illustrates a front view of a golf club head in accordance with the present disclosure;
FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional side view of a golf club head taken along line II-II of FIG. 1 ;
3 shows a bottom view of the golf club head of FIGS. 1 and 2 ;
4 depicts a flow diagram of a method that may be used to provide, form, and/or manufacture a golf club head in accordance with the present disclosure.
FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional side view of the upper transition boundary of the golf club head along line II-II of FIG. 1 ;
FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional side view of the posterior transition boundary of the golf club head along line II-II of FIG. 1 ;
FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional side view of the golf club head taken along line II-II of FIG. 1 ;
8 illustrates a rear perspective view of a golf club head in accordance with the present disclosure.
FIG. 9 shows a cross-sectional side view of the golf club head along line IX-IX of FIG. 8 ;

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

In the description and claims, the terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," etc., if present, are used to distinguish similar elements, and are not necessarily intended to describe a particular sequential or chronological order. . It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, such that the embodiments described herein may be operated in sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein, for example, . Moreover, the terms “comprise” and “have” and any variations thereof are intended to cover the non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus comprising a list of elements necessarily includes these elements. It may include, but is not limited to, other elements that are not explicitly listed or unique to such a process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus.

In the description and claims, the terms "left", "right", "before", "after", "above", "below", "above", "below", etc., where present, are used for descriptive purposes and are necessarily perpetual. It is not intended to describe relative positions that are The terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances so that the embodiments of the apparatus, methods, and/or articles of manufacture described herein are, for example, other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. It should be understood that the orientation allows operation.

The terms “couples”, “coupled”, “couples”, “coupled” and the like are to be understood broadly and refer to connecting two or more elements mechanically or otherwise. The bonding (whether mechanical or otherwise) may be for any length of time, eg permanent or semi-permanent or only momentary.

The absence of the words "removably", "removable", etc. in the vicinity of the word "coupled" or the like does not mean that the combination or the like is removable or non-removable.

As defined herein, two or more elements are "integral" if they are constructed from the same piece of material. As defined herein, two or more elements are "non-integral" if each of them is composed of a different piece of material.

In one example, a golf club head may include a head body including a head interior and a hosel structure. The head inner portion may be defined by a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head top portion, and a head sole portion. The hosel structure may have a bore for receiving a golf club shaft, wherein the bore may have a hosel shaft. The golf club head extends through the head center of gravity, from the head heel portion to the head toe portion and with respect to the head horizontal axis, the hosel axis, parallel to the ground plane when the golf club head is in an address position above the ground plane. It may also include hosel moments of inertia, and horizontal moments of inertia about the head horizontal axis. The horizontal moment of inertia may be at least 39% of the hosel moment of inertia.

In one example, a golf club head may include a head body including a head inner portion and a hosel structure. The head inner portion may be defined by a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head top portion, and a head sole portion. The hosel structure may have a bore for receiving a golf club shaft, wherein the bore may have a hosel shaft. The golf club head has a head center of gravity, a head vertical axis perpendicular to the ground plane when the golf club head is at an address position above the ground plane, and a hosel moment of inertia about the hosel axis, extending through the head center of gravity from the head top portion to the head sole portion; and a normal moment of inertia about the head vertical axis. The vertical moment of inertia may be at least 59% of the hosel moment of inertia.

In one embodiment, a method for providing a golf club head may include providing a head body having a head inner portion and a hosel structure. The head inner portion may be defined by a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head top portion, and a head sole portion. The hosel structure may have a bore for receiving a golf club shaft, wherein the bore may have a hosel shaft. The method may also include coupling a golf club shaft to the hosel structure. The head horizontal axis extends from the head heel portion to the head toe portion through the head center of gravity of the golf club head, and may be parallel to the ground plane when the golf club head is in an address position above the ground plane. The head vertical axis extends through the head center of gravity from the head top portion to the head sole portion and may be perpendicular to the ground plane when the golf club head is in an address position above the ground plane. Furthermore, providing the head body includes: (a) setting the horizontal moment of inertia about the head horizontal axis to be at least 39% of the hosel moment of inertia about the hosel axis, or (b) setting the vertical moment of inertia about the head vertical axis to the hosel and setting it to be greater than or equal to 59% of the hosel moment of inertia about the axis.

In one example, a golf club head is a hosel structure having a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head sole portion, a head top portion, and a bore for receiving a golf club shaft, wherein the bore defines a hosel axis It may include a head body including a hosel structure that may have. The golf club head may also include a striking surface at the front of the head and including the striking surface center point, a head volume measured in cc and comprising a head volume size greater than 420, and optimization characteristics. When the golf club head is in an address position above the ground plane, the head vertical axis extends through the head center of gravity and is orthogonal to the ground plane, and the head horizontal axis extends through the head center of gravity and is orthogonal to the head vertical axis. A loft plane of the golf club head may be tangent to the striking face center point. The front plane of the golf club head may extend through the striking face midpoint and be parallel to the hosel axis. The head depth plane extends through the striking face center point, and may be parallel to the head horizontal axis and perpendicular to the loft plane. The CG height axis may extend through the head center of gravity and intersect the head depth plane perpendicularly at the first intersection point. The head CG height of the head center of gravity may be measured along the CG height axis between the head center of gravity and the first intersection point. The head CG depth of the head center of gravity is determined between (a) a second intersection located at the intersection between the front plane and the ground plane, and (b) a third intersection located at the intersection between the head vertical axis and the ground plane, It can be measured parallel to the ground plane and orthogonal to the front plane. The optimization characteristic can be defined by the sum of the ratio between (a) the head volume size and (b) the absolute value of the head CG height divided by the head CG depth. The optimization characteristic may be greater than or equal to 425.

In one example, a golf club head is a hosel structure having a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head sole portion, a head top portion, and a bore for receiving a golf club shaft, wherein the bore defines a hosel axis It may include a head body including a hosel structure that may have. The golf club head may also include a striking surface at the front of the head and including a striking surface center point, and a head center of gravity. When the golf club head is in an address position above the ground plane, the head vertical axis extends through the head center of gravity and is orthogonal to the ground plane, and the head horizontal axis extends through the head center of gravity and is orthogonal to the head vertical axis. The loft plane of the golf club head may be tangent to the striking face center point. The front plane of the golf club head may extend through the striking face midpoint and be parallel to the hosel axis. A top plane of the golf club head may extend through the striking face midpoint and be parallel to the ground plane. The head depth plane extends through the striking face center point, and may be parallel to the head horizontal axis and perpendicular to the loft plane. The CG height axis may extend through the head center of gravity and intersect the head depth plane perpendicularly at the first intersection point. The head CG height of the head center of gravity may be measured along the CG height axis between the head center of gravity and the first intersection point. The head CG depth of the head center of gravity is determined between (a) a second intersection located at the intersection between the front plane and the ground plane, and (b) a third intersection located at the intersection between the head vertical axis and the ground plane, It can be measured parallel to the ground plane and orthogonal to the front plane. The head CG upper bound may be measured along the head vertical axis between the head center of gravity and a fourth intersection located at the intersection between the head vertical axis and the upper plane. The absolute value of the head CG height may be 2.54 mm or less. The head CG depth may be greater than or equal to 40.64 mm. In other embodiments, the head CG depth may be greater than approximately 41 mm, and less than approximately 102 mm. In other embodiments, the head CG depth is greater than approximately 42 mm, 43 mm, 44 mm, 45 mm, 46 mm, 47 mm, 48 mm, 49 mm, 50 mm, 55 mm, 60 mm, 65 mm, or 70 mm. can be The head CG upper limit may be approximately 0 mm to approximately -30 mm. In other embodiments, the head CG upper limit is approximately -8 mm, -9 mm, -10 mm, -11 mm, -12 mm, -13 mm, -14 mm, -15 mm, -20 mm, or -25 mm. may be less than

In one embodiment, a method for providing a golf club head comprises a hosel structure having a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head sole portion, a head top portion, and a bore for receiving a golf club shaft. , the bore may include providing a head body comprising a hosel structure having a hosel shaft. The method may also include engaging the striking surface to the front of the head, and setting an optimization characteristic of the golf club head. The striking face includes the striking face center point. The head volume of a golf club head may be measured in cc and may include a head volume size greater than 420. When the golf club head is in an address position above the ground plane, the head vertical axis may extend through the head center of gravity and may be orthogonal to the ground plane. The head horizontal axis may extend through the head center of gravity and may be orthogonal to the head vertical axis. The loft plane of the golf club head may be tangent to the striking face center point. The front plane of the golf club head may extend through the striking face midpoint and be parallel to the hosel axis. The head depth plane extends through the striking face center point, and may be parallel to the head horizontal axis and perpendicular to the loft plane. The CG height axis may extend through the head center of gravity and may intersect the head depth plane perpendicularly at the first intersection point. The head CG height of the head center of gravity may be measured along the CG height axis between the head center of gravity and the first intersection point. The head CG depth of the head center of gravity is determined between (a) a second intersection located at the intersection between the front plane and the ground plane, and (b) a third intersection located at the intersection between the head vertical axis and the ground plane, It can be measured parallel to the ground plane and orthogonal to the front plane. The optimization characteristic may be set by a value obtained by adding a ratio between (a) head volume size and (b) a value obtained by dividing the head CG depth by the absolute value of the head CG height, where the optimization characteristic may be 425 or more.

In one example, a golf club head may include a head body, a face portion, a head center of gravity, and at least one of a first performance characteristic or a second performance characteristic. wherein the head body is a hosel structure having a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head sole portion, a head top portion, and a bore for receiving a golf club shaft, wherein the bore may have a hosel shaft. It may include a hosel structure. The face portion may be at the front of the head and may include a striking face center point, a striking face perimeter, and a face height defined by the striking face perimeter. When the golf club head is in an address position above the ground plane, the head vertical axis extends through the head center of gravity and is orthogonal to the ground plane, and the head horizontal axis extends through the head center of gravity and is orthogonal to the head vertical axis. The loft plane of the golf club head may be tangent to the striking face center point. The front plane of the golf club head may extend through the striking face midpoint and be parallel to the hosel axis. The head depth plane extends through the striking face center point, and may be parallel to the head horizontal axis and perpendicular to the loft plane. The CG height axis may extend through the head center of gravity and intersect the head depth plane perpendicularly at the first intersection point. The head CG height of the head center of gravity may be measured along the CG height axis between the head center of gravity and the first intersection point. The head CG depth of the head center of gravity is determined between (a) a second intersection located at the intersection between the front plane and the ground plane, and (b) a third intersection located at the intersection between the head vertical axis and the ground plane, It can be measured parallel to the ground plane and orthogonal to the front plane. The face height may be between approximately 33 mm and approximately 71 mm, measured parallel to the plane of the rope. The first performance characteristic may include a head CG height that is approximately 5.08 mm or less. The second performance characteristic may include a CG performance ratio of 0.56 or less, as defined by (a) 76.2 mm minus face height divided by (b) head CG height.

In one example, a golf club head may include a head body, a face portion, and a head center of gravity. The head body is a hosel structure having a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head sole portion, a head top portion, and a bore for receiving a golf club shaft, wherein the bore has a hosel shaft. may include The hosel structure may include a hosel diameter. The face portion may be coupled to the front of the head and may include a striking surface having a striking surface center point, a striking surface perimeter, and a face height. When the golf club head is in an address position above the ground plane, the head vertical axis extends through the head center of gravity and is orthogonal to the ground plane, and the head horizontal axis extends through the head center of gravity and is orthogonal to the head vertical axis. The loft plane of the golf club head may be tangent to the striking face center point. The front plane of the golf club head may extend through the striking face midpoint and be parallel to the hosel axis. A top plane of the golf club head may extend through the striking face midpoint and be parallel to the ground plane. The head depth plane extends through the striking face center point, and may be parallel to the head horizontal axis and perpendicular to the loft plane. The CG height axis may extend through the head center of gravity and intersect the head depth plane perpendicularly at the first intersection point. The head CG height of the head center of gravity may be measured along the CG height axis between the head center of gravity and the first intersection point. The head CG depth of the head center of gravity is determined between (a) a second intersection located at the intersection between the front plane and the ground plane, and (b) a third intersection located at the intersection between the head vertical axis and the ground plane, It can be measured parallel to the ground plane and orthogonal to the front plane. The head CG upper limit may be measured along the head vertical axis between the head center of gravity and a fourth intersection located at the intersection between the head vertical axis and the upper plane. The face height may be between approximately 33 mm and approximately 71 mm, as defined by the perimeter of the striking face and measured parallel to the plane of the rope. The CG performance ratio between (a) 76.2 mm minus the face height and (b) head CG depth is 0.56 or less. The head body may include a driver-type body. The head volume of the golf club head may be between approximately 420 cc and approximately 470 cc. The head weight of a golf club head may be between about 185 grams and about 225 grams. The head CG height may be between approximately 0 mm and approximately 3.18 mm. The head CG depth may be between approximately 25 mm and approximately 102 mm. In other embodiments, the head CG depth may be greater than approximately 41 mm, and less than approximately 102 mm. In other embodiments, the head CG depth is greater than approximately 42 mm, 43 mm, 44 mm, 45 mm, 46 mm, 47 mm, 48 mm, 49 mm, 50 mm, 55 mm, 60 mm, 65 mm, or 70 mm. can be The head CG upper limit may be approximately 0 mm to approximately -30 mm. In other embodiments, the head CG upper limit is approximately -8 mm, -9 mm, -10 mm, -11 mm, -12 mm, -13 mm, -14 mm, -15 mm, -20 mm, or -25 mm. may be less than The head body may include a weight structure positioned toward a sole portion and a rear portion of the head body.

In one embodiment, a method for providing a golf club head comprises a hosel structure having a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head sole portion, a head top portion, and a bore for receiving a golf club shaft. , wherein the bore has a hosel shaft. The method may also include coupling a face portion to a head front portion, wherein the face portion includes a striking surface having a striking face center point, a perimeter of the striking surface, and a face height defined by the perimeter of the striking surface. The method may further include setting at least one of a first performance characteristic of the golf club head or a second performance characteristic of the golf club head. When the golf club head is in an address position above the ground plane, the head vertical axis extends through the head center of gravity of the golf club head, is orthogonal to the ground plane, and the head horizontal axis extends through the head center of gravity and is orthogonal to the head vertical axis do. The loft plane of the golf club head may be tangent to the striking face center point. The front plane of the golf club head may extend through the striking face midpoint and be parallel to the hosel axis. The head depth plane extends through the striking face center point, and may be parallel to the head horizontal axis and perpendicular to the loft plane. The CG height axis may extend through the head center of gravity and may intersect the head depth plane perpendicularly at the first intersection point. The head CG height of the golf club head may be measured along the CG height axis between the head center of gravity and the first intersection. The head CG depth of the head center of gravity is determined between (a) a second intersection located at the intersection between the front plane and the ground plane, and (b) a third intersection located at the intersection between the head vertical axis and the ground plane, It can be measured parallel to the ground plane and orthogonal to the front plane. The face height may be between approximately 33 mm and approximately 71 mm, measured parallel to the plane of the rope. The first performance characteristic may include a head CG height that is approximately 5.08 mm or less. The second performance characteristic may include a CG performance ratio of 0.56 or less, as defined by (a) 76.2 mm minus face height divided by (b) head CG height.

Other examples and embodiments are also disclosed herein. Such examples and embodiments may be found in the drawings, claims, and/or this description.

Referring to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a golf club head 1000 including a head body 1100 and a face portion 1200 . The face portion 1200 includes a striking surface 1210 . FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional side view of golf club head 1000 taken along line II-II of FIG. 1 . 3 shows a bottom view of the golf club head 1000 . 1-3 show a golf club head 1000 in an address position relative to a ground plane 1010 , wherein the hosel shaft 1710 is a ground plane 1010 with respect to a front view of the golf club head 1000 . at a 60 degree angle to ( FIG. 1 ), where hosel axis 1710 is substantially orthogonal to ground plane 1010 with respect to a side view of golf club head 1000 ( FIG. 2 ).

In this embodiment, head body 1100 and face portion 1200 include separate pieces of material joined together via, for example, a welding process. However, in another example, the face portion 1200 may include a head front portion 1110 , a head top portion 1120 , a head sole portion 1130 , a head heel portion 1140 , a head toe portion 1150 , and/or a head rear portion It may include a single piece of material having one or more portions of the head body 1100 , such as portion 2160 . The head front surface 1160 of the golf club head 1000 includes a striking surface 1210 , a face portion 1200 , and at least a portion of the head front portion 1110 . In some embodiments, the head front surface 1160 may also include at least a portion of the head sole portion 1130 . In the same or different embodiments, the head front portion 1110 may include a striking surface 1210 and/or a face portion 1200 .

The face portion 1200 includes a striking face 1210 having a striking face center point 1211 , a striking face perimeter 1212 , and a face height 1213 . The striking face center point 1211 is located in this example at the geometric center point of the striking face perimeter 1212 and at the midpoint of the face height 1213 . In the same or other examples, striking face center point 1211 may also be centered with respect to machined impact zone 1250 , which may be defined by the area of groove 1259 of striking face 1210 . As another approach, the striking face center point 1211 may be located according to the regulations of a golf management organization such as the United States Golf Association (USGA). For example, the striking face center point 1211 is determined by the USGA Procedure for Measuring the Flexibility of a Golf Clubhead (USGA-TPX3004, Revision 1.0.0, May 1, 2008) (http: may be determined according to section 6.1 of //www.usga.org/equipment/testing/protocols/Procedure-For-Measuring-The-Flexibility-Of-A-Golf-Club-Head/ (“Flexibility Procedure”) .

Golf club head 1000 includes a loft plane 2270 ( FIG. 2 ) at least tangent to striking face center point 1211 at striking face 1210 . Face height 1213 may be measured parallel to loft plane 2270 between striking surface top 1215 and striking surface bottom 1216 around striking surface perimeter 1212, in this example or other examples, approximately 33 millimeters. (mm) to approximately 71 mm.

The striking surface perimeter 1212 including the striking surface upper end 1215 and the striking surface lower portion 1216 defining the face height 1213 need not define the entirety of the face portion 1200 . For example, as shown in FIG. 1 , striking surface 1210 is defined by striking surface perimeter 1212 , and is only a portion of face portion 1200 . In some examples, striking surface 1210 can include a roll radius and/or a bulge radius, where striking surface perimeter 1212 is an outline of face portion 1200 . 1210 may be defined along a transition boundary deviating from a longitudinal radius of curvature and/or a transverse radius of curvature. For example, FIG. 2 highlights a vertical longitudinal radius of curvature 2170 that extends along striking face 1210 , and how the head front face 1160 deviates from the vertical longitudinal radius of curvature 2170 at the upper transition boundary. It includes an enlarged view of a portion of the upper transitional boundary of golf club head 1000 , showing where upper end 1215 is located. Figure 2 highlights a vertical longitudinal radius of curvature 2170 that extends vertically along striking face 1210, and how the head front face 1160 deviates from the vertical longitudinal radius of curvature 2170 at the lower transition boundary. Also included is an enlarged view of a portion of the lower transition boundary of golf club head 1000 , showing where 1216 is located.

In the same or other embodiments, the striking surface perimeter 1212 may be defined with respect to the edge of the strikeplate comprising the striking surface. For example, the face portion 1200 includes a striking plate 1220 , the striking plate 1210 forms an outer surface of the face plate 1220 , and the striking plate 1220 includes the striking plate edge 1221 . Accordingly, it is connected to the front part 1110 of the head. In this example, striking plate edge 1221 defines at least a portion of striking surface perimeter 1212 , including upper and lower sections of striking surface perimeter 1212 , where striking surface upper end 1215 and striking surface lower end 1212 . 1216 are each positioned to define a face height 1213 , although other examples exist where the striking plate edge of the striking plate may define most or all of the perimeter of the striking surface of the striking surface.

As shown in FIG. 2 , golf club head 1000 also includes a head center of gravity (CG) 2500 , a head depth plane 2310 , and a CG height axis 2320 , where the head depth plane ( 2310 extends through striking face center point 1211 and is perpendicular to loft plane 2270 , where CG height axis 2320 extends through head center of gravity 2500 and perpendicular to head depth at intersection 2801 . Intersect plane 2310 . Golf club head 1000 also includes an upper plane 2330 extending through striking face midpoint 1211 and parallel to ground plane 1010 .

Head center of gravity 2500 includes CG height 2520 and CG depth 2510 locating head center of gravity 2500 relative to golf club head 1000 . In this example, CG height 2520 may be measured along CG height axis 2320 between head center of gravity 2500 and intersection 2801 . CG depth 2510 may be measured parallel to ground plane 1010 and between intersections 2802 and 2803 , as shown in FIG. 2 . In this example, intersection 2802 is defined by the intersection between ground plane 1010 and front plane 2280, where front plane 2280 extends through striking face center point 1211, and the hosel axis ( 1710 , and orthogonal to the ground plane 1010 when the golf club head 1000 is in the address position. Furthermore, intersection 2803 is defined by the intersection between ground plane 1010 and head vertical axis 1610 , where head vertical axis 1610 extends through head center of gravity 2500 and golf club head 1000 . ) is orthogonal to the ground plane 1010 when in the address position. Head center of gravity 2500 can also be positioned relative to ground plane 1010 , where head CG elevation 2530 of head center of gravity 2500 is between weight center 2750 and ground plane 1010, the head It may be measured along a vertical axis 1610 . Head center of gravity 2500 may also be positioned relative to head CG upper limit 2540 , which is at the intersection between head center of gravity 2500 and head vertical axis 1610 and upper plane 2330 . Between the positioned fourth intersections 2805 , it can be measured along the head vertical axis 1610 . The head CG upper limit 2540 may be a positive value when measured above the upper plane 2330 , or a negative value when measured below the upper plane 2330 .

The head body 1100 of the golf club head 1000 also includes a hosel structure 1217 ( FIG. 1 ) and a hosel shaft 1710 extending along the center of the bore of the hosel structure 1217 . In this example, the hosel engagement mechanism of the golf club head 1000 includes a hosel structure 1217 and a shaft sleeve 1411 , where the shaft sleeve 1411 may be coupled to an end of the golf shaft 1410 . The shaft sleeve 1411 may engage the hosel structure 1217 in a plurality of configurations, thereby allowing the golf shaft 1410 to be secured to the hosel structure 1217 at a plurality of angles relative to the hosel axis 1710 . do. However, there may be other examples in which the shaft 1410 may be non-adjustably secured to the hosel structure 1217 .

A golf club head according to the present disclosure may be configured to exhibit one or more optimization characteristics that optimize or balance its performance. For example, one characteristic of a golf club head that the design of the present invention seeks to optimize is face height and/or face size. Maximizing the face height and/or face size of the golf club head can result in a more forgiving club head that produces better results for golf shots hitting eccentrically at the striking face center point of the target impact of the striking face. It can have a number of benefits, such as increasing the area. In addition, a larger height and/or size striking surface may provide better energy transfer to the golf ball at impact with it, and thus the characteristic time of the golf club head to achieve longer distance golf shots. time) or "spring effect". In some examples, the height or size of the striking surface may be increased to achieve a characteristic time limit set by a golf management organization, such as a characteristic time limit of 239 microseconds (μs) set by the USGA in its flexibility procedure.

However, indiscriminately increasing face height and/or size adversely affects performance in other areas, such as with respect to the golf ball's launch angle, ball spin, and/or ball velocity at impact with the striking surface. can affect For example, increasing the face height and/or size may decrease the CG depth between the center of gravity and the striking face center point of the golf club head to drive the center of gravity forward, thereby resulting in dynamic loft of the golf club head. and thus the launch angle of the golf ball. As another example, increasing the face height and/or size may raise the CG height between the center of gravity and the head depth plane to elevate the center of gravity away from the sole of the golf club head, thereby raising the striking surface and golf club head. Suppresses the gear effect between the balls, thus preventing the golf club head from reducing the amount of backspin of the golf ball generated at impact, so that the ball will travel due to the backspin decrease the distance.

In view of the above, the height or size of the face of the golf club head should be balanced with respect to the location of the center of gravity. With respect to the golf club head 1000 , the striking surface 1210 may include an increased face size and/or face height 1213 to provide a greater impact area and greater energy transfer to the golf ball 2900 . is increased. In particular, golf club head 1000 may be configured such that face height 1213 may be between approximately 33 mm and approximately 71 mm to provide greater impact area and energy transfer upon impact with golf ball 2900 . have. In some examples, the area of the striking surface 1210, including the increased face area, may be between approximately 23.6 square centimeters (cm ² ) and approximately 45.2 cm ² .

Notwithstanding the increased face size and/or face height 1213 described above, the golf club head 1000 has a CG height 2520 that increases towards the head top 1120 and/or the head depth plane 2310 It still limits deflection too far from it. For example, golf club head 1000 includes a first optimization characteristic that satisfies Equation 1 below:

｜CG height ₂₅₂₀ ｜≤ 5.08 mm [Relational expression 1]

There may be examples where the CG height 2520 may be the limit of Equation 1 of approximately 0 mm to a maximum of 5.08 mm. CG height 2520 may also have a maximum of approximately 4.45 mm, 3.81 mm, or 3.18 mm in other examples. In some implementations, the first optimization characteristic may reduce the backspin of the golf ball 2900 via a gear effect between the striking surface 1210 and the golf ball 2900 for better performance. The head center of gravity 2500 is below the depth plane 2310 such that the CG height 2520 is shown in FIG. 2 as extending between the depth plane 2310 and the head sole portion 1130 , but the head center of gravity. 2500 may be above the depth plane 2310 , so there may be embodiments in which the CG height 2520 extends between the depth plane 2310 and the head top 1120 while still satisfying Equation 1 above. . In some implementations, the head CG upper limit 2540 may be between approximately 0 mm and approximately -30 mm. In other embodiments, the head CG upper limit 2540 is approximately -8 mm, -9 mm, -10 mm, -11 mm, -12 mm, -13 mm, -14 mm, -15 mm, -20 mm, or It may be less than -25 mm.

Moreover, in view of the increased face size and/or face height 1213 described above, the golf club head 1000 still limits movement of the center of gravity 2500 toward the striking surface 1212 , thereby CG Prevents the depth 2510 from being excessively reduced. For example, golf club head 1000 includes a second optimization characteristic that satisfies Equation 2:

[관계식 2]

[Relational Expression 2]

Accordingly, the relationship between face height 1213 and CG depth 2510 maintains the second optimization characteristic below 0.56, thereby reducing the amount by which CG depth 2510 can decrease towards striking surface 1210 . It is balanced according to Equation 2 to limit. There may be examples where the CG depth 2510 may be between approximately 25 mm and approximately 102 mm. In the same or another example, the CG depth 2510 may be at least approximately 39 mm. In the same or another example, the CG depth 2510 may be greater than approximately 41 mm, and less than approximately 102 mm. In another example, the CG depth 2510 is approximately 42 mm, 43 mm, 44 mm, 45 mm, 46 mm, 47 mm, 48 mm, 49 mm, 50 mm, 55 mm, 60 mm, 65 mm, or 70 mm. may be in excess. In some implementations, the second optimization characteristic may increase or optimize at least one of the dynamic loft of the golf club head 1000 or the launch angle of the golf ball 2900 at impact therebetween.

In some examples, golf club head 1000 may be configured to include only one of the first or second optimization characteristics described above. For example, the golf club head 1000 may include the first optimization characteristic and not the second optimization characteristic, thus satisfying Expression 1 without having to satisfy Expression 2. As another example, the golf club head 1000 may include the second optimization characteristic and not the first optimization characteristic, thus satisfying Expression 2 without having to satisfy Expression 1. Moreover, there may be embodiments in which golf club head 1000 satisfies both of Relations 1 and 2, and thus includes first and second optimization characteristics.

The golf club head 1000 may also include a third optimization characteristic with respect to its head volume (HV) 2600 . In this example, the head body 1000 of the golf club head 1000 includes a drive-type body having a head volume of at least 420 cubic centimeters (cc), and thus a head volume size of at least 420. For example, the head body 1000 may include a head volume of 420 cc, and thus has a head volume size of 420 . As another example, golf club head 1000 may include a head volume of 460 cc, and thus has a head volume size of 460 cc. Golf club head 1000 may, in some embodiments, include a head volume of up to about 470 cc and/or a total head weight of between about 185 grams and about 225 grams. In some specific examples, the total head weight may be approximately 202 grams, and/or the head volume may be approximately 460 cc.

The third optimization may control the relationship between the position of the head volume 2600 and the center of gravity 2500, and may be defined to satisfy the following Relation 3:

[관계식 3]

[Relational Expression 3]

In some cases, the head volume 2600 may be increased to adjust the moment of inertia (MOI) of the golf club head 1000 , for example. However, an unrestricted increase in head volume can have adverse effects with respect to other properties of the golf club head. For example, increasing the head volume 2600 may shift the head center of gravity 2500 towards the head front 1110 , towards the head top 1120 , towards other undesired directions, and/or toward a desired center of gravity. shift away from the position or direction(s), thereby interfering with the performance of the golf club head 1000 . Such undesired changes in center of gravity position can detrimentally affect one or more characteristics of the golf club head, such as launch speed, launch angle, gear effect, backspin, and/or shot distance. Accordingly, the third optimization characteristic used to balance the relationship between the position of the head volume 2600 and the head center of gravity 2500 may be set to provide a desirable balanced attribute for the golf club head 1000 . . For example, the weight distribution of the golf club head 1000 may be configured to satisfy Relation 3 so that the golf club head 1000 exhibits the third optimization characteristic, such that the striking surface 1210 and the golf ball 2900 Allows the head volume 2600 to be increased for greater moment of inertia and greater energy transfer to the golf ball 2900 upon golf impact between the two. In the same or other implementations, the weight distribution of the golf club head 1000 limits the CG depth 2510 from decreasing towards the head front 1110 due to the increased head volume 2600, thus resulting in golf impact. may be configured to increase at least one of the dynamic loft of the striking surface 1210 or the launch angle of the golf ball 2900 upon operation. Moreover, the weight distribution of the golf club head 1000 limits the CG height 2520 from increasing towards the head top 1120 as a result of the increased head volume 2600, thereby limiting the CG height 2520 at golf impact. It may be configured to reduce the backspin of the golf ball 2900 via a gear effect between the 1210 and the golf ball 2900 .

In consideration of the above, in order to obtain the third optimization characteristic according to Equation 3, the CG depth 2510 may be configured to be 40.64 mm or more. In other embodiments, the CG depth 2510 may be greater than approximately 41 mm, and less than approximately 102 mm. In other embodiments, the CG depth 2510 is approximately 42 mm, 43 mm, 44 mm, 45 mm, 46 mm, 47 mm, 48 mm, 49 mm, 50 mm, 55 mm, 60 mm, 65 mm, or 70 mm. mm may be greater. In the same or other embodiments, the absolute value of CG height 2520 may be 2.54 mm or less. Note that the CG height 2520 is characterized as an absolute value, considering that the head center of gravity 2500 may be above or below the head depth plane 2310 in some embodiments. The head CG upper limit 2540 may be between approximately 0 mm and approximately -30 mm. In other embodiments, the head CG upper limit 2540 is approximately -8 mm, -9 mm, -10 mm, -11 mm, -12 mm, -13 mm, -14 mm, -15 mm, -20 mm, or It may be less than -25 mm. The third optimization characteristic has a lower bound of at least 425, although other embodiments exist in which the third optimization characteristic may be defined with respect to other lower bounds. For example, the third optimization characteristic may include a lower bound of at least 435 or 445 in some embodiments. In another example, the third optimization characteristic can include a lower bound of at least 460, at least 470, at least 480, at least 490, or at least 500. The location of the head center of gravity 2500 may also be designed or configured with respect to other features of the golf club head 1000 to satisfy relation 3 and/or obtain the third optimization characteristic. For example, the location of the head center of gravity 2500 can be configured such that the CG depth 2510 includes between about 25% and about 80% of the head depth length 2312 , where the head depth length 2312 is Measured from the striking face center point 1211 to the intersection of the outer portion of the head rear portion 2160 by the head depth plane 2310 . As another example, the location of the head center of gravity 2500 may be configured such that the CG height 2520 includes approximately 0% to approximately 13% of the CG height axis length 2322 , where the CG height axis length 2322 is ) is measured from the intersection of the outer portion of the head top portion 1120 by the CG height axis 2320 to the intersection portion of the outer portion of the head sole 1130 by the CG height axis 2320 .

The head CG depth 2510 and head CG height 2520 described above relate to a driver-type club head. In embodiments where the club head is a fairway wood type club head, the head CG depth 2510 may be configured to be 35 mm or greater. In another embodiment of a fairway wooded club head, the CG depth 2510 may be greater than approximately 35 mm, and less than approximately 90 mm. In another embodiment of a fairway wood type club head, the CG depth 2510 is approximately 34.5 mm, 35 mm, 36 mm, 37 mm, 38 mm, 39 mm, 40 mm, 41 mm, 42 mm, 43 mm, 44 mm. , 45 mm, or greater than 46 mm. Also, in embodiments where the club head is a fairway wood type club head, the head CG height 2520, or its absolute value, may be configured to be 12.8 mm or less. In another embodiment of a fairway wood type club head, the head CG height 2520, or its absolute value, is approximately 13.0 mm, 12.8 mm, 12.6 mm, 12.4 mm, 12.2 mm, 12.0 mm, 11.8 mm, 11.6 mm, 11.4 mm. , 11.2 mm, or less than 11.0 mm. In these embodiments, the volume of the fairway wooded club head may be between 300 cc and 400 cc and the mass of the fairway wooded club head may be between 190 and 240 grams.

Golf club head 1000 may also include a hosel diameter of hosel structure 1217 . The hosel diameter may be kept to a minimum and/or relatively unchanged from the hosel diameter of a corresponding regular golf club head. In some examples, the hosel diameter may be less than approximately 0.78 inches (20 mm). For example, the hosel diameter may be less than approximately 0.78 inches and greater than approximately 0.50 inches. A hosel diameter within this range may impart a performance benefit to the golf club head 1000 . When the hosel diameter is within this range, the hosel can have greater structural integrity, and the stress experienced in the hosel during a golf club swing can be reduced. In addition to having a hosel diameter within this range, golf club head 1000 may further include optimization characteristics with respect to center of gravity (CG) and moment of inertia (MOI) as described herein.

In other examples, the hosel diameter may be less than approximately 0.50 inches, 0.49 inches, 0.48 inches, 0.47 inches, 0.46 inches, 0.45 inches, 0.44 inches, 0.43 inches, 0.42 inches, 0.41 inches, or 0.40 inches. A hosel diameter of less than 0.50 inches may impart additional performance benefits to the golf club head 1000 . When the hosel diameter is minimized as described above, the aerodynamic properties of the golf club head 1000 may be improved as a result of reduced aerodynamic drag from the hosel structure 1217 . In addition to having a hosel diameter within this range, golf club head 1000 may further include optimization characteristics with respect to center of gravity (CG) and moment of inertia (MOI) as described herein.

The golf club head 1000 may also include a fourth optimization characteristic with respect to the balance between the hosel MOI 1711 ( FIG. 1 ) and the horizontal MOI 1811 ( FIG. 1 ). A hosel MOI 1711 is defined with respect to the hosel axis 1710 . The horizontal MOI 1811 extends from the head heel portion 1140 to the head toe portion 1150 through the head center of gravity 2500 , and when the golf club head 1000 is in an address position above the ground plane 1010 the ground It is defined with respect to the head horizontal axis 1810 parallel to the plane 1010 .

In some examples, the horizontal MOI 1811 is a golf club relative to the head horizontal axis 1810 when the striking surface 1210 strikes the golf ball 2600 eccentric towards the head top portion 1120 or the head sole portion 1130 . It can be increased to limit rotation of the head 1000 , thereby increasing the golf club head 1000 tolerance for such high or low mis-hits. For example, to increase the horizontal MOI 1811 , weight may be added or relocated towards the head front 1110 and/or head rear 2160 . In the same or another example, golf club head 1000 may extend toward head front 1110 and/or head rear 2160 .

However, such adjustments or changes to increase the horizontal MOI 1811 may be made up to a point before they begin to affect other golf club head characteristics. For example, an unconstrained adjustment to increase the horizontal MOI 1811 may lead to an excessive increase in the hosel MOI 1711 if not properly balanced, thereby golfing against rotation about the hosel axis 1710 . Increases the resistance of the club head 1000 and thus allows a person to hold the golf club during the golf swing for proper positioning or “squaring” of the golf club head 1000 upon impact with the golf ball 2600 . It makes it difficult to "turn over". Increasing hosel MOI 1711 may also limit or reduce the effect of gearing between golf ball 2600 and striking surface 1210 that would otherwise impart some corrective spin to golf ball 2600 during eccentric impact. .

To reduce the hosel MOI 1711 , the golf club head 1000 may be designed to limit the distance between the hosel shaft 1710 and any additional or discretionary mass of the golf club head 1000 . If not properly balanced, this approach for reducing the hosel MOI 1711 may be incompatible with some of the approaches described above for increasing the horizontal MOI 1811 . Accordingly, adding or redistributing weight for the golf club head 1000 to increase the horizontal MOI 1811 must be balanced with respect to limiting or maintaining the increase in the hosel MOI 1711 .

In view of the above, the fourth optimization characteristic of the golf club head 1000 controls the relationship between the horizontal MOI 1811 and the hosel MOI 1711 to satisfy the following relation 4:

(Horizontal MOI ₁₈₁₁ )≥ 39% (Hozel MOI ₁₇₁₁ ) [Relation 4]

There may be examples in which golf club head 1000 may be configured such that its fourth optimization characteristic may exceed the requirements of Equation (4). As an example, in some embodiments, the fourth optimization characteristic of the golf club head 1000 is that the horizontal MOI 1811 is at least 40% of the hosel MOI 1711 , at least 45% of the hosel MOI 1711 , or a hosel MOI ( 1711) can be configured to be 50% or more. In this example, the horizontal MOI 1811 is approximately 3740 grams-square centimeters (g·cm 2 ), although examples exist where it can range from approximately 2800 g·cm ² to approximately 4300 g·cm ² . In some embodiments, the horizontal MOI 1811 is greater than about 2800 g-cm ² , greater than about 3000 g-cm ² , greater than about 3200 g-cm ² , greater than about 3400 g-cm ² , greater than about 3600 g-cm ² greater than about 3800 g-cm ² , greater than about 4000 g-cm ² , or greater than about 4200 g-cm ² . The hosel MOI 1711 is approximately 9370 g·cm ² in this example, but may range from approximately 7000 g·cm ² to approximately 11,000 g·cm ² in the same or another example. In many embodiments, hosel MOI 1711 is greater than approximately 7000 g·cm ² , greater than approximately 7500 g·cm ² , greater than approximately 8000 g·cm ² , greater than approximately 8500 g·cm ² , greater than approximately 9000 g·cm ² greater than about 9500 g-cm ² , greater than about 10,000 g-cm ² , greater than about 10,500 g-cm ² , or greater than about 11,000 g-cm ² .

The golf club head 1000 may also include a fifth optimization feature with respect to the balance between the hosel MOI 1711 and the vertical MOI 1611 ( FIG. 1 ). The vertical MOI 1611 extends from the head top portion 1120 to the head sole portion 1130 through the head center of gravity 2500 and is orthogonal to the ground plane 1010 when the golf club head 1000 is in the address position. It is defined with respect to the head vertical axis 1610 . The vertical MOI 1611 is approximately 5300 g·cm ² in this example, but may range from approximately 4700 g·cm ² to approximately 6000 g·cm ² in the same or another example. In some embodiments, the vertical MOI 1611 is greater than approximately 4700 g·cm ² , greater than approximately 4900 g·cm ² , greater than approximately 5100 g·cm ² , greater than approximately 5300 g·cm ² , greater than approximately 5500 g·cm ² greater than, greater than approximately 5700 g·cm ² , or greater than approximately 5900 g·cm ² .

In some examples, the vertical MOI 1611 is relative to the head vertical axis 1610 when the striking surface 1210 is eccentric towards the head heel portion 1140 or toward the head toe portion 1150 to strike the golf ball 2600 . It can be increased to limit rotation of the golf club head 1000, thereby increasing the forgiveness of the golf club head 1000 for such high or low hits. For example, to increase the vertical MOI 1611 , weight may be added or repositioned toward the head heel portion 1140 and/or the head toe portion 1150 . In the same or another example, the golf club head may extend towards the head heel portion 1140 and/or the head toe portion 1150 .

However, such adjustments or changes to increase the vertical MOI 1611 may be made to a point before they begin to affect other golf club head characteristics. For example, an unconstrained adjustment to increase the vertical MOI 1611 may lead to an excessive increase in the hosel MOI 1711 if not properly balanced, thereby causing rotation about the hosel axis 1710 as described above. increase the resistance of the golf club head 1000 to Moreover, if not properly balanced, some approaches for reducing hosel MOI 1711 may be incompatible with some of the approaches described above for increasing vertical MOI 1611 . Accordingly, adding or redistributing weight for the golf club head 1000 to increase the vertical MOI 1611 must be balanced with respect to limiting or maintaining the increase in the hosel MOI 1711 .

In view of the above, the fifth optimization characteristic of the golf club head 1000 controls the relationship between the vertical MOI 1611 and the hosel MOI 1711 to satisfy the following relation (5):

(Vertical MOI ₁₆₁₁ )≥ 59% (Hozel MOI ₁₇₁₁ ) [Relation 5]

There may be examples in which the golf club head 1000 may be configured such that its fifth optimization characteristic may exceed the requirements of Equation (5). As an example, in some embodiments, the fifth optimization characteristic of golf club head 1000 is that the vertical MOI 1611 is at least 60% of the hosel MOI 1711 , at least 65% of the hosel MOI 1711 , or the hosel MOI ( 1711) can be configured to be 70% or more. In some examples, golf club head 1000 may be configured such that its fourth optimized characteristic satisfies Equation 4, and its fourth optimized characteristic also satisfies Equation 5.

weight structure

In some implementations, the golf club head 1000 adjusts the distribution of mass or the relationship between different elements of the golf club head 1000 to thereby adjust the above-described head CG depth, head CG height, first, second, third , fourth, and/or fifth optimization characteristics. For these purposes, golf club head 1000 may include a weight structure 2700 positioned towards a head sole 1130 and a head rear portion 2160, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 . In some configurations, weight structure 2700 may be designed and/or positioned to satisfy the constraints imposed by relation(s) 1, 2, 3, 4, and/or 5, whereby striking surface 1210 ), the head volume 2600 , the location of the center of gravity 2500 , and/or the different moments of inertia of the golf club head 1000 .

As can be seen in FIG. 3 , the weight structure 2700 may be positioned relative to a clock grid 3500 , which may be aligned with respect to the striking surface 1210 . For example, clock grid 3500 includes a 12 o'clock ray 3512 aligned with striking face center point 1211 in this embodiment. 12 o'clock line 3512 is orthogonal to forward intersection line 3271 defined by the intersection of loft plane 2270 ( FIGS. 2 and 3 ) and ground plane 1010 ( FIGS. 1 and 2 ). Clock grid 3500 may be centered along 12 o'clock line 3512 at a midpoint between the front end of front portion 1110 and rear end of rear portion 2160 . In the same or another example, the clock grid center point 3515 may be centered proximate to the geometric center point of the golf club head 1000 . The clock grid 3500 also includes a 3 o'clock line 3503 extending towards the head heel portion 1140 , and a 9 o'clock line 3509 extending towards the head toe portion 1150 .

The weight perimeter 2705 of the weight structure 2700 defines, in this embodiment, a head rear portion 2160 defined at least in part between the 4 o'clock line 3504 and the 8 o'clock line 3508 of the clock grid 3500 . towards, whereas the weight center 2750 is located between the 5 o'clock line 3505 and the 7 o'clock line 3507 . In examples such as this example, the weight circumference 2705 is completely defined between the 4 o'clock line 3504 and the 8 o'clock line 3508 . Although the weight perimeter 2705 is defined on the exterior of the golf club head 1000 in this example, there are other examples where the weight perimeter may extend into or be defined within the inner portion of the golf club head 1000 . In some examples, the position of the weight 2700 may be established with respect to a larger area. For example, in this example, the weight perimeter 2705 of the weight structure 2700 is a head back portion defined at least in part between the 4 o'clock line 3504 and the 9 o'clock line 3509 of the clock grid 3500 . 2160 , while the center of weight 2750 can be located between the 5 o'clock line 3505 and the 8 o'clock line 3508 .

In the same or different embodiments, the weight structure 2700 may extend or shift toward the heel portion 1140 . For example, weight perimeter 2705 and/or weight center 2750 may be shifted towards 4 o'clock line 3504 rather than towards 9 o'clock line 3509 . Deflecting the weight structure 2700 towards the head heel portion 1140 limits the distance between the hosel axis 1710 and the weight structure 2700, thereby allowing a reduction in the hosel MOI 1711 relative to the hosel axis 1710. may, thereby allow for easier rotation of the golf club head 1000 about the hosel axis 1710 during the swing.

In some examples, weight structure 2700 may include a mass of approximately 2 grams to approximately 50 grams, and/or a volume of approximately 1 cc to approximately 30 cc. In this example, the weight structure 2700 protrudes from the outer contour of the head sole portion 1130 , and thus is at least partially outward to allow greater adjustment of the head center of gravity 2500 .

The weight structure 2700 may include a removable weight 2790 in the same or another example, wherein the removable weight 2790 may include a mass from about 0.5 grams to about 30 grams, the relation(s) 1, 2, 3, 4, and/or 5 may be substituted with one or more other similar weights to adjust the position of the head center of gravity 2500 if desired to satisfy 1, 2, 3, 4, and/or 5. In the same or another example, the center of gravity 2750 is the center of gravity of the weight structure 2700 , the center of gravity of the removable weight 2790 , the geometric center of the weight structure 2700 , and/or the center of gravity of the removable weight 2790 . at least one of the geometric centers.

Weight center 2750 can be positioned with respect to ground plane 1010 and weight center elevation axis 2340 , which weight center elevation axis extends between weight center 2750 and ground plane 1010 . The weight center elevation axis 2340 is orthogonal to the ground plane 1010 when the golf club head 1000 is in the address position. The weight center elevation 2730 for the weight center 2750 may thus be measured along the weight center elevation axis 2340 between the weight center 2750 and the ground plane 1010 . In addition, the weight center depth 2710 for the weight center 2750 may be measured parallel to the ground plane 1010 , between the intersection points 2802 and 2804 . In this example, intersection 2804 is defined by the intersection between ground plane 1010 and weight center elevation axis 2340 when golf club head 1000 is in the address position. The weight center 2750 may be positioned in the same or other embodiments such that the weight distance 2751 (FIG. 2) separating the head center of gravity 2500 from the weight center 2750 is between approximately 25 mm and approximately 102 mm. have.

Embodiments may also exist in which face portion 1200 may include a reduced thickness portion, which may include a reduced thickness portion on the back side of striking face 1210 and/or between face portion 1200 and head front portion 1110 . It may be reinforced as needed with one or more reinforcing structures at the junction of the . Other mass redistribution mechanisms may likewise be employed if required to satisfy relation(s) 1, 2, 3, 4, and/or 5.

In some implementations, the relationship or ratio between the head center of gravity 2500 and the weight center 2750 may be configured to allow one or more of relation(s) 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 to be satisfied. . For example, an elevation ratio defined by the ratio of the weight center elevation 2730 to the head CG elevation 2530 is 0.44 to help keep the head center of gravity 2500 closer to the head sole 1130 . may be in excess. As another example, the depth ratio defined by the ratio of the weight center depth 2710 to the head CG depth 2510 is 2.54 to prevent the CG depth 2510 from excessively decreasing toward the head front 1110 . may be less than There are some implementations in which the head CG elevation 2530 may be less than approximately 28.5 mm, the weight center elevation 2730 may be less than approximately 12.5 mm, and/or the weight center depth 2710 may be greater than approximately 99.7 mm. can

In the same or other embodiments, the distribution of mass within the golf club head 1000 is such that the golf club head 1000 exhibits the first, second, third, fourth, and/or fifth optimization characteristics described above. It can also be adjusted as possible. For these purposes, golf club head 1000 may include one or more weight members comprised of adhesive material dispensed toward head sole 1130 . One or more weight members may be disposed on the inner surface of the head sole 1130 . In some configurations, one or more weight members may be designed and/or positioned to satisfy the constraints imposed by relation(s) 1, 2, 3, 4, and/or 5, whereby striking face 1210 may be positioned. balances the face height or size of , the head volume 2600 , the location of the center of gravity 2500 , and/or the different moments of inertia of the golf club head 1000 .

In some examples, each of the one or more weight members may comprise a mass of about 2 grams to about 50 grams, and/or a volume of about 1 cc to about 30 cc. In some configurations, one or more weight members may include a pressure-sensitive adhesive such as an acrylic or epoxy-based resin adhesive. The one or more weight members may optionally be comprised of a mixture of adhesive and metal powder. Alternatively, the one or more weight members may include a combination of an adhesive and one or more mass elements. Each of the one or more mass elements may weigh from about 0.5 grams to about 30 grams. In some examples, each of the one or more mass elements may include a uniform material such as a metal, a metal alloy, or some other material having a high density.

In addition to adjusting the distribution of mass within golf club head 1000 such that golf club head 1000 exhibits the first, second, third, fourth, and/or fifth optimization characteristics described above, one or more The weight member may impart additional performance benefits to the golf club head 1000 . In some examples, the adhesive material comprising one or more weight members will retain its tack or adhesive properties such that scattered debris within the club head 1000 will adhere to the one or more weight members during use of the golf club head 1000 . can In the same or another example, one or more weight members disposed on the inner surface of the head sole 1130 may provide vibration damping and/or sound attenuation during impact of the golf ball 2900 and the golf club head 1000 . can provide In the same or other examples, one or more weight members may be positioned on the interior surface of the head sole portion 1130 at specific locations and in specific amounts so that the desired acoustic properties of the golf club 1000 are comparable to those of the golf ball 2900 . It can also be achieved during the impact of

thin area

In some embodiments, the golf club head 1000 adjusts the distribution of mass or relationship between different elements of the golf club head 1000, thereby adjusting the above-described head CG depth, head CG height, first, second, third , fourth, and/or fifth optimization characteristics. For these purposes, golf club head 1000 may include one or more thin regions located in various regions of club head 1000 . Club head 1000 may include a thin area in place of or in addition to weight structure 2700 . The thin area increases the discretionary weight of the golf club head 1000 so that the added discretionary weight is applied within the weight structure, on the inner or outer surface of the club head 1000 , and/or of the club head 1000 . may be located in different regions to achieve the first, second, third, fourth, and/or fifth performance characteristics.

The thin region may be located on any region of the club head 1000 . For example, the thin region may be formed on one or more of the head top portion 1120 , the head sole portion 1130 , the head heel portion 1140 , the head toe portion 1150 , the head rear portion 2160 , or the face portion 1200 . can be located.

In some embodiments, the thin region comprises a thickness of less than approximately 0.020 inches. In other embodiments, the thin region comprises a thickness of less than 0.025 inches, less than 0.020 inches, less than 0.015 inches, or less than 0.010 inches. For example, the thin region may comprise a thickness of about 0.010 to 0.025 inches, about 0.015 to 0.020 inches, about 0.016 to 0.020 inches, about 0.017 to 0.020 inches, or about 0.018 to 0.020 inches.

In the illustrated embodiment, the thin regions vary in shape and location and cover approximately 25% of the surface area of the club head 1000 . In other embodiments, the thin region is between about 20-30%, about 15-35%, about 15-25%, about 10-25%, about 15-30%, or about 20-30% of the surface area of club head 1000 . 50% can be covered. Further, in other embodiments, the thin area comprises at most 5%, at most 10%, at most 15%, at most 20%, at most 25%, at most 30%, at most 35%, at most 40%, of the surface area of club head 1000 , It can cover up to 45%, or up to 50%.

In some embodiments, a portion of the thin region is positioned on the head top portion 1120 such that approximately 51% of the surface area of the head top portion 1120 comprises the thin region. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the thin region comprises at most 20%, at most 25%, at most 30%, at most 35%, at most 40%, at most 45%, at most 50%, at most 55% of the head top portion 1120 . , up to 60%, up to 65%, up to 70%, or up to 75% may be positioned on the head top 1120 to include the thin area. For example, in some embodiments, approximately 40-60% of the head top portion 1120 may include a thin area. As another example, in other embodiments, approximately 35 to 65%, approximately 30 to 70%, or approximately 25 to 75% of the head top portion 1120 may include a thin area.

In some embodiments, a portion of the thin region is located on the head sole 1130 such that approximately 64% of the surface area of the head sole 1130 comprises the thin region. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the thin region may be at most 20%, at most 25%, at most 30%, at most 35%, at most 40%, at most 45%, at most 50%, at most 55% of the head sole portion 1130 . , at most 60%, at most 65%, at most 70%, or at most 75% may be positioned on the head sole unit 1130 to include the thin area. For example, in some embodiments, approximately 40 to 60% of the head sole 1130 may include a thin area. As another example, in another embodiment, about 35 to 65%, about 30 to 70%, or about 25 to 75% of the head sole 1130 may include a thin area.

In many embodiments, a club head 1000 having a thin area may be manufactured using centrifugal casting. In other embodiments, portions of club head 1000 having thin areas may be manufactured using other suitable methods, such as stamping, forging, or machining. In embodiments where portions of club head 1000 having thin areas are manufactured using stamping, forging, or machining, portions of club head 1000 may be formed using epoxy, tape, welding, mechanical fasteners, or other suitable method. can be combined using

fixed weight

In some embodiments, the golf club head 1000 adjusts the distribution of mass or relationship between different elements of the golf club head 1000, thereby adjusting the above-described head CG depth, head CG height, first, second, third , fourth, and/or fifth optimization characteristics. For these purposes, golf club head 1000 may include one or more fixed weights 3100 having a specific gravity greater than that of the body, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 . Club head 1000 may include one or more fixed weights 3100 in place of or in addition to weight structure 2700 . Further, the club head 1000 may include one or more fixed weights 3100 in place of or in addition to the thin area. Also, in embodiments where the club head includes one or more fixed weights 3100 in addition to weight structure 2700 , one or more fixed weights 3100 may be located within weight structure 2700 , or one The above fixed weight 3100 may be located outside or separately from the weight structure 2700 .

In these or other embodiments, referring to FIGS. 8 and 9 , one or more fixed weights 3100 are placed on the sole of the club head near a perimeter 2162 of the head rear portion 2160 of the club head 1000 . is located For example, in many embodiments, the one or more fixed weights 3100 are positioned within 1.0 inch of the perimeter 2162 of the back of the head 2160 . In other embodiments, the one or more fixed weights 3100 may be positioned within 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75, or 2.0 inches of the perimeter 2162 of the back of the head 2160 .

Further, in these or other embodiments, the one or more fixed weights 3100 may be greater than 3.75 inches, greater than 4.0 inches, greater than 4.25 inches, greater than 4.50 inches, or greater than 4.75 inches in the front plane 2280 of the club head 1000 . It can be located at a distance from Also, in these or other embodiments, the one or more fixed weights 3100 may be greater than 1.5 inches, greater than 1.75 inches, greater than 2.0 inches, greater than 2.25 inches, or greater than 2.5 inches. can be located at a distance from

The body 1100 of the club head 1000 includes a first material. The one or more fixed weights 3100 may be combined with tungsten, gold, hafnium, iridium, mercury, neptunium, osmium, palladium, platinum, plutonium, protactinium, rhenium, rhodium, ruthenium, tantalum, uranium, or any other high-density material. and the same second high-density material. In some embodiments, the second material has a specific gravity greater than 12.0. In other embodiments, the second material can have a specific gravity greater than 10.0, greater than 11.0, greater than 12.0, greater than 13.0, greater than 14.0, greater than 15.0, greater than 16.0, greater than 17.0, or greater than 18.0. For example, in some embodiments, the second material may have a specific gravity of 10.0 to 18.0, 12.0 to 18.0, or 14.0 to 18.0.

In some embodiments, one or more of the fixed weights 3100 may include a mass greater than 12 grams. In other embodiments, one or more of the fixed weights 3100 may include a mass greater than 8 grams, greater than 9 grams, greater than 10 grams, greater than 11 grams, or greater than 12 grams.

In some embodiments, the fixed weight 3100 may be integrally formed with the body of the club head by casting, molding, or any other suitable method. In another embodiment, the fixed weight 3100 is formed separately from the body of the club head and is welded (eg, with the fixed weight sintered to a less dense weldable material), brazing, adhesive ( such as epoxy), rivets, screws, or any other suitable method. In many embodiments, one or more fixed weights are permanently coupled to the club head. In other embodiments, one or more fixed weights may be removably coupled to the club head.

Relative Mass Characteristics

Various embodiments of the mass properties of the golf club head 1000 may be used to achieve the exemplary head CG depth, head CG height, first, second, third, fourth, and/or fifth optimization properties described above. Drivers, fairway woods, and hybrid golf club heads are described below.

In many embodiments, the golf club head 1000 includes a first rear region comprising a portion of the rear end of the club head 1000 located within the last or rearmost 20% of the length 2910 of the club head 1000 . may include The golf club head 1000 may also include a second rear region comprising a portion of the rear end of the club head 1000 located within the last or rearmost 10% of the length 2910 of the club head 1000 . have. In these or other embodiments, the length 2910 of the club head 1000 is the leading edge ( 2912) to the rear end.

An exemplary driver-type club head 1000 may have a volume greater than approximately 400 cc, and a golf club length greater than 44 inches. In other embodiments, the exemplary driver-type club head may comprise a volume greater than 400 cc, greater than 410 cc, greater than 420 cc, greater than 430 cc, greater than 440 cc, or greater than 450 cc. Also, in other embodiments, exemplary driver-type club heads may include a golf club length greater than 44 inches, greater than 45 inches, greater than 46 inches, or greater than 47 inches. Also, in other embodiments, exemplary driver-type club heads may include a golf club length of 44 to 48 inches, 45 to 48 inches, or 46 to 48 inches.

In many embodiments of the exemplary driver-type club head, the first material of the body 1100 includes a titanium alloy such as Ti-6-4 or Ti-9s. In other embodiments, the first material of body 1100 may include any suitable material having a specific gravity less than 5.0. For example, the first material of the body 1100 may include titanium, aluminum, barium, beryllium, scandium, strontium, or yttrium. In many embodiments of the exemplary driver-type club head, the ratio of the specific gravity of the first material of the body to the specific gravity of the second material of the weight is less than approximately 0.4. In other embodiments of an exemplary driver-type club head, a ratio of the specific gravity of the first material of the body to the specific gravity of the second material of the weight is less than about 0.6, less than about 0.5, less than about 0.4, less than about 0.3, or about 0.2 may be less than Also, in another embodiment of the exemplary driver-type club head, a ratio of the specific gravity of the first material of the body to the specific gravity of the second material of the weight ranges from about 0.35 to 0.45, from about 0.3 to 0.5, or from about 0.2 to 0.6. can be

In the illustrated embodiment of the exemplary driver-type club head, the first rear region comprises approximately 20.6% of the total mass of the club head 1000 . In other embodiments, the first rear region of the driven club head 1000 is greater than 15%, greater than about 16%, greater than about 17%, greater than about 18%, greater than about 19% of the total mass of the club head 1000 . , greater than about 20%, greater than about 22.5%, or greater than about 25%. Also, in other embodiments, the first rear region of the driver-type club head may comprise 15 to 20%, 17.5 to 25%, or 20 to 30% of the total mass of the club head 1000 .

In the illustrated embodiment of the exemplary driver-type club head, the second rear region comprises approximately 10.0% of the total mass of the club head 1000 . In other embodiments, the second rear region of the driven club head 1000 is greater than approximately 5%, greater than approximately 6%, greater than approximately 7%, greater than approximately 8%, or greater than approximately 9% of the total mass of the club head 1000 . greater than about 10%, greater than about 12.5%, or greater than about 15%. Also, in other embodiments, the second rear region of the driver-type club head may comprise 5 to 10%, 7.5 to 15%, or 10 to 20% of the total mass of the club head 1000 .

An exemplary fairway wood or hybrid club head may have a volume of less than approximately 400 cc, and a golf club length of less than 44 inches. In other embodiments, an exemplary fairway wood or hybrid club head may comprise a volume of less than 420 cc, less than 410 cc, less than 400 cc, less than 390 cc, less than 380 cc, or less than 370 cc. In some embodiments of the exemplary fairway wood-type club head, the volume of the club head is between approximately 300 cc and 400 cc, between approximately 325 cc and 400 cc, between approximately 350 cc and 400 cc, between approximately 250 cc and 400 cc, between approximately 250 and 350 cc. cc, or approximately 275 to 375 cc. In some embodiments of the exemplary hybrid club head, the volume of the club head may be between approximately 100 cc and 150 cc, between approximately 75 cc and 150 cc, between approximately 100 cc and 125 cc, or between approximately 75 and 125 cc. Also, in other embodiments, exemplary fairway woods or hybrid club heads may include a golf club length of less than 45 inches, less than 44 inches, less than 43 inches, or less than 42 inches. Also, in other embodiments, exemplary fairway woods or hybrid club heads may include a golf club length of 40 to 44 inches, 37 to 40 inches, or 35 to 40 inches.

In many embodiments of the exemplary fairway wood or hybrid club head, the first material of the body 1100 includes a steel alloy. In other embodiments, the first material of body 1100 may include any suitable material having a specific gravity less than 10.0. For example, the first material of the body 1100 is titanium, aluminum, barium, bismuth, cadmium, cerium, chromium, cobalt, copper, dysprosium, europium, gadolinium, gallium, holmium, indium, iron, steel, a steel alloy, lanthanum, lutetium, neodymium, nickel, niobium, polonium, praseodymium, promethium, terbium, thulium, tin, vanadium, zinc, zirconium, beryllium, scandium, strontium, or yttrium. In many embodiments of the exemplary fairway wood or hybrid club head, the ratio of the specific gravity of the first material of the body to the specific gravity of the second material of the weight is less than approximately 0.8. In other embodiments of the exemplary fairway wood or hybrid club head, the ratio of the specific gravity of the first material of the body to the specific gravity of the second material of the weight is less than about 0.9, less than about 0.8, less than about 0.7, less than about 0.6; or less than about 0.5. Also, in other embodiments of the exemplary fairway wood or hybrid club head, the ratio of the specific gravity of the first material of the body to the specific gravity of the second material of the weight is between about 0.75 and 0.85, between about 0.7 and 0.9, or between about 0.3 and 0.3. It may be in the range of 0.9.

In an embodiment of a club head 1000 comprising a fairway wood-shaped club head, the first rear region comprises greater than approximately 13%, greater than approximately 14%, greater than approximately 15%, and approximately 16% of the total mass of the club head 1000 . greater than about 17%, greater than about 18%, greater than about 19%, greater than about 20%, greater than about 22.5%, greater than about 25%. Also, in other embodiments, the first area of the fairway wood-shaped club head may comprise 13 to 20%, 17.5 to 25%, or 20 to 30% of the total mass of the club head 1000 . For example, in one embodiment of a fairway wooded club head, the first rear region comprises approximately 20.0% of the total mass of the club head 1000 .

In the same or another embodiment of a club head 1000 comprising a fairway wood-shaped club head, the second rear region comprises greater than approximately 5%, greater than approximately 6%, greater than approximately 7%, and greater than approximately 7% of the total mass of the club head 1000; greater than about 8%, greater than about 9%, greater than about 10%, greater than about 11%, greater than about 12%, greater than about 15%, greater than about 18%, greater than about 21%. Further, in other embodiments, the second rear region of the fairway wooded club head may comprise 5 to 10%, 7.5 to 15%, 12.5 to 20%, or 17.5 to 25% of the total mass of the club head 1000 . can For example, in one embodiment of a fairway wooded club head, the second rear region comprises approximately 8% of the total mass of the club head 1000 .

In an embodiment of a club head 1000 including a hybrid club head, the first rear region is greater than approximately 12.5%, greater than approximately 15%, greater than approximately 16%, greater than approximately 17% of the total mass of the club head 1000 . , greater than about 18%, greater than about 19%, greater than about 20%, greater than about 22.5%, greater than about 25%. Also in other embodiments, the first rear region of the hybrid club head may comprise 12.5 to 20%, 15 to 20%, 17.5 to 25%, or 20 to 30% of the total mass of the club head 1000 . have. For example, in one embodiment of a hybrid club head, the first rear region comprises approximately 17.5% of the total mass of the club head 1000 .

In the same or another embodiment of a club head 1000 including a hybrid club head, the second rear region is greater than approximately 3%, greater than approximately 4%, greater than approximately 5%, or greater than approximately 3% of the total mass of the club head 1000 . greater than about 6%, greater than about 7%, greater than about 8%, greater than about 9%, greater than about 12%, greater than about 15%. Also in other embodiments, the second rear region of the hybrid club head may comprise 3 to 7.5%, 5 to 10%, 7.5 to 15%, or 12 to 20% of the total mass of the club head 1000 . have. For example, in one embodiment of a hybrid club head, the second rear region comprises approximately 6% of the total mass of the club head 1000 .

Crown angle

In some embodiments, the golf club head 1000 adjusts the distribution of mass or relationship between different elements of the golf club head 1000, thereby adjusting the above-described head CG depth, head CG height, first, second, third , fourth, and/or fifth optimization characteristics. For these purposes, golf club head 1000 may include a steep crown angle 1660 near a central region of club head 1000 , heel portion 1140 and/or toe portion 1150 . In some embodiments, a steep crown angle 1660 may assist in lowering the position of the head CG height 2510 and/or increasing the head CG depth 2520 .

Club head 1000 may include a steep crown angle 1660 in place of or in addition to weight structure 2700 . Additionally, club head 1000 may include a steep crown angle 1660 instead of or in addition to a thin area. Additionally, the club head 1000 may include a steep crown angle 1660 in place of or in addition to one or more fixed weights 3100 .

Steep crown angle 1660 is defined for various points and axes on the upper and rear transition boundaries of the club head, as described below. Referring to FIG. 5 , the upper transition boundary extends from the vicinity of the head heel portion 1140 to the vicinity of the head toe portion 1150 , between the perimeter 1212 of the striking surface of the golf club head 1000 and the head top portion 1120 . The striking surface perimeter 1212 may be defined along a transition boundary where the contour of the face portion 1200 deviates from the longitudinal and/or transverse radius of curvature of the striking surface 1210 . The upper transition boundary includes an upper transition boundary profile 1500 when viewed from a side cross-sectional view. In these embodiments, a cross-sectional side view of the upper transition boundary profile 1500 may be taken along any point of the club head 1000 from near the head heel portion 1140 to the vicinity of the head toe portion 1150 .

The upper transition boundary profile 1500 includes a top radius of curvature 1515 . The top radius of curvature 1515 is defined by a first upper transition point 1510 and a second upper transition point 1520 . The first upper transition point 1510 is on an upper transition boundary where the contour of the club head 1000 deviates from the longitudinal and/or transverse radius of curvature of the striking surface 1210 (ie, on the striking surface perimeter 1212 ). ] is located. The second upper transition point 1520 is located along the upper transition boundary where the profile deviates from the top radius of curvature 1515 . A first top radius of curvature 1515 extends from a first upper transition point 1510 to a second upper transition point 1520 .

5 , in the illustrated embodiment, the top radius of curvature 1515 is substantially constant from the head heel portion 1140 to the head toe portion 1150 of the club head 1000 . In another embodiment, the top radius of curvature 1515 may vary from the heel portion 1140 to the toe portion 1150 of the club head 1000 . For example, the top radius of curvature 1515 may be toward the head heel portion 1140 of the club head 1000 , towards the head toe portion 1150 of the club head 1000 , at the center of the club head 1000 , or It may be greater in any combination of the aforementioned locations. Top radius of curvature 1515 may vary from head heel portion 1140 to head toe portion 1150 according to any profile, such as, for example, linear, parabolic, quadratic, exponential, or any other profile. may be

In the illustrated embodiment, the upper transition boundary profile 1500 has two transition points and one radius of curvature. In other embodiments, upper boundary transition profile 1500 may include any number of transition points and any number of radii of curvature. For example, the upper transition boundary profile 1500 may have 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or any number of transition points. may include As another example, the upper transition boundary profile 1500 includes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or any number of radii of curvature. You may.

Referring to FIG. 6 , the rear transition boundary extends from the vicinity of the head heel portion 1140 to the vicinity of the head toe portion 1150 , between the head rear portion 2160 and the head top portion 1120 of the golf club head 1000 . The posterior transition boundary includes a posterior transition boundary profile 1600 when viewed from a side cross-sectional view. In these embodiments, a cross-sectional side view of the rear transition boundary profile 1600 may be taken along any point of the club head 1000 from near the head heel portion 1140 to near the head toe portion 1150 .

The posterior transition profile 1600 further includes a posterior radius of curvature 1615 located between the first posterior transition point 1610 and the second posterior transition point 1620 . In the illustrated embodiment, the first rear transition point 1610 is located at the edge of the head top portion 1120 near the head rear portion 2160 where the curvature of the head top portion 1120 deviates from the cross-sectional view. In the same or other embodiments, the first rear transition point 1610 may be located on the rear transition profile of the club head 1000 in a cross-sectional view where the rear radius of curvature 1615 begins. The second rear transition point 1620 is located on the head rear portion 2160 of the club head 1000 in cross-sectional view where the rear radius of curvature 1615 terminates.

In the illustrated embodiment, the rear radius of curvature 1615 is substantially constant from the head heel portion 1140 to the head toe portion 1150 along the head rear portion 2160 of the golf club head 1000 . In another embodiment, the rear radius of curvature 1615 may vary from the head heel portion 1140 to the head toe portion 1150 along the head rear portion 2160 of the golf club head 1000 . The rear radius of curvature may be greater near the head heel portion 1140 , near the head toe portion 1150 , near the center of the golf club head 1000 , or any combination of the foregoing locations. For example, the rear radius of curvature 1615 may be greater near the head heel portion 1140 and the head toe portion 1150 than at the center of the head rear portion 2160 of the golf club head 1000 . The back radius of curvature 1615 may vary from the head heel portion 1140 to the head toe portion 1150 according to any profile, such as, for example, linear, parabolic, quadratic, exponential, or any other profile. may be

In the illustrated embodiment, the posterior transition profile 1600 has two posterior transition points and one radius of curvature. In other embodiments, the posterior transition profile may include any number of posterior transition points and any number of radii of curvature. For example, the posterior metastasis profile 1600 may have 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or any number of posterior metastasis points. may include As another example, the posterior transition profile 1600 may include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or any number of radii of curvature. may be

Referring to FIG. 7 , the head top portion 1120 of the golf club head 1000 further includes a crown shaft 1650 when viewed from a side cross-sectional view. In these embodiments, a cross-sectional side view may be taken along any point of the club head 1000 from near the head heel portion 1140 to the vicinity of the head toe portion 1150 . Crown axis 1650 extends through second upper transition point 1520 and second rear transition point 1610 .

Crown axis 1650 intersects front plane 2280 at a point in front of golf club head 1000 . Crown axis 1660 is defined as the acute angle between crown axis 1650 and anterior plane 2280 . Crown axis 1660 may vary when side cross-sectional views are taken at different positions relative to head heel portion 1140 and/or head toe portion 1150 .

In the illustrated embodiment, the crown angle 1660 near the head toe portion 1150 is approximately 72.25 degrees, the crown angle 1660 near the head heel portion 1140 is approximately 64.5 degrees, and the Crown angle 1660 near center is approximately 64.2 degrees. In other embodiments, the crown angle 1660 near the head toe portion 1150 of the club head 1000 is less than about 79 degrees, less than about 78 degrees, less than about 77 degrees, less than about 76 degrees, less than about 75 degrees, less than about 74 degrees, less than about 73 degrees, less than about 72 degrees, less than about 71 degrees, less than about 70 degrees, less than about 69 degrees, or less than about 68 degrees. For example, the crown angle 1660, measured in a cross-sectional side view of the club head taken through a point located approximately 1.0 inches toward the head toe portion 1150 from the geometric center point of the striking face, is less than 79 degrees, less than 78 degrees; less than 77 degrees, less than 76 degrees, less than 75 degrees, less than 74 degrees, less than 73 degrees, less than 72 degrees, less than 71 degrees, less than 70 degrees, less than 69 degrees, or less than 68 degrees.

In some embodiments, the crown angle 1660 near the head heel portion 1140 is less than about 70 degrees, less than about 69 degrees, less than about 68 degrees, less than about 67 degrees, less than about 66 degrees, less than about 65 degrees, about 64 degrees. less than about 63 degrees, less than about 62 degrees, less than about 61 degrees, less than about 60 degrees, or less than about 59 degrees. For example, the crown angle 1660 measured in a side cross-sectional view of the club head taken through a point located approximately 1.0 inches toward the head heel portion 1140 from the geometric center point of the striking face is less than approximately 70 degrees, and less than approximately 69 degrees. , less than about 68 degrees, less than about 67 degrees, less than about 66 degrees, less than about 65 degrees, less than about 64 degrees, less than about 63 degrees, less than about 62 degrees, less than about 61 degrees, less than about 60 degrees, less than about 59 degrees. can

In some embodiments, the crown angle 1660 near the center of the club head 1000 is less than about 70 degrees, less than about 69 degrees, less than about 68 degrees, less than about 67 degrees, less than about 66 degrees, less than about 65 degrees, less than about 64 degrees, less than about 63 degrees, less than about 62 degrees, less than about 61 degrees, less than about 60 degrees, or less than about 59 degrees. For example, the crown angle 1660 measured in a side cross-sectional view of the club head taken through the geometric center point of the striking face may be less than about 70 degrees, less than about 69 degrees, less than about 68 degrees, less than about 67 degrees, less than about 66 degrees. , less than about 65 degrees, less than about 64 degrees, less than about 63 degrees, less than about 62 degrees, less than about 61 degrees, less than about 60 degrees, less than about 59 degrees.

In many embodiments, reducing the crown angle 1660 compared to the current club head results in a steeper head top 1120 or a head top 1120 positioned closer to the ground. Accordingly, the reduced crown angle 1660 may result in a lower head CG position.

In some embodiments, decreasing the crown angle 1660 to form a steeper head top 1120 and lower head CG position may result in an undesirable increase in aerodynamic drag. To avoid the increased drag associated with a steeper head top 1120 , the maximum head top height 1670 may be increased. Referring again to FIG. 7 , the maximum head top height 1670 , defined as the maximum distance between the head top 1120 and the crown axis 1650 , is taken in any side cross-sectional view. In many embodiments, a larger head top height 1670 creates a head top 1120 with a greater curvature. The greater curvature in the head top 1120 further shifts the location of the airflow separation on the club head 1000 again during the swing. In other words, the greater curvature allows the airflow to remain coupled to the club head 1000 for a longer distance across the head top 1120 as the club swings. Redirecting the airflow to the split point on the golf club head 1000 may result in less drag and higher club head velocity.

In some embodiments, the maximum head top height 1670 may be approximately 16.5 mm (or approximately 0.65 inches). In other embodiments, the maximum head top height 1670 is greater than approximately 5 mm, greater than approximately 7.5 mm, greater than approximately 10 mm, greater than approximately 12.5 mm, greater than approximately 15 mm, greater than approximately 17.5 mm, greater than approximately 20 mm, greater than approximately 22.5 greater than mm, or greater than approximately 25 mm. Also, in other embodiments, the maximum head top height 1670 may be within the range of 5 mm to 15 mm, or 10 mm to 20 mm, or 15 mm to 25 mm.

Method for manufacturing a club head

4 depicts a flow diagram for a method 4000 that may be used to provide, form, and/or manufacture a golf club head in accordance with the present disclosure. In some examples, the golf club head may be similar to the golf club head 1000 ( FIGS. 1-3 ) presented above.

Method 4000 includes a block 4100 for providing a head body of a golf club head comprising a head front. In some examples, the head body can be similar to the head body 1100 ( FIGS. 1-3 ), and the head front can be similar to the head front 1110 ( FIGS. 1-3 ).

Block 4200 of method 4000 includes coupling a face portion to a head front portion, wherein the head front portion includes a striking surface having an increased face size. In some examples, the face portion may be similar to the face portion 1200 ( FIGS. 1 and 2 ) and has a striking surface 1210 having the increased face size described above with respect thereto. For example, the increased face size of the striking face may allow its face height to be up to approximately 71 mm in some instances.

Method 4000 may include block 4300 for configuring a golf club head to include a first optimization characteristic, wherein the CG height between the center of gravity of the golf club head and the head depth plane of the golf club head is between approximately 0 mm and It may be approximately 5.08 mm or 0.200 inches. In some examples, the first optimization characteristic may be similar to that described above with respect to relation 1 to balance the golf club head face height or size with respect to the center of gravity height. In some examples, the CG height may be similar to the CG height 2520 ( FIG. 2 ); The center of gravity may be similar to the head center of gravity 2500 ( FIG. 2 ); The head depth plane may be similar to the head depth plane 2310 ( FIG. 2 ).

There may be embodiments where the method 4000 may include a block 4400 for configuring a golf club head to include a second optimization characteristic, wherein (a) a face height at 76.2 mm (or approximately 3.0 inches) may exist. The ratio between the subtracted value and (b) the CG depth between the striking face center point and the center of gravity is less than 0.56. In some examples, the second optimization characteristic may be similar to that described above with respect to relation 2 to balance the golf club head face height or size with respect to center of gravity depth. For example, face height may be similar to face height 1213 , and CG depth may be similar to CG depth 2510 .

In some examples, the method 4000 may include a block 4500 for configuring the golf club head to include a third optimization characteristic in which the head volume size plus the ratio between the CG depth and the CG height is 425 or greater. In some implementations, the third optimization characteristic can be similar to that described above with respect to Equation 3 for balancing the head volume with respect to the center of gravity position. For example, the head volume size may be similar to the size of the head volume 2600 ( FIG. 2 ), the CG depth may be similar to the CG depth 2510 , and the CG height may be similar to the CG height 2520 . have.

Method 4000 may, in some embodiments, include block 4600 for configuring a golf club head to include a fourth optimization characteristic, wherein the horizontal moment of inertia of the golf club head is at least 39% of its hosel moment of inertia. . In some implementations, the fourth optimization characteristic may be similar to that described above with respect to Relation 4 to balance the horizontal MOI 1811 with respect to the hosel MOI 1711 ( FIG. 1 ). In the same or other examples, the magnitude of the horizontal moment of inertia may be similar to that described above with respect to the horizontal MOI 1811 . In addition, the magnitude of the hosel moment of inertia may be similar to that described above with respect to the hosel MOI 1711 . There may also be instances where the horizontal moment of inertia and/or the hosel moment of inertia may be balanced with respect to other characteristics, for example with respect to the vertical moment of inertia of the golf club head.

Block 4700 of method 4000 may, in some implementations, be performed to configure the golf club head to include a fifth optimization characteristic, wherein the golf club head's vertical moment of inertia is at least 59% of its hosel moment of inertia. . In some implementations, the fifth optimization characteristic may be similar to that described above with respect to relation 5 to balance the vertical MOI 1611 with respect to the hosel MOI 1711 ( FIG. 1 ). In the same or other examples, the magnitude of the vertical moment of inertia may be similar to that described above with respect to the vertical MOI 1611 . In addition, the magnitude of the hosel moment of inertia may be similar to that described above with respect to the hosel MOI 1711 . There may also be instances where the vertical moment of inertia and/or the hosel moment of inertia may be balanced with respect to other characteristics, for example with respect to the horizontal moment of inertia of block 4500 .

In this example, the method 4000 also includes a block 4800 for providing a mass redistribution mechanism to adjust the center of gravity of the golf club head. In some examples, the mass redistribution mechanism may be configured to allow the golf club head to fulfill the needs of block 4300 , block 4400 , block 4500 , block 4600 , and/or block 4700 of method 4000 . The mass redistribution mechanism may include a weight structure, such as weight structure 2700 ( FIGS. 2 and 3 ) that can adjust the position of the center of gravity toward the sole and/or rear portion of the golf club head, if desired. In the same or other embodiments, the mass redistribution mechanism may be reinforced with one or more reinforcing structures, if desired, for a golf club, such as at the back side of the striking face and/or at the junction between the head body and face portion of the golf club head. It may include a thickness reduction portion of the face portion of the head.

In some examples, one or more of the different blocks of method 4000 may be combined into a single block or performed concurrently, and/or the sequence of such blocks may change. For example, blocks 4100 and 4200 may be combined in some embodiments, such that at least one portion of the face portion and head body comprises a single piece of material. Block 4800 may be combined with one or more of blocks 4100, 4300, 4400, 4500, 4600, and/or 4700 in the same or another example, eg via the mass redistribution mechanism of block 4800, the center of gravity of the golf club head; This may be accomplished simultaneously by adjusting the face height, face size, head volume, and/or one or more moments of inertia. In the same or other examples, some of the blocks of method 4000 may be subdivided into multiple sub-blocks. For example, block 4100 may be subdivided into multiple sub-blocks to provide different portions of the head body of a golf club head. Examples may also exist where method 4000 may include other or different blocks. By way of example, method 4000 may include another block for providing or coupling a golf club shaft to the head body of block 4100 . Moreover, there may be examples in which method 4100 may include only some of the blocks described above. For example, one or more of blocks 4300, 4400, 4500, 4600, and/or 4700 may be optional in some implementations, and/or block 4800 is block 4300, block 4400, block 4500, block 4600, and/or block 4800. Alternatively, it may be skipped if not required to fulfill the requirements of block 4700. Various modifications may be implemented for method 4000 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Although the golf club head and related methods having optimized characteristics herein have been described with reference to specific embodiments, various changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. For example, while the above examples may be described in the context of a driver-type golf club, the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may include fairway wood-type golf clubs, hybrid-type golf clubs, iron-type golf clubs, wedge-type golf clubs, It may be applicable to golf clubs, or other types of golf clubs, such as putter type golf clubs. Alternatively, the apparatus, methods, and articles described herein may be applicable to other types of sports equipment, such as hockey sticks, tennis racquets, fishing rods, ski poles, and the like.

Additional examples of these and others are provided in the description above. Other permutations of different embodiments having one or more of the features of the various figures are likewise contemplated. Accordingly, the description, claims, and drawings herein are intended to be illustrative of the scope of the present disclosure and not limiting. It is intended that the scope of the present application be limited only to the extent required by the appended claims.

The golf club head having optimized characteristics and related methods described herein may be implemented in various embodiments, and the above description of any of these embodiments does not necessarily represent a complete description of all possible embodiments. Rather, the detailed description of the drawings, and the drawings themselves, disclose at least one preferred embodiment and may disclose alternative embodiments.

Replacement of one or more of the claimed elements constitutes a reconstruction rather than a repair. Additionally, benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described with respect to specific embodiments. However, benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element or elements that may cause or enhance any benefit, advantage, or solution are not intended to be implied in such claim. It should not be construed as an essential, required, or essential feature or element of any or all claims unless explicitly stated.

Because the rules of golf may change from time to time (eg, United States Golf Association (USGA), Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews: R&A), etc. New regulations may be adopted or old rules may be removed or amended by the same golf standards body and/or governing body], golf equipment related to the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be used in any particular It may or may not conform to the rules of golf at times. Accordingly, golf equipment related to the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be advertised, offered for sale, and/or marketed as suitable or unsuitable golf equipment. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard.

Moreover, the embodiments and limitations disclosed herein are limited unless the examples and/or limitations are (1) expressly claimed in the claims; and (2) equivalents or potential equivalents of the specified elements and/or limitations of the claims under the doctrine of equivalents, not contributed to the public under the doctor of dedication.

Claims (20)

As a golf club head,
a head body including a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head top portion, and a head inner portion defined by a head sole portion;
striking face with a geometric center point; and
Head Center of Gravity with Head CG Depth and Head CG Height
including,
The club head includes a driver-type body,
The head CG height is 0 mm to 5.08 mm,
The head CG depth is 41 mm to 102 mm,
The head volume of the golf club head is 420 cc to 470 cc,
the head weight of the golf club head is 185 grams to 225 grams;
more than 15% of the mass of the club head is located in the rearmost 20% of the length of the club head;
more than 5% of the mass of the club head is located in the rearmost 10% of the length of the club head;
wherein the golf club head further comprises a crown angle, wherein the crown angle is less than 70 degrees as measured in a cross-sectional side view of the club head taken such that the crown angle penetrates the geometric center point of the striking surface; wherein the crown angle is less than 79 degrees when measured in a cross-sectional side view of the club head taken such that the crown angle passes through a point located 1.0 inches towards the head toe from the geometric center point of the striking face. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein greater than 20% of the mass of the club head is located at the rearmost 20% of the length of the club head. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein greater than 25% of the mass of the club head is located at the rearmost 20% of the length of the club head. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein greater than 10% of the mass of the club head is located at the rearmost 10% of the length of the club head. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein greater than 15% of the mass of the club head is located at the rearmost 10% of the length of the club head. According to claim 1,
and a weight structure positioned toward the head soul portion and the head rear portion of the head body, wherein the weight structure comprises a weight structure located between a 5 o'clock line and an 8 o'clock line of a clock grid. Including, the clock grid
12 o'clock line;
3 o'clock line;
4 o'clock line;
5 o'clock line;
8 o'clock line; and
Including the 9 o'clock line,
When the golf club head is in the address portion, from a bottom view of the golf club head, the 12 o'clock line is aligned with the striking face center point and is orthogonal to the forward intersection line between the loft plane and the ground plane;
the clock grid is centered along the 12 o'clock line at a midpoint between the front end of the head front portion and the rear end of the head rear portion;
The 3 o'clock line extends toward the head heel,
The nine o'clock line is a golf club head that extends toward the head toe portion. 7. The golf club head of claim 6, wherein said weight structure at least partially projects from an outer contour of said head sole portion. The golf club head of claim 1 , further comprising one or more thin regions positioned on the top of the head, wherein the one or more thin regions comprise a thickness of less than 0.020 inches. The golf club head of claim 1 , further comprising a weight positioned within 1.0 inch of a circumference of the head rear portion of the club head, the weight having a specific gravity greater than 10.0 and a mass greater than 10 grams. 10. The golf club head of claim 9, wherein the weight is positioned more than 1.5 inches from the center of gravity of the head. delete As a golf club head,
a head body including a head inner portion defined by a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head top portion, and a head sole portion;
striking face with a geometric center point; and
Head Center of Gravity with Head CG Depth and Head CG Height
including,
The club head includes a driver-type body,
The head CG height is 0 mm to 12.8 mm,
The head CG depth is 35 mm to 90 mm,
The head volume of the golf club head is 300 cc to 400 cc,
The head weight of the golf club head is 190 grams to 240 grams,
more than 15% of the mass of the club head is located in the rearmost 20% of the length of the club head;
more than 5% of the mass of the club head is located in the rearmost 10% of the length of the club head;
wherein the golf club head further comprises a crown angle, wherein the crown angle is less than 70 degrees as measured in a cross-sectional side view of the club head taken such that the crown angle penetrates the geometric center point of the striking surface; wherein the crown angle is less than 79 degrees when measured in a cross-sectional side view of the club head taken such that the crown angle passes through a point located 1.0 inches towards the head toe from the geometric center point of the striking face. 13. The golf club head of claim 12, wherein greater than 20% of the mass of the club head is located at the rearmost 20% of the length of the club head. 13. The golf club head of claim 12, wherein greater than 25% of the mass of the club head is located at the rearmost 20% of the length of the club head. 13. The golf club head of claim 12, wherein greater than 10% of the mass of the club head is located at the rearmost 10% of the length of the club head. 13. The golf club head of claim 12, wherein greater than 15% of the mass of the club head is located at the rearmost 10% of the length of the club head. 13. The method of claim 12,
and a weight structure positioned toward the head soul portion and the head rear portion of the head body, wherein the weight structure includes a weight structure center of gravity located between a 5 o'clock line and an 8 o'clock line of a clock grid, the the clock grid
12 o'clock line;
3 o'clock line;
4 o'clock line;
5 o'clock line;
8 o'clock line; and
Including the 9 o'clock line,
When the golf club head is in the address portion, from a bottom view of the golf club head, the 12 o'clock line portion is aligned with the striking plane center point and is orthogonal to the forward intersection line between the loft plane and the ground plane;
the clock grid is centered along the 12 o'clock line at a midpoint between the front end of the head front portion and the rear end of the head rear portion;
The 3 o'clock line extends toward the head heel,
The nine o'clock line is a golf club head that extends toward the head toe portion. 18. The golf club head of claim 17, wherein said weight structure at least partially projects from an outer contour of said head sole portion. 13. The golf club head of claim 12, further comprising one or more thin regions positioned on the top of the head, wherein the one or more thin regions comprise a thickness of less than 0.020 inches. 13. The golf club head of claim 12, further comprising a weight positioned within 1.0 inch of a circumference of the head rear portion of the club head.

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